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popthebutterfly
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: This Time
Author: Azaaa Davis
Book Series: Nadira Holden, Demon Hunter Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: African American lead!
Publication Date: October 1, 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (some mature scenes, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: Camp-Davis Productions
Pages: 250
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Legendary demon hunter Nadira Holden paid the ultimate price to end the war between demons and hunters.
Resurrected in present-day New York, many years have passed, everyone moved on without her, and the demons she once battled have made peace with humans. Nadira no longer has a purpose here. Dying again might be her ticket back to that “next life” she experienced.
Except humans are disappearing, and Nadira’s father is one of the missing. Feeling a strong obligation to find him before sorting out her own fate, she begins investigating.
She won't rest in peace unless she can prove the demons are behind the disappearances. But Nadira is running out of time. The darkness within her is causing her to lose her humanity while the rest of mankind is on the verge of enslavement to the demons they now worship.
Fight with Nadira in a new urban fantasy series that combines monster-slaying action, family drama, and simmering romance. Experience why not even death can stop her.
Fans of Vampire Hunter Anita Blake, Succubus Georgina Kincaid, Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Vampire Death Dealer Selene are possessed and eagerly awaiting the next book by fantasy author Azaaa Davis.
Review: For the most part I really liked this book. It has definite City of Bones vibes and the writing is really well done. The book is fast paced and short, so you can pick it up when you have time and easily get done with it in a day. The plot is intriguing and it kept me interested all the way through.
However, I did feel like the characters didn’t really connect with me. I liked the main character and I like that the book was own voice and the cover has a strong African American woman on it, but I didn’t really like any of the other characters. I also felt like some of the points in the novel were a bit repetitive and unbelievable.
Verdict: A great fantasy novel!
Book: This Time
Author: Azaaa Davis
Book Series: Nadira Holden, Demon Hunter Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: African American lead!
Publication Date: October 1, 2018
Genre: Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (some mature scenes, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: Camp-Davis Productions
Pages: 250
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Legendary demon hunter Nadira Holden paid the ultimate price to end the war between demons and hunters.
Resurrected in present-day New York, many years have passed, everyone moved on without her, and the demons she once battled have made peace with humans. Nadira no longer has a purpose here. Dying again might be her ticket back to that “next life” she experienced.
Except humans are disappearing, and Nadira’s father is one of the missing. Feeling a strong obligation to find him before sorting out her own fate, she begins investigating.
She won't rest in peace unless she can prove the demons are behind the disappearances. But Nadira is running out of time. The darkness within her is causing her to lose her humanity while the rest of mankind is on the verge of enslavement to the demons they now worship.
Fight with Nadira in a new urban fantasy series that combines monster-slaying action, family drama, and simmering romance. Experience why not even death can stop her.
Fans of Vampire Hunter Anita Blake, Succubus Georgina Kincaid, Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Vampire Death Dealer Selene are possessed and eagerly awaiting the next book by fantasy author Azaaa Davis.
Review: For the most part I really liked this book. It has definite City of Bones vibes and the writing is really well done. The book is fast paced and short, so you can pick it up when you have time and easily get done with it in a day. The plot is intriguing and it kept me interested all the way through.
However, I did feel like the characters didn’t really connect with me. I liked the main character and I like that the book was own voice and the cover has a strong African American woman on it, but I didn’t really like any of the other characters. I also felt like some of the points in the novel were a bit repetitive and unbelievable.
Verdict: A great fantasy novel!
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Disclaimer: I received this book from the publishing company. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Daughter of Chaos
Author: Sarah Rees Brennan
Book Series: The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: trans male, openly LGBT couplings mentioned
Publication Date: December 26, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (some violence and gore, some mature content like sex and sex activities mentioned)
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pages: 368
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Half-witch, half-mortal sixteen-year-old Sabrina Spellman has made her choice: She's embraced her dark side and her witchy roots. Now her power is growing daily... but will it come at too high a price?
Sabrina Spellman has just made the hardest decision of her life: She's leaving behind her beloved friends at Baxter High. Now it's time to follow the path of night and find her way among the witches and warlocks at the Academy of Unseen Arts.
Sabrina has always been good at the school thing, but now she has a whole new world to navigate. Her power is growing daily, but it comes with a high price. She must always remember her new allegiances and the cost they have on her friends... and on herself.
And then there's her new classmates. Prudence, Dorcas, and Agatha are friends, kind of, but can Sabrina trust them? And what about Nick Scratch? He's as charming as ever, but will his feelings for Sabrina last?
Based on the hit Netflix show, this original YA novel tells an all-new, original story about Sabrina.
Review: I love the show Sabrina with a passion… maybe an obsession? I have so much love for the current show, respect for the comics, and admiration for the previous 90s show. The prequel book perfectly embodies all three and this one maintained that embodiment! I love that these books are apart of the in-between times, the times that are glossed over and the development not seen as deep as the show can provide to an audience within 40 minutes. The character development in this book, especially with Harvey and Roz’s relationship which kinda popped up suddenly in the show, is so great! Nick Scratch and Prudence also got developed and trust me, I’m not the biggest Pru fan but I’m totally feeling for her now that I’ve read this book. The book was also well written and had fun nods to the current season playing on Netflix.
The only thing I will say about the book is that it’s a little slow paced in the beginning as we go back to the early days post breakup with Sabrina and Harvey, but it quickly picks up and mayhem ensues sure enough! Also, if you’re a fan of the show it does take a bit getting used to Theo being called Suzie in the books but it also heavily develops him as well before the transition!
Verdict: A must read for the Sabrina lover in all of us.
Book: Daughter of Chaos
Author: Sarah Rees Brennan
Book Series: The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: trans male, openly LGBT couplings mentioned
Publication Date: December 26, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (some violence and gore, some mature content like sex and sex activities mentioned)
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pages: 368
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Half-witch, half-mortal sixteen-year-old Sabrina Spellman has made her choice: She's embraced her dark side and her witchy roots. Now her power is growing daily... but will it come at too high a price?
Sabrina Spellman has just made the hardest decision of her life: She's leaving behind her beloved friends at Baxter High. Now it's time to follow the path of night and find her way among the witches and warlocks at the Academy of Unseen Arts.
Sabrina has always been good at the school thing, but now she has a whole new world to navigate. Her power is growing daily, but it comes with a high price. She must always remember her new allegiances and the cost they have on her friends... and on herself.
And then there's her new classmates. Prudence, Dorcas, and Agatha are friends, kind of, but can Sabrina trust them? And what about Nick Scratch? He's as charming as ever, but will his feelings for Sabrina last?
Based on the hit Netflix show, this original YA novel tells an all-new, original story about Sabrina.
Review: I love the show Sabrina with a passion… maybe an obsession? I have so much love for the current show, respect for the comics, and admiration for the previous 90s show. The prequel book perfectly embodies all three and this one maintained that embodiment! I love that these books are apart of the in-between times, the times that are glossed over and the development not seen as deep as the show can provide to an audience within 40 minutes. The character development in this book, especially with Harvey and Roz’s relationship which kinda popped up suddenly in the show, is so great! Nick Scratch and Prudence also got developed and trust me, I’m not the biggest Pru fan but I’m totally feeling for her now that I’ve read this book. The book was also well written and had fun nods to the current season playing on Netflix.
The only thing I will say about the book is that it’s a little slow paced in the beginning as we go back to the early days post breakup with Sabrina and Harvey, but it quickly picks up and mayhem ensues sure enough! Also, if you’re a fan of the show it does take a bit getting used to Theo being called Suzie in the books but it also heavily develops him as well before the transition!
Verdict: A must read for the Sabrina lover in all of us.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: How To Build A Heart
Author: Maria Padian
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Puerto Rican family and main character!
Publication Date: January 28, 2020
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 14+ (some rock throwing, slight gore, a gun, death, and healing)
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 352
Amazon Link
Synopsis: One young woman’s journey to find her place in the world as the carefully separated strands of her life — family, money, school, and love — begin to overlap and tangle.
All sixteen-year-old Izzy Crawford wants is to feel like she really belongs somewhere. Her father, a marine, died in Iraq six years ago, and Izzy’s moved to a new town nearly every year since, far from the help of her extended family in North Carolina and Puerto Rico. When Izzy’s hardworking mom moves their small family to Virginia, all her dreams start clicking into place. She likes her new school—even if Izzy is careful to keep her scholarship-student status hidden from her well-to-do classmates and her new athletic and popular boyfriend. And best of all: Izzy’s family has been selected by Habitat for Humanity to build and move into a brand-new house. Izzy is this close to the community and permanence she’s been searching for, until all the secret pieces of her life begin to collide.
How to Build a Heart is the story of Izzy’s journey to find her place in the world and her discovery that the choices we make and the people we love ultimately define us and bring us home.
Review: Oh my God what can I say about a book that carved its way into my heart to deceptively that I found myself thinking about it at 1am this morning? This book was an absolute delight and I was so happy to read it! The book was well written with all the feels and the characters were very well developed. The world building was wonderful as well and the pacing is on key. This book will be one of those that will make you want to pick up a hammer and go help people like Izzy and Roz.
The only issue I had with the book is that sometimes the chapters will end with Izzy having to make a choice or something will happen, then in the next chapter it will skip forward to a different time and in that time ahead she will recount what happened after the event in the previous chapter. It’s a lot less complicated than what I’m making it out to be, but it was kinda weird to get into. However, I did like that approach to storytelling and found it very genuine to how some people think.
Verdict: A book that will build a house in your heart.
Book: How To Build A Heart
Author: Maria Padian
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Puerto Rican family and main character!
Publication Date: January 28, 2020
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 14+ (some rock throwing, slight gore, a gun, death, and healing)
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 352
Amazon Link
Synopsis: One young woman’s journey to find her place in the world as the carefully separated strands of her life — family, money, school, and love — begin to overlap and tangle.
All sixteen-year-old Izzy Crawford wants is to feel like she really belongs somewhere. Her father, a marine, died in Iraq six years ago, and Izzy’s moved to a new town nearly every year since, far from the help of her extended family in North Carolina and Puerto Rico. When Izzy’s hardworking mom moves their small family to Virginia, all her dreams start clicking into place. She likes her new school—even if Izzy is careful to keep her scholarship-student status hidden from her well-to-do classmates and her new athletic and popular boyfriend. And best of all: Izzy’s family has been selected by Habitat for Humanity to build and move into a brand-new house. Izzy is this close to the community and permanence she’s been searching for, until all the secret pieces of her life begin to collide.
How to Build a Heart is the story of Izzy’s journey to find her place in the world and her discovery that the choices we make and the people we love ultimately define us and bring us home.
Review: Oh my God what can I say about a book that carved its way into my heart to deceptively that I found myself thinking about it at 1am this morning? This book was an absolute delight and I was so happy to read it! The book was well written with all the feels and the characters were very well developed. The world building was wonderful as well and the pacing is on key. This book will be one of those that will make you want to pick up a hammer and go help people like Izzy and Roz.
The only issue I had with the book is that sometimes the chapters will end with Izzy having to make a choice or something will happen, then in the next chapter it will skip forward to a different time and in that time ahead she will recount what happened after the event in the previous chapter. It’s a lot less complicated than what I’m making it out to be, but it was kinda weird to get into. However, I did like that approach to storytelling and found it very genuine to how some people think.
Verdict: A book that will build a house in your heart.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Storm of the East
Author: Joanna Hathaway
Book Series: Glass Alliance Book 2
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: February 11, 2020
Publisher: TorTeen
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, some gore, politics, and some love)
Synopsis: Battles, revolution, and romance collide in Joanna Hathaway's stunning, World Wars-inspired sequel to Dark of the West
Part war drama, part romance, Storm from the East is the second novel in Joanna Hathaway’s immersive, upmarket YA fantasy series that will appeal to readers of Sabaa Tahir, Marie Rutkoski, and Evelyn Skye.
War has begun, and the days of Athan’s and Aurelia’s secret, summer romance feel a world away. Led by Athan’s father, the revolutionary Safire have launched a secret assault upon the last royal kingdom in the South, hoping to depose the king and seize a powerful foothold on the continent. Athan proves a star pilot among their ranks, struggling to justify the violence his family has unleashed as he fights his way to the capital—where, unbeknownst to him, Aurelia has lived since the war’s onset. Determined to save the kingdom Athan has been ordered to destroy, she partners with a local journalist to inflame anti-Safire sentiment, all while learning this conflict might be far darker and more complex than she ever imagined.
When the two reunite at last, Athan longing to shake the nightmare of combat and Aurelia reeling from the discovery of a long-buried family truth come to light, they’ll find the shadow of war stretches well beyond the battlefield. Each of them longs to rekindle the love they once shared . . . but each has a secret they’re desperate to hide.
Review: This was a great sequel to the first book! The book has a lot of political intrique and romance still. Still has some WW2 and Romeo and Juliet vibes as well. The characters are much more developed in this one and the plot was very well continued from the previous book to.this one.
This book is very politically centered though so if you don't like that then it might not be your type of book. The book is also still slow paced.
Verdict: I love the politics!
Book: Storm of the East
Author: Joanna Hathaway
Book Series: Glass Alliance Book 2
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: February 11, 2020
Publisher: TorTeen
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, some gore, politics, and some love)
Synopsis: Battles, revolution, and romance collide in Joanna Hathaway's stunning, World Wars-inspired sequel to Dark of the West
Part war drama, part romance, Storm from the East is the second novel in Joanna Hathaway’s immersive, upmarket YA fantasy series that will appeal to readers of Sabaa Tahir, Marie Rutkoski, and Evelyn Skye.
War has begun, and the days of Athan’s and Aurelia’s secret, summer romance feel a world away. Led by Athan’s father, the revolutionary Safire have launched a secret assault upon the last royal kingdom in the South, hoping to depose the king and seize a powerful foothold on the continent. Athan proves a star pilot among their ranks, struggling to justify the violence his family has unleashed as he fights his way to the capital—where, unbeknownst to him, Aurelia has lived since the war’s onset. Determined to save the kingdom Athan has been ordered to destroy, she partners with a local journalist to inflame anti-Safire sentiment, all while learning this conflict might be far darker and more complex than she ever imagined.
When the two reunite at last, Athan longing to shake the nightmare of combat and Aurelia reeling from the discovery of a long-buried family truth come to light, they’ll find the shadow of war stretches well beyond the battlefield. Each of them longs to rekindle the love they once shared . . . but each has a secret they’re desperate to hide.
Review: This was a great sequel to the first book! The book has a lot of political intrique and romance still. Still has some WW2 and Romeo and Juliet vibes as well. The characters are much more developed in this one and the plot was very well continued from the previous book to.this one.
This book is very politically centered though so if you don't like that then it might not be your type of book. The book is also still slow paced.
Verdict: I love the politics!
Disclaimer: I got this book in a @beaconbookbox box. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Dark of the West
Author: Joanna Hathaway
Book Series: Glass Alliance Book 1
Rating: 4/4
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
Publisher: TorTeen
Recommended Age: 16+ (gore, violence, some sexual content)
Synopsis: Aurelia Isendare is a princess of a small kingdom in the North, raised in privilege but shielded from politics as her brother prepares to step up to the throne. Halfway around the world, Athan Dakar, the youngest son of a ruthless general, is a fighter pilot longing for a life away from the front lines. When Athan’s mother is shot and killed, his father is convinced it’s the work of his old rival, the Queen of Etania—Aurelia’s mother. Determined to avenge his wife’s murder, he devises a plot to overthrow the Queen, a plot which sends Athan undercover to Etania to gain intel from her children.
Athan’s mission becomes complicated when he finds himself falling for the girl he’s been tasked with spying upon. Aurelia feels the same attraction, all the while desperately seeking to stop the war threatening to break between the Southern territory and the old Northern kingdoms that control it—a war in which Athan’s father is determined to play a role. As diplomatic ties manage to just barely hold, the two teens struggle to remain loyal to their families and each other as they learn that war is not as black and white as they’ve been raised to believe.
Review: This book was beautiful from start to finish! This is definitely a romance lovers book but also a great book for those who like WW2 era books. It was never really confirmed if this is WW2 themed but it has that definite feel about it. The book is absolutely lovely and amazing well plotted.
My only issues were that the book is very slow in my opinion and that the writing makes reading this book a bit confusing. It was just very poetic writing that didn't vibe well with my brain.
Verdict: A wonderfully well done tale.
Book: Dark of the West
Author: Joanna Hathaway
Book Series: Glass Alliance Book 1
Rating: 4/4
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
Publisher: TorTeen
Recommended Age: 16+ (gore, violence, some sexual content)
Synopsis: Aurelia Isendare is a princess of a small kingdom in the North, raised in privilege but shielded from politics as her brother prepares to step up to the throne. Halfway around the world, Athan Dakar, the youngest son of a ruthless general, is a fighter pilot longing for a life away from the front lines. When Athan’s mother is shot and killed, his father is convinced it’s the work of his old rival, the Queen of Etania—Aurelia’s mother. Determined to avenge his wife’s murder, he devises a plot to overthrow the Queen, a plot which sends Athan undercover to Etania to gain intel from her children.
Athan’s mission becomes complicated when he finds himself falling for the girl he’s been tasked with spying upon. Aurelia feels the same attraction, all the while desperately seeking to stop the war threatening to break between the Southern territory and the old Northern kingdoms that control it—a war in which Athan’s father is determined to play a role. As diplomatic ties manage to just barely hold, the two teens struggle to remain loyal to their families and each other as they learn that war is not as black and white as they’ve been raised to believe.
Review: This book was beautiful from start to finish! This is definitely a romance lovers book but also a great book for those who like WW2 era books. It was never really confirmed if this is WW2 themed but it has that definite feel about it. The book is absolutely lovely and amazing well plotted.
My only issues were that the book is very slow in my opinion and that the writing makes reading this book a bit confusing. It was just very poetic writing that didn't vibe well with my brain.
Verdict: A wonderfully well done tale.
Disclaimer: I received a netgalley e-arc from the publisher and then pre-ordered my own copy. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: All the Stars and Teeth
Author: Adalyn Grace
Book Series: All the Stars and Teeth Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Publisher: Imprint
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, gore, some sexual content)
Synopsis: She will reign.
As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer—the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it’s never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy’s dangerous soul magic.
When her demonstration goes awry, Amora is forced to flee. She strikes a deal with Bastian, a mysterious pirate: he’ll help her prove she’s fit to rule, if she’ll help him reclaim his stolen magic.
But sailing the kingdom holds more wonder—and more peril—than Amora anticipated. A destructive new magic is on the rise, and if Amora is to conquer it, she’ll need to face legendary monsters, cross paths with vengeful mermaids, and deal with a stow-away she never expected… or risk the fate of Visidia and lose the crown forever.
I am the right choice. The only choice. And I will protect my kingdom.
Review: This book was absolutely amazing! It fulfilled all my pirate wants and dreams! The characters were absolutely amazing, the world building was fantastic and I can't get over how well the magic system was built. It was also very well written and I very much enjoyed this book!
My only issue is that at one point towards the end it felt like it could have ended well for this book since I suspect there will be more but then it continued for another 20 pages. A little discombobulating for me but I won't complain about the extra pages!
Verdict: A well done pirate adventure!
Book: All the Stars and Teeth
Author: Adalyn Grace
Book Series: All the Stars and Teeth Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Publisher: Imprint
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, gore, some sexual content)
Synopsis: She will reign.
As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer—the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it’s never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy’s dangerous soul magic.
When her demonstration goes awry, Amora is forced to flee. She strikes a deal with Bastian, a mysterious pirate: he’ll help her prove she’s fit to rule, if she’ll help him reclaim his stolen magic.
But sailing the kingdom holds more wonder—and more peril—than Amora anticipated. A destructive new magic is on the rise, and if Amora is to conquer it, she’ll need to face legendary monsters, cross paths with vengeful mermaids, and deal with a stow-away she never expected… or risk the fate of Visidia and lose the crown forever.
I am the right choice. The only choice. And I will protect my kingdom.
Review: This book was absolutely amazing! It fulfilled all my pirate wants and dreams! The characters were absolutely amazing, the world building was fantastic and I can't get over how well the magic system was built. It was also very well written and I very much enjoyed this book!
My only issue is that at one point towards the end it felt like it could have ended well for this book since I suspect there will be more but then it continued for another 20 pages. A little discombobulating for me but I won't complain about the extra pages!
Verdict: A well done pirate adventure!
Disclaimer: I received an ebook copy of this from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Beyond the Moon
Author: Catherine Taylor
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: June 25, 2019
Genre: Romance
Recommended Age: 18+ (sex, mature love scenes, violence, war, what is it good for, absolutely nothing, and language)
Publisher: The Cameo Press LTD
Pages: 496
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In 1916 1st Lieutenant Robert Lovett is a patient at Coldbrook Hall military hospital in Sussex, England. A gifted artist, he’s been wounded fighting in the Great War. Shell shocked and suffering from hysterical blindness he can no longer see his own face, let alone paint, and life seems increasingly hopeless.
A century later in 2017, medical student Louisa Casson has just lost her beloved grandmother – her only family. Heartbroken, she drowns her sorrows in alcohol on the South Downs cliffs – only to fall accidentally part-way down. Doctors fear she may have attempted suicide, and Louisa finds herself involuntarily admitted to Coldbrook Hall – now a psychiatric hospital, an unfriendly and chaotic place.
Then one day, while secretly exploring the old Victorian hospital’s ruined, abandoned wing, Louisa hears a voice calling for help, and stumbles across a dark, old-fashioned hospital room. Inside, lying on the floor, is a mysterious, sightless young man, who tells her he was hurt at the Battle of the Somme, a WW1 battle a century ago. And that his name is Lieutenant Robert Lovett…
Two people, two battles: one against the invading Germans on the battlefields of 1916 France, the other against a substandard, uncaring mental health facility in modern-day England. Two journeys begun a century apart, but somehow destined to coincide - and become one desperate struggle to be together.
Part WW1 historical fiction, part timeslip love story - and at the same time a meditation on the themes of war, mental illness, identity and art - Beyond The Moon sweeps the reader on an unforgettable journey through time. An intelligent read, perfect for book clubs.
For fans of Diana Gabaldon, Amy Harmon, Beatriz Williams, Kate Quinn, Kristin Hannah, Kate Morton, Susanna Kearsley and Paullina Simons.
*NB This novel contains graphic descriptions of war violence and injuries, as well as profanity and mild sex.
Review: This book is very addictive. I loved the time travel aspect (I’m a sucker for those) and I loved how the book was written. The characters were very developed and the world building was amazing. The book is a little like Outlander, Louisa finds a portal to the past and meets a guy she falls for. The romance is super cute and steamy in some places and the depictions of the events are very realistic.
However, I did feel like it was a bit slower than what I normally like, but it fits a romance book perfectly.
Verdict: Highly recommend for romance lovers who like historical romance with twists.
Book: Beyond the Moon
Author: Catherine Taylor
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: June 25, 2019
Genre: Romance
Recommended Age: 18+ (sex, mature love scenes, violence, war, what is it good for, absolutely nothing, and language)
Publisher: The Cameo Press LTD
Pages: 496
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In 1916 1st Lieutenant Robert Lovett is a patient at Coldbrook Hall military hospital in Sussex, England. A gifted artist, he’s been wounded fighting in the Great War. Shell shocked and suffering from hysterical blindness he can no longer see his own face, let alone paint, and life seems increasingly hopeless.
A century later in 2017, medical student Louisa Casson has just lost her beloved grandmother – her only family. Heartbroken, she drowns her sorrows in alcohol on the South Downs cliffs – only to fall accidentally part-way down. Doctors fear she may have attempted suicide, and Louisa finds herself involuntarily admitted to Coldbrook Hall – now a psychiatric hospital, an unfriendly and chaotic place.
Then one day, while secretly exploring the old Victorian hospital’s ruined, abandoned wing, Louisa hears a voice calling for help, and stumbles across a dark, old-fashioned hospital room. Inside, lying on the floor, is a mysterious, sightless young man, who tells her he was hurt at the Battle of the Somme, a WW1 battle a century ago. And that his name is Lieutenant Robert Lovett…
Two people, two battles: one against the invading Germans on the battlefields of 1916 France, the other against a substandard, uncaring mental health facility in modern-day England. Two journeys begun a century apart, but somehow destined to coincide - and become one desperate struggle to be together.
Part WW1 historical fiction, part timeslip love story - and at the same time a meditation on the themes of war, mental illness, identity and art - Beyond The Moon sweeps the reader on an unforgettable journey through time. An intelligent read, perfect for book clubs.
For fans of Diana Gabaldon, Amy Harmon, Beatriz Williams, Kate Quinn, Kristin Hannah, Kate Morton, Susanna Kearsley and Paullina Simons.
*NB This novel contains graphic descriptions of war violence and injuries, as well as profanity and mild sex.
Review: This book is very addictive. I loved the time travel aspect (I’m a sucker for those) and I loved how the book was written. The characters were very developed and the world building was amazing. The book is a little like Outlander, Louisa finds a portal to the past and meets a guy she falls for. The romance is super cute and steamy in some places and the depictions of the events are very realistic.
However, I did feel like it was a bit slower than what I normally like, but it fits a romance book perfectly.
Verdict: Highly recommend for romance lovers who like historical romance with twists.
Disclaimer: I received an e-arc of this book from the publisher and then bought my own copy. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Twice Dead
Author: Caitlin Seal
Book Series: The Necromancer's Song Book 1
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: September 18, 2018
Publisher: Charlesbridge Teen
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, violence, gore, death)
Synopsis: Naya, the daughter of a sea merchant captain, nervously undertakes her first solo trading mission in the necromancer-friendly country bordering her homeland of Talmir. Unfortunately, she never even makes it to the meeting. She's struck down in the streets of Ceramor. Murdered.
But death is not the end for Naya. She awakens to realize she's become an abomination--a wraith, a ghostly creature bound by runes to the bones of her former corpse. She's been resurrected in order to become a spy for her country. Reluctantly, she assumes the face and persona of a servant girl named Blue.
She never intended to become embroiled in political plots, kidnapping, and murder. Or to fall in love with the young man and former necromancer she is destined to betray.
Review: Overall, this was a good book. It's your typical ya fantasy but with a dead twist. I liked their inclusion of wraiths, as I haven't seen that before in books and because I just fought one in my monster of the week campaign, so it's nice to see a nice wraith. I liked the plot and the characters were also fun.
However, I did wish that the book had more world building and detail. I also felt that the book heavily leaned into the romance aspect and not so much the action bits. Also, I do have a concern about the use of a wraith. Lore wise wraiths are basically revenge spirits from once alive evil beings, so it confused me greatly to see a sweet character be a wraith but I think more lore in this book would have combatted that. Also, they don't normally retain their bodies from what I know of them, that's more of a wight in lore sense.
Verdict: A decent start to a series but needs some work.
Book: Twice Dead
Author: Caitlin Seal
Book Series: The Necromancer's Song Book 1
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: September 18, 2018
Publisher: Charlesbridge Teen
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, violence, gore, death)
Synopsis: Naya, the daughter of a sea merchant captain, nervously undertakes her first solo trading mission in the necromancer-friendly country bordering her homeland of Talmir. Unfortunately, she never even makes it to the meeting. She's struck down in the streets of Ceramor. Murdered.
But death is not the end for Naya. She awakens to realize she's become an abomination--a wraith, a ghostly creature bound by runes to the bones of her former corpse. She's been resurrected in order to become a spy for her country. Reluctantly, she assumes the face and persona of a servant girl named Blue.
She never intended to become embroiled in political plots, kidnapping, and murder. Or to fall in love with the young man and former necromancer she is destined to betray.
Review: Overall, this was a good book. It's your typical ya fantasy but with a dead twist. I liked their inclusion of wraiths, as I haven't seen that before in books and because I just fought one in my monster of the week campaign, so it's nice to see a nice wraith. I liked the plot and the characters were also fun.
However, I did wish that the book had more world building and detail. I also felt that the book heavily leaned into the romance aspect and not so much the action bits. Also, I do have a concern about the use of a wraith. Lore wise wraiths are basically revenge spirits from once alive evil beings, so it confused me greatly to see a sweet character be a wraith but I think more lore in this book would have combatted that. Also, they don't normally retain their bodies from what I know of them, that's more of a wight in lore sense.
Verdict: A decent start to a series but needs some work.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher! Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Third to Die
Author: Allison Brennan
Book Series: Mobile Response Team Book 1
Rating: 4.5/5
Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Publisher: MIRA
Recommended Age: 17+ (violence, gore, some adult moments)
Synopsis: An edgy female police detective…An ambitious FBI special agent. Together they are at the heart of the ticking-clock investigation for a psychopathic serial killer. The bond they forge in this crucible sets the stage for high-stakes suspense.
Detective Kara Quinn, on leave from the LAPD, is on an early morning jog in her hometown of Liberty Lake when she comes upon the body of a young nurse. The manner of death shows a pattern of highly controlled rage. Meanwhile in DC, FBI special agent Mathias Costa is staffing his newly minted Mobile Response Team. Word reaches Matt that the Liberty Lake murder fits the profile of the compulsive Triple Killer. It will be the first case for the MRT. This time they have a chance to stop this zealous if elusive killer before he strikes again. But only if they can figure out who he is and where he is hiding before he disappears for another three years. The stakes are higher than ever before, because if they fail, one of their own will be next…
Review: I really enjoyed this book. It was full of action and the writing was well done. The plot kept me entertained from start to finish and the characters were very well developed.
However, I did feel like the book was very fast paced and the book didn't wrap up everything, which is a little annoying for me but leaves room for another book.
Verdict: Overall, a well done suspense novel!
Book: The Third to Die
Author: Allison Brennan
Book Series: Mobile Response Team Book 1
Rating: 4.5/5
Publication Date: February 4, 2020
Publisher: MIRA
Recommended Age: 17+ (violence, gore, some adult moments)
Synopsis: An edgy female police detective…An ambitious FBI special agent. Together they are at the heart of the ticking-clock investigation for a psychopathic serial killer. The bond they forge in this crucible sets the stage for high-stakes suspense.
Detective Kara Quinn, on leave from the LAPD, is on an early morning jog in her hometown of Liberty Lake when she comes upon the body of a young nurse. The manner of death shows a pattern of highly controlled rage. Meanwhile in DC, FBI special agent Mathias Costa is staffing his newly minted Mobile Response Team. Word reaches Matt that the Liberty Lake murder fits the profile of the compulsive Triple Killer. It will be the first case for the MRT. This time they have a chance to stop this zealous if elusive killer before he strikes again. But only if they can figure out who he is and where he is hiding before he disappears for another three years. The stakes are higher than ever before, because if they fail, one of their own will be next…
Review: I really enjoyed this book. It was full of action and the writing was well done. The plot kept me entertained from start to finish and the characters were very well developed.
However, I did feel like the book was very fast paced and the book didn't wrap up everything, which is a little annoying for me but leaves room for another book.
Verdict: Overall, a well done suspense novel!
Disclaimer: I bought my own copy of this book.
Book: The Flame Queen
Author: Dex Munro
Book Series: The Legends of Peradon Book 1
Rating: 1/5
Publication Date: April 30, 2017
Publisher: Munro Tales
Recommended Age: dnf can't complete
Synopsis: One woman will take back her freedom. And rise.
Violetta will never forget that day. Guilt shadows her every step as she prepares to take her father’s throne. Sadly, he has other ideas. Violetta must marry or forfeit her royal birthright, but all she wants is to be free, to no longer relive the tragic events of her past. If only she can learn to love again, to put the past behind her and begin anew.
Enter Emperor Ryore Frost. Handsome. Suave. And her sworn enemy. As Violetta feels new emotions stirring within, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to this mysterious man. Could she risk marrying her mortal enemy if it meant a chance at securing her freedom?
Four Magical Realms.
One troubled Princess.
One love-starved Emperor.
And a trio of assassins, lying in wait.
Review: I really liked what this book could have been but for me I just couldn't get into it. The book has promise and a lot of people seem to like it, it has an amazing premise and setting, but the exposition was messy and I just couldn't get into it. I had to DNF at about 100 pages in.
Verdict: DNF but a lot of people seem to like it so maybe it's my cold that's making this a difficult read.
Book: The Flame Queen
Author: Dex Munro
Book Series: The Legends of Peradon Book 1
Rating: 1/5
Publication Date: April 30, 2017
Publisher: Munro Tales
Recommended Age: dnf can't complete
Synopsis: One woman will take back her freedom. And rise.
Violetta will never forget that day. Guilt shadows her every step as she prepares to take her father’s throne. Sadly, he has other ideas. Violetta must marry or forfeit her royal birthright, but all she wants is to be free, to no longer relive the tragic events of her past. If only she can learn to love again, to put the past behind her and begin anew.
Enter Emperor Ryore Frost. Handsome. Suave. And her sworn enemy. As Violetta feels new emotions stirring within, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to this mysterious man. Could she risk marrying her mortal enemy if it meant a chance at securing her freedom?
Four Magical Realms.
One troubled Princess.
One love-starved Emperor.
And a trio of assassins, lying in wait.
Review: I really liked what this book could have been but for me I just couldn't get into it. The book has promise and a lot of people seem to like it, it has an amazing premise and setting, but the exposition was messy and I just couldn't get into it. I had to DNF at about 100 pages in.
Verdict: DNF but a lot of people seem to like it so maybe it's my cold that's making this a difficult read.