Review: Recurve by Shannon Mayer

Recurve (The Elemental Series #1) by Shannon Mayer

My name is Larkspur, and I am an Elemental. My people use the power of the earth to sustain life and defy our enemies. I should be at my father's side as a royal princess. But as a half-breed, bastard child, that isn't going to happen. I've been accused of attacking the queen, my wicked stepmother, and my life is suddenly on the line. 

I have only two options left to me: banishment, or training to become one of the King's Elite Guards, an Ender. Option one will kill me. Option two is meant to break me, but is the only way to survive. Did I mention I have no power like the rest of the elementals, and my connection to the earth is worth next to nothing? Could things get any worse? Of course they can. Welcome to being an Elemental.

 

 NOTE: I was provided this ARC copy by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

 I've been a follower of Shannon Mayer since the first Rylee Adamson series. I thought I'd never met a woman as fearless and fierce as Rylee. Now, I'm having second thought after reading Recurve. I think Larkspur aka Lark is the new heroine to watch out for.

 Lark is a princess without a crown. She's an Elemental without power. She's serving the Kingdom as a Planter instead of a Royal, simply because she was deemed useless without her elemental gifts. Haunted by her mother & brother's deaths, Lark did her best to be liked and loved by her Father, the King. But after being accused of attacking Queen Cassava, Lark found herself training to become an Ender. That is the only way she'd be able to survive. Little did she know that her decision might just be the catalyst to her death.

 I had a super great time reading Lark and her adventures. Shannon Mayer is a brilliant and impressive author, she immediately sucked me in to her fantastic world. There's so much awesomeness wrapped up in the book. Plus, the names of the characters are really cool and unique. From Cactus, to Coal, Raven to Belladonna, from Granite to Ash, from Fern to Griffin, these amazing Elementals just keep getting better and better.

 Although this first book is a bit longer than usual, Recurve is a pleasure to read. It doesn't feel rushed. Rather, the whole story resonates with substance and every page matters. The ending left an ample room for a sequel. It isn't like those first books where you are really left hanging with those unanswered questions on your mind. Simply put, Recurve is very satisfying.

 The urban fantasy and paranormal elements are intricately woven into the story. That's what makes Recurve an engrossing and heart-pounding read. I guess, many readers would agree with me when I say, Lark has surpassed its predecessor, Rylee.

  

Shannon Mayer lives in the southwestern tip of Canada with her husband, dog, cats, horse, and cows.

When not writing she spends her time staring at immense amounts of rain, herding old people (similar to herding cats) and attempting to stay out of trouble. Especially that last is difficult for her.

Shannon Mayer gained bestselling status with her Rylee Adamson series.

 To learn more about Shannon and her books, go to www.shannonmayer.com To get a taste of The Rylee Adamson Series, check out the cinematic trailer!

Review: His Frozen Heart by Nancy Straight

Author Nancy Straight will be touring His Frozen Heart from November 3-14, 2014.

Join us for reviews and more!

Author: Nancy Straight

Publisher: Self-published

Age Group: NA

Genre: Romantic Suspense

For best friends, Candy and Libby, money is tight with hardly enough to cover their living expenses. When they are desperate for grocery money, the girls bet on their pool playing skills to add to their income.A simple wager on a quiet winter evening has devastating results, with a stalker determined to kill them both. With Libby in the hospital after a vicious attack, and Candy being pursued by the same stalker, she vows to find Libby's attacker.
What she finds is Dave, an old friend with a secret past filled with misfortune. Will Dave’s past provide the answer to all of Candy’s problems or will it become Candy’s worst nightmare realized?

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I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read the latest contemporary romance novel penned by Nancy Straight and I am proud to say that I’ve read the whole story twice. I just can’t seem to get enough of Candy Kane, (the character, not the sweet candy treat I usually get every Christmas) and her one-of-a-kind man, Dave. I have indulged myself in this story, even imagined myself as Candy, and made me fall in love all over again.

The premise follows BFFs Candy and Libby breaking in. Actually, it was Libby’s idea to go to her professor’s house (Mr. Brink) and tee-pee the ground (wrap the lawn with rolls of toilet paper) and sneak out. But their plans went awry when an “Intruder Alert” boomed across the lawn. Cut to graduation day, Candy couldn’t take a look at their superintendent’s face while getting her diploma because the house they actually TPed was the superintendent’s house and not Mr. Brinks’. It was actually a cute scene.

Then Candy’s parents had to move to New Mexico and had to leave the house to Candy & Libby who would shoulder the rent. The two struggled financially, to the point that they no longer had anything to eat. So they resorted to sharking pool in a nearby bar, where Candy was awarded chicken wings and Libby hustled off $400 from two brothers. However, things didn’t go well with the guys; the older brother warned Candy & Libby to leave immediately after his younger brother reluctantly and violently paid them. Things got down harsher and dirtier when midnight came, after Candy went to her work at a gas station. She almost died when stranger attacked and shot at her. Good thing she was inside a bulletproof booth, so her life was spared. Before the attacker left, he told her about getting back the $400 that she and Libby had sharked from his friend and he told her that he had gone to their house and made sure Libby won’t be talking soon.

Candy’s life shattered after this. Her bestfriend was in the hospital in a life-and-death situation, her house was broken into and the attacker was waiting for her to come home, but thanks to her elderly neighbor, she managed to escape death again. But the one surprise she didn’t count on was seeing Dave, who was once her high school classmate. Dave had grown into a beautiful man, far different from what he used to be. But one thing that really worried and puzzled her was Dave’s involvement with the thug inside her house and with the brothers that they have hustled off in a pool game. Dave had always been mysterious in high school, and five years later, he still mystified Candy to no end.

I won’t divulge the rest of the story, but one thing for sure, this is one of the best and wonderfully written books I’ve read this year. Candy’s & Libby’s emotional life stories made me cry, Dave’s childhood had me sobbing and the ending really kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a really sweet end that made me believe in happy ever after. Although there were still some questions left unanswered, I was left grinning from each-to-ear and had me dreaming about the characters at night. I seriously thought I was part of the book and I actually yearned to be in Candy’s shoes, except for those brush with death scenarios.

Nancy Straight has done it again! I’ve actually been a fan of hers from her first book, Missing Destiny, up to her Legacy series. Nancy Straight is a pure genius. She knows how to tickle a poor hopeless romantic like me. She describes the characters and the plot with vivid details. From the first page all the way to the last, I never got bored with her writing. The story was something that would stay on my mind for the next weeks or months to come. Those nights that I stayed up late just to be able to finish His Frozen Heart was all worth it.

Amazon 
Nook 
Kobo 
iTunes

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Author Nancy Straight Bio: 
I LOVE Starbucks’ White Mocha Latte and Mountain Dew, (but not together). I have a lead foot so I set cruise control when I drive, even in 25 MPH zones. I almost never win when I play Angry Birds, but have my 9 year old close, so he can clear the hard levels for me. I grew up on a farm and am opposed to eating fresh chicken (not opposed to meat - just opposed to any meat that was alive a few hours before lunch). I am a huge fan of the show, Big Bang Theory, on CBS. I share my life with two fantastic sons, three rotten dogs and a husband that I adore. 

Twitter: @NancyStraight
Blog: www.NancyStraight.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nancy-Straight/243616005687882
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4114202.Nancy_Straight

promo tour courtesy of WordSmith Publicity

Jumper & Friends

Title: Jumper & Friends
Author: Rebecca Scarberry
ebook
Published September 5th 2014

Jumper, the friendly talking red ball, goes on more great adventures with his owner, Tony Thompson and Bouncy Brianna, Emily’s red ball. They both experience new things like tubing, sailing, and Jumper has a wonderful Christmas.



I love this book, not because my own kids’ names were in the story, (yes, my sons Kyle & Kian are characters here!) but also because the story of Jumper and his friends brought so much joy to those who read it.

Jumper made new friends and enjoyed every minute they’re all together – festivals, sailboat rides, Halloween, Christmas, and yes, even when the thought his friend Bouncy disappeared because the magician “magicked” her, Jumper still had a lot of fun being a red ball.

My kids really enjoyed listening to me when I read them this book. They actually jumped up and down everytime their names were mentioned in the book. It was an awesome experience!

Thanks so much Miss Rebecca Scarberry for this wonderful book, for including my kids’ name and making them friends with Jumper, and bringing unlimited supply of smiles to everyone. I am personally touched by this book. Again, thank you!

Review: Kelly's Quest

Title: Kelly's Quest (NYC Love #2) 

Author: Jennifer Ann

Age: NA

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: October 14, 2014

Publisher: Treetop Fantasies

Goodreads

Shunned by her family back home, she followed her best friend to New York with aspirations to start over. Now broke and homeless with two guys vying for her affection, she realizes she made a colossal mistake. If she gives in to her desires, will she only be breaking the rule she set for herself, or will she also be proving she’s the disappointment her family sees her as?

Kelly Cavenaugh is a lot of things: intelligent, sexy, vivacious, and a great friend. But the one thing she’s determined to prove to herself and others is that she’s not promiscuous. So why do a spoiled rich boy with a dark past and a former Marine with a high-powered job have to come along and try to break her resolve?

Theo Roberts and Erik Murphy only have two things in common: they’re both dangerously gorgeous, and have their sights set on Kelly. Everyone tells her Erik isn’t someone she wants to get involved with, however, and Theo seems to be the total package. If Kelly allows herself to be with one of them, the choice should be easy. But it’s complicated, and she’ll find herself struggling to separate passion from reality while trying to establish her new life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1yq-VPM11U

My Review:
★★★★★

Kelly's Quest is the second book in the NYC Love series and I'm happy to have read the first one Adam's List a few months ago. The 2nd book is another "hard to put down" and I don't know how Jennifer Ann does it!

When Jewels and Adam Murphy decided to move to New York after the couple battled with their own dark secrets, Jewels' best friend Kelly Cavenaugh decided to come along with them to help them move. Then she met Theo, the hottie guy next door, and there's also Erik, Adam's equally handsome brother with a dark past. Just when they all thought she was just in NYC for a couple of days, she surprised all of them when she declared that she won't be coming back to their place in Wisconsin, because she got a one-way ticket to NYC and stay for good.

Things got a little tense between Kelly and her bestfriend when she thought Jewels was selling her out to ex-Marine hunk Theo for a one-night stand. And there's the issue of Adam's brother Erik whom everyone seemed to hate because he was obnoxious and playboy. She further made things worse when she decided to be Erik's room mate, much to the disappointment of everyone who advised her to stay away from him.

And then there's her problem at home. The main reason why she moved to New York in the first place. The one reputation that she tried to uphold, only got shattered because of sick rumors and one cheating bastard. When she decided to find herself in another place, she told herself she's gonna change. The more she tells herself to stop thinking about sex with random men, the more she was drawn to them.

I liked this second book. I actually had expected it to be good but after reading it, all I can say is wow! I wasn’t prepared for all the emotions it entailed. Kelly Cavenaugh may not have been the ideal girl I envisioned her from Adam's List, but in her quest for true love, I've grown to like her more. All the characters have their distinct personalities, which made this story much more appealing. Jennifer Ann's writing is great, I'm glad I was able to read her first book, and now this! I can tell she puts so much passion in her writing and I know she has a lot more surprises up on her sleeves. I'm so looking forward to her next book in the series.

About the Author:

When Jennifer Ann isn't writing heart wrenching romance novels with hot scenes or chasing her children around southern Minnesota, she either has her nose stuck in someone else's book, is curled up watching a movie, can be found taking pictures of other people (not in a creepy way), or is rocking out at a concert.

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJennif...
Pinterest: https://www.Pinterest.com/AuthorJenni...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5765367.Jen_Naumann
Jennifer also writes YA paranormal under Jen Naumann.

Race to the Sword of Siera

Title: Race to the Sword of Siera 

(The Last of the Fahlians Book 1) 

Author: KZ Riman 

ARC; Kindle edition; 334 pages 

Publication Date: September 10, 2014

THE BLURB: A beating heart, choosing nothing for its life but death . . . In the country of Athkandia in the year 2020, Katanya's life's mission has become to protect her blood from spilling so as to keep a demon sealed inside her body. Yet as she fails in her mission when she meets the handsome and vigorous Han, she is brought centuries back into the past, where she learns everything has been nothing but a lie. There never was a mission for her. In fact, she was the mission. In order to draw the Flame Fah Li—her elemental clan's power—out of her body, the two brothers born with her on the same birthing must race to the Sword of Siera, hidden deep in the Kouhan Mountains and use it to take her very life. This has left Katanya, Princess of the Flame Clan, in the middle, choosing between her demigod lover and her mortal lover, and then choosing for herself the best way to die.

Prepare to embark on a journey that will take you to a world beyond your wildest imagination. In this world, the Princess of the Flames, Katanya, is destined to die in order to save her clan. Her death lies on the hands of those she loves - her own brothers, her demigod lover, or her one true mortal love. It's only a matter of time before she succumbed to her unfortunate fate by the tip of Sword of Siera. Race to the Sword of Siera is full of exciting adventures & unique plots.

KZ Riman has outdone herself with her second masterpiece. The author was very imaginative as she distinctly described the setting, events & characters in the book. It's like I've stepped into a mysterious wardrobe and met Thor & his evil brother Loki, as they each gathered a fellowship of their own, to protect not a ring but a princess and to race to the mountains, only to slay the princess in the end. It was such an awesome journey that I'd be glad to undertake myself. A book like this deserves an instant 5 stars!  

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About the Author:
A home-body type of woman, KZ Riman spends most of her days in her room, reading, writing or watching television and movies. She loves good steaming novels but would only watch sitcoms and romantic comedies to 'chill'.

 KZ is a technical writer and researcher by day, creative writer and dreamer by night, a heavy sleeper by dawn. Visit KZ Riman's Amazon Page at: http://www.amazon.com/K.Z.-Riman/e/B00HC7WYIK/  

Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Title: Hopeless (Hopeless #1)
Author: Colleen Hoover
ebook, 327 pages

Sometimes discovering the truth can leave you more hopeless than believing the lies…
That’s what seventeen-year-old Sky realizes after she meets Dean Holder. A guy with a reputation that rivals her own and an uncanny ability to invoke feelings in her she’s never had before. He terrifies her and captivates her all in the span of just one encounter, and something about the way he makes her feel sparks buried memories from a past that she wishes could just stay buried.
Sky struggles to keep him at a distance knowing he’s nothing but trouble, but Holder insists on learning everything about her. After finally caving to his unwavering pursuit, Sky soon finds that Holder isn’t at all who he’s been claiming to be. When the secrets he’s been keeping are finally revealed, every single facet of Sky’s life will change forever.

This is the book that my hubby (for the very first time!) had insisted that I should read before I sleep. He said his co-worker had high praises for the story and that I would love to read this kind of drama-romance genre. I told him, I already got it on my Kindle, one week before he actually told me to buy this. And boy, was he intrigued with the book!

Hopeless is my first Colleen Hoover book. It was AMAZING! I cried myself to sleep after reading this. There was so much emotion going on with Sky and I was affected. And Dean got this strange pull that made me want to cry on his shoulders and comfort him. Sky and her constant running may be alluded to her past which she had completely forgotten about. Dean served as her anchor in the trying times. Six or Seven Marie, (gosh, I love both her names!) was a quirky personality, someone I would love to call my BFF. Too bad, there wasn’t much story about Leslie, but her demise was really a big impact to the whole gang.

Colleen Hoover is now one of my favorite authors. Hopeless made me breathless and sleepless in one night alone. Hopeless left me speechless after reading it. And Hopeless just made me a helpless romantic. Can’t wait to read Losing Hope!

The Peaceful Lion and the Nagging Crow

Title: The Peaceful Lion and the Nagging Crow
Author: Assaf Marcus
Illustrations by: Malgorzata Godziuk

For those of you who doesn't know, I have three kids - all boys - and being around them either gives me peace of mind or chaotic heartbeats. It's never easy raising a bunch of kids but I thought I could manage. However, when I chanced upon the book, The Peaceful Lion and the Nagging Crow, it seems like a whole new world was opened up for me.

Essentially, this is a story about a lion that had been quiet and living peacefully, while a rowdy crow did nothing but pester and make the lion angry. I was appalled by the behavior of the crow; he actually represented a bully constantly picking on someone else, testing their emotions. But what surprised me more was the calmness of the big lion amidst the chaos that the annoying crow brings. For how long did the lion keet up with the crow’s antics, that I won't reveal. The great thing about this book is the lesson that my kids were able to learn after reading and understanding Peaceful Lion's advice. Like I said, this book opened up a whole new world for me! Me and my little boys' world now becomes more peaceful and serene.

For those who want to teach their child how to deal with bullies or control their anger and accept gifts, this is the best book I'd highly recommend. I'm giving two thumbs up for Assaf Marcus for a distinctly effective way of spreading the message of peace and value of gift-giving among people.

Excerpts from Goodreads:

Teach your children the important skills of anger management and how to deal with bullies! Often child behavior problems are about kids struggling to manage their anger while attempting to find their inner peace. Oppositional behavior, disrespect, conflict and aggression can often be decreased by helping kids learn how to handle these issues better. This illustrated story will give you the tools to help your child with anger management through finding his inner peace.
This inspiring fable tells the story of two animals - “The Peaceful Lion And The Nagging Crow” in which the crow tries to annoy the lion in countless ways.
Will the crow manage to finally get the lion angry or upset? Will the crow give up? Can the lion manage to stay calm and peaceful or will he get angry at last?
When two such distinct animals as “The Peaceful Lion and The Nagging Crow” interact with each other, the result is a story with a lesson worthy of reading by all mankind. How to achieve inner peace and the realization that external forces can disrupt that peace or even forbid it are the two lessons which are cradled in this beautiful illustrated story by Assaf Marcus.

Round and Round

Title: Round and Round
Author: Jordan Morris 
Kindle edition; 276 pages

Everyone thinks high school is hell. Students in the town of Tartarus might actually be right.
Mythical mortals once lived at the whim of the gods. A hundred generations later, little has changed. Bastian Vandenberg’s fate as a fifteen year-old is still governed by godlike elders. He finds himself powerless over his feelings for Dora Peterson and Evie Smith. And his uncontrollable best friend Noah is going to get him stuck in detention (if not a youth detention centre.) Round and Round is the story of four students grasping at control of their destinies and trying to break free of their tragic flaws. They uncover a mystery that begins with the disappearance of the school’s most gifted pupils, and goes all the way up to the principal and the head of the school board.
At which point, four teenage mortals take up the task of bringing down the gods.

At first I thought I was going to read a book similar to Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series. Boy, I was so wrong. This isn't your any other ordinary book that re-tells a story. Round and Round is larger than life. This masterpiece by new author Jordan Morris is very unique in its own way.

In this book, I was able to meet the reincarnations of famous characters such as Evander - the hero of Arcadia, Eve, the temptress wife of Adam, Pandora of the mythical Pandora's box, and Noah, the man who built The Arc. Four different people whose fates never collided with each other. But close to a hundred thousand years later, these historical characters' lives have changed when they were reincarnated.

The reincarnated souls can be found at present time in Waratah High School. Bastian, or Sebastian Vanderberg, a simple guy who follows school rules and falls helplessly in love with Dora Peterson and Evie Smith. Ironically, Dora and Evie are bestfriends, but both have different personalities. Dora always has been curious about the things and people around her. While Evie does her best to persuade her friends and classmates to take things into action. Noah, Bastian's bestfriend, on the other hand, always has inventions and tricks up to his sleeves, causing everyone to throw blame at him in every possibility.

Waratah High School is the setting of the story where all things are happening. On the first day of the new school year alone, someone pushes a girl down the stairs. There's also the news about the disappearance of the school's most intelligent and talented students. It is up to Bastian, Noah, Evie and Dora to uncover the mystery surrounding the school, because they cannot trust or count on Principal Desmond Hay to cooperate. Will they ever find out who is behind all these?

Round and Round has been written so well that I found myself reading up until the wee hours of the morning. I liked the book a lot because it has a strong plot and quick pace. The character descriptions were detailed, the personalities were developed as the story progressed. The introduction of the storylines were carefully thought of and the revelation in the end was not rushed. That said, I highly to recommend this book not just to students but as well as to adults or parents who want to better understand their offsprings.

Kissing Another Grimaldi

Title: Kissing Another Grimaldi
Book 1 of Kissing the Bovaghnian Rogues Series.
Author: K.Z. Riman

I will never leave you alone.
One of the handsome Grimaldi twins falls into a car crash and dies the night he is to propose for marriage, leaving Kelsey Fontez pregnant with his son. Six years later, she turns up at the Grimaldi mansion’s door to introduce her son to his grandparents. The plan is simple: she brings her son to the life he deserves and lives with him in peace. 
Scott Grimaldi, the rogue and vigorous half of the Grimaldi twins, isn’t going to let it happen. He has sedated his desires for too long already, masking his intentions with his endless needs to taunt her as a teenage girl. How far is he willing to taunt Kelsey now just to have her in his bed when it means losing to his father’s ultimatum of his inheritance, caring for his brother’s son, and throwing away his life-long dreams?

I was really pleasantly surprised with Kissing Another Grimaldi. Lately, I have been reading a lot of YA Paranormal/Supernatural/Thriller books, that I hardly find time reading a sizzling romantic story. When I decided to read something that doesn't involve zombies, vampires and dragons, I picked out this book from my To-Be-Read collection and I was not disappointed.

What I liked about this book is that the characters are realistic and conventional. I easily got lost in time while reading Kelsey's narration and her torn feelings for Scott. What I really love about her is she thought of the possible consequences to a certain problem before making a decision. Although there were times when I had to question her judgment, in the end, she had proven her worth for her son and for everyone surrounding her. Also, there was something very alluring about Scott. He may be the typical twin with the bad boy attitude, swoon-worthy and hot and sexy, but he still got that personality that gets ladies intrigued. Together with Kelsey, they radiate so much sizzling passion that might as well burn them. I was too engrossed with their romantic trysts that I lost track of my time.

I honestly liked the author, KZ Riman's writing style which is smart and full of promise. I find the story zips along quickly and easily. Her debut novel deserves to be called a gem. Actually, as soon as I finished reading Kissing Another Grimaldi, I wanted to start all over again. (This may be the side effect of the enhancement pill mentioned in the book? Ha-ha!) I look forward to reading more of KZ's work! Highly recommended!

Check out this book trailer from KZ Riman's masterpiece:

Circus of Lost Souls

Title: Circus of Lost Souls

Authors: Riley J Ford and Rebecca Hamilton
Kindle Edition, 244 pages
Published December 22nd 2013

Cirque du Lune is killing off teenagers, but it's all part of the act.
Or is it?
As the body count rises with each performance, one girl at this infamous theater-based summer finds herself contemplating what's real and what's not.
What if it's not just a horror show, but a live snuff performance? What if the murders . . . are real?

I never wanted to sleep again after I have read this engagingly haunting book by Riley J. Ford and Rebecca Hamilton. Circus of Lost Souls is probably one of the most frightening but surprisingly great thrillers I have ever read.

Seriously, I was wide awake reading the book and I, for the life of me, cannot fathom why I was able to stay up all night reading one gore scene to another and not get a nightmare out of it. Cirque Du Lune workers, especially Ian, really crept me out. Myra, thanks to her ever inquisitive mind, knew at once that something was wrong during the first act. I was really intrigued, that a lot of scenarios ran through my head, only to get the shock of my life when I finally discovered what the circus was all about. And when almost all of the teens in the story were "done with" I thought, I could never go to sleep without knowing what will happen next.

Let me tell you this, no book had ever held my attention or kept me up all night, except this one. I was really ecstatic a year ago when I learned that Riley & Rebecca teamed up to write a novel, but I didn't have any idea what it was all about. And when I finally got the chance to read their masterpiece, I was floored. I thought both authors' writing style were excellent and superb. They knew how to give the readers the sense of fright and the chills of creepiness, leaving them breathless and anticipating. Congrats, Riley & Rebecca, you really scared the devil out of me.

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Follow these lovely authors:

Riley J. Ford via Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads

Rebecca Hamilton via Facebook | Twitter | Website 

Wraithsong

Title: Wraithsong 
Desirable Creatures Series, Book I
Author: E.J. Squires
Kindle edition, 328 pages
Published March 5th 2014

Seventeen-year-old Sonia is in her senior year when she realizes that she is even more different from her friends than she thought. One day there’s an incident with her and another student, proving she has the same ability to control people as her mom. Though she has had a few similar experiences before, this incident verifies exactly how different she is.
Things really begin to change when Sonia meets a senior named Anthony. Soon she finds herself consumed by him—which is shocking—because she’s just not one to fall in love. Anthony is handsome and mysterious, but that’s not what drives Sonia crazy. While other guys usually fight for her attention, Anthony doesn’t even give her the time of day. And even stranger yet, her ability to control people doesn’t work on him. Little does Sonia know that he keeps a deep secret too, and that that very secret holds the answer to who she really is.
With only a few weeks left of school, horrible things happen: Three of Sonia’s cousins, living in another state, are killed, and Sonia’s mom vanishes without a trace.
Anthony tells Sonia that her mom has been taken to an invisible island called Wraithsong, and that his mother is the abductor. To save her mom’s life, Sonia is forced to accept Anthony’s help and travels with him to find the island, but when Anthony’s mother discovers they are working against her, she sends someone to kill Anthony and capture Sonia.

I have read E.J. Squires debut novel, Winter Solstice Winter before, and I immensely enjoyed it. When I learned about her new book, I had to make sure that I get a copy of this. Once again, I fell in love with her newest masterpiece, Wraithsong - Desirable Creatures.

This story is about Sonia who has the power to control people with the use of her Huldra flair. With just a spit, or wet kiss, or anything that involves the saliva, she can easily control people, compel them to do her bidding and succumb to her wishes. Her mom, Hedda forbids her to do such thing before she reaches 18, but when she meets Anthony, her desire for the guy intensifies, she almost becomes out of control. She tests herself by leaving him a kiss on the cheek. But the problem was, Anthony seems to deflect her flair. Was there something wrong with her?

Soon, Sonia and Anthony find themselves entangled in a world of deceit, betrayal, fantasy and reality. They come to know about themselves, about being Darkálfars and Lightálfars. Their love is tested and judged. In the end, Sonia is torn in a decision and she isn't even sure she will be able to fulfill her destiny.

Wraithsong is an exciting Norse/Viking paranormal romance set in the modern times. The story nicely captures the overwhelming mythology of Huldras from Norway. This is actually my first time to read a story about Huldras. I admit, I am not an expert in Norse myths and legends, but I really found them interesting and highly engaging. Thanks to author EJ Squires, I was able to learn more about these desirable creatures. Every scene/chapter moves the story forward, unlike the others I have read which suddenly takes you back in time without premise. Wraithsong seamlessly blends romance and fantasy plus mythology with decadence and taste, I practically devoured it.

E.J. Squires has again impressed me with her knowledge with Norse mythology. I have given a 5 star rating to Winter Solstice Winter a year ago. Now, she seems to be on a roll. Here's another 5 star rating for a well-crafted and very original story that captured my heart.

Jumper Bounces Back

Jumper Bounces Back (Vol 2)
by Rebecca Scarberry
ebook, Paperback, 68 pages
Published February 13th 2014

Jumper’s adventures continue after his escape from Little Tykes Toys & Bikes. He’s a big friendly red beach ball that children love. Join in the fun as Jumper tells you all about his summer escapades. With the help of Mr. Wind, he meets many new people and the fun is non-stop. This is the second book in the Jumper series and it has a bonus coloring page.

When I first read Jumper to my two boys, they were all smiles as they imagined Jumper and his adventures and wish to go to Carnival Castle. Soon every night, I read the book to them before going to sleep. Not long after, Rebecca Scarberry wrote the sequel, Jumper Bounces Back and me and my kids couldn't have been more happy! This time, Jumper found happiness with his new owner, Emily and had adventures in Fair Ground and met a new friend, Teddy.

After reading this second book to them, my kids told me to get the author's attention and ask her to turn the book into a TV Kiddie series, just like Spongebob and Blue's Clues! My kids really loved the story and are even more excited when they learned that there's another book coming soon! Yipeee!

We're all excited to read the next adventures that will be coming Jumper's way.

The Price of Creation

Title: The Price of Creation

Author: Lance Conrad
Kindle Edition; 193 pages
Published Jan 2014

The Historian chances upon Surac, a land where people's destinies are defined by powerful pendants they have from birth, called Stones. Those whose Stones give them useful skills call themselves Creators, and isolate themselves from all others with a wall that splits the entire continent. When Aric, a Creator blacksmith, has a son born with a Stone that marks him for violence and destruction, they find themselves in danger from those they called their friends.
When the boy, Sadavir, is ultimately banished, he discovers secrets far darker than the villagers' petty prejudices. On the far side of the wall, he learns the origin of the Stones' magic and a war that dates back centuries. As he uncovers the true power locked in the Stones, he must find a way to unite ancient enemies in order to save his family. To stop a genocide, Sadavir must face his own destiny of violence.

The Price of Creation is a very engaging read. There are not a lot of books that had kept me reading until the end. This one by Lance Conrad is an exception. The story kept me interested from start to finish. The musings of the historian kept me on my toes, so to speak.

This enchanting tale begins with the Historian who traveled far and wide and soon found himself standing in-front of a great wall. He entered the land of Surac and discovered a whole new world. Surac was a place protected by an impenetrable wall and inside this wall lived a group of people whose lives were guided by the Stones. While their predetermination are characterized by powerful pendants they have from conception, these Stones also provided them with the identity of being known as Creators. Interestingly enough, when one is born with an opaque Stone, he is considered a Destroyer, one who steals and kills Creators.

The Historian, barefoot and all, was not initially welcomed by the Surac people. But a kind-hearted man named Aric, a blacksmith took him under his wing, but the rest of the townspeople still considered him an outsider. He was given the name Amar and he lived with Aric and his pregnant wife, Lauriel. When Lauriel gave birth to a son with a black stone, the villagers condemned Aric's family and called the newborn child, Destroyer. Sadavir, the boy who was considered a Destroyer, possessed both great & peculiar qualities, which made him the constant subject of bullying, mockery and hatred as he grew up. A seemingly growing rock and a cage were his constant companions; he didn't have any friends at all. The time came when he was forced to flee his home, along with the Historian and move to the other side of the wall, to be with the Destroyers and never to go back to Surac, ever again. Soon, Sadavir & the Historian discovered the truth about Destroyers and Creators, a nagging truth that dispelled all that he had ever believed in.

The characters of Sadavir and the historian/storyteller himself are unique and quite complex. Each personality holds fundamental secrets. As the book unfolds, I couldn't help but appreciate the sheer depth of the characters and the complexities the author has woven into the story. There's a lesson to be learned in every chapter, something a reader would be able to relate to. This is definitely worth reading to the end.

Confessions of a Zombie Slayer: A Daisy Daniels Novel

Title: Confessions of a Zombie Slayer: A Daisy Daniels Novel (Part 1)
Author: A.M. Zuniga
Kindle Edition, 171 pages
Published January 29th 2014

Daisy Daniels is no stranger to terror. Her mother’s brutal murder and her job as a horror movie actress have taught her to be prepared for anything. But there’s no preparing for the horrific zombie outbreak that’s wiped out cities and towns overnight and stolen her family and friends.
She and several other survivors flee to government Area 51, hoping to find safety. Along the way, she flirts with romance when she is torn between two handsome strangers.
Area 51 doesn't turn out to be the haven Daisy expected. More danger lurks, along with the answer to a haunting mystery. Will she survive the truth and find love along the way? Or will the living dead destroy her, along with the rest of civilization?

I know what you're gonna say. This is just another one of those zombie apocalypse story with a sappy ending. I admit, at first, I actually didn't care much if the most of the characters I read are zombies, corpses, undead. Zombies have been dominating my TV screens lately and so, reading about them was just piece of cake. Or so I thought.

Confessions of a Zombie Slayer is a fast-moving action-filled zombie-invasion story with a hint of romance and comedy. Yes, only a hint of a love story, just the way I like it. This is unlike those I used to read which were more gory and bloody. Believe it or not, I devoured this book an entire night, amid the howling of the dogs nearby.. A night filled with zombies and now I am begging for more.

Daisy Daniels isn't your typical actress turned zombie-slayer slash heroine. There's definitely more to her than meets the eye. Shane, the dashing doctor, had something up to his sleeves and Jenny, she's the kind of BFF that you would love to keep by your side forever, away from zombies and all that jazz.

A,M Zuniga swept me up from Chapter one up to the Epilogue. There are still a lot of questions left unanswered and I am already looking forward to finding more about Daisy and the future that she is running away from. Take it from me. This story is brimming with a lot of good stuffs that would leave you utterly amazed!

Masked Encounters

Title: Masked Encounters

(Intoxicating Passion #1)
Author: Felicia Tatum
ebook, 43 pages

Published October 25th 2013

Synopsis:

Korah Daniels has been through a lot in her nineteen years. Broken hearts, abusive relationships, and horrid dates have caused her to doubt love. When her friend talks her into attending the local frat house’s Halloween party, will she find the one person who can change her outlook on life?
Dane Davidson is the worst kind of playboy. The ultimate frat boy, drinking and ending up with a different girl every night. When his frat house throws a masked Halloween party, a certain angel catches his attention and may just turn his life upside down. Masked Encounters is the first in a five part novelette series. 

Masked Encounters is an exciting and sexy short story by Felicia Tatum! She had impressed me before with her first book, The White Aura and now with her newest offering; I couldn't help but agree with the other readers/reviewers. This novella is intriguing, captivating and really intimate. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

Korah’s character is as mysterious as Dane’s. In this book, we get to meet Korah who had built an entire wall around herself because she got hurt from a previous relationship. Despite this wall, her best-friend Leela still set her up with blind dates, which turned disastrous in the end. And one night, during a masked Halloween party, Korah let out her inhibitions, wore a sexy angelic dress and captured the eye of Dane. Unbeknownst to her, Dane had seen her before and had unnerved him with her uneasiness and aloofness to the guys. And when the barefoot Korah was tended by a gorgeous masked man, she retaliated and ended up doing the unthinkable. Whatever it was, I’m not telling…

This book is really engaging. No boring scenes, no dull dialogues, just pure blissful reading! Thanks so much, Felicia for trusting me with your book. Gonna read the next one now!

P.S. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: 5 stars *****

The Conquered Shore

Title: The Conquered Shore (Lodestone #5) 

Author: Mark Whiteway 
Kindle edition; 1324 pages
Published Nov 26, 2013

Following a momentous journey across space, two groups of Helvenans are locked in a struggle for survival on the strange, virgin planet they have named Kelanni. 
Their long journey over, the exiles from the planet Helvena must now carve out a new existence. But the stain of war still blights the two factions - the hubbers with their strict caste system, now enforced by the new, fearsome keltar in their flying cloaks, and the free community of rimmers. On an alien world beset by unknown dangers and complex life forms they must find a way to come together...or be destroyed. 
"This is the fifth book in Mark Whiteway's beautifully crafted Lodestone series".

The Conquered Shore is the fifth book from the Lodestone series. Author Mark Whiteway blew me away! He is absolutely genius. I actually read the first book (The Sea of Storms) before reading this one to better understand the characters and get familiar with the scenes. I was then transported to another dimension where I discovered a world with three suns shining up above, two of which rise from the west, and the other one is stationary. I discovered the world of Kelanni, the world where non humans exist. Kelanni people did not originate on this planet but they have travelled from a faraway world called Helvena.

Truth is, I have read a bunch of Sci-fi/thrillers before and the last one that really impressed me was the legendary Robert A. Heinlein's Stranger in a Strange Land. Now, this! Yes, I am comparing the author Mark Whiteway to one of my favorite sci-fi genius because his works are at par with Heinlein. I am utterly astonished with these men because of their wild imagination and creative juices. I am jealous of their talent of creating a futuristic world, filled interplanetary devices and different races. I wish I could create worlds like them.

After the first book, which I actually couldn't put down, I found myself liking The Conquered Shore more. I felt like I was getting involved emotionally with Keris and the quirky hu-man, Alexander McCann. The author made the Kelanni native Keris more relatable as a human while Alex McCann was as always a delight to read. I also loved the other characters in the book, like Lokk, Aevan, Zemira, even the keltars, Glaisne, Torile and Ash.

Usually, when I read a book, it's either I forget about the characters and events right away, or I maintain them inside my head and dream about them. When these characters invade my sleep, it can only mean one thing: the book was highly effective and very engaging. And I felt this after dreaming about Alex and Keris. I would want to go with them in seeking out the Guardians of the Forest. In short, there must be a Book Six to watch out for and I can't wait to read it!

If you're in the mood to read some sci-fi, i highly suggest you read this one. Perfect for sci-fi fans like me. If you want to read a modern-day Robert A. Heinlein masterpiece, read Mark Whiteway's Lodestone series and be blown away!

****

About the Author
Mark Whiteway 
website: http://markwhiteway.weebly.com/author-bio.html
twitter: https://twitter.com/mwhiteway1
genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy


Mark Whiteway (1959- ) lives in rural West Sussex, England, near the former home of H G Wells. The Lodestone series of novels is built around the concept of negative matter-an extension of Einstein's Theory of General Relativity.

Under His Protection

Title: Under His Protection
Author: Stacy Von Haegert
Kindle; 202 pages
published november 2013

What really happened to the two young princes of York, who were held prisoner in the tower of London by their ambitious uncle following the death of their father, King Edward of York? Some think one son escaped and was later executed by King Henry VII when he returned to claim his rightful throne. But not before he sired a child. In, Under His Protection, the first in a new trilogy, Stacy Von Haegert artfully combines history, action, humor, and sizzling passion to provide a theory for one of England's greatest mysteries. The bloodline continues...

LONDON 1838, Present day...Title-hungry matrons of the upper class throw their daughters in Alexander's path. But the Duke of Ravenswood has no desire to give up his rakish, gaming lifestyle to get hitched. When the Kingston family from New Orleans enters London, however, Alex quickly finds himself unwittingly entangled. With her spirited personality and innocent aversion to all things proper. Greyland Kingston completely knocks him off his game.

The gossip fans flutter when Queen Victoria asks Greyland and her eldest brother, Perkin, to dance the scandalous Viennese Waltz at the Royal ball. Who is this family? How do they know the Queen? Why do they bear such a strong resemblence to the late King of York? Trouble ensues in the form of jealous women, ambitious men, and a vengeful Irish clan. Alexander quickly finds that having Greyland for his own will come at a steep price. He must risk everything to keep her protected.

Under His Protection is a regency novel about two lovestruck characters; one came from the America, who had zest and carefree attitude in life, while the other one was a brash young lord who was reputed to be a ladies man. Their love story began with Lord Alexander challenging a newcomer to a duel but got more than he bargained for when the young lad’s sister came to his defense instead. There was something mysterious and intriguing about the new family who arrived in London, which got everyone’s tongue wagging and eyes rolling. Something that got a man riled up and determined to have his way against them.

When I read the first chapter of Under His Protection, I was entranced. It’s like I was visiting a historical place at another era that is so different from my own timeline. Once I got past the second chapter, it made me crave for more.

Lady Greyland Kingston was really a lovable personality; she managed to make me smile because of her naiveté and casual outlook in life. It is obvious that she came from a noble line from the America who was quite liberated, compared to the conservative people of London.  She’s like a wanton bride, not very typical of a lady, but very entertaining, nonetheless. No wonder the lads and men vied for her attention every now and then. I don’t blame Lord Alex Hamilton of Ravenswood for being so protective of her. He was every bit a hero and warrior in my eyes. I liked the vulnerability and sensitivity he showed when he had fallen in love with Lady Kingston.

I also loved the other men in the novel, like Perkin & Edward, both gorgeous men and dependable brothers and of course, there was Thomas, the ever gracious friend and comrade. Bella, Thomas betrothed, was a friend that I myself would like to keep, and Annabel, a girl I would like to take as my own. And there’s Socrates and Malikite, two creatures who played pivotal roles in their masters’ lives.

I really find Regency novels like Under His Protection very engaging, seductive and irresistible. The characters were easy to love and relate to, even though they belonged to the era where the women’s ball gowns were made of layers of corsets and petticoats while men were clad with greatcoats, cloak and broad-brimmed hats.

Reading Regency novels has always been one of the most delicious treats in literature, in my opinion. I always get delighted reading unusual terms enthused by the characters. Like for example in this novel, I encountered the word "ton". I thought at first, it was a misspelled word for town, but after I did some research, I learned that the author actually referred it to a set of people who possess the characteristics of being rich, fashionable and well mannered. Three characteristics that must all be possessed by a group. Oh, how very ingénue of me, if I might say so.

I really had a wonderful time reading this debut from the talented Stacy Von Haegert. Her writing was quite exceptional and superb. She kept me intrigued and entertained all throughout, with her character’s vivid descriptions and believable personalities. I couldn't believe this is her maiden novel! I thought she can be the next Lisa Kleypas or Johanna Lindsey and I couldn't be more proud! I highly recommend this masterpiece to everyone who loves to read Regency love stories.

The Dragonslayer and His Sorceress

Volume 2 Dragonslayer and His Sorceress

Part 1 – Coming Storm
Carison Destine, Paladin of the Realm, has agreed to help an old friend prepare the defenses of the Governor’s Palace in what was once the Fourth Kingdom.

Along with his lover, the beautiful and deadly sorceress Raven, they begin their task, knowing it is only a matter of time before the deposed King Lemore tries to take his throne back by force.

An attack on the palace by a Yellowscale dragon leaves Carison’s friend poisoned and dying and Carison must find help in the most unlikely of places.

And all the while there are rumors from the lips of the dragons themselves that something is coming, something that Carison cannot prepare for…

Part 2 – Hidden Dangers
Dreams of impending terrors wake Carison Destine from his sleep. As Paladin of the Realm, he has faced untold dangers and always walked away from them, although not always without losing something of himself.

The dragons are anxiously awaiting something. Something that will be worse than anything Carison and the Sorceress Raven have ever faced before. They must find out what it is, and stop it if they can.

If they don’t die trying.

Part 3 – There is Death
On their way to stop the tyrant Butcher Lemore from raising a dragon army, Paladin Carison Destine, the sorceress Raven, and their friend Captain Orson Malidra are set upon by a group of Bluescale dragons.

In the middle of the fight that they are bound to lose, they are saved by a friend. A friend who gives his life for them.

His death tips Raven over an emotional cliff, unleashing powers and dangers she had tried so hard to bury within herself. She changes before Carison’s eyes. And then leaves.

Looking for help in the next town, what they find is rumors that Raven has slaughtered a nearby village. Carison knows it can’t be true. But he also knows he has to go to her, to try to bring her back to herself.

But at the same time, Butcher Lemore is plotting and scheming to regain his throne.

And kill anyone who stands in his way.

Dilemma's of a Dragonslayer book trailer

I got the chance to read this amazing series and my kids also loved this. I guess everyone is aware that I have always been fascinated with dragons and medieval fantasy book. Dilemma's of a Dragonslayer did not disappoint!

Dilemma's of a Dragonslayer is an 8-volume series about a dragon slayer named Carison and the dilemmas, challenges and battles he had to face in order to restore a fallen kingdom, slay the fiercest dragon, Diamondscale and find happiness in the arms of the one he truly loved. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. One of the best I've read so far!

Stay tuned for my book reviews on my upcoming posts. In the meantime, check out this beautiful book trailer from Ruth Ford Elward's Dilemma's of a Dragonslayer.

Poems Vol.2

Title: Poems (Volume 2)
Author: Lee Gliddon
Published Oct 2013

Volume 2 of another selection of my poems that have been pulled out of my emotional well. A mixture of tone. A story to read, a journey to discover, a moment to share.

Yet again, another incredibly beautiful and sensual love poems written by Lee Gliddon. His latest book contains some of the best (love) poems I have ever read. The stories behind his poetry plucked at my heartstrings.

If you are a man trying to make yourself known to the one you loves from afar, by putting your shoes on the other man's feet, A Strangers Love is perfect for you. If you want to walk down memory lane, A Moment By The Lake is what you need. My One And Only talks about the one who had been saved from the black beach of despair, and never letting go again. These were my three favorites from Gliddon's lovely poems.

The others were equally well written, like The Stray Cat - a perfect personification of someone who longs to be nestled in the arms of a mother and a place to call home. I also loved Death I Am and A Tear from a Dry Well, these are kind of intense and strong.

Overall, I'd say that Gliddon's poems aren't made of cotton candy words, but are written with heart, mind and soul. Simply beautiful! A must read for all poetry lovers!