A Nighttime of Forever by Matthew S. Cox

This is a vampire book that won’t make you sick of vampire books.  The main character, Sarah, has the perfect amount of attitude and innocence.  She never got on my nerves.  I rooted for her throughout.  I cringed for her.  I cheered for her.

The storyline is fresh.  The vampires fit with the usual vampire stereotype, but the original plotline makes up for that. 

I look forward to continuing the series and seeing what new ideas come along for this young vampire.

SECOND-CHANCE DOGS

I received a copy of SECOND-CHANCE DOGS: TRUE STORIES OF THE DOGS WE RESCUE AND THE DOGS WHO RESCUE US from Revell.  It is edited by Callie Smith Grant.

This is a heart-warming collection of short stories about dogs.  These are dogs who have lived troubled lives, but have been rescued by loving humans.  In turn, the dogs have rescued those humans by enriching their loves through never-ending love.  More times than I can count, I had tears in my eyes.  Many of the stories reminded me of my uncle.  He’s rescued multiple dogs and has cherished each one.  I’m passing this book along to him now that I’ve enjoyed it.

You won’t be able to stop after reading one of these stories.  Their raw honesty and beauty will suck you in.  This is a must for dog lovers.

As a side note, the stories are written by well-known authors.  It was a treat to see essays in here by some of my favorite Christian authors. 

FOREST BEYOND THE EARTH by Matthew S. Cox

This is a post-apocalyptic book, but not the kind you would expect.  Wisp lives with her father in a world that is ruined, but healing.  I loved reading about things we take for granted that this couple thrives on for everyday life.  For example, they use license plates as protective shin guards.  (Something I liked was that the author describes the items and the reader gets to realize what they are.  Some books have the main character confused, but the author outright says what the item is.)

The adventure continues a bit mainstream – there’s plenty of adventure and characterizations to make you engaged, but its like a normal post-apocalyptic story.  Then, the ending comes, and what a twist that delivers! 

Don’t miss out on this book if you’re looking for an exciting read.

THE MENAGERIE OF JENKINS BAILEY by Matthew S. Cox

This is the type of book I can see being my favorite in junior high and high school.  There’s a creepy, old mansion.  I’m still all about creepy, old mansions.  There’s a bit of a ghost story and that leads into some great magic and mythological creatures.  The book was altogether awesome, and the characters are spot-on. 

I love how versatile this author is.  He can write for middle grade, young adult, and adults, and he nails it every time.

Crack Yourself Up

I received a copy of CRACK YOURSELF UP: JOKES FOR KIDS by Sandy Silverthorne from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  I was excited for this book because I know my son will love it.  He laughs at everything, and even though he’s still a little young for some of the jokes, he’ll be able to grow into them. 

I opened the package, got the book out, and my husband took it to “glance over.”  He spent the next hour reading through the entire book.  Most of them he read out loud to me while I was trying to get housework done.  It certainly made things move along faster!  Later on, I heard him sharing some of the jokes with his friends. 

Some are riddles, which adds a nice mix to the assortment of jokes.  They are all appropriate for kids.  I thought that was great.  In the past, I had joke books for kids that threw in a couple “adult” jokes.  They were probably for the parent, but that shouldn’t be in a book just for kids.

This makes an excellent coffee table book, or addition to the home library.  It would also be perfect as a gift.

Shift Your Thinking for Success

I received a copy of SHIFT YOUR THINKING FOR SUCCESS: 77 ways to win at work and in life BY Dean Del Sesto from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  I really looked forward to this book.  I’ve had some struggles recently – I lost my job, I’m unable to find another one in my field, I’m at a job that I don’t enjoy, my husband lost his job, we have a baby…  I’m a published author and struggling to get my books in the hands of readers.  I was hoping this book would change my life around.

The book just didn’t do it for me.  I do a lot of these things already – setting goals, sticking to one’s values.  While they do make me feel good, I am already doing them.  I was looking for something new, that I wasn’t aware of before.  Maybe I put too much hope in this book.

I didn’t hate it and there were a lot of topics that I’m sure will help others.  I will be trying to sleep more and make more time for family.  Currently I work 8-5/6 at the temp job and then come home to work on my writing.  I go to bed and that’s it for the day.  I’ll also work on not putting out a know-it-all vibe.  That can easily happen and it does put people off.

I’m giving the book 4 stars because it does contain a lot of wisdom.  It makes you think about your life.  It just wasn’t the ground-breaking solution I think I was expecting.

UNDER A RED DELTA SUN by Sinmisola Ogunyinka

This is an exquisite young adult  story about wounded children fighting to survive.  They’re in the wrong place at the wrong time.  Despite the challenges life throws at them, they stay true to themselves.  Action after action after action…this is a fast paced read that doesn’t always give you a chance to breathe. 

This is one of the most suspenseful YA books that I’ve read in quite a while.

The story takes place in Nigeria.  I found that aspect fascinating, as I haven’t read other books that take place in Nigeria. 

QUANTUM by Roxanne Lambie

This is an adventure novel for young adults, or just for the young at heart.  I loved  the whole time/space idea where she lands in Ireland.  It’s awesome that she’s learning how to fly.  You don’t read about that in young adult books for girls.  I’d like to think reading this book will inspire more girls to become pilots. 

Check this out when you can and if you’re looking for a gift for a teenage girl, this is one to grab.

SOPHIE’S LIGHT by Matthew S. Cox

It started off as a good children’s story.  The little girl is tormented by a troll while living in a magica forest.  She decides to set off on her own, and the reader can marvel at her strength and endurance, while also seeing her vulnerable side.  The characterizations are excellent.

Then you get to the end, and wow.  I won’t spoil the twist, but if you’re like me, you’ll have to reread the book with the twist in mind.

That twist takes it from a good story to the kind you want to recommend to everyone.

THE AFFECTED by James McNally

If you’re looking for a horror novel that will leave you chilled and up at night, look no further than THE AFFECTED.  If the cover doesn’t get you, then the writing will.  The idea behind it is creepy, to say the least.  I loved the idea of Demy and writing about a character who is deaf.  You don’t see Deaf characters a lot in literature.

What’s that sound?

You’ll have to read to find out.

NINE CANDLES OF DEEPEST BLACK by Matthew S. Cox

This is such a perfect YA read.  There’s a teen who is misunderstood by her parents, something every teen can relate to.  There’s magic being done, and ghosts, and a family drama that haunts out main character.  Expect action around every turn and the end leaves you flipping pages to see what happens.

I would have been all over this book back in high school.  A few friends of mine thought they were witches, and the things the girls in the story do reminded me so much of them.  This would have easily been their favorite book.

WHISPERS OF DEATH by Ronald Kihali

This is a beautiful book of poetry.  I was swept up and often times, I had to pause and reread because a line was just so elegant.  Its been a long time since I read poetry (basically since college).  I found this engaging and chilling.  So many times, a line gave me the chills.

5 stars!  This will open your eyes to new feelings and really get you to think.

THE COFFIN MAKER by Breeann Allison

This is such a deliciously unusual book.  It grabs you from the first sentence.  I loved the mystery.  I loved Jesse!  It has the vibe of a classic Gothic, but with humor. 

If you’re looking for a dark, tantalizing tale, grab this book up.

THE THEORY OF HAPPILY EVER AFTER

I received a copy of THE THEORY OF HAPPILY EVER AFTER by Kristin Billerbeck from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  This is chick lit at its finest.  If you’re feeling sad or just need to unwind, pick up a copy.

This book was hysterical.  I was sad that a new job kept me from reading more than one chapter at a top.  From start to finish, you’ll become absorbed in the characters.  The writing is fluid and catchy; it really sucks you in.  The romance is a perfect supplement to the humor.

In a nutshell, Maggie is depressed after a break up, so her friends put her on a cruise.  I’ve never been a on a cruise, but I found the details well described and it made a wonderful setting for some quirky antics.

A solid four stars from me.  Some of the witty banter felt forced, otherwise it would have been 5 stars.

Begin Again

I received a copy of BEGIN AGAIN: THE BRAVE PRACTICE OF RELEASING HURT AND RECEIVING REST by Leeana Tankersley from Revell Reads in exchange for an honest review.  The foreword is by Shauna Niequist.

I chose this book to review because I’m in the process of “beginning again.”  I lost my job, and with it, what I believed to be my career.  I felt miserable.  Hopeless.  Lost.  It has taken me a long time to get over the hurt of it, and now I’m seeking to pick myself up by my bootstraps. 

I found this book to be beautiful.  In many ways, it opened my eyes and gave me a fresh hope.  The author speaks to us from a place of hurt in her own laugh.  In that sense, it makes the reader trust her.  She has lived what you have lived, even if it is in a slightly different way. 

This is a religious book, and the religion is heavy.  I’m not sure I would recommend it to those who have a different faith, although many of the examples apply to any of us.

REIGN OF IMMORTALS by Marin Landis

My favorite part about this book was the dialogue.  It sets the stage for an awesome epic fantasy.  While the dialect is unique, it isn’t stilted. 

This is a fast-paced fantasy.  At 317 pages, it might look long, but I was surprised at how fast I devoured it.  The world building draws you in.  If you’re looking for an epic fantasy, look no further.

FAST-PITCH LOVE by Clay Cormany

This book was awesome in a number of ways.

For one thing, it involves sports, and I’m not a sports person.  I enjoy reading outside of my comfort zone.  You could really feel  how much the author loves sports, as it comes across in Jace.

For another thing, the main character is a boy.  You don’t see that a lot in young adult books.  Usually the stories are about a girl, with maybe a few chapters given to the boy.

Last, this book is fun.  It doesn’t involve dark topics, so it is safe to read with parents!  The innocence and romance feel natural.  This is an excellent book, and when my son is older, I’ll get a copy for him.

TAINTED WATERS by Lucretia Stanhope

This is a fast-paced fantasy with romance and adventure.  Everything flows well and Alice is easy to relate to.  I felt for her, not fully feeling like she belongs.  Her emotions are clear.  She feels very real, and I liked that no one was fully good or fully evil.  That just felt so realistic, and reminded me of our own world.

Definitely a fantasy to check out.  It’s the type of book you can get through in a day or two, which means you can lose yourself in the action.

Coach Wooden's Forgotten Teams

I received a copy of COACH WOODEN’S FORGOTTEN TEAMS: STORIES AND LESSONS FROM JOHN WOODEN’S SUMMER BASKETBALL CAMPS by Pat Williams with Jim Denney from Revell Reads in exchange for an honest review.  The foreword is by Nan Wooden.

I went into this new to Coach Wooden.  I knew only about him from reading the blurb of the book, but I was intrigued.  I don’t know much about basketball.  I’m always willing to learn and explore a new topic, and I knew that this would be a good book to discuss with my uncle, who is into basketball.

I found the book enlightening.  Coach Wooden is a man to admire.  I found it fascinating that he ran summer youth basketball camps for twenty years.  He made a huge difference in the lives of boys and girls.  Even if you aren’t big into basketball – like I was not – you’ll find yourself engrossed in the enlightening stories and hearing bits from Coach Wooden himself (albeit through quotes).  The book is written not in a way that scream “non-fiction,” but in a way that will make you feel like you’re a part of the team. 

If you’re looking for a book you can read in short intervals, a book that will make you look at your life differently, then this is the book for you.

Raising Passionate Jesus Followers

I received a copy of RAISING PASSIONATE JESUS FOLLOWERS: THE POWER OF INTENTIONAL PARENTING from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.  It is written by Phil and Diane Comer, with a foreword by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs.

I was excited to read this because I have a toddler.  I want to ensure he grows up to be a good Christian.  I was a little worried this book would start off about teenagers, and by the time he is a teenager, I would forget what I read or it would be too late.  Luckily, that’s not the case.

The book teaches about teaching your kids through every age.  I can see this being a helpful read for expectant parents as well as current parents. 

RAISING PASSIONATE JESUS FOLLOWERS is a fast read with each chapter broken up into short sections and Bible quotes.  The book goes in-depth and provides fascinating insights about things I hadn’t thought of before.

The Rescue

I received a copy of THE RESCUE: SEVEN PEOPLE< SEVEN AMAZING STORIES by Jim Cymbala with Ann Sprangler from Zondervan via handlebar in exchange for an honest review.

Going into this, I was prepared for stories told by seven different people, stories that would stick with me and inspire.  I thought to relate to them and hopefully share them with others.  All this is true, now that I’ve read the book, but it was so much more. 

Each story will make you think.  I love collections like this, because the stories are true, and they tug at you.  They make you question the world around you.  Once you’re done reading, you’ll feel a deep connection to each of the seven people.  The people are at their lowest points and you are able to see how they are rescued.  It goes to show that there is always hope, even if you can’t see it at the time.

I recommend this to anyone who is going through a dark period, or to anyone who wants to read about lost souls being saved.

DWARVES OF CALCUS by Katie Hamstead

This is the third book in the “Fairytale Galaxy Chronicles.”  It works as a standalone. 

I’ve come to expect unique fairytale retellings when it comes to this series, and book three didn’t disappoint in the least.  This is one of the best Snow White retellings I have ever read.  Not only was it comical in places, dark in others, but I couldn’t stop reading until I discovered what happened next. 

Definite 5 stars!

MYTHS OF MISH by Katie Hamstead

This is the second book in the “Fairytale Galaxy Chronicles.”  It works as a standalone.  This is Hansel and Gretel as you’ve never read it.  I love stories that put a brand new spin on fairy tales.  This is one of the best.  It is unique and imaginative.  There was so much in it that just made me go, “Wow!”  Quite often I shared a bit with my husband.  If you’re looking for a creative spin on a classic fairy tale, check out MYTHS OF MISH.

PRINCESS OF TYRONE by Katie Hamstead

This is the first book in the series Fairytale Galaxy.  This is an enchanting book, and I don’t just mean it from the fairytale aspect.  As fairytale retellings go, this one is quite original.  The setting and characters are well thought-out and described.  The world especially is captivating.  It reminded me a lot of Firefly. 

My favorite part about this book was that the romance wasn’t insta-love or ridiculous.  I truly felt for them and it left me going “aww.” 

Beneath the Surface

I received a copy of BENEATH THE SURFACE by Lynn H. Blackburn from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  It is the first book in the series “Dive Team Investigations.”

I love a good mystery.  There’s nothing like getting lost in a who done it.  The mystery portion of this takes a back seat to the action.  There is action after action after action.  The characters are believable, with a strong female lead.  There is some romance, but it isn’t the central point.

If you love books with plenty of suspense, the kind of suspense that keeps you reading, you cannot miss out on BENEATH THE SURFACE.  This is Christian fiction, so the faith is strong, but it isn’t all the book is about.  Instead, it is woven seamlessly into the adventure.  Don’t start reading this if you don’t have a lot of time to devote to getting lost in chapters.

CELESTE by Ann Evans

I am all about books that switch time periods.  Its one of my favorite styles to write, but I don’t see it a lot in young adult fiction, so I was thrilled that CELESTE did that.  The transitions were smooth and I found myself easily absorbed in both worlds.  I was never confused about time periods, and the voices were distinctive. 

I couldn’t wait to keep reading.  There are plenty of creepy moments mixed in with action.  Great story!

SLUMBER by Christy Sloat

I have a soft spot for fairy tale retellings.  There’s something exciting about taking a classic tale and seeing the author’s new take on it.  SLUMBER is one of the best Sleeping Beauty retellings I’ve read.  Not only is it unique, but the characters are captivating.  This is a dark, delicious story.

LEATHER HEAD by Matt Converse

I decided to read this book because it is unlike anything I read on a regularly basis.  Normally I’m into fantasy and Amish fiction.  It never hurts to branch outside your comfort zone.

This book is emotional and dark.  It is creepy.  It is sexual. 

Years ago I read some erotica novels.  I remember them being flat.  It was all sex sex sex.  I was excited to find that LEATHER HEAD delved more into the emotional backgrounds of the characters.  They were well-rounded and real.  They were so real that they made the story even creepier!

If you’re looking for a book that will leave you unsettled (but not in a bad way), check out LEATHER HEAD. 

TIVA BOON: ROYAL GUARDIAN by Jenn Nixon

This is the first book in the “Tiva Boon” series. 

This is a longer book, but it was actually pretty fast to read.  Each chapter leads into the next so you want to keep going.  The adventure is intense and I didn’t come across any dull moments.

This is a fantasy, and toward the end, I would consider it to be a dark fantasy.  Some moments get pretty intense.  You’ll find plenty of emotion in here and lots of world building.

I look forward to seeing where the adventure continues. 

Carolyn M. Walker’s Debut Novel Immortal Descent is to release April 3, 2018!

Immortal Descent is a supernatural thriller about one man’s journey into a dark world of buried mythology, secret societies, and the true origin of immortality. Ethan West hopes for a fresh start in college, after a lifetime of pain and loss. But instead he gets a curse—a rebirth that closely resembles a death sentence. Now wielding a mysterious new ability, Ethan is hunted by a ruthless faction of ancient creatures known as Lorns.

On the run, Ethan quickly learns he possesses a gift that is more powerful than anything the world has seen in over a thousand years. Unfortunately, a power this great always comes with an unspeakable price… Based on the ancient lore of the Nephilim, the principles of order & chaos, and history’s mysteries, Immortal Descent goes where few tales have gone before.

What if one man’s beginning meant everyone else’s end?

Excerpt: “Ethan didn’t realize he was screaming until he felt Rue shaking him. His eyes flew open and he stared up at her face and into those bright silver eyes. For the briefest instant, all his fear melted away when he looked up at her. He remembered the shadowed eyes of the woman from the alleyway. These eyes were so different. Never had he seen eyes as hers before, so intense—so bright, so capturing. He held her gaze, almost afraid to look away. If he looked away, what would he see?”

Praise for Immortal Descent:

Readers have called Immortal Descent “amazing storytelling” and “completely original” and have said it’s a read that is “absolutely impossible to put down!”

About the Author: 

                                                                                                

Carolyn M. Walker grew up surrounded by books and has a particular soft spot for fantasy stories and psychological thrillers. With a Bachelors degree in both English Literature and Psychology from Florida State University, Carolyn loves exploring the many sides of the human psyche and building worlds that address some of life’s greatest “what-if” questions. In addition to being a creative writer, Carolyn is also a certified Copywriter, Copy Editor, and Marketing Consultant.

 

More about Immortal Descent:

Q) Why did you write Immortal Descent?

Immortal Descent originally came to me as a short story idea about a glimpse into the life of an immortal, witnessed by an ordinary man. But after sitting on the idea for a while, I realized the story deserved so much more. I’d read plenty of stories about immortality, but few addressed the origin of it and why. That’s when I thought this would make a great story, so I began researching on it. Add to that: dark factions, secret societies, an underground war, plus magic and you’ve got

the world of Immortal Descent.

Q) Will this be a standalone novel or a series?

A) This story took on a life of its own. It’s become an epic tale involving ancient lore, taboo history, and the idea of immortality existing in the real world. I’d written a paranormal thriller novel revolving around a (seemingly ordinary but not) young man named Ethan West and his experiences with the supernatural, but there is SO much more. Because of the scope of Immortal Descent’s universe and the extensive history it pulls from, readers can expect a series of books. We’ll be seeing more of Ethan, learn more about the original immortals known as the Lorns, as well as dig deeper into the stories of the antagonists of this book.

 Q) This book is at the threshold of New Adult with the protagonist Ethan West being just 20-years old. Was this intentional?

A) When the idea came to me as a short story, I was in my early twenties. I was still growing up and the feelings I had during that time in my life were very strong. I always knew I wanted to write a story with a protagonist at that particular age—there isn’t quite a time like it. Just as the teen years are a remarkable time, so is that short span of years thereafter. Ethan suffers from anxiety, struggled with his identity, and has other concerns common for someone his age. He’s turbulent, impetuous, and lost at times, but evolving—all elements that are pivotal to this dark story.

Social Media Links:

https://www.facebook.com/carolynmwalkerwrites/

https://twitter.com/MissWriteWise

Author Website:

https://carolynmwalker.wordpress.com/

Goodreads Author Profile

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17271041.Carolyn_M_Walker

Book Trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koGpNlfFqto

BLACK WINGS by Iryna K. Combs

If I thought PAY FOR MY SIN was good, then BLACK WINGS is excellent.  The world building is what really stands out to me.  It feels so unique and is a one-of-a-kind high fantasy. 

Character development is also on point.  I read a lot of books, and I can easily recommend this one for being unusual and satisfying.  There is romance, but it takes a back seat to the emotion and action.

A Fairy Tale Reveal

Valentine's Day means different things to different people. Honestly, sometimes in the past I hated the date (thought it was a way for couples to make singles feel inferior), but this time around I have something to really celebrate. This year, my beloved fairy tale will become a reality! Which means that this year, Valentine's Day will mean the following: - Princesses and dragons - Shape-shifting nuns and meek scientists - Giants (both good and bad) and royalty (also both good and bad) - Sword fighting and demon hunting - and so much more!

An Occasionally Grim Fairy Tale

Prince Bane Baronne has baby fever. He is in search of a wife with the proper mystical bloodline to bear him the heir of prophecy. Anna Leon is chosen, but Bane only pretends to be Prince Charming. When Anna questions his intentions, she vanishes from the castle. Convinced she is to blame for her younger sister's disappearance, Maria Leon is coerced into the royal marriage instead. She is older, wiser, and should know better--but Bane always gets what he wants. And he is not above using trickery or treachery to do so.

Maria attempts to salvage what she can of a "happily ever after" by working hard to be the best mother and wife. Until the day she learns that every woman who has married into the Baronne line disappears soon after they have produced an heir.

And she is next in line.

Available for purchase on AMAZON starting February 14th, 2018! Also available on Kindle Unlimited. About the author:

More about me: Growing up an only child, I learned to entertain myself. During summer vacations, my greatest form of exercise consisted of turning the pages of a book. Now I'm all grown up, and full of stories half-written in my head. I have to write them down so I can find out what happens next. What I enjoy: Writing, reading, being a small animal veterinarian, trail running, being a mom (although sometimes the hours do not promote good sleeping) and wife, and yoga (not saying I'm good at it, just that I enjoy it) Why I wrote this book: Almost thirteen years ago I became a mother to my son. I had no idea how over-protective I would become over this little baby. That's why I started writing this book -- because new moms have so much free time, I thought I'd pick up a new hobby. Makes total sense, right? I've written several other books since then, but kept coming back to revise and rewrite this one -- my first writing love, so to speak. So happy it will finally be out in the world, and I sure hope the world enjoys it! Social media links: twitter facebook pinterest blog

TURNING THE STONE by S. L. Perrine

This is the second book in the “Blood Rites” trilogy.  I really enjoyed book 1 and I was worried this wouldn’t stand up.  Happily, I was wrong.

Generations have passed, and I felt bad at first that I couldn’t read more about Seraphina, who I loved.  This book is about Gwen and Silas instead.  Their love made me smile, and I kept rooting for them.   

This is another fast-paced book about adventure and magic.  I was totally into the love story.  I needed that in my life right now. 

PAY FOR MY SIN by Iryna K. Combs

What I liked best is that the action starts right up.  There is never a dull moment in this story. 

As I was reading, I was reminded of the LEFT BEHIND series.  A friend in junior high had me reading those books and I didn’t really care for them.  I started to grow concerned that this would be the same case, but it wasn’t.  I found myself immersed in this story and couldn’t wait to keep reading.  I had to force myself to finish the LEFT BEHIND books.  If you’re a fan of that series, definitely check out PAY FOR MY SIN, and if you aren’t a fan, still check out this book.

With that said, this book isn’t just another retelling of the rapture.  This reads as quite original and I was blown away by it.

Phoebe's Light

I received a copy of PHOEBE’S LIGHT by Suzanne Woods Fisher from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  It is the first book in the “Nantucket Legacy” series.

I have mixed feelings about this book.  Overall, I greatly enjoyed it, and I recommend it to fans of historical fiction and Christian romance.  Phoebe was excellently drawn; in fact, every character was exquisite.  Fisher is a wonderful writer. 

The scenes at sea were detailed and realistic.  It was interesting to read about Quakers.

There were two things in particular that bothered me.  One was that the book wasn’t really based in Nantucket.  Rather, it mainly took place at sea.  While I did enjoy those sea scenes, I was hoping for a book just about Nantucket.  The other part that bothered me was the diary.  I couldn’t connect with Mary.  The diary felt forced to me and I found myself starting to skim the diary entries.  I had to force myself to read them word for word.

PHOEBE’S LEGACY has sparked my interest in Nantucket, and I’m thinking about planning a vacation there for this summer.

EMBER by Heather Anne

Beautiful cover?  Check.  Creepy but beautiful town that feels oh so real?  Check.  Teen romance?  Check.  Unforgettable main character?  Check.

I ate this book up.  I am such a sucker for fantasy stories and lately I’ve been trying to get into teen romances.  This book had both, and it is fast-paced enough to entertain even the pickiest young adult reader.  Well done! 

This is the first book in the “Keeper of the Fae” series.  I look forward to seeing what Heather Anne does with book two.

BLOOD RITES by S. L. Perrine

This is the first book in the Blood Rites trilogy. 

The cover is so beautiful I want to just keep looking at it.  I read this as an ebook and can’t wait to get my hands on the paperback.

This is the story of a teenage witch who decides to fight back against everyone.  The setting is described in rich detail and you fully understand how the world works well before the action sucks you in too deeply. 

Emotion.  Magic.  Romance.  Definitely pick this book if you’re looking for an exciting adventure.  Its short, so you can easily read it in one sitting.

RIDING SHOTGUN: AND OTHER AMERICAN CRUELTIES by Andy Rausch

This was a little different than what I normally read.  Instead of one long story, this was a series of novellas, all quite unusual and centered around the theme of crime.  The novellas are all fast-paced and exciting.  I liked that they were novellas.  It gave me just enough to read before bed without making myself too tired in the morning!

My favorite of the bunch is “$crilla.”  It had me laughing aloud and my husband had to ask me what was so funny.

The other stories are equally good.  My second favorite would have to be “Easy-Peezy” because its historical fiction and I have a thing for that genre. 

“Riding Shtogun” was good too, but it didn’t hold my attention the way the others did.  I give those 5 stars, and this one a three.

Overall, I recommend this collection to anyone looking for something quite different and entertaining.

THE SUMMER THE WORLD ENDED by Matt Cox

This is a young adult post-apocalyptic book with a twist ending that will blow you away.  If you’re looking for something unique in the genre, check out this book.

I felt for Riley.  Her mom dies and she’s stuck with a dad she doesn’t know.  The descriptions of her emotions were spot-on, but my favorite descriptions are the ones of her dad.  He is so well detailed!

I liked that Riley is self-conscious about her weight.  I felt for her and knew exactly what she was talking about.  People have always accused me of having an eating disorder and making fun of my weight.  I thought giving her that characteristic was an awesome attribute.

This is a portrayal of a girl who is uprooted and forced into a new world.  It shows how she adapts and grows stronger.

A Song of Home

I received a copy of A SONG OF HOME by Susie Finkbeiner from Kregel in exchange for an honest review.  It is the third book in the series about Pearl Spence and the tagline states it a novel of the swing era.

I am deeply in love with this series, the first book especially.  It will often go through my mind.  I refelect on Pearl’s journey whenever I’m struggling.  With the series meaning so much to me, I worried that this book wouldn’t live up to my expectations.  Book 2 for me was good, but it fizzled out when it came to the mom.

I’m happy to announce this story is just as heartwarming as the first two books, and it has a wonderful amount of historical details to place in 1935 with Pearl.  More than being a period drama, though, it is the emotional story of a girl growing up in a broken family and going through normal preteen girl issues.

I have to say that the Mama in this book and book 2 didn’t match what I thought of mama in book 1, and that’s the only thing to put a downer on this series for me.

I recommend this book to teens and adults.  Although Pearl is 11, I don’t see it being appropriate for a child.  There is a lot of tough, adult topics and emotional heartache.  It is, however, a clean book.

Faithful Finance

I received a copy of FIATHFUL FINANCE by Emily G. Stroud from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.  The tagline is: 10 SECRETS TO MOVE FROM FEARFUL INSECURITY TO CONFIDENT CONTROL. 

I found this enlightening and it really spoke to me.  Right now, my husband and I are both out of work.  We have a baby and bills, and there are times that the finances are getting to be too stressful for me.  I especially liked the section on monthly budgets.  My husband struggles with that and I am hoping reading this will help.

People often talk about how important finances are, but they don’t always break it down.  This definitely breaks it down in a readable way that makes sense.  It might look like a textbook, but it doesn’t read like one.  This is perfect for those who know nothing about finance (like me) or for those wanting to think about finance in more depth.

ESCAPE FROM SAMSARA by Nicky Blue

Okay, this book is HILARIOUS.  If you’re looking for some humor and a fast read, definitely pick this up.  I read it in one night.  Quite a few times I laughed out loud and my husband had to ask me what was going on.

It does have some “guy” humor, but as a girl, I could still enjoy it.  I was glancing over the other reviews and saw that one mentioned it should be a comic strip.  I couldn’t agree more!

BLEED THROUGH by Adriana Arrington

This is such a chillingly good book.  You really get inside of Liam’s mind.  I’ve read other books where the main character suffers from a mental illness, and they were no where’s near this in-depth.  At times I almost felt like Liam.  I know many people who struggle with mental illness, and I know that they suffer from the stigma society has placed on them.  This story is refreshing in the way that it shows Liam not as a “villain,” but as someone pure and honest who must struggle with the workings of his own mind.

There is more to the story, of course.  It is quite suspenseful and one of the best thrillers I’ve read.

HAPPILY EVER AFTERS by Rachel Magee

This is an adorable, clean romance.  The chemistry between Lainey and Carter is enough to have you giggle and coo, without any smut.  Sometimes romance novels are too slow; this one has the perfect amount of characterization, buildup of setting, and adventure.  There wasn’t a dull moment and I got to know the characters well.

I loved the imagery for the beach.  It made me want to go back to the ocean.

An excellent read if you are looking for a fast-paced wholesome romance.

THE OTHER LAMB by Katie Young

Talk about creepy good!  This is an original take on vampires, and it adds in angels, which is something new for me with this genre. 

I especially liked that this novel explores different point of views.  That always enhances the experience for me.  You get to explore the story on a fuller stage. 

If you’re looking for something truly original or if you’re in the mood for some imaginative vampires, check out THE OTHER LAMB.  

THE EXXTINCTION: THE ONLY HOPE FOR MAN IS A WOMAN by J. A. Antonio

In one word, this book is exciting!  I didn’t expect so much action.  There is barely a breather, but it doesn’t leave you feeling drained.  The writing is smooth and in some place, it had a fairy tale feel, which only added to the story’s overall appeal. 

If you’re looking for some imaginative dystopian that is out of the ordinary, check out THE EXXTINCTION.

Is “epic dystopian” a thing?  I know epic fantasy is and dystopian.  If it wasn’t a genre before, this book should make it a thing.

Note: I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

HERE BY DRAGONS by Kadee Carder

I was excited to read this, because so far I’ve enjoyed all of Kadee’s other books.  They are filled with action, adventure, and the best part is that they are clean.

This book is Tucker’s story.  You don’t need to have read the other books to enjoy this one, but it will enhance the experience.  I’d liked Tucker, but never felt too connected with him.  This changed that.  He might be my new favorite from the series!

ANDI TO THE RESCUE

I received a copy of ANDI TO THE RESCUE by Susan K. Marlow from Kregel in exchange for an honest review.  This is the fourth installment in the series “Circle C Beginnings.”

This is another stellar contribution to the Andi universe.  This reminded me a little of an American Girls drama and an episode of “Little House on the Prairie.”  ANDI TO THE RESCUE has got to be my favorite book of this series so far.  It had a lot more danger than the other books, but it is a still a clean romance, with plenty of tender moments.  It goes to show that even a child can be brave and do the seemingly impossible.  The added historical facts at the end are just a bonus.

Andi Lassos Trouble

I received a copy of ANDI LASSOS TROUBLE by Susan K. Marlow from Kregel in exchange for an honest review.  This is the third installment in the series “Circle C Beginnings.”

I loved the previous books in this series and the other series about Andi.  I enjoyed this one just as much.  It is a book that teaches kids about hard work, ranch life, history, and how to be a good person even if you don’t always feel like a good person.  In one word, I would describe the book as “sweet.”  A parent can feel good about giving it to their child to read.

Growing up, I watched a lot of westerns with my mom.  This book reminded me of those.  The theme for this one in the series is “rodeo.”  You can learn about what rodeos were like back then, and there is an informational chapter included at the end.

The Pirate Princess

THE PIRATE PRINCESS
by K. R. Martin

Sometimes, to become a princess…

Raised to marry a king, Renee’s greatest desire is to be a true queen. So, while other girls learned the art of embroidery, Renee perfected her skills with a sword. She was prepared to earn the respect of her future husband, but a chance encounter with a handsome stranger awakens her heart to the possibility of love.

… a girl must become a pirate.

When tragedy strikes, Renee flees, right onto a pirate ship! Surprising herself, she offers to join their crew. Happy to finally put her swordsmanship to use, she fights injustice on the seas, but when her kingdom is threatened, can she give up the safety and happiness for an uncertain future? Or can she finally become the leader, the princess, her people need?

But it here: https://www.amazon.com/Pirate-Princess-Sovereigns-Seas-Book-ebook/dp/B077P9PS6S/ref=pd_ybh_a_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WVQ7D9RXZC0CT9ZMEMEN

K. R. (Karen) Martin has always loved stories, whether reading or writing them. Her passion for stories led her to a BA in History with a minor in English. She’s unapologetically a princess at heart, even if she loves a good rapier as much as a formal gown. Deeply romantic, she loves that she gets to live with her own prince charming, and her best friend, in Texas along with their cat and two children.

Connect with K. R. Martin:

http://espanrose.blogspot.com

https://www.facebook.com/krmartinauthor

https://twitter.com/espanrose

https://www.amazon.com/KR-Martin/e/B077WLFFJ2/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

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