Blog Tour: Opaque (Review)

Opaque
by Calix Leigh-Reign
Genre: YA Scifi/Fantasy
Release Date: August 19th 2016

Summary from Goodreads:

Highly controversial debut novel by Cālix Leigh-Reign is taking the nation by storm! For those who've been craving an untapped damsel-in-distress-less Sci-Fi niche - Opaque delivers in this gripping page-turner involving mutated Limbal rings, biokenretic anomalies, mental dysfunction, perplexing Russian ancestry & romance. Cālix takes us on an adventure that begins when 16 year old misanthropic Adam Caspian unknowingly reaches biokenretic puberty, and his supernatural abilities awaken to save him from his murderous intentions. His every thought revolves around the extinction of the human race until mysterious Afro-Russian Carly Wit stumbles into his English class one morning. Adam notices something otherworldly about her immediately but denies the bio-synch taking place inside of him. As he resists their blossoming love, he battles with unnatural thoughts of his mother. Discovering his origin isn't what he'd thought, he becomes determined to peel back the layers of his lineage and unmasks a multitude of mind-bending secrets along the way.

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Review: I am so glad I took the time to read this book! It's an exciting and powerful story that follows Adam. With superpowers, mythology, and a struggle with inner demons, along with the over all theme of good vs. evil this was an epic ride! The writing style is stunning, and I can't wait for more from Cālix!

About the Author
Cālix is the published author of the Russian-mutant, psychological Sci-Fi fantasy novel, Opaque. She's a certified paralegal and has studied creative writing under English teacher, script writer and published author Larry Strauss. Her earliest literary inspirations include Alice Walker, Larry Strauss, VC Andrews and Stephen King. She spent a majority of her childhood in libraries and developed an intense relationship with words. She's a member of YARWA and RWA and is currently serving as a judge for YARWA's 2016 Rosemary Contest. She enjoys prayer, discovering the minds of those who rebel against social programming, listening to music, a great cup of coffee, exquisite ethnic cuisine, spending time with family & friends, attending movie premieres, traveling and the arts. She spends her free time in the gym, fantasizing about story plots and different ways of changing the world.

Author Links:
Website│Goodreads│Twitter│Instagram

Blog Tour Organized by:
YA Bound Book Tours

Blog Tour: Red Winter (Review, Excerpt & Giveaway!)

A New Series from Amazon Best-Selling Author Annette Marie, RED WINTER is coming…

“Soon all her human fears would become meaningless. Her future had been written by the kami, and her destiny awaited her.”


In the enchanting new fantasy RED WINTER by Annette Marie, Emi Kimura has been preparing her entire life to become the mortal host of a goddess. When she discovers the lies surrounding her true fate, she makes a dangerous bargain with a fox spirit to seek out the truth. As her final days as a mortal approach, she must choose whether to bow to duty ... or fight for her life.

Synopsis:


Emi is the kamigakari. In a few short months, her life as a mortal will end and her new existence as the human host of a goddess will begin. Carefully hidden from those who would destroy her, she has prepared her mind, body, and soul to unite with the goddess—and not once has she doubted her chosen fate.
Shiro is a yokai, a spirit of the earth, an enemy of the goddess Emi will soon host. Mystery shrouds his every move and his ruby eyes shine with cunning she can’t match and dares not trust. But she saved his life, and until his debt is paid, he is hers to command—whether she wants him or not.
On the day they meet, everything Emi believes comes undone, swept away like snow upon the winter wind. For the first time, she wants to change her fate—but how can she erase a destiny already wrought in stone? Against the power of the gods, Shiro is her only hope … and hope is all she has left.


Release Date: October 21, 2016.


Order Red Winter Now:


Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Amazon CA


Add RED WINTER to Your TBR List on Goodreads!


Excerpt for RED WINTER (Red Winter Trilogy Book 1)
The yokai didn’t move, just held her in place with a strength she couldn’t fight. She tipped her head back to see his face, to gauge his intent. His gaze traveled across her room, intent and analyzing. Then his eyes flicked down and he appeared almost surprised to see her staring up at him. His mouth curved into a sly grin, flashing pointed canines.
His amusement at her terror sparked a tiny surge of anger. “Let me go!”
“Ah, little miko, didn’t anyone ever tell you not to run from yokai?” His deep, purring voice sent a shiver across her skin. He leaned down as his hand on her throat forced her head back. He brushed his nose along her jaw, from her chin up to her ear. “It’s the surest way to make us pounce,” he whispered, his breath tickling her ear.
Goose bumps raced down the back of her neck and she clenched her jaw. “Get your hands off me.”
He hummed as he pushed his face into her hair, inhaling through his nose. “But didn’t you put your hands on me first?”
“I was treating your wounds.” She summoned her most commanding tone, desperately hoping her voice wouldn’t quaver. “You’re proving that your kind’s reputation is well deserved with such disrespect and ingratitude toward the person who saved your life.”
His head came up and fear shot through her that she’d offended him, that he would surely kill her now. Instead, he made a thoughtful noise, and his hands fell away, releasing her.
She almost leaped out of his lap but remembered his comment about running from yokai. With more self-control than she’d thought she had, she carefully stood, walked four steps, and turned to face him. He stayed where he was, lounging on the bed with his feet on the floor, casually propped up on one arm. His head tilted to one side as he watched her, and that slight, knowing grin played about his lips.
She sank down to kneel on the floor, mostly because her legs were shaking so badly she was afraid he’d notice. As nonchalantly as possible, she slid her hands into the opposite sleeves of her kimono and pinched her hidden ofuda between two fingers, ready to pull the paper talismans out.
“No need for that, little miko,” he remarked, each word almost caressing her. How could he have such an otherworldly yet still human voice? “I will not harm you.”
She flushed, embarrassed she’d been so obvious, but didn’t let go of the ofuda. “What was that—that assault then?”
“Assault, you call it? That little embrace?”
“You—” She broke off with a small shake of her head. If he was determined to ignore the inappropriateness of forcefully holding a woman against him and rubbing his face on her, nothing she said would change his mind. “You have the manners of a dog.”
“What did you expect? The ritual greetings of the imperial court?”
“Some respect for the person who saved your life would have been welcome.”
“Ah, yes, you did save me, and I am very grateful.” He idly tugged at a lock of his hair as his gaze slid down her and back up again. “I am in your debt. Tell me your desire and I will fulfill it.”
“My—my desire?” she choked.
He smirked again. “A favor, little miko. I am saying I owe you a favor.”


Reivew:
I loved this book! While I thought it started out a little slow, I loved the chance to get to know the characters, and to see a part of Emi's live before everything changes. A stunning start to the trilogy, I am eagerly waiting to see what happens next! Great for fans of Asian culture and folk-lore this is a fun story told in an interesting way.




Author Bio:
Annette Marie is the author of the Amazon best-selling YA urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, which includes the 2015 Goodreads Choice Award nominee Yield the Night. Her first love is fantasy, a limitless realm of creativity where she can break all the boring rules of real life, but fast-paced urban fantasy, bold heroines, and tantalizing forbidden romances are her guilty pleasures. She proudly admits she has a thing for dragons, and her editor has politely inquired as to whether she intends to include them in every book.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of northern Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad). She shares her life with her remarkably patient, comparatively sensible husband and their furry minion of darkness—sorry, cat—Caesar. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in one art project or another while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit her website at 
 www.authorannettemarie.com

Find Annette Marie: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads



Celebrate the Release of RED WINTER with a Giveaway!
Grand Prize: 1 Winner will Receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card
Runner-Ups: 3 Winners will Each Receive one $10 Amazon Gift Card Each
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Blog Tour: A Criminal Magic (Review and Givewaway)

A Criminal Magic
Lee Kelly
Publication date: February 2nd 2016
Genres: Fantasy, Historical, Young Adult

THE NIGHT CIRCUS meets THE PEAKY BLINDERS in Lee Kelly’s new crossover fantasy novel.
Magic is powerful, dangerous and addictive – and after passage of the 18th Amendment, it is finally illegal.
It’s 1926 in Washington, DC, and while Anti-Sorcery activists have achieved the Prohibition of sorcery, the city’s magic underworld is booming. Sorcerers cast illusions to aid mobsters’ crime sprees. Smugglers funnel magic contraband in from overseas. Gangs have established secret performance venues where patrons can lose themselves in magic, and take a mind-bending, intoxicating elixir known as the sorcerer’s shine.
Joan Kendrick, a young sorcerer from Norfolk County, Virginia accepts an offer to work for DC’s most notorious crime syndicate, the Shaw Gang, when her family’s home is repossessed. Alex Danfrey, a first-year Federal Prohibition Unit trainee with a complicated past and talents of his own, becomes tapped to go undercover and infiltrate the Shaws.
Through different paths, Joan and Alex tread deep into the violent, dangerous world of criminal magic – and when their paths cross at the Shaws’ performance venue, despite their orders, and despite themselves, Joan and Alex become enchanted with one another. But when gang alliances begin to shift, the two sorcerers are forced to question their ultimate allegiances and motivations. And soon, Joan and Alex find themselves pitted against each other in a treacherous, heady game of cat-and-mouse.
A CRIMINAL MAGIC casts a spell of magic, high stakes and intrigue against the backdrop of a very different Roaring Twenties.

Review: 
 I really didn't know what I was getting into starting this book. While it's not my favorite, I did enjoy it, and loved the writing style! While I'm not sure how I feel about the ending, I also know that was the only logical way to end such a story, and enjoyed the chance to read it. I look forward to seeing what Lee Kelly comes up with next!

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iTunes / Kobo

Author Bio:
Lee Kelly has wanted to write since she was old enough to hold a pencil, but it wasn’t until she began studying for the California Bar Exam that she conveniently started putting pen to paper. An entertainment lawyer by trade, Lee has practiced law in Los Angeles and New York. She lives with her husband and children in Millburn, New Jersey, though after a decade in Manhattan, she can’t help but still call herself a New Yorker. She is the author of A Criminal Magic and City of Savages. Visit her at www.NewWriteCity.com.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

GIVEAWAY!

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Blog Tour: Blood Red, Snow White (Review & Giveaway!)

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Blood Red Snow White by Marcus Sedgwick
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Release Date: October 25th 2016
Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Russia, Fairy Tales
Synopsis:

It is 1917, and the world is tearing itself to pieces in a dreadful war, but far to the east of the trenches, another battle is breaking out - the Russian Revolution has just begun...

Blood Red, Snow White captures the mood of this huge moment in history through the adventure of one man who was in the middle of it all; Arthur Ransome, a young British journalist who had first run away to Russia to collect fairy tales.

Told as three linked novellas, part one captures the days of revolution but retells the story as Russian Fairy Tale, with typical humour and unashamed brutality. Part two is a spy story, set over the course of one evening, as Ransome faces up to his biggest challenge, and part three is a love story, full of tragedy and hope, as every good Russian love story should be.

Cover Reveal: Shadows of Suspicion

Title: Shadows from the Past

Author: Ashley Dawn

Genre: Christian Fiction--Inspirational romantic suspense

Cover Designer: Kris Wagner

Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:
Shadows From the Past

“…It is the price you pay for choosing to be a cop. Your brother’s life…”

Those words haunt her dreams, and her waking moments. LAPD officer, Aurora Kavvan cannot rest until she finds her brothers killer. Digging into the past always brings back unpleasant things: memories, guilt…the hit man. Now she is in a race against time to find the murderer before he finds her.

“Kill her. I don’t care how, and I don’t care where, but I want her dead now!”

Someone was trying to kill his dead partner’s sister. FBI agent, Jordan Reiley will stop at nothing to protect the woman he loves. Even if it means going against her wishes; putting himself between her and the man who murdered her brother.

Will God keep them alive long enough for them to find the truth?

Author Ashley Dawn was born and raised in rural Arkansas where she developed her love for writing while helping in her parent's office. She graduated with an accounting degree from the University of Central Arkansas but is currently working as a legal assistant.

Ashley has been writing professionally for the past ten years and has three published books.  Her Shadows Series include Shadows From The Past, Shadows of Suspicion and Shadows of Pain.  She is currently working on multiple projects including the fourth in her ‘Shadows’ series entitled “Shadows of Deception” and also a standalone suspense titled ‘One of Their Own’.  She an­­d her family make their home in Texas.

Author Links:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1083381.Ashley_Dawn

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2d5z2o5

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorADawn

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorashleydawn

Web: http://www.authorashleydawn.com/

Buy Links:
Shadows from the Past: http://amzn.to/2dE8tbp

Shadows of Suspicion: http://amzn.to/2daDGC3

Shadows of Pain: http://amzn.to/2daCqyR

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Blog Tour: WEREGIRL by C.D. Bell (Review and Giveaway!)

Welcome to my stop in the blog tour for WEREGIRL by C.D. Bell!

SYNOPSIS:

Nessa Kurland is running for her life. 

C. D. Bell's WEREGIRL is a fast-paced teen thriller set in Tether, Michigan, a town on the brink of shutdown since it was stripped of its resources by corporate polluter Dutch Chemical. 

High school junior, Nessa Kurland, is a cross-country runner with her eyes set on one thing: a college scholarship as her one-way ticket out of Tether. 

Talented teammate Cynthia Sinise invites Nessa on a nighttime run through Tether's overgrown forest trails. But she speeds ahead, leaving Nessa alone to discover a trapped wolf. Nessa tries to free the animal but is badly bitten, seemingly ruining her hopes for a strong fall season with the cross-country team. 

Instead, Nessa's freakishly quick recovery is followed by improved running times. All her senses are heightened. Nessa has transformed. 

She has become a werewolf. 

In her new state, Nessa learns there are things about Tether that powerful people want to keep hidden. Why does a Nobel Laureate work at the small-town medical clinic? Are top college athletic scouts really interested in her emerging talent? Can she trust Chayton, the motorcycle-riding guide her friends have faith in? WEREGIRL's Nessa must navigate her junior year and true human darkness, while making peace with her new, wild nature. 

Review: Raven Song

Raven Song by I.A. Ashcroft
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest, unbiased review* Thank you!

Blurb:
A century ago, the world burned. Even now, though rebuilt and defiant, civilization is still choking on the ashes.

Jackson, a smuggler, lives in the shadows, once a boy with no memory, no name, and no future. Ravens followed him, long-extinct birds only he could see, and nightmares flew in their wake. Once, Jackson thought himself to be one of the lucky few touched by magic, a candidate for the Order of Mages. He is a man now, and that dream has died. But, the ravens still follow. The nightmares still whisper in his ear.

Anna’s life was under the sun, her future bright, her scientific work promising. She knew nothing of The Bombings, the poisoned world, or the occult. One day, she went to work, and the next, she awoke in a box over a hundred years in the future, screaming, fighting to breathe, and looking up into the eyes of a smuggler. Anna fears she’s gone crazy, unable to fill the massive hole in her memories, and terrified of the strange abilities she now possesses.

The Coalition government has turned its watchful eyes towards them. The secret factions of the city move to collect them first. And, old gods stir in the darkness, shifting their pawns on the playing field.

If Anna and Jackson wish to stay free, they must learn what they are and why they exist.

Unfortunately, even if they do, it may be too late.

Raven Song is the first of a four book adult-oriented dystopian fantasy series, a story of intrigue, love, violence, and the old spirits in the shadows who wait for us to notice them again. Readers of Neil Gaiman, Holly Black, and Charlie Human will enjoy this dark magic-laced tale rooted on the bones of what our world could become. 

Review: This Savage Song

This Savage Song by Victoria Schwab
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blurb:
There’s no such thing as safe in a city at war, a city overrun with monsters. In this dark urban fantasy from author Victoria Schwab, a young woman and a young man must choose whether to become heroes or villains—and friends or enemies—with the future of their home at stake. The first of two books.

Kate Harker and August Flynn are the heirs to a divided city—a city where the violence has begun to breed actual monsters. All Kate wants is to be as ruthless as her father, who lets the monsters roam free and makes the humans pay for his protection. All August wants is to be human, as good-hearted as his own father, to play a bigger role in protecting the innocent—but he’s one of the monsters. One who can steal a soul with a simple strain of music. When the chance arises to keep an eye on Kate, who’s just been kicked out of her sixth boarding school and returned home, August jumps at it. But Kate discovers August’s secret, and after a failed assassination attempt the pair must flee for their lives.

Review: The Exiled Seven

The Exiled Seven by Blake Renworth
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest, unbiased review*

Blurb:
When Alariq is exiled from his home city-state for a crime he did not commit, only six stand by his side, convinced of his innocence and steadfast in their loyalty.

The seven dwarfs must set out from Ishtara to look for a new place to call home, but in doing so, they make a discovery that puts them all in danger. They are rescued and taken in by a mysterious and beautiful outsider, who lives alone in the depths of Loraheem Forest. What follows is Alariq’s struggle to come to terms with his exile, as those around him seek to make a place for themselves in this new life. Soon, however, it becomes clear their situation is more complex than they initially realized, and they begin to wonder if there is more behind Alariq’s exile than simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Told in a unique storyteller voice, this reversal and re-imagining of the classic fairy tale explores the themes of shattering betrayal, the subsequent struggle to trust again, and the basic desire to take control of one’s own destiny.

Review: The Bow of Destiny

The Bow of Destiny by P.H. Solomon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

*I received a ecopy from the author for my honest, unbiased review*
Thank you!

Blurb:
Haunted by his past. Hunted in the present. Uncertain what is real.
Athson has seen things that aren't there and suffered fits since being tragically orphaned as a child at the hands of trolls and Corgren the wizard. When a strange will mentioning a mysterious bow comes into his possession, he's not sure it's real. But the trolls that soon pursue him are all too real and dangerous. And what's worse, these raiders serve Corgren and his master, the hidden dragon, Magdronu, who are responsible for the destruction of his childhood home. Athson is drawn into a quest for the concealed Bow of Hart by the mystic Withling, Hastra, but Athson isn't always sure what's real and who his enemies are. With Corgren and Magdronu involved, Athson must face not only frequent danger but his grasp on reality and the reasons behind his tragic past.

I'm Late, I'm Late....! (Apology)

So I have been super behind on...well everything! I have the last few weeks of TTTs I wanted to do, I have a month's worth of reviews O.O and even my Instagram challenges are behind! Why am I writing this? It's to say I am working hard to catch up, and letting you know to look forward to some great books I just finished and am about to review, and to also encourage you to let me know what you are reading, or what you think of my posts, or whatever! I love getting comments, and would love to talk or just compare recent reads/posts! I also enjoy watching booktube videos especially the tags so feel free to comment if you are a vlogger/booktuber too!

Thanks again for reading and stopping by! :) 

Blog Tour: A Bong of Venom and Magic! (Review and Giveaway!)

Welcome to my stop on the tour for  Karen Tomlinson's A Bond of Venom and Magic! I really enjoyed this book, and definitely recommend it!



                                                    A Bond of Venom and Magic

by Karen Tomlinson
Genre: YA Fantasy
Release Date: October 14th 2016
Summary:
The Wraith Lord is hunting; his prize, the key to unleashing darkness and Chaos upon the eight Kingdoms. For Diamond Gillon the war raging in the south seems a remote danger until her home is brutally attacked.  Having lost everything she holds dear, Diamond is catapulted into a terrifying new world in which legendary beasts arise, magic is condemned and half blood fae, like her, have no rights. Despite her growing feelings for her saviour, Commander Hugo Casimir, he remains a paradox – not only is he a heartless killer, he is owned by the cruel immortal fae queen; a queen who will murder her own people for magic. As Diamond’s circumstances become ever more perilous she is drawn deeper into Hugo’s world and discovers the lengths to which he will go to save what he holds dear. Will Hugo become her friend, her protector, or – an enemy  not worthy of her trust? A Bond of Venom and Magic is a tale of two people bound by magic and secrets,  but trapped in the complexities of love and betrayal. It is the beginning of an epic journey, one that will test
Diamond’s resolve and determination to battle an evil that threatens not only her world but that of Eternity, the land of The Guardians and The Goddess.

 Add to Goodreads

 Buy Links: Amazon US|Amazon UK|Barnes and Noble|Kobo|iTunes

Excerpt:  
 

The window warrior spun swiftly in front of the door, facing Hugo with his sword drawn. Clearly he wanted to give his lord time to escape, even if that meant his own death. Before the door banged shut downstairs, Hugo stormed forward. The warrior flicked his wrist. Diamond gasped. Red magic. No Avalonian had red magic anymore. It ripple across the room like a wave of shimmering heat. Hugo roared, but not in pain. Leaning into the onslaught of power he grinned with fiendish delight, darkness rippling around him. A shroud
of silver-flamed shadow devoured the red wave, even as his powerful body charged forwards. The warrior swore, desperately raising his sword in defence. Clearly he had expected a different reaction to his magical attack. Hugo’s wrathful bellow filled the room as he drove his sword down. Metal jarred and sparked.
  “You took her from me! I can smell her blood. Now you will die!” he promised, his voice nothing like his own.It was more animalistic than Diamond had ever heard. The warrior blocked Hugo’s blade with skill and precision. Red magic meant the ability to control heat and fire. Hugo’s blade began to glow as the other fae heated it like it had come out of a furnace. Hugo grunted but did not let go. The white-hot metal did not burn him through the glove of darkness rippling around his hand. “Stop this, commander! We are not your enemy,” the warrior panted, blocking and spinning away from Hugo’s blades with utter confidence and no
small amount of skill.
Hugo did not answer, his only response was to blast the red magic away with a veil of
darkness, parrying a strike and bringing his other blade down with such force the window warrior stumbled, almost driven to his knees. Hugo blocked the warrior's sweeping sword strike and stabbed him through the shoulder, before mercilessly slashing across the male’s thigh. A move meant to incapacitate. The warrior dropped to one knee but somehow still managed to block Hugo’s killing blow. “Commander! Stop! She will be safer with us. If you take her back to the palace, the Queen will kill her! You know she will! We need Diamond to live! All of us do!” he panted, desperation in his voice now. Diamond gasped as she saw the warrior’s hand drop to his boot and grasp the handle of a small concealed knife.
“Hugo!” she yelled, fighting her bonds with all her might. Pain screeched through Diamond’s wrists as the silk tightened. She screamed. It was going to cut off her hands! Instead of killing the warrior, Hugo kicked his assailant in the chest sending him sprawling. There was a solid thud as the warrior’s head smacked into the wall and he stilled. Hugo immediately twisted to Diamond, dropping to his knees in front of her. Blood ran from her wounds, dripping down the chair arms.
“Keep still,” he ordered, pulling a dagger and slicing through the silken rope. Sobbing with relief, she sagged against him before the pain started in earnest. Her fingers burned as blood rushed back in. Diamond whimpered, not sure what to do with herself. Thoughts of the window warrior escaped them both. Hugo quickly slashed strips of material off his tunic. Dropping his blades he firmly bound her wrists, trying to staunch the heavy flow of blood.
For a moment he leaned his forehead against hers and gripped each wrist as she fought to control her panicked sobs.
“Shh. It’s alright. You’ll be fine now. Breathe, Diamond. In...out...with me. That’s it.” Slowly her mind returned to her. With her head leaning against Hugo’s, they shared the same warm breath. She closed her eyes, her body responding to his. Her breathing slowed until it mirrored his own and she could swear she heard the distant beat of his heart.
The scuff of boots on the wooden floor had Hugo on his feet in front of her, blades ready. Diamond looked
on as he faced the bleeding warrior, his face icy and calm.
“We are not your enemy,” the warrior panted. Equally calm and with slow intent he sheathed his own blades.
“Kill me if you must. But you know if you take her back to the palace, the Queen will destroy her. Let her come with me, commander. Please. I give you my word I will keep her safe,” the warrior appealed, holding his bloodied hands out to Diamond.
Hugo looked down at her, his brow bunched. Diamond shook her head frantically and grabbed at his tunic. He couldn’t be considering it.



 Review: 
I had the honor and pleasure of reading this fun story a little early! I loved it, and the characters so, mysterious, strong, and determined! I couldn't put this one down, and book two will definitely be at the top of my TBR when it comes out! This story resembles both fae lore, and some of the best fantasy adventures, combining the elements of the two into an exciting read! 

 

About the Author
Karen Tomlinson is the author of The Guardians and The Goddess series of Young Adult fantasy books.  Book one A Bond of Venom and Magic will be released October 14th 2016.
Karen has always been an avid reader. Her taste in books is eclectic but she likes nothing better than
an exciting fantasy set in a new and magical world. She lives in Derbyshire, England, with her husband, twin girls and her dalmatian, Poppy. Karen trained as a nurse and currently works as a resuscitation and clinical skills trainer, this involves training a wide variety of health care professionals and medical students in acute patient care. In addition to writing, and reading whenever she can, Karen likes to keep active. She has been  training at Shotokan karate since being thirteen, likes walking, mountain biking and (for some thing completely different) cake decorating. She is currently working on book two in the Guardians of The  Goddess series.

About me!

As soon as I could read I spent hours getting lost in the new worlds books could give me. Spending my pocket money had to be done (obviously) but not on sweets, well, not many... I spent my money on books. Back then it was Enid Blyton’s Famous Five which sparked my young mind. I didn’t rest until I had the whole set, then I migrated to the secret seven ...( there was no Harry Potter around then) As a teenager I  would trawl through all my mum and dad’s discarded books. It was probably highly inappropriate for a  thirteen year old to be reading swoony Mills and Boon romances followed by Ian Flemming, Alistair Maclean and Wilbur Smith!
Because I read whatever I could get my hands on back then, I now have an eclectic taste in books and will read anything that catches my eye. I absolutely love illustrated book covers! In my late teens I discovered fantasy and that has stayed my firm favourite. I am and will always remain a complete sucker for a fantasy  with kick ass characters, and worlds steeped in magic and romance!

Author Links:
Website│Twitter│Facebook│Goodreads



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Release Blitz: Distant Dreams

Title: Distant Dreams

Author: Alicia Rades

Genre: YA Paranormal

Hosted by: Lady Amber's Reviews & PR

Blurb:
Kai Watson is only 16, but she’s never had a real dream in her life. Each night, she leaves her body, travels to a new location, and adds the sites she sees to her “dream book.” When she witnesses the brutal murder of upperclassman Darla Baxter while astral traveling, Kai is determined to stay out of it. She never saw the murderer’s face, and who would believe her anyway?

Now Kai has lost her ability to astral travel, and she’s forced to relive the murder each night in a nightmare. With no word on Darla’s body, Kai decides to take the mystery into her own hands to find closure and get back to her travels. As she searches for answers, she continues to bump into Darla’s brother, Collin. Can she catch the killer and still open her heart to Collin, or will she lose her gift forever?

Facebook Release Party:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1429756277051306/

Alicia Rades is an award-winning young adult paranormal author with a love for supernatural stories set in the modern world. When she's not plotting out fiction novels, she's running her own professional writing business, plowing her way through her never-ending reading list, or preparing for the backpacking trips she takes every summer. In college, Alicia majored in communications with an emphasis on professional writing. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her husband and two cats.

Don't miss a thing related to Alicia's books. Sign up for her newsletter at http://www.aliciaradesauthor.com/newsletter/

Author Links: 
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Buy Links:

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TTT: Villains #9

First posted October 4 on Instagram by me @adventureshtruwonderland: 

Broke and The Bookish: "All About The Villains -- I don't think we've done a villains topic since back in November 2010 so let's revisit: top ten favorite/most compelling villains in books, top ten of the most vile villains/bad guys in books, top ten villains I secretly (or not so secretly) love, favorite tv villains, favorite comic book villains, ten "villains" of contemporary lit."

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the Broke and The Bookish.

 

My Top Ten Bands

1. Capt. Hook- If the fact that a grown man goes around being mean to kids isn't villainous, I don't know what is. #peterpan

2. Tamlin- Need I explain? He's a control freak, yet unable to think of the needs of others. While he isn't 'evil' he is also not someone most people like or even respect, because his way of dealing with things is to bottle it up until he explodes, not the best way of handling things, especially if you hope to keep your friends. #acomaf

3. Gaston- While he isn't 'evil' he's also not a hero in my book. Selfish, arrogant, and blind to others wants and needs, he has a lot to learn. #beautyandthebeast

4. Hans- talking about selfish arrogant males, Hans is definitely a villain. While I expected a trick, I never expected him to be so evil! #frozen

5. Morzan- Murtagh bears the scars to prove his father was evil. #eargon #inheritancecycle

6. Sauron- Again a control freak, and also an embodiment of all darkness. #lotr
 
7. Tigerclaw - Killing your clan-mates, and trying to kill your apprentice is pretty bad. #warriors #erinhunter

8. Harker - Again parenting gone wrong, loosing your monsters on a daughter, who you see az only a burden makes you an awful person. #thissavagesong

9. Amarantha - Since I mentioned Tam, she was definitely the villain in ACOTAR, everything, literally everything she does is evil. #acotar

10. Joker - because anyone who is that insane and violent, is definitely a villain.#batman

I know I'm late on this one, but what are your Top Ten Villains?  Feel free to share in the comments, and share a link if you posted this one your blog. I'd love to hear what you have to say! :)

Blog Tour: The Sailweaver’s Son

 

About the Book

Title: The Sailweaver’s Son

Author: Jeff Minerd

Genre: MG/YA Fantasy

The Sailweaver’s Son combines traditional fantasy with a dash of steampunk and takes young readers to a unique world—Etherium. A world where mountains rise like islands above a sea of clouds and adventurers travel the sky in sail-driven airships.

When fifteen year-old Tak rescues the survivor of an airship destroyed by one of the giant flammable gas bubbles mysteriously appearing in the sky of Etherium, the authorities react like a flock of startled grekks.

Admiral Scud accuses Tak of sabotage and treason. Tak’s father grounds him for reckless airmanship. Rumors spread that the bubbles are weapons devised by the Gublins, a race of loathsome but ingenious underground creatures. The King’s advisors call for war, hoping to win much-needed Gublin coal.  

To clear his name, solve the mystery, and prevent a misguided war, Tak must do what anyone knows is suicide—visit the Gublins and find out what they’re up to. When the wizard’s adopted daughter, an oddly beautiful and irksomely intelligent girl from the Eastern kingdoms, asks Tak to help her do just that, he can’t say no.

The adventure will take Tak from the deepest underground caves to a desperate battle on Etherium’s highest mountaintop. It will force him to face his worst fears, and to grow up faster than he expected.

Review:
Such a fun read! I am glad I took the time to read this. I loved the characters, and the story was well written! While this is defiantly a YA read, it could easily be enjoyed by readers of all ages. With a strong plot, beautifully told, and fun characters this book could be the start of a great series! Get swept up if this exciting adventure and join Tak as he travels through the stunning
steampunk/fantasy setting in this exciting tale!
 

Excerpt: 

“That’s comforting,” Tak said. “Turn your back.”

Brieze turned her back. Tak and Lothran completed their exchange of clothes. Lothran tied the white mask about Tak’s face. It smelled of some unpleasantly medicinal substance. Tak hoisted the tray of tea and edibles onto his shoulder and made ready to exit the front door masquerading as a member of the wizard’s island people. Brieze licked her hands and did her best to smooth down Tak’s wild hair. Ordinarily Tak would not have put up with anyone running their—ugh!— licked hands through his hair. But in this case he found he didn’t mind so much.

“One more thing,” Brieze said, laying a hand on Tak’s. “Your ring. That certainly will get you spotted.”

Tak looked down at his left hand. “You want me to give you my family ring?” he asked. Removing and handing over one’s family ring was a symbol of surrender. There were stories of men in the Kingdom of Spire who had preferred having their hand cut off—or being put to death—rather than hand over their ring.

“Just for now,” Brieze said. “I’ll give it back. I wouldn’t want it to give you away.”

Tak patted at his new clothes with his free hand, looking for a pocket into which he could stow the ring. But Lothran’s simple clothes had no pockets. Tak suspected that Brieze knew this.

“The tea is getting cold,” Brieze said. She drew herself up to her full height and looked down at him with a deep, dark-eyed gaze that Tak, without meaning to, felt like a warm glow in the center of his chest. His hand tingled pleasantly where her fingers rested upon it. Goosebumps blossomed along his forearm.

He gave her the ring.

Author Bio

Jeff Minerd thought he stopped writing fiction a long time ago until the story for The Sailweaver’s Son came to him not in a dream but after a dream. He is grateful for that, and for the opportunity to explore the world of Etherium and entertain others with what he finds there.

Jeff has a son, Noah, who is also a writer and avid reader. Jeff hopes to one day place in the top ten—or maybe even top five—of Noah’s favorite authors. But the competition is pretty stiff.

In a previous lifetime, Jeff published short fiction in literary journals including The North American Review. One of his stories won the F. Scott Fitzgerald competition, judged by former NPR book reviewer Alan Cheuse.

More recently, Jeff has worked as a science and medical writer for publications and organizations including the National Institutes of Health, MedPage Today, The Futurist magazine, and the Scientist magazine.

Jeff lives in Rochester, NY.

Links

Web: http://www.jeffminerd.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffminerd.author/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeff_minerd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffminerd/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/36497851-jeff-minerd

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/X_brXTtCuak