Tag: metaphysical fantasy

To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls by Amy S. Cutler Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A woman struggles with the actions that haunt her from a past life in author Amy S. Cutler’s “To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls.”

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The Synopsis

In her past life, after causing the death of a little boy, Nikki was so devastated that her soul mate promised to murder her in their next life, to make her pay for what she had done. With no knowledge of this, Nikki lives for years as an addict, down on her luck, until she is rescued by Ken, who helps her with all aspects of her recovery. With the help of a few new friends and a cat named Destiny, Nikki turns her life around. What she doesn’t know is that someone out there is destined to kill her, and he is watching, his passion for killing her growing stronger each day.

The question is: Can an agreement made between two souls be broken, and how far will one soul go to keep a promise made in a desperate attempt to save the other?

The Review

What a powerful and gripping paranormal and metaphysical fantasy read. The author did an incredible job of balancing the spiritual and karmic aspects of the narrative with the more grounded and emotional character arcs. The opening chapter was a gut punch for readers, revealing the devastating consequences of a single terrible decision. The struggles Nikki went through in this story, and the powerful imagery and atmosphere, were brilliantly illustrated through the author’s writing style and tone.

The heart of this book lies in its rich character arcs and mystery. The idea of karma and past lives was thoughtfully explored in this narrative, and the mystery of who from Nikki’s past life became part of her current life and what role they played was incredibly well developed. The tension and atmospheric nature of the plot, along with the dynamic between Nikki and several characters, were compelling, offering readers emotional depth and thought-provoking insights into the human soul and what it means to be human.

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The Verdict

Fast-paced, emotionally investing, and memorable, author Amy S. Cutler’s “To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls” is a must-read metaphysical and paranormal fantasy novel. The twists and turns, the shocking revelations, and the heartfelt, heartbreaking final chapters will stay with readers long after the story ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Amy Sampson-Cutler, author of “To Have and to Hold, to Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls” and “A Shadow of Love,” is a writer who earned her master’s degree in creative writing from Goddard College. Her work can be found in Slut Vomit: An Anthology of Sex Work, Tales to Terrify, WOW! Women on Writing, The Pitkin Review and more. She is the Executive Manager at Mount Peter Ski Area, where she grew up skiing in the winter and dreaming up stories in the summer. Her favorite days are spent knocking around story ideas with her husband. She lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband, son, and a ridiculous amount of furry family members. 

She can be contacted through AmysHippieHut.com. Also follow her on:

Facebook: https://facebook.com/AmysHippieHut

Instagram: https://instagram.com/amyshippiehut

https://bookshop.org/p/books/to-have-and-to-hold-to-love-and-to-kill-an-agreement-of-souls-amy-s-cutler/20601757?ean=9781685133429&next=t

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200655790-to-have-and-to-hold-to-love-and-to-kill

https://amzn.to/4q7hiLK

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Blog Tour Calendar

— Blog Tour Calendar

October 6 @ The Muffin

Join us as we celebrate the launch of To Have and to Hold, to Love and to Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler. We interview the author and give you a chance to win a copy of the book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

October 6 @ Tracey Lampley’s blog

Visit Tracey’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on why she writes scary stories even though she’s afraid of the dark.

https://www.traceylampley.com

October 7 @ All Things Writing

Visit Caitrin’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on finding time to write on a busy schedule.

https://www.caitrincking.com/blog

October 12 @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog for his review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.authoranthonyavina.com

October 15 @ Chapter Break

Visit Julie’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on how to turn everyday encounters into spooky stories.

https://chapterbreak.net

October 18 @ Boots, Shoes, and Fashion

Linda interviews author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

https://bootsshoesandfashion.com

October 20 @ A Storybook World

Visit Deirdra’s blog for her spotlight of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler. 

https://www.astorybookworld.com

October 22 @ Guatemala Paula Loves to Read

Visit Karen’s blog for her review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://guatemalapaula.blogspot.com

October 23 @ Knotty Needle

Visit Judy’s blog for her review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com

October 23 @ The Faerie Review

Visit Lily’s blog for her spotlight of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.thefaeriereview.com

October 24 @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog for an excerpt from To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.authoranthonyavina.com

October 25 @ Word Magic

Visit Fiona’s blog for a guest post by Amy Sampson-Cutler on creating the perfect ambiance to write paranormal tales.

https://fionaingramauthor.blogspot.com/

October 27 @ Lit World Interviews

Visit Ronovan’s blog for his review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://litworldinterviews.com

October 28 @ Kaecey McCormick’s blog

Visit Kaecey’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on tips on writing for your favorite genre.

https://www.kaeceymccormick.com/blog

October 29 @ Sarandipity

Sara interviews author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

Home

October 30 @ Words by Webb

Stop by Jodi’s blog for Amy Sampson-Cutler’s guest post on her favorite books to read on Halloween.

https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog

October 31 @ Sarandipity

Visit Sara’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on creating the perfect ambiance to write paranormal tales.

Home

November 2 @ Jill Sheets’ Blog

Visit Jill’s blog for her interview with author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

https://jillsheets.blogspot.com

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All We Keep Hidden by Kristen Martin Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A karmic vigilante finds herself the prime suspect in a murder investigation and must unravel her past lives and the dark secrets hidden within in author Kristen Martin’s “All We Keep Hidden.”

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The Synopsis

A gripping urban fantasy from International Amazon Bestselling Author Kristen Martin where magic collides with modern life, unleashing danger, destiny, and an anti-heroine you won’t forget.

What if the concept of karma wasn’t just wishful thinking, but an actual duty that’s guaranteed to be fulfilled?

For 30-year-old Maren Cordeau, it is. Having been through multiple incarnations and a daunting number of past lives, she’s finally landed among the ranks of the Noires—karmic vigilantes who carry out the eternal sentences of those who have ultimately chosen to “sell their soul”, be it for riches, fame, power, or something much, much darker. It’s no surprise that invoking nightmares to carry out said sentences has become one of her favorite pastimes… How could it not when she’s exacting justice for the innocent and defenseless?

Such a dangerous role requires the protection of a Sigard, assigned to all Noires at the time of incarnation. It’s a shame it’s Brant Colborn, her rival from previous lifetimes; but, regardless of their blatant animosity toward one another, they always find a way to work together—and actually grow to do a little more than tolerate each other this time around. But when Maren receives her next assignment, a trip into the underbelly of the shopping district to gather supplies turns into a nightmare of her own—her go-to shopkeeper, the Elder Witch of a coven, turns up murdered, in which she’s the number one suspect.

With so many things working against her, Maren can’t help but wonder if this is her own twisted rendition of karma playing itself out. But, as she revisits past lifetimes, what she discovers is much more than she’d bargained for… and could alter the very fabric of reality of years past and subsequent years to come.

The Review

This has been one of my anticipated reads of 2025, and I was not disappointed. The first thing that strikes the reader when delving into this narrative is just how atmospheric and haunting the world the author has built is, while also bringing a great sense of imagery to the writing itself, transporting readers into each visceral scene. There was one scene that offhandedly described a character’s movements and actions in a manner reminiscent of those of Harley Quinn from DC Comics. Immediately, I was able to picture the scene in my mind, and this happened frequently throughout the novel.

The character development and rich mythology were the standout features of this story. The chemistry between Brant and Maren both created the heat one would expect from an adult dark fantasy novel, while also adding to the tension and tone of the narrative that hangs in the air as Maren explores how deep their connection goes. While I love the exploration of various gods and magic from different cultures and mythologies, what stood out to me was the metaphysical aspect of the story, particularly the concept of past lives and the idea that we shape reality at all times. This thought process has been a driving force in much of my paranormal and metaphysical research, and seeing it so effortlessly tied into this plot and explored with nuance and care was a great literary device the author implemented in this work.

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The Verdict

With reflections of humor in the dialogue, emotional connection with the characters, and an outstanding balance of mystery, intrigue, and passion, author Kristen Martin’s “All We Keep Hidden” is a must-read dark fantasy novel that fits well into the upcoming spooky season, and a contender for Best Dark Fantasy Novel of 2025! The protagonist and the mythos the author creates were intriguing, and I instantly became invested in the story. The twists that unfold in the novel’s climax, along with the open ending of the story, bring both closure to the narrative and leave enough room for readers to crave more of these incredible characters and this world overall. If you haven’t already, be sure to grab your copy on October 7, 2025, or preorder it today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

KRISTEN MARTIN is the International Amazon Bestselling Indie Author of THE ALPHA DRIVE trilogy and SHADOW CROWN series, the standalone novel BEYOND THE STARS AND SHADOWS, as well as nonfiction works, SOULFLOW and BE YOUR OWN #GOALS. She is also a writing coach, a YouTuber, a podcaster, and a full-time creative entrepreneur. Living in Southeast Texas with her husband and their six kids, she loves all things young adult, science fiction, and fantasy.

Kristen prides herself on helping aspiring authors reach their dreams of publication through her coaching program, Valiance. She loves connecting with other writers and readers, so be sure to reach out!

Stay connected on:

Instagram @authorkristenmartin

YouTube /authorkristenmartinbooks

Facebook /authorkristenmartin

Pinterest @authorkristenm

https://www.kristenmartinbooks.com/

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Death at a Wedding by Marc Watson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Death himself attends his first wedding and must discover why rips in the fabric of time and space threaten to open up in author Marc Watson’s “Death at a Wedding,” the dark romantic comedy sequel to Death Dresses Poorly.

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The Synopsis

Death, the Grim Reaper himself, has received his first ever wedding invitation. Although perceived as an all-knowing, all-powerful being, he’s still clueless on how to act in public. That… and what to do about all the mysterious rips forming in time and space, threatening to consume all of existence.

But maybe, just maybe, Victoria can help him out with all of that before it’s too late.

In this unexpectedly dark romantic comedy sequel to Death Dresses Poorly, Ethan will come face to face with new love, old loss, completely average hamburgers, and finding out exactly what it takes to finally be free.

The Review

This was such a powerful and memorable read. The author brilliantly captured the emotional and philosophical aspects of the act of “Death” while also giving the protagonist Ethan, aka Death, a unique personality and dark humor that played well with this cast of characters. What makes Ethan such a dynamic character is that we see him wrestle with the life he had before becoming Death, and what it means to be still human while also having this ultimate cosmic power. Seeing him struggle with guilt and self-doubt while coming to terms with significant, universal concepts was refreshing and engaging.

The heart of this story was not just the grand mythos surrounding death as a concept and character, but in the end, what it means to be human and how precious life is. Getting to see both Ethan and the people he meets as both his human self and his Death self wrestle with these deep and meaningful concepts while also having a deep seated humor, especially between himself and his sister Arlene, showcases the power of life in the everyday and the mundane, not just the cosmic nature of life itself.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, imaginative, and entertaining, author Marc Watson’s “Death at a Wedding” is a must-read contemporary fiction meets fantasy and metaphysical fiction book. The twists and turns in Ethan’s journey, the dark yet relatable humor, and the mind-bending concepts surrounding death will keep readers invested in this growing series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Hello, I’m Marc Watson, and I write stuff. I’m an author of genre fiction (primarily Fantasy and Science Fiction of all lengths). I began writing at the age of 15 with a pen and paper, and I’ve never really stopped, even though until recently it was more of a background to me than my defining trait. I have been published on flash fiction site www.101words.org, as well as comedy site www.thecorrectness.com. I’ve been a student of the excellent writing classes at Athabasca University for a number of years.

I live in Calgary, Alberta, and was spawned out of the depths of Southern Ontario. I’m a husband, proud father of two, and can be sometimes found at an actual job. I’m an avid outdoorsman, martial artist of some high repute, baseball player of very little repute, and lover of all Mexican foods. One day ‘World Famous Poutine Aficionado’ will be on my business cards.

You can also find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/marcwroteabook, and on twitter at @writewatson. For public appearances and interviews, I am proudly represented by Creative Edge Publicity.

https://marcwatson.ca/

Guest Review: Shifting Realities: The Hill by M.E. Grantham (Aly Avina Review)

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Guest Reviewers, reviewsLeave a comment

Hello everyone! I am so excited to share today a special review. Recently I had the pleasure of reviewing author M,E, Grantham’s Shifting Realities: The Hill. Today I am happy to share writer and content creator Aly Avina’s review of the book. Some may know her as Aly with the Curves, and today she is sharing her thoughts on this book as well. I hope you all enjoy.

“Shifting Realities: The Hill” by M.E. Grantham is a thought-provoking, suspenseful tale that crosses genres in a beautifully intricate and compelling way. It is no easy feat to blend sci-fi with metaphysical fantasy and political strife reminiscent of our own modern America but that author does so seamingly effortlessly. 

 You will easily lose yourself within the pages of this tale of resilience that will have you feeling as though you are on your own spiritual journey with these incredible and well-developed characters that Grantham has expertly crafted. With the stunning backdrop of Ireland setting the scene for this eerie, powerful read, you will be on the edge of your seat as you find out what is drawing these characters to each other and how this will impact not only their lives but the world as we know it. Will they stand together and create a better world and future or will they fall, leaving us all in perpetual misery and defeat? This is the question that will be on your mind throughout this unbelievable and astonishing read as it builds to its inevitable climax. 

 This fictional tale is intriguing, suspenseful, and is not one I’m soon to forget. I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and the way the author detailed the feeling of there always being meaning or a reason that things happen. That the energy that is put out into the universe by us all is actually connected to a bigger, more important picture. It is not only a beautiful sentiment but a scientific study that will make you reflect on your own life as well as the world we live in. If you haven’t picked up your copy of “Shifting Realities: The Hill” by M.E. Grantham, be sure to do so immediately! You won’t want to miss out on this one.

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M.E. Grantham’s Website