I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman must collect eleven rings holding powerful Jinn kings in order to free her mother’s trapped jinn in author Ahlam Faris’s “Daughter of Light and Dark”, the first book in the Rings and Chains series.
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The Synopsis
She wanted one thing and one thing only, to free her mother’s Jinn from his golden ring, but to free one is to free them all. Accompanied by her Jinny Companion, the Lord of chains, and a dark presence stirring to free from within her, Mina sets on a journey to find all the eleven golden rings of the Kings of Jinn, her main mission overshadowed by scheming royals, a troubled friend, and a crumbling world.
The Review
The world-building and mythos that the author brought to the story were incredibly presented. The Middle-Eastern mythology that became the backbone of this fantasy world brought the story to life thanks to the author’s mastery of imagery in the writing style. The action is immediately felt, taking the reader into the adventure as the protagonist seeks out the rings and cements herself as a hero.
The character development found in this narrative was top-notch. The tension that mounted as the journey got more and more dangerous allowed the relationship between characters like Zyed and Saif with the protagonist, Mina, to grow and prosper naturally. The magic and fantasy elements of the story allowed Mina’s heroic journey to flourish and prosper, giving readers a glimpse into the life that Mina led throughout her journey. The emotional connection to her mother also drove the narrative forward greatly, giving a glimpse into the heart of what makes Mina such a powerful protagonist to follow.
The Verdict
Action-packed, rich in mythos, and thrilling, author Ahlam Faris’s Daughter of Light and Dark is a must-read YA fantasy novel. The narrative’s twists and turns and the shocking final chapter will keep readers eager for more of this brand-new series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I’m Ahlam Faris, a self-published Indie Author who have a passion for all things fantasy, I’ve been writing for years, but I’ve only recently found the courage to submit my work to the world, I really hope you enjoy reading “Rings and chains: Daughter of Light and dark.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Traveler and hero Diomedes returns for his lost love, only to find himself dealing with the avatar of Aphrodite and a need for redemption for his past in author Gregory Michael Nixon’s “Diomedes in Kyprios”.
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The Synopsis
This is a historically-based novel with authentic, mythic, & fictional characters interacting across the extraordinary panorama after the Fall of Troy and the Hittite Empire during the Bronze Age Collapse. Diomedes leads his Akhaians (Achaeans) to the Isle of Kyprios (now Cyprus) to meet his lost love, Lieia, the ex-queen of the Hittites. Kyprios is where the Peoples of the Sea have gathered before their final assaults on Canaan and Aigyptos (Egypt). But Diomedes unexpectedly meets the avatar of the Goddess Aphrodite at her Temple in Paphos, the city of her birth. Will she take him from Lieia? Will his wanderings end, or will he head back to sea to seek redemption from the past in the further unknown? Aphrodite must also deal with the beautiful, impetuous youth, Adonis, who swears he would die for her.
The Bronze Age Collapse was a time of such chaos that empires fell, royalty was overthrown, palaces and temples were destroyed, and the hierarchy of the gods was doubted, yet people’s self-reliance emerged like never before, and the ancient Great Goddess of the Cycles of Time, who had been suppressed, began to regain her former dominance.
The Review
This was a powerful and compelling read. The author did an incredible job of infusing great detail into the narrative, exploring the ancient cities and states of the old world before they became what we know today, from Kyprios being Cyprus to Aigyptos becoming Egypt. The imagery in the author’s writing style brought these ancient cities and their peoples to life perfectly, and the evolution of Diomedes and Lieia as characters really took off, giving them each new role and path to explore. Seeing Diomedes adjusting to life after the first book’s events and trying to become a creator more than a destroyer was such a great story, and the compelling journey of Lieia as Aphrodite’s avatar was mesmerizing.
The balance of genres in this book was really what brought the whole story together. The emotional connection and story between Diomedes and Lieia were great uses of romance. At the same time, the military action and adventure of the narrative added depth to the fantastic historical fiction storytelling of the book, allowing readers to feel embedded into the conflicts that would follow, including an attack on the Sea People from what would be the Ancient Egyptians.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, engaging, and thrilling author Gregory Michael Nixon’s “Diomedes in Kyprios” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns that follow and the rich infusion of mythos capture what makes history and mythology so vibrant and exhilarating to many people worldwide. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I have been writing all my life, beginning in our small town in Saskatchewan. Most my adult life was spent as university professor, so my publishing to this point had all been academic (but still accomplished). As an avocation, in my off hours I studied the Mycenaean era of Ancient Greece, as well as theories of myth & ritual and the mythic mind. Once I retired, I returned to a novelistic venture I had been dreaming of since reading Homer’s Iliad at 15 years old: bringing to life the further adventures of the hero, Diomedes. When at last I dedicated myself to novel writing two years ago, my dream was reinvigorated. However, my characters insisted on entering the Hittite Empire, probably because its capital, Hattusa, came down in flames only a few years after Troy (Ilios). I followed their wishes and brought Hittite royalty into my tale, including Suppiluliuma II, the last of the Great Kings. I immersed myself in Hittite studies, and finally this unusual book emerged — an historical fiction with a strong portrayal of mythic consciousness at the time of the Bronze Age collapse..
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Two survivors of a Great War between Atlantis and Rama must lead their people and stay ahead of the rivals chasing after them in author James Grimm’s “The Power of Water”, the first book in the Doom of the Gods series.
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The Synopsis
The war raged for ten years…
Now, Atlantis wants to use WMDs…
But can civilization survive it?
During the last Ice Age, the clash of steel and the roar of aircraft echo through the land as the empires of Atlantis and Rama wage a desperate war.
There are many stories to tell the tale.
Risor sees the trap closing. But Jana, the mission commander, refuses to withdraw. She fears the consequences of failure. Threatening mutiny, he forces her to order the retreat. That Risor is right makes matters only worse, turning the rivalry personal.
Rogat is not sure what he did to offend the gods. Because the demi-god hero constantly chasing him doesn’t seem fair.
With Atlantis suffering, the empire falls apart.
Fleeing from a vengeful Jana, Risor must lead his people to freedom. Meanwhile, leading another band of survivors, Rogat tries to stay one step ahead of his nemesis. Read about Risor and Rogat in a gripping tale of war and survival that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Because revenge is such a satisfying reason to destroy a civilization.
Get your copy now!
The Review
This is such a powerful blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and mythology. The author does an incredible job of world-building, delving into the civilizations of Atlantis and Rama and the cultures that brought these two civilizations to war. The author’s imagery and atmosphere allow the tension to build enormously, allowing the characters to explore their internal and external struggles naturally.
The character development and action drive this narrative home. The complex rivalry and animosity each protagonist endures from their pasts and how these characters tie into the world’s mythos show these ancient mythological cities and powerhouses balanced with the advancement of humanity and technology. The action driven by this decisive war and the wrath of the gods in the face of this war all speak to mankind’s unquenchable thirst for power and control and how often that led to the downfall of so many civilizations in the past.
The Verdict
Memorable, action-driven, and entertaining author James Grimm’s “The Power of Water” is a must-read sci-fi and fantasy narrative. The twists and turns the author gives readers as the plot develops and the open ending will have readers eager to devour more from this emerging series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Instead of just daydreaming of my fantasy worlds and people, why not write about them. At least that is what I told myself when I started this journey in 2014.
Living in Japan, the land of Anime, the Samurai, the ultra modern and extremely old seems to fuel my worlds. Both the ancient and new meld together into worlds where superpowered school kids defeat evil, forest spirits help or fight humans or giant, futuristic robots battle to save the world. Where else to live for inspiration!
In the land of the rising sun, I create my worlds, that I hope entertain you.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young explorer with a shocking past and an immortal warrior must temper their growing attraction in the face of a growing threat in author Eden Robins’s “Gold: Heart of a Warrior”.
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The Synopsis
It’s just gonna be one of those days…
Empathic healer and business owner, Dora Alexander decided to celebrate her 25th birthday by exploring the stalagmites and stalactites in Kartchner Caverns. Kinda nerdy? Maybe, but you do you, right? Things take a nasty turn when an earthquake rocks the cave, leaving her alone in complete darkness. Searching for a way out, she accidently awakens an immortal warrior who’s kind of cranky after his 100-year nap. Wouldn’t you be?
Philoctetes, one of Demeter’s immortal Gold warriors wakes up to the disturbing sound of a female sobbing. Thinking she’s one of the Silver demons he’s sworn to hunt down and destroy, he almost kills her before realizing she’s human. Correction. Turns out she’s not just human. She’s also the woman responsible for sending his kind to hell and causing woe and misery for the entire human race.
Dora never asked to be Pandora reborn. And she certainly didn’t ask to be paired up with an insanely hot immortal demon hunter on a mission to save the world and redeem them both. But The Fates seem to have their own quirky ideas. One of them being if she and said hot demon hunter consummate the inferno like attraction blazing between them, they’ll simply cease to exist, with any memory of their time on earth erased forever.
Oh goody, the day just got worse.
The Review
This was such an engaging and impressive blend of mythology and modern fantasy. The author masterfully brought the mindset and morality of the Ancient Greek gods and goddesses to life in the more modern-day setting of Arizona, with its blistering heat, technology, and desert environment. This allowed the reader to get lost in the rich atmosphere that was developed.
The narrative did a great job of bringing out those epic, destiny-fueled adventures to life on the page, and the action and dangers the villainous Silvers represented allowed the reader to feel the stakes of this story. Yet the dynamic between the two protagonists and their back-and-forth chemistry that evolved and grew over time brought the heart of this narrative to life. Their singular evolution throughout the narrative and how they embraced their journey was unique. Yet, the growth they shared and the romantic tension were an immediate draw into the story.
The Verdict
Author Eden Robins’s “Gold: Heart of a Warrior” is a heartfelt, compelling, and entertaining novel. The narrative’s twists and turns, the emotional pull of the protagonists’ shared goals, and the shocking cliffhanger will keep readers eager for more of this incredible story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Eden Robins believes in second chances. Eden’s journey as an author started in 2000 with the release of her first book, a time travel romance entitled, Never Until Tomorrow. Over the course of the next eleven years, Eden wrote and shared nine stories from her heart with her readers. After a divorce and big changes to her personal life, Eden’s writing came to a crashing halt and her path took a different direction.
Twelve years after her last romantic tale was published, Eden found a home for her latest novel, Gold: Heart of A Warrior with Champagne Book Group. A magical, modern-day romantic romp into Greek myths come to life, this story gave her a second chance to do what she loves. Write. Connect with Eden Robins and check out her blog, Living the Path.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’m a creatress at heart. Always have been. Creativity has been my companion and guide since I was little. I love to create through writing, gardening, cooking, crocheting, and playing piano. I’m an avid reader who loves to get lost in a great book. I also love to move my body, whether that’s through dance, or hiking or running or jumping or working out at the gym. Moving my body on a regular basis keeps me happy. What I eat matters a lot to me as well. I switched to a mostly whole food plant-based diet several years ago, and like how that makes me feel. I enjoy being outdoors, but also can spend a lot of time writing, reading, and daydreaming inside my home. My home is my sanctuary, my respite from the rest of the world. I often interact in group settings and like to be social, but I always need to balance that with alone time to decompress for a bit afterward. I can be, at times, very “hermit-like.”
I got into writing after I finished my first book. Seriously, that’s exactly how it happened. Growing up, I journaled, penned poetry, and wrote some articles for my high school newspaper, but I never pictured writing as a career path rather than a hobby until I finished my first novel. Both of my parents were in the medical/science field, and I was (and still am) fascinated by many aspects of science. The catalyst for my dive into writing was the death of my paternal grandfather. After he died, I had regrets about not spending more time with him. I kept wishing I could go back in time to get to know him better. I felt the urge to sit down and write about it, and that’s how my first book, a time travel romance entitled, Never Until Tomorrow, was born. It was as I typed the words “The End” that I knew I was hooked, and realized writing was something I wanted to take seriously for the rest of my life.
From that point forward, I was lucky enough to find publishers interested in my work and have had the privilege of sharing ten of my published novels with the world.
What inspired you to write your book?
Each book has its own inspiration. My current release, a modern-day romantic romp into Greek mythology entitled, Gold: Heart of A Warrior, was inspired by a children’s book on Greek myths I had bought for my kids. I read a lot to my children while they were growing up and was always looking for literature that would stimulate their minds and inspire their imagination. I picked up Usborne Illustrated Guide to Greek Myths and Legends by Cheryl Evans, and the complex and juicy lives of the characters in these myths caught not only my children’s attention, but mine as well. Particularly, reading about Pandora opening the Jug of Woes and releasing evil and misery into the world pulled at something inside of me. I felt like this was a woman who had been used by the Gods (Zeus) as a pawn, and then forever punished and maligned after she had done the deed she was manipulated to accomplish. I began thinking about how her story could go in a different direction. I started wondering what would happen if Pandora was offered a second chance at life. What would she do? How would she live? Who would she become if she were no longer a pawn of the Gods, or at least less of a pawn than before?
What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The path to empowerment is always through the self, and second chances are possible at any age.
What drew you into this particular genre?
Love and hope. Although romantic fiction isn’t the only genre I write (I also write mainstream fiction and nonfiction), that feeling of falling in love is so magical. I enjoy creating that for my readers. I also like writing stories that have a happily ever after that leaves the sweet taste of optimism in my readers’ mouths. Those two reasons keep me excited about writing in the romance genre.
What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
At this point, I’d have to say it’s Instagram. The reader community is very supportive, engaged, and interactive.
What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Just pick up the pen and write. It’s not about perfection or getting the grammar just right. There’s a magic in the process of simply putting your story on the page that can transform a writer’s thoughts into a masterpiece. As Michelangelo once said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” That blank page offers a writer the opportunity to unlock the story of their heart. Just start writing. The rest will come together.
What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
The future feels so bright. Especially in light of the past. After my initial foray into my writing journey, with nine of my novels getting published, I hit a wall. I got a divorce, and for more than a decade after, I just couldn’t write. I came to believe my creativity had dried up. I didn’t put a book out into the world during that time. It was a frightening period in my writing, but looking back, I know that “ten years of drought” taught me so much and provided an evolution and a deepening for me that I needed. I understand now that while I wasn’t creating stories for my novels during that time, I was creating the story of my life. A story I needed to establish before I could continue my book writing journey.
Now, more than a decade with no books published, I’ve begun this second chance chapter of my life with the release of Gold: Heart of a Warrior. I’m forever grateful to my publisher, Champagne Book Group, for providing me with this opportunity to share my writing with the world once more. I’m excited to announce that editing has begun on A Warrior’s Peace, book two in my Gold series! I’m also working on a short story holiday collection of modern-day fairytales, a fallen angel romantic suspense, a magical realism retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, and a nonfiction book about the creative path. I’m so thankful to have my creatress back as my companion and look forward to her guiding me for years to come.
Eden Robins believes in second chances. She’s been lucky enough to have a few in her life and knows there’s a magic in seizing the moment to try again. As a mentor, her heart’s purpose is to guide people into living as their full, innate, creative potential. As a writer, her heart leads her to inspire readers through her tales. Creating stories about people courageously living, loving, and experiencing life true to themselves, no matter how messy it gets, are the ones Eden wants to write and will keep writing for you…and for her. Connect with Eden at https://linktr.ee/edenrobins and check out her blog, Living the Path, https://awholeheartedme.com/blog
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
The hidden history of the powerful feline ally to Death’s new North American intern is finally revealed in author D.C. Gomez’s “The Origins of Constantine: An Intern Diaries Novella”.
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The Synopsis
A feisty cat. A moody God. And a friendship to last through all time.
Every hero has an origin story. The infamous five-thousand-year-old talking cat, Constantine, from the Intern Diaries, is no exception. Even in his early beginnings as a lowly tom-cat, Constantine had spunk. His sense of justice had a way of overtaking his common sense.
Constantine wasn’t one to back away from a fight, even if he killed him. To defend his friends, Constantine would do anything.
* The Origins of Constantine is a humorous Urban Fantasy/Alternative History Novella, part of the Intern Diaries Series. If you enjoy Constantine’s snarky remarks and over-the-top attitude, you are going to love this trip down memory lane to the rise of the first Egyptian empire where Gods still roam the earth.
The Review
This was a fast-paced and fun read. The author has expertly woven fantasy and historical fiction/alternative fiction elements. The rich character dynamics and humor that the main series this novella stems from were profoundly present in the narrative, and the balance the author found in the world-building and character development was perfectly executed here.
The fast-paced novella and the entertaining story found in both the mythos and history of the story were great to see unfold on the page. The dynamics between Constantine the Cat and Anubis were electric, and the narrative’s setting added to the historical significance of this series overall.
The Verdict
Memorable, fast-paced, and engaging author D.C. Gomez’s “The Origins of Constantine” is a must-read novella. The funny exchanges Constantine shares with Bob, Anubis, and more and the depth of mythos that the author delves into make this a gripping story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
D. C. Gomez is a fast-talking, extra-quirky Dominican with a dark sense of humor.
A long time ago, she used to enjoy long walks at the park and long days under the sun. Unfortunately, due to a mysterious condition, she is now allergic to those pesky UV rays. Rumor has it that her true nature is coming out and her vampirism is now showing. But don’t fear my friend, she doesn’t bite (much…).
Now she has a legit medical condition to hide indoors and indulged her passions of reading, sometimes cooking, and of course writing. DC writes in multiple genres from Urban Fantasy, Contemporary Lit, YA, Children’s Books, and even Devotionals. Her dark sense of humor and infatuation for action/adventure can be found in many of her books.
As a self-proclaim serial-hobbyist, her passions expand to podcasting as well as live hosting. You can find DC every Monday night interviewing a new author on her podcast Inside the Minds of Authors. If you enjoy a more active experience, catch her online live on her Amazon Channel – The Book Corner. Where she features authors releasing books within the next 90 days.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Four authors bring a unique collection of folklore with a modern twist in the book “Dark Tales of Whimsy”.
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The Synopsis
Dark Tales of Whimsy
Dark Tales of Whimsy is a collection of four short stories which weave elements of folklore with modern influences, engaging readers with tales of danger, curses, and more than a little mischief. This collection also includes illustrations by Oz Osborn.
Tooth, written by Simone Le Roux
In her short, Tooth, Simone LeRoux introduces us to Peg, who is feeling the pressure of surviving tooth to tooth. Join Peg and her ambitious cousin, Orla, as they aim to evade the woeful fate of Tooth Fairies who break the rules.
Anti-Cupid, written by Carlotta Cosmai
In Carlotta Cosmai’s story of love, we follow dead-beat husband and father, Cupid. In time, his arrows have been replaced by an enchanted smart phone, and his desires have become sleazy and self-serving. Follow his daughter, Pleasure, as she tries to bring true love back to Rome.
Little Miss Muffet Meets Anansi The Spider, written by Remy Fernandes
It’s been a while since ‘The Spider Incident,’ when Missy lost her foot from the bite. Now, she has grown to adulthood and landed a job at the Ice Cream Hut at the zoo. When her lunch break is interrupted by a talkative spider, Missy finds herself in a deal with a hungry, eight-legged intruder, whose antics could cost Muffet more than her job.
Three’s Last Stand, written by Alyssa Blackmon
In Alyssa Blackmon’s re-telling, we meet Three, the brick house-maker, who now has spent years being hunted by the big bad werewolf and his turned brothers. The day has come that Three can finally find closure with his brothers, and gain vengeance on the wolf.
The Review
One of the most challenging genres to break into is the retelling genre, which involves taking classic tales and giving them a fresh spin. Yet, in this collection, the authors have done just that, taking some of the world’s most iconic myths and legends and providing a unique, adult, and engaging spin. The amount of world-building that each tale can incorporate in such a short time is fantastic, and the haunting atmosphere that each story provides brings about that dark fairytale feeling that the collection aims to provide.
This was a short story collection driven by character dynamics. The heart of this collection was the way each story provided a unique, vulnerable, yet impressive protagonist to stand behind and a worthy problem to overcome. The chilling take on the black market and illegal thefts of children’s teeth regarding the lore of the tooth fairy was such an inspiring twist in the first tale and brought a standard of dark whimsy that each story thereafter lived up to.
The Verdict
“Dark Tales of Whimsy” is a must-read short story collection that is captivating, enthralling, and memorable. The chilling adult storylines and unique twists on iconic fairytales made this compelling collection richly developed and mesmerizing to behold. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman embracing her growing powers must find a way to battle her destiny in author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame”, the second book in the Scottish Scrolls series.
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The Synopsis
Mckenna O’Dwyer knows she’s impulsive. Sometimes reckless. She also knows she’s a witch and keeps reincarnating as one, for reasons only her mother, Abby, can help her fully understand.
After weeks of searching, mother and daughter finally reunite—just as Elizabeth Dunlop’s prophecy states—and Abby is keen on helping Mckenna get a firm grasp on her abilities. She teaches her the proper way to channel elemental magic…but Mckenna soon discovers there’s a shortcut, something Cillian fully supports if it means getting quicker, more powerful results.
At first, Mckenna will do anything to thwart the High Priestess once and for all, before her powers are used to wipe out billions of souls. But the white horse Eachna’s devastating vision of Mother Nature continues to haunt her. Is that the future awaiting them if the Scottish Scrolls aren’t fulfilled?
Which is the lesser evil?
Enthralling, passionate, and with twists you won’t see coming, Mckenna’s magical education begins in book II of The Scottish Scrolls.
The Review
The author has recaptured what made book one in the Scottish Scrolls series so beloved and upped the ante with more action and magic than ever before. While book one laid the foundation for this series, book two fully explores the larger magical and mythical universe and the protagonist’s growing powers.
The vivid detail that went into the story, as well as the character dynamics and the fast-paced atmosphere, allowed for, at times, a harrowing yet compelling narrative. The thoughtful and creative approach to Celtic history and mythology was perfectly crafted. It was also great to see the back and forth of the protagonist and her mother in their growing relationship.
The Verdict
Harrowing, adventurous, and mythological author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame” is a must-read YA urban fantasy with a twist on supernatural storytelling. The stunning atmosphere captures the love so many have for the Celtic people’s history, culture, and mythos, and the twists in the story will keep readers breathless. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Katrina Tortorici Anglehart is an award-winning author from Montreal, with a multilingual prowess in English, French, Italian, and “Spanglish”. A dedicated academic, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a graduate certificate in Scriptwriting, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.
Inspired by the wizarding world, the land of Narnia, and parallel planes, she penned The Wise One, inviting readers to connect with nature and its ever-present magic. Her exploration of the landscapes and folklore of Ireland and Scotland greatly influenced her debut YA urban fantasy, marking the inception of The Scottish Scrolls series.
K.T. Anglehart is a passionate advocate for bunnies, thanks to her late Netherland Dwarf, Magic—the inspiration behind her imprint, The Magic Dwarf Press. When she’s not writing or diving into magical reads, she revels in hiking, antiquing, and Netflix binges alongside her high school-sweetheart-turned-husband, Andy. They currently live in Toronto with their three pets: Nessie, a mysterious rescue dog from Puerto Rico, and their whimsical bunnies, Onyx and Stirling.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A clash of the past and present leads a powerful magician and Wiccan high priest to challenge the complex notions of love itself in author W.L. Hawkin’s “To Dance with Destiny”, the fifth book in the Hollystone Mysteries Book series.
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The Synopsis
Twin wolves howled beneath a turquoise crescent moon, their bushy manes wild and ruffled and knotted by the winds of change. “It’s us. You over my heart, and me beside you. It’s our destiny.”
In the captivating sequel of To Kill a King, ancient magic collides with modern trickery, as a gifted magician and Wicca high priest embarks on a thrilling journey, defying the boundaries of time to challenge the very fabric of destiny. This gripping urban fantasy novel follows Estrada who, armed with extraordinary powers, ventures into the past hoping to alter Michael Stryker’s future. A maelstrom of unforeseen events unfolds, weaving an intricate web of chaos that changes the course of history itself. For in the intricate tapestry of time, even the most well-intentioned actions can have devastating consequences.
While attempting to prevent the tragic outcome of To Render a Raven, Estrada struggles with the complexities of love, archaeologist Sorcha O’Hallorhan slips into her own time warp with a woman she once adored, and Conall Ceol, an Iron Age Druid bard, walks into the future to challenge Michael Stryker for Estrada’s attention.
DESTINY IS A SEDUCTIVE, YET WICKED, DANCER.
WOULD YOU CARE TO YOU DANCE?
#LGBTQ+ #urbanfantasy #thriller
The Review
As a longtime fan of history, mythology, and fantasy, the author’s narrative really spoke to me. The way the author was able to build upon themes and storylines so flawlessly from previous books in the series while also building upon new concepts and ideas was fantastic to see come to life on the page. The erotic element of the novel kept the tension heated and the imagery passionately written, engaging the reader to understand the characters on a deeper and more personal level.
This was a brilliant read, thanks in large part to the fantastic character development and the powerful blend of mythos and magic. The added combination of both fantasy and sci-fi thanks to the time-travel elements of the narrative and the complex and emotional development of Estrada as a protagonist kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to delve deeper and deeper into the action-packed time-travel adventure. Add to this brilliant LGBTQ themes and storylines and readers will be in for quite the treat.
The Verdict
Memorable, captivating, and engaging, author W.L. Hawkin’s “To Dane with Destiny” is a must-read erotic fantasy meets sci-fi thriller you won’t want to miss. The twists and turns in the narrative and the shocking revelations not only heighten the anticipation and passionate moments between the characters but the direction this series is taking as a whole, which is just so thrilling and gripping. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today or grab your copy on October 31, 2023!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
W. L. Hawkin writes adventurous cross-genre fiction charged with “myth, magic, and mayhem” from her home in the Pacific Northwest.
Her urban fantasy series, the Hollystone Mysteries, features a coven of Vancouver witches who solve murders using their wits, ritual magic, and a little help from the gods. To Charm a Killer, To Sleep with Stones, To Render a Raven, To Kill a King, and To Dance with Destiny, follow stage magician and Wicca high priest, Estrada, as he endeavors to save his friends while working through his own personal issues.
Her standalone novel, Lure: Jesse & Hawk (2022) won a National Indie Excellence Award, a Gold Reader’s Choice award from Connections E-magazine, a Crowned Heart Review from InD’tale Magazine, and placed as a finalist in The UK Wishing Shelf Book Awards. Lure is a small-town romantic suspense story set on a Chippewa Reservation in the American Midwest near the fictional town of Lure River.
As an intuitive writer, Wendy captures what she sees and hears on the page and allows her muses to guide her through the creative process. In an upcoming book, Writing with your Muse: a Guide to Creative Inspiration, she explains her writing process and offers tips and techniques to help writers get their words on the page.
Wendy is a book reviewer and publisher with a background in Indigenous Studies and Humanities. Born in Toronto, Canada, she completed a BA in Indigenous Studies at Trent University, then moved to B.C. where she completed diplomas in Humanities at SFU and taught high school for several years.
She also spent a year as a relief lighthouse keeper, enjoying the rugged isolation of the West Coast, and blogging her adventures at http://lifeonthebclights.blogspot.com Her experiences color “To Render a Raven.”
An introvert, Wendy does most of her musing while walking her yellow lab through the forested trails of B.C. “I continue to explore my ancestry, often in my writing. I love nature, history, archaeology, myths and magic, and feel I was born in the wrong century. If I could, I’d travel back in time to experience cultures long since changed or vanished.”
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A mission to learn the truth turns into a mission for resurrection as a widow fights inhuman forces of nature to reunite with her long lost beloved in author Myron Edwards’s “Julie’s Odyssey: Alpha and Omega”, the third book in The Cypress Mysteries series.
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The Synopsis
Julie Cole, homemaker, mother, and widow is unconvinced that her husband’s death was an accident. To discover what happened Julie returns to the one place she said she would never go back to, the Island of Cyprus. To aid her in her task, she enlists the help of Peter Shaw, Richard’s friend from the first Gulf War.
As the two begin their enquiries, they meet with the mysterious Christoulides, who shows them the reason for Richard’s demise and his real identity. No longer is it a simple matter of finding out what happened to Richard, this is now a mission to bring him back.
But in order to do this Julie has to work with her nemesis the Goddess Aphrodite who she sees as the protagonist in Richard’s demise. Together all three must travel to the depths of the Underworld to release Richard before his soul is trapped there forever.
Standing in their way is the Lord of the Underworld Hades and a host of creatures and beasts as well as one very determined hunter whose sole task is to destroy Julie. Into this maelstrom of chaos and confusion and possible certain death, Julie and her companions must travel. Their first task being to retrieve the Gorgon’s blood, which has the power of resurrection, but can they do it in time to save Richard?
The Review
The author did such an incredible job of building upon the other two books in the series and doubling down on the rich mythology and culture of the series. The imagery and atmosphere of the narrative immediately grab the reader, as they are drawn further and further into the depths of the underworld, and readers are treated to a whole new host of mythological figures that test the limits of fate.
The heart of this narrative was the rich character development of the novel. The new perspective of Julie as the protagonist of this narrative showcases the depth of the impact that the first two books had on her and the family she and Richard were building together. The bond that she and Peter build as they seek out the means of finally bringing Richard back to life is incredible, and the gripping mythology will draw these characters to new heights, giving readers a fresh perspective of classic characters and storylines.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, imaginative, and entertaining, author Myron Edwards’s “Julie’s Odyssey: Alpha and Omega” is a must-read mythological thriller and fantasy novel you won’t want to miss. The twists and turns in this adventure and the shocking final revelation as the journey comes to its emotional end will leave readers hanging onto the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Born in 1952 in Orsett, Essex in England, the youngest son to Welsh parents Iris and Bill Edwards. Upon leaving school, he went into the travel industry, where he travelled the world, working in travel agencies, tour operators and airlines for some 30 years. In 1976 Myron began freelance writing for BBC, radio and television, his credits include the Two Ronnies, Week Endings, and the News Huddlines. In 1980, he joined JWT advertising, as a copywriter writing his first TV commercial for dog food inside 10 days. His love for the creative never left him and in 1987 he created Tubewalking, a new map concept, to help people get around London easier on foot, which still operates today. In 1990 he married Niki, whose family background is Greek Cypriot. On a family trip to Cyprus, visiting Aphrodite’s Rock for the first time, the beginnings of his passion to write the story of Mistress of the Rock came into fruition. Moving his family in 2005 to Cyprus to live, gave him the opportunity to write, as during this time he worked on campaigns for TV and Radio in an advertising agency in Limassol. The first manuscript of the book was completed in 2007, released by a local publisher it had a limited audience, but was well received by those who had read it. He has now completed the sequel and is working on the third part of this story. Myron has three children, two sons and one daughter all grown up.
