I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
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A young woman discovers her hidden ancestry and connection to powerful magic that could lead her to her destiny…or lead her to darkness in author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Wise One”, the first book in The Scottish Scrolls series!
The Synopsis
Mckenna’s never thought much of her nightmares, but on her seventeenth birthday, a vivid dream of burning at the stake awakens her dormant abilities, thrusting her into a world where faeries are real, spirits hold a grudge, and a High Priestess obsessed with a 16th-century prophecy is tracking her every move.
Now, her overprotective dads, Seán and Andre, are forced to tell her the truth—they know who her birth mother is, and her life is not the surrogate story she’s always been told. Abigail, Mckenna’s mom, is some sort of mystic, and Mckenna a Wise One.
Whatever the hell that means.
With the help of a persistent little wren and company of a newfound friend, Mckenna journeys to Ireland in search of her mother and real answers. Along the way, she learns to harness her innate magic and trust her intuition, as best she can anyway—Cillian, a kind and passionate delegate who crosses her path, is proving much harder to read.
Only her mother could truly help her halt her ill fate and prepare her for what’s to come . . . before she gives in to the darkness she knows is buried deep within.
Author K.T. Anglehart expertly weaves a story set in Ireland that is both timeless and unique, a perfect cross-market read for those searching for the next endearing urban fantasy classic.
The Review
This was a highly creative, inventive, and engaging new urban fantasy novel. The way the author is able to blend the Celtic mythos with modern-day New Age environmentalism was fascinating to see come to life on the page, as was the balance of teen angst with the emotional hardship that comes with a child learning their origins and the discovery of a parent they never knew existed. The imagery that the author’s writing style brought to life in this book allowed the Ireland setting to really thrive and flourish on the page, bringing the reader to this beautiful country.
The amazing character development with the thrilling magical storytelling really made this story thrive and develop naturally. The use of Celtic mythology that brought everything from fairies and spirits to magic wielders and ancient prophecies to life was an inspired choice and allowed the author to build a strong backstory to elevate the character development of the protagonist, as well as her fathers and the companions she brings along with way.
The Verdict
Memorable, adrenaline-fueled, and entertaining, author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Wise One” is a must-read urban fantasy read and a great start to the “Scottish Scrolls” series! The twists and turns that this story takes, the unique setting (90s era Ireland), as well as the strong character development, allowed the magical and supernatural elements of the story to shine brightly. 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.
Two men from different worlds are drawn together and caught in a battle far more ancient and deadly than they could ever imagine in author Liz Sauco’s “Lost Blades”, the first book in the Blades of the Goddess Series.
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The Synopsis
As the world ends once more, the Goddess chooses who she will wield against Abomination
In Lyndiniam: A street thief attempts a heist far more ambitious than anything he has done before, but due to circumstances outside his control, finds himself locked up for crimes he both did and did not commit. A strange woman with abilities Jamirh does not understand breaks him out, and he finds himself on the run – fleeing to Romanii, a country he thought no longer existed.
In Ni Fon: A shinobi is banished by the Empress for killing her daughter and his fiancée, Princess Hotaru. This is a ploy, however – Takeshi is still working for Ni Fon despite the murder, trying to learn information about a rebellion against the Rose Empire that Ni Fon will be able to leverage to regain their own freedom.
Though thousands of miles apart, both Jamirh and Takeshi find themselves pulled into an ancient struggle between forces far beyond anything they have ever dreamed of, whether they want to be or not.
Lost Blades is the first book in Blades of the Goddess, a high fantasy series with urban and sci-fi elements. This series will appeal to all ages, especially fans of the Shannara Chronicles, the Chronicles of Amber, and the Heralds of Valdemar.
The Review
This was such a compelling and exhilarating read. The author did an incredible job of creating a rich and vastly developed fantasy world. The detail the author went into when developing these lands and the scenes in each chapter really made the action and character interactions that developed feel much more vivid and alive on the page.
To me, the heart of this narrative rested in the dynamic character development and incredible mythology the author developed. The way the author was able to infuse so many elements of sci-fi, high fantasy, and urban fantasy all at once made this book so gripping in its delivery. The various cultures and backgrounds that these characters come from and the way each protagonist plays into this ancient battle of wills will instantly draw the reader into the story.
The Verdict
Memorable, entertaining, and enthralling, author Liz Sauco’s “Lost Blades is a must-read high fantasy novel of 2023. The chilling yet engaging nature of the larger elements of destiny and fate that play into the character’s journey and the incredible depth of world-building and mythos that made this world feel alive and new all at once will have readers eager for the next entry in this brand new fantasy series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on September 12th, 2023!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I’ve always loved stories. The more fantastical, the better. Unicorns were an early favorite of mine; I must have watched The Last Unicorn a thousand times as a child, driving my parents to near insanity. I devoured every book I could get my hands on – trips to Barnes and Noble were hotly anticipated.
Anime (thanks, Toonami!) and video games were other favorites. I watched Sailor Moon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Gundam Wing, played Zelda and Mario. Mythology also grabbed me, made me think of how other cultures viewed the world.
And eventually… I began telling my own stories. I’m grateful to have found readers like you who want to explore the world I’ve created, and walk a few miles with the characters I love. Thank you!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
In a dystopian future in which the world has been ravaged by a war between mankind and witches, and subsequently a zombie outbreak, one witch must take on a deadly assignment to find a potential cure for humanity in author DC Gomez’s “Recruited”, the first book in The Elisha & Elijah Chronicles.
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The Synopsis
Zombies. Necromancer-Kitty. How can a witch be bored with this combination?
Nobody knows who did the most damage, the witches or the humans. But the results are the same, the world is destroyed. The war made it easier for the spread of the virus, and even more zombies now roam the world.
With the war over, Elisha enjoys her quiet life watching her familiar control zombies for landscaping duties. Yeah, she is truly bored to death.
It’s no wonder, when her mortal enemies knocked at her door with a job offer she is willing to entertain it. Curiosity can be deadly, even to a powerful witch. But is Elisha ready to follow this mission through?
* Recruited is book one in the Urban Fantasy/ Post-apocalyptic Series The Elisha & Elijah Chronicles. Recruited takes us sixty-five years in the future where a terrible plague follow by an even more destructive war has left the world in shambles. Now with a potential cure to save the human race, the only one they can turn to is their own nemesis.
The Review
This was definitely one of the most unique twists on a zombie apocalypse tale with a magical dystopian setting. The rich world-building and fast pace of the novel really immerse the reader into this setting, and the pacing also allows for more action to take place which establishes the protagonist’s strength and heroism. The tension between the humans and witches is palpable, as the opening chapter of the book explores the chilling nature of the war and the animosity that still exists between them.
The character development and witty banter of the characters made this novel what it is today. The story allows Elisha as a character to shine, not only revealing her gifts but her humorous attitude with her ally Elijah and the people she meets on the way. The power of the character’s arc is something that is both fun and engaging, allowing the reader to instantly get lost in Elisha’s world with ease.
The Verdict
Action-packed, fast-paced, and entertaining, author DC Gomez’s “Recruited” is a must-read dystopian fantasy and sci-fi novel that will keep readers enthralled as the story progresses. With a cliffhanger ending and a brilliant balance found between the magic of the witches and the mythological background, the author taps into, this is one fantastic read you won’t want to miss. 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.
She used to enjoy long walks at the park and all that fun outdoors activities; unfortunately, due to a mysterious condition she is now allergic to the sun.
Rumor has it, that her true nature is coming out and her vampirism is now showing. If you would like to learn more about her, or join her at an event, check out her website at dcgomez-author.com. We promise she doesn’t bite (much…).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman running a taco truck discovers a world of magick and dragons and must fight interdimensional demonic entities to save the world in author Martha Carr’s upcoming Kickstarter novel, “Eamon: Book 1 from Queen of the Flightless Dragons”.
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The Synopsis
A girl in a taco truck who finds some dragons & fights interdimensional demons in Austin, Texas.
The Review
This was a unique opportunity for me as a reviewer, as not only is this book not released yet, it’s not even available for preorder yet. The author has an upcoming Kickstarter starting for this book, and let me just say, readers, are not going to want to miss out on their opportunity to support this book.
This book had everything that fans of urban fantasy, sci-fi, and epic fantasy could ever ask for. Dark magic assassins, inter-dimensional prison systems, family drama, and of course dragons. The rich mythology and world-building that the author built was so fun to read, as the author honed in on this wonderful balance of real-world settings and daily life with out-of-this-world fantasy storytelling and classic tropes in the genre like the hidden world within the world.
For me, the heart of this book rested in the character development the author had and the rich mythology that was developed. The wit and charm of protagonist Willow and the family history and drama with her grandfather and mother were great to get lost in, as were the politics and drama within the magic community such as magical “borrowers” and the distrust that exists within their world. These seemingly small yet powerful character traits and moments made the larger-than-life threats and forces that they faced more connected for readers to enjoy.
The Verdict
If Guardians of the Galaxy or Star Wars were to mesh with The Magicians and The Witcher, you would be left with “Eamon: Book 1 of the Flightless Dragons” by Martha Carr. The twists and turns in the narrative and open-ended ending will have readers eager for more from the author and this new fantasy series, and the blend of humor and dark gritty magical storytelling made this a compelling read, so be sure to sign up for the upcoming Kickstarter for this amazing book and help support a brand new fantasy series you won’t be able to put down.
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I started writing at 30 years old with a newborn and a fresh divorce. I had tried everything the way my family wanted me to do it – and I saw where that got me. I was a successful stockbroker who dreaded every day of work. I just couldn’t picture myself still in that chair at 60. Well… Here I am at 63 and boy, am I glad I walked away.
Sure, the money was tight for a long time but when I look back at the past 33 years here’s what I see: Stringer for the Washington Post, national columnist with 4 million readers a month, contributor to almost every major news outlet, co-creator of the Oriceran Universe, author of best-selling UF series, The Leira Chronicles – and now a newbie on Kickstarter with a great book. Like I said, this book is for all of us who find the courage to just be ourselves on any given day and want to make the most of it. Over and over again. More adventures to follow.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
The search for a traitor and the culprit behind a deadly attack will bring back together two assassins from separate orders as they stand between the all-out war in author D.C. Gomez’s “The Traitor”, the second book in The Order’s Assassin Series.
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The Synopsis
Witches, Demons, and Shifters are all landing in Salem. But who do you trust?
Eric’s search for Rafael, the Order’s betrayer, is leading to a dead end. Running out of time, he decides to enlist the help of some old acquaintances in Salem’s underground.
In the meantime, the Garcia Clan, the deadliest of all the shifter assassin families in the world, has been attacked. Tensions are rising as Sasha is forced back on the field to investigate and bring the culprit to justice.
With both the Order of Witches and the Garcia Clan searching for the truth, Eric and Sasha are the only ones standing between a full-on blood bath.
* The Traitor is book two in the Urban Fantasy Series The Order’s Assassin. Our favorite witch and former cop, Eric from the Intern Diaries Series, has a new job with the Order of Witches. With no way out, he must continue his mission to clean out the Order, before he is the one hunted down.
The Review
This was a rich and dynamic fantasy world the author has crafted. As a reader who comes into this series after having read the Intern Diaries, the series set before this one, I was already enthralled with the author’s ability to craft memorable narratives that skirted both the YA and NA genres. The way the author is able to build upon the world she has helped craft and infuse it with even more magic and mystery was great to see. The tension in the atmosphere of this book underscores the importance of the missions each protagonist is forced to undergo and allows the striking tone of the narrative to shine through.
The heart of this story rests in the character development and action-packed narrative. The chemistry between Eric and Sasha is palpable, and the evolution of Eric’s character from the Intern Diaries series into this spinoff series is great to behold. The rich cinematic quality of the author’s writing style allows readers to really see in their minds the setting and action come to life as if the novel held the quality of a great CW supernatural drama series.
The Verdict
Magical, adrenaline-fueled, and cinematic, author D.C. Gomez’s “The Traitor” is a fantastic urban fantasy story and a great addition to the Order’s Assassin Series. The chemistry between the cast of characters and the thriller aspect of the narrative will keep readers glued to the pages of this book, and the twists and turns will have readers eager for more from this incredible author. 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 USA Today Bestselling Author, born in the Dominican Republic and grew up in Salem, Massachusetts. She study film and television at New York University. After college she joined the US Army, and proudly served for four years.
Those experiences shaped her quirky sense of humor. D.C. has a love for those who served and the families that support them. She currently lives in the quaint city of Wake Village, Texas, with her furry roommate, Chincha.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A teen boy starts to look into the mysteries of the small town defined by its prison system after discovering a hidden tunnel in the basement of a home, and in doing so uncovers dark histories and hidden secrets that will terrify him to his core in the author Shannon Felton’s “The Prisoners of Stewartville”.
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The Synopsis
Stewartville. A town living in the shadow of the prisons that drive its economy. Haunted by the ghosts of its past. Cursed by the dark secrets hidden beneath. A town so entwined with the prisons waiting outside the city limits that it’s impossible to imagine one without the other, or to ever imagine escaping either.
When a teenage boy digs into the history of the town, he discovers a tunnel system beneath Stewartville, passageways filled with dark secrets. Secrets leading not to freedom, but to unrelenting terror.
Stewartville. Where the convicts aren’t the only prisoners.
The Review
This was a truly captivating and masterful read. The heavy atmosphere of the narrative kept readers engaged right from the beginning. The rich mythos that the author develops for this story and the evil that infects this town (or is it the other way around?), really do a remarkable job of keeping the reader’s hearts pumping.
The heart of this short horror read is actually the balance of character development and the book’s setting. The thing that stuck out to me was how the people of this town felt very much like a by-product of the infestation that this town had become, as it not only seemed to draw in people who are typically deemed by society to live “on the fringes” but would transform people into their worst nightmares through fear and terror. The protagonist’s story and his confrontation with the evil of this town reflected the status of the town altogether, which became a central character in its own right.
The Verdict
Horrifying, chilling, and entertaining, author Shannon Felton’s “The Prisoners of Stewartville” is a must-read occult fiction meets paranormal & urban fantasy novel. The twists and turns this narrative takes and the larger discussion on the prison system and how society treats those living on the fringe kept me invested in this gripping story, as did the shocking twist final pages of this instant horror classic. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Shannon Felton lives in Buckeye, Arizona with her husband, their four children, and three dogs. The Prisoners of Stewartville is her debut novella.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A powerful vampire seeking the truth behind a betrayal and hoping to atone for his past meets a grad student and begins a powerful romance just as a pack of vicious vampires begins to descend on their town in author R.L. Merrill’s “Sundowners”, the first book in the series of the same name.
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The Synopsis
From the author of the supernatural suspense series Gifted (Healer, Connection) comes a new queer paranormal romance series.
Praise for Connection: “The romance element is complemented nicely by the relentless action and adventure throughout, creating an emotionally intense and page-turning narrative…A fast-paced and fun fusion of supernatural romance and mainstream thriller.” ~Kirkus
Vampire Creed Lowell drifts from town to town working with the elderly as a night nurse and looking to avenge his harrowing past. His youth and vitality make him a favorite of his patients and his gifts bring them peace. At long last he’s arrived in the place where he hopes to find the truth about those who betrayed him…but first he finds an unexpected love with a man who might understand him—or end him.
Grad student Roman San Angelo is struggling to handle his courses, teaching schedule, and research for his dissertation on an obscure cult. He spends every spare moment with his beloved yet demanding grandmother Frances who’s recently moved to an assisted living facility—and he’s fascinated by her night nurse, who is able to bring out the inner light which had faded during her battle with dementia. Something about Creed doesn’t add up, however, Roman finds himself fighting an undeniable attraction. His concerns multiply when Roman discovers a connection between Creed and a bizarre series of vampire-wannabe assaults in the area. A moment of weakness leads to a night of passion between them, and the promise of something more, and yet Roman can’t shake his concern that Creed is not what he seems.
Creed knows better than to bring a mortal into his world, even one who could help him find the link between the pack of violent vampires preying on the people of Santa Cruz and Creed’s past. When he discovers Creed’s secret, Roman is ready to step outside his comfort zone and accept everything a life with a vampire entails, and when Creed disappears, Roman will go to the ends of the earth to find the man who brought the light back to his grandmother and the warmth back to his own heart.
*This book contains violence and sexual content. It is meant for audiences 18+
The Review
For any readers or cinematic aficionados out there who know their vampire history, the book immediately serves up some great callbacks to iconic vampire stories, with the narrative taking place in Santa Cruz, CA, the same location as the iconic The Lost Boys film. Yet this is no retelling, as the author ups the stakes and delivers an LGBTQ+ driven urban fantasy and supernatural horror narrative with an adult romance spin. The mystery and suspense of the narrative were so engaging, and the rich setting of Santa Cruz played such a unique and in-depth role in the narrative.
Yet it was the beautiful balance of mythology and character growth that really drew me into this story. The heated and passionate romance that bloomed between Creed and Roman was felt powerfully throughout this story, while the rich mythos that the author created allowed for some really unique and original takes on the vampire lore overall, allowing for a beautiful fusion of LGBTQ+ romance and supernatural urban fantasy.
The Verdict
Adrenaline-fueled, passionate, and entertaining, author R.L. Merrill’s “Sundowners” is the perfect first book in a brand new LGBTQ Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy series. The unique take on the vampire lore we’ve all come to know, as well as dashes of twists and turns that include cults, magic, and heated romances will have readers flocking to read more of this incredible author’s work. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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R.L. Merrill has a new MM paranormal romance out: Sundowners. And there’s a giveaway.
Vampire Creed Lowell drifts from town to town working with the elderly as a night nurse and looking to avenge his harrowing past. His youth and vitality make him a favorite of his patients and his gifts bring them peace. At long last he’s arrived in the place where he hopes to find the truth about those who betrayed him…but first he finds an unexpected love with a man who might understand him—or end him.
Grad student Roman San Angelo is struggling to handle his courses, teaching schedule, and research for his dissertation on an obscure cult. He spends every spare moment with his beloved yet demanding grandmother Frances who’s recently moved to an assisted living facility—and he’s fascinated by her night nurse, who is able to bring out the inner light which had faded during her battle with dementia. Something about Creed doesn’t add up, however, Roman finds himself fighting an undeniable attraction. His concerns multiply when Roman discovers a connection between Creed and a bizarre series of vampire-wannabe assaults in the area. A moment of weakness leads to a night of passion between them, and the promise of something more, and yet Roman can’t shake his concern that Creed is not what he seems.
Creed knows better than to bring a mortal into his world, even one who could help him find the link between the pack of violent vampires preying on the people of Santa Cruz and Creed’s past. When he discovers Creed’s secret, Roman is ready to step outside his comfort zone and accept everything a life with a vampire entails, and when Creed disappears, Roman will go to the ends of the earth to find the man who brought the light back to his grandmother and the warmth back to his own heart.
“Well, Mr. Lowell, I think we have everything we need. Your references all check out, and you passed your background check. Can you start on Friday?”
What a relief! I smiled and leaned against the wall of my dingy hotel room. Thank goodness for excellent references. I inhaled the combination mildew/chlorine smell caused by the permanent dampness from the ocean and the indoor swimming pool below my room, glad . This was the break I needed, or my current accommodations would soon go from bad to worse.
“Thank you, yes. What time does the evening shift start?” I kept my fingers crossed while I waited for the answer.
“Six o’clock. Just come to the front desk and our evening supervisor will get you set up. Lexi’s great. She’ll show you the ropes.”
“Wonderful. Thank you for this opportunity.”
“We should be thanking you, Mr. Lowell. You’re overqualified for the position, and we’ve had a difficult time keeping our evening staff. I hope this works out for the both of us.”
I thanked Yvonne, the Human Resources director, once more before disconnecting. Then the victory dance commenced.
“Did you hear that, Rhonda? We’re in!”
My red Doberman rested her jaw on her paws and made an old lady noise, indicating that she’d rather be napping than dancing.
I would not be thwarted, however. I danced a West Side Story routine across the room to the kitchenette and reached into the fridge with panache. There was one last bag of A-positive that I’d been sipping on since arriving in Santa Cruz, and now I could finish it off since I’d have a steady supply in just two days’ time. Not that I needed much—especially not when I was working—but it was important to never let my energy stores deplete. It affected my judgement and my ability to do the work that was so desperately needed.
I did a spin and a box step before kicking my leg out, and throwing my arms back in a layout. Hopefully I’d find a patient who knew the old dances at Puesta Del Sol, my new place of employment. They were the most fun to work with.
I reached into my lone duffel bag, which contained seven sets of scrubs, a suit, three white t-shirts, a pair of jeans, a Harvard hoodie, two pairs of shoes, and a small photo album that contained cherished pictures of my parents and younger siblings. The rest of my belongings and resources were hidden in pre-paid storage facilities around the country for when I got desperate…or had to run.
My family was all gone now. My little sister was the last, and she’d passed away four months ago according to the hometown newspaper in Macon County, Georgia. I read every copy that I could get ahold of through the local libraries. The internet had been such a great invention. Even though I hadn’t been home in nearly forty years, I’d managed to keep tabs on everyone. They’d all lived mostly happy, satisfying lives and died of natural causes at advanced ages, which was the best I could have hoped for.
But now that I had no worry of repercussions for my family, I could finally seek out the truth.
Puesta Del Sol was hopefully the end of the line. The last assisted-living home where I’d worked in Albuquerque had led me here, to Santa Cruz, California. “Go west, young man,” turned out to be the advice I’d needed all along.
I was determined to find those responsible for sending me on this decades-long exile. It wouldn’t be long now. It was time to set things straight, and it seemed fitting to be back near where it all started.
March 2019
Two months later, the trail of promising leads had gone cold. Still, I loved my new life in California. I was surrounded by a competent and diverse staff at Puesta Del Sol that knew how to run a place of healing and hope with patients who were happy and well cared for. And I loved Santa Cruz. It was almost enough to make me consider letting go of the past.
What a great place for a guy like me. It was easy to fit into the college town that was also a magnet for transients, tourists, and folks who were followers of alternative lifestyles. Not only were there practitioners of Eastern religions and schools of thought, but also those who claimed to be creatures of the night, a holdover from the vampire craze that swept the area after a hit movie in the ’80s made them cool. I occasionally even found folks who didn’t mind a little role play.
My love of music meant I was a frequent guest of The Catalyst, a large music venue, bar, and eatery located downtown that drew fans from all over the Bay Area. One night they’d feature punk, the next rap, and sometimes even classic rock bands made their way to the club.
Tonight was a perfect opportunity to blend in as a lineup of alternative bands from the eighties was playing. I’d worn my black suit, skinny tie, and black Dr. Martens. I’d even slicked my dark auburn hair back and donned black eyeliner for the hell of it, the makeup highlighting my eyes, so blue they made people stop and stare. Of course, the rest of the package could also be to blame for that. My pale, freckled skin fit the role of a night walker perfectly to round out the look.
I made my way through the crowd to the bar and ordered a beer. A willing playmate soon appeared, and the game was on.
The young man, dressed in a velvet waistcoat and ruffled poet’s shirt, saw me approach the bar and immediately perked up. I took a swig of my beer and nodded at the Goth. When I moved away from the bar, I felt him at my back as I headed to a dark corner. Once there, I leaned against the wall and waited.
The young man approached with a sly smile, and I took it as an invitation. I reached for his shoulder, turned him around slowly, and pulled him back against my chest, enjoying the way his body fit against mine.
“I have your permission?” I whispered in the young man’s ear. “I promise you’ll enjoy it.”
The young man turned to face me and his eyes widened in surprise. “Here?”
I smiled at him and ran a finger down his neck, enjoying the way he shivered. The energy from his excitement would have been enough to nourish me, but I was feeling greedy tonight.
“Yeah, just um, be safe about it.”
I bathed him in a wave of calm. The manipulation of energy was effortless for me now. “You’re in good hands, my friend.” I turned him around and stopped him when he went to loosen his belt. “Relax, I’ve got you.”
I slid his long curly blond hair to the side. I had ways of making the experience pleasurable, so I poured energy into giving this guy one helluva good time, one he’d remember for years to come. He just wouldn’t remember that a vampire sank his teeth gently into his neck and took sustenance from his body.
Give unto them what they require.
Take only what you need to survive.
I would never forget what I’d been taught.
“Blessed be.”
After a few sips, I felt my playmate shudder against me and let out a satisfied moan. A few more pulls and his body tensed, gasped, and shuddered once more. It was nice to know I hadn’t lost my touch.
It had been a long time since I’d chanced feeding in public, but I felt safe here. Santa Cruz had welcomed me with open arms, and I wanted to stay.
The young man raised his arm and cupped the back of my head. He pressed his ass back against me, and I knew it was time to end this tryst.
“Thank you,” I whispered against his ear, and then pressed a kiss to his neck.
“I should be thanking you,” the guy said. “What’s your name?”
I disappeared into the crowd before the young man turned to look, and I was out of the club before he could wonder what happened.
I rarely drank blood—it was an infrequent need to maintain my existence as long as I had plenty of human energy to manipulate—and I always made sure my partner enjoyed it. But the act often left me feeling…empty. I worked hard to help others live a more satisfying life, and after all this time, I sometimes resented that I couldn’t pursue happiness of my own. I would have loved to take that young man home and enjoy more than just an Exchange. Someday I would find…someone. But not until it was safe. Not until I’d done what I came here to do.
Author Bio
“With a strong plot, an expertly crafted cast of supporting characters, and deep empathy, Merrill’s novel will keep readers hooked.” —Publishers Weekly review of Typhoon Toby.
Whether she’s writing contemporary romance featuring quirky and relatable characters or diving deep into the paranormal and supernatural to give readers a shiver, R.L. Merrill loves creating compelling stories that will stay with readers long after. Winner of the Kathryn Hayes “When Sparks Fly” Best Contemporary award for Hurricane Reese, and a Foreword INDIES finalist for Summer of Hush, Ro spends every spare moment improving her writing craft and striving to find that perfect balance between real-life and happily ever after.
She writes diverse and inclusive romance, contributes paranormal hilarity to Robyn Peterman’s Magic and Mayhem Universe, and pens horror-inspired music reviews for HorrorAddicts.net.
You can find her connecting with readers on social media, advocating for America’s youth, raising two brilliant kids, or headbanging at a rock show near her home in the San Francisco Bay Area!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
After surviving a kidnapping and a dangerous killer, a young woman who is able to dream walk into the past finds herself hunted by a man whom she had tried to help in the past, and she must take her most dangerous journey yet to fix the mistake she made in author JP McLean’s “Ghost Mark”, the second book in the Dark Dreams series.
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The Synopsis
Jane’s nightmares are back—and this time, they’ve unleashed a brutal killer.
Jane Walker’s nightmares aren’t imaginary—they’re glimpses into the traumatic past; and the past can be dangerous, especially now that Jane’s protective birthmarks are gone.
Worse, she’s no longer invisible within her dreams—and learns this the hard way while using her power to incriminate a ruthless killer. Inadvertently revealing her ghost form, she launches him on a relentless hunt to track her down.
Even more disturbing, Jane knows this man. She once tried to use her power to save him from injury, but instead set him on a path of violent crime. Now, he’s targeted the man she loves, and Jane must keep one step ahead of this cold-blooded assassin before he gets rid of Ethan permanently.
Jane has one last chance to fix the mistake that altered this man’s history, but that means taking her most dangerous dream journey yet—one from which she might never awaken.
Ghost Mark is the second installment of the Dark Dreams Series by JP McLean, an author whose writing the Ottawa Review of Books calls “relentless and original.”
The Review
This was such a powerful and engaging blend of occult horror and urban fantasy. The adrenaline-pumping, action-packed narrative does a great job of layering the story with tension and atmosphere. One thing that really stands out to me about the author’s work overall that really was represented greatly in this read was the way in which the author is able to incorporate these fantastic and powerful elements into a very gritty and realistic modern-day world. The unique way that the narrative fuels this relatable setting and makes the more “supernatural” elements of the characters and their story direction was terrific to see come to life.
That uniqueness also translated so well with the character development as well. The evolution of protagonist Jane and her powers was incredible to watch unfold over the course of this narrative. I also loved the multiple POVs that the author used, allowing readers a different perspective from each character and how they are impacted by the events happening to and around Jane. The themes of violence in an urban setting, the impact of violence on women and children at an early age, and the power of dreams felt so pronounced and natural to the world the author crafted together, making this a true gem of a novel.
The Verdict
Haunting, captivating, and entertaining, author JP McLean’s “Ghost Mark” is a must-read upcoming occult horror and urban fantasy read, and the perfect next chapter in the Dark Dreams series. The balance struck between character growth and world-building in this narrative was inspired, and the twists and turns that the story takes and the cliffhanger of an ending will have readers hanging onto the edge of their seats, eager for more from this incredible author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your book or grab your copy on November 1st, 2022!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
JP (Jo-Anne) McLean is a bestselling author of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers. She is a Global Book Award winner, a CIBA finalist, and has received honours from the Eric Hoffer Book Awards, the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, the National Indie Excellence Awards, the Whistler Independent Book Awards, and the Victoria Writers’ Society. Reviewers call her books addictive, smart and fun.
Raised in Toronto, Ontario, JP has lived in various parts of North America, from Mexico and Arizona to Alberta and Ontario. JP holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, is a certified scuba diver, an avid gardener, and a voracious reader. She had a successful career in Human Resources before turning her attention to writing.
JP lives with her husband on Denman Island, which is nestled between the coast of British Columbia and Vancouver Island.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her cooking dishes that look nothing like the recipe photos or arguing with weeds in the garden.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman discovers her dormant power as a witch and must use her gifts to stop a monstrous madman from unleashing the apocalypse on the world while trying to prevent her power from corrupting her soul in author Yasmine Maher’s “Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches”.
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The Synopsis
Master forbidden magic, destroy an immortal enemy, and prevent the apocalypse—all before college finals.
Echo Blackwood has no idea she’s a witch, but after supernatural beasts attack her sister’s wedding, she discovers her long-dormant magic, and she’s quickly catapulted into an impossible war.
The novice witch is the only one who can stop the immortal Jivar—but her magic hides a sinister secret. The dark arts run through her veins, and using their power could cost her soul.
Desperate to control her magic and uncover the truth about herself, Echo and her newfound allies must race against time to defeat Jivar before he unleashes his fury and destroys the world.
Can Echo use the powers of evil to save the world? Or will fighting fire with fire only end in her ruin?
Imbued with all the thrilling action and marvelous magic, Echo: The Curse Of The Blackwood Witches is a riveting and unforgettable read that will sweep you up and refuse to let you go.
The Review
The author did such an incredible job of crafting a memorable and captivating fantasy and paranormal read. The book immediately grabs the reader’s attention, balancing great character development and hinting at a challenging backstory with the horrors and thrills of the supernatural threat facing the protagonist and her new allies. The backstory and history of the cast of characters were so intricately detailed and did an amazing job of keeping the reader invested in the narrative.
Yet it was the wealth of mythology and world-building the author did that kept me invested in this story overall. The way the author built up the family drama in Echo’s life and childhood and made it feel just as impactful as the apocalyptic nature of the threat they all faced was a great sign of the author’s creativity and focus on character-driven narrative. The journey that led Echo to discover her dark powers, her connection to the villainous Jivar, and the struggle to balance her hope to save the world with the destructive aspect of her gifts made this such an intriguing plot.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, entertaining, and action-packed, author Yasmine Maher’s “Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches” is a must-read urban fantasy novel of 2022. The drama, adrenaline-fueled narrative, and shocking twists and turns in the story will have readers hanging off of 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
Yasmine Maher is a fantasy author, copywriter, and Director of Fables and Facts Publishing. As a passionate wordsmith and an active member of the Twitter writing community,
Yasmine loves to weave captivating tales that inspire her readers with whimsical adventures, magic, and larger-than-life characters.
