Tag: Author requests

About the book:

 

Title: A Bargain in Silver

Author: Josie Jaffrey

Published: January 3rd 2015

Source: received from the author in exchange for a review

Format: paperback

Blurb:

A Bargain in Silver is book one of Josie Jaffrey’s Solis Invicti paranormal romance series, set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic London.

A deadly infection threatens to wipe out humanity. The only people who can stem its advance are the Silver, a vampiric race who offers a simple exchange: protection in return for blood and subservience. It’s not a deal that Emmy’s willing to make, but as her world burns around her she finds herself in the arms of the enemy and the line between oppressor and savior begins to blur.

After an attack by the infected, Emmy is rescued by the handsome Drew who introduces her to the world of the Silver. Desperate to escape subjugation and confused by her attraction to him, she gathers what remains of her surrogate family and plans to make a break for freedom.

But despite her efforts to resist, she is drawn further into the intrigues of the mysterious Silver through the agency of their ruler, the Primus: Solomon. Emmy refuses to submit to the cold and detached Primus and an attempt on her life makes it clear that he is unable to protect her from the political machinations of his race.

As the connection between them deepens she must choose between her desire and her will to rebel, but can she trust his intentions when everyone is after her blood?

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads

My Review:

I love vampire books! I started my reviewing activity with vampire books. I reconnected with my Passion for reading after devouring “Vampire Academy”.  So when the author approached me to read and review “A Bargain in Silver”, I was so excited! My apologies to Josie Jaffrey because my review is long overdue!

I was expecting a lot because I was missing reading about strong vampires, with strong feelings, that love and protect their soul mates. However, the first book in the “Solis Invicti” series delivered only a part of those expectations.

The story opens with the world being taken over by vampires, good and bad ones. Our main character is saved by one of the good guys and introduced to the new protectors of human kind. Emmy has to find her lace surrounded by beings who want her blood, but also by people who envy her for closeness not only to the leader, but also to his second in command.

We have here a love triangle, although I am not sure if he is in love with any of these guys. Sol, the leader, has the allure of power and mystery. Under his protection she is untouchable. Drew, the Secundus (and leader of the Solis Invicti) is in over his head, crazy in love with a woman who may or may not be his. As for Emmy,  I completely disliked her attitude. She is hot and then cold. She believes one then fears the other or vice versa. I did appreciate her will to survive and be independent at all cost, but she pushed a lot of limits and played with hearts a lot.

The writing was not bad at all. The world building is amazing and the idea of two type of vampires fighting for food (one in a practical way and the other in a chaotic manner) is interesting. There is a political intrigue that is not well developed in this book, but I hope to read more about it in the other ones. It felt a little weird how all characters were on short name basis so quickly, but I can get over it.

With all these items, I will give “A bargain in Silver” 3.5 stars (rounded to 4) with my hope that the next book will be even better. Let me know your thoughts if you have read it or not in the comments below. Happy Reading!

 

About the Author

 

I have always written stories, but it wasn’t until I started the first book in the Solis Invicti series in 2014 that I really became obsessed with writing. I love to read, particularly where the escapism of the story is enhanced with an element of fantasy or science fiction. For me, writing is simply an extension of that journey, but I get to decide what happens next (though it’s amazing how often the characters seem to decide for themselves what I’m going to write!).

As a new author, I love to hear from readers with their comments and feedback on the books, so please do get in touch through my website or via Twitter.

Website: http://www.josiejaffrey.com

Twitter: JosieJaffrey

Hi there!

What better way to start the year than with a review for a book in one of my favorite series from 2017 ? 

Vampire lore meets ancient Greek mythology in this intense paranormal adventure perfect for fans of Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, and Fallen!

Pandora Scott just saved the world…or did she?

Fresh off her victory, Pandora thinks life is finally starting to look up. No one is trying to kill her. A few people actually consider her a close friend. The future is wide open with possibilities. And she’s in love with the boy next door.

But when the titans come crashing into Sonnyville, adamant that the monster she destroyed still lives, Pandora can’t help but wonder if things could possibly be as perfect as they seem. A shocking death forces her to face the truth and understand that what she’d hoped would be the end of the war might really be just the beginning…

Shatter is the fourth and final book in the thrilling Midnight Ice series, a fantasy romance from bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis that twists vampire lore and ancient Greek mythology into an intense paranormal adventure!

Available from:

 Amazon – http://hyperurl.co/AmazonShatter

Apple – http://hyperurl.co/AppleShatter

B&N – http://bit.ly/BNShatter

Google Play – http://bit.ly/GPShatter

Kobo – http://bit.ly/KoboShatter

Smashwords – http://bit.ly/SWShatter

My Review

Finally (unfortunately) the end of the Midnight Ice series is here! I have spoken about this series and how much I love Kaitlyn Davis’ writing for months now. She is one of my greatest “discoveries” of 2017 and I am so happy and honored to have read and reviewed it completely! She is amazing and her stories are amazing as well. Here are my opinions about “Shatter”.

As opposed to the other three books, “Shatter” has a more strategical approach, if I may say so. It’s like a chess play between Sam and Pandora. They have their own plans and their own allies. One has to identify the other’s weaknesses. So the action is more focused on the characters, on a psychological level, and the bond between Sam, Pandora and Jax.  There is a long road ahead in order to establish a relationship based on trust between conduits and titans, but it seems one cannot manage without the other this time. I don’t want to get into that too much, as I don’t want to spoil your fun.

But far more exceptional is the way the author has portrayed Sam. Throughout the series, he has not been your usual negative character. All his actions have a pretty good justification: he wants Pandora back. And what better way to win her heart one more time than to deliver the world to her? Covered in darkness and destroyed but… whatever. He is led by his feelings, by love. I kind of like him. As opposed to Jax, who has betrayed Pandora some time ago, Sam will make the ultimate sacrifice for her.

Speaking of Jax, he is … in the shadows. You know what I mean, if you have read the previous book. But the love he has for Dory is what actually saves the day. Funny thing is that this exact love is what sent him there in the first place.

This series has been the highlight of my year. I loved it so much. All the books are real page turners and each volume end will be so unexpected. And it is the case for “Shatter” as well. I do recommend the series, I do recommend the author.

So go ahead and read the series and come back to talk about it J Enjoy!

Here is a little of what you can find in the previous books:

FROST (Midnight Ice Book One)

Even the hottest love can turn a girl cold-blooded… Don’t miss FROST, a fantasy romance from bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis that twists vampire lore and ancient Greek myths into an intense paranormal adventure!

 Life’s tough for a vampire thief on the run–just ask Pandora Scott, she knows. Four years ago she ran away from home after everyone she loved betrayed her. But now her annoyingly grown up (and handsome) ex boyfriend is stalking her, begging her to return. A mysterious vamp with a particularly dangerous (and sexy) stare keeps popping unexpectedly into her life. The extremely powerful head vampire of New York is hunting her down because she may (or may not) have broken into his highly-secure, highly-secretive personal vault. And the fate she’s been trying to outrun? Well, it’s about to catch up. Because even a super-speedy vamp with the ability to disappear can’t escape her own destiny.

Available from:

 Amazon – http://hyperurl.co/AmazonFrost

Apple – http://hyperurl.co/AppleFrost

B&N – http://bit.ly/BNFrost

Google Play – http://bit.ly/FrostGP

Kobo – http://bit.ly/KoboFrost

Smashwords – http://bit.ly/SWFrost

FREEZE (Midnight Ice Book Two)

Locked up doesn’t mean locked in.

Pandora Scott is in jail…again. Everyone she once loved betrayed her…again. And some of the most powerful people in the world want her dead…yes, again. Sound familiar? But if there’s one thing Pandora is good at, it’s wriggling her way out of life or death situations, and this time is no different. Armed with her ability to disappear and aided by the mysterious Sam, Pandora’s got a plan. Escape the most secure prison in the world. Evade the most powerful trackers on the planet. Forget every word that Jax has ever told her. And figure out how to change one teeny tiny thing–fate. Easy, right? Well…doable, at least.

Freeze is the second book in the thrilling Midnight Ice series, a fantasy romance from bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis that twists vampire lore and ancient Greek mythology into an intense paranormal adventure!

Available from:

 Amazon – http://hyperurl.co/AmazonFreeze

Apple – http://hyperurl.co/AppleFreeze

B&N – http://bit.ly/BNFreeze

Google Play – http://bit.ly/GPFreeze

Kobo – http://bit.ly/KoboFreeze

Smashwords – http://bit.ly/SWFreeze

 

FRACTURE (Midnight Ice Book Three)

When you fall for the devil, you’re bound to get burned.

Pandora Scott’s world has blown up once again, but this time she’s learned her lesson–saving the world isn’t a job she can do solo. She needs friends. But when her strongest ally also happens to be the boy who shattered her heart, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Especially since the person she has to destroy might just be the love of her life. With her fate hanging in the balance, Pandora’s got to make a choice. Forgive? Forget? Fight? Or falter? But everything changes when she realizes that the people she thought were heroes might be villains, and the good guys aren’t always as trustworthy as they seem…

Fracture is the third book in the thrilling Midnight Ice series, a fantasy romance from bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis that twists vampire lore and ancient Greek mythology into an intense paranormal adventure!

Available from:

Amazon – http://hyperurl.co/AmazonFracture

Apple – http://hyperurl.co/AppleFracture

B&N – http://bit.ly/BNFracture

Google Play – http://bit.ly/GPFracture

Kobo – http://bit.ly/KoboFracture

Smashwords – http://bit.ly/SWFracture

Author Bio: 

 

Kaitlyn Davis, a bestselling author with over a quarter of a million books sold, writes young adult fantasy novels under the name Kaitlyn Davis and contemporary romance novels under the name Kay Marie. Publisher’s Weekly has said, “Davis writes with confidence and poise,” while USA Today has recommended her work as “must-read romance.”

 

Always blessed with an overactive imagination, Kaitlyn has been writing ever since she picked up her first crayon and is overjoyed to share her work with the world. When she’s not daydreaming, typing stories, or getting lost in fictional worlds, Kaitlyn can be found playing fetch with her puppy, watching a little too much television, or spending time with her family. If you have any questions for her–about her books, about scheduling an event, or just in general–you may contact her at: KaitlynDavisBooks@gmail.com

Sign up for Kaitlyn’s newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of her new releases, to receive exclusive subscriber bonus content, and more! bit.ly/KaitlynDavisNewsletter

Author Links:

Website: KaitlynDavisBooks.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/KaitlynDavisBooks

Twitter: @DavisKaitlyn

Tumblr: KaitlynDavisBooks.tumblr.com

Wattpad: Wattpad.com/KaitlynDavisBooks

Pinterest: Pinterest.com/kdavisbooks

Youtube: Youtube.com/user/KaitlynDavisBooks

Goodreads: Goodreads.com/Kaitlyn_Davis

Newsletter: bit.ly/KaitlynDavisNewsletter

 

 

About the book:

 

Title: Indiscretion (Andalucían Nights #1)

Author: Hannah Fielding

Published: pril 9th 2015 by London Wall Publishing

Source: received from the author, in exchange for an honest review

Format: paperback

Blurb:

A young woman’s journey of discovery takes her to a world of forbidden passion, savage beauty, and revenge.

Spring, 1950. Alexandra de Falla, a half-English, half-Spanish young writer abandons her privileged but suffocating life in London and travels to Spain to be reunited with her long-estranged family.

Instead of providing the sense of belonging she yearns for, the de Fallas are driven by seething emotions, and in the grip of the wild customs and traditions of Andalucia, all of which are alien to Alexandra.

Among the strange characters and sultry heat of this country, she meets the man who awakens emotions she hardly knew existed. But their path is strewn with obstacles: dangerous rivals, unpredictable events, and inevitable indiscretions. What does Alexandra’s destiny hold for her in this flamboyant land of drama and all-consuming passions, where blood is ritually poured on to the sands of sun-drenched bullfighting arenas, mysterious gypsies are embroiled in magic and revenge, and beautiful dark-eyed dancers hide their secrets behind elegant lacy fans?

“Indiscretion” is a story of love and identity, and the clash of ideals in the pursuit of happiness. But can love survive in a world where scandal and danger are never far away?

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads. Also available on Book Depository, with free transport worldwide (and 26% off)

My Review:

There are so many things to discuss when it comes to “Indiscretion”, starting with how amazing this book looks and finishing with the lovely story it contains. I have loved every page! Being a lover of all things Spanish, it was quite predictable I would enjoy it.

When it comes to the content, the blurb says it all. It is a combination of fighting for love and finding oneself in the process. Alexandra de Falla goes in search for her Andalucían roots and answers an invitation from her father to meet her grandmother, the terrifying Doña Maria Dolores de Rueda. Little did she expect to find a more than welcoming old lady but a not so thrilled half-mother and sister. But she finds her strength and determination in the love she quickly starts to feel for her step-cousin Salvador. What they share reminded me a little about “Pride and Prejudice”, because both characters almost lost to their strong tempers. Without insisting too much on this, I can simply tell you this is an amazing combination of strong characters, a dash of mystical and great amount of intrigue.

All I can say is that with the Salvadores of this world, life is wonderfully exciting and full of the unexpected

Other than the story (of which I already stated it is fabulous!), we can experience an unbelievable trip to different cities in Andalucía. The way the author described those places is so vivid, so full of appreciation and respect for history and tradition. The book is full of descriptive paragraphs that may tire some of the readers, but I loved them all. I love Spain, I spent some time in Catalonia and I did my best to experience it. Since Andalucía is so different, I welcomed the voyage with open arms.

The truth can sometimes be slow to reveal itself. The sun sets every night but returns the next day. El tiempo es un gran curador, time is a great healer. Is it not said that he is a great master who solves many things?”

These two items (great story and incredible excursion in a lovely part of Spain) are topped with local legends and wisdom. The Spanish language is present as well, flowing like a melody, linking all the chapters!

I am so honored to have this book as a printed version, courtesy of the author. I’ve gained here not only an amazing book, but as well a free ticket to parts of Spain I have not yet discovered in person and an incursion in local history and legends. Suffice to say I loved every page and I look forward to more from the de Fallas!

 

About the Author

 Hannah Fielding is an incurable romantic. The seeds for her writing career were sown in early childhood, spent in Egypt, when she came to an agreement with her governess Zula: for each fairy story Zula told, Hannah would invent and relate one of her own. Years later – following a degree in French literature, several years of travelling in Europe, falling in love with an Englishman, the arrival of two beautiful children and a career in property development – Hannah decided after so many years of yearning to write that the time was now. Today, she lives the dream: writing full time at her homes in Kent, England, and the South of France, where she dreams up romances overlooking breath-taking views of the Mediterranean.

To date, Hannah has published five novels: Burning Embers, ‘romance like Hollywood used to make’, set in Kenya; the award-winning Echoes of Love, ‘an epic love story that is beautifully told’ set in Italy; and the Andalucian Nights trilogy (Indiscretion, Masquerade and Legacy), set in sultry Spain.

About the book:

Title: Travel as Transformation: Conquer the Limits of Culture to Discover Your Own Identity

Author: Gregory V. Diehl

Published: November 1st 2016 by Identity Publications

Source: received from the author and Identity Publications in exchange for a review

Format: paperback

Blurb:

A daring, intelligent, and unapologetic call to find yourself in wanderlust.

When you travel to a foreign place, do you experience this new life as your old self? Or do you become a new self?

From living in a van on the streets of San Diego, to growing chocolate with indigenous tribes in Central America, to teaching in the Middle East and volunteering in Africa, bestselling author Gregory V. Diehl has followed a worldly and unconventional path. Leaving his home in California as a teenager, he went on to live and work in 45 countries across the globe by age 28. In Travel as Transformation, he uses his diverse cultural experiences as a world traveler to ask the reader to question how their identity has been shaped by the lifestyle they live.

As you delve into Travel as Transformation, you will learn how travel can profoundly influence your perception of yourself. Diehl teaches aspiring travelers to let go of their internal inhibitions and former sense of self. He shares his own moving experiences of transformation across Costa Rica, China, Morocco, Armenia, Iraq, Monaco, Ecuador, and more to encourage travelers to embrace change. He takes the reader on a nomadic journey that examines all of humanity through unbiased eyes.

To travel with a truly open mind is to forget who you were when you started. It is to be constantly born anew, and identify with ways you did not know others could exist. What affirms you most? What would it take to destroy you? Travel as Transformation will give you the wisdom, the inspiration, and the resources to conquer the limitations of your home culture. It’s time to take advantage of everything the world has to offer and become everything you can be.

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads

My Review:

When I was approached by the author to read and review some of the non-fiction books that Identity Publications was willing to provide I was doing just what Gregory Diehl is advising in his book: exceed our limits, leave our comfort zone and experiment. Yes, mine was an experience at a lower level, but still. I would like to thank the author and Identity Publication for yet another amazing title I was lucky to receive from them.

“Travel as Transformation” is a self-discovery book, with a very powerful message: reinventing oneself by breaking free from society rules, by taking a chance. The author is relating from his own experience how he managed to overcome his limitations and fears, using traveling as his way of understanding the world. As many other readers, I believed this book was indeed a travel journal, where we see how he experienced different counties and cultures. But it is so much more than that. It is Gregory’s development journal (if I may call it like that), containing his accumulated experience, step by step.

There is a holistic approach to global travel that will fundamentally change you as a person.

The author’s journey begins with the discovery of other extraordinary people, who have also broken their boundaries: artists like Debussy or writers like Asimov. He learned to face his fears, to give up his preconceptions and to form new opinions of the world by experiencing different societies and ways of living.  Changes in Gregory’s mentality and personal life are described analytically, starting with his view of the world to his relationship with family members.

To some, this book might seem as instigation to a rebellious attitude. However, this is just how the author perceived his limitations. This is the objective: “Conquer the limits of culture to discover your own identity” and this can be achieved by conquering one’s fears, by surpassing the borders of our development.

The world is a book of many pages waiting to be read. The self is a library of ancient tomes written in languages you cannot fully understand. You grow accustomed with the characters you find on the first shelf and never get to know what remains on the vast arena of you.

I am a believer in education as guidance for a harmonious personal development and I believe society shapes us in one way or another. It is up to us how we let it influence us in the right way. Has this book achieved its purpose? Well, yes, in my case. Although I am not a risk taker, I was faced with not knowing what I wanted. I had my world turned upside down and learned to adapt. This process made me rethink my own identity. Again, my trials were at a lower scale, but significant to my own experience. Gregory Diehl’s book is a manifest for self-development, search for knowledge and achieving the best self we can be, by opening our mind to our surroundings.

Do whatever is difficult until it is no longer difficult. Let yourself grow into all the ways you are capable of being.

I hate loneliness; I need to be close to my family, although I live one hour drive from home, and I feel scared when I do not have the people important to me close. But I am learning to cope with these moments and finding mechanisms to adapt. I take my own adventures in the unknown through books and books I would not normally read for fear of not liking them (not being what I am used to).  So on some small level, I am starting my own journey to a more developed identity.

 About the Author

From a young age, Gregory Diehl understood the importance of universal ideals. Though he was raised in California, he soon embarked on a journey of global quest for learning, self-discovery, entrepreneurship, and inquiry. Since then, Gregory has lived and worked in 45 countries and continues to use his experiences to help others along the path of self-fulfillment through exploration.

Gregory’s first book, Brand Identity Breakthrough, is an Amazon bestseller. His podcast, Uncomfortable Conversations with Gregory, taps into the core of people’s conceptions of self. He helps entrepreneurs prepare complex value messages across many mediums, and offers unconventional lifestyle coaching and brand identity consultancy for impassioned individuals.

In his free time, Gregory kidnaps felines from streets around the world and bathes them in his sink before passing them along to strangers.

Find him at http://www.gregorydiehl.net

 

 

Hi back,

I’m here with a review of another great read for this winter and my first book from my TBR list for the Tackle that TBR Read-a-thon (you still have time to join, we’re down until January – check here for more details).

About the book:

Title: Marking Madden (Hearts of Hollis: Book One)

Author: J.L. Leslie & Nicole Dykes

Published: December 9th 2016

Source: received from the author (J.L. Leslie), in exchange for an honest review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

Jade…

I came to Hollis to leave my past. I couldn’t get away fast enough. I made new friends and I found a new life. I even found love. Of course, there was heartbreak too, but I’m tough. I can handle it. But I don’t know if I can handle him.

Madden…

She said yes and turned my world upside down. She was supposed to be mine. Not his. Not my brother’s. So I left and I haven’t looked back. I never expected to find someone here who’d make me forget. Someone unexpected. Someone who would mark my heart forever.

**Marking Madden is the first book in the Hearts of Hollis series co-written by Nicole Dykes and J.L. Leslie. It is written as a stand-alone novel. It contains adult content, language, and sexual situations. It is intended for mature readers only.**

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads

My Review:

“Marking Madden” has been on my TBR since more than I want to admit. It took me a while until I got all the blogging sorted out. I’d like to think that I am more organized and more mature when it comes to that. There are so many great books out there and so little time.

“Hearts of Hollis” starts with a great couple. Jade and Madden are perfect for each other. Similar heartbreaks bring them together, even if different upbringing seems to want them apart. What starts as a friendship, turns into more, right under their noses. Once that line is crossed, there is no going back. But can our main characters settle into this “improved friendship”? Will they cross back the line and become friends again? Or will they become nothing at all?

She has been through a lot! She has finally managed to find some kind of comfortable routine in Hollis, with a tempered best friend, a steady job and even a boyfriend, actually an ex-boyfriend. Well, who knows what he is anymore, since he’s back and has another girl at his side. Heartbroken and confused, she lives her life as peacefully as possible. He needs to get away. As soon as he finds out the love of his life would marry his brother, he needs to run. He has hoped to be the one, he wanted it so badly but… I guess a town in the middle of nowhere should help calm his torment.  What starts as a plan to make her ex-boyfriend jealous becomes normal to both, even if it’s just for a little while.

I loved this book so much, I loved the main characters and how well they connected. I must admit that I did not like Brady that much, but seeing that the second book (which is out since June) has him as main character, I am a little intrigued. So 5 stars and can’t wait to read the second book in the series.

 

About the Authors

J.L. Leslie

I am a happily married mother of three (two boys and one girl). I live in a very small town in Alabama. Never lived anywhere else. I’ve been writing since my early twenties, but I couldn’t seem to finish a book. I’ve started self-publishing with the encouragement from my mom. Without her encouragement, I don’t think I would’ve done it. She always supported me and writing is something I’ve always enjoyed doing. As long as I enjoy it, I’ll continue to do it. I’ve learned already that I can’t please everyone. Not all reviews will be good, not all reviews will be bad. I’m the one that has to be happy with my work.

I get my inspiration from life experiences, movies, television, other authors, and music. Music is definitely a big influence on my writing. I can hear a song and it can inspire an entire book for me. I listen to it while I’m driving or before I start writing and it keeps me inspired. I like to put music in my books, even if it’s just one song the characters listen to or hear at some point. Sometimes music has gotten me through the really tough times in my life and that’s why it inspires me.

I like to write fast-paced, steamy romance reads. I like for my males to be alpha-males and my heroines to be strong, but both need to have one weakness- each other. I am an avid reader. I absolutely love romance books!

Nicole Dykes

I grew up in a small rural town in Kansas and currently live in a suburb of Kansas City. I love to read books that have main characters that are seriously flawed. I love to write and have been writing since I was in grade school. I wrote for my college newspaper and I just published my first book March 2015!

Merry Christmas everyone!

I hope you have received a lot of presents, but just in case, I can tell you that Santa has left a lot of joy and happiness for you guys under my Christmas tree so here I am sending those your way

 I have a special review today: a children’s book.

About the book:

 

Title: Frede and Santa

Author: Leen Lefebre

Published: June 2nd 2017 by Leen Lefebre (first published December 6th 2014)

Source: received from the author, in exchange for a review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

In a faraway village there lives a farmer with his wife. The summer harvest has failed and winter already arrives. So, how should they feed their three sons? The idea arises to fetch wood in the northern forest. They could dry it, sell it from door to door and earn some money to buy food.

Frede knows that his parents are doing their best, but is it enough to withstand the most barren period of the year? Together with his brothers, Rhune and Folke, he wants to visit Santa and ask him for help. But, first they must travel through that extensive forest where the evil Elf King lurks.

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads

My Review:

A story about how a boy manages to help his family by asking for Santa’s help. Frede and his brothers leave in the middle of the night to the Christmas village and are faced with numerous adventures. The youngest of them all is also the bravest.

All three brothers have distinct features and are compared with children of the seasons. But freed is the one that stands out, not only because of his physical appearance (he looks like an elf, with his pointy ears), but also because of his determination. He will not allow any distractions from his mission. Moreover, he plans to be back home by morning, so his parents wouldn’t have time to worry. Sweet J

There are a couple of items that kept me from giving it 5 stars. Main one is the short length, which did not allow the story to develop. It all felt rushed and some parts could have been presented in more detail. Then we have the cover, which shows just a little boy. I would have added Santa, elves or maybe Santa’s carriage just to brighten it up a little. And maybe some drawings inside the book would have been nice. But maybe the physical copy looks different.

Since this book is about family and encourages parents to read to their children or buy books for them, I can only do the same. “Frede and Santa” is a good read for this time of the year, it brings family together, and that is nice.

Happy Holidays J

About the Author

Leen Lefebre (1982) grew up in West Flanders, where she works at the Local Heritage Service. She threw herself early on any book that was available. Later she rolled and settled in the worldwide web. Literary, musically and sportively Leen emerged as a true explorer. She is a dreamer and a doer. In this way all of her books have arisen as well: stories for all adventurers – young and old.

About the book:

 

Title: Erase

Author: J.Y. Barris

Published: August 2017 by Julie Barris

Source: received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

Allison Skala’s world was turned upside down in the thirty days following the death of her sister-in-law, Megan. Battling insomnia aside, she was in the middle of mending her marriage when she discovered secrets her parents had so determinedly kept hidden from her. All in due time, another tragedy that happened incidentally intertwined her life with that of Detective Martin Blake. Both dealing with loss, sorrow, and a traumatic past, would they find salvation in the end?

Dark, exciting, poignant, Erase is a disturbingly aspiring psychological thriller that will make you rethink human nature and question morality. It is a tale that will surprise you, grip you, and haunt you in your sleep.

Check it on: Amazon  & Goodreads

My Review:

This book is outside any boundary of my imagination. It exceeded my expectations so so much. I am beyond grateful to the author for taking a chance on my reviews and my blog and for providing a gift copy, because “Erase” is one amazing story.

As some of you know, I read mostly Romance, Fantasy or YA. So when the opportunity to review Julie’s book came up, I honestly thought it involved some kind of romance between the main character and a detective. I started reading it with this idea in mind. But soon, I found myself on a roller coaster.

You have to let one thing go in order to gain another

This is such a well-constructed psychological thriller! Allison Skala is one broken up woman. She has no one she can count on in her life. Her husband cheated on her with his step-sister (yes, it’s HIS step-sister) and after her death, their marriage goes from bad to worse. Her best friend Sara is more preoccupied with finding new lovers and her other best friend is her high school boyfriend who still has the hots for her. So she finds someone to confide into – her brother Adrian. But things are never what they appear to be.

The author has structured the book in three parts: Resentment, The Lesser Evil and Conscience. Each goes in line with the plot development and with Allison’s mental state. The first two parts cover 30 days’ worth of action and believe me, this is some action! There are parts here and there that may seem random and may have no ties to the story but the ending sheds some light. I was already out of my mind waiting to find out who did it!

Being a psychological thriller, “Erase” deals with several mental health issues. But in its center we have depression and its consequences on our mind and actions. We have obsession, we have questions of morality, we have people trying to protect their integrity. This is amazing!

They thought I couldn’t fu-fucking read, man I proved them wrong

It may not be the kind of book you read around Christmas, as it’s kind of dark, but it’s a great gift for someone who enjoys this type of books. Why? Because it’s a 5 stars read, it’s perfect and crazy fantastic! And I loved it!

Once in a while I take a chance on books that may not be about couples or heroes. Once in a while I find myself with a book like “Erase” by J.Y. Barris that makes me see the beauty and the complex in all kind of books. Dear author, thank you for this book and thank you for your future work!

About the book:

 

Title: Love and Deceit (Mason Siblings Series #3)

Author: Cheri Champagne

Published:  May 2nd 2017 by Pandamoon Publishing (first published July 1st 2013)

Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

Lady Katherine Mason is the average gentlewoman. Or is she? Since early girlhood, Lady Katherine has enjoyed creating fine clothing for her family. But she has a secret. A secret that takes her away from her family, and into the home of the Marquess of Withington. The mysterious and angry man engages Lady Katherine’s curiosity… and desire. But as much as she would like to, she is unable to reveal her true identity, for fear of total ruination.

Barrick Gray, the Marquess of Withington, despises the world for its morbid curiosity. He has no intention in encouraging the ton’s interest in his war wounds, but at the plea of his aunt, he has decided to briefly satisfy her request. Once he has proven to his aunt why he should not remain in the public eye, he will return to seclusion at his estate in Scotland. One thing, however, has suddenly captured his attention. A very intriguing sprite has somehow entered his safe haven… and begun to wreak havoc on his life… and his passions.

Neither expects the hunger that ignites between them. Will it lead to true love? Or will it tear both of their worlds apart?

Check it on: Amazon   Goodreads  Book Depository (free shipping)

 

My Review:

So what happens with another of the Mason siblings? Oh my, Lady Katherine Mason is a crown jewel and her story is so much more than love and it has some funny moments (or at least for me they were funny). Her passion for sewing lands her on the Marquis of Withington’s doorstep. She finds out the man needs a tailor, so she uses her disguise to get the job done. But as easy as it may be to fool some people,  as hard it is to fool others.

Barrick Gray has recently become the Marquis of Withington. He does not like these social events, especially because of his defect. But he is willing to give it a shot for his aunt’s sake. He find a good man in the form of his tailor, they form a beautiful friendship, based on trust and respect. But what happens after the great reveal?

I think this book is much more intense than the second one. And that doesn’t mean that “The Trouble with Love” is not good. It just speaks to the author’s ability to make the series even better and to keep the reader’s attention on it.

Lady Katherine has spent her time building a business, in a time when women should depend on men, when women should not venture on such things. They would be disgraced, blamed by society (yup, not fair, but those were the times). Still, she dares follow her passion, she becomes self-sufficient somehow. I admire her determination and courage to step up into the world and go against principles. She has an open mind, she is dedicated to her work, she is the kind of woman we should look up to.

Barrick is a man who bares the consequences of war on his body. He has isolated himself from society, has no friends to rely on and has developed a difficult temper. His suffering will deepen once his trust is taken for granted. And his fury is untamable.  Again, the author has done such a great job creating him. His every emotion is well presented and well accompanied by actions.

This story has many ups and downs. It will not bore you, it will keep you captivated. I loved every page and I could not put it down. Cheri Champagne has done an amazing job with the series. Each story is unique, but somehow they are tied together. And it gets better and better! I love her writing, I am a fan! Thank you very much to Cheri for providing me with copies in exchange for reviews (which came up very very late! And for that I apologize to her again!)

About the Author

I started writing as a child, and began reading historical romance novels at the age of fifteen. Finally, I combined my two passions and began writing steamy and suspenseful romances. I live in BC, Canada, with my husband, four young children, and our dog.

You can find me on:

Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest   Instagram

About the book:

 

Title: Angels’ Whispers

Author: J.F. Cain

Published: April 7th 2017

Source: received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

Alex Meyers, a dynamic, global entrepreneur, has an advantage that no other human has ever had: he is protected by Aranes, the Superior of the Angels. While he is skiing, he dies in an avalanche, but his all-powerful protector breaks one of the ethereal world’s most important Rules and brings him back to life. Alex falls head over heels in love with the beautiful Angel, who appears to him in human form. But she disappears just as suddenly as she had appeared.

While he searches for Aranes, Alex discovers her true identity and that he actually might be the high-ranking Celestial Abaddon, who is mentioned in the Revelations prophecy as the one who will defeat Lucifer.

The man who fate has thrust among the world’s superpowers is now living a nightmare. He wants to evade Lucifer’s pursuit, find out who he truly is and once again see the only being he has ever loved. And the only way to do it is to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Angels’ Whispers is the beginning of an epic tale set in modern times. The eternal war between Light and Darkness is at a critical turning point: Angels and Demons, invisible to mortal beings, battle for dominance in the physical world, while Guardians, vampires and werewolves, who live among the humans, find themselves on opposing sides in a deadly power game.

Check it on: Amazon & Goodreads

My Review:

This was another book that has been sitting on my TBR list for quite a while. And that’s too bad because I enjoyed it quite a lot.

So, as the blurb says, we have angels falling in love with humans, we have right and wrong, good and evil and broken rules. “Angels’ Whispers” is a complex book that touches a very delicate subject and even details it at some point: religion. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a theological writing, but a fantastic story about defeating evil at its core, with a touch of seriousness.

I liked the main characters very much. I liked their struggles too: Alex trying to understand how come he is still alive and who that mysterious woman that saved his life is and Aranes trying to respect the Celestial rules, fighting her attraction. But even the strongest of angels cannot defeat love. The real turn in the story comes when Alex understands exactly his role and his mission. But that is something to follow in the next book more thoroughly.

While the story focuses on our main characters and how they discover each other’s origins, religion is quite a debated subject. So it gives you something to think about between the reading breaks. And I liked that. Food for the brain!

On the negative side, this is not an easy book to read. It has little dialogue and a lot of descriptive paragraphs. I must admit that I got tired pretty quick and that’s why took me a while to finish it. After the first part, I got used to the style and I even skied a few lines here and there (hey! Don’t judge! You’ve done it too, at least once in your reading career, ok?!)

To keep this short, it definitely was an interesting read, with great characters. What would you expect when you have angels and demons? Thank you very much to the author for providing me a copy of this lovely book. My rating is 3.5 stars (rounded to 4).

About the book:

 

Title: The Trouble with Love

Author: Cheri Champagne

Published: January 31st 2017 by Pandamoon Publishing

Source: received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Format: e-copy

Blurb:

Lady Bridget Mason is hopelessly in love with her best friend, Major Charles Bradley. Since his return from war, however, something has changed him. He has stopped returning her letters, he gives her the cut direct, and when forced to interact with her, he is rude and downright unconscionable. Her hopes for a marriage with Charles have been heartbreakingly dashed.

The troubled hero…

Major Charles Bradley is in a fix. The very same men that kidnapped his sister and her new husband a few months past have given him a warning. They are coming after Bridget. He’d done his best to keep his two identities separate, but they are determined to clash. Despite doing his utmost to push Bridget away for her protection, his love for her has been discovered by his unnervingly indomitable enemy.

Their perilous love…

Charles must face his greatest challenge; he must protect Bridget at any cost. But, will his love’s big secret and Charles’ horrid treatment of her prove the task impossible?

Check it on: Amazon & Goodreads

Also available on Book Depository with free delivery world wide

 

My Review:

I have started the “Mason Siblings Series” with book number two and by the time this review goes live, I would have finished book no. 3. Let me say this because otherwise I’ll forget. The way Cheri Champagne waves in the current story bits and pieces from the next book is fabulous. I like it, I like her! Ok, back to the book at hand.

Here we are, with the story of another Mason. Lady Bridget Mason has had her heart broken by her best friend and love, Major Charles Bradley, not only when he chose war over her, but also when his promises of marriage prove to be just words. Major Bradley is struggling to keep the love of his life away from his alter ego. But when this becomes impossible, me must find a way to protect her. A great love story, with a heavy dose of mystery and action, “The Trouble with Love” is just amazing.

Lady Bridget is unusually strong and determined for a lady of that era. It seems her only weakness are the feelings she has for Charles. The only times we see tears from her are when she is remined of her love or when she is worried for his safety. She knows how to behave in society, how to make use of her charms and even how to do some other… man-related activities.

Major Bradley tries his best to push back his love and lust for Lady Bridget, while keeping his secret activities…. Secret. But at some point, this becomes difficult to do. Then he will try to convince her he still cares. They are an explosion of emotions together. They are like fuel and flame. And I love it.

The war against Napoleon, the conspiracies from that period, are gently intertwined with the love story. Our author has done her fair share of documentation and for that she deserves my appreciation.

All in all, this was an amazing book, written by an amazing author. A bit of a spoiler from my next review, book no. 3 is even better. I loved it and if you like historical romance, this book should be a must for you.

 

About the Author

I started writing as a child, and began reading historical romance novels at the age of fifteen. Finally, I combined my two passions and began writing steamy and suspenseful romances. I live in BC, Canada, with my husband, four young children, and our dog.

You can find me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cheri.Champagne.Author

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheriChampagne

Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/cherichampagne/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheri.champagne.author/