An Alternative History of Britain: The Tudors by Timothy Venning
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
For all of you following along today is day 4 of the Blog Challenge and todays theme was Family. A novel that makes you think of strong family ties. I know this may seem a little out of the box but nothing says family ties to me like the Royal family.
Summary:
Continuing his exploration of the pathways of British history, Timothy Venning examines the turning points of the Tudor period, though he also strays over into the early Stuart period. As always, he discusses the crucial junctions at which History could easily have taken a different turn and analyses the possible and likely results. While necessarily speculative to a degree, the scenarios are all highly plausible and rooted in a firm understanding of actually events and their context. In so doing, Timothy Venning gives the reader a clearer understanding of the factors at play and why things happened the way they did, as well as a tantalizing view of what might so easily have been different. Key scenarios discussed in this volume include: Did the pretenders Lambert Simnel and Perkin Warbeck ever have a realistic chance of a successful invsasion/coup? If Henry Fitzroy, Henry VIII s illegitimate son, had not died young, might he have been a suitable King or at least Regent on the King s death? What if Edward VI had not died at 15 but reigned into the 1560s and 70s? How might the Spanish Armada have succeeded in landing an army in England, and with what likely outcome?
My Take:
Anyone who knows me personally knows that I have a deep fascination with the Tudor Dynasty. This novel takes an interesting twist. Timothy Venning goes through and step by step explores what might have happened if fate had fallen a different way. Every possible time line is explored. From what would have happened if Arthur Tudor had lived to possible suitors for Henry's daughters. Essentially we get a glance at alternate time lines. For those readers who are not up on their Tudor history this was a great way to learn some history. To explore alternate possibilities you have to have a basic understanding of what really happened.
This was a nice break from all the crime serials and an enjoyably educational time travel experience. I'm really enjoying the Blog Challenge by Great New Reads. What a fun way to keep Quarantine interesting!
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Day 03 ~ Blog Challenge Golden Classics ~ Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski
Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well its time for our Day 03 in the Great New Reads Blog Challenge Golden Classics. For today I chose Blood of Elves Published in 1994
Summary:
For over a century, humans, dwarves, gnomes, and elves have lived together in relative peace. But times have changed, the uneasy peace is over, and now the races are fighting once again. The only good elf, it seems, is a dead elf.
Geralt of Rivia, the cunning assassin known as The Witcher, has been waiting for the birth of a prophesied child. This child has the power to change the world - for good, or for evil.
As the threat of war hangs over the land and the child is hunted for her extraordinary powers, it will become Geralt's responsibility to protect them all - and the Witcher never accepts defeat.
The Witcher returns in this sequel to The Last Wish, as the inhabitants of his world become embroiled in a state of total war.
My Take:
Although this is book one in the series I started with the prequel novel The Last Wish. SInce I am not typically into high fantasy I'm glad I started with the other novel first. This story starts of with Geralt and Ciri together and training. But their world is changing. And they can't avoid it for ever. Big Pros to this novel is that we get to experience some of the training techniques of the Witchers and of course travel the land and meet some interesting characters. The Cons are that if you haven't read the Last Wish, I feel like you might be a little confused. I did prefer the shirt story style of the last wish in comparison to the continuing epic one.
Overall its a great story which I enjoyed it just had a slightly diffrent feel than I was expecting.
Special Thanks to Great New Reads for hosting this challenge.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well its time for our Day 03 in the Great New Reads Blog Challenge Golden Classics. For today I chose Blood of Elves Published in 1994
Summary:
For over a century, humans, dwarves, gnomes, and elves have lived together in relative peace. But times have changed, the uneasy peace is over, and now the races are fighting once again. The only good elf, it seems, is a dead elf.
Geralt of Rivia, the cunning assassin known as The Witcher, has been waiting for the birth of a prophesied child. This child has the power to change the world - for good, or for evil.
As the threat of war hangs over the land and the child is hunted for her extraordinary powers, it will become Geralt's responsibility to protect them all - and the Witcher never accepts defeat.
The Witcher returns in this sequel to The Last Wish, as the inhabitants of his world become embroiled in a state of total war.
My Take:
Although this is book one in the series I started with the prequel novel The Last Wish. SInce I am not typically into high fantasy I'm glad I started with the other novel first. This story starts of with Geralt and Ciri together and training. But their world is changing. And they can't avoid it for ever. Big Pros to this novel is that we get to experience some of the training techniques of the Witchers and of course travel the land and meet some interesting characters. The Cons are that if you haven't read the Last Wish, I feel like you might be a little confused. I did prefer the shirt story style of the last wish in comparison to the continuing epic one.
Overall its a great story which I enjoyed it just had a slightly diffrent feel than I was expecting.
Special Thanks to Great New Reads for hosting this challenge.
Friday, April 24, 2020
There's a Book for That: A Bibliotherapy Event
Thursday night I had the pleasure to "participate" in the Boston Book Festivals online event There's a Book for That: A Bibliotherapy Event . This event was advertised on Facebook and booked through EventBrite.
From the Event Page : Join bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud and bartender Nick Petrulakis for an evening of cocktails and timely literary "prescriptions."
My Take:
I jumped at the chance to join in this event being someone who has always turned to reading in times of trouble as much as in times of joy. There is something wonderful about being able to escape from our world and imerse yourself into someone elses. Author Ella Berthoud helps people through different life issues by subscribing books that fit the situation. I personally love this idea. Ella, who is located in England, offers session with clients either in person or online. Perfect for everyone who is quarantining right now.
Ella answered a few questions including one about staying focused on reading which I thought was helpful. Both sugestions involve reading aloud. One was to read aloud to yourself. Another was to read to someone else. Either a relative, pet or even a friend via a Skype or Zoom.
Nick Petrulakis then came on to give us some helpful drink suggestions.
Overall this is a fun and interesting way to spend the afternoon. I will be keeping my eyes out for future Boston Book Festival Events.
From the Event Page : Join bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud and bartender Nick Petrulakis for an evening of cocktails and timely literary "prescriptions."
My Take:
I jumped at the chance to join in this event being someone who has always turned to reading in times of trouble as much as in times of joy. There is something wonderful about being able to escape from our world and imerse yourself into someone elses. Author Ella Berthoud helps people through different life issues by subscribing books that fit the situation. I personally love this idea. Ella, who is located in England, offers session with clients either in person or online. Perfect for everyone who is quarantining right now.
Ella answered a few questions including one about staying focused on reading which I thought was helpful. Both sugestions involve reading aloud. One was to read aloud to yourself. Another was to read to someone else. Either a relative, pet or even a friend via a Skype or Zoom.
Nick Petrulakis then came on to give us some helpful drink suggestions.
Overall this is a fun and interesting way to spend the afternoon. I will be keeping my eyes out for future Boston Book Festival Events.
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Stillhouse Lake ~ Rachel Caine
Stillhouse Lake by Rachel Caine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow, I was totally impressed by this book. I typically don't choose first person naratives so for me to enjoy this novel is saying alot.
Summary:
Gina Royal is the definition of average—a shy Midwestern housewife with a happy marriage and two adorable children. But when a car accident reveals her husband’s secret life as a serial killer, she must remake herself as Gwen Proctor—the ultimate warrior mom.
With her ex now in prison, Gwen has finally found refuge in a new home on remote Stillhouse Lake. Though still the target of stalkers and Internet trolls who think she had something to do with her husband’s crimes, Gwen dares to think her kids can finally grow up in peace.
But just when she’s starting to feel at ease in her new identity, a body turns up in the lake—and threatening letters start arriving from an all-too-familiar address. Gwen Proctor must keep friends close and enemies at bay to avoid being exposed—or watch her kids fall victim to a killer who takes pleasure in tormenting her. One thing is certain: she’s learned how to fight evil. And she’ll never stop.
My Take:
I found this novel while looking through Amazon for a novel set at the water for the OWLs reading challenge. Since I've been in a crime serial reading soree I figured this was a good choice. Maybe its because I am a mother so I can really feel the distress and determination of the mother. There is something truly primal about this mothers need to protect her children. This novel also explores the truly disturbing aspect of humanity, not just the serial killer fans but the vengful public who want to make his innocent family "pay".
The author does an excellent job keeping your adreneline running all the way till the end. Making this an excellent first book for a series I can't wait to finish! For those of you with Kindle Unlimited this novel is currently free to read.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow, I was totally impressed by this book. I typically don't choose first person naratives so for me to enjoy this novel is saying alot.
Summary:
Gina Royal is the definition of average—a shy Midwestern housewife with a happy marriage and two adorable children. But when a car accident reveals her husband’s secret life as a serial killer, she must remake herself as Gwen Proctor—the ultimate warrior mom.
With her ex now in prison, Gwen has finally found refuge in a new home on remote Stillhouse Lake. Though still the target of stalkers and Internet trolls who think she had something to do with her husband’s crimes, Gwen dares to think her kids can finally grow up in peace.
But just when she’s starting to feel at ease in her new identity, a body turns up in the lake—and threatening letters start arriving from an all-too-familiar address. Gwen Proctor must keep friends close and enemies at bay to avoid being exposed—or watch her kids fall victim to a killer who takes pleasure in tormenting her. One thing is certain: she’s learned how to fight evil. And she’ll never stop.
My Take:
I found this novel while looking through Amazon for a novel set at the water for the OWLs reading challenge. Since I've been in a crime serial reading soree I figured this was a good choice. Maybe its because I am a mother so I can really feel the distress and determination of the mother. There is something truly primal about this mothers need to protect her children. This novel also explores the truly disturbing aspect of humanity, not just the serial killer fans but the vengful public who want to make his innocent family "pay".
The author does an excellent job keeping your adreneline running all the way till the end. Making this an excellent first book for a series I can't wait to finish! For those of you with Kindle Unlimited this novel is currently free to read.
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
Blog Challenge Day 02 Travel/Vacation - Wild Card ~ Rachel Vincent
Wild Card by Rachel Vincent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I found out today's Blog Challenge theme was Vacation and Travel I knew I needed to get this review ready! Wild Card follows Kaci and Justus as they make an exciting trip to Las Vegas, to out run a murder charge. The road trip almost ends up as a long time Island vacation but of course there are a few detours and a murder trial to attend..
Summary:
Kaci Dillon is a man-eater.
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
My Take:
This is the third novel in Rachel Vincent's spin off series. For those of us who are fans of the original series this novel gives us a chance to check in with some old favorites and see how they are doing. I also enjoyed how these three novels are linked allowing us to have contact with some of the newer characters as well. You could read this book as a stand alone but I did reread the original series before starting this new one. Just to refresh my memory. The shifter society Vincent has created is expertly done. I've always enjoyed the way she pushes the society to equality but in a believable way. It would make sense that a society of shifters would have strict codes of secrecy or they wouldn't have survived this long. It also begs to reason the whole group would be a little sexist, sense female equality has been a battle for a long time.
To balance that we have some strong willed modern female leads. Each book in this series follows one tabby in her search for love, respect and independence. This novel follows Kaci who has spent the last few years being raise by Faythe and Marc since being found alone and in cat form in the Montana
Wilderness.
Kaci is all grown up but unable to escape the stigma that comes with being a Man Eater. Feeling alone and pretty down on herself she decides to hitch a ride with Justus who is headed to Las Vegas for a little pre-trial Vacation. Little does Kaci know this is going to be the trip of a lifetime!
I really enjoyed this novel. It was fun and exciting with a dash of romance. A perfect read to keep you up late into the night.
#BookReviewBlogChallenge
Check out Great New Reads for info on the blog challenge and to check out some other great books.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I found out today's Blog Challenge theme was Vacation and Travel I knew I needed to get this review ready! Wild Card follows Kaci and Justus as they make an exciting trip to Las Vegas, to out run a murder charge. The road trip almost ends up as a long time Island vacation but of course there are a few detours and a murder trial to attend..
Summary:
Kaci Dillon is a man-eater.
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
My Take:
This is the third novel in Rachel Vincent's spin off series. For those of us who are fans of the original series this novel gives us a chance to check in with some old favorites and see how they are doing. I also enjoyed how these three novels are linked allowing us to have contact with some of the newer characters as well. You could read this book as a stand alone but I did reread the original series before starting this new one. Just to refresh my memory. The shifter society Vincent has created is expertly done. I've always enjoyed the way she pushes the society to equality but in a believable way. It would make sense that a society of shifters would have strict codes of secrecy or they wouldn't have survived this long. It also begs to reason the whole group would be a little sexist, sense female equality has been a battle for a long time.
To balance that we have some strong willed modern female leads. Each book in this series follows one tabby in her search for love, respect and independence. This novel follows Kaci who has spent the last few years being raise by Faythe and Marc since being found alone and in cat form in the Montana
Wilderness.
Kaci is all grown up but unable to escape the stigma that comes with being a Man Eater. Feeling alone and pretty down on herself she decides to hitch a ride with Justus who is headed to Las Vegas for a little pre-trial Vacation. Little does Kaci know this is going to be the trip of a lifetime!
I really enjoyed this novel. It was fun and exciting with a dash of romance. A perfect read to keep you up late into the night.
#BookReviewBlogChallenge
Check out Great New Reads for info on the blog challenge and to check out some other great books.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Last Girl Standing ~ Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush
Last Girl Standing by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was excited to read this ARC from Netgalley. The first Lisa Jackson book I ever read was one that she and Nancy Bush had done together. After that I managed to score a whole slew of Lisa Jackson novels and I've enjoyed everyone.
Summary:
First they were five. Then they were four. Who's turn will it be next?
New York Times bestselling Sisters of Suspense join forces for a gripping novel about a clique of popular girls whose high school friendship is marked by a tragedy that continues to haunt them decades later
My Take:
This one did not disappoint. Suspenseful till the last moment. The main characters are the mean girls from high school everyone loved to hate. Although this story is filled with small town secrecy and big time trouble. There was a level of intensity from each of the First Five, which can be hard to maintain with so many characters in play. I think the authors have done an excellent job building believable teenagers who are so wrapped up in their emotional lives that can't truly see whats going on around them. It also shows how sometimes tragedy shapes a community more than anyone might realize.
As the storyline heats up you realize things are even crazier than you thought.I promise you this one will keep you guessing till the very end.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was excited to read this ARC from Netgalley. The first Lisa Jackson book I ever read was one that she and Nancy Bush had done together. After that I managed to score a whole slew of Lisa Jackson novels and I've enjoyed everyone.
Summary:
First they were five. Then they were four. Who's turn will it be next?
New York Times bestselling Sisters of Suspense join forces for a gripping novel about a clique of popular girls whose high school friendship is marked by a tragedy that continues to haunt them decades later
My Take:
This one did not disappoint. Suspenseful till the last moment. The main characters are the mean girls from high school everyone loved to hate. Although this story is filled with small town secrecy and big time trouble. There was a level of intensity from each of the First Five, which can be hard to maintain with so many characters in play. I think the authors have done an excellent job building believable teenagers who are so wrapped up in their emotional lives that can't truly see whats going on around them. It also shows how sometimes tragedy shapes a community more than anyone might realize.
As the storyline heats up you realize things are even crazier than you thought.I promise you this one will keep you guessing till the very end.
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Circle of Desire ~ Keri Arthur
Circle of Desire by Keri Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book has been sitting in my digital TBR pile for far to long! Lucky for me I got a great deal on a used Kindle Oasis and now I can clear my digital TBR shelf. I received the digital copy of this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
Summary:
In ten years of working for the Damask Circle, shapeshifter Katherine Tanner has never come across anything that goes after kids the way this monster does, and she has never met anything that does to them what this thing does. And it’s not something she wants to confront. But with the Circle’s resources stretched to the limits, she’s given very little choice. The last thing she needs is interference from a cop who has no idea what he’s up against.
Ethan Morgan’s niece is one of the missing children and he has every intention of not only defying the odds and bringing her back alive, but of catching the monster behind these kidnappings and bringing her to justice. Even if he has to break every law in the country to do it. And he's willing to use anyone and everyone to achieve those aims--even a crazy woman who claims to be a witch.
Forced to join forces, Ethan and Kat are drawn to each other, but fight their feelings as they struggle to uncover clues that will lead them to the monster’s lair and battle a seemingly endless supply of zombies and other dead things determined to stop them. But time is ticking away and both know the monster behind these kidnappings rarely keeps her victims alive for more than seven days. And four of those have already gone.
But the greatest threat to Kat might not come from the forces of darkness gathering around them, but from the man she is beginning to love.
My Take;
Being the 3rd book in the series it took a few chapters for me to catch up with what was going on. After that the storyline moved in a well paced way. Mixing action scenes with steamy romance. The first few encounters with Kat and Ethan are a little rough. There isn't the romance and longing you would usually expect in this kind of fantasy. The casual nature of their relationship does begin to change for the better and you end up with a good read.
There is also a new and interesting supernatural predator. I wish we had been able to spend a little more time with the Mara. Learning about the creature. Maybe I've been just reading too many crime serials. This really wasn't that kind of novel. Worth the read but I do think you'd be better off starting at book 1.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book has been sitting in my digital TBR pile for far to long! Lucky for me I got a great deal on a used Kindle Oasis and now I can clear my digital TBR shelf. I received the digital copy of this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
Summary:
In ten years of working for the Damask Circle, shapeshifter Katherine Tanner has never come across anything that goes after kids the way this monster does, and she has never met anything that does to them what this thing does. And it’s not something she wants to confront. But with the Circle’s resources stretched to the limits, she’s given very little choice. The last thing she needs is interference from a cop who has no idea what he’s up against.
Ethan Morgan’s niece is one of the missing children and he has every intention of not only defying the odds and bringing her back alive, but of catching the monster behind these kidnappings and bringing her to justice. Even if he has to break every law in the country to do it. And he's willing to use anyone and everyone to achieve those aims--even a crazy woman who claims to be a witch.
Forced to join forces, Ethan and Kat are drawn to each other, but fight their feelings as they struggle to uncover clues that will lead them to the monster’s lair and battle a seemingly endless supply of zombies and other dead things determined to stop them. But time is ticking away and both know the monster behind these kidnappings rarely keeps her victims alive for more than seven days. And four of those have already gone.
But the greatest threat to Kat might not come from the forces of darkness gathering around them, but from the man she is beginning to love.
My Take;
Being the 3rd book in the series it took a few chapters for me to catch up with what was going on. After that the storyline moved in a well paced way. Mixing action scenes with steamy romance. The first few encounters with Kat and Ethan are a little rough. There isn't the romance and longing you would usually expect in this kind of fantasy. The casual nature of their relationship does begin to change for the better and you end up with a good read.
There is also a new and interesting supernatural predator. I wish we had been able to spend a little more time with the Mara. Learning about the creature. Maybe I've been just reading too many crime serials. This really wasn't that kind of novel. Worth the read but I do think you'd be better off starting at book 1.
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Blog Challenge Day 01~ Dreams and Ambitions ~ Dressage for the Not-So-Perfect Horse
Book Review Blog Challenge Day 01- Dreams and Ambitions
Alright here we go. For today's installment in the blog challenge I've decided to go with an equestrian self help book. Since I am still recovering from a broken ankle this is the perfect time to expand my craft through reading.
Dressage for the Not-So-Perfect Horse: Riding Through the Levels on the Peculiar, Opinionated, Complicated Mounts We All Love by Janet Foy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Summary:
Thousands of riders pursue the sport of dressage across the globe, and the majority do so on a budget and with the horse they already have, or quite simply, the one they can afford. This means riders daily face the challenge of mastering one of the world’s most esteemed equestrian pursuits on horses that may not be bred specifically for the task, or even if they have been, may not be top prospects for any number of reasons—behavioral quirks, conformational impediments, age or soundness issues, you name it.
International dressage judge, clinician, and riding coach Janet Foy has ridden many different horses in the course of her riding and horse training career—different sizes, shapes, colors, and breeds—to the highest levels of dressage competition. Now she has compiled her best tips for training and showing the horse you have (or the horse you love, despite his “faults”) through the levels. With lists of the common “imperfections and evasions” experienced when riding movements—from simple transitions and leg-yield to zig-zags, tempi changes, and piaffe— followed by training tips and creative ways to “perfect” the “imperfections,” riders are bound to discover countless ways to apply Janet’s advice in their dressage pursuits.
My Take:
Easy to understand and logically broken down this book de-mistifies some of the more confusing "basics" that many people struggle from. Myself included.
I chose this book beacause the title really grabbed me. As an equestrian I am always trying to do things better. With more feel, or more accuracy, more impulsion or more control. Since my own horse would often prefer a lesiorly trail ride to flat work in the ring, finding new ways to engage his brain (and body) is of the utmost improtance. Just like people horses have diffrent learning styles and behaviours. Understanding your horse and diffrent methods to help your horse understand you can make all the difffrence in training.
I'll be honest with you. I have often found Equestrian non fiction to be kind of dry. Not nesecarily hard to understand but just hard to relate to. That is really where this one stands out. Each step is broken down and explained in an informative but relatable way. If you start at the begining and work your way through you can easily see the building blocks to each movement . If you are a more experienced rider or if you are thinkong of resolving just a certaian problem you can quickly find the chapter that interests you. I often enjoy learning how other instructors teach the basis since I teach beginners. Either way I'm sure you will learn a lot and be ready to put it into practice. Once we all get out of quarentine.
There is also a second book that focuses on training which I hope to pick up in the near future.
Special Thanks to Great New Reads for picking such a good topic for today!
#bookreviewblogchallenge
Friday, April 17, 2020
OWLS readathon update
Well here we are more than half way through April so I figured it was time for an update.
I have finished the following "courses" and submitted my Tomes
Transfiguration - Night of the Billionaire Wolf by Terry Spear
Muggle Studies - Thicker than Blood by Mike Omer
History of Magic - Capturing the Last Welsh Witch by J.M. Davies
Now on to finish ;
Divination - Wild Card by Rachel Vincent
I also have a few I haven't found books for yet
Astronomy - read at night
Charms- White cover
Potions- under 150 Pages
Herbology- Tittle starts with an I
DADA- Set at the sea or the coast
Care of magical creatures- Beak on the cover
If you have any suggestions I'd love to hear them!
Interested in joining all the fun? Check out the Magical Readathon page. There is still plenty of time!
I have finished the following "courses" and submitted my Tomes
Transfiguration - Night of the Billionaire Wolf by Terry Spear
Muggle Studies - Thicker than Blood by Mike Omer
History of Magic - Capturing the Last Welsh Witch by J.M. Davies
Now on to finish ;
Divination - Wild Card by Rachel Vincent
I also have a few I haven't found books for yet
Astronomy - read at night
Charms- White cover
Potions- under 150 Pages
Herbology- Tittle starts with an I
DADA- Set at the sea or the coast
Care of magical creatures- Beak on the cover
If you have any suggestions I'd love to hear them!
Interested in joining all the fun? Check out the Magical Readathon page. There is still plenty of time!
Thursday, April 16, 2020
Night of the Billionaire Wolf ~ Terry Spear
Night of the Billionaire Wolf by Terry Spear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another win for Terry Spear! If you look back into some of my old reviews you'll learn I am a big Terry Spear fan. So I was very excited when I got the chance to read the ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review. If you are looking for romance and an upbeat story line she never lets you down. I also have always enjoyed the world she has set up for her wolves. The Lupus Garou shift seamlessly between wolf and human, mate for life, and have strong family bonds. They also tend to be pretty honorable (at least the main characters) so overall they are almost always likable. I've always though if shifters could exist in our world it would have to be more like that. If there was some moon obsessed magical killers running around human would have hunted them into extinction years ago.
Summary:
It's not easy being a billionaire, a wolf shifter, and a woman...
Lexi Summerfield built her business from the ground up. But with great wealth comes great responsibility, and some drawbacks Lexi could not have anticipated. Lexi never knows who she can trust... Even on vacation, Lexi has a hard time trying to relax. And for good reason―the paparazzi are dogging her, and so is someone else with evil intent.
Then Lexi meets bodyguard and gray wolf shifter Ryder Gallagher, who's also vacationing at Redwood National Park. When the two run into each other on the hiking trails, and then serendipitously rescue two bear cubs, Lexi feels safe for the first time in she can't remember when. But secrets have a way of surfacing... With the danger around Lexi escalating, Ryder will do whatever it takes to stay by her side...
My Take:
This book centers on Lexi a smart and wealthy female wolf who has had her world turned upside down after the death of her mom and loss of her dad. Not just dealing with the running of her business but also trying to weed through a sea of suitors who are only after her money. Lucky for Lexi she manages to cross paths with a wolf who is more interested in protecting her and things heat up.
I don't want to give any spoilers but I was excited to meet up with some characters from previous books. Having been a long time reader its nice to have a touch base with some old friends.
If you enjoy paranormal romance this is a great read.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another win for Terry Spear! If you look back into some of my old reviews you'll learn I am a big Terry Spear fan. So I was very excited when I got the chance to read the ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review. If you are looking for romance and an upbeat story line she never lets you down. I also have always enjoyed the world she has set up for her wolves. The Lupus Garou shift seamlessly between wolf and human, mate for life, and have strong family bonds. They also tend to be pretty honorable (at least the main characters) so overall they are almost always likable. I've always though if shifters could exist in our world it would have to be more like that. If there was some moon obsessed magical killers running around human would have hunted them into extinction years ago.
Summary:
It's not easy being a billionaire, a wolf shifter, and a woman...
Lexi Summerfield built her business from the ground up. But with great wealth comes great responsibility, and some drawbacks Lexi could not have anticipated. Lexi never knows who she can trust... Even on vacation, Lexi has a hard time trying to relax. And for good reason―the paparazzi are dogging her, and so is someone else with evil intent.
Then Lexi meets bodyguard and gray wolf shifter Ryder Gallagher, who's also vacationing at Redwood National Park. When the two run into each other on the hiking trails, and then serendipitously rescue two bear cubs, Lexi feels safe for the first time in she can't remember when. But secrets have a way of surfacing... With the danger around Lexi escalating, Ryder will do whatever it takes to stay by her side...
My Take:
This book centers on Lexi a smart and wealthy female wolf who has had her world turned upside down after the death of her mom and loss of her dad. Not just dealing with the running of her business but also trying to weed through a sea of suitors who are only after her money. Lucky for Lexi she manages to cross paths with a wolf who is more interested in protecting her and things heat up.
I don't want to give any spoilers but I was excited to meet up with some characters from previous books. Having been a long time reader its nice to have a touch base with some old friends.
If you enjoy paranormal romance this is a great read.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Blog Challenge~ Day 00
Today is the opening day of the Great New Reads Blog Challenge. Today's challenge was to find a book that brought you joy. I grew up with a deep love for Arthurian Legend. After watching almost every movie about King Arthur a friend recommended this book. Once I started it I honestly could not put it down. This is one of the only books I have found myself rereading over and over again.
Special thanks to Great New Reads for picking such a fun topic to start.
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amazingly written, makes you feel like this is the true story of King Arthur. This is one of my all time favorite books. Coming from me that is saying a lot. The characters are vibrant and well written. The story-line makes sense of the old legends. If you enjoy a fractured fairy-tale this one is well worth the read.
Special thanks to Great New Reads for picking such a fun topic to start.
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amazingly written, makes you feel like this is the true story of King Arthur. This is one of my all time favorite books. Coming from me that is saying a lot. The characters are vibrant and well written. The story-line makes sense of the old legends. If you enjoy a fractured fairy-tale this one is well worth the read.
Friday, April 10, 2020
Destiny of the Witch ~ J. M. Davies
Haunted soul-shifter, Ella Masters’ destiny is to defeat her nemesis, the Morrigan, and save mankind, but since when does destiny ever play fair?
Wolf Majick Reviews is happy to take part in the book tour for Destiny of the Witch
by J.M. Davies
Destiny of
the Witch
The Rise
of Orion Series
Book Four
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: J. M. Davies
Date of Publication: April 10th, 2020.
ISBN: ISBN-9798620706396
ASIN:
B085D8KJGG
Number of pages: 247
Word Count: 77,293
Cover Artist: Gabrielle Prendergast
Wolf Majick Reviews received a copy of the novel in order to give an honest review and take part in this tour. You can enter for your chance to win a copy! Make sure to scroll down after my review to check out some information about the author and an excerpt of the novel.
Tour Giveaway
Summary:
In the thrilling climax of the Rise of
Orion series, the stakes are higher than ever before as Ella Masters risks everything to fulfill her
destiny. As the last Welsh witch and soul-shifter, she has battled many
enemies, but none as malevolent as the Morrigan. The devious goddess is
determined to destroy not only her, but mankind as well.
Betrayed by her lover Marcus Drayton, an
agent for the security team Orion, and facing impossible odds Ella must find
the strength to fight her deadly adversary—alone.
Marcus is desperate to save Ella. In a
daring and calculated move, he surrenders
himself to the Morrigan to prevent his soul mate from clashing swords
with the harbinger of death. But has he underestimated what’s at play? When the
seductive goddess, manipulates him—her true agenda in this twisted game is
revealed.
With the world a battlefield and the very
balance of nature under threat, will Ella and Marcus defeat their foes? Will
destiny keep them together or tear them apart?
My Take;
4 Stars
This novel picks up with the continuing story of Ella and Marcus. If you have read the previous novels you are probably hoping for a happy ending but they still have some danger to get through and some mysterious forces to overcome. The character development is stronger in this novel than in the first novels. With good pacing for the chapters and just the right amount of steamy to keep your heart racing. Theres also some good action of the non sexual nature. Who doesn't love an out of control Goddess? I do think you would get the most out of the story line if you started with the first novels.
About the
Author:
J. M.Davies, Jen is the author of The
Rise of Orion paranormal romance series as well as several contemporary and YA
fantasy novels under the name, Jennifer Owen Davies. Jen’s novels are available
worldwide in Ebook and print format. In
2014, she was signed with Secret Cravings to write the Children of Annwn
fantasy series and in 2018 signed with Limitless Publishing to write the Bound
by Love series. Jen is also an indie author producing and publishing work of
her own.
Jen loves to create realistic and flawed
characters who deserve a happy ever hopefully providing a satisfying read.
J. M. Davies, Jen, is originally from
Wales in the UK, but now lives with her family in a small town in New England
close to the city of Boston, the coast, and the mountains. Both countries are
huge sources of inspiration for her writing. Since she could read, Jen has
enjoyed an eclectic taste in books, but loves all thing's romance, and from her
love of the written word stemmed the desire to create her own satisfying
stories. Although, a shortie at only five feet tall, she has a big heart and
hopes that is evident in her storytelling.
Jen has been married for twenty-three
years to her greatest supporter. She is mom to four boys, an adorable rescue
hound called Ella, and a feline called Kitkat. When she isn’t writing
paranormal or contemporary romance, Jen manages a local romance only book club
called ‘Babes with Books’. She loves discovering old treasures at yard sales
and revamping them, watching Grey’s Anatomy, walking on the beach, cooking,
biking and when there’s time the gym. She loves to chat to readers and below
are some ways to stay in touch with the latest news about her books and
competitions. If you haven’t read any of Jen’s book sign-up for her newsletter,
and you’ll receive a free book!
Twitter https://twitter.com/jendaviesuk
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/jengal124/
Author J. M. Davies Cheerleaders https://www.facebook.com/groups/2463223277292776
Facebook Author Page https://www.facebook.com/Jennifer-Owen-Davies-YA-J-M-Davies-Adult-1421409368089313
Excerpt:
Ella spun around, facing
a bloody battle scene. Chaos surrounded her and for a moment, she froze, unsure
what to do. Marcus was at the edge of the beach, fighting several monsters, and
the cats from the island were jumping on the creatures’ backs and clawing at
them, only to be tossed aside. Ghostly skeletal and sinewy figures swarmed the
wedding party like ants, wielding swords and brandishing axes and slicing down
those in their way. The creatures dragged thick swirls of mist from the ocean,
making visibility patchy at best. The moans and yells grew louder.
When a one-armed corpse
hollered and lunged at her with his silver blade held high above his mottled
head, Ella launched into action. Luckily, with her attacker’s reduced eyesight,
his aim sucked, and he missed, giving her time to duck out of the way. The
sudden movement ripped the delicate seam of her dress, revealing her stash of
weapons strapped to her legs. Grabbing her knife from the holster secured
around her thigh, she twisted around, ready to fight back, but hesitated for a
second, unsure where to stick her weapon into the boney carcass to cause
maximum damage. A silver breastplate covered the creature’s chest.
Cries and roars
surrounded her. Ella couldn’t believe the chaos and plunged the knife into the
monster’s side, where pink muscle and torn flesh hung loose. The creature
wailed but managed to grab her throat and squeezed it tight. His sharp skeletal
bones tightened, shutting off her air supply, stealing her breath. Blinking to
stay awake, she watched as a blurry figure grabbed the decomposing form. In one
fluid motion, he snapped the creature’s neck and ripped the head off, dropping
it to the ground. Heaving in a lungful of oxygen, she didn’t have time to
respond as Roman, the prince of vampires, whisked her off the ground to stand
next to Isabella on the wedding dais. The vampire pulled her in close and
hugged her tight.
“I should’ve known…” she
said, still catching her breath. “I detected a foul scent earlier. It smelled
like a dead body,” Ella said. Being a soul-shifter, one of her talents was to
detect other creatures by their scents. She crouched low with her small blade
out in front, backed against Roman, Isabella, and several vamps as the fog
swirled around them.
“That monster would’ve
killed you, Ella. How the hell did they get through the wards?” Isabella asked.
“I would like to know
the answer to that,” Roman yelled.
“The wards were set up
so no one would get inside…” Isabella shrieked.
“Well, the undead are
definitely here and they weren’t on my guest list. These creatures don’t abide
by normal rules. They are deadly assassins who’ll keep coming until they have
achieved their goal. The only way to kill them is to sever the head. Nothing
else will work. But for us to do that, we need to be able to see them. Now
would be a good time to use your unique gifts to get rid of this infernal
mist!” Roman hollered.
“You think I haven’t
already tried?” Isabella replied.
The prince switched his
gaze between the women and the battlefield, obviously weighing up the odds.
Ella tilted her head, calling out for the spirits to help to disperse the fog
that blanketed the ground.
“You need to leave.
There’s too many of them,” Roman shouted. He nodded at one of his guards. The
vampire grabbed hold of Isabella’s arm, but she struggled in protest.
“I’m not leaving. You
can’t ask me to, Roman. This is my fight too. This is our wedding.”
Roman kissed her on the
lips and without another word, Isabella vanished, along with the guard. The
prince flicked his gaze over at Ella. “Don’t look at me like that. After all,
she’s hardly dressed for a fight, and the creatures have weapons that destroy
our kind. You shouldn’t be here either, not in your condition, but I suspect
you would protest as much as Isabella. Fortunately for you, I have no authority
where you’re concerned. But tread carefully, my feroce guerriero.”
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