My Book Reviews

Category: LGBTQ

Edie in Between by Laura Sibson

Edie in Between by Laura Sibson

Release: August 24th 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon ,Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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A modern-day Practical Magic about love, loss, and embracing the mystical.

It’s been one year since Edie’s mother died. But her ghost has never left.

According to her GG, it’s tradition that the dead of the Mitchell family linger with the living. It’s just as much a part of a Mitchell’s life as brewing cordials or talking to plants. But Edie, whose pain over losing her mother is still fresh, has no interest in her family’s legacy as local “witches.”

When her mother’s teenage journal tumbles into her life, her family’s mystical inheritance becomes once and for all too hard to ignore. It takes Edie on a scavenger hunt to find objects that once belonged to her mother, each one imbued with a different memory. Every time she touches one of these talismans, it whisks her to another entry inside the journal—where she watches her teenage mom mourn, love, and hope just as Edie herself is now doing. Maybe, just maybe, Edie hopes, if she finds every one of these objects, she can finally make peace with her loss and put the past to rest for good. But this journey to stake her independence from her family may actually show Edie who she truly is…and the beautiful gifts that come with being just a little different.

About the Author:

After a career in undergraduate counseling, Laura Sibson pursued an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. When she’s not writing in a local coffee shop, you can find her running the neighborhood streets or hiking with her dog. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and their two sons. Laura is available for school visits, book clubs, workshops and conferences. She can speak on the process of writing and publishing to audiences from middle school into adulthood. With her background in one-on-one counseling, giving presentations and facilitating both panels and writing groups, Laura brings both warmth and professionalism to all of her endeavors..

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

Edie in Between Review:

Click to view on Instagram

Of feathers, shadows, and talismans, you will read
and you will fall in love with “Edie in Between.”

I honestly love books that deal with crystal balls, tarot cards, and anything that falls in that spectrum. I thought the author did a lovely job in telling the tale because it felt fresh and new. Everything about the story, from Edie finding the journal entries to Maura’s flashbacks, was terrific. The story takes off once Edie starts going to the shadowed land. I thought some of the best moments were her reactions when she comes across the items. Some of the scenes are haunting and beautiful, like Edie trying to adjust her feelings for Rhia. Some scenes were also terrifying, like when feathers protrude from a character’s mouth, and shadows twist their body. But the story was just incredible through and through. I also adored the supporting characters like Tess and GG.

Similarly, the author also wrote both the characters wonderfully! Edie and Maura are distinct in their way, and I loved what each of them brought to the story. Maura is fascinating, and I loved the nuances as she deals with losing her father and her emotions for Jamie. Similarly, Edie shines in the story as she tries to learn more about her mother. I also enjoyed how the author toggles between Maura and Edie’s storyline. There are quite a few twists and turns that I did not expect, which made the story memorable. Moreover, I also liked how the author creatively wrote the story. For instance, I found the instructions on using the crystal for the ritual very creative.

Overall, “Edie in Between” surprised me and turned out to be a magical story.

Giveaway (US Only):

One winner will receive a finished copy of Edie in Between and some swag. The giveaway starts on August 23^rd and ends on August 30^th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Edie in Between by Laura Sibson Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

August 23rd
The Book Dutchesses – Interview
Stuck in Fiction – Promo
Books With Michelle – Journal Spread & Review
RobinleaBookBird – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read Edie in Between

August 24th
Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review, Playlist & Mood Board
Book-Keeping – Review
I dream in books – Review & Playlist

August 25th
Confessions of a Reading Addict – Review
The Blind Scribe – Review & Favourite Quotes
PopTheButterfly Reads – Review

August 26th
Kait Plus Books – Interview & Mood Board
Pages & Plots – Promo Post
The Broke Book Blog – Book Look & Top 5 Reasons to Read Edie in Between

August 27th
What Irin Reads – Review
Rampant Reading Reviews – Review
The Someday Librarian – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read Edie in Between

August 28th
FyreKatz Blog – Review
The Written Journey – 15 Reactions While Reading Edie in Between
Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

August 29th
Nine Bookish Lives – Interview
The Bookish Context – Review
Sadie’s Spotlight – Promo Post
Emotional Medley – Review & Favourite Quotes

August 29, 2021
The One True Me and You by Remi K. England

The One True Me and You by Remi K. England

Release: March 1st 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Source: NetGalley
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N , Indigo

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Up and coming fanfic author Kaylee Beaumont is internally screaming at the chance to finally meet her fandom friends in real life and spend a weekend at GreatCon. She also has a side quest for the weekend:

Try out they/them pronouns to see how it feels
Wear more masculine-presenting cosplay
Kiss a girl for the first time

It’s… a lot, and Kay mostly wants to lie face down on the hotel floor. Especially when her hometown bully, Miss North Carolina, shows up in the very same hotel. But there’s this con-sponsored publishing contest, and the chance to meet her fandom idols… and then, there’s Teagan.

Pageant queen Teagan Miller (Miss Virginia) has her eye on the much-needed prize: the $25,000 scholarship awarded to the winner of the Miss Cosmic Teen USA pageant. She also has secrets:

She loves the dresses but hates the tiaras
She’s a giant nerd for everything GreatCon
also She’s gay af

If Teagan can just keep herself wrapped up tight for one more weekend, she can claim the scholarship and go off to college out and proud. However, if she’s caught, she could lose everything she’s worked for. If her rival, Miss North Carolina, has anything to do with it, that’s exactly how it’ll go down.

When Teagan and Kay bump into one another the first night, sparks fly. If they’re spotted, the safe space of the con will be shattered, and all their secrets will follow them home. The risks are great… but could the reward of embracing their true selves be worth it?

About the Author:

M. K. England grew up on the Space Coast of Florida watching shuttle launches from the backyard. These days, they call rural Virginia home, where there are many more cows but a tragic lack of rockets. In between marathon writing sessions,

MK can be found drowning in fandom, rolling critical hits at the gaming table, digging in the garden, or feeding their video game addiction. They probably love Star Wars more than you do. MK is the author of The Disasters (2018), Spellhacker (2020), and other forthcoming novels.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Tumblr

The One True Me and You Review:

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“The One True Me and You” is a cute contemporary young adult romance with beauty pageants, cosplay, fanfic cons, and a queer romance.

What immediately caught my interest in the book is how the author captured the romance between the two characters. You wonder how someone like Kaylee and Teagan, who have nothing in common and come from two completely different worlds, would connect. But, the author makes their chemistry sizzling, and they are so well together. Their romance is like the classic teenage first crush romances where everything is new and exciting.

Many moments stood out for me, like when Teagen contemplates sneaking out to go to the con or when they share their first kiss. Both Kaylee and Teagan are endearing and will warm your heart with their story. It was also interesting to see the events’ repercussions and how they handle the situation when things don’t go as smoothly as they had hoped. Moreover, as they are in the closet, and the romance could jeopardize the relationship with their friends and family and their careers, it was entertaining to see what they would do. However, Teagan was my favorite, and I liked reading about her background and how useful she would find the scholarship money if she won.

Moreover, I also liked the setting of the pageantry and the fanfic cosplay worlds. I’m not familiar with either of them, so reading about how intricate the events can be was fun. The author also writes the story creatively, where we see parts of the conversations through text messages. Even the supporting characters like Jess and Ami are lovely.

Overall, I enjoyed reading “The One True Me and You” and thought it was a light-hearted and charming YA contemporary romance.

August 22, 2021
Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas

Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas

Release: May 11th 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Amulet Books
Source: NetGalley
Find it at: Goodreads, B&N , Indigo , Indiebound

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A moving middle-grade debut for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong

Brian has always been anxious, whether at home, or in class, or on the basketball court. His dad tries to get him to stand up for himself and his mom helps as much as she can, but after he and his brother are placed in foster care, Brian starts having panic attacks. And he doesn’t know if things will ever be “normal” again . . . Ezra’s always been popular. He’s friends with most of the kids on his basketball team—even Brian, who usually keeps to himself.

But now, some of his friends have been acting differently, and Brian seems to be pulling away. Ezra wants to help, but he worries if he’s too nice to Brian, his friends will realize that he has a crush on him . . .
But when Brian and his brother run away, Ezra has no choice but to take the leap and reach out. As such, Both boys have to decide if they’re willing to risk sharing parts of themselves they’d rather hide. But if they can be brave, they might just find the best in themselves—and each other.

About the Author:

Chad Lucas has been in love with words since he attempted his first novel on a typewriter in the sixth grade. He has also worked as a newspaper reporter, communications advisor, freelance writers, part-time journalism instructor, and parenting columnist. A proud descendant of the historic African Nova Scotian community of Lucasville, he lives with his family near Halifax, Nova Scotia. He enjoys coaching basketball and is rarely far from a cup of tea. Thanks a Lot, Universe is his debut novel.

Website | Twitter | Instagram

Thanks a Lot, Universe Review:

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“Thanks a Lot, Universe” is a heart-warming young adult story about two people who come together even though their life is out of sorts.

The author’s style of writing is simple yet effective and moves at a nice pace. You don’t notice the time fly by once you start reading. The author also touches on crucial issues like bullying and anxiety as Brian experiences this. I also liked the inserts like Brian’s preparation lists.

Speaking of whom, I adored Brian. My heart went out to Brian after what happens to him because of his father. There are some scenes where he gets emotional after hearing his dad’s messages that broke my heart. He wants the Universe to owe him a good year for whatever he has gone through, but he still finds it broken. Similarly, Ezra is trying to sort over his feelings and trying to find himself.

The author also wrote the chemistry between Brian and Ezra beautifully. From their ride together as they talk about the library to how guilty Ezra gets when he sees Victor with Brian, there is never a dull moment. The two of them go through many emotions as they become involved in each other’s lives. I adored reading about their story. The story takes quite a few twists and turns, especially when Gabe becomes more prominent. On a side note, I also loved Emma and Brittany and their sassy attitude. Even Kevan, Colby, and Ty were fun in the supporting cast.

Overall, “Thanks a Lot, Universe” is like a breath of fresh air. It stands out for its realistic depiction of characters and their struggling emotions.

August 15, 2021
Like a Love Song by Gabriela Martins

Like a Love Song by Gabriela Martins

Release: August 3rd 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Underlined/Delacorte
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes and Noble , Book Depository , Indigo , IndieBound

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This debut paperback original romance follows a Latina teen pop star whose image takes a dive after a messy public breakup, until she’s set up with a swoon-worthy fake boyfriend.

Fake boyfriend. Real heartbreak?

Natalie is living her dream: topping the charts and setting records as a Brazilian pop star…until she’s dumped spectacularly on live television. Not only is it humiliating—it could end her career.

Her PR team’s desperate plan? A gorgeous yet oh-so-fake boyfriend. Nati reluctantly agrees, but William is not what she expected. She was hoping for a fierce bad boy—not a soft-hearted British indie film star. While she fights her way back to the top with a sweet and surprisingly swoon-worthy boy on her arm, she starts to fall for William—and realizes that maybe she’s the biggest fake of them all. Can she reclaim her voice and her heart?

About the Author:

GABRIELA MARTINS is a Brazilian kidlit author and linguist. Her stories feature Brazilian characters finding themselves and love. She was a high school teacher and has also worked as a TED Ed-Club facilitator, where she helped teens develop their own talks in TED format to present. She edited and self-published a pro-bono LGBTQ+ anthology (KEEP FAITH) with all funds going to queer people in need. When she’s not writing, she can be found cuddling with her two cats, or singing loudly and off-key.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Like a Love Song Review:

“Like a Love Song” is a charming contemporary young adult romance with an interesting preface, and I enjoyed reading it.

This book is one of those that makes you warm and fuzzy. Even though you know what to expect, it still gives you a feel-good vibe. I enjoyed the concept of fake dating and how the two main leads came together because of it.

The author wrote the connection between Natalie and William sweetly. While they don’t start as the best of friends, I enjoyed how their feelings for each other changed throughout the story. I enjoyed the moments as they go on their picnic date or William’s behavior when Natalie sees him on the plane. Moreover, I enjoyed how the author portrayed their high-profile jet-setting lifestyle, making this book feel larger than life. It felt like a great form of escapism where I thought we got backstage access to how these stars lived their lives in front of the spotlight and how their dating life affected their careers.

The supporting characters like Brenda and Padma are also adorable. I loved how supportive they are with Natalie during her ups and downs. Even Bobbi and Ashley are entertaining. I also have to give kudos to the author for the character representation. Natalie is Brazilian, and I loved the author’s angle in being true to her heritage. As the author is also Brazilian, you can see traces of how she added her personality into the character. On a side note, I also adored how she includes Portuguese phrases in the book to make it authentic, like when Natalie talks to her grandmother.

Overall, “Like a Love Song” is a sweet young adult contemporary love story, which stood out for me because of its setting.

Giveaway (Us Only):

One winner will receive a finished copy of Like a Love Song. The giveaway starts on August 2^nd and ends on August 9^th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Like a Love Song by Gabriela Martins Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

August 2nd
Lost in Neverland – Review
Ace Reader – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read Like a Love Song
clouded galaxy reads – Review

August 3rd
Stuck in Fiction – Interview
perusewithcoffee – Review

August 4th
Pages & Plots – Review
Books With Michelle – Review & Top 5 Read Like a Love Song
Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

August 5th
Kait Plus Books – Interview
Nine Bookish Lives – Promo
Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

August 6th
The Book Dutchesses – Review
thisbellereadstoo – Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
heylittlesiren – Review

August 7th
Love, Paola – Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
Fueled By Chapters – Review & Mood Board

August 8th
The Ink Slinger – Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read Like a Love Song
With Love, Saoudia – Review
Little Corner Reads -Top 5 Reasons to Read Like a Love Song

August 6, 2021
Like Other Girls by Britta Lundin

Like Other Girls by Britta Lundin

Release: August 3rd 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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“What if I played football?” I ask. As soon as it’s out of my mouth, I feel stupid. Even suggesting it feels like I’ve overstepped some kind of invisible line we’ve all agreed not to discuss. We don’t talk about how Mara is different from other girls. We don’t talk about how Mara is gay but no one says so. But when I do stuff like this, I worry it gets harder for us all to ignore what’s right in front of us. I direct my gaze to Quinn. “What do you think?”
“I think it’s frickin’ genius,” he says.

After getting kicked off the basketball team for a fight that was absolutely totally not her fault (okay maybe a little her fault), Mara is dying to find a new sport to play to prove to her coach that she can be a team player. A lifelong football fan, Mara decides to hit the gridiron with her brother, Noah, and best friend, Quinn-and she turns out to be a natural. But joining the team sets off a chain of events in her small Oregon town-and within her family-that she never could have predicted.

Inspired by what they see as Mara’s political statement, four other girls join the team. Now Mara’s lumped in as one of the girls-one of the girls who can’t throw, can’t kick, and doesn’t know a fullback from a linebacker. Complicating matters is the fact that Valentina, Mara’s crush, is one of the new players, as is Carly, Mara’s nemesis-the girl Mara fought with when she was kicked off the basketball team. What results is a coming-of-age story that is at once tear-jerking and funny, thought-provoking and real, as Mara’s preconceived notions about gender, sports, sexuality, and friendship are turned upside down.

Britta Lundin’s sophomore novel will give readers all the feels, and make them stand up and cheer.

About the Author:

Britta Lundin is a TV writer and author. She’s written for shows such as Riverdale, Betty, and The Big Leap and is the author of the young adult novels Like Other Girls (out August 2021) and Ship It. . A longtime fanfiction reader and writer, she can track her life milestones by what she was shipping at the time. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives with her wife and their dog and lemon tree in Los Angeles.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Tumblr | Goodreads | Amazon

Like Other Girls Review:

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To begin with, I loved the theme of the story and found it refreshing to what we usually get in the Young adult genre. The author gives us a ploy of school and sports but focusing on a strong female lead. Moreover, the lead character is gay, so she goes through many emotions in the tale to find herself. The situation doesn’t help her when she has to grow up in a small religious town. Even if you strip away all of that, this is still a beautiful story of how to fit in, find the right crowd, and support one another when hard times.

Mara was a complex character, and I think the author portrayed her perfectly. It is natural for us to see her frustrations when society has other expectations for her. Nevertheless, she stands tall and does what she wants, and follows her dreams, whether others like it or not. The author also adds in some drama on Carly, Noah, and Quinn. While I enjoyed her scenes with Carly, Quinn turned out to be a person I despised. Even Tayley and Valentina were nice.

Moreover, I loved how the author did not digress the story’s theme by sidetracking unnecessary romance. Even though we see a spark between Mara and Jupiter, the author balances the two tastefully. It was also interesting to see the dynamics she has with her parents when they learn about her passion for sports. On top of it all, the author adds purely sports scenes that add to the excitement.

Overall, “Like Other Girls” is a lovely contemporary young adult novel that will make you laugh, cry and get excited about football.

Giveaway:

3 winners will receive a finished copy of LIKE OTHER GIRLS, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Like Other Girls by Britta Lundin Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:
Tween 2 Teen Book Reviews-Review-8-1-2021
BookHounds YA -Excerpt-8-2-2021
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-8-3-2021
Kait Plus Books-Excerpt-8-4-2021
Lifestyle of Me-Review-8-5-2021
onemused-Review-8-6-2021
booksaremagictoo-Review-8-7-2021

Week Two:
EveryonesLibrarian-Review-8-8-2021
@curlygrannylovestoread -Review-8-9-2021
BRITTREADSALATTEBOOKS-IG Post-8-10-2021
A Bookish Dream-Review-8-11-2021
Nonbinary Knight Reads-Review-8-12-2021
Unconventional Quirky Bibliophile-Review-8-13-2021
Fyrekatz Blog-Review-8-14-2021

Week Three:
@coffeebooksandmascara -Review-8-15-2021
Midnightbooklover-IG Post-8-16-2021
A Gingerly Review-Excerpt/IG post-8-17-2021
The Bookwyrm’s Den-Review-8-18-2021
@drewsim12-Review-8-19-2021
Adrianna.reads-Review-8-20-2021
Mallory Books-Review-8-21-2021

Week Four:
GivernyReads-Review-8-22-2021
popthebutterfly-Review-8-23-2021
@pagesofyellow -Review-8-24-2021
My Fictional Oasis-Review-8-25-2021
Perusewithcoffee-Review-8-26-2021
The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-8-27-2021
Eli to the nth-Review-8-28-2021

August 3, 2021
It Ends in Fire by Andrew Shvarts

It Ends in Fire by Andrew Shvarts

Release: July 6th, 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Little Brown/Patterson
Source: TBR and Beyond Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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ALKA CHELRAZI IS ON A MISSION:
1. Infiltrate Blackwater Academy
2. Win the Great Game
3. Burn Wizard society to the ground

As a child, Alka witnessed her parents’ brutal murder at the hands of Wizards before she was taken in by an underground rebel group.

Now, Alka is deep undercover at the most prestigious school of magic in the Republic Blackwater Academy, a place where status is everything. And where filthy rich galas end in blood splattered duels, where every student has their own agenda. To survive, Alka will have to lie, cheat, kill, and use every trick in her spy’s toolkit. And for the first time in her life, the fiercely independent Alka will have to make friends in order to recruit the misfits and the outcasts into her motley rebellion.

But even as she draws closer to victory , to vengeance , she sinks deeper into danger as suspicious professors and murderous rivals seek the traitor in their midst, and dark revelations unravel her resolve. Can Alka destroy the twisted game without becoming a part of it?

About the Author:

Andrew Shvarts is the author of the Royal Bastards trilogy. Besides, he has a BA in English Literature and Russian from Vassar College. And he works for Pixelberry Studios, making mobile games like High School Story, Choices, and more. Andrew lives in San Jose, California, with his wife, son, and two cats. .

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

It Ends in Fire Review:

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To begin with, I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. I liked reading about Alka’s journey right from the beginning as she embarks on her mission. She goes undercover as Alayne and gets into Blackwater Academy to get revenge on the people who murdered her parents.

Moreover, the author also wrote the world-building very fluidly, which makes it easy to understand the rules of the Academy and the Wizards’ rules and get engrossed in the storylines. I particularly loved the parts when Alka participates in the challenges to ensure that House Nethro wins. It was interesting to see how she uses her tactics to outsmart others. Moreover, the author also narrates the story creatively by toggling between the past and the present. We see how Alka and her sister Sera suffered in the past and why Alka undergoes the mission. My heart went out to them both in specific parts and made me root for the Alka passionately.

Speaking of which, the author also wrote Alka nicely. She is courageous, strong, and determined to accomplish what she targets. I also enjoyed her interactions with the side characters like Marlena, Talyn, Fyl, and Calfex. and the action and adventure. The author also balances the story well with some YA romance, with some surprising LGBTQ+ elements that I did not expect. I thought the author captured the tone and emotions of the characters very nicely. At the same time, you have characters like Aberdeen and Marius that you immediately grow to despise.

Perhaps this is the first book of a series because the climax felt like we could expect to see the characters again, revolving around the Republic. Overall, “It Ends in Fire” is a gripping young adult fantasy that I enjoyed reading.

Book Tour Schedule:

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on It Ends in Fire by Andrew Shvarts Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Book Tours.

July 6th
tbrandbeyond – Promo Post
thebookdutchesses – Blogger’s Choice
djreadsbooks – Blogger’s Choice
justiceforreaders – Blogger’s Choice

July 7th
shelflove123 – Blogger’s Choice
books_over_everything – Blogger’s Choice
yourwordsmyink – Blogger’s Choice

July 8th
simplybeccamee – Review
ninebookishlives – Blogger’s Choice
planners.and.paperbacks – Blogger’s Choice
bookdragonstbr – Blogger’s Choice

July 9th
confessionsofayareader – Blogger’s Choice
rajivsreviews – Blogger’s Choice
popthebutterfly – Blogger’s Choice

July 10th
fangirlpixiebooks – Promo Post
stuck.in.the.stacks – Blogger’s Choice
thindbooks – Blogger’s Choice
idreaminbooks – Blogger’s Choice

July 11th
dhirviepages – Review
feliciareads11 – Blogger’s Choice
gwendalyn_books_ – Blogger’s Choice

July 9, 2021
Erebus Dawning by A.J. Super

Erebus Dawning (Seven Stars Saga, #1) by A.J. Super

Release: May 11, 2021
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Aethon Books
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible

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“Those who can destroy a world can control the universe.”

Everyone wants the Star of Erebus. Space-pirate Nyx Marcus is no exception. With it, she can prove to her father that she is worthy of his legacy. But she’s come up empty-handed aboard the space-ship Thanatos and now Malcam, her father’s First Officer, is mutinying. As Nyx flees with a loyal skeleton crew, she discovers that the planet-killing weapon, named after one of the seven gods, is more than what it seems. Erebus isn’t a simple weapon, but an ancient AI and a technological god.

With the oppressive Queen of the Protectorate and new pirate captain Malcam searching for the Thanatos and Erebus, the AI god has more surprises for Nyx. Waking dormant AI code in Nyx’s blood, Erebus reveals they are family and Nyx is the head of the Seven Stars pantheon. But while Nyx’s only choice is to protect Erebus, she wants no part of her AI responsibilities. Now Nyx must learn to control her power without sacrificing her own humanity or give her enemies a new way to oppress the known universe and lose the family she holds dear.

About the Author:

Angela Super earned two Bachelors’ degrees from the University of Idaho in the Creative Writing and Theater programs. She has been an author since she was old enough to write (and illustrate) a stapled-together ABC book, which she still has packed away in a box of childhood memorabilia. Currently, she lives in Kansas with her husband who is a High School Graphic Arts Teacher and two fuzz-brained kittiots. She loves to make costumes, cosplay, and occasionally she plays D&D or MTG with teacher-friends during summer vacation.

Angela is inspired by Ursula K. LeGuin’s The Dispossessed and her two feisty grandmas, and she devours sci-fi and fantasy in every medium. She is an active member of the Twitter writing community, and also works with several amazing writing groups, frequently getting to read and critique wonderful unpublished work.

Website | Twitter |Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Erebus Dawning Review:

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People who read my reviews know that I am not an avid reader of science fiction and space operas. There are very few books that hold my interest in the genre, and needless to say, I loved “Erebus Dawning.”

There are so many unforgettable moments in this book! Firstly, let me start with the plot. While the first few pages were bumpy, I had no trouble getting into the world. I felt like I was beside Nyx and aboard with the rest of the crew of Thanatos as they encounter space pirates, diffuse bombs, and fight for their lives. The author fills the book with enough action, adventure, romance, and tech-savvy space drama that kept me entertained.

More than the action and adventure, I enjoyed the characters. Nyx is exciting in the lead as she tries to find the Star of Erebus and how it changes her life. I loved the scenes she shares with Kai and how he helps her with her journey. Similarly, there is the character you love to hate like Malcam and The Queen. The author takes the story to another level where we get introduced to AI characters. Moreover, the highlight of the story for me was Nyx’s interactions with Nue-Erebus. Similarly, I also enjoyed Nyx’s interactions with Matthews.

The story ends satisfyingly, making you look forward to the sequel to see what happens. I hope we learn more of the backstory between Nyx and her father, as I felt the author didn’t touch on it much in this book. Overall, “Erebus Dawning” is a beautiful start to the series, and I am for the next installment!

Giveaway:

Giveaway Details:
1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon GC, International

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Erebus Dawning (Seven Stars Saga, #1) by A.J. Super-Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:
Rockstar Book Tours-Kickoff Post-5-31-2021
Two Chicks on Books-Dream Cast-6-1-2021
Jaime’s World-Excerpt-6-2-2021
Jaimerockstarbooktours-Instagram Post-6-3-2021
Curlygrannylovestoread -Top 5 Books & Movies-6-4-2021

Week Two:
TLC Book Nook-Excerpt-6-7-2021
Hurn Publications-God of Bounty Short-6-8-2021
Jazzy Book Reviews-God of War Short-6-9-2021
@pagesofyellow-Review-6-10-2021
The Momma Spot-Review-6-11-2021

Week Three:
Lady Hawkeye-Review-6-14-2021
@lexijava_bookish -Excerpt-6-15-2021
A Dream Within A Dream-Excerpt-6-16-2021
Simply Daniel Radcliffe-Review-6-17-2021
The Obsessed Reader-Book Playlist-6-18-2021

Week Four:
Fire and Ice-Review -6-21-2021
Living in a Bookworld-Guest Post-6-22-2021
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review -6-23-2021
hauntedbybooks-Review-6-24-2021
cindysloveofbooks-Review-6-25-2021

June 24, 2021
The Lucky List by Rachael Lippincott

The Lucky List by Rachael Lippincott

Release: June 1, 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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From the #1 New York Times bestselling co-author of Five Feet Apart comes a gripping new romance, perfect for fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda.

Emily and her mum were always lucky.
But Emily’s mum’s luck ran out three years ago when she succumbed to cancer. And nothing has felt right since.
Now, the summer before her senior year, things are worse than ever. Emily has wrecked things with her boyfriend, Matt. And her dad is selling the house she grew up in and giving her mum’s belongings away. Blake is the only stranger girl she has to talk to since she and her dad moved back to town five seconds ago.

But that’s when Emily finds the list – her mum’s senior year summer bucket list – buried in the back of her closet. When Blake suggests that Emily take it on as a challenge, the two set off on a journey to tick each box and help Emily face her fears over losing her connection to her mum. As she starts to feel closer to her mother, so too does Emily’s bond with Blake deepen into something she wasn’t expecting.
And suddenly, Emily must face another fear: accepting the secret part of herself she never got a chance to share with the person who knew her best.

A captivating, heartfelt love story about learning who you are and who you love when the person you’ve always shared yourself with is gone.

About the Author:

Rachael Lippincott was born in Philadelphia and raised in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She holds a BA in English writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She currently resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, splitting her time between writing and running a food truck with her partner.

Her debut novel, FIVE FEET APART, is a #1 NYT Bestseller.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads | Amazon

The Lucky List Review:

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What a stunning solo debut “The Lucky List” was! I adored the story from the first page and didn’t want Em and Blake’s scenes to end.

It’s been a while since I read a good contemporary young adult story that touched my heart and spoke about various topics like losing a loved one, coming out, and finding your place in life. I loved the concept of the story where Em tries to hang on to her mother’s feelings by redoing the list that her mom had, hoping it will get her over the sadness.

More than Emily, I loved Blake and thought she was the highlight of the story. She has an incredible zest for life and is not afraid to live it to the fullest. I loved the impact she has on Emily to check off the items on the list. Most of the challenges are a bit risky but still puts a smile on your face. My favorite one was with the tattoo and when they jump into the lake. Just like Em, I also felt a sense of adrenaline rush and wondered if I should start my lucky list (even though I’m already in my 30s – but hey, it’s never too late to fulfill your dreams, is it?)

I also loved the supporting characters in the tale. Moreover, the author doesn’t paint anyone as good or bad. Everyone has their pros and cons, and I could connect with them all. For instance, I loved Em’s complex relationship with her father regarding moving on, her friendship with Kiera, and her shaky relationship with Matt. It was interesting to see how Em dealt with all her feelings.

Overall, “The Lucky List” is adorable, and I loved it! I hope the author writes many more such books.

Giveaway:

3 winners will receive a finished copy of THE LUCKY LIST, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Lucky List by Rachael Lippincott Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post, and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:
YA Books Central-Interview-5-24-2021
Stuck in the Stacks-Review-5-24-2021
BookHounds YA-Interview-5-25-2021
Kait Plus Books-Pre-made Guest Post-5-25-2021
Book-Keeping-Review-5-26-2021
The YA Obsessed-Review-5-26-2021
A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-5-27-2021
Moonlight Rendezvous-Review-5-27-2021
booksaremagictoo-Review-5-28-2021
Book Briefs-Review-5-28-2021

Week Two:
Do You Dog-ear?-Review-5-31-2021
Celiamcmahonreads-Review-5-31-2021
Lisa Loves Literature-Review-6-1-2021
Emelie’s Books-Review-6-1-2021
Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers-Review-6-2-2021
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-6-2-2021
Eli to the nth-Review-6-3-2021
Simply Daniel Radcliffe-Review-6-3-2021
Thindbooks-Review-6-4-2021
Margie’s Must Reads-Review-6-4-2021

June 2, 2021
If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales

If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales

Release: December 7 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Source: Netgalley
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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“If This Gets Out is an absolute showstopper. Equal parts edgy and adorable, this bright, joyful book has everything I look for in a queer YA romance.” —Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us

Eighteen-year-olds Ruben Montez and Zach Knight are two members of the boy-band Saturday. It is one of the biggest acts in America. Along with their bandmates, Angel Phan and Jon Braxton, the four are teen heartbreakers in front of the cameras and best friends backstage. But privately, cracks are starting to form. Their once-easy rapport is straining under the pressures of fame. And Ruben confides in Zach that he’s feeling smothered by management’s pressure to stay in the closet.

On a whirlwind tour through Europe, with both an unrelenting schedule and minimal supervision, Ruben and Zach come to rely on each other more and more, and their already close friendship evolves into a romance. But when they decide they’re ready to tell their fans and live freely, Zach and Ruben start to truly realize that they will never have the support of their management. How can they hold tight to each other when the whole world seems to want to come between them?

About the Author:

Sophie ‘sGonzales’s birth and growth were in Whyalla, South Australia, where the Outback Meets the Sea. She now lives in Melbourne, where there’s no outback insight, but slightly better shopping opportunities. Sophie loves punk music, frilly pink skirts, and juxtapositions.

Sophie has been writing since the age of five when her mother decided to help her type out one of the stories she had come up with in the bathtub. They ran into artistic differences when five-year-old Sophie insisted that everybody die in the end, while her mother wanted the characters to go out for a milkshake.

Since then, Sophie has been completing her novels without a transcriptionist.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

If This Gets Out Review:

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I had mixed feelings about this book. While I enjoyed reading it, I was a bit disappointed. I loved “Only Mostly Devastated” by the author when I read it last year and had high expectations for “If This Gets Out.”

Don’t get me wrong. The story is still very entertaining. I loved reading the back-end drama of the band, the antics of Angel, and the romance between Ruben and Zach. The author has a fantastic talent for writing YA romance, and I loved the chemistry between the two. She knows how to connect the readers to the characters, and I felt like I could relate to them. Frankly, I loved Zach more than Ruben as I thought he had many layers to him. I also enjoyed Zach’s relationship with his mother and the challenges they face for her to accept him.

The author sets up the pace nicely, where we see the difficulties public figures face when they are in a closeted relationship. Ruben and Zach are striking personalities that spark the pages, and I loved their scenes together. Some of the memorable moments were when they go sightseeing in Amsterdam or when Angel hangs on to his life.

However, as I mentioned earlier, I didn’t feel this was as good as “Only Mostly Devastated,” only because the story strays quite a bit. At times, I thought the plot did not progress anywhere, and we were reading random situations the band encounters. Moreover, some scenes felt repetitious, like when the band answers interview questions.

Apart from that, “If This Gets Out” was still entertaining to read. It is a cute young adult contemporary novel with charming characters that will entertain you.

April 23, 2021
Lonely Receiver by Zac Thompson

Lonely Receiver by Zac Thompson

Release: April 20, 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: AfterShock Comics
Source: Netgalley
Find it at Goodreads, Kindle, B&N

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A Horror/Breakup Story in Five Parts

Catrin Vander, a lonely video producer, buys an Artificial Intelligence partner. The AI partner is to become an integral part of her life. After ten years together, her holographic wife suddenly disconnects without warning. The breakup drives Catrin to the point of near insanity. She’s alone for the first time in years and reeling from a loss she can’t comprehend.

Set in the new future, drenched in pastels and sunshine, LONELY RECEIVER is a horror/breakup story in five parts. The writer is Zac Thompson, author of THE REPLACER, HER INFERNAL DESCENT, No One’s Rose, X-Men, and the illustrator Jen Hickman. (MOTH & WHISPER, Test).

About the Author:

Zac Thompson is a writer born and raised on Prince Edward Island, Canada. He’s written titles like Marvelous X-Men, Cable, and X-Men: Black for Marvel Comics. Along with indie books such as Her Infernal Descent, Relay, and The Replacer.

In 2019, Zac became the showrunner of the Age of X-Man universe at Marvel Comics. HorrorDNA called his critically acclaimed miniseries, Come Into Me, the best horror comic of 2018. Also, his debut comic series, The Dregs, was called “lowbrow brilliant” by New York Magazine. Zac’s novel, Weaponized, was the winner of the 2016 CryptTV horror fiction contest.

Website | Twitter |Instagram | Goodreads

Lonely Receiver Review:

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Firstly, I must applaud the creators of this graphic novel for coming up with a creative, futuristic story covering many issues like love, obsession, depression, and addiction. The illustrations are gorgeous, and I loved the weird offerings of the eccentric images each panel had to offer. The story also takes place in a futuristic society that feels so close to home, where you wonder if it could become a reality. On a side note, I loved the unique ways in which the authors end each volume, whether it be a user manual of Phylo or journal entries of Catrin.

Secondly, the characters are also memorable. Catrin is one of the most complex characters I have read lately, and her emotional character was truly impressive. She is desperate, impulsive, and unpredictable, so you don’t know how the story will turn out. The storyline was engrossing, particularly when Hazel comes into the picture and how she impacts Catrin’s life. I was thoroughly enjoying this novel up until 2/3rd into the book.

However, the story had too many convolutions for me to follow towards the end. At some point, I did not know what was happening and followed the tale only to admire the imagery. Furthermore, I also found it odd to see many pictures of Catrin naked, which felt unnecessary. I can imagine how the authors were taking it, but unfortunately, I missed the climax. However, I did appreciate the story for making me think about the purpose of our being. It raised questions about how our lives would be in the future if we happen to live in such a world.

Overall, “Lonely Receiver” is unique science fiction, horror romance worth checking out if you are a fan of the genre.

April 23, 2021