My Book Reviews

Category: Romance

This category contains any posts published in reference to books of Children’s Fiction genre.

Among the Beasts & Briars by Ashley Poston

Among the Beasts & Briars by Ashley Poston

Release: October 20th 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Harper Collins
Source: The Book Terminal
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N , Indiebound

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Cerys is safe in the kingdom of Aloriya.

Here there are no droughts, disease, or famine, and peace is everlasting for the past hundreds of years. This is ever since the first king made a bargain with the Lady who ruled the forest that borders the kingdom. But as Aloriya prospered, the woods grew dark, cursed, and forbidden. Cerys knows this all too well: when she was young, she barely escaped as the woods killed her friends and her mother. Now Cerys carries a small bit of the curse—the magic—in her blood, a reminder of the day she lost everything. The most danger she faces now, as a gardener’s daughter, is the annoying fox who stalks the royal gardens and won’t leave her alone.

With the newly crowned queen, however, things long hidden in the woods descend on the kingdom itself. They force Cerys on the run, her only companions the small fox from the garden, a strange and powerful bear, and the magic in her veins. It’s up to her to find the legendary Lady of the Wilds and beg for a way to save her home. But the road is darker and more dangerous than she knows, and as uncovered secrets from the past come to light amid the teeth and roots of the forest, it’s going to take everything she has just to survive.

About the Author:

Ashley Poston loves dread pirates, moving castles, and starry night skies.
She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BA in English, and went on to work at both Kodansha USA and Bloomsbury Publishing. But the dazzling bright lights of New York City couldn’t keep her away from old country roads, so she moved back home to pursue a full-time writing career.

Her books have been on the Indie Next List multiple times, and have been featured in Teen Vogue, Seventeen, Entertainment Weekly, Hypable, and Buzzfeed, among others. She has also been a Goodreads Choice Finalist in 2017 for Geekerella, and a semi-finalist for The Princess and the Fangirl in 2019. She also has a critically-acclaimed space opera series, the Heart of Iron duology, which was named on 2019’s Rainbow List.
When not writing, she plays Dungeons and Dragons and writing fanfic. She lives in South Carolina with her bossy cat, and they are firm believers that we’re all a bunch of weirdos looking at other weirdos, asking for their username.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

Among the Beasts & Briars Review:

I loved this story! It is like a fairy tale mixed with fantasy wrapped in magic and sprinkled in romance. I could not put it down.

To begin with, the author paces the story wonderfully from the first chapter, as Cerys and her father set out to witness a Coronation. What follows is a magical twist of events where Cerys, Fox, and Vala go on a dangerous journey to save the kingdom. There are so many unexpected moments in the story. For instance, I loved the scenes when Seren and Wen show up as deformed creatures and attack the group in the woods. I also loved Fox’s back story and how the visions he has of the past.

Similarly, I just adored the scenes with Fox and Cerys as they get to know each other. Both of them face insecurities and feel they are cowards for running away from the events. The author wrote them in a perfect manner where you fall in love with their friendship. Fox is hilarious with his snarky retorts. Additionally, Vala also stands out as the supporting bear who imparts wisdom to the cast. The villain will shock you too in the climax.

Moreover, apart from friendship, I loved the message of courage in the story. The author beautifully highlights that even if you acted in a cowardly manner in the past, it is never too late to change yourself and be brave in the future. After reading this book, I am eager to check out the author’s previous novels.

Overall, “Among the Beasts & Briars” is one of those books that a reader of any age group would enjoy.

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Among the Beasts & Briars by Ashley Poston Blog Tour hosted by The Book Terminal.

Book Tour Schedule

10/19 –

What She Will Read – Introduction

10/20 –

Writing The Universe – Review

Basement Bookcase – Review / Fav Quotes

Polish & Paperbacks – Review / Nail Art

10/21 –

Mary Had a Little Book Blog – Review / Fav Quotes

The Elven Warrior – Mood Board

Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

10/22 –

Rattle the Stars – Review / Mood Board

Belle’s Archive – Review / Fav Quotes

The Writer’s Alley – Review / Playlist

10/23 –

The Bursting Bookshelf – Review

Books in the Skye – Review / Fav Quotes

10/24 –

Ashleigh’s Bookshelf – Review

Rin’s Reads – Review / Dreamcast

October 21, 2020
Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray

Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray

Release: August 4, 2020
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Source: Love Books Tours
Find it at: Amazon

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January Sanders grew up believing karma was more reliable than an imaginary higher power. But after suffering her worst heartbreak in 29 years, she’s open to just about anything, including taking a temporary position at her aunt’s church. Keeping her lack of faith a secret, January’s determination to use her photographic memory to help Grace Community’s overworked staff, all while scraping herself off rock bottom.

What she doesn’t count on is meeting the church’s handsome and charming guitarist, who not only is a strong believer but has also dedicated his life to Christian music. It’s a match set for disaster, and yet January has no ability to stay away, even if it means pretending to have faith in a God she doesn’t believe in.

Only this time, keeping secrets isn’t as easy as she thought it would be. Especially when she’s constantly running into her aunt’s landscape architect, who seems to know everything about her past and present sins and makes no apologies about pushing her to deal with feelings she’d rather keep buried.

Torn between two worlds incapable of coexisting, can January find the healing that’s eluded her or will her resistance to the truth ruin any chance of happiness?

About the Author:

Tammy L. Gray lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas, even the erratic weather patterns. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include the 2017 RITA Award-winning My Hope Next Door and show her unending quest to write high-quality, culturally relevant stories with relatable and flawed characters. When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life. This text refers to the paperback edition.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Love and a Little White Lie Review:

Reading this book was like tasting cotton candy at the carnival. It just makes you feel good all over.

Click to view on Instagram

The author hooked me to the story from its unique setting from the first page itself. Jan is running away from her past and her storyline immediately intrigued me. Initially, the author introduces a lot of characters Cameron, Brent, Nate, Eric, Thomas, Dillon, and Ralph that took time to adjust with. But as the story progresses, you get to know all of them. More than Jan, I loved Dillon in the story. He has a realistic, no-nonsense attitude but immediately captures the reader’s heart.

There are so many instances that stood out for me. I loved the scenes where Jan goes to read for Ms. Cox, and how she tries to save Ralph and Victoria’s marriage. Jan is a sweet character who is trying to find her way in life. And let’s not forget the main highlight of the story, Jan and Dillon. In fact, I felt conflicted between Dillon and Cameron because I loved Jan with both of them initially. What’s really interesting about this book is that there are no negative characters as such. All the characters you meet are very charming and have valid reasons for behaving a certain way. Moreover, I liked Darcy’s character and her history with Cameron. Similarly, I also loved Jan’s relationship with Doreen.

However, at times the story felt a bit slow and repetitious. While I loved Jan’s romance with the leads, there were times when it lagged. But apart from that, this turned out to be a wonderful, feel-good romance that just puts a smile on your face.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray Blog Tour hosted by Love Books Tours.

Courtney.and.her.books – 19th Oct – Review
Tangents and Tissues – 19th Oct-Review
Mrs LJ Gibbs – 19th Oct-Review
Bookwormcheryl – 19th Oct _ Review
Orchard Book Club – 20th Oct-Review
Rajiv’s Reviews – 20th Oct-Review
Bookread2day – 20th Oct-Review
Mandy W87 – 20th Oct-Review
Just a Girl Who Loves to Read – 21st Oct-Review
Celeste C. Cruz – 21st Oct-Review digital
Booksaremybestfriendz – 21st Oct-Review
Daisy Says – 22nd Oct-Review
Mummy Life and Books – 22nd Oct-Review
Jajaborquiline – 22nd Oct-Review digital
Reading_with_rio – 22nd Oct-Review
Duck Face Kim – 23rd Oct-Review
Frost magazine – 23rd Oct-Review
Jane Hunt Writer – 23rd Oct-Review
Novelle Novels – 23rd Oct-Review
C is for Claire Reads – 24th Oct-Review
Blog – Lis loves books. Insta – Lis Laugh Love – 24th Oct – Review
Little Miss Book Lover 87 – 24th Oct-Review
The Book Reader – 24th Oct-Review
A Girl Who Loves to Read – 25th Oct-Review
Rhirhireader – 25th Oct-Review
This Early Bird Reads – 25th Oct-Review
Bookshortie – 25th Oct-Review

October 20, 2020
Breathless by Jennifer Niven

Breathless by Jennifer Niven

Release: September 29, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Knopf 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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Before: With graduation on the horizon, budding writer Claudine Henry is making plans: college in the fall, become a famous author, and maybe–finally–have sex. She doesn’t even need to be in love. Then her dad drops a bombshell: he’s leaving Claude’s mother. Suddenly, Claude’s entire world feels like a lie, and her future anything but under control.

After: Claude’s mom whisks them away to the last place Claude could imagine nursing a broken heart: a remote, mosquito-infested island off the coast of Georgia. But then Jeremiah Crew happens. Miah is a local trail guide with a passion for photography–and a past he doesn’t like to talk about. He’s brash and enigmatic, and even more infuriatingly, he’s the only one who seems to see Claude for who she wants to be. So when Claude decides to sleep with Miah, she tells herself it’s just sex, nothing more. There’s not enough time to fall in love, especially if it means putting her already broken heart at risk.

Compulsively readable and impossible to forget, Jennifer Niven’s luminous new novel is an insightful portrait of a young woman ready to write her own story.

About the Author:

Jennifer Niven is the New York Times bestselling author of All the Bright Places and Holding Up the Universe, as well as the popular Velva Jean series. She is also the author of several non-fiction books, including Ada Blackjack, The Aqua-Net Diaries, and The Ice Master, which was named a top non-fiction book by Entertainment Weekly. Also, her New York Times bestseller All the Bright Places is soon to be a major motion picture starring Elle Fanning. Although she grew up in Indiana, she now lives with her fiancé and literary cats in Los Angeles, which remains her favorite place to wander

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

Breathless Review:

“Claudine Henry. Thank you”
“For what?”
I sit up and look down at him, lying there. His eyes meet mine.
“For you.”

Breathless is beautiful like a gentle breeze after a turbulent storm. It’s bittersweet, sad, yet hopeful, romantic, and sweet and I loved it.

Click to view on Instagram

Words cannot express how this story had an impact on me. I recently lost a dear friend at the time when I was reading this story. I felt a strong connection to Claude because I could relate to her. Life is very unpredictable and you don’t know when your life would change unexpectedly. Initially, it is difficult to move on and look forward to anything. But, as time goes by, we remember the memories and start to move forward. I loved how the author interpreted this in the story.

But I digress. Coming to the plot, I loved every minute of it. Claude has wonderful chemistry with her mother and Jeremiah Crew. Although the story focuses on Claude, I loved how the author gives importance to the other characters to highlight their problems as well. At times, Claude is immature and impulsive, yet you see her grow and mature as the story progresses. Similarly, Saz, Wednesday, and Grady are interesting and added well to the storyline.

I have not read the author’s previous novel, but I desperately want to. She knows how to connect to the reader in an emotional manner. Moreover, this is not the traditional romance where you can predict how it will turn out. The characters will surprise you with their behavior, and it might not be what you hoped for. However, you can still understand their motives and root for them.

Overall, this is one of my favorite contemporary novels and one which I will cherish.

Giveaway Details:

3 winners will receive a Finished Copy of BREATHLESS, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Breathless by Jennifer Niven Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Two Chicks on Books-Review-9-21-2020
YA Books Central-Excerpt-9-22-2020
@ChristenKrumm-Review-9-23-2020
onemused-Review-9-24-2020
notinjersey-Review-9-25-2020
Kait Plus Books-Excerpt-9-28-2020
Word Spelunking-Review-9-28-2020
What A Nerd Girl Says-Review-9-30-2020
Eli to the nth-Review-10-1-2020
Becky on Books-Review-10-2-2020
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-5-2020
Do You Dog-ear?-Review-10-6-2020
Book-Keeping-Review-10-7-2020
Gimme The Scoop Reviews-Review-10-8-2020
Books Beans and Botany-Review-10-9-2020
BookHounds Ya-Review-10-12-2020
biancabuysbooks-Review-10-13-2020
Momfluenster-Review-10-14-2020
A Gingerly Review-Review-10-15-2020
two points of interest-Review-10-16-2020

October 20, 2020
Wolf Hunter Inquisition by Miller Thomas

Wolf Hunter Inquisition by Miller Thomas

Release: October 4, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Independently published
Source: Love Book Tours
Find it at: Amazon

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In the first place, waking to a macabre world filled with thirst, Danny Roberts finds himself a thrall to a vampire calling herself Mistress, compelled to bend to her every whim. A member of an organization called the Shepherds, Mistress keeps humanity safe from wolves, those who would harm the innocent and threaten the ancient peace between humans and Vampires. But all is not what it seems. Moreover, Change is coming, dark forces stir in the corners of reality, and time is growing short. In time, will Danny be able to overcome his own weakness and embrace his destiny or succumb to the power lurking in the shadows?
Only Time will tell…

“It’s a wonderful book.”…Miller Thomas has…”built a great world with characters worth caring about.” Suzanne Johnson-Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America and Romance Writers of America

About the Author:

An aspiring Indie author, Miller Thomas earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice, rekindling his love for writing from an early age after graduation. He works in data entry and loves reading (or telling) a good story to help him unwind. His first book was mystery and suspense and his latest is urban fantasy/sup.rom.

Amazon UK | Goodreads | Twitter | Instagram

Wolf Hunter Inquisition Review:

The.book.had.it ALL! It’s a crazy thrill ride of Vampires, Shapeshifters, magic and romance and I loved reading it!

The story starts off a bit slow but really picks up when Mistress and Danny escape from the Reverend Mother and High Chancellor. What follows is an amazing story as Mistress and Danny go on their journey and Danny learns more about his powers. The world building and rules of the Vampires, Sisters, Shepherds, etc. are intricately constructed. As you read the story, you can clearly see the vast details the author put into constructing the tale.

I enjoyed Danny in the lead. Danny faces his inner conflicts and tries to build confidence as he tries to save everyone against Tuzet. Moreover, I liked the chemistry between Danny and Mistress. They share a dynamic chemistry where Danny clearly likes her, and she tries her best to keep their relationship professional. I also loved the twists and turns the author provided in terms of the relationships. Just when you think Danny and Mistress are the end game, Danny is thrown with Dorottya and Libby. In fact, Libby’s and Sophia’s character surprised me because they come back with a bang towards the end.

Moreover, I loved the various powers that Danny uses to solve the case and go after the villains. Speaking of villains, there are so many of them, from Miguel to Kalazara to Tuzet. There was never a dull moment in the story. I also enjoyed Horus in the supporting role. He added a nice touch with behavior and going with them on their quest for Aniyah.

From Rome, Budapest, Prague and Las Vegas, this story takes you on an epic ride. Overall this was a wonderful book and I cannot wait to see how it continues!

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Wolf Hunter Inquisition by Miller Thomas Blog Tour hosted by Love Book Tours.

Rhiannons Bookworld – 12th Oct-Review
The Book Reader – 13th Oct-Review
Booklover Lily – 14th Oct-Review
Celeste C. Cruz – 15th Oct-Review
Lisa-Queen of Random – 16th Oct-Review
Chocolate ’N’ Waffles – 17th Oct -Excerpt
Rajiv’s Reviews – 18th Oct -Review

October 18, 2020
A Bachelors Pledge by Penny Hampson
A Bachelors Pledge by Penny Hampson

Release: September 23rd 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: PP&M Publishing
Source: Rachel’s Random Resources
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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The woman who haunts his dreams

Secret agent Phil Cullen rescued a young woman from Mrs Newbody’s establishment. He is upset when she absconds without a word. Phil thinks he has been deceived. He tries to forget about her, but it is not easy.

The man she wants to forget

Sophia Turner is horrified when she is duped into entering a notorious house of ill-repute. Then a handsome stranger comes to her aid. Desperate that no one learns of this scandalous episode, Sophia flees to the one friend she knows she can trust. With luck, she will never see her mysterious rescuer again.

But fate has other plans…

Months later, Phil is on the trail of an elusive French agent and Sophia is a respectable lady’s companion when fate again intervenes, taking their lives on a collision course.

their relationship is at first strained by doubts and suspicions, their trust to one another is not something easily won, they both will have to work for it.

Heart-warming romance combined with action-filled adventure make this third book in Penny Hampson’s Gentleman Series a must-read for all lovers of classic Regency fiction.

About the Author:

Penny Hampson graduated in History with honours from an Open University and went on to complete a post-graduate degree.

She got her dream role, working in an environment surrounded by rare books and historical manuscripts. After nineteen years, she pursued her other main passion writing. Also, three years later Penny published her debut novel, A Gentleman’s Promise, a traditional Regency romance. An Officer’s Vow came next, and will soon be followed by A Bachelor’s Pledge.

Penny is now exploring suspense and the supernatural. The Unquiet Spirit, a spooky contemporary mystery set in Falmouth, Cornwall will shortly be published by Darkstroke.

Penny lives with her family in Oxfordshire. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, swimming, and the odd gin and tonic .

Website | Twitter | Facebook |Goodreads

A Bachelors Pledge Review:

This was a sweet historical romance about searching for answers and falling in love along the way, and I enjoyed it.

The author draws the characters well in the story. Sophia is great in the lead as she tries to find answers to her family history. She also shares a wonderful chemistry with Phil and I liked how their romance progressed. Particularly, I loved the scenes where they unexpectedly reconnect in the Admiral’s presence. Also, I loved her friendship with Emmaline and the Admiral, and thought they made wonderful supporting cast. Similarly, Ruth Newbody and Jensen spice up the story as the negative characters, and I enjoyed the backstory as to why Newbody goes after Sophia.

Moreover, the author brings the story to life with unexpected twists and turns. The scenes where Sophia gets kidnapped, or when someone attacks Phil when he enters the house was unexpected and intense. On a side note, I also liked the historical references to Napoleon Bonaparte. Also, I was not aware of Governor Melvill prior to this story, so I liked that I learnt something new.

However, the only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars is because the story was quite bumpy in the beginning. As I have not read the previous books in the series, I really did not know if Sophia and Phil knew each other prior to this story or not. At times it feels like they share a history. If they didn’t, their instant romance threw me off. I didn’t get why Phil went out of his way to track Sophia and help her when he did not know her. But other than that, this story was very entertaining to read and I liked it.

1 Day Blog Blitz

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the A Bachelor’s Pledge by Penny Hampson Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources.
October 16, 2020
Christmas Reunion in Paris by Liz Fielding

Christmas Reunion in Paris by Liz Fielding

Release: October 13, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Harlequin Romance Larger Print
Source: Rachel’s Random Resources
Find it at: Amazon, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, Mills and Boon, Googleplay

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With the one that got away!

Celebrity chef James Harrington never expected to find himself face-to-face with Chloe, his first love, again… Especially with her working as a chambermaid at his luxury hotel! Their chemistry’s as strong as ever, but it’s clear she’s hiding a secret. This Christmas, can James convince Chloe that their love is worth taking a chance on—again?

About the Author:

Best selling author, Liz Fielding worked as a secretary in Africa, the Middle East and the UK before writing full time. Her award winning books are published worldwide in multiple languages and she has more than 15 million books in print.

Katie Fforde wrote, when honouring her with the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s Outstanding Achievement Award in 2019 said – “Liz Fielding’s books, with their warmth, humour and emotion, have charmed millions of readers. She is a true star of the romantic fiction genre…”

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

Christmas Reunion in Paris Review:

The author wrote the story in such a deliciously charming manner that you cannot help but fall in love with the story and the characters.

James and Chloe both stand out in their own manner. I liked how the author focused on communication to be the key in their relationship. James tends to make all the plans (with good intentions) and expects Chloe to just come on board instead of asking her. Chloe is also stubborn where she doesn’t want James to control her the way her father did. Both of them play off each other so well. Hugo and Sally are also wonderful in the leads, and it was so nice to see them supporting James and Chloe.

Moreover, I loved that most of the story takes place in Paris. We get a tour of the city along with James and Chloe as they reconnect. I also liked the storyline where they meet Marie and fall in love with the Chateau.

Another part that fascinated me was the backstory about the family history during the Civil War, and how it was the catalyst for Chloe not ending up with James. As James mentions, it felt like an episode of Downton Abbey and I just loved it. In fact, the entire storyline about Chloe and Eloise was gripping and I wanted to know more. However, my only disappointment was connecting with the same plot revolving Eloise. I wish there was some direction on that plot to kindle my interest as to what happened to her. Also, while the story was wonderful, at times it felt too sweet. There is no negative character to spice the story.

Overall, I loved this story and cannot wait to see how it continues.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Christmas Reunion in Paris by Liz Fielding Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources.

October 13, 2020
Forget This Ever Happened by Cassandra Rose Clarke

Forget This Ever Happened by Cassandra Rose Clarke

Release: October 6, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Holiday House
Source: TBR & Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N,TBD, Indigo

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Sometimes there’s a town called Indianola.
By the same token, sometimes there isn’t.
Summer, 1993. Claire has been dumped in rural Indianola, Texas, to spend her whole vacation taking care of mean, sickly Grammy. There’s nothing too remarkable about Indianola: On the negative side, it’s run-down, shabby, and stifling hot, a pin-dot on the Gulf Coast.
However, there is one remarkable thing, she discovers. Something which is outside her world.

But if you leave Indianola, you forget about it. On the contrary, if you stay, you have to live with it every day.
To put it in another way, there’s a confluence of energies at Indianola, a fissure in time and space, a gap in reality. Nothing looks as it seems. Claire can figure out this town, such as the talkative lizards under the pecan trees; the honey-sweet but terrifying girl next door and finally the cute daughter of a powerful family, who would answer Claire’s questions if she had any answers. With the pervasive sense of history coming unspooled, like a video tape, she might never leave.

Featuring a mindbending plot, heartfelt queer romance, brilliant writing, and intricate worldbuilding, Forget This Ever Happened is a lush and thrilling genre-bender perfect for the Black Mirror generation without doubt

About the Author:

Cassandra Rose Clarke’s work has been nominated for the Philip K. Dick Award, the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, the Pushcart Prize, and YALSA’s Best Fiction for Young Adults. She grew up in south Texas and currently lives in Houston . She writes and serves as the associate director for Writespace, a literary arts nonprofit. Cassandra holds an M.A. in creative writing from The University of Texas at Austin. In 2010 she attended the Clarion West Writer’s Workshop in Seattle. Her latest novel is Halo: Battle Born, out now from Scholastic.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads |Tumblr

Forget This Ever Happened Review:

This is probably one of the more bizarre, beautiful, and bewildering books I have read this year. It is simply amazing!

Click to view on Instagram

Immediately upon starting the story, I fell in love with the strange “Twin Peaks” like vibe it offered. Yes, I said Twin Peaks and not Stranger Things, because after all, the story IS set in the 90s! Weird monsters living in power plants and people losing their memories as they leave town? Take about creative!

Moreover, the author paces the story in a mesmerizing manner that makes you fall in love with the setting and characters. Claire, Julie, Grammy and Audrey are dynamic as the key players and I wanted to know more about them. Moreover the author alternates the story between Claire and Julie’s perspective, so it was interesting seeing the plot from a native vs. a ‘tourist’ perspective. On a side note, I felt like I was back in my childhood days in the 90s of VCRs, and Video Games. The references to movies, music, everything was just perfect!

One of my favorite scenes in the story is when Claire goes to see Audrey, and Audrey makes her play this strange maze game that makes her hypnotic and lost track of time. The scene is creepy and eerie and one of those scenes I won’t forget. Similarly, there is also the mystery element of who the monsters are, and what connection they have to the plot. Hence, as the story progresses, you slowly start to see how everything is connected.

Oh, and let’s not forget the sweet friendship/romance between Claire and Julie. Both of them are just adorable and I could not get enough of them. Overall, I loved this story a lot and I did not want it to end.

Giveaway (US Only):

Finished copy of Forget This Ever Happened. The giveaway ends on October 12^th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Forget This Ever Happened by Cassandra Rose Clarke Blog Tour hosted byTBR & Beyond Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

October 5th
TBR and Beyond – Welcome Post
Rajiv’s Reviews – Review
Kait Plus Books – Review, Favourite Quotes & Interview

October 6th
Yours A-fiction-ately – Review & Favourite Quotes
Stocked Up on Starbooks – Review
Storme Reads A Lot – Excerpt & Promotional Post
Julie Anna’s Books – Review & Book Look

October 7th
The Tattooed Librarian – Review, Favorite Quotes & Playlist
The Writer’s Alley – Review, Mood Board & Top 5 Reasons to Forget This Ever Happened
Mahkjchi’s Not-So-Secret Books – Review & Favourite Quotes

October 8th
Justice For Readers – Review, Mood Board & Interview
PopTheButterfly Reads – Review
Manic Femme – Top 5 Reasons to Read Forget this Ever Happened

October 9th
Forthenovellovers – Review
Fangirl Pixie Blog – Promotional Post
Page by Paige Books – Review, Mood Board & Top 5 Reasons to Forget This Ever Happened
Forever In A Story – Review, Favourite Quotes & Top 5 Reasons to Forget This Ever Happened

October 10th
Young at Heart Reader – Promo Post
Moonlight Rendezvous – Review & Favourite Quotes
Notes From a Paper Plane Nomad – Review, Favourite Quotes & Top 5 Reasons to Forget This Ever Happened
Lizzy Writes Reviews – Review

October 11th
Enthralled Bookworm – Interview
The Book Dutchesses – Promo Post
Paperback Jedi – Review, Favourite Quotes & Playlist

October 6, 2020
The King’s 100 by Karin Biggs

The King’s 100 by Karin Biggs

Release: July 26, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Immortal Works Press
Source: TBR & Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N,TBD

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Sixteen-year-old princess, Piper Parish, is a disappointment to the citizens of Capalon, a STEM-structured kingdom where innovation is valued above all. Her older sister, the queen, views Piper’s tears during their parents’ funeral as a weakness. However she also takes note of her strange affinity for singing. Meanwhile, Piper receives an anonymous note stating her mother is still alive and living in the enemy kingdom of Mondaria, Piper. She chooses to risk death and flees Capalon to prove once and for all that she’s not just the queen’s defective little sister.

Posing as a Mondarian citizen named Paris Marigold, Piper bumps into a cute black-haired boy named Ari . He encourages her to audition for the King’s 100, an esteemed performance court of singers, magicians, and drummers. Piper lands a spot as a singer. Taking help from an evil maestro, she dives head-first into a world of glittering dresses, girl-code, sugar, blackmail, and physical contact. Under Mondarian law, Piper will be killed if her identity is revealed. But living a life without the freedom to love might actually be the most dangerous risk of all.

About the Author:

Karin earned her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Purdue University and served as an event planner for two Big 10 universities and various non-profits for over eight years. Then she became a stay-at-home-mom. She enjoys chocolate-covered peanuts, uninterrupted sleep and singing with other people. Karin lives in Ohio with her husband, daughter, cat and dog.

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The King’s 100 Review:

I loved reading this story and could not put it down.

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Firstly, the setting is just amazing where you feel like you are reading a medieval book of castles and princesses, mixed with futuristic science fiction drones and robots. The author did a wonderful job in writing the story where it is light and fluffy, yet intense and gripping. I was intrigued by the whole concept of Piper going in disguise to find her mother, and getting into the Kings 100. Similarly, the story has its charming moments like when ‘Paris’ plays truth or dare with everyone. I also liked the drama between the maestro and Heather and Paris. Ari and Paris also make an adorable couple. Similarly, I also loved Piper’s friendship with Layla and Darden. In fact, Darden was one of my favorite characters with his no-nonsense attitude and helpful nature.

Additionally, I also enjoyed the complex relationship between Piper and Evelyn. There are some rare moments when you see a connection between them, but then Evelyn becomes tough. I would love a detailed history of their relationship in the sequel. For some reason, I also found Chip to be adorable with his snarky monotonous responses.

Probably the main thing which I felt could be better is a history of Capalon and Mondaria. The story focuses on plot from the get-go, but we really don’t get to see how the worlds exists and how they are connected. However, as the story ends with a cliffhanger, perhaps we will find out the connection in the next book. Overall, I loved this young adult, fantasy story and feel it’s the perfect book for younger readers to get into the genre.

Giveaway (US Only):

Finished copy of The King’s 100. The giveaway ends on October 6^th.

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Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the The King’s 100 by Karin Biggs Blog Tour hosted by TBR & Beyond Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

September 29th
TBR and Beyond – Welcome Post
Confessions of a YA Reader – Promotional Post

September 30th
Daydreaming Book Lover – Review & Favourite Quotes
Paper Ink & Lizard – Review
The Youngvamp’s Haven – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read The King’s 100
Stocked Up on Starbooks – Promotional Post

October 1st
Lauren’s Boookshelf – Review, Playlist & Favorite Quotes
The Skipped Prologue – Promotional Post
Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review
Young at Heart Reader – Promotional Post

October 2nd
Jessica Reads It – Review, Favorite Quotes & Top 5 Reasons to Read The King’s 100
Justice For Readers – Review, Playlist & Favorite Quotes
Fangirl Pixie Blog – Promotional Post

October 3rd
Storme Reads A Lot – Promotional Post
Personal Opinions of a Fangirl – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read The King’s 100
A Court of Coffee and Books – Review & Interview

October 4th
Mahkjchi’s Not-So-Secret Books – Promotional Post
Thorana Reads – Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read The King’s 100
One More Chapter – Review & Favourite Quotes
Get Happy Tees – Review
The Book Dutchesses – Review

October 5th
Sophie’s Reading Corner – Review, Mood Board & Top 5 Reasons to Read The King’s 100
Rajiv’s Reviews – Review
The Writer’s Alley – Review, Favorite Quotes & Mood Board

October 6, 2020
Fulfilment by Anne Stormont

Fulfilment by Anne Stormont

Release: May 6th 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Rowan Russell Books
Source: Love Books Tours
Find it at: Amazon UK

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The path of true love rarely runs smoothly…
When former Edinburgh police detective Jack Baxter met local author and crofter Rachel Campbell on the Scottish island of Skye, they fell in love. It was a second chance at happiness for both of them.
They both had emotional baggage. Jack helped Rachel cope with unimaginable grief after the death in combat of her soldier son. Rachel was there for Jack after a criminal with a grudge almost ended his life. There were many bumps along the road but they believed they’d worked through and settled their differences.

However, Jack is struggling. Still suffering from post-traumatic stress, his past haunting him, and demons of self-doubt daunting him, he feels Rachel deserves better.
Meanwhile, Rachel is busy preparing for the launch of her latest book – a book in honour of her son and aimed at promoting peace. So at first, she fails to notice just how troubled Jack is.
Given that, can Jack overcome his demons?
Can Rachel convince Jack he deserves to be loved?
Can they finally resolve their differences and fulfil their dreams together?

Fulfilment is the third and final part in Rachel & Jack: The Skye series.
It follows on from Displacement (book 1) and Settlement (book 2).
If you like mature, emotional and thought-provoking contemporary romance in a dramatic setting, then this is a book for you.

About the Author:

Anne Stormont was born in Scotland and although she has travelled all over the world – including a teaching exchange to South Africa, four trips to Australia and several visits to the Middle East – it’s where she still lives.
She began making up stories as a child in order to entertain her four wee sisters. But as an adult, being busy with motherhood and working as a teacher, it took a long time and a mortality wake-up call for her to get that first book written.

She’s a compulsive crossworder, yoga practitioner, avid reader, keen walker and enthusiastic gardener. She can be a bit of a subversive old bat, but she tries to maintain a kind heart. She also loves tea, penguins and being with her grandchildren.
Fulfilment is the third of the 3 books in the Rachel & Jack: Skye Series. Anne’s books are all set in Scotland and are contemporary romances where the main characters may be slightly older but are not necessarily wiser.
You can find out more about Anne and her books at her website anne-stormont.com

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Fulfilment Review:

I love this book and thought it was a wonderful conclusion to the series.

Firstly I loved how this book focuses more on Jack. I love reading stories where I can emotionally connect with the characters. In the previous novels, I loved Rachel’s character, but my heart went out to Jack in this one. The author wrote him in a wonderful manner where you see how he is struggling to get past his trauma. He suffers from PTSD after the incident with Tommy, and is doing his best to move forward. He struggles with nightmares and trusting people, and you just want the best for him. For me, Jack was the highlight of the story.

However, the story is not complete without Rachel. Although her character is not as compelling as Jack, I still enjoyed her storyline. One of the memorable scenes in the story is when Jack walks in on her in a compromising situation, which I did not expect. The author adds some very nice twists and turns to make the story memorable. Even the supporting characters like Bridget, Maddie, and Ailsa just add so well to the plot to help Jack.

While the story can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the entire series from the beginning to get the full experience of this beautiful, heartwarming tale. What I really love about this series is that the romance is actually a secondary plot, and the self-empowerment and confidence of the characters is the main focus. I adore this series because in a way it also inspires you to be better and be thankful and appreciate life.

Overall, Fulfillment is a perfect conclusion to the series and I really enjoyed reading it!

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Fulfilment by Anne Stormont Blog Tour hosted by Love Books Tours.

Tour Schedule:

Books ’n’ Banter – 28th Sept -Review
Undiscovered Scotland – 28th Sept-Review
Vicky Book and Family – 29th Sept-Review
Book Loving Science Teacher – 30th Sept -Review
Portobello Book Blog – 1st Oct -Review
The Book Reader – 1st Oct-Review
Jessica Belmont – 2nd Oct-Review
Being Anne – 3rd Oct -Review and Excerpt
Rajiv’s Reviews – 3rd Oct -Review
Daisy Says – 4th Oct-Review
B for Book Review – 4th Oct -Excerpt

October 3, 2020
The Cottage of New Beginnings by Suzanne Snow

The Cottage of New Beginnings (Welcome to Thorndale, #1) by Suzanne Snow

Release: September 3rd 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Canelo Escape
Source: Rachel’s Random Resources
Find it at: Amazon, Amazon UK

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One crumbling cottage. One broken heart. A chance to start over?
When Annie returns to Thorndale, the village where she spent much of her childhood, she’s looking for a new start. All she wants to do is fix up the cottage her godmother left her, and fix up her broken heart.

However, when she clashes with local hero, Jon, Annie can’t help but wonder if coming back to Thorndale was a mistake. For one thing, the village has clearly changed and the last thing she needs is more drama. But avoiding the distractingly handsome Jon is proving impossible, especially when Thorndale seems to be conspiring to throw them together…
Annie is looking for a fresh start with zero romance – but what if the only way to learn to trust again is to take a risk on love?
The perfect cosy romance for fans of Julie Houston, Victoria Walters and Trisha Ashley.

About the Author:

Suzanne lives in Lancashire with her family and loves to read. Amongst her favourite books are historical crime fiction and writers’ biographies. Suzanne enjoys cooking, walking, especially in the Lake District, and developing and planting gardens. She is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and the Society of Authors..

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The Cottage of New Beginnings Review:

This was a sweet and charming story and a nice start to the series.

I enjoyed Annie and Jon in the lead. Both of them face their own challenges and want to move on in life. Moreover, the author writes the story in a beautiful manner where you really root for Annie. Those who have gone through heartbreaks know it is difficult to move on with the fear of going through the pain again. I could relate to Annie’s dilemma to move on with her life and open her heart. Similarly, Jon is also a very sweet character for being patient with her, and I found his background of missionary work in Kenya interesting.

The supporting characters are also sweet like Elizabeth, and Sam. Sam is wonderful as Annie’s friend and throws sense into her and boosts her confidence. The author also wrote the romance between the two leads very well. I particularly enjoyed the scenes where Jon stays with Annie during the storm, or when they go out on their dinner date and get to know one another.

However, I wish there had been a bit more drama in the storyline. At times, the story felt too sweet and good and a tad predictable. It would have been interesting if there was a negative character to spice up the role a bit. Towards the end of the story, Niamh appears as a potential negative character, but nothing materialized.

Apart from that, this was a nice breezy read. On a side note, I love the gorgeous cover. Overall, The Cottage of New Beginnings is a charming romance and a good beginning to the Thorndale series.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the The Cottage of New Beginnings by Suzanne Snow Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources.

October 3, 2020