My Book Reviews

Category: Urban Fantasy

  • Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis

    Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis

    Bad Witch Burning

    Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis

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

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    For fans of Us and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comes a witchy story full of black girl magic as one girl’s dark ability to summon the dead offers her a chance at a new life, while revealing to her an even darker future.

    Katrell doesn’t mind talking to the dead; she just wishes it made more money. Clients pay her to talk to their deceased loved ones, but it isn’t enough to support her unemployed mother and Mom’s deadbeat boyfriend-of-the-week. Things get worse, when a ghost warns her to stop the summonings or she’ll “burn everything down.” Katrell is willing to call them on their bluff, though. She has no choice. What do ghosts know about eating peanut butter for dinner?

    However, when her next summoning accidentally raises someone from the dead, Katrell realizes that a live body is worth a lot more than a dead apparition. And, warning or not, she has no intention of letting this lucrative new business go.

    But magic doesn’t come for free, and soon dark forces are closing in on Katrell. The further she goes, the more she risks the lives of not only herself, but those she loves. Katrell faces a choice: resign herself to poverty, or confront the darkness before it’s too late.

    About the Author:

    Jessica Lewis is a Black author and receptionist from Alabama. She has a degree in English Literature and Animal Science (the veterinarian plan did not work out). She lives with her way-funnier-than-her grandmother, who answers all of her wild questions about ghosts and zombies and werewolves (even if she’s annoyed sometimes haha!). When she isn’t writing or working she enjoys watching cooking shows or HGTV-type home shows..

    Website | Twitter | Goodreads

    Bad Witch Burning Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    This book was creepy, twisted, emotional, and entertaining, and I loved reading it.

    To begin with, I enjoyed the premise of the story as Katrell uses her powers to make money. The highlight of the book was Katrell. My heart went out to her throughout the story. She needs to deal with deadbeats like Gerald and also protect her mom, and balance school. While things go as planned, Katrell soon realizes how her actions have devastating consequences surrounding the Revenants. For a young adult fantasy, the author wrote her so realistically. It was also interesting to see how her powers affected her mentally and physically.

    Moreover, Katrell and Will are so good together as they support each other over all the events that transpire. Also, I enjoyed Katrell’s scenes with Mike. On a side note, I found Conrad adorable irrespective of what happened.

    Similarly, I liked the author’s writing style because she creates an atmosphere of unease. Although there are some gory moments in the story, for the most time, the story has a sense of dread that something terrible will happen. The author also added a few surprising twists and turns that I did not anticipate. Some of them revolved around Gerald and Marquis. I was creeped out by some of the ramifications of how the people that Katrell brings back behave. At the same time, the author also focuses on Katrell, her family, particularly her complex relationship with her mother. The author paces the story nicely, which leads to an exciting climax.

    Overall, “Bad Witch Burning” is an emotional and exciting young adult fantasy with witches and magic.

     

    Book Tour Schedule

    Bad Witch Burning

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. 

    August 23rd
    Nine Bookish Lives – Promo Post
    The Litt Librarian – Review

    August 24th
    The Book Dutchesses – Promo Post
    The Broke Book Blog -Top 5 Reasons to Read Bad Witch Burning & TikTok
    Justice for Readers – Review, Mood Board

    August 25th
    Confessions of a YA Reader – Promo Post
    Kait Plus Books – Journal Spread
    AndOnSheReads – Review

    August 26th
    Devouring Books – Promo Post
    The Ink Slinger – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

    August 27th
    Stuck in Fiction – Promo Post
    Forthenovellovers – Review
    PopTheButterfly Reads – Review

    August 28th
    I Dream in Books – Fan Art
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review
    Sadie’s Spotlight – Promo Post

    August 29th
    HerBookishObsession – Review
    Monogamist Reader – Promo Post

     

  • Leaving the Shadows by Brooklyn Ann

    Leaving the Shadows by Brooklyn Ann

    Leaving the Shadows

    Leaving the Shadows by Brooklyn Ann

    Release: May 28th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Broken Angels
    Source: RABT Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    Lead guitarist and apprentice mage Sylvis Jagwolfe has always been the quiet member of Rage of Angels. She enjoys spending time with her bandmates. However, she treasures moments of solitude when it’s just her, a guitar, and the wolf that remains glued to her side lately.

    However, when battles against the Evil One’s horde accelerate, and her wolf turns out not to be a wolf, Sylvis discovers that she can’t remain in her shell any longer. She must emerge from the shadows, embrace her growing powers, and confront her awakening heart, or risk her side losing a critical alliance in the wars to come.

    About the Author:

    Formerly an auto-mechanic, Brooklyn Ann thrives on writing romance featuring unconventional heroines and heroes who adore them. Author of historical paranormal romance in her critically acclaimed “Scandals with Bite” series, urban fantasy in the cult favorite, “Brides of Prophecy” novels, and the award winning, “Hearts of Metal Series, she’s now writing the “B Mine” series, horror romances riffing on the 1970s and 1980s horror movies.

    Brooklyn Ann lives in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho with her gamer son, rockstar/IT Guy boyfriend, and four cats.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Google

    Leaving the Shadows Review:

    Vampires, mages, and Luminites made “Leaving the Shadows” an entertaining read.

    I have not read any of the previous books in the series, so I had no idea what to expect when I started reading “Leaving the Shadows.” I picked it up as I enjoyed the synopsis, and the cover looked interesting.

    The story did take me a while to adjust. Firstly, we have characters with complex names like Xochitl, Kerianne, and Sylvis. But, once I got past the first chapter, the story was pretty interesting. For me, the highlight of the story was Sylvis and Gabriel. I enjoyed how shocked Sylvis on how she meets Gabriel. The chemistry that the two share is exciting and was what hooked me to the story. The author also spices the story when Xochitl comes into the picture.

    The world-building is also fascinating. Since this is the first book I am reading of the series, I liked the concept of the luminite man, Nightwatch society, and the Lord Vampire. Moreover, the author also makes some scenes exciting, like when the Renfields attack or meet the Wurrak Healers.

    However, the downside to my reading experience is that the author references the previous books that just went past me. I felt this book was not sufficient to be read as a standalone. I would have probably appreciated this story much more had I read the series from the beginning. But I  am sure fans of the series will enjoy this continuation if even a newbie like me can enjoy it.

    Overall, “Leaving the Shadows” is a fun urban fantasy with vampires and shapeshifters, and it intrigued me to pick up the first book to see how it started.

    Book Blitz-2nd Aug:
    Leaving the Shadows

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Leaving the Shadows by Brooklyn Ann Blog Tour hosted by RABT Book Tours 

     

  • Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury

    Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury

    Blood Like Magic

    Blood Like Magic (Blood Like Magic #1) by Liselle Sambury

    Release: June 15th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound ,Indigo

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    A rich, dark urban fantasy debut following a teen witch who is given a horrifying task: sacrificing her first love to save her family’s magic. The problem is, she’s never been in love—she’ll have to find the perfect guy before she can kill him.

    After years of waiting for her Calling—a trial every witch must pass in order to come into their powers—the one thing Voya Thomas didn’t expect was to fail. When Voya’s ancestor gives her an unprecedented second chance to complete her Calling, she agrees—and then is horrified when her task is to kill her first love. And this time, failure means every Thomas witch will be stripped of their magic.

    Voya is determined to save her family’s magic no matter the cost. The problem is, Voya has never been in love, so for her to succeed, she’ll first have to find the perfect guy—and fast. Fortunately, a genetic matchmaking program has just hit the market. Her plan is to join the program, fall in love, and complete her task before the deadline. What she doesn’t count on is being paired with the infuriating Luc—how can she fall in love with a guy who seemingly wants nothing to do with her?

    With mounting pressure from her family, Voya is caught between her morality and her duty to her bloodline. If she wants to save their heritage and Luc, she’ll have to find something her ancestor wants more than blood. And in witchcraft, blood is everything.

    About the Author:

    Liselle Sambury is a Trinidadian-Canadian author who grew up in Toronto, and her brand of writing can be described as “messy Black girls in fantasy situations.” Also, in her free time, she shares helpful tips for upcoming writers and details of her publishing journey through a YouTube channel dedicated to helping demystify the sometimes complicated business of being an author. She is represented by Kristy Hunter at The Knight Agency..

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | YouTube

    Blood Like Magic Review:

    Click to View on Instagram

    There are so many reasons to appreciate this book. Firstly, I loved world-building in the tale. The author creates a futuristic view of Toronto, where we see the technology used in the character’s daily lives. Yet, the author also adds elements of magic to this futuristic landscape that made the story so captivating.

    Secondly, I loved how the author portrayed Voya’s family. Voya comes from a large family, and I loved the sense of community embedded with the plot. Whether it be Keis, Granny, Dad, or even Priya, you feel like you become a part of the Thomases, irrespective of how dysfunctional they are.

    Thirdly, I enjoyed the concept of the story. Voya needs to destroy her first love, or else her family will lose their ancestral magic. Voya is a beautiful protagonist you can immediately relate because she is flawed and makes mistakes. On top of all this, you also have the mystery of Elaine, which adds nicely to the plot. There is never a dull moment in the story, and the author builds the story, especially in the second half.

    The author also highlights the romance nicely! I adored Voya and Luc together. It was interesting to see how Voya controls her feelings, knowing what she has to do with Luc after one month. The chemistry they share is electrifying, whether they are in the flea market or NuGene.

    The only downside to the tale is how lengthy it is. As much as I love reading big books, it took me a good three chapters to get immersed in the story. However, once I got past the initial setback, I thoroughly enjoyed the tale.

    Overall, “Blood Like Magic” is a beautiful start to the series, and I cannot wait to read the sequel.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Blood Like Magic

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. 

    June 28th
    Betwixt The Sheets – Interview
    Cinelinx – Review
    Lore & Lullabies – Review, Playlist & Favourite Quotes

    June 29th
    Pages & Plots – Review
    Shelf Love – Create a Book Tag based on Blood Like Magic
    Justice For Readers – Review & Mood Board
    Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

    June 30th
    The Book Dutchesses – Review
    Inkhaven – Letter to Character
    sunnysidereviews – Review & Mood Board

    July 1st
    Quills and Stardust – Interview
    paperbacktomes – Review
    Books With Michelle – Favourite Quotes & Top 5 Reasons to Read Blood Like Magic
    Lost in Neverland – Review

    July 2nd
    Nine Bookish Lives – Review
    The Caffeinated Rareder – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Lousbookstuff -Favourite Quotes & Top 5 Reasons to Read Blood Like Magic
    Midsummer Night’s Read – Review

    July 3rd
    Kait Plus Books – Journal Spread
    The Written Journey – Review
    Emelie’s Books – Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

    July 4th
    Anotherbookworm – Interview
    Stuck in Fiction – Promo Post
    Whimsical Blessings – Top 5 Reasons to Read Blood Like Magic
    Read With Holy – Review
    Whispering Pages – Review & Favourite Quotes

  • The Mouth of the Dark by Tim Waggoner

    The Mouth of the Dark by Tim Waggoner

    The Mouth of the Dark

    The Mouth of the Dark by Tim Waggoner

    Release: September 6th, 2018
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Flame Tree Press
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    “A wild trip that keeps you wondering what the hell is going on, it’s an amazing experience. It is highly entertaining to read.” – Sci-Fi & Scary.

    Jayce’s twenty-year-old daughter Emory is missing. She finds herself in a dark, dangerous realm called Shadow that exists alongside our own reality. An enigmatic woman named Nicola guides Jayce through this bizarre world.  And together, they search for Emory, facing deadly dog-eaters, crazed killers, homicidal sex toys. And, worst of all, they face a monstrous being known as the Harvest Man. But no matter what Shadow throws at him, Jayce won’t stop. He’ll do whatever it takes to find his daughter, even if it means becoming a worse monster than the things that are trying to stop him.

    FLAME TREE PRESS is the new fiction imprint of Flame Tree Publishing. Launching in 2018, the list brings together brilliant new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices.

    About the Author:

    Tim Waggoner’s first novel came out in 2001, and since then, he’s published close to forty novels and three collections of short stories. He writes original dark fantasy and horror, as well as media tie-ins. His novels include Like Death, considered a modern classic in the genre, and the popular Nekropolis series of urban fantasy novels. He’s written tie-in fiction for Supernatural, Grimm, The X-Files, Doctor Who, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Transformers, among others. Also, he’s written novelizations for films such as Kingsman: The Golden Circle and Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. His writing articles have appeared in Writer’s Digest, Writer’s Journal, Writer’s Workshop of Horror, and Where Nightmares Come From.

    In 2017 he received the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in Long Fiction, and he’s been a finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award and the Scribe Award. His fiction has received numerous Honorable Mentions in volumes of Best Horror of the Year, and in 2016, the Horror Writers Association honored him with the Mentor of the Year Award. In addition to writing, he’s also a full-time tenured professor who teaches creative writing and composition at Sinclair College.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Mouth of the Dark  Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Mouth of the Dark” is a gripping horror novel that will grab your attention and not let go.
    The first thing which I loved about this story is Jayce. Jayce should win the award for the best dad of all time! He would go to any lengths to save this daughter, Emory, by literally plunging into the darkness. The author wonderfully wrote his character, and I was rooting for him throughout the story.

    Similarly, the author also wrote Jayce’s relationship with Nicola in a beautiful manner. They share a wonderful camaraderie, have many steamy moments, and have a bittersweet relationship. Moreover, the mystery of the Harvest Man also intrigued me, and I wanted to know what happened in Jayce’s childhood. On a side note, I even chuckled at some of the messages that Valerie impacts to Jayce. Valerie is a unique character because she plays a prominent part, even if she does not appear physically throughout the story. Even the Ohio Pig made me laugh with his crass behavior.

    However, some of the scenes are very graphic. While this would have turned me off to reading the story, I thought it fitted very well into this book’s theme. It is, after all, a book about darkness and shadows and things that scare you. Furthermore, the author had me glued to the pages with the concept of the “underborn” and the duplicates. This book was just fascinating. Also, the ending is one that I did not see coming. The climax is simply amazing as the team tries to defeat Ivory.

    Overall, I enjoyed reading “The Mouth of the Dark” and look forward to reading the author’s other novels.

  • Outfoxed by R.J. Blain

    Outfoxed by R.J. Blain

    Outfoxed

    Outfoxed (The Fox Witch #1)by R.J. Blain

    Release: November 3rd, 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Pen & Page Publishing
    Source: Xpresso Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, B&N, Kobo, Google Play.

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    Death is a way of life outside of the safety of Inner Tulsa, and Jade means to keep flipping Mother Nature off until old age claims her. Moreover, with one eye always on the sky, the last thing she needs is a pack of bounty hunters out for her living head. With no idea of why anyone would want her, her wits might keep her free, assuming she can resist the charming lures of Sandro, one of the men out to claim her as his own.

    Left with the choice of being the evening snack of a tornado or taking shelter with the bounty hunter, she does what she does best: she lives on the edge.

    Striking a bargain with the handsome bounty hunter buys her another day of life. Still, it also dumps her into the heart of a sinister plot, one meant to enslave the storm-tossed city residents—and the others brave and foolish enough to call the Alley home.

    About the Author:

    RJ Blain suffers from a Moleskine journal obsession, a pen fixation, and a terrible tendency to pun without warning.

    When she isn’t playing pretend, she likes to think she’s a cartographer and a Sumi-e painter. In reality, she herds cats and a husband and obeys the commands of Tsu Dhi, the great warrior fish.

    In her spare time, she daydreams about being a spy. Should that fail, her contingency plan involves tying her best of enemies to spinning wheels and quoting James Bond villains until she is satisfied.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Outfoxed Review:

    Outfoxed stands out as a unique fantasy because of how the author wrote it, and I liked it a lot!

    Firstly, I loved Jade in the lead. She is strong, independent, and has a snarky sense of humor. Similarly, the author wrote all the characters interestingly. The plot might be intense, but the cast balances it out with their dry wit and dialogues. Moreover, the world-building is easy to understand. The author does a brilliant job of explaining the commodities and Jade’s value to society.

    Additionally, I also loved the whole tornado angle to the tale. It made the story fresh by adding a new angle. The author also introduces many elements like mages, voodoo magic, witches, shifter, and much more as the story progresses. Hence, there was never a dull moment in the tale.

    However, the only thing that confused me about the story is the shift in direction. In the beginning, I thought it would be a thrilling ride as Jade tries to escape from Sandro and the other bounty hunters. The story was gripping when she faces Carlos and Anna. But, in the latter half, the plot felt more relaxed, like a comedy.

    Nevertheless, I enjoyed Sandro’s family. His mother is crazy, hilarious, and unpredictable. I couldn’t believe her reasons for luring Jade to her. I laughed out loud for the nicknames she gave her sons. Similarly, I enjoyed all the supporting characters like Brent, Noah, Anna, and Batbayar.

    Overall, Outfoxed is an exciting start to the series. I would pick up book two just for Jade and the humorous dialogues.

    Giveaway:

    Tour-wide giveaway (INT)

    • $50 Amazon gift card

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Outfoxed

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Outfoxed by R.J. Blain Blog Tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    November 2nd
    Ilovebooksandstuffblog >> Excerpt
    cupcakesandbookshelves >> Excerpt
    Ingrid’s Book Blog  >> Review
    The Reading Cafe >> Review

    November 3rd
    Adventures in Writing >> Excerpt
    What Makes Patri >> Review
    My Life Loves and Passions  >> Review

    November 4th
    BooksBooks&More >> Interview
    SJ Lem >> Guest post
    breen.rb >> Review
    Angel’s Guilty Pleasures >> Excerpt

    November 5th
    Ally Aldridge >> Interview
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews  >> Review

    November 6th
    The Avid Reader >> Review
    Archaeolibrarian – I Dig Good Books!  >> Review
    Damsel In The Bookland  >> Review

    November 9th
    Two Ends of the Pen >> Interview
    Lilly’s Book World >> Review
    Rajiv’s Reviews >> Review

    November 10th
    Airin’ My Dirty Laundry >> Review
    Jazzy Book Reviews  >> Review
    The Bouncing Tigger Reads >> Guest post

    November 11th
    411 ON BOOKS, AUTHORS, AND PUBLISHING NEWS >> Guest post
    Literary Gold >> Excerpt

    November 12th
    Journey in Bookland >> Review
    Lindsey Reads >> Excerpt
    The Eclectic Review >> Review

    November 13th
    Valerie Ullmer | Romance Author >> Excerpt
    Teatime and Books >> Excerpt
    Books A-Brewin’  >> Excerpt

  • Wild Dark Times by Austin Case

    Wild Dark Times by Austin Case

    Wild, Dark Times

    Wild Dark Times by Austin Case

    Release: July 23, 2019
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Liminal Books
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    Elizabeth Megalos , an art-school grad is disillusioned  and just manages as a bank teller in St. Louis in the summer of 2012. One evening, she’s attacked by a possessed coworker and saved by a mysterious, wise sorcerer named Eddy. He drags Elizabeth and Hugh, a skeptical scholar of the occult, to Europe. He introduces them to his three magical celebrity friends. Once there, Eddy explains the group’s mission: preventing a Demiurge—a creature out of Gnostic Christian mythology—from fulfilling the visions of doom in the Book of Revelation.

    The Demiurge has been drawing power from the misguided beliefs in the Mayan apocalypse and is set to start the destruction on Dec. 21st, 2012. Through ritual magic and a series of psychedelic experiences, the group learns that Elizabeth is the key to taking down the Demiurge, though she can’t imagine how she will be the one to stop Armageddon.

    About the Author:

    Austin Case received a Master’s Degree from the University of Amsterdam in Western Esotericism and Mysticism. His academic knowledge of the occult and other peripheral phenomena has given him a unique take on fantasy and other speculative fiction.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Amazon | Goodreads

    Wild Dark Times Review:

    If “Heroes” and “Supernatural” (two of my favorite TV shows) had a baby, it would be “Wild, Dark Times”. I loved reading it!

    The author did a brilliant job in writing this tale! The main aspect which I really loved about this story is intellectual conversations between the characters. For instance, I loved the conversations between Hugh, Albert and Elizabeth when they talk about various forms of art. Similarly, I also learned terms like Hermeticism and Gnosticism which fascinated me to research on after reading.

    Moreover, the author does a nice job in setting the plot. We know there is a bigger picture at hand, but it was entertaining receiving tidbits of the situation as Eddy initially explains it. As the story progresses, the author raises the stakes. Also, there are surprising twists and turns, and shocking deaths which I did not expect. The author also balances the tone well, where some scenes are a scary (like when Qlippoth attacked Elizabeth) to funny moments (how she reacts to Eddy’s information). I also liked the mystery as to how she is connected to the whole mission.

    At the same time, I liked Eddy and Elizabeth together. They share a wonderful camaraderie and it was fun reading their banter during their road trip/mission. In fact, Elizabeth shares a wonderful chemistry with all the members like Hugh and Albert. Veer and Frater were also interesting as supporting characters. However, my only small concern is, since the novel focuses on plot, I felt some characters felt underdeveloped. And, on a completely irrelevant note, what happened to Maya? I liked this goofy friend and hoped she stuck around longer.

    Overall, this was a fun and entertaining book which I could not put down.

    Giveaway:

    3 winners will receive a finished copy of WILD, DARK TIMES, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Wild, Dark Times

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Wild Dark Times by Austin Case Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule
    Week 1

    Two Chicks on Books – 7th Sept-Interview
    JaimeRockstarBookTours – 7th Sept-Instagram Post
    BookHounds – 8th Sept-Interview
    BookHounds – 8th Sept-Instagram Post
    TMBA Corbett Tries to Write – 9th Sept-Guest Post
    TMBA Corbett Tries to Write – 9th Sept-Instagram Post
    The Book Rookery – 10th Sept-Excerpt
    The Book Rookery – 10th Sept-Instagram Post
    Jaime’s World – 11th Sept-Guest Post
    The Phantom Paragrapher – 11th Sept-Excerpt

    Week 2

    Books A-Brewin’ – 14th Sept-Guest Post
    Books A-Brewin’ – 14th Sept-Instagram Post
    bookriot – 15th Sept-Review
    bookriot_edah – 15th Sept-Instagram Post
    Lisa-Queen of Random – 16th Sept-Review
    Lisa-Queen of Random – 16th Sept-Instagram Post
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews – 17th Sept-Review
    Reese’s Reviews – 17th Sept-Review
    Rajiv’s Reviews – 18th Sept-Review
    Rajiv’s Reviews – 18th Sept-Instagram Post

  • The Witch with Nine Lives by B. Austin

    The Witch with Nine Lives by B. Austin

    The Witch with Nine Lives (Dysfunctional Family of Witches #1) by B. Austin

    Release: August 27th 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Spellbound Books
    Source: Bewitching Book Tours
    Find it at: Amazon__

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    Medea turns into a cat at night, due to her mother’s curse. Her mother, Dima, has a shapeshifting stone. She is 130-years-old but appears to be 18, nearly the same age as her two daughters.

    Nikki works as a maid, rather than in the family witchcraft business of fortune-telling, seances, and other witchery-for-hire. She was born a Marilyn-Monroe lookalike. Despite her beauty, jealousy eats away at Nikki because her mother and sister have magic. Nor is Nikki allowed near the books of spells, enchantments, and potions Dima stole from Russian monks.

    Medea is tortured by a secret that can destroy the sisterly tie between her and Nikki.

    Unknown to her family, Nikki, is developing a magical gift which she cannot control, a sorcery that will threaten Medea and pit two powerful sisters against each other.

    About the Author:

    Belinda has fun creating both researched and original magic in her books. She grew up in New Mexico, a Southwestern state known as the Land of Enchantment with a long history of Native American and Spanish witchcraft. Growing up, she heard spell-binding tales about magic and real witches, magic sometimes witnessed by family members. Also, Belinda has a friend in Albuquerque who is a modern-day witch. Belinda is a former Software Engineer / Web Applications Developer. She has a degree in Applied Mathematics. She did not have to do research when it comes to dysfunctional families. Her father was a bigamist with two wives and two sets of children.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bookbub | Goodreads

    The Witch with Nine Lives Review:

    This is a totally unpredictable book of magic and mayhem, and is fun to read!

    The author writes the story in a crass, yet quirky manner. You don’t know where the story is going, because it is so different from what you usually read. Also, the author paints the backdrop of the 1950s nicely using references like “Marilyn Monroe”, “Bewitched Bothered and Bewildered” and “I love Lucy”.

    Moreover, the characters are eccentric, weird, and volatile, but also quite entertaining. I liked Madea’s skills of fortune telling, and the scenes where she conducts a séance to contact the grandfather, or when she sees the witch in the lake. Ralph was scary as the ghost, and how he fed off emotions to get stronger. However, Nikki is my favorite character. Nikki always feels inferior to Madea and Dima because she lacks the powers they have. So, it was interesting to see how she bonds with them and tries to fit in. The author also changes the roles of the stereotypes where we root for the witches and dislike the priests, like Father Oliver.

    However, while reading the story, I felt it lacked direction. At times, it just feels like random things happens to the girls and their experience of living like witches. Moreover, we don’t see much of Dima, which is unfortunate, because I really liked her in the prequel story. But story picks up towards the end when Nikki is suspected of murder and Ralph gets dangerous.

    Overall, the story was decent, and it was hilarious seeing the compromising situations Nikki and Madea find themselves in because of their ‘skills’.

    Giveaway:

    2 – $10 gift cards

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Witch with Nine Lives

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the The Witch with Nine Lives by B. Austin Blog Tour hosted by Bewitching Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule:

    Dark Whimsical Art – August 27
    Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read – August 27
    Paranormalists –  (Interview) – August 27
    Roxanne’s Realm – August 28
    The Book Junkie Reads – (Interview)  – August 28
    Midnight Musings with Bertena on Vocal – August 28
    T’s Stuff  – August 31
    Supernatural Central (Interview) –  August 31
    The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom – (Guest Blog) –   August 31
    Jazzy Book Reviews – September 1
    Uncharted Routes – September 1
    Lisa’s World of Books – September 1
    Fang-tastic Books (Guest Blog) –  September 2
    The Avid Reader (Review) – September 2
    Sapphyria’s Books –  September 2
    JB’s Bookworms with Brandy Mulder –  September 3
    Rajiv’s Reviews (Review) – September 3
    SImply Kelina – September 3
    bookriot (review) – September 3

  • Undying Witch by B. Austin

    Undying Witch by B. Austin

    Undying Witch

    Undying Witch by B. Austin

    Release: October 1, 2019
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Spellbound Books
    Source: RABT Book tours and PR
    Find it at: Amazon

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    The illegitimate granddaughter of Catherine the Great finds a shape-shifting stone. soon,she discovers the magic to be young and live forever. Years later, Dima’s teenage daughter resents a mother who is 112 years old but shifts into a woman young enough to be her sister.  Medea loathes a mother who loves her 17 cats more than she does her daughter. She also despises a mother who claims all witchcraft as her magic and treats her daughter like a slave. For this reason, Medea develops her own sorcery in secret

    About the Author:

    B. Austin grew up in the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico. She was told true tales of witches by her superstitious family. Before writing full time, she toiled in tech as a software engineer. She currently lives in Florida. She, also, writes under the name of Belinda Austin

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bookbub | Goodreads

    Undying Witch Review:

    This story is unique, quirky, and very weird, but strangely it works well. Its one of those books that you really don’t know what to expect, and surprises you in each chapter.

    What I really liked about Undying Witch was the author’s style of writing and her focus on details. Firstly, the book is pretty short, so you can read it in one sitting. There are a lot of things that happens with Dima (and Medea in Part 2) so you never feel like the story is boring at any point. Moreover, I loved the pop-culture references the author makes to movies like Lady Killers starring James Cagney. She really makes you feel like you are living in the era of the 1920s where the mafia was prominent, and there was an influx of immigrants from ships into the US. Also, I enjoyed Dima’s connection to the Romanov Family. The plot is completely original and will just hold your attention from page one.

    However, my only criticism towards the story was the magic element. Even after reading, I was not clear how Dima’s powers worked. At times, it felt like Dima could not control her powers using Pompeii, but at other times it felt like she was invincible. Also, while I enjoyed the strange schemes Dima and Medea concoct, at times I did not understand their reasoning behind these plans. Hence, this was actually one of those rare stories where I enjoyed reading purely on its plot, without having much investment on the characters. Its very hard to like either of the two characters when they are so devious. But, it is so interesting to see their schemes and tactics.

    Overall, “The Undying Witch” is certainly a strange but entertaining book to read.

    Giveaway:

    $10 Amazon Gift Card

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

     

    Undying Witch

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Undying Witch by B. Austin Blog Tour hosted by RABT Book tours and PR. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Virtual Book Tour – July 29 – August 13

    RABT Book Tours -July 29 -Kick Off
    I Love Books and Stuff – July 29 — Excerpt
    Rajiv’s Reviews – July 30 – Review
    Nesie’s Place – July 31 –Excerpt
    Book Reviews by Virginia Lee – August 1 – Spotlight 
    Nana’s Book Reviews – August 3 – Spotlight
    Book Junkiez – August 4 – Excerpt
    Novelty Book Designs – August 5 – Spotlight
    SK Gregory – August 6 – Review
    Momma Says to Read or Not to Read – August 7 – Spotlight
    Karma Readz – August 8 – Review
    Sylv.net – August 10 – Spotlight
    Jazzy Book Reviews – August 11 – Interview 
    Texas Book Nook – August 12 – Review
    Vallerie Ullmer – August 13 – Excerpt
    RABT Reviews – August 13 – Wrap Up

  • The Assassin’s Daughter by Shana Vernon

    The Assassin’s Daughter by Shana Vernon

    The Assassin's Daughter

    The Assassin’s Daughter (The Hybrid Chronicles Book 1) by Shana Vernon

    Release: July 15, 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Shana Vernon
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    I’ve been hiding from the Guild since I was born.
    If they knew about my magic, they would kill me in a heartbeat.
    I should be avoiding them, but instead, I enter the Guild as a regular human recruit.
    Why?
    Papa went missing after a mission, and I need answers.
    I realize I might have bitten off more than I can chew when my new instructor is the guy I kissed a few months before.
    It doesn’t seem like Cade recognizes me without my disguise, but if he does and blows the whistle, I’m as good as dead and so is Papa.     

    About the Author:The Assassin's Daughter

    Shana Vernon is a full-time writer and mother of triplet boys. When she isn’t writing or taking care of her kiddos, she is reading, exercising, experimenting with cooking, or traveling around the world.

    Sign up for Shana’s Newsletter!

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

    The Assassin’s Daughter Review:

    This is why I always love reading books by self-published debut authors. Sometimes they are SO much better than those mass produced books out there. “The Assassin’s Daughter” completely surprised me because I did not expect to love it so much! This book was amazing! It was like reading X-Men mixed with Kill Bill. I loved it!

    Click to view on instagram

    The first thing that stood out for me was the characters. Even though Lenna is the main character, I think this is one of those books where all the supporting characters were equally important. I loved Ryder, Sofia, Cade, Quinn and even Ekon. They were all so unique and entertaining in their own way. While I liked Lenna and her powers, I felt she really shined when she interacted with the others. But coming back to Lenna, she is awesome in the lead as she tries to investigate what happened to her father. Moreover, the suspense and the action is so gripping!  I usually find fights tedious in some stories, but this book had some of the best fights, as we see each character showcasing their powers.

    If I had to criticize on it, it would be only wanting to know more about Lenna’s past. But I guess the author is luring us to pick Book 2 when it releases. Can we have book 2 already please? I want to find out what happens to Lenna. What is her connection with Maximus? Why is Master Abbott so cruel towards her? What happens to Lenna and Cade? I cant wait!

    However, apart from that, this story was just a blast and so much fun to read. There are few vampire themed books that I consider close to perfect, and “The Assassin’s Daughter” is definitely in my top 3 memorable reads of this genre this year.

    Giveaway:

    1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon GC, International. Courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours.
    1 winner will receive an eBook of THE ASSASSIN’S DAUGHTER, International. Courtesy of Shana.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Assassin's Daughter

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the THE ASSASSIN’S DAUGHTER by Shana Vernon Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule