My Book Reviews

Category: Young Adult

This category contains any posts published in reference to books of Young Adult genre.

Contest Of Queens by Jordan H. Bartlett
Contest Of Queens by Jordan H. Bartlett

Release: January 18, 2022
Format: Paperback
Publisher: CamCat Books
Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible

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In a Queendom divided, can one girl unite the realms?

Jacs, an inventor’s apprentice from the Lower Realm, has only ever dreamed of the land among the clouds. That is until she finds a letter from Connor, an Upperite boy who sends a wooden boat into the abyss, hoping to learn more about the land below. Little does Jacs know, Connor is actually Prince Cornelius of the Queendom of Frea. With wooden boats and hot air balloons, the two begin a secret correspondence. But their friendship is impeded by a heavily-guarded bridge and an inescapable prejudice.

Their bond transcends distance and time, but when the royal family visits Jacs’ town of Bridgeport, the illusion of peace between the Realms dissolves, and the old feud is reignited.

Now, to save her people, Jacs must infiltrate the Upper Realm and earn her place to compete in the Contest of Queens. She must learn how to survive against the contests’ grueling tasks and within a political web she could not have imagined. In a story about friendship, love, bravery, and defying gravity, Jacs will strive to prove that a Queendom is strongest when united.

About the Author:

Jordan H. Bartlett is a New Zealand-born, Canadian Citizen with a love for children’s literature and female empowerment. She grew up reading books about boys for boys and found it hard to find a strong female heroine she could relate to. Bartlett wrote Contest of Queens to give young readers that character she so longed for in a world where gender norms are reversed. Bartlett currently resides in Banff, Alberta where she works as a Speech Language Pathologist and is a certified yoga instructor.

Website | Instagram | Goodreads

Contest Of Queens Review:

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This book rekindled my love for the young adult fantasy genre, and I adored everything about it.

Where do I begin with “Contest of Queens”? Everything about the book was just perfect, in my opinion. Let’s start with the two leads. Connor and Jacs are magnificent, and I loved their romance throughout the tale. The way they met each other by writing letters and getting separated by circumstances had me glued to the pages. I loved Jacs and her fascination with inventing new things. I also liked Conor for bearing the responsibilities and the courage to do the right thing. Both of them come from two different worlds yet share fantastic chemistry. My heart went out, especially to Jacs, when she did not hear from Connor after the incident.

Secondly, I loved the author’s writing style. The author details the settings and the characters with perfect details that make you easily visualize the story. The story’s second half is gripping, and I loved the author’s creativity in creating a unique set of tasks. The supporting cast is also entertaining, and I loved characters like Lena, Anya, and Master Leschi.

Thirdly, I loved the world-building and the concept of the Realms. The author adds a nice backstory (without giving away a lot of details) about the two realms. Even after reading the book, you know the author will reveal more of the backstory in the next book. Moreover, it was fun reading about the gender swaps like the Queendom and women reining the Queendom with men as their support. The story ends in an exciting cliffhanger, and I’m already impatient to wait until 2023 to read the sequel.

Overall, “Contest of Queens” is an AMAZING start to the series and easily one of the best YA books I read!

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Contest Of Queens by Jordan H. Bartletto Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.
- She Just Loves Books-July 6th
- The Page Ladies-July 11th
- David L Morgan-July 28th
- Geaux Get Lit-Aug. 3rd
- Rozier Reads and Wine-Aug. 4th
- Jennas Riverside Reads-Aug. 7th
- Rajivs Reviews-Aug. 10th
- Bookish Heidi-Aug. 11th
- Books and Coffee MX-Aug. 12th
- Page Turners and Sweet Tea-Aug. 17th
- Miss W Book Reviews-Aug. 21st
- Carol Doscher-Aug. 31st
- Subakka Bookstuff-Aug. 31st
August 10, 2022
A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek
A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek

Release: July 20th, 2021
Format: Paperback
Publisher: CamCat Books
Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, Kobo

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A million thoughts, but only one right thing to do.

Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates, and analyzes everything, all the time. Awkward. When her father suddenly disappears, Serenity follows his trail to a parallel dimension. The feds on the other side claim to want to help her go home, if she helps them reconstruct the right codes for the portal between worlds. But it’s soon clear they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.

When Serenity learns that her alter-ego was killed in battle, she assumes “the other Serenity’s” identity and uses her unique abilities to lead the resistance in a mortal fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not have a home to return to.

About the Author:

Bryan Prosek is a science fiction writer and business attorney. Along with his debut The Brighter the Stars and the forthcoming A Measure in Serenity, he has published books and articles in legal trade journals and magazines. When he isn’t writing or practicing law, you can probably find him watching science fiction movies or television shows. He loves the big screen and the small screen. There’s a good chance that he’ll be watching one of the numerous Star Trek movies or series, but he could be watching anything from Guardians of the Galaxy to The Conjuring. You can find more about Bryan at his website, www.bryankprosek.com, taking you to new worlds.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

A Measure Of Serenity Review:

“A Measure of Serenity” is a gripping, young adult science fiction novel that glued me to the main character and the storyline, and I could not put it down.

I just finished reading this book, and it is so good! Let me start with Serenity. I loved how the author portrayed her. Initially, she comes across as a genius with a photographic memory and high retention power. The author gives her no emotions except guilt as she thinks of her mother. But, as soon as Serenity enters the other world, I love how we see her exploring her feelings, feeling for others, standing up, and being brave to support the Resistance.

Secondly, I loved the concept of an alternate reality with similar people with different personalities. It was fun to see Serenity relate to Shawn and the chemistry they shared. Moreover, I loved the supporting cast who joined with Serenity, like Danica, Ma, and Todd. Each of them brought something new, and I especially adored Isaiah. The author adds a few thrilling twists you do not expect, and you wonder how Serenity can use her skills to escape it.

However, the travel concept was perhaps the only thing that boggled me about the story. I don’t want to give spoilers, but we see certain other characters go between realities different from Serenity, and I wondered how that was possible. I felt that the worldbuilding had a few minor loopholes that the author could have explained.

Apart from that, I loved this book! The story has an epic conclusion, and the ending still gave me goosebumps! I sure hope the author writes a possible sequel with these characters. Overall, “A Measure of Serenity” is a beautiful YA novel that makes you think.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.
- Bookoholic Cafe-June 12th
- Joannas Bookshelf-June 13th
- Rajivs Reviews-June 20th
- Subakka Bookstuff-June 25th
- Books and Coffee MX-June 30th
June 19, 2022
My Secret Admirer by Carol Ellis

My Secret Admirer (Point Horror, #4) by Carol Ellis

Release: November 1, 1989
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Published by Scholastic
Source: Amazon
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon

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Jenny is new in town. Her parents go away, leaving her all alone in an isolated house. The mountains surrounding the town loom ominously, guarding the secret of what really happened the day of Diana Benson’s accident. Then the phone calls start…

Jenny has a secret admirer, who courts her with sweet messages and flowers. But she also has an enemy, who chases her on a lonely road. Does she know too much about the ‘accident’ on the cliffs? and is there anyone she can trust?

Jenny has no one to turn to.

Except for her secret admirer…

But who is he?

About the Author:

Carol Ellis is an American author of young adult and children’s fiction. Her first novel, My Secret Admirer, was published in 1989 by Scholastic as part of their popular Point Thriller line.

She went on to write over fifteen novels, including a few titles in the Zodiac Chillers series published by Random House in the mid-1990s, and two titles in The Blair Witch Files series for young adults, published by Bantam between 2000 and 2001.

Amazon | Goodreads

My Secret Admirer Review:

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This book was ok and was pretty decent for a Point Horror novel. I liked some of the shocking scenes that the culprit uses to scare Jenny, especially the one involving Peaches. I also enjoyed the setting of Rimrock and the cliffs where the author adds in some thrills and adventure. The author sets the story nicely, in a classic horror setting, where a girl moves in with her family to a new place and has to spend the night alone while her parents are away, with creepy things happening as someone targets her.

However, I had mixed feelings about Jenny. At times, she was wise to set up booby traps in the house to prepare for predators. But, half the time, she was so dumb. She gets scared at the thought of someone attacking her, but at the same time, she falls for a secret admirer she never met, never considering the two might be connected. It also takes Jenny quite some time to figure out what is happening. Frankly, I liked Sally better than Jenny in the story because at least Sally sparked the pages with her conversations.

But, the reveal, in the end, was not as shocking as I thought it would be. Almost anyone who reads the book would be able to guess who is behind it, as we don’t have many characters on the canvas. There are also some characters with no closure to their storylines, and you wonder what they were doing there.

Overall, “My Secret Admirer” is a decent story if you love Point Horror and want to spend an afternoon with a book, but not a must-read.

May 5, 2022
My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

Release: April 19, 2022
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Amulet Books
Source: TLC Book Tours
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding

Zurika Damani is a naturally gifted violinist with a particular love for hip-hop beats. But when you’re part of a big Indian family, everyone has expectations. And those certainly don’t include hip-hop violin. After Juilliard rejects her, Zuri’s last hope is a contest for which a panel of top-tier college scouts is judges. The only problem? This coveted competition happens to take place during Zuri’s sister’s extravagant wedding week. And Zuri has already been warned, repeatedly, that she is not to miss a single moment.

In the midst of the chaos, Zuri’s mom is in matchmaking mode with the groom’s South African cousin Naveen. He just happens to be a cocky vocalist set on stealing Zuri’s spotlight at the scouting competition. Luckily Zuri has a crew of loud and loyal female cousins cheering her on. Now, all she has to do is to wow the judges for a top spot, evade her parents catching her, resist Naveen’s charms, and, oh yeah . . . not mess up her sister’s big fat Indian wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

About the Author:

Sajni Patel is the author of adult and YA debuts publishing in 2020. Her publication including The Trouble with Hating You is the first of two women’s fiction titles with Grand Central/Forever. Fabulous early buzz has been building. Apple Books has selected it for their “10 Debuts to Read” in 2020, and Publishers Weekly has called it a “fast-paced romp of a debut . . . the cultural specificity Patel brings makes this rom-com feel fun and fresh.” Her YA debut, The Knockout, was published in January 2021 from Flux. She currently lives in Texas.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding Review:

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“My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a beautiful young adult romance with an upbeat, festive feel, and I loved it.

The first thing that struck me in the tale is the wholesomeness of Zuri’s family. Even though Neha gets on Zuri’s nerves, with her parents’ high expectations for her and Zuri doesn’t want to follow in her sister’s footsteps, Zuri shares a close bond with her family where they all support each other. I loved how the author portrayed the family angle.

Secondly, I liked how the author made the story about Zuri and not an unnecessary romance between her and Naveen. While Zuri and Naveen share lovely chemistry, I appreciate how the author did not diverge the tale into an angsty love romance and focused on Zuri and the wedding. Naveen is also an interesting character, as you don’t know if he is trustworthy, particularly as he tries to psyche Zuri with the contest. However, he grew on me, and I found his South African background exotic.

Thirdly, I adored how grand the author set up the backdrop. As an Indian, I loved how accurately the author depicted the life of the American Indian (or even Indian Wedding) tradition, cultures, and the grand festivities of an Indian wedding. Moreover, I also loved the supporting characters and was a guest at the Pranit-Maitri wedding. Krish was also one of my favorite characters, and I loved her protective nature towards Zuri. Even the tiny moments that Zuri shares with her Masi were heartwarming and something that resonated with me.

Overall, “My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a fresh, young adult romance that I enjoyed reading, and I hope to read some of the author’s other works.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel Blog Tour hosted by TLC Book Tours.

Monday, April 18th: IG: @nerdybookmama
Monday, April 18th: TT: @bookwormbullet
Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @celiamcmahonreads
Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @noorthebookworm
Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @monikasbookblog
Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @rajisreviews
Thursday, April 21st: TT: @paperbackprince
Thursday, April 21st: TT: @thelifeofbooks
Friday, April 22nd: TT: @bookish_afrolatina and IG: @bookish_afrolatina
Friday, April 22nd: TT: @thatblondebookworm
Saturday, April 23rd: IG: @nsiabblog
Monday, April 25th: IG: @brianas_best_reads
Monday, April 25th: TT: @mamabeardteacher

May 5, 2022
Nova’s Blade by Will Scifi

Nova’s Blade: A Young Adult Dystopian Cyberpunk
by Will Scifi

Release: January 29, 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Independent Book
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at Goodreads, B&N, TBD, Bookshop.org

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THIRTY-TWO WOMEN. ONE ARENA. A BATTLE TO THE DEATH.

After a long war, corporations have replaced countries. Sports are fought to the death. The most popular game is Last Valkyrie, a live tournament where women kill each other for marriage into a powerful family.

For Nova, living in poverty with her mother and sister is a harsh reality that she cannot escape. But when she is kidnapped and forced to fight on the show, her world changes. If she refuses to fight, the bomb in her head goes off. Now winning means her freedom.

With death lurking at every moment, Nova has no idea if her next fight will be her last. But one thing she knows for certain: only one is making it out alive.

Perfect for fans of Hunger Games, The Selection, and The Princess Trials. You won’t want to put down this exciting page-turner!

About the Author:

Will Scifi is a pen name for an author from California. He loves reading and writing mainly science fiction that touches on themes surrounding American culture. He draws inspiration from the over 500 movies he has watched in the last 5 years, books, tv shows, and real life. When he is not writing, he can be found in the gym or watching movies at home or in the theaters. He thanks all of his fans for their support and highly encourages anyone who has read his work to always leave a review.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | BookBub

Nova’s Blade Review:

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“Nova’s Blade” is a thrilling dystopian Young adult novel that I enjoyed reading!

As a big fan of “Hunger Games,” I thought this book was very entertaining because of how the author executed it. While it gives the vibes of “The Hunger Games,” the author makes it stand apart because of Nova. I think Nova is aggressive and daring yet shows a side of vulnerability. I loved her complex sibling dynamics with Luna after the effects of what happened to their mother.

Moreover, the authors add a lot of action and excitement, especially once the match starts for the Last Valkyrie. The chapters glued me during the games with Athena, Pixis, Bellona, Hybris, and Elpis. Some moments just shocked me because of the gore, and even I thought it fit perfectly with the story’s theme.

There is also a touch of young adult romance as we see Nova fighting her feelings for Atlas and Octavian. I liked Octavian a more prominent in the second installment. In addition, I also loved Maximus (and even Flavius) as they supported Nova and trained her well. The story also ends in a shocking cliffhanger, which makes me look forward to reading the second book in the series!

Perhaps the only minor downside to the tale is, at times, that I felt there were too many characters on canvas. For instance, Tyrel only comes for a short time, and I thought he was initially exciting, but he disappeared in a short time.

Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed “Nova’s Blade,” and I eagerly look forward to the second book in the series.

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a finished copy of NOVA’S BLADE, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on Nova’s Blade: A Young Adult Dystopian Cyberpunk
by Will Scifi Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:
#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt-3-28-2022
The Book View-Review/IG Post-3-29-2022
Lady Hawkeye-Excerpt/IG Post-3-30-2022
Ravenz Reviewz-Excerpt/IG Post-3-31-2022
boozybook blog-Review/IG Post-4-1-2022

Week Two:
The Litt Librarian-Review/IG Post-4-4-2022
BookHounds YA -Review-4-5-2022
Lifestyle of Me-Review-4-6-2022
Karen Dee’s Book Reviews -Review-4-7-2022
Fire and Ice-Review-4-8-2022

Week Three:
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-4-11-2022
More Books Please blog-Review/IG Post-4-12-2022
The Reading Wordsmith -Review/IG Post-4-13-2022
Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-4-14-2022
@jaimerockstarbooktours-IG Post-4-15-2022

Week Four:
Two Points of Interest-Review-4-18-2022
@coffeesipsandreads-Review-4-19-2022
fictionologyst-Review/IG Post-4-20-2022
The Momma Spot-Review/IG Post-4-21-2022
@lexijava -Review/IG Post-4-22-2022

April 23, 2022
Vanish Me by Lee Matthew Goldberg
Vanish Me by Lee Matthew Goldberg

Release: February 10th, 2022
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Wise Wolf Books
Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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When former singer Nico Sullivan goes missing, her estranged daughter, Love, finds her mom’s old diary. Using each entry as a clue to her mother’s whereabouts, Love takes a trip to L.A. with her best friends Frankie and Caden and discovers that her feelings for Frankie may run deeper than she’s willing to let on.

While diving deeper into her mother’s old life, Love struggles with her own social insecurities and abandonment issues. But as she’s searching for lost parts of herself, Love also discovers something unexpected. A deep-rooted and shared love of 90s grunge music with that of her missing mother.

At turns heartbreaking, inspiring, and mysterious, Vanish Me is a portrait of a teenage girl desperate to find herself among the cracks her mother left behind.

About the Author:

Lee Matthew Goldberg is the author of eight novels including THE ANCESTOR and THE MENTOR, currently in development as a film off his original script, and the YA series RUNAWAY TRAIN. He was a nominee for the Prix du Polar. STALKER STALKED will be out in Fall ’21.

After graduating with an MFA from the New School, his writing has also appeared as a contributor in Pipeline Artists, The Los Angeles Review of Books, The Millions, Vol. 1 Brooklyn, LitReactor, Monkeybicycle, Fiction Writers Review, Cagibi, Necessary Fiction, Hypertext, If My Book, Past Ten, the anthology Dirty Boulevard, The Montreal Review, The Adirondack Review, The New Plains Review, Underwood Press and others. His pilots and screenplays have been finalists in Script Pipeline, Book Pipeline, Stage 32, We Screenplay, the New York Screenplay, Screencraft, and the Hollywood Screenplay contests. He is the co-curator of The Guerrilla Lit Reading Series and lives in New York City.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

Vanish Me Review:

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I have been following the “Runaway Train” Series from the beginning, and I must say that each book is exciting as the previous. In “Vanish Me,” the third installment, the author does not disappoint and shines with character development as Love grows up and learns many lessons.

To begin with, I loved how the author toggled between the past and the present, as we see Love going on her journey with Frankie and Caden and flashback to Nico’s diary entries as she struggles with motherhood. The author does not shy away from the emotions, and I loved how realistic he portrayed the characters. Nico is not someone I particularly liked, but I did understand her mindset. Similarly, I adored Love and how she yearns for her mother’s Love.

Moreover, the author also touches on the friendship dynamics, as Love struggles with her friendship with Frankie and Caden. While I loved the trio and their Love for 90210 and the 90s, it was exciting to see if their friendship would survive the journey or not. Even the supporting characters like Evan, Marjorie, Winter, and Delilah were memorable.

Also, I enjoyed the mystery element that the author adds where Nico sees an eerie shadow that chases her. I found the plot intriguing and wondered who it could be. However, the book fell a little short of five stars because I felt we did not get closure on this storyline. On a side note, I did enjoy the scenes where Nico goes to see Davina.

Overall, while I feel this may be the last book in the series, I hope the author continues to write more with these characters, as having read them for so long, I am not ready to let go of them yet.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Vanish Me by Lee Matthew Goldberg Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.
- Geaux Get Lit-March 22nd
- Rajivs Reviews-March 23rd
- Books Love And Understanding-March 23rd
- Bookoholic Cafe-March 24th
- Books and Coffee MX-March 24th
March 26, 2022
Rebellion by C.J.Listro

Rebellion by C.J.Listro

Release: February 15, 2022
Format: Paperback, eBook
Publisher: C.J. Listro
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo

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Perfect for fans of TWILIGHT, SUPERNATURAL, RIVERDALE, and Cassandra Clare.

Chloe is well aware that she’s ordinary. So, when bad-boy Tyler starts talking to her, she’s convinced he must have an ulterior motive. What she doesn’t suspect is that he’s actually a demon who escaped from Hell to live out his college-age dreams of going to concerts and playing in a punk-metal band. And that he actually likes her. Soon, swoons and romantic dates replace Chloe’s trepidation.

But as Chloe and her new friend Alicia are dragged deeper in Tyler’s world, they realize that many less-friendly demons roam the Earth too. And one of them is murdering girls—girls who look a lot like Chloe.

With the help of Tyler and a contingent of angels, Chloe and Alicia take the paranormal investigation into their own hands. Because if they don’t find out which demon is murdering girls soon, Chloe will be next.

About the Author:

C.J. Listro is a writer and dreamer who spends most of her time living in other worlds. She writes young adult and adult fantasy as well as adult transgressive literary and crime fiction. She lives in Chicago with one cat, five bookshelves, and far too many skull decorations.

C.J. graduated with her B.A. in Psychology and English from the University of Notre Dame. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Michigan State University. When she’s not analyzing fictional humans, she can be found providing therapy to real humans.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads | Amazon

Rebellion Review:

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Rebellion is an exciting fantasy novel with mystery, romance, and teen drama, and I had fun reading it.

Let me preface by saying that it has been a while since I read a good YA paranormal mystery romance. The highlight of the story was Chloe. I liked how the author portrayed her as she tried to make new friends and fit in. Moreover, I loved the supporting characters like Brad and Alicia. Alicia is excellent as a supportive friend, and I liked the touch of humor she brought to the plot.

Even the mystery element is well done. The author adds surprising twists where you wonder what will happen to Chloe next. The climax was on fire, and I questioned what would happen to her. Similarly, I also enjoyed the chemistry between Chloe, Tyler, and Brad. While I was not too fond of Tyler as a standalone character, I liked his dynamics with Chlor. On the other hand, I adored Brad.

Perhaps the only downside to the tale is how the story takes time to pick up. While I enjoyed how the author set up the mystery with Tyler (and you don’t know his intentions), things moved slowly in the beginning. It’s only in the second half where the plot glued me once we find out the nature of the characters.

Overall, Rebellion is an exciting start to the “Rebellion Chronicles” series, and I’m excited to see how the tale continues.

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a finished copy of REBELLION, US Only.

1 winner will receive an eBook of REBELLION, International.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:
Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post-3-14-2022
BookHounds YA -Guest Post-3-14-2022
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-3-15-2022
Sadie’s Spotlight-Excerpt/IG Post-3-15-2022
#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt/IG Post-3-16-2022
@meetcuteromancebooks-Excerpt/IG Post-3-16-2022
Fire and Ice-Review-3-17-2022
Lady Hawkeye-Excerpt/IG Post-3-17-2022
Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt-3-18-2022
Lifestyle of Me-Review-3-18-2022

Week Two:
Nonbinary Knight Reads-Review/IG Post-3-21-2022
@coffeesipsandreads-Review-3-21-2022
Book-Keeping-Review/IG Post-3-22-2022
Two Points of Interest-Review-3-22-2022
More Books Please blog-Review/IG Post-3-23-2022
Nagma | TakeALookAtMyBookshelf-Review/IG Post-3-23-2022
The Momma Spot-Review/IG Post-3-24-2022
A Backwards Story -Review/IG Post-3-24-2022
Lifestyle of Me-Review-3-25-2022
@jypsylynn -Review-3-25-2022

March 26, 2022
Take Her Down by Lauren Emily Whalen

Take Her Down by Lauren Emily Whalen

Release: March 15, 2022
Format: Paperback, eBook
Publisher: Independant
Source: Suzy approved Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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In this queer YA retelling of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, stakes at Augustus Magnet School are cutthroat, scheming is creative, and loyalty is ever-changing.

Overnight, Bronwyn St. James goes from junior class queen to daughter of an imprisoned felon, and she lands in the care of her aunt and younger cousin Cass, a competitive cheerleader who Bronwyn barely knows. Life gets worse when her ex-best friend, the always-cool Jude Cuthbert, ostracizes Bronwyn from the queer social elite for dating a boy, Porter Kendrick.

Bronwyn and Jude are both running for student body president, and that means war. But after Bronwyn, Porter, and Cass share a video of Jude in a compromising position, Jude suddenly goes missing. No one has seen her for weeks and it might be all Bronwyn’s fault.

Will Jude ever be found? Or will Bronwyn finally have to reckon with what she’s won―and what she’s lost?

Content Advisory: Depictions of sexual assault

About the Author:

Lauren Emily Whalen is the author of two books for young adults: the novel Satellite (2017) and the nonfiction book Dealing with Drama (2021). Her queer YA short story “I Saw Her Again” appears in the holiday ghost anthology Link by Link (2020). Lauren is a freelance writer, professional performer, and very amateur aerialist who graduated from Catholic school and is an unabashed devotee of the Bard. She lives in Chicago with her cat, Versace, and an apartment full of books.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

Take her Down Review:

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“Take Her Down” turned out to be an entertaining retelling of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, and I enjoyed it a lot.

The book is very different from what I usually read because of the subject. While I have read a few of Shakespeare’s works, Julius Caesar was not one of them. Yet, I feel tempted to read the play after reading this book because the storyline was just so juicy. It has all the teen drama elements with a touch of mystery.

Firstly, I enjoyed the LGBTQ representation and how fluid many characters are in their preferences. The author also nicely writes the characters’ dynamics, and I enjoyed Bronwyn, Cass, Jude, and Porter a lot. Even the character growth is admirable, and moments that stood out were when Bronwyn rationalizes over her guilt or

Secondly, I liked how the author wrote the story, in the form of acts, as if we were reading Shakespeare’s plays. Moreover, we get snippets from Porter’s diary and other inserts that gave the book a personal touch. Some moments also made me laugh, like how the incidents take a toll between Bronwyn and Porter.

Perhaps the only criticism of the story is how it took time to set off. Nothing much happens in the first act except the introduction of the characters, and the story only got exciting when Jude came into the picture in the second half. Nevertheless, some moments shocked me, like when Antonia comes back to school or Cass films at the party. There were even moments that made me laugh, like Bronwyn’s representation of Little House on the Prairie.

Overall, “Take Her Down” is a unique and entertaining Young Adult book that is worth checking out, especially if you love Shakespeare’s works.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on theTake Her Down by Lauren Emily Whalen Blog Tour hosted by Suzy approved Book Tours. Check out my post!

Rajivs Reviews-Post-3-6-2022
Bookish Heidi-Post-3-7-2022
CMT Loves Wine and Books-Post-3-9-2022
Read A Lot Write A Lot-Post-3-9-2022
Bookoholic Cafe-Post-3-10-2022

March 6, 2022
Crossroads by Mary Ting
Crossroads (Crossroads Saga #1) by Mary Ting

Release: March 2nd 2014
Format: Ebook
Publisher: World Castle
Source: Xpresso Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible

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Can two worlds collide in dreams?
Protecting her from the fallen was his duty.
Falling in love was never part of his plan.
Loving her was forbidden.
Being with her was all that mattered, even if it meant he would be exiled for all eternity.

Claudia Emerson’s life is about to change when her good friend, who coincidentally shares the same first and last name, dies in a tragic accident. Distraught at the loss of her friend, Claudia’s dreams become tumultuous, and through them she mysteriously travels to another world called Crossroads. There, she unexpectedly meets Michael, a nephilim–half angel, half human. Now that she’s been there, fallen and demons are after her, suspecting she must be special, and it is up to Michael and the other nephilim to protect her. Her dream becomes a nightmare as more secrets are revealed about who she really is, and the true identities of the people she loves most.

About the Author:

International Bestselling, Award-Winning Author Mary Ting writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers all over the world. Her books run a wide range of genres: science fiction, fantasy, and swoon worthy stories. Her storytelling talents have won her a devoted legion of fans and garnered critical praise.

Mary was born in Seoul Korea and resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two dogs—Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Becoming an author was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, she retired from teaching. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Bookbub

Crossroads Review:

“Crossroads” is the first book in the “Crossroads Saga,” and I loved the chemistry between the two characters.

Firstly, let me begin by saying that I loved how the story started off. The author drew me in from the first page as Claudia levitated and was in a dream-like world. There was something mysterious and intriguing about the world, and I wanted to know more about the winged woman and the handsome man and the castle she saw.

Secondly, I loved Claudia in the lead and how the author wrote her reaction to the events she witnessed. I particularly liked how she wrote her scenes with Gamma and Patty and crossroads with Michael. Claudia and Michael share great chemistry, and I liked how the author wrote their relationship, even if they were worlds apart. Some of my favorite moments are when they go hiking, their first kiss, and how protective Michael gets with Claudia about Ryan. The author also adds exciting moments like when Claudia hears her name at the camp or struggles in the water, which had me turning the pages to find out what happened. I loved Patty as the side character and even enjoyed Davin, Vivian, and Caleb.

Perhaps the only downside to the tale is that the story paces down midway, and nothing much happens after the camping incident with Patty until we hit the climax. While I still enjoyed reading the chemistry between the characters, I wish the author had inserted more exciting elements.

Overall, I enjoyed reading “Crossroads” and would check out the next book to revisit Claudia, Michael, and the Alkins.

GIVEAWAY
Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)
Crossroads Hardback and Swags
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Blitz Tour

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Crossroads (Crossroads Saga #1) by Mary Ting Blog Tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!
February 19, 2022
Bluebird At My Window by H. Noah

Bluebird At My Window by H. Noah

Release: February 15th 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: H. Noah
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, TBD, Bookshop.org

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When faced with trauma, how would you react?

Would you survive, succumb, or lose yourself to your own meaning of justice?

Ann was only seventeen when she died. She tried to be a dutiful daughter, to pray, to repent. But it wasn’t enough. Her mother, Diane, didn’t mean to kill her but when she found Ann consorting with devils, she had no choice. She believed the angels-that in the end, the water would save them both.

But every choice holds weight.

One death, and Arthur is thrown back into the work he wanted to leave. Again, One death, and Richard must face the reality of his choices. One death, and Maddie and Marie are confronted with the hardest parts of love.

If only good intentions were enough to keep them from the carnage of their own decisions . . .

A dark contemporary fiction drenched in blood, this debut novel from H. Noah has an intricate true crime feeling with psychological depth.

Content Warning

The following book centers around processing trauma. Please be aware that it will touch upon such topics as violence, sexual assault (not overly descriptive), racism, microaggressions, misogyny, incest, and homophobia. This book also focuses on mental health and will cover depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal ideation, hearing voices, religious fixations, delusions, self-harm, and drug abuse.

And this book is dark due to the topics covered.

This is not a horror or thriller meant to scare you. Please be kind to yourself and put the book back if you are not in a good place to read any of the things mentioned above.

Author Bio:

H. Noah,Queer Writer (They/Them)

I’ve been a massage therapist, social worker, poet, teacher, and more. I’ve lived in Alaska, Maine and many places in-between. Still trying to find a forever place but currently traveling the US.
Degrees
B.A. – Criminology
M.S. – I-O Psychology
Extra
Book, Video Game, Horror Movie, and Board Game Fanatic. Who enjoys long walks, my two pets, and an air of mystery.

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

Bluebird At My Window Review:

“Bluebird At My Window” surprised me because of its subject matter and how the author tackled the forms of trauma.

The story immediately captured my attention when we learned of Ann’s death right from the beginning. What intrigued me about the story is how the author wrote the characters. You form a connection to each of the characters and feel for them because, in their opinion, they firmly believe that what they are doing is right. I was surprised that even Diane was mesmerizing, as, in any other story, I would have disliked the character. Similarly, Arthur, Marie, Richard, and Maddie also drive the story well. I enjoyed Arthur’s role as he became obsessed over Ann’s case and wondered how he would reflect on the events. Moreover, I loved the bond between Marie and Maddie. Initially, I thought how Maddie’s character would have relevance to the tale, but the author makes her prominent.

Moreover, there are many triggers like assault, trauma, misogyny, and violence, so this book is not for everyone. Yet, I thought the author handled the subject matter well in line with the plot. There are also shocking, suspenseful moments, like the courtroom scenes and Arthur and Marie’s events post that. It was fascinating to see how Ann’s murder caused a ripple effect on all these characters, and some moments will give you goosebumps and chills.

Perhaps the only criticism I have of the tale is that it was bumpy initially—the author shifts between the characters of so many people that I took time to adapt. However, after the first few chapters, I was glued to the tale.

Overall, “Bluebird At My Window” is a raw, gripping, and engaging read that deals with the

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card, International.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on thBluebird At My Window by H. Noah 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-2-7/-2022
@jaimerockstarbooktours-IG Post-2-7-2022
Mythical Books-Excerpt or Guest Post/IG Post-2-8-2022
Writer of Wrongs-Excerpt or Guest Post-2-8-2022
The Momma Spot-Excerpt or Guest Post-2-9-2022
BookHounds YA-Excerpt or Guest Post-2-9-2022
Daily Waffle-Excerpt or Guest Post/IG Post-2-10-2022
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-2-10-2022
The Girl Who Reads-Review-2-11-2022
Jazzy Book Reviews-Review-2-11-2022

Week Two:
Take A Look At My Bookshelf-Review-2-14-2022
#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-2-14-2022
Adrienne Woods-Excerpt or Guest Post/IG Post-2-15-2022
Karen Dee’s Book Reviews-IG Spotlight-2-15-2022
Sadie’s Spotlight-Excerpt or Guest Post/IG Post-2-16-2022
@coffeesipsandreads-Review-2-16-2022
Two Points of Interest-Review-2-17-2022
Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt or Guest Post-2-17-2022
Momfluenster-Review-2-18-2022
Dr Roha Tahir-Review-2-18-2022

February 19, 2022