My Book Reviews

Category: Young Adult

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

  • The Bear House (#1) by Meaghan McIsaac

    The Bear House (#1) by Meaghan McIsaac

    The Bear House

    The Bear House (#1) by Meaghan McIsaac

    Release: October 5, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Holiday House
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org 

    __

    __

    In a gritty medieval world where the ruling houses are based on the constellations, betrayal, intrigue, and a king’s murder force the royal sisters of the Bear House on the run!

    Moody Aster and her spoiled sister Ursula are the daughters of Jasper Lourdes, Major of Bears and lord of all the realm. Rivals, both girls dream of becoming the Bear queen someday, although neither really deserve to, having no particular talent in… well, anything.

    But when their Uncle Bram murders their father in a bid for the crown, the girls are forced onto the run, along with lowly Dev the Bearkeeper and the Lourdes’s half-grown grizzly Alcor, symbol of their house. As a bitter struggle for the throne consumes the kingdom in civil war, the sisters must rely on Dev, the bear cub, and each other to survive–and find wells of courage, cunning, and skill they never knew they had.

    About the Author:

    Meaghan McIsaac is the author of several books for young readers, including The Boys of Fire and Ash, which was shortlisted for the Manitoba Young Readers’ Choice Award; and Movers, which was a Shining Willow Finalist for the Saskatchewan Young Readers’ Choice Awards.

    Meaghan lives in Toronto, Ontario with her two dogs.

    .

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

    The Bear House (#1) Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Do you pick up and start reading books and immediately know that it will be an epic and grand story? When I started reading “The Bear House,” I knew it was going to be unique. As soon as I read words like stars and Oracles, I knew it would be magical. The first chapter was a bit bumpy for me as it took time to understand the world. However, once I fell into the groove, I was immersed in Aster’s world as she realized that her world had come crashing down. The story was hard to put down since they found out that the Manor was under attack. The author filled the story with memorable moments, like when they search for a bell for sanctuary, when Quentin sees the Umbra, or when Uncle Bram comes to take Ursula away.

    The author wrote the characters so amazingly! Aster, Ursula, and Dev shine in the story as they go on their journey. I was also intrigued by Bernadine and wanted to see if she would fall into her calculating father’s charms. Would she give in to his power and promises? Speaking of who, Uncle Bram is one of those people that you wish to see fall from his high horse. Even Alcor is adorable and protects the group as they run for survival.

    On a side note, I also loved how the author inserted passages from the fictional “Star Writ” in between each chapter. Some quotations were profound, like when Aster thinks they can also lie if the stars can speak. The author paces the story flawlessly, and I wondered how Quintin, Lorc, and Aster’s storylines would merge.

    The author paces the story to a thrilling, unforgettable climax which left me speechless. Overall, I loved reading “The Bear House.”

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will win an eBook of THE BEAR HOUSE, US Only.

    Giveaway Details:
    3 winners will win an eBook of THE BEAR HOUSE, US Only.

    Rafflecopter Embed Code:
    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Bear House

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Bear House (#1) by Meaghan McIsaac 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-10-18-2021
    Log Cabin Library-Excerpt-10-18-2021
    BookHounds Ya -Excerpt-10-19-2021
    Kait Plus Books-Excerpt-10-19-2021
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-10-20-2021
    The Bookwyrm’s Den-Excerpt-10-20-2021
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt-10-21-2021
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-10-21-2021
    Jaime’s World-Review-10-22-2021

    Week Two:
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-10-22-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-10-25-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-25-2021
    The Momma Spot-Review-10-26-2021
    Little Red Reads-Review-10-26-2021
    Two Points of Interest-Review-10-27-2021
    Books and Zebras -Review-10-27-2021
    Eli to the nth-Review-10-28-2021
    The Reading Wordsmith-Review-10-28-2021
    History from a Woman’s Perspective -Review-10-29-2021
    Nonbinary Knight Reads and Reviews-Review-10-29-2021

  • Sidelined by Kara Bietz

    Sidelined by Kara Bietz

    Sidelined

    Sidelined by Kara Bietz

    Release: September 21st 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads ,Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

    __

    __

    An emotional YA romance about small town secrets, high school football, and broken hearts.

    Julian Jackson has a short to-do list for his senior year at Crenshaw County High School in Meridian, Texas: football, football, and more football. He knows he’s only got one chance to earn a college scholarship and make it out of his small town, and keeping his head down, his grades up, and his cleats on the field is that one chance. And then Elijah Vance walks back into his life, throwing all of his carefully-laid plans into a tailspin.

    Elijah and Julian used to be best friends, maybe even on their way to something more than just friends. But three years ago, Elijah broke into the school to steal money from the coach’s office, and Julian was the one who turned him in. After that, Elijah and his family disappeared without a trace. And now he’s back, sitting at Julian’s grandmother’s kitchen table.

    But time and distance haven’t erased all of their feelings, and Elijah knows that he finally has a chance to prove to Julian that he’s not the same person he was three years ago. But with secrets still growing between them and an uncertain future barreling towards them, it may be harder to lean on each other than they thought.

    About the Author:

    Kara Bietz was born in New England but currently resides just outside of Atlanta, Georgia with her family. Her first novel, Until I Break, was a Texas Library Association Spirit of Texas Reading Program selection. Her newest release, Sidelined, is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.

    When she’s not writing, you can find Kara hanging out with her family, singing show tunes to her dogs, and adding to her impressive pen collection. 

     

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

    Sidelined Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    What happens when your best friend from long back comes back to your life and shakes it up? The author wrote a beautiful YA contemporary romance in Sidelined.

    What I loved about the story were the two main characters. The author depicted Elijah and Julian perfectly as they reunited with each other. Many moments just warmed my heart, like how they reminisce over the good times of the past and how they talk about the people they miss. The author also portrays their feeling and relationship nicely. Julian is the star everyone loves, while Elijah is the troubled boy with the colored past who comes back to town. Elijah tries to ignore what people tell about his father and how his friendship with Julian strengthens him.

    Moreover, the author portrayed their emotions realistically. Both Julian and Elijah carry their baggage of how people perceive them and how they need to behave differently. Elijah was my favorite more than Julian, as I thought he was more emotionally inclined than Julian, considering his backstory. The two of them share their ups and downs and try to work towards meeting each other midway. Moreover, even the side characters like Camille, Nate, and Birdie add nicely to the plot. I loved Julian’s relationship with Birdie and thought they were adorable.

    The author also spices up the story with specific events, like the Taylor flag/prank incident and the event from twenty years ago. Moreover, the author brings the football field to life, as she describes the games and the backstage drama in an exciting manner.

    Overall, I thought “Sidelined” was a beautiful young adult, contemporary romance with likable characters, and I enjoyed reading it a lot.

     

    Book Tour Schedule:

    Sidelined

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Sidelined by Kara Bietz Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.  Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

  • The Horror Film Killer by Michael J. Bowler

    The Horror Film Killer by Michael J. Bowler

    The Horror Film Killer

    The Horror Film Killer by Michael J. Bowler

    Release:October 26, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Michael J. Bowler Publishing
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD

    __

    __

    What would you do if someone acted out—for real— the kill scenes from your student-made horror film?

    That’s the dilemma facing high school seniors Cassie and Donovan. Best friends, aspiring filmmakers, and hopeful romantic partners, they set out to complete a feature-length horror film as a graduation project for their performing arts high school. Using actors and crew from among their classmates, they aim to finish the bulk of shooting over Spring Break. When several murders occur not far from their locations—each one recreating a specific “kill” scene from their script—they suddenly find themselves embroiled in a real-life horror movie neither of them bargained for.

    Cassie’s police officer dad and his ex-girlfriend—a homicide detective Cassie once hoped would be her stepmom—allow the film shoot to continue because the killer has threatened to murder Donovan’s mother if they stop. Traps are set and arrests are made, but the killer—who might be a member of the cast or crew—is one step ahead of their every move.

    Can Cassie and Donovan help the police unmask the psychopath before more people die? 

    About the Author:

    Michael J. Bowler is an award-winning author who grew up in Northern California. He majored in English/Theatre at Santa Clara University, earned a master’s in film production from Loyola Marymount University, a teaching credential in English from LMU, and a master’s in Special Education from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. Michael taught high school in Hawthorne, California for many years, both in general education and students with disabilities. When Michael is not writing you can find him volunteering as a youth mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, volunteering within the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles, or caring for his newly adopted son. He is a passionate advocate for the fair treatment of children and teens in California, and hopes his books can show young people they are not alone in their struggles.

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

    The Horror Film Killer Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Let me preface by saying that I grew up in the 90s and loved watching slasher films like “Scream” and “I know what you did Last Summer.” When I started reading the book, I immediately knew that I would enjoy it. The author takes moments from such movies and spins them into this very entertaining ‘whodunit’ read. Moreover, I adored how the author references the classics like “The Exorcist” and “Friday the 13th”.

    Secondly, Cassie and Donovan stand out in the story, and I liked how the author portrayed their friendship (and potential romance). Cassie is a strong character and is not scared to get to the bottom of what is happening. Also, I liked the last cast of characters and felt each of them brought something new to the story. For instance, I enjoyed how techy savvy Baxter is using the drone footage. Similarly, you already suspect a few people like Robert and Mr. Warner, who are so creepy.

    Thirdly, the author adds quite a lot of twists and turns and maintains the suspense. You see inserts of who someone is spying on the team and planning the murders, and these moments gave me goosebumps. One of the story’s highlights is when the mother gets involved and finds out that her life could also be in danger. On a side note, I also enjoyed how the author details film shootings and all the hard work behind the scenes. Also, in such a story, you need a shocking reveal, and the ending was one that I did not suspect at all.

    Overall, “The Horror Film Killer ” is an entertaining book to pick up if you are a fan of teen horror or slasher movies.

    Giveaway Details:

    1 winner will win a signed finished copy of THE HORROR FILM KILLER, US Only.

    3 winners will win an eBook of THE HORROR FILM KILLER, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Horror Film Killer

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Horror Film Killer by Michael J. Bowler 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-Excerpt-10-18-2021
    The Momma Spot-Excerpt-10-18-2021
    Living in a Bookworld-Guest Post-10-19-2021
    BookHounds YA-Guest Post-10-19-2021
    @bookstagramofmine -Review-10-19-2021
    Lily Luchesi’s Blog-Review-10-20-2021
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Review-10-21-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-21-2021
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-10-22-2021
    Wonder Struck -Review-10-22-2021

    Week Two:
    @moonlight_rendezvous -Review-10-25-2021
    @more.books.yes.please-Review-10-25-2021
    The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-10-26-2021
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-10-26-2021
    popthebutterfly reads-Review-10-27-2021
    Simply Daniel Radcliffe-Review-10-27-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-10-28-2021
    @coffeebooksandmascara -Review-10-28-2021
    Midnightbooklover-Review-10-29-2021
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-10-29-2021

  • The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII by M.J. Evans

    The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII by M.J. Evans

    The Sand Pounder

    The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII by M.J. Evans

    Release: September 28th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Dancing Horse Press
    Source: iRead Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo, TBD, 

    __

    __

    The world is at war. A teenage equestrian takes on a man’s world to make a difference…and finds love along the way.

    Fearing an invasion by German and Japanese forces during World War II, the U.S. Coast Guard enlisted horsemen to patrol the beaches along the east and west coasts. The unit was called “The Sand Pounders” and they rode their horses up and down the beaches from 1942 to 1944.

    In Tillamook, Oregon, a young equestrian decided to join them. There was only one problem…they were only accepting men. That didn’t slow her down.

    The Sand Pounder is a Young Adult historical fiction set during World War II

    About the Author:

    Award-Winning, Best-Selling author, M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and graduated from Oregon State University. She spent five years teaching junior high and high school students before retiring to raise her five children.

    She is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado Mountains.

    Website | instagram | facebook   | Goodreads | pinterest

    The Sand Pounder Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The Sand Pounder is a heartwarming historical fiction on the bravery of a young girl, and I enjoyed it.

    This book gave me Mulan vibes, and I liked it! Right from the first page, I connected with Jane as she heard the news of the events of World War II. The author wrote Jane’s emotions wonderfully, from what she sees with the Katos to Jane’s experiences in the Sand Pounders.

    I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. The story is a beautiful blend of action, drama, and historical references. It is also evident that the author thoroughly researched World War II, and I enjoyed all the details she included in the story. Some of my favorite moments were when Jane supports Stephan or how emotional she gets over the Katos. I also enjoyed her scenes with Stephan, as the author adds a spark between the two even when Jane is in disguise. The two of them share a beautiful bond when they partner, and I enjoyed how their storyline progressed. At the same time, I adored the letters that Jane wrote to Thomas.

    Another big highlight of the story was Jane’s love for horses. It is clear that the author is passionate about horses, and I love Jane’s connection with Star. The author also adds thrilling moments to the tale, like when Jane sees a woman’s body or when they hear explosions that spook the horses. Moreover, I liked the storyline involving Brian and how Stephan and Jane helped him.

    Overall, “The Sand Pounder” is a beautiful young adult historical novel that had a touch of everything for a reader of any age to enjoy.

    Giveaway:

    The Sand Pounder – Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII by M. J. Evans, signed by the author (one winner/USA only)

    THE SAND POUNDER Book Tour Giveaway

    The Sand Pounder

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on tThe Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII by M.J. Evans Blog Tour hosted by iRead Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Splashes of Joy – Oct 12 –book review / guest post / giveaway
    FUONLYKNEW – Oct 12 – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
    The Lost Review Of Odd Books – Oct 12 – book review
    Rockin’ Book Reviews – Oct 13 – book review / giveaway
    Kam’s Place – Oct 13 –book spotlight / guest post
    Book Corner News and Reviews – Oct 14 –book review / giveaway
    wottaread – Oct 15 – book spotlight
    Books for Books – Oct 15 –  book review
    Connie’s History Classroom – Oct 18 –  book review / guest post / giveaway
    Literary Flits – Oct 19 – book review / giveaway
    Jazzy Book Reviews – Oct 20 –  book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Oct 20 – book review / giveaway
    Locks, Hooks and Books – Oct 21 –  book review / giveaway
    Writer with Wanderlust – Oct 22 – book review / guest post / giveaway

  • City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn

    City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn

    City of Shattered Light

    City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn

    Release: October 19th, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: North Star Editions
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound

    __

    __

    As darkness closes in on the city, an heiress and an outlaw must decide whether to fend for themselves or fight for each other.

    As heiress to a powerful tech empire, seventeen-year-old Asa Almeida strives to prove she’s more than her manipulative father’s shadow. But when he uploads her rebellious sister’s mind to an experimental brain, Asa will do anything to save her sister from reprogramming—including fleeing her predetermined future with her sister’s digitized mind in tow. With a bounty on her head and a rogue A.I. hunting her, Asa’s getaway ship crash-lands in the worst possible place: the neon-drenched outlaw paradise, Requiem.

    Gun-slinging smuggler Riven Hawthorne is determined to claw her way up Requiem’s underworld hierarchy. A runaway rich girl is exactly the bounty Riven needs—until a nasty computer virus spreads in Asa’s wake, causing a citywide blackout and tech quarantine. To get the payout for Asa and save Requiem from the monster in its circuits, Riven must team up with her captive.

    Riven breaks skulls the way Asa breaks circuits, but their opponent is unlike anything they’ve ever seen. The A.I. exploits the girls’ darkest memories and deepest secrets, threatening to shatter the fragile alliance they’re both depending on. As one of Requiem’s 154-hour nights grows darker, the girls must decide whether to fend for themselves or fight for each other before Riven’s city and Asa’s sister are snuffed out forever. 

    About the Author:

    Claire Winn spends her time immersed in other worlds—through LARP, video games, books, nerd conventions, and her own stories. Since graduating from Northwestern University, she’s worked as a legal writer and freelance editor. Aside from writing, she builds cosplay props and armor, tears up dance floors, and battles with boffer swords. 

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook | Tik Tok

    City of Shattered Light Review:

    “City of Shattered Light” is a gripping young adult, science fiction fantasy novel that was simply out of this world!

    Firstly, kudos to the author for such a remarkable debut! Usually, when I read science fiction books, it takes a while to understand world-building. The first thing that struck me was how smoothly the author described world-building. I had no trouble following the story where we encountered “scavs,” bruisers, matriarchs, and organ pirates. The author fills the story with surprising twists and turns, with science fiction action and adventure, that made the book hard to put down. Some of the moments that stood out for me was when Asa realizes there is no turning back, or when she witnesses what happens to Kaya.

    Moreover, I enjoyed Asa and Riven as the two leads. They are striking characters with contrasting personalities, and I liked how the author toggled the chapters between their perspectives. Asa was my favorite, and I was intrigued by how her world changed because of what happened to Kaya. The author also introduces us to other memorable characters like Diego, Banshee, and Morphett as the story progresses. I also enjoyed the scenes between Ty and Asa. It was also interesting to see how Riven would plan her next move knowing she was running out of time. Both Riven and Asa have reasons to go ahead with their mission, but it was nice to see how they got together. The author paces the story wonderfully, which leads to a thrilling climax.

    The story also ends in a cliffhanger, where you want to pick up the next book and immediately start reading. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed “City of Shattered Light” and can’t wait to read the continuation.

    Book Tour Schedule

    City of Shattered Light

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the City of Shattered Light by Claire Winn Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.

     

    October 4th
    Melancholic Blithe-Interview
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads-Review & 15 Reactions While Reading City of Shattered Light
    Stuck in Fiction-Promo Post
    The Broke Book Blog – Top 5 Reasons to Read City of Shattered Light & 15 Reactions While Reading City of Shattered Light & Tik Tok

    October 5th
    Bibliosini-Review
    Bookz Forever-Review

    October 6th
    We Write at Dawn-Review
    Beneath A Thousand Skies-Review

    October 7th
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read City of Shattered Light
    Djreadsbooks-Playlist & Favorite Quotes
    astralbooks-Review & Playlist
    Read With Serena-Review

    October 8th
    Book Lover’s Book Reviews-Review
    Dipped in Ink-Top 5 Reasons to Read City of Shattered Light & 15 Reactions While Reading City of Shattered Light
    Nine Bookish Lives-Promo Post

    October 9th
    Pei Reads-Review
    Justice For Readers-Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read City of Shattered Light
    popthebutterfly reads-Review

    October 10th
    Kait Plus Books-Interview
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review
    Rampant Reading Reviews-Promo Post
    heylittlesiren-Review

  • A Beast So Beautiful by Carlyle Labuschagne

    A Beast So Beautiful by Carlyle Labuschagne

    A Beast So Beautiful by Carlyle Labuschagne

    Release: April 4, 2021
    Format: Paperback, eBook
    Publisher: CHBB Publishing
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, TBD, Bookshop.org

    __

    __

    A darkness falls over the land when the Queen of Rurith dies.

    Consumed with grief, King Ivar blames their son, Prince Leif, for her demise, and locks him away in the castle.
    The Prince is left in total despair, until a girl, with hair the colour of a red sunset and green eyes shows him mercy.
    For six years she visits him in secret, giving him hope where none existed before.
    But Ruith hides many treacherous things that threaten to bring the Kingdom to its knees.
    Until the Prince and his beastly curse are released. 

    About the Author:

    Carlyle is a South African USA Today Bestselling,  award-winning, and international bestselling author with a flair for mixing genres and adding loads of drama to every story she creates. she has traveled the world with her books in hopes of connecting with all kinds of book-loving people, to learn as much as she can from other book cultures with the hopes of bringing the knowledge back to her home country.
    For now, she is happy to take over the world and convert non-Sci-fi believers.

    Her goal as an author is to touch people’s lives and help others love their differences and one another by delivering strong messages of faith, love, and hope within every outrageous world she writes about.

    “I love to swim, fight for the trees, and am a food lover who is driven by my passion for life. I dream that one day my stories will change the lives of countless teenagers and have them obsess over the world literacy can offer them instead of worrying about fitting in. Never sacrifice who you are, its in the dark times that the light comes to life.”

    Carlyle uses writing as a healing tool and that is why she has started her very own writers to support the event – SAIR book festival.
    To be a helping hand for those who strive to become full times writers, editors, bloggers, readers, and cover artists – it’s a crazy world out there you don’t have to go it alone!
    follow @CarlyleL for all the crazy updates on all things me.

    Founder of SAIR Book Festival
    Co-Founder of Fire Quill Publishing.
    Founder of Help build a library in South Africa. 

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

    A Beast So Beautiful Review:

    “A Beast So Beautiful” is a gothic, grim representation of Beauty and the Beast, and I loved reading it!

    What stood out for me in the story was the dynamic way in which the author wrote it. Whether it be the characters, pacing, or world-building, it is no surprise that the author wrote an intricate story. You feel so strongly towards the characters because of the details the author puts in their emotions. Leif is a fantastic protagonist and immediately captured my heart. My heart went out to Leif for the guilt he had to endure for his mother’s death. At the same time, he is keen to set things right, and I loved his determination. Similarly, I wanted to shake King Ivar for treating Leif so terribly. Even Avelyn and Astrid were memorable.

    The author sets the suspense beautifully right from the beginning. From the scenes where they go to the woods to kill a bear to when he comes across the sorcerer guards, there is never a dull moment. There are also some creepy moments like when Leif goes to the dungeons, sees figures in the passageway, or saves the watchman. I also have to give credit to the author for the twists and turns. There is a twist in the end, which I did not expect, making the story memorable. The author also wrote the world grandeur, from the Frossen forest to the Weoh Mountains to the Tafel landscape.

    Finally, the author also sets precedence for what we can expect in the next book of this duology, and I am excited about its release. Overall, “A Beast So Beautiful” is a stunning young adult fantasy retelling of one of my favorite stories, and I enjoyed it.

    Giveaway:

    1 winner will receive a paperback copy of A BEAST SO BEAUTIFUL, with a digitally signed bookmark and a custom digital mobile screensaver – A Beast so Beautiful themed mobile screen saver with the winner’s name on it, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on  A Beast So Beautiful by Carlyle Labuschagne Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    GivernyReads-Review-10-4-2021
    YA Books Central-Guest Post-10-4-2021
    Book for Thought-Review-10-5-2021
    @more.books.yes.please-Review/IG Post-10-5-2021
    @bookstagramofmine-Review/IG Post-10-6-2021
    More Books Please blog-Review-10-6-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish/Lexijava -Review/IG Post-10-7-2021
    Nat Reads-Review-10-7-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-10-8-2021
    BookHounds YA-Guest Post-10-8-2021

    Week Two:
    The Momma Spot-Excerpt-10-11-2021
    What A Nerd Girl Says-Guest Post-10-11-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-10-12-2021
    Wonder Struck-Review/IG Post-10-12-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread -Review/IG Post-10-13-2021
    BookBriefs-Review-10-13-2021
    The Pages In-Between -Review-10-14-2021
    popthebutterfly reads-Review-10-14-2021
    @enjoyingbooksagain-Review/IG Post-10-15-2021
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-10-15-2021

  • Frankie & Bug by Gayle Forman

    Frankie & Bug by Gayle Forman

    Frankie & Bug

    Frankie & Bug by Gayle Forman

    Release: October 12, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Aladdin
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

    __

    __

    In the debut middle grade novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Gayle Forman comes a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story that follows a young girl and her new friend as they learn about family, friendship, allyship, and finding your way in a complicated world.

    It’s the summer of 1987, and all ten-year-old Bug wants to do is go to the beach with her older brother and hang out with the locals on the boardwalk. But Danny wants to be with his own friends, and Bug’s mom is too busy, so Bug is stuck with their neighbor Philip’s nephew, Frankie.

    Bug’s not too excited about hanging out with a kid she’s never met, but they soon find some common ground. And as the summer unfolds, they find themselves learning some important lessons about each other, and the world.

    Like what it means to be your true self and how to be a good ally for others. That family can be the people you’re related to, but also the people you choose to have around you. And that even though life isn’t always fair, we can all do our part to make it more just.

    About the Author:

    Gayle Forman is an award-winning author and journalist whose articles have appeared in numerous publications, including Seventeen, Cosmopolitan, and Elle in the US. Gayle Forman’s novel, If I Stay, was released as a blockbuster movie starring Chloë Grace Moretz in 2014.

    Her most recent YA novel is We Are Inevitable. Gayle lives in Brooklyn, New York with her family.

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

    Frankie & Bug Review:

    “Frankie & Bug” was super cute! It’s the perfect blend of middle-grade elements, mystery, and family dynamics.

    The highlight of the story is in the main characters, Bug, Frankie, and even Danny. Our main character, Bug, is adorable in the lead. The author wrote Bug wonderfully and realistically, and you immediately feel like you understand her feelings. Similarly, the author portrayed the sibling relationship between Bug and Danny so well. As Danny grows up, he spends time away from Bug, and Bug hates him for distancing himself from her. It was interesting to see if and how they would patch up.

    At the same time, I liked how Bug got paired with Frankie and thought they made a perfect team. Similarly, I adored Frankie and his determination to find who the Midnight Marauder is. Frankie also has flaws, but as the story progresses, you see how Bug also helps him in ways. Speaking of which, the author also wrote the mystery of the Midnight Marauder creatively. Even I wondered who it could be as I continued to read the story when Frankie and Bug target the Hermit.

    What’s charming about the story is also the small stories that we get on the side. For instance, the author glued me to the pages during Phillip’s incident and how Bug finds out more about her family. There are also moments where the author makes the side characters like Hedvig’s story of Disneyland stand out. The author paces the story lovely and adds a touch of humor in Bug’s dialogues, like how her output of the lemonade stand was busy. In general, there are many reasons to appreciate this book.

    Overall, I enjoyed reading “Frankie & Bug” and found it a charming middle-grade novel.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will receive a finished copy of FRANKIE & BUG, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Frankie & Bug

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Frankie & Bug by Gayle Forman Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers -Review-10-1/-2021
    Feed Your Fiction Addiction-Review-10-2-2021

    Week Two:
    Nonbinary Knight Reads-Review-10-3-2021
    YA Books Central-Excerpt-10-4-2021
    notinjersey-Review-10-5-2021
    Nerdophiles -Review-10-6-2021
    Emelie’s Books-Review-10-7-2021
    Simply Daniel Radcliffe-Review-10-8-2021
    Phannie the Ginger Bookworm-Review-10-9-2021

    Week Three:
    BookHounds YA-Review-10-10-2021
    Kait Plus Books-Review-10-11-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-12-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-10-13-2021
    coffeebooksandmascara-Review-10-14-2021
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-10-15-2021
    Perusewithcoffee-Review-10-16-2021

    Week Four:
    GivernyReads-Review-10-17-2021
    Pagesofyellow -Review-10-18-2021
    Locks, Hooks and Books-Review-10-19-2021
    Little Red Reads-Review-10-20-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread -Review-10-21-2021
    FyreKatz Blog-Review-10-22-2021
    two points of interest-Review-10-23-2021

    Week Five:
    cindysloveofbooks-Review-10-24-2021
    amandainpa -Review-10-25-2021
    Books Are Magic Too-Review-10-26-2021
    Lily Luchesi’s Blog-Excerpt-10-27-2021
    @drewsim12-Review-10-28-2021
    What A Nerd Girl Says-Excerpt-10-29-2021
    onemused-IG Post-10-30-2021

    Week Six:
    @pickagoodbook-Excerpt-10-31-2021

  • The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud

    The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud

    The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne

    The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud

    Release: October 5, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

    __

    __

    Action! Humor! Fantasy! This new series opener is a tour de force from international bestseller Jonathan Stroud.

    Scarlett McCain is an outlaw, a bank robber and a sharp shooter–a girl of formidable skills. Fueled by a tragic injustice in her past, she travels the broken kingdoms of England alone, carrying out daring heists in the surviving towns and fending off monstrous beasts in the wilds outside their fortified walls. Her life is dangerous, free, and simple–until she finds a wrecked bus on a lonely road. Albert Browne, the sole survivor of the accident, is a seemingly innocent and harmless youth. Against her better judgement, Scarlett agrees to escort him to safety.

    This is a mistake. They are soon pursued by men with dogs and guns and explosives. Scarlett is used to running from the law, but these trackers are the most skilled she’s ever encountered–and they don’t seem to be after her. Just who is this Albert Browne Scarlett must uncover his shocking secrets if either of them are going to survive.

    About the Author:

    Jonathan Stroud is the author of two internationally bestselling series: the award-winning Bartimaeus Sequence, which has been published in thirty-six languages worldwide, and the critically acclaimed Lockwood & Co., which is currently being adapted by Netflix. His stand-alone titles include Heroes of the Valley, The Last Siege, The Leap, and Buried Fire. Jonathan lives near London with his wife and three children. You can visit him at jonathanstroud.com and follow him on Instagram at @jonathan.stroud and on Twitter at @JonathanAStroud.

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

    The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne” is an incredible young adult fantasy adventure that I could not put down.

    Firstly, kudos to the author for setting up such a fantastic world. The environment is part dystopian, part Western, part futuristic, part science fiction, and just excellent altogether. I loved the Tainted concept and how the story gave me a “Stranger Things” vibe. Right from the first page, the author sets the pace of what to expect as Scarlett plots her next move for a robbery. The story goes full swing once Albert enters the picture.

    Secondly, the characters are the highlight of the tale. I loved Scarlett and Albert as individuals and how they interacted together. Scarlett is wise and goes to the point. At the same time, Albert is sensitive yet powerful and adds a touch of humor through his innocence. I loved the way the two bonded and how they got closer with each other throughout their journey. But, no story can shine without a conniving villain, and I was not too fond of Dr. Calloway at all.

    Thirdly, the author paces the story so well that you feel a different emotion at certain parts. I found myself laughing at some of Albert’s behavior and was scared to turn the page in other moments, like when Scarlett and Albert look for Ettie. There were also moments where I felt protective towards Albert when he encountered Carrie, or the team met the likes of Pope, Lee, and Shilling. Similarly, the author also ends the story on a high note, where you realize there is so much potential for the series and our two main leads.

    Overall, I loved everything about “The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne” and cannot wait to revisit these characters soon.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will receive a finished copy of THE OUTLAWS SCARLETT AND BROWNE, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan StroudBlog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    YA Books Central-Pre Made Post-10-1-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-2-2021

    Week Two:
    More Books Please blog-Review-10-3-2021
    Nerdophiles -Review-10-4-2021
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-10-5-2021
    A Bookish Dream-Review-10-6-2021
    Celiamcmahonreads-Review-10-7-2021
    @jypsylynn -Review-10-8-2021
    Phannie the Ginger Bookworm-Review-10-9-2021

    Week Three:
    Books Are Magic Too-Review-10-10-2021
    GivernyReads-Review-10-11-2021
    onemused-IG Post-10-12-2021
    Bibliosini-Review-10-13-2021
    Pagesofyellow -Review-10-14-2021
    FyreKatz Blog-Review-10-15-2021
    coffeebooksandmascara-Review-10-16-2021

    Week Four:
    The Momma Spot-Review-10-17-2021
    YA Book Nerd-Review-10-18-2021
    Zainey Laney-Review-10-19-2021
    Kait Plus Books-Review-10-20-2021
    Little Red Reads-Review-10-21-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-10-22-2021
    What A Nerd Girl Says-Pre Made Post-10-23-2021

    Week Five:
    Locks, Hooks and Books-Review-10-24-2021
    @fictitious.fox-Review-10-25-2021
    two points of interest-Review-10-26-2021
    BookHounds YA-Excerpt-10-27-2021
    Popthebutterfly Reads-Review-10-28-2021
    The Bookwyrm’s Den-Review-10-29-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-10-30-2021

    Week Six:
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-10-31-2021

  • The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    The Throwback List

    The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    Release: October 5, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Hyperion Avenue
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

      __

    __

    Welcome to Sandy Point, Oregon, a beach town . It is home to a giant anchor statue, and Frosty’s questionably legendary Sunday Sundae Surprise. A town Jo, Autumn, and Bianca thought they’d left far behind when they graduated high school. And  finally moving on to greener pastures than the midway point for tourists heading to the Goonies house. 

    Bianca Boria-Birdy has always been an overachiever. She juggles managing the family tattoo parlor, caring for her grandmother, and adjusting to a new marriage.  Bianca’s schedule becomes stricter than ever, with no room for disruption. What she really needs is a vacation, but not even Bianca Boria-Birdy can achieve the impossible.

    Autumn Kelly used to be an actress. Now she teaches drama at Sandy Point High. She may have had to kiss her movie-star dreams goodbye. But molding the next generation of performers has given her life meaning in a whole new way. Until the sudden reappearance of her ex-best friend throws everything off-balance.

    Jo Freeman has it all together. He has a cool job in Silicon Valley, with connections at the trendiest fitness studios, and a down payment on her dream condo. So, She’s well on her way to reaching every one of her goals before thirty. Or she was, before she got fired and landed right back home with her parents and teenage sister.

    Then Jo finds an old bucket list in her childhood bedroom. It sets the three women on a path that brings them closer to one another with each task. And it just might lead to a life none of them could have planned.

    About the Author:

    Lily Anderson is the author of The only thing worse than Me is You , Not now, Not ever, Undead Girl Gang

    A former school librarian, she is deeply devoted to Shakespeare, fairy tales, and podcasts.

    Somewhere in Northern California, she has strong opinions on musical theater. Find her online at www.mslilyanderson.com 

    Website | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads | Instagram

    The Throwback List Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Throwback List” is a sweet contemporary novel about three people discovering themselves and was a beautiful novel to read.

    There are moments where I wish I could reunite with friends with who I don’t have contact anymore. “The Throwback List” is a beautiful contemporary novel that highlights what happens to a group when an ex-friend comes back in the picture.

    What’s interesting about the tale is how my perspective of the three characters changed over the course. Initially, from the three, I loved Autumn. The author wrote her emotions beautifully as she conflicts allowing Jo back in her life, but still wants to give her a chance. Similarly, I liked how Jo is stubborn and determined to win her friends back as she starts to go through her list. It was also interesting to see how long Bianca would hold her grudge against Jo.

    The author also adds a touch of humor to the dialogues, which I enjoyed. I laughed at some moments like when Jo TP’s Bianca’s house and the roll whacked her face. Some of the memorable moments in the story were when the group had a sleepover, or the surrounding incident of Birdy, or Bee’s breakdown. I also found more minor connections and drama interesting, like Lita and Bianca, or Bianca and Cruz, which added nicely. The author also ends most of the chapters with chat conversations between the three, which was fun.

    Probably my only criticism of the story is how the plot staggered in a few places. While I loved how the leads bonded with each other, there wasn’t much in terms of the story. Apart from that, I found “The Throwback List” a beautiful read and recommend reading a breezy read.

    Giveaway Details:

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

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Throwback List

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

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    brittreadsalattebooks-Excerpt & IG Post-10-1-2021
    Amani’s Honest Reviews-Excerpt-10-2-2021

    Week Two:
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-3-2021
    The Pages In-Between-Review-10-4-2021
    BookHounds-Excerpt-10-5-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread-Review-10-6-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-10-7-2021
    The Book Review Crew-Review-10-8-2021
    Cocoa With Books-Review-10-9-2021

    Week Three:
    Kait Plus Books-Review-10-10-2021
    @bookisheclectic-Review-10-11-2021
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads-Review-10-12-2021
    More Books Please blog-Review-10-13-2021
    A Bookish Dream-Review-10-14-2021
    @enjoyingbooksagain-Review-10-15-2021
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-10-16-2021

    Week Four:
    Zainey Laney-Review-10-17-2021
    @moonlight_rendezvous-Review-10-18-2021
    @jypsylynn-Review-10-19-2021
    The Momma Spot-Review-10-20-2021
    The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-10-21-2021
    coffeebooksandmascara-Review-10-22-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-10-23-2021

    Week Five:
    Perusewithcoffee-Review-10-24-2021
    Pagesofyellow-Review-10-25-2021
    cindysloveofbooks-Review-10-26-2021
    Popthebutterfly Reads-Review-10-27-2021
    two points of interest-Review-10-28-2021
    Fire and Ice-Review-10-29-2021
    BookBriefs-Review-10-30-2021

    Week Six:
    Phannie the Ginger Bookworm-Review-10-31-2021

  • Vial of Tears by Cristin Bishara

    Vial of Tears by Cristin Bishara

    Vial of Tears

    Vial of Tears by Cristin Bishara

    Release: October 5, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Holiday House
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

    __

    __

    Two sisters become trapped in the underworld and in the scheme of deities, shapeshifters, and ghouls–in this lush and dangerous Phoenician mythology-inspired fantasy.

    Sixteen-year-old sisters Samira and Rima aren’t exactly living the dream. Instead, they live with their maddeningly unreliable mother in a rundown trailer in Michigan. Dad’s dead, money’s tight, and Mom disappears for days at a time. So when Sam’s grandfather wills her the family valuables–a cache of Lebanese antiquities–she’s desperate enough to try pawning them before Mom can.

    But she shouldn’t. Because one is cursed, forbidden, the burial coin of a forgotten god. Disturbing it condemns her and Rima to the Phoenician underworld, a place of wicked cities, burning cedar forests, poisoned feasts of milk and lemons, and an endless, windless ocean.

    Nothing is what it seems. No one is who they say. And down here, the night never ends.

    To get home–and keep her sister safe–Sam will have to outwit beautiful shapeshifters, pose as a royal bride, sail the darkest sea… and maybe kill the god of death himself.

    About the Author:

    Cristin grew up in a small Ohio town where she got her first library card at age three. She’s been reading and writing ever since. Before publishing Relativity, Cristin worked as a freelance business writer, authoring magazine articles, as well as copy for food catalogs, ads, websites, and tourist guides. She’s taught composition and creative writing, both at the college level and in community workshops. In her spare time, she loves to travel, attempt to learn Spanish and Arabic, and cook, especially her grandmother’s Lebanese recipes. Learn more about Cristin by following her on Instagram.

    Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon

    Vial of Tears Review:

    “Vial of Tears” is a fantastic middle-grade adventure mythological fantasy filled with Lebanese culture that also takes you to the Underworld, and I could not put it down.

    I loved everything about this story from the get-go. The author tells the story so grippingly that something thrilling happens in nearly every chapter. Some fantastic scenes just stood out and etched in my mind. For instance, I loved Sam’s part with the women in the tent, skeptical to know her future. My second favorite was when she gets a sense of Deja Vu when she sees the picture before the guards chase her. Another unforgettable moment was when Sam swims and sees a shadow circling beneath her.

    Similarly, world-building is also incredible. The Underworld is a place where nothing is what it seems, and it was fascinating to see what was real and what wasn’t. The story impressed me because the author has the underlying current of love and family throughout the book. For instance, my heart went out to Sam and Rima when they thought they saw their father. The author also adds unique fantasy elements like Shapeshifters and magical artifacts to the story, giving it a special touch.

    The characters are also lovely. I loved Sam in the lead as she coped with what happened to her father and her mother’s disappearance. Even the supporting characters like Eshmun, Teth, and Meem added nicely. I also adored the middle-eastern terms I got to know, like the “Baalbek” and “Ruha.” The author perfectly executed everything about the story, from the characters, plot, and mythology aspects.

    Overall, I loved “Vial of Tears” and found it one of the best middle-grade adventure mythology books I have read this year.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will win a finished copy of VIAL OF TEARS, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Vial of Tears

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Vial of Tears by Cristin Bishara Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    YA Books Central-Excerpt-9-27-2021
    A Bookish Dream-Review-9-27-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-28-2021
    BookHounds YA-Excerpt-9-28-2021
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads-Review-9-29-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-9-29-2021
    abackwardsstory-Review-9-30-2021
    Emelie’s Books-Review-9-30-2021
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-10-1-2021
    FyreKatz Blog-Review-10-1-2021

    Week Two:
    Amani’s Honest Reviews-Excerpt-10-4-2021
    Simplybeccamee -Review-10-4-2021
    The Momma Spot-Review-10-5-2021
    The Litt Librarian -Review-10-5-2021
    The Bookwyrm’s Den-Review-10-6-2021
    @coffeebooksandmascara -Review-10-6-2021
    Dana’s Book Garden-Review-10-7-2021
    two points of interedt-Review-10-7-2021
    @jypsylynn -Review-10-8-2021
    History from a Woman’s Perspective -Review-10-8-2021