My Book Reviews

Category: Young Adult

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

  • As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    Release: September 28th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Delacorte Press
    Source: TBR and BeyondTours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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    The highly anticipated, edge-of-your-seat conclusion to the addictive A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series that reads like your favorite true crime podcast or show. By the end, you’ll never think the same of good girls again.

    Pip’s good girl days are long behind her. After solving two murder cases and garnering internet fame from her crime podcast, she’s seen a lot.

    But she’s still blindsided when it starts to feel like someone is watching her. It’s small things at first. A USB stick with footage recording her and the same anonymous source always asking her: who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears? It could be a harmless fan, but her gut is telling her danger is lurking.

    When Pip starts to find connections between her possible stalker and a local serial killer, Pip knows that there is only one choice: find the person threatening her town including herself–or be as good as dead. Because maybe someone has been watching her all along…

    About the Author:

    Lorem IpsuHolly Jackson started writing stories at a young age, completing her first (poor) attempt at a novel when she was fifteen. She graduated from the University of Nottingham, where she studied literary linguistics and creative writing, with a master’s degree in English. Jackson enjoys playing video games and watching true-crime documentaries so she can pretend to be a detective. She lives in London. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is her debut novel.

    Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    As Good As Dead Review:

    I have not read the previous two books, but I want to see how it started after reading “As Good as Dead.”

    This book was so atmospheric and creepy. Right from the getgo, you get a feeling of foreboding as Pip starts to get the messages about disappearing. The author paces the story wonderfully as it progresses, especially when you cannot put it down in the second half. I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what Pip would do. Considering that she is fascinated with true crime, it was a delight to see how intricate she sets her plans. The story becomes a cat and mouse game where you wonder if Pip has committed the perfect crime or not and will get away with it. Some scenes are intense, like the scenes between Pip and Jason and when she sees Max coming to the door. Even small moments like when Pip sees the pigeon with no head disturbed me.

    Moreover, I loved the main leads. Pip is dynamic as she tries to cover up for what she did. The author describes her feelings wonderfully as she wonders how her actions will impact her friends and family. Moreover, I loved the bond that she shared with Ravi. Ravi is pretty much the perfect boyfriend, and I loved how he stood by Pip no matter what she did. I also enjoyed Detective Hawkins and thought he spice the story.

    I wish I had read this series in order because I felt like I would have enjoyed the book even more. Overall, “As Good As Dead” is a thrilling conclusion to the series. I already bought the previous books and am excited to see all the events before this one.

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson Blog Tour hosted by TBR and BeyondTours. 

    Kait Plus Books-Journal Spread
    Devouring Books-Promo Post
    I’m All Booked Up-Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead
    lousbookstuff-Review & Favourite Quotes

    September 28th
    Confessions of a YA Reader-Review
    Books of Amber-Review & Playlist
    Books of Magic and Mystery-15 Reactions While Reading As Good As Dead & Mood Board

    September 29th
    HerBookishObsession-Review
    TeaTimeLit-Review
    The Blind Scribe-Book Look & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead
    Reading With Teresa-Review

    September 30th
    Nine Bookish Lives-Promo Post
    Books and Strokes-Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
    SubtleBookish-Review & Journal Spread
    Books Are Magic Too-Review

    October 1st
    Jen Jen Reviews-Review
    Abby’s Blog-Review & Favourite Quotes
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review
    Bookz Forever-Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead

    October 2nd
    dinipandareads-Review & Journal Spread
    The BookDutchesses -Review & TikTok
    The Broke Book Blog-Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead

    October 3rd
    Stuck in Fiction-Promo Post
    The Portuguese Bibliophile -Review & Mood Board
    The Reading Raccoon-Review
    Page by Paige Books-Review & Mood Board

  • Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Remnants Of Blood

    Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Release: September 14, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: H. F. Cunningham
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at:  Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    The Fair Folk are the stuff of myth. Stories of monsters and old magicks. But all myths carry a grain of truth. That truth is that remnants of this ancient power live on in the blood of their descendants.

    When Tannin’s grandfather dies, he leaves her with a mountain of trouble. Between cryptic journals that warn of unknown foes lying in wait and a crippling debt owed to a cruel and formidable local Laird, Tannin is thrown into a cut-throat world where she is perilously out of her depth.

    But her problems have only just begun. Secrets lurk in Tannin’s bloodstream – secrets not even she is aware of. And they want out.

    A scheming princess with the offer of an alliance. A secret society with murderous intentions. A dark past that refuses to stay buried. Tannin’s life will never be the same.

    About the Author:

    Hello! I’m HF Cunningham; a queer YA/NA fantasy author who likes puns!

    My debut novel Remnants of Blood is launching 14th September 2021 and is perfect for lovers of fantasy, intruiging characters, enemies to lovers, monsters, scottish accents and witty banter!

    Follow me on instagram hfcunningham.author or twitter hfcunningham or check out my website www.hfcunningham.com

    Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

    Remnants Of Blood Review:

    “Remnants Of Blood’ is a brilliant start to the series, and I loved every moment of it. I could not put this book down!

    This book was so much better than I had expected. What starts as a simple story of thievery soon turns into a delicious fantasy tale of magic, crypts, necropolis, revenge, and betrayal, and I devoured it.

    The author has a wonderfully addictive writing style that makes you hooked to the plot and the characters. Tannin never seems to find luck. First, she has to owe money to Clach for her grandfather’s death. Then she gets into more trouble when she breaks in with Hamish. Soon, Tannin realizes that she is in a fantastical world. Once you start reading this book, you won’t notice the time fly by.

    Speaking of which, I loved the world-building how the author incorporated its history. I was fascinated with the history of the silkies and the concept of Wielders and Remnants. The story never has a dull moment as Tannin finds herself in dungeons, trapped doors, tunnels, any crypts, to name a few.

    There are so many moments where my jaw dropped, like when Tannin wakes up in the horse stable or when she faces Sommer. Tannin is terrific in the lead with her snarky sense of humor. The author also added a nice LBGTQ+ angle to the tale, which I enjoyed. I also loved all the supporting characters like Ava and Attilo. Even Flint was hilarious. The story also ends in a shocking cliffhanger that makes me want to read the next book in the series, now!

    Overall, I loved reading “Remnants of Blood” and cannot wait to read its continuation.

    Giveaway Details:

    2 winners will win a signed finished copy of REMNANTS OF BLOOD & swag, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Remnants Of Blood

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Living in a Bookworld-Excerpt-9-20-2021
    Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post-9-20-2021
    Two Chicks on Books-Guest Post-9-21-2021
    @karendeeandabc -IG Post-9-21-2021
    Never Hollowed By The Stare-Excerpt-9-22-2021
    YA Books Central-Guest Post-9-22-2021
    The Book Review Crew-Review-9-23-2021
    @bookstagramofmine-Review-9-23-2021

    Week Two:
    GivernyReads-Review-9-24-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-24-2021
    @coffeebooksandmascara -Review-9-27-2021
    Pagesofyellow -Review-9-27-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-9-28-2021
    BookHounds YA-Review-9-28-2021
    The Momma Spot-Excerpt-9-29-2021
    Dorky Girl and Skeletor-Excerpt-9-29-2021
    Books and Kats-Excerpt-9-30-2021
    Lily Luchesi’s Blog-Review-9-30-2021
    @bookisheclectic -Review-10-1-2021
    Devouring Books-Excerpt-10-1-2021

  • Bluebird by Sharon Cameron

    Bluebird by Sharon Cameron

    Bluebird

    Bluebird by Sharon Cameron

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

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    A historical novel, set in postwar New York City.

    In 1946, Eva leaves behind the rubble of Berlin for the streets of New York City, stepping from the fiery aftermath of one war into another, far colder one, where power is more important than principles, and lies are more plentiful than the truth. Eva holds the key to a deadly secret: Project Bluebird — a horrific experiment of the concentration camps, capable of tipping the balance of world power. Both the Americans and the Soviets want Bluebird, and it is something that neither should ever be allowed to possess.

    But Eva hasn’t come to America for secrets or power. She hasn’t even come for a new life. She has come to America for one thing: justice. And the Nazi that has escaped its net.

    About the Author:

    SHARON CAMERON’s debut novel The Dark Unwinding was awarded the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators’ Sue Alexander Award for Most Promising New Work and the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award, and was named a YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults selection.

    Sharon is also the author of its sequel, A Spark Unseen; Rook, which was selected as an Indiebound Indie Next List Top Ten selection, a YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults selection, and a Parents’ Choice gold medalist; and The Forgetting, a #1 New York Times bestseller and an Indie Next Pick of the List selection, and its companion novel, The Knowing. The Light in Hidden Places received two starred reviews, was a Reese’s YA Book Club pick, and received fantastic media coverage for Sharon’s strong research and affecting prose. It has sold in 14 languages. Sharon lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee and can be found at sharoncameronbooks.com.

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

    Bluebird Review:

    This.book.was.EVERYTHING I look for in historical fiction! Dual perspectives, secrets, revenge, shocking twists and reveals, set against WWII, made “Bluebird” unforgettable!

    Firstly, I have to commend the author for the details about Germany and the War in this book. I had no idea about Project Bluebird until I read this book (and I go crazy when I learn something new from a story that makes me research it further). The author provides fascinating details about the project, along with The Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp and other events that make it riveting.

    Coming to the plot, I loved how the story started toggling between Eva and Inge. Initially, my heart went out to Inge, mainly because of how her mother treats her and the horrors she endures when she witnesses war results. But, while the story starts straightforwardly, the author takes in a different tangent that I did not expect, leading to shocking twists and reveals. Eva soon became my favorite because I loved the whole revenge aspect. Moreover, the author keeps you guessing if even the supporting cast like Jake and Cruickshanks.

    The author paces the story so well that you get emotional over some scenes. Some of the memorable moments in the tale were when Eva sees the nazi and tells Jake or searches for the photograph. I also liked the more minor storylines, like the one involving Mina and Valentine. This book makes you ponder how life for such people would have been during the time. Frankly, It felt like an eye-opener in so many ways.

    Overall, I adored “Bluebird” and found it one of the best historical novels I have read this year.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will receive a finished copy of BLUEBIRD. US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Book Tour Schedule

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

     

    Week One:

    YA Books Central-Interview-9-21-2021
    Kait Plus Books-Excerpt-9-22-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-22-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-9-23-2021
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads-Review-9-23-2021
    Book-Keeping-Review-9-24-2021
    Just Another Reader-Review-9-25-2021

    Week Two:
    Review Thick & Thin-Review-9-26-2021
    Balancing Books and Bottles with-Review-9-27-2021
    Fire and Ice-Review-9-28-2021
    The Pages In-Between-Review-9-28-2021
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-9-29-2021
    A Dream Within A Dream-Excerpt-9-30-2021
    BookHounds YA-Excerpt-9-30-2021
    Momfluenster-Review-10-1-2021
    Locks, Hooks and Books-Review-10-1-2021
    @Curlygrannylovestoread-Review-10-2-2021

    Week Three:
    Two Points of Interest-Review-10-3-2021
    Lisa Loves Literature-Review-10-4-2021
    @minnesota_mailer-Review-10-4-2021

  • It All Comes Back to You by Farah Naz Rishi

    It All Comes Back to You by Farah Naz Rishi

    It All Comes Back to You

    It All Comes Back to You by Farah Naz Rishi

    Release: September 14th, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Quill Tree Books
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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    After Kiran Noorani’s mom died, Kiran vowed to keep her dad and sister, Amira, close. Then out of the blue, Amira announces that she’s dating someone and might move cross-country with him. Kiran is thrown.

    Deen Malik is thrilled that his older brother, Faisal, has found a great girlfriend, even if it’s getting serious quickly. Maybe now their parents’ focus will shift off Deen, who feels intense pressure to be the perfect son.

    When Deen and Kiran come fact to face, they silently agree to keep their past a secret. Four years ago–before Amira and Faisal met–Kiran and Deen dated. But Deen ghosted Kiran with no explanation. Kiran will stop at nothing to find out what happened, and Deen will do anything, even if it means sabotaging his brother’s relationship, to keep her from reaching the truth. Though the chemistry between Kiran and Deen is undeniable, can either of them take down their walls?

    About the Author:

    Farah Naz Rishi is a Pakistani-American Muslim writer and voice actor, but in another life, she’s worked stints as a lawyer, a video game journalist, and an editorial assistant. She received her B.A. in English from Bryn Mawr College, her J.D. from Lewis & Clark Law School, and her love of weaving stories from the Odyssey Writing Workshop. When she’s not writing, she’s probably hanging out with video game characters. You can find her at home in Philadelphia, or on Twitter at @farahnazrishi..

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    It All Comes Back to You Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    What do you do when your ex comes back into your life because your siblings are in a relationship? The book has a charming young adult contemporary romance that I enjoyed reading.

    The story shines because of the chemistry between the two characters. I loved how the author portrayed Kiran’s realistic reactions as Deen comes back into her life. I loved Kiran and thought she was perfect. Some of the memorable scenes in the story were when Kiran sees Deen after the breakup, her shocked reaction when Amira says yes, or when she goes through her mom’s letter. Another reason why this story is beautiful is because of Kiran’s bond with Amira. The two of them share an excellent relationship and are protective of each other. Kiran goes through some strong emotions as she realizes she might not spend time with Amira like in the present. You also see a dark side towards her as she tries to stop the wedding. Even some of the supporting characters like Mona Khala were humorous.

    Similarly, the author also adds the beautiful Muslim wedding culture into the story. There were moments that I enjoyed reading, like when they explain mehndi and its significance in the wedding. I also found the scene where they talk about the conflict with going to the masjid interesting.

    Moreover, I enjoyed how the author creatively changed the storytelling style, where we also see the chat sessions between ”Devynius Foxx” and “Kasia Coribund” as they connect in “Cambria.” The two of them share profound conversations from life, growing up, being accepted, to dancing in their chat conversations, and it just makes you appreciate life.

    Overall, “It All Comes Back to You” is simply adorable, and there were so many reasons why I enjoyed reading it.

    Giveaway (US Only):

    One winner will receive a finished copy of It All Comes Back to you. The giveaway starts on September 13th and ends on September 20th.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Book Tour Schedule

    It All Comes Back to You

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the It All Comes Back to You by Farah Naz Rishi Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    September 13th
    Literati Psyche – Book Look
    A Book & Chai – Review
    It’s Just A Coffee Addicted Bibliophile – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Melancholic Blithe – 15 Reactions While Reading It All Comes Back to You
    Jen Jen Reviews – Review

    September 14th
    The Fictional Journal – Interview & Mood Board
    Fanna for Books – Review
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review & Book Tag
    Stuck in Fiction – Promo Post
    Yours A-fiction-ately – Review & Favourite Quotes

    September 15th
    Ruei’s Reading Corner – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Review
    The Ink Slinger – Review & Mood Board
    Dragon Wings and Bookish Things – Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
    Bookish Soul Chronicles – Review & Mood Board

    September 16th
    sunnysidereviews – Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read It All Comes Back to You
    shelovestoread – Review & Mood Board
    Tea.Books.Magic – Review & TikTok
    Discover Elysian – Review & Favourite Quotes
    dinipandareads – Review & Journal Spread

    September 17th
    Books Tale by Me – Review & Mood Board
    paperbacktomes – Review
    Diary of a Bookgirl – Review & Mood Board
    Love, Paola – Top 5 Reasons to Read It All Comes Back to Your & Journal Spread
    The Book Dutchesses – Review

    September 18th
    The Bookish Fairy Godmother – Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read It All Comes Back to You
    Books and Strokes – Review & Book Look
    DJREADSBOOKS – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Lost in a Bookstore – Review & Mood Board
    Nine Bookish Lives – Promo Post

    September 19th
    Myths n’ Mis-adventures – Review & Favourite Quotes
    wandering.bibliophile_ – Review
    Fafa’s Book Corner – Review
    Absorbed In Books – Top 5 Reasons to Read It All Comes Back to You & 15 Reactions While Reading It All Comes Back to You
    Clouded Galaxy Reads – Review

     

  • Shoot Down The Stars by Lauren Biel

    Shoot Down The Stars by Lauren Biel

    Shoot Down The Stars

    Shoot Down The Stars by Lauren Biel

    Release: September 14th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Lauren Biel
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon,  Kindle  

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    If you want sweet lovemaking, this book isn’t for you. ⠀
    This story is raw, gritty, and will leave you wanting more.⠀
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    Emily Maylor is a shy and self-conscious bookworm. ⠀
    David Norstar is an outgoing and popular newcomer. ⠀

    After meeting in high school, they soon develop an unshakable bond that lasts well into adulthood. ⠀
    But, with this bond comes drug addiction, unrequited love, and feelings of jealousy. ⠀
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    Will they lose one another, or will they be able to find what they have been missing in each other all along?

    About the Author:

    Lauren Biel is an up-and-coming author who loves to write angsty emotion romances, Traumances if you will. When she’s not working, she’s writing. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with her husband, her friends, or her pets. You might also find her on a horseback trail ride or sitting beside a waterfall in Upstate New York. She has a pretty normal life, yet her stories are anything but normal.

    Lauren’s stories are often emotionally raw, with lots of twists and turns. She describes her writing as “where light meets dark”, which represents how her witty humor compliments the darkness in every story. Instead of trying to mold her writing to fit in a box, she chooses to be unapologetically herself. Genre is no constraint for her, ranging from new age, to post-apocalyptic, and even paranormal. And everything in between! The common theme in every book is finding love when you least expect it. She enjoys putting her characters through tribulations, allowing their triumphs to be that much more poignant. Make sure you have your seatbelts secured. It’s always a bumpy ride.

    Visit Laurens website at: https://www.laurenbiel.com

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

    Shoot Down The Stars Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Shoot Down The Stars” is a dramatic tale of two friends who experimented if they could be more, and I liked reading it.

    The main reason I enjoyed this story is that how raw it felt at times. The author mentions substance abuse and addiction (trigger warnings) and felt portrayed the characters realistically. The main characters rely on pills to cope, and it was interesting to see how they needed each other at times. The author also adds exciting moments, like when the cop pulls them over or tells Emily about Dani. Similarly, the author shines in romance, as you get many steamy scenes in the story.

    Initially, Emily was my favorite character in the tale. My heart went out to Emily when she realized that David might not feel the same way about her. However, as the story progresses, I began to gravitate towards David. I enjoyed the way the author portrayed David. He seems to have a lot of issues. I loved how protective he becomes of her after the incident at the party and how Emily notices a change in him. Characters like Elisa, Dani, and Kevin spice up the tale as they conflict on David and Emily’s relationship. I mainly found Emily’s relationship with Kevin exciting and thought it made the story stand out.

    However, the only issue with the story is how it tends to be repetitious at times. The pacing is a bit slow at times because nothing much happens. It would have been nice if the author trimmed a few scenes to keep the story fresh.

    Apart from that, I enjoyed reading “Shoot Down The Stars” and thought the author did a lovely job for a debut novel.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will win a finished copy of SHOOT DOWN THE STARS, US Only.

    3 winners will win an ebook of SHOOT DOWN THE STARS, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Shoot Down The Stars

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Shoot Down The Stars by Lauren Biel Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-9-13-2021
    The Momma Spot-Guest Post-9-14-2021
    BookHounds-Guest Post-9-15-2021
    A Dream Within A Dream-Excerpt-9-16-2021
    Emmiepooh2 -Review-9-17-2021

    Week Two:
    yaydaydayreads-Review-9-20-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-9-21-2021
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-9-22-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-23-2021
    @minnesota_mailer-Review/ IG Post-9-24-2021

  • Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Two Winters

    Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Release: September 14th 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Bold Strokes Books
    Source: Suzy approved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle,  B&N

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    Two Winters is a contemporary YA retelling of Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale about birth, death, Catholic school, improv comedy and the healing nature of time.

    The winter of 1997 is a tragedy waiting to happen. Small-town life isn’t easy for seventeen-year-old, bisexual and closeted Paulina, especially when her best friend Mia becomes pregnant and doesn’t want to tell the baby’s father, Paulina’s other best friend, Tesla. Meanwhile, Paulina’s secret relationship with volleyball star Ani is about to go public. One fateful night, everything changes forever. 

    In the winter of 2014, Perdita, bi and proud in Chicago, is weeks away from turning seventeen. She loves her two moms, but why won’t they talk about her adoption? When Perdita meets improv performer Fenton, she discovers both a kindred soul and a willing accomplice in her search for the truth. Will Perdita find what she’s looking for? 

    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 | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Two Winters Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Two Winters” is a contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale,” and I enjoyed reading it.

    Let me preface by saying that I have not read the particular title by Shakespeare, so I’m not sure how close the retelling was. But, reading this without any comparison, I did enjoy the book. The author splits the story into two halves, of two different storylines set in two different timelines. Yet, some characters connect between them both, which makes it interesting to read.

    Frankly, I enjoyed both the story arcs. Paulina is charming in the first half, where you see her struggling with her sexuality and how she gets immersed in Mia and Tes’s life. The author creatively adds shocking moments surrounding Paulina’s love for Ani, which nicely added to the plot. Even the side story of Blair-Marie Elliott was captivating. However, I felt that the author wrote the romance much better in the second half surrounding Perdita. Perdita and Fenton make a great pair as they try to find answers to her past. One of my favorite passages from this timeline was when Perdita goes to Havendale and is in awe of the vibrant colors of the sky and the clouds. Even though it is a small moment, I loved how the author captured Perdita’s emotions.

    Moreover, the author also changes the style of writing by changing the perspectives between the two timelines. I also liked the letter inserts from someone ‘she doesn’t know’ who throws in hints about the past. This book turned out to be a lovely novel.

    Overall, “Two Winters” is a charming book to pick up if you are in the mood for some emotional drama or a fan of Shakespeare.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Two winters

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen Blog Tour hosted by Suzy approved Book Tours. 

  • Of the Lilin by Paulette Hampton

    Of the Lilin by Paulette Hampton

    Of the Lilin

    Of the Lilin by Paulette Hampton

    Release:August 27, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Paulette Hampton
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon UK, Kindle,

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    While dealing with depression, Sage attempts to pull herself into the light. What she finds is better left in the dark.

    After the loss of her mother and her stepfather’s mental breakdown, Sage Frankle agrees to move in with her aunt and cousin at the Englewood Inn. Soon, her aunt arranges for Sage to begin working through her trauma with a psychologist. As time passes, Sage finds that she is far from healing and begins to slip from reality into a realm of darkness she is unable to escape. After the arrival of her cousin’s intriguing acquaintance, Sage is forced to realize she is indeed trapped, not by her mind, but by her bloodline. 

    About the Author:

    Paulette is an indie author who holds a Master of Arts in reading education.  Her writing inspiration stems from watching fantasy and paranormal movies, as well as her real-life experiences with mental health issues.  She hopes her readers will find humor in her stories, become curious about seeking peace through the present moment, and consider reaching out for help if they are struggling with their own issues.

    ​Paulette loves drawing, watching a good thriller, kayaking, and eating chocolate…lots of it.  She and her husband live in North Carolina with their two cats, Linda Hamm and Bree.  Of the Lilin is the first book in her new upper YA paranormal series, The Sage Chronicles.

    Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | Instagram

    Of the Lilin Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The central aspect I enjoyed about the tale is how the author made me feel various emotions for the characters. None of the characters are black or white. For instance, I wouldn’t say I liked Allen initially but later grew to adore him. Similar to Aunt Madeline, I thought she was perfect, but she also has her flaws. Thomas was one of my favorite characters in the book, and Lucien also sparked the pages. Also, I was not fond of Lily, but I admit she made the story very interesting with her rivalry towards Sage.

    Moreover, the author also adds the fantasy elements beautifully as Sage realizes her special powers. Some of the scenes that stood out for me were the one with the pendant and Aunt Madeline’s shock, the storyline with the Senator, and when Marla studies Sage’s aura. I also enjoyed reading about Cambions, Wheel of Ezekiel, and the Magic Triangle of Solomon. The author paces the story nicely and slowly reveals the bigger picture and how Sage connects to it.

    However, while I enjoyed the scenes between Sage and Lily, I felt that some parts were repetitious. Sage keeps helping Lily out of trouble, and Lily keeps trying to undermine Sage. Moreover, I also found it odd how Sage had many romantic interests, from Will to Lucien to Dr. Kessler. She even finds Thomas attractive in some scenes.

    Apart from that, I enjoyed reading “Of the Lilin.” The story ends in an exciting cliffhanger that makes you want to pick the next book and continue reading. Overall I found “Of the Lilin” a lovely psychological young adult novel with paranormal elements, and I enjoyed it.

    Giveaway Details:

    2 winners will receive an eBook of OF THE LILIN, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway
     

    Book Tour Schedule

    Of the Lilin

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Of the Lilin by Paulette Hampton Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

    Week One:
    Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post-9-6-2021
    Don’t Judge, Read-Guest Post-9-7-2021
    BookHounds YA-Excerpt-9-8-2021
    BookHounds-IG Post-9-8-2021
    A Dream Within A Dream-Guest Post-9-9-2021
    Living in a Bookworld-Excerpt-9-10-2021

    Week Two:
    Review Thick & Thin-Review-9-12-2021
    The Reading Devil-Excerpt-9-13-2021
    @Curlygrannylovestoread-Review-9-14-2021
    The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-9-15-2021
    @nzgeekchic-IG Post-9-15-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-16-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-IG Post-9-16-2021
    Fyrekatz Blog-Review-9-17-2021

    Week Three:
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-9-20-2021
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee-IG Post-9-20-2021
    The Momma Spot-Excerpt-9-21-2021
    I’m Shelfish-Guest Post-9-22-2021
    hauntedbybooks-Review-9-23-2021
    YA Books Central-Excerpt-9-24-2021

    Week Four:
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt-9-27-2021
    Wottaread-Excerpt-9-28-2021
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-9-29-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-9-30-2021

  • The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    The Girls are Never Gone

    The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    Release: September 7th, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Razorbill
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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    The Conjuring meets Sadie when seventeen-year-old podcaster Dare takes an internship in a haunted house and finds herself in a life-or-death struggle against an evil spirit.

    Dare Chase doesn’t believe in ghosts.

    However, privately, she’s a supernatural skeptic. But publicly, she’s keeping her doubts to herself—because she’s the voice of Attachments, her brand-new paranormal investigation podcast, and she needs her ghost-loving listeners to tune in.

    That’s what brings her to Arrington Estate. Thirty years ago, teenager Atheleen Bell drowned in Arrington’s lake, and legend says her spirit haunts the estate. Dare takes more  interest in the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Circumstances that point to a living culprit, not the supernatural. Still, she vows to keep an open mind as she investigates, even if she’s pretty sure what she’ll find.

    But Arrington is full of surprises. Good ones like Quinn, the cute daughter of the house’s new owner. And baffling ones like the threatening messages left scrawled in paint on Quinn’s walls, the ghastly face that appears behind Dare’s own in the mirror, and the unnatural current that nearly drowns their friend Holly in the lake. As Dare goes  deeper into the mysteries of Arrington, she’ll have to rethink the boundaries of what is possible. Because if something is lurking in the lake…it might not be willing to let her go.

    About the Author:

    Sarah Glenn Marsh writes young adult novels and children’s picture books.She is also an avid fantasy reader from the day her dad handed her a copy of The Hobbit . And he promised it would change her life. Hence  she’s been making up words and worlds ever since.

    When she’s not writing, Sarah frequents the pottery studio, volunteers her time to sighthound rescue, and raises awareness about her autoimmune disease, Type 1 diabetes. She often enjoys pursuits of the nerd variety, from video games to tabletop adventures. She has always liked any  animal or a doughnut  she met

    Besides, Sarah lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and their tiny zoo of four rescued sighthounds, two birds, and many fish. She is  also the author of Fear the Drowning Deep, the Reign of the Fallen series, and several books for younger readers.

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Girls are Never Gone Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Girls Are Never Gone” is the perfect young adult paranormal horror to read if you are a fan of the genre.

    This book was the bomb! As a fan of supernatural horror, I loved everything about the story. The author did a terrific job writing the haunted house story to make it stand apart from the usual stories you read in the genre. The book has the standard secret rooms and scary apparitions, but the story is much more. But, what’s beautiful about the story is how the author fits so much into it. The author seamlessly balances the horror with Dare’s character development and the standard YA elements like angst and romance. Some scenes honestly creeped me out, right from the omen of the pigeon in the beginning. Some memorable moments were the scenes with the storm and coyotes or what happens in the docks.

    Besides, I loved how the author represented the character. Dare is a queer girl with type 1 diabetes, and I admired the author for portraying her situation realistically. We also have Waffles, the adorable service dog that helps Dare, and I loved everything about the two of them. Moreover, the author also adds a touch of romance as Dare finds herself having a crush on someone. The author shares a beautiful friendship with Quinn and Holly, and I loved the angle in which she investigates the hauntings for her podcast. There are many twists and turns to the tale about the events behind Atheleen and the Arrington Estate. Frankly, I enjoyed how the author progressed with the story and have become a fan after reading this book.

    Overall, I loved everything about the story and feel it is perfect to read close to Halloween.

    The Girls are Never Gone

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    September 6th
    AndOnSheReads – Interview
    Althea Is Reading – Review & Mood Board
    Kerri McBookNerd – Review
    Thin Bookish Girl -Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone

    September 7th
    The Character Study – Book Look & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    Jessicareadstoomuch – Review
    Always, Bookish Lovers – 15 Reactions While Reading The Girls are Never Gone
    Robinlea BookBird – Review & Favourite Quotes

    September 8th
    teatimelit – Review
    Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review, Playlist, & Favourite Quotes
    The Book Dutchesses – Review
    Theladywithbooks – Playlist & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone

    September 9th
    SubtleBookish – Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    Nine Bookish Lives – Review
    The Candid Cover – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Goddess of Books – Review

    September 10th
    Rania’s Rambling Reads – 15 Reactions While Reading The Girls are Never Gone
    Book Lover’s Book Reviews – Review
    uponthebooktower – Review & Mood Board
    Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

    September 11th
    Stuck in Fiction – Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    leosthetics – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Confessions of a YA Reader – Review
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review & Journal Spread

    September 12th
    Kait Plus Books – Interview
    Jen Jen Reviews – Review
    Paperbacks and Planners – Review & Mood Board
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

  • To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    To Break a Covenant

    To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    Release: September 21st 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Page Street Kids
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo, TBD, 

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    Debut voice Alison Ames delivers with a chilling, feminist thriller, perfect for fans of Wilder Girls and Sawkill Girls.

    Moon Basin has been haunted for as long as anyone can remember. It started when there was a big explosion in the mine. As a result, sixteen people were killed. The disaster made it impossible to live in town, with underground fires spewing ash into the sky. But life in New Basin is just as fraught. As such, the ex-mining town relies on its haunted reputation to bring in tourists. But there’s more truth to the rumors than most are willing to admit.  And it is believed the mine still has a hold on everyone who lives there.

    Clem and Nina form a perfect loop, best friends forever, and perhaps something more. Their circle opens up for a strange girl named Lisey with a knack for training crows, and Piper, whose father is fascinated with the mine in a way that’s anything but ordinary.  Further, the people of New Basin start experiencing strange phenomena. All of a sudden, they observe sleepwalking, night terrors, voices that only they can hear. And no matter how many vans of ghost hunters roll through, nobody can get to the bottom of what’s really going on. Which is why the girls decide to enter the mine themselves.

    About the Author:

    Alison Ames lives in Colorado with a lot of animals and her almost-wife. Besides, she loves birds, comics, and the rule of three. THE HAUNTING OF MOON BASIN is her debut novel. Also, Find her on social media @2furiosa. And if you know (or are) Harry Styles she insists you do so..

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    To Break a Covenant Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “To Break a Covenant” is an AMAZING Young Adult Horror novel and one of the most notable YA books I have read this year!

    This book gave me goosebumps! When the story began, I did not know what to expect. I thought it would be a story of Clem with her friends solving a mystery of Moon Basin. But the story is so much more than that!

    The author writes the story in a deliciously gripping manner where the horror slowly creeps on you. The story had me on the edge of my seat after we see Carlisle starts to change. The story gets chilly and gruesome as you continue the tale, and some scenes would probably give me nightmares. One of my favorite moments is when the girls go to the mines for the first time and how they all experience something different down there. The author also makes the book interesting by including interview transcripts with various townspeople impacted by the mines.

    Moreover, I loved all the characters. It is so hard to choose a favorite because I thought they brought something new to the story. Clem and Nina are unique, and I loved the possible romance between the two. Piper got a fresh look at the story as the newbie in town, and Lisey a sense of mystery with her obsession with crows. Another reason why I loved the story is that the author also adds some drama to the characters. I loved how Nina gets jealous of Piper and the scenes where they confront their feelings.

    Overall, you must read “To Break a Covenant” if you are in the mood for a haunting Young Adult read with memorable characters.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    To Break a Covenant

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

    Week One:
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-13-2021
    BookHounds YA-Review-9-14-2021
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-9-15-2021
    Celiamcmahonreads-Review-9-16-2021
    Thindbooks-Review-9-17-2021

    Week Two:
    Geauxgetlit-Review-9-20-2021
    Momfluenster-Review-9-21-2021
    Books and Zebras @jypsylynn-Review-9-22-2021
    fictitious.fox-Review-9-23-2021
    Ficticiouswonderland-Review-9-24-2021  

  • A Girl From Forever by Yolanda McCarthy

    A Girl From Forever by Yolanda McCarthy

    A Girl From Forever by Yolanda McCarthy

    Release: August 27th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Independently published
    Source: Xpresso Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    THEY’RE LYING TO YOU.

    The secretive Forever Institute towers over London. Some say it’s a cult. Others call it mafia. To seventeen-year-old Fern, Forever is simply home, run by the scientists who created her. A home she’s never been allowed to leave.

    Forever gave Fern everything. A body that will never age. Psychic abilities, if she can work out how to access them. A purpose: Fern will be part of a new dawn for humanity, although she’s never been told exactly how.

    Then Fern is contacted by a cryptic telepath from outside the Institute, and learns some dark truths that make her question everything she’s been taught. Children are being murdered, and Fern is in danger. But her new friend has secrets of his own…

    SOME LIES ARE LETHAL. 

    About the Author:

    Yolanda grew up in London, where she worked as a lawyer, a supermarket assistant, a civil servant, and at a cat shelter. Not in that order. Her work took her to California, Serbia, and Dubai, but her fondest memories are of Bermuda. (She’s still homesick for Bermuda. Especially the pink sands of Elbow Beach…)

    She now lives in Kent with her husband and son, where she writes all kinds of speculative fiction. Sometimes she climbs mountains..

    Website | Goodreads

    A Girl From Forever Review:

    “A Girl From Forever” was a gripping Young adult fantasy with action and adventure and was a thrilling read.

    I enjoyed the way the author wrote this story. The author also adds something exciting in every chapter that makes you not want to put the book down. There were so many scenes where I was at the edge of my seat. Some such are when Fern gets hit in the jaw or when a man points a gun at her.

    The author also wrote the characters wonderfully. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Fern in the lead as she tries to figure out what is happening. Imagine finding out that the people who created you had ulterior motives. The author wrote Fern and the concept of the Forever Institute very creatively, and I liked the idea of the Vol. Fern starts to suspect everything when she finds out that Forever is killing people for being Vol.

    Moreover, the author also wrote the chemistry between Fern and Rehan nicely. While the two of them don’t start on the best, the author progressed their storyline seamlessly. Rehan was also quite complex, as I didn’t know if he was genuine or not. Some of my other favorite characters in the book were Anna and Lucas. I adored Fern’s scenes with Anna and how she feels obligated towards her. The author also wrote the supporting characters like Katina, Arlo, and Lia nicely.

    The author also ends the story on a friendly note that makes you want to continue learning about the world of Forever. Overall, “A Girl From Forever” is an entertaining Young adult fantasy novel with surprising twists and a thrilling adventure.

     

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the A Girl From Forever by Yolanda McCarthy Blog Tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours. 

    September 6th
    –Rants N Scribbles >> Excerpt
    –GaBooksLoverX >> Review
    –Don’t Judge, Read >> Review

    September 7th
    –Suzy Turner  >> Guest Post
    –Candlelight Reading  >> Excerpt
    –Rincón de Joss / Joss’s Corner >> Guest Post
    –Read Your Writes Book Reviews >> Top 10 List

    September 8th
    –Living in a Bookworld >> Excerpt
    –Rajiv’s Reviews >> Review
    –Books, Tea, Healthy Me >> Review

    September 9th
    –Archaeolibrarian – I Dig Good Books! >> Review
    –I’m Into Books  >> Excerpt
    –The Phantom Paragrapher >> Review

    September 10th
    –Bookish Yarn >> Review
    –The Avid Reader  >> Review
    –Devouring Books >> Top 10 List