Mini Book Reviews- Forever, interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid and The Grace of Kings by Ken Liu!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

I wanted to do some reviews of some books that I really enjoyed but I didn’t want them to be full reviews because I find calling them full reviews quite daunting (at least they are for me🙈😂). So I decided to do some mini reviews lol.

So today’s post is going to be some mini reviews of Forever, interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid and the grace of kings by Ken Liu. Two very different books, but both really great in their own way.

Let’s start with forever, interrupted which I gave five stars.

Im not sure what I was expecting when I went into this book but, it certainly wasn’t to fall in love with it. I really liked the flashback scenes. At the beginning they did kind of throw me off as I wasn’t expecting flashbacks (don’t ask me why) but, I liked them more as I continued reading.

Bens mother was quite annoying at times but, I understand they are both grieving and why the mother was hostile towards Elsie. The development of their relationship, the understanding and comfort they provided for each other afterwards was so heartwarming. I loved seeing them develop into family.

This was such a hard hitting and emotional book, I loved the way grief was explored and how Elsie slowly started to heal. Really recommend this one if you are a fan of contemporary romance/ fiction and a fan of Taylor Jenkins Reid.

Next up the grace of kings which I gave 4 stars.

I finally managed to finish this book! Who am I? This book mainly follows Kuni and Mata. Kuni is my favourite character so far as well as jia, I liked her and Kunis dynamic, despite how tragically complicated it was. Ken Liu has such a unique writing style and apparently he doesn’t plan what he writes, which is amazing and shocking to me after reading this. I did find it a bit jarring at times as well as confusing and quite slow at the beginning but I don’t think I helped myself because of the fact that I started it, put it down, picked it back up and then repeated this process a few times before really getting into it lol.

This world is really vast and complex and I can tell that it is only going to grow from here. The gods and there involvement was really interesting and I loved their commentary throughout the book. I honestly can’t decide whether this book is character or plot driven and after I finished this, I still don’t know. So, I can only say that it is both character and plot driven. There is still so much more of this world to explore, so much left to resolve and that ending! I’m going to have to take a break from this series for my emotional well-being😂 but I’m intrigued to see where book 2 is going to go.

If you like your fantasy books confusing, with a lot of characters😁, politics, war and a story that is equal parts plot and character driven, I recommend. It really is worth it, but it isn’t for everyone.

Let me know if you like this style of mini reviews. I might do more of these, I’m not sure. Have you read either of these books? Did you enjoy them? Are you interested in reading them? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

WWW Wednesday! 15th June!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is a www Wednesday. I wanted to finally start doing these again, since I have started reading more consistently again, finally! I also wanted to do them because I didn’t make a tbr for April (or January or February or March🤫 😂) and I thought this would be a great way to see what I am reading right now until my wrap up at the end of the month!

So for those who don’t know www Wednesday is a weekly meme originally hosted by daily rhythm but was revived by Samantha @Takingonaworldofwords.

Without further ado, let’s get into it;

Currently reading;

The tenant of wildfell hall by Anne Bronte

I’m about 15% into this one and I’m really loving it so far. I don’t think I have read anything by Anne Bronte before but I’m surprised by how much I like the writing style.

Hall of smoke by H. M. Long

I have been meaning to pick this one up for a while. This book (in my opinion) is very unique! I’m loving learning the history of this world, the mythology and about the gods.

Aru shah and the end of time by Roshani Chokshi

There are two books in our middle grade book club this month (middlegrademarvels) , one is train to impossible places, which I have already read and this one. So far I have only read a couple of chapters but it’s really fun so far.

Warriors ransom by Jeff Wheeler

This is the second book in the first Argentines series. I loved this first one and (so far), I am loving this one too!

Recently read;

Percy Jackson and the sea of monsters by Rick Riordan

I didn’t like this one as much as the first one but I still enjoyed it and gave it 4 stars.

Son of shadow by John Lenehan

Son of shadow was really good, I loved the mythology and folklore and the characters. Read my full review Here if you are interested.

Planning on reading next;

Best served cold by Joe Abercrombie

I’m so glad that I haven’t been making tbrs because it would be embarrassing if everyone knew how many tbrs this book has been on🙈.

Beach read by Emily Henry

I have been hearing so many good things about book lovers by Emily Henry and really want to read it, but I actually own this one so I decided to read this one first.

So, that is everything I am reading and plan on reading this week and hopefully, plan on finishing this month. What are you all reading this week? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you much for reading!

April Wrap Up!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my April tbr, It has been ages since I posted a wrap up post!

I took part in a few readathons this month including realmathon and magical readathon. My wrap ups are all over the place at the moment and I’m so late on posting them🤦‍♀️.

5 stars;

The highland falcon thief by M. G. Leonard

I cannot believe that I didn’t pick this up sooner! It was really good! I read this book so fast. I really loved Hal and the friends he met along the way. The mystery itself was really intriguing and kept me guessing and engaged. I found myself guessing along with them and I’m pleased to say it was mostly right😂. I was so engrossed by this book and the writing that I had to read book 2 straight away.

Kidnap on the California comet by M. G. Leonard

This is the second book in the adventures on trains series. I didn’t think I could read this one any quicker than the first one but I read this in one sitting. There were parts I guessed and things I missed and I liked that, it means I’m not dumb😂 but also that there was still a bit of a surprise for me at the end. Hal is a great character and I like following him and his uncle on their adventures and the characters they meet on the way. I’m moving on to book 3 as soon as I can get my hands on a copy.

Murder on the safari star by M. G. Leonard

This is the third book in the adventures on trains series. A series which I picked up because I had heard good things about it and have not been disappointed with it yet. Each book is so good, so quick to read and an exciting adventure. I love following Hal and his uncle on these adventures and meeting all the other characters along the way, as well as trying to guess the clues and who is behind the mystery. I have mostly been correct about who done it so far but haven’t put all the pieces together and there is always something that surprises me, which I think is the best type of mystery. It means I’m not stupid and also leaves room for surprise, I think that’s just me though 😂.

The downstairs girl by Stacey Lee

I was really intrigued by the synopsis of this book but what I didn’t expect was to fall in love with this authors writing style. This book was so beautifully written. Not only was it educational, it was also such a compelling story. Jo, our main character was really compelling and I loved watching her grow and her journey throughout the novel.

4.5 stars;

The three musketeers by Alexander Dumas

The biggest complaint I have about this book is that it became quite slow in a few sections, that is it. I really enjoyed my time reading this. I had read snippets as a child and had heard mentions of quotes and stuff from others who had read it and enjoyed it but I had never read the full book myself. I already own book 2 in this trilogy and can’t wait to continue.

Cooper B and the scavenger hunt by Michael Leighton

I expected I was going to enjoy this but wow! I really loved this one! Cooper and his friend are great characters, I can’t wait to find out more about Coopers past and understanding what the reveal at the end means. I love school settings and portals and both were so well done in this book. I wish we would have got a bit more of the lessons themselves but I still enjoyed learning what we know so far and the magic is interesting. I’m hoping book 2 is out soon!

Arm of the Sphinx by Josiah Bancroft

This is a great second book. I was so worried about picking this up, I was so hyped for it that I was afraid it would have second book syndrome. I’m happy to say that it didn’t, I really enjoyed it. I still love senlin and these characters and can’t wait to read book 3.

All Rhodes lead here by Mariana Zapata

Omg! I really loved this book. I’m not usually bothered whether a romance book is slow burn or not but I really enjoyed this one and boy is it slow burn lol. Besides the romance (which was so well done) I also loved the friendships and family aspects of this book. This is one that I would likely read again and I am now a huge fan of Mariana Zapatas writing.

Legacy by Shannon Messenger

This is the 8th book in the keeper of the lost cities. There was a big reveal in this book that I was surprised by and also not surprised by. I kind of guessed in one of the previous books and then forgot😂 but I’m glad I forgot in a way because it become a surprise when the reveal happened, if you have read it you probably know what reveal I am talking about. Anyway, this series is just great. This book is over 800 pages I’m pretty sure and I read it in 2 ish days, they are so fun to read.

4 stars;

Dread wood by Jennifer Killick

This book is not something I would usually read but it definitely surprised me. I was really intrigued by this book and wanted to know what was going to happen next. I read it in one sitting and it was so easy to read. If you want to hear my full thoughts on this book, I have a review for it .

Dr Jekyll and mr Hyde by R. L. Stevenson

This book was very short but very entertaining. At first I had no idea what was going on, obviously I have heard about Dr Jekyll and mr Hyde but I didn’t read the synopsis before starting it so I didn’t know a lot. This story was beautifully crafted and well written (although I’m not surprised as it’s RLS). I read this so quickly and that ending!

The nature of witches by Rachel griffin

I really liked the audiobook for this one. I love how the magic was used and crafted in this book and the message of real life issues. I liked following Clara as she starts to believe in herself and her abilities again. The development of the relationship between Clara and sang was really well done and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one.

Orphan, monster, spy by Matt Killeen

This book had me on the edge of my seat. It made me sad, happy, angry, annoyed and all the other emotions. I really liked the spy element and the dynamic between the characters, this was a book with serious issues but it had some really humorous moments. A really great read. I will hopefully pick up book 2 when I can.

Amanda Cadabra and the cellar of secrets by Holly Bell

This is the second book in the Amanda Cadabra mystery series. I really enjoyed book 1 and I liked book 2 a bit more. Amanda is such a great character and I really hope her relationship with trelawney develops into something more. Each book gets better and I’m really excited for book 3.

The vanderbeekers of 141st street by Karina Yan Glaser

I really liked the family dynamics in this book and how the children were doing everything they could to stay in the home they have lived in their whole lives. I didn’t like mr Beiderman that much to begin with but he did grow on me. This was a really quick read and really heartwarming warming.

The winter king by Christine Cohen

This book was fun. It’s a middle grade polar fantasy and it definitely gave me the vibes. I liked the main character, she was very protective of her family. There were some parts of this book that irritated me a bit, I think that was just a me thing though.

3.5 stars;

The time hunters by Carl Ashmore

The time travel element of this book was really good. There were just some things that annoyed me about this book, I’m not going to say what they were because spoilers but it was a fun read and I did enjoy my time reading it.

Markheim by Robert Louis Stevenson

As you can probably tell by the amount of Robert L Stevenson’s books in this wrap up, I really love all the books I have read by him so far. Markheim is another of my favourites. It is told from the perspective of a murder and if you know me you know that I love reading books inside a persons head, an inner monologue and I really liked this one. It is so short and I read it in less than 10 minutes but it kept me hooked. Obviously because it is a short story I don’t really know how to rate it as it doesn’t have all the elements that I look for in a 4 or 5 star read but I still really enjoyed it.

Unsouled by Will Wight

I was pleasantly surprised by this book, I liked it much more than I thought. The magic system in this book was really interesting, as was the main character, Lindon. He is looked down upon by his clan and i liked seeing his development. I did feel like it was slow in parts but this world has been set up nicely and I am intrigued to see where it will go. I will likely continue on with the series but not anytime soon.

The amazing mr blunden by Antonia Barber

There was some things that annoyed me about he characters but I did find the idea and story really interesting. The time travelling aspect of this book is really interesting, I always love a good time travel story. This book is quite short though and I kind of wanted more. I

3 stars;

The merry men by R. L. Stevenson

This is another short story by Robert L. Stevenson. It is probably my least favourite one so far but I still liked it. I liked the writing and the story but just overall it wasn’t my favourite.

The girl and the ghost by hanna Alkaf

I’m a bit disappointed that I didn’t like this book as much as I thought I would. Something about it just didn’t sit well with me and I can’t figure out what it was. I did like the premise and the story was interesting but I lost interest.

So, those are all the books that I read in April! What books did you read in April? Did you have any five star read? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

Son of Shadows by John Lenahan- Blog Tour!

Hi everyone,

I feel like this is my first post in months. Today’s post is my review for the blog tour of son of shadows. Thank you to the publisher, author and Dave!

Genre: Fantasy

Length: 310 Pages

Publishing: 25^th June 2022 (ebook), 25th July (paperback) different based on country.

Synopsis;

From the author of the Shadowmagic trilogy.
A world of faeries, leprechauns and dragons – and magic fuelled by the blood of trees. A mystery portal to the Real World. And a pair of curious young adventurers who know they shouldn’t step through it…

Meet Fergal the Second, nicknamed ‘two’. Or ‘Doe’, in his own language. He can do magic. But, for the moment, he’s forgotten where he’s from. Or what’s happened to his blind friend Ruby. He’s actually from Tir na Nog, the enchanted world of Shadowmagic, where a new generation of the royal House of Duir are cheeking their parents, preparing for adulthood and itching to see the Real World for themselves – whatever the peril

My thoughts;

I love Celtic mythology in books but I can never seem to find very many. It usually takes me at least 60 ish pages to really get into a book but the writing style in this one definitely hooked me from the beginning. When we are introduced to our main character he doesn’t remember anything about where his is from or who he is and I liked that in a way because i liked learning everything with him. I’m pretty sure if you read the other series then you probably know more before reading this but I liked that I got to figure out who he is at the same time he does (I hope that makes sense).

As a character, Doe is really likeable and I enjoyed his perspective. I liked his friendship with Sarah as well as his friendship with stony and Ruby who were all really great characters as well.

How magic is used in this world is so interesting. I loved the use of gold, I haven’t read a magic system like this one before and it really intrigued me. I wasn’t expecting there to be elements of court intrigue and politics, two elements I really enjoy in any fantasy and they were very well done. The jump between the past in Tir Na Nog and the present in the real world was really well done also, I find that to be quite jarring at times but I was captivated by the atmosphere of Tir Na Nog and finding out how Doe lost his memory.

Reading this book has definitely convinced me to pick up the previous series written in this world called shadowmagic and I cannot wait to continue on with this series! If you love folklore, fun and really well written fantasy, pick up this book!

Author bio;

Born in Philadelphia but long settled in the UK, John Lenahan is an acclaimed magician and TV performer. He fronted his own BBC2 magic series Stuff the White Rabbit, played the voice of the toaster in Red Dwarf and has appeared on a wide range of entertainment shows including TFI Friday, Comedy Café and Celebrity Squares. He is a member of the exclusive Magic Circle. He is also the author of the popular Shadowmagic trilogy, a fantasy adventure series for young adults which combines Irish folk myth with 21st-century wit. Son of Shadow takes up the story once more, following the noble houses of the magical parallel world of Tir na Nog into the next generation

Media links;

Goodreads

Purchase links;

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Amazon CA

Blackwells

Don’t forget to check out the other reviews and blogs on the tour!

May TBR!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am going to be doing my May tbr. This is an extremely long one and I have my end of year assessment due this month… I like to torture myself😂. This tbr is 28 books long!

Anyway, let’s get into it;

Physical;

Moons over soho by Ben Aaronovich

This is the second book in the rivers of London series. It is the sixth ish time that this book has been on my tbr😂. I have read precisely one chapter and haven’t gotten any further in months because I was reading so many other things. I’m really hoping that I can finish this one this month, even though I am, again reading so many things. But, it isn’t that long though.

The poppy war by R. F. Kuang

This book as also been on a few tbrs. I have read this already but I really want to reread it to carry on with the series. I’m hoping that I can at least make a good dent in this one this month. I really loved it the first time and I’m hoping I love it just as much the second time.

Daughter of the forest by Juliet Marillier

I own a few books by Juliet Marillier and I really want to start reading them as I have heard good things. From what I remember this is a loose retelling of the black swan. I love retellings and I’m really excited to try this one.

The warrior heir by Cinda Williams Chima

I own both this series and the first book in the seven realms series. I didn’t know which one to start with so I just picked this one. I don’t really know anything about this series but I do remember that I liked the sound of it when I bought it.

Under a painted sky by Stacey Lee

After I finished reading the downstairs girl by Stacey Lee, I went out and bought all of Stacey Lee’s books. This is her first published novel so I decided to go back to the beginning. I loved the downstairs girl and this one sounds really good. It’s set in 1849, it follows a Chinese girl as she navigates the Oregon trail along with help from another girl she met along the way. That is my example of a summary😂.

The monsters of rookhaven by Pádraig Kenny

This is a middle grade horror book (I think it’s middle grade anyway) and I think it follows monsters. It gives me addams family vibes and the cover of this one is so pretty😍. I have heard great things about this book and can’t wait to try it.

Best served cold by Joe Abercrombie

Best served cold is another book that has been on multiple tbrs. I don’t know I haven’t got to this one yet but I’m going to try and make this one a priority this month. This is a standalone revenge story but it is part of the first law series. I really enjoyed first law and I’ve heard the standalones are better so I’m really excited.

Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

I have owned and wanted to get to this book for soo long. I read Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson and really enjoyed it. I didn’t know whether to start with elantris or the final empire but since I am in the middle of a few series right now I went with the one that is a standalone? At least I think it is a standalone, let me know.

Theft of swords by Michael J. Sullivan

I have been wanting to read this one for so long. I have heard so many people say that they love this series and every time I hear someone talk about it I think to myself “that sounds like something that I will like” and never find time to pick it up.

There before the chaos by K. B. Wagers

This is the first book in the farian war trilogy. What what I know, this is the second trilogy in a companion series, it follows on from the previous one but can be read as a trilogy. If that is wrong please let me know. The only reason I am really starting with this one is because I already own it and after reading the synopsis I am pretty sure I have spoiled something from the first trilogy. Either way, I’m excited about this one. I haven’t read a good space opera in a while.

Diary of an accidental witch by Honor and Perditta Cargill

This is a middle grade book. It’s quite short and I’m likely going to read it during Becca’s (from Beccasandthebooks) 48 hr BookoplAthon readathon which takes place from the 21-22nd of this month. It sounds really fun and fast, a great pallet cleanser in between all these other chunky books.

Percy Jackson and the lightening thief by Rick Riordan

I read the first book in the Percy Jackson series many many years ago when I was a kid but I’m embarrassed to say, I never continued on with the series. I really want to do so now because I want to be part of the hype surrounding this series. I’m hoping that even though I am reading this in my 20s I will still enjoy it! I will likely read this one for the 48 hr readathon also.

The tenant of wildfell hall by Anne Bronte

This is my classic for the month. I am trying to read a lot one classic a month, so far I have managed to do just that the last couple of months. I don’t know a lot about this one and I’m kind of glad because I want to go into it without knowing anything.

Danger at dead mans pass by M. G. Leonard

This is another of my pallet cleanser reads. I may read this one also for the 48 hr readathon, depending on the other prompts. These books are so good though and I can read them so quickly so, if not I will likely read it on the 31st May.

Ebooks/audiobooks;

The case of the missing moonstone by Jordan Stratford

The case of the missing moonstone is a mystery middle grade series. The audiobooks are so short (approximately 3 hrs) and one 2x speed can be done within an hour and a half. I think this one is going to be fun.

Kings of the wyld by Nicholas Eames

I have had this audiobook on my tbr now for a while. It was on last months tbr but I didn’t get to it. I really like mercenary stories and I have heard this is a really good one.

Shadow of the fox by Julie Kagawa

Another beautiful cover!😍 I had shadow of the fox on my tbr for last month. I don’t know much about this one either, only that I have heard really good things about it.

The traitor god by Cameron Johnston

The traitor god has also been on quite a few of my monthly tbrs. It is a top priority this month so I should get to it quite early on in the month. I believe this is a grim dark fantasy duology with morally grey characters, magicians, daemons and gods. It sounds really good. I can’t wait!

Knights ransom by Jeff Wheeler

I have read one series by Jeff Wheeler (the legends of muirwood series) and really loved it. I have been trying to decide which series to read next and when I read the synopsis for this one, it really caught my attention.

Lumberjanes Vol 1 by ND Stevenson and Grace Ellis

I haven’t read many comics, in fact I can’t remember reading any comics. When looking for beginner recommendations, this one caught my eye. I had heard jade from jadeyraereads say she really likes this series so I decided to give it a go.

City of thorns by C. N. Crawford

This cover😍. This is a popular fantasy romance that I have heard so many people talk about recently. I don’t really use tiktok but from what I have heard it is really popular on booktok also. I’m pretty sure this is some kind of enemies to lovers with daemons and politics, it sounds really good.

Spyxfamily by Tatsuya Endo

I haven’t read many graphic novels either but I have heard many great things about. It features a spy who has to find himself a family in order to blend in and complete his mission. It sounds really funny.

Night latch by Anela Deen

I believe Anela Deen is the author of beneath cruel fathoms which is another book I really want to read as it was a part of BBNYA and was a finalist. This one though is on kindle unlimited so I wanted to read it first because it sounded interesting. It features death which intrigues me.

The sun down motel by Simone st. James

Simone st. James is a really popular thriller author and Ive been wanting to read one of her books for a while. I believe this one has dual timelines which I always like if done right and I can’t wait. I’m also really intrigued by the book of cold cases and if I like this one, I’m going to pick that one up also.

Miss Peregrines home for peculiar children by Ransom Riggs

This book has been out for a while now and at the time I had no interest in reading it. But recently I read the synopsis and realised it actually sounds interesting so I’m going to give it a go. I think this is at least a six book series right now but I’m intrigued enough to at least try it. I also didn’t realise that it is set in Wales, which if you don’t know, is where I am from.

If we were villains by M. L. Rio

I am already part way through this one and I’m really liking it so far. I liked Shakespeare in school and really liked the references in this book. This is about a murder that took place at a very prestigious university where our main character (who was arrested for this murder) studied and preformed Shakespeare. The main character (Oliver) tells his story to a detective after he is released from prison. Does that make sense, I’m not very good at writing synopses.

Hall of smoke by H. M. Long

Hall of smoke has such a pretty cover😍. I’m reallly intrigued by this one, I know every little about it but I think this is also mythology inspired which I love.

The magic misfits by Neil Patrick Harris

Last but not least is the magic misfits. I don’t think I am actually going to get to this one. It isn’t a priority but I wanted to p

Why do I always choose the large books when I have an essay due, I am my own worst enemy lol. Anyway, that is everything that I plan on reading this month. What are your reading plans for May let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

March Wrap Up!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am posting my March wrap up. We are going to ignore how late this post is😂. I read a total of 11 books in March which isn’t my best but still decent.

Let’s start off with the physical that I read this month;

4.5 stars;

The tale of despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

This was such a beautiful story. I loved despereaux, I never thought there would be a time were I would be so obsessed with a mouse😂. If you enjoy middle grade and children’s books, I highly recommend! It’s such an entertaining read.

What once was mine by Liz Braswell

This was a really great retelling. I have read almost all of the twisted tales now and have loved nearly all the ones I have read. I loved the friendship between rapunzel and Gina as well as the progression of the relationship between rapunzel and Flynn. I really like Liz Braswells writing and the way she told this story

Amanda Cadabra and the hidey hole truth by Holly Bell

I really enjoyed this story. Amanda is a great charade restaurant so far and I loved the magic in this. I did enjoy the mystery element to this although, I was expecting there to be a bit more of it. I felt like the mystery element was a bit rushed but I still enjoyed it.

The hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien

I think if I would have read this one when I was much younger I would of been soo obsessed. I still really enjoyed myself reading this book and would definitely read it again! I really liked the characters and the story, this book was a great reading experience!

4 stars;

Opposite ends of the sea by Daniela A. Mera

It has been a couple of months since I have read a fae book (I think) but it has been even longer since I have read one that I have enjoyed. This is a companion series and so this book was a standalone which, I thought was refreshing and it didn’t feel like it was rushed except for the end, the resolution, to me it could of been spread out a bit more but for a book this size, the pacing was done well in my opinion. I liked the magic, the characters and the romance. I’m intrigued to see who the next book follows.

Odriels heirs by Hayley Reece Chow

I wasn’t hooked until about two chapters into this one. The world was very interesting and I really liked Kaia. I enjoyed watching her development with klaus. There were quite a few nice surprises in this book including talking animals. Check out my full review Here.

The power of Poppy Pendle by Natasha Lowe

This book was so fun and engaging. I loved the school setting even though some of the characters were a little annoying. I liked Poppy and the magic but my favourite thing about this book was all the baking scenes. Poppy passion for baking is so infectious and I hope I can attempt to do some of the recipes soon!

Lady Ludmilla’s accidental letter by Sofi Laporte

This book really surprised me. I was not expecting to like it as much as I did. I really liked the letters between addy and Lu. I was really liked figuring out who addy was even though looking back there were clues that made it obvious. If you are thinking of reading this book don’t do what I did and read it at 1am because it will make you feel dumb😂. A really fun read though and super quick

3.5 stars;

The great gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

I have heard many different things about this book and many mixed opinions. I vaguely remember reading parts of this for something in school but we never studied this particular classic in English class so I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t love any of the characters but I think that was intentional. I had mixed feelings on Daisy in particular, one minute I liked her (or at least understood her in a way) and the next I really really disliked her lol. I did like the writing though and the ending surprised me. Not my favourite classic overall, but still I’m glad I read it.

3 stars;

Tourmaline by James Brogden

I was seriously considering DNF’ing this book at 100 pages. It wasn’t really making sense to me, but I did continue on and finish it. It did eventually start to make a bit more sense but I just wasn’t that invested in what was happening or anything to do with the story. I did like some of the characters though, I think I was just disappointed as it wasn’t what I was expecting.

The Christmas murder game by Alexandra Benedict

The setting of this book! It’s set in Yorkshire in a country house and it’s so atmospheric and snowy. It literally snowed here last night as I was reading this and I couldn’t have timed it more perfectly😂. Lily was a great character and I did (for the most part) like the mystery even though it was quite predictable in places.

So that is everything that I read in March. Not my best reading month but not bad. What do you read in March? Let me know in the comments below

Thank you so much for reading!

May Day by Josey Jaffrey- Spotlight.

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is a spotlight for May Day by Josey Jaffrey.

Synopsis;

If the murderer you’re tracking is a vampire, then you want a vampire detective. Just maybe not this one.

It’s not that Jack Valentine is bad at her job. The youngest member of Oxford’s Seekers has an impressive track record, but she also has an impressive grudge against the local baron, Killian Drake.
When a human turns up dead on May Morning, she’s determined to pin the murder on Drake. The problem is that none of the evidence points to him. Instead, it leads Jack into a web of conspiracy involving the most powerful people in the country, people to whom Jack has no access. But she knows someone who does.
To get to the truth, Jack will have to partner up with her worst enemy. As long as she can keep her cool, Drake will point her to the ringleaders, she’ll find the murderer and no one else will have to die.
Body bags on standby.

Author bio;

Josie is the author of multiple novels and short stories. Most of those are set in the Silverse, a pre- and post-apocalyptic world filled with vampires and zombies.

She is currently working on a range of fantasy and historical fiction projects (both adult and YA). Ultimately, she hopes to be a hybrid author, both traditionally- and self-published.

After finishing her degree in Literae Humaniores (Classics) at the University of Oxford, Josie wasn’t sure what to do with her life.

She slogged through a brief stint working for an investment bank in London during the 2008 credit crunch, then converted to law and qualified as a solicitor specialising in intellectual property. She worked at a law firm for five years before moving to a UK-based international publisher in 2016. Whilst she loved law, in the end she didn’t love it quite as much as writing, which she now does almost full time.

Josie lives in Oxford with her husband and two cats (Sparky and Gussie), who graciously permit human cohabitation in return for regular feeding and cuddles. The resulting cat fluff makes it difficult for Josie to wear black, which is largely why she gave up being a goth. Although the cats are definitely worth it, she still misses her old wardrobe

Media links;

Goodreads

Purchase links;

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Amazon CA

Don’t forget to check out the other blogs on the tour!

Dread Wood by Jennifer Killick- Blog tour!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is my spot on the blog tour for dread wood by Jennifer Killick. Thank you so much to the author, publisher and of course, Dave!

Synopsis;

It’s basically the worst school detention ever. When classmates (but not mate-mates) Hallie, Angelo, Gustav and Naira are forced to come to school on a SATURDAY, they think things can’t get much worse. But they’re wrong. Things are about to get seriously scary.

What has dragged their teacher underground? Why do the creepy caretakers keeping humming the tune to Itsy Bitsy Spider? And what horrors lurk in the shadows, getting stronger and meaner every minute . . .? Cut off from help and in danger each time they touch the ground, the gang’s only hope is to work together. But it’s no coincidence that they’re all there on detention. Someone has been watching and plotting and is out for revenge . . .

My thoughts:

When I got the email about this book I read the synopsis and was very curious but horror/ thriller novels are not really my thing but it was middle grade so I decided to give it a go and I’m glad that I did. By the time I got around to picking it up I had forgotten what it was about and I’m actually glad because it added to my enjoyment of the book.

I really liked our characters and following them through the book. I also liked how they became closer as the story went on and worked together to uncover what was going on.

There were a few places were I lost interest a bit but my curiosity was piqued on the next page or during the next chapter and as the story went on each chapter had me more intrigued than the last. I wanted to know what was happening. The creepiness of this book definitely kept me hooked as well. I was satisfied with how it ended and how everything came together.

Jennifer Killick has a great writing style in my opinion. This book was really easy to get through, I read it in one sitting and kept turning pages because I wanted to find out what was going on. If you enjoy middle grade and horror/ thriller books, this one is worth picking up!

Author bio;

Jennifer Killick is the author of Crater Lake, the Alex Sparrow series, and middle-grade sci-fi adventure Mo, Lottie and the Junkers. She regularly visits schools and festivals, and her books have three times been selected for The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge. She lives in Uxbridge, in a house full of children, animals and Lego. When she isn’t busy mothering or step-mothering (which isn’t often) she loves to read, write and run, as fast as she can.

Media links:

Twitter

Goodreads

Purchase links;

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Blackwells

Thank you so much for reading! Don’t forget to check out the other blogs on the tour!

Our Bloody Pearl by D. N. Bryn- Spotlight

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is a spotlight for our bloody Pearl by D. N. Bryn.

This book was one of the BBNYA finalists! BBNYA is a yearly competition where Book Bloggers from all over the world read and score books written by indie authors. If you are an author and wish to learn more about the BBNYA competition, you can visit the official website www.bbnya.com or Twitter @bbnya_official.

The sign-ups will soon be open for the 2022 BBNYA competition, be it for authors to enter their books, or for bloggers wanting to be part of the new panel, so keep your eyes peeled!!

Publisher: Bryn Books

Date published: 26th July 2018

Synopsis;

The ocean is uncontrollable and dangerous. But to the sirens who swim the warm island waters, it’s a home more than worth protecting from the humans and their steam-propelled ships. Between their hypnotic voices and the strength of their powerful tails, sirens have little to fear.

That is, until the ruthless pirate captain, Kian, creates a device to cancel out their songs.

Perle was the first siren captured—but the only one Kian still keeps prisoner. Song muted and tail paralyzed, Perle’s hope for escape finally rekindles as another pirating vessel seizes Kian’s ship. This new captain seems different, with his brilliant smile and his promises that Kian will never again be Perle’s master. But he’s still a human, and a captor in his own way. The compassion he and his rag-tag human family show can’t be sincere… or can it?

Soon it becomes clear that Kian will hunt Perle relentlessly, taking down any siren in her path. As the tides turn, Perle must decide whether to run from Kian forever, or ride the forming wave into battle, hoping these newfound human companions will fight with them

Author bio:

D.N. Bryn began writing short stories in middle school and has yet to stop. They received their Bachelors degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology from UCSD, and enjoy a day job involving respiratory disease research. They bring their love for animals, science, and mythology into all their writing, and are passionate about creating inclusive worlds where a diverse array of characters can go on grand adventures without being hindered by social misconceptions based on their appearance, sexuality, or gender.

Media links;

Goodreads

Purchase links;

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Amazon CA

Don’t forget to check out all the amazing reviews on the tour!

Odriels heirs by Hayley Reese Chow- Book Review

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is a review of odriels heirs by . Thank you so much to Dave, the author and the publisher!

Odriels heirs was a BBNYA finalist! BBNYA is a yearly competition where Book Bloggers from all over the world read and score books written by indie authors. If you are an author and wish to learn more about the BBNYA competition, you can visit the official website http://www.bbnya.com or twitter @bbnya_official.

The sign-ups will soon be open for the 2022 BBNYA competition, be it for authors to enter their books, or for bloggers wanting to be part of the new panel, so keep your eyes peeled!!

Synopsis;

The brave, burning with fire, harnessed the Dragon’s Rage….

As the Dragon Heir, seventeen-year-old Kaia inherited the power of flame to protect her homeland from a godlike necromancer’s undead army. But after centuries of peace, the necromancer has faded to myth, and the Dragon Heir is feared by the people. Persecuted and cast out, Kaia struggles to embrace and control her seemingly useless gift while confined to her family’s farm.

But when the necromancer’s undead terrorize the land once again, Kaia runs away to join the battle.

With the help of her childhood rival, the handsome Shadow Heir, and a snarky, cursed cat, Kaia must figure out how to control both her fire and her confidence in time to save Okarria. If she fails, she will sacrifice her family, her new friends, and the enchanting world she has only just begun to see.

And time is running out

My thoughts;

I loved the sound of the synopsis of this book but I was hesitant to read it as i have been having a hard time finding a book to keep my attention recently. All I can say is, I’m so glad that I (eventually) picked this up!

In all honest though, I wasn’t hooked straight away but that changes after about the first couple of chapters!! I really liked Kaia as a character, she was determined and relatable. I loved following her on her adventure. The development between Kaia and klaus was really well done and I really liked their dynamic.

The world was so interesting as was the magic and I’m glad that I forgot a lot of what this book was about because I was so surprised when I came across gods, undead warriors and talking animals.

I’m so glad the second book is already out because I really want to read it soon, I need to find out what happens next. For those who enjoy ya fantasies, magic, talking cats and great characters, definitely give this one a go.

Author bio;

Hayley Reese Chow is the author of Odriel’s Heirs, the 2020 winner of the Florida Author Project. She also has short and flash fiction featured in Lite Lit One, The Drabble, Bewildering Stories, Teleport Magazine, and Rogue Blades Entertainment’s anthology, As You Wish. Until recently though, she’s mostly done a lot of things that have nothing at all to do with writing. Her hat collection includes mother, wife, engineer, USAF veteran, reservist, four-time All American fencer, 100 mile ultramarathoner, triathlete, world traveler, book inhaler, and super nerd. Hayley currently lives in Florida with two small wild boys, her long-suffering
husband, and her miniature ragehound.

Purchase links;

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Amazon CA

Media links;

Author website

Goodreads

Thank you so much for reading!

Don’t forget to check out the other blogs and reviews on the tour!