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BOOK REVIEW: Snow Blind, A Talisman Series Novella, Vol 2.5 by Brett Salter

Snow Blind

Series: A Talisman Series Novella 2.5

Author: Brett Salter
Publication Date: 27 November 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Book Description:
Mr. Jones is a brilliant wizard who can magically teleport people, cripple a Nocturn with his knowledge alone, and provide some of the best mythological creature-based outbursts you’ll ever hear, but what he can’t do is master modern technology. So, when he receives a cryptic email responding to his old, online post about finding a willing dragon to perform The Great Synergy, he’s rightfully cautious to follow up. With Rome and Julian studying abroad in England, Mr. Jones is on his own to figure this puzzle out. The mysterious respondent, IceEyes27, has sent him meeting coordinates that place him directly in the middle of frigid nowhere, Antarctica. It could be a trap. Or it could be a joke. But whatever it is, Mr. Jones better pack his long underwear and settle in for white-knuckle plane rides, encounters with dragon hunters, and potential visits to a dragon den lost to legend. Surrounded by empty miles of unyielding desolation, will our intrepid librarian save himself and open his eyes to the reality of his world? Or will he remain, like so many others, blinded by the snow?

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Snow Blind by Brett Salter is a novella set in the enchanting world of the Talisman series, centring on the intriguing wizard Mr. Jones. Renowned for his magical prowess but often flummoxed by modern technology, Mr. Jones embarks on a solo mission after receiving a cryptic email concerning "The Great Synergy". The coordinates provided lead him to the frozen expanse of Antarctica, where he encounters perilous challenges, including dragon hunters, enigmatic new allies and a hidden dragon den steeped in legend. Amidst the icy desolation, Mr. Jones must confront both external threats and his own understanding of reality while uncovering secrets about dragons and the Valanche family. The narrative beautifully intertwines humour, action and heartfelt character moments with fantastical elements.

MY THOUGHTS

As a long-time admirer of the Talisman series, I was absolutely delighted to see Mr. Jones take centre stage in Snow Blind. This novella surpassed my expectations by delivering an engaging solo adventure featuring one of my favourite characters. Mr. Jones’ blend of wit, wisdom and vulnerability made him a captivating protagonist. His struggles with modern technology not only added humour but also made him relatable amidst his otherwise formidable persona as a wizard.

The Antarctic setting was vividly depicted, creating an atmosphere of isolation and danger that heightened the stakes throughout the story. The introduction of new characters like Glyph, the charming ice dragon, and Dia Valanche from the Den of Iglacia enriched the narrative further. Quint St. George, the Shakespeare-quoting villain with a Southern drawl, was an outstanding antagonist whose presence injected tension and intrigue into the plot.

What I appreciated most was how this novella balanced intense action sequences with moments of levity and introspection. The pacing was excellent, keeping me enthralled from start to finish. Salter's ability to weave intricate lore into the story without overwhelming the reader is truly commendable. Additionally, exploring Krysta Valanche's family history provided fresh insights into familiar characters.

Overall, this is a delightful addition to the Talisman series that showcases Salter's talent for crafting immersive fantasy adventures. With its perfect mix of humour, action and heartwarming moments, this novella is a must-read for fans of dragons, magic and daring quests.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author

Blog Tour Spotlight - Jingles: A Sweet Christmas Short Story by D.F. Jones

With Christmas Eve fast approaching, Nick must convince Clara to trust in the magic they share before the magic fades forever—and with it, the spirit of Christmas itself.

 

Jingles

Author: D.F. Jones

Publication Date: November 1, 2024

Pages: 96
Genre: Women's Short Stories/Women's Fiction

 

Book Description:

Jingles by USA Today bestselling author D.F. Jones is a heartwarming tale set in the picturesque town of HollyHaven, where Christmas magic is more real than anyone could imagine. At the heart of this magic is Jingles, a beloved Christmas shop that has always been the town’s festive centerpiece. But this year, something is different—the magic is fading, and the very spirit of Christmas hangs in the balance.

 

Enter Nick, the reluctant heir to the Claus legacy, who’s been tasked with saving Christmas before it’s too late. While Nick knows the pressure is on, he isn’t expecting the key to saving the holiday to come in the form of Clara, a talented baker who runs the town’s cozy café, The Cinnamon Stick. Clara, still healing from past heartbreaks, has wrapped herself in the warmth of her bakery, keeping her heart and belief in magic safely guarded.

 

As Nick and Clara’s paths cross, sparks fly, and magical happenings begin to unfold around them. Nick sees something special in Clara—something that might just be the answer to restoring the holiday magic. But more than that, he feels a growing connection he can’t explain.

With Christmas Eve fast approaching, Nick must convince Clara to believe in the magic of the season and the love blossoming between them. Together, they must find a way to restore Christmas before it fades away forever.

Jingles is a feel-good, magical romance filled with the joy of the holiday season, perfect for anyone who loves a good dose of Christmas spirit, love, and second chances. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the greatest magic of all is simply believing.

Jingles is available at Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DJDQLY66

 

 

 

Book Excerpt

Nick ran his fingers over the delicate, gilded edges of the ancient book, its weight heavy in his lap, both literally and figuratively. The Saint Nicholas Revelation. The magic of Christmas resting on his shoulders? He had always imagined he’d carry on the family traditions, but not like this—not with the ticking of an unseen celestial clock urging him forward.

His father, Nicholas Sr., stood across from him, eyes weathered by centuries yet still bright with the same magic that pulsed through the very fabric of their family. He had seen countless Christmases come and go, carrying the burden of wonder and joy on his back like a well-worn cloak. But now, the mantle would fall to Nick, and it felt impossibly heavy. Between them hung a silent bond of understanding. The older man had walked this path once before, and while his demeanor was as steadfast as the North Star, Nick could feel his father’s concern beneath the surface.

“What if I don’t want to fulfill the prophecy?” Nick's voice wavered, betraying the doubt that had crept in under the cover of the predawn hours when uncertainty tends to dig deep.

Nicholas Sr.’s eyes softened, though his voice carried the weight of centuries. “It’s not about wanting, son. It’s about destiny. The magic isn’t just a job—it’s in our blood, the essence of who we are. There was a time when I asked myself the same question.” He paused, his gaze steady as he stepped closer. “But I won’t force you into anything. You've always had free will, just as I did. The choice is yours, but know this: without the magic, Christmas as the world knows it might just become another winter day. The joy and hope fade without someone to keep the spark alive.”

Nick swallowed, his throat dry as if the weight of his decision had sucked the moisture from the air. “But what if I fail? What if I’m not strong enough? You’ve had centuries to perfect it… I’m just—” He hesitated, unsure of how to put into words the inadequacy that gnawed at him. “I’m not you.”

A gentle and knowing smile tugged at the corner of his father’s mouth. “I never expected you to be. Each of us carries the magic in our way. I wasn’t my father either. But the magic… it grows with you, Nick. It shapes itself around your heart, your desires, your dreams. And yes, your fears, too.”

Nick’s hands gripped the book's edges, feeling the ancient, worn leather under his palms. It was alive with an energy he didn’t fully understand yet. “What if the magic’s not enough?”

Nicholas Sr. went to him, placing a hand on Nick’s shoulder. “The magic is always enough. The question is, will you allow it to be? This world, this time we live in, needs more than ever what we have. It needs belief, Nick. Not just in the magic of Christmas but in something greater. In hope, in light, in the power of love to heal what’s broken.”

The room fell silent for a moment, save for the faint sound of the wind outside, gently brushing against the frosted windowpanes. Nick nodded, feeling the gravity of his potential choice settle over him like a cloak of invisible snow. He looked down at the book in his lap, which now seemed to pulse with ancient, expectant magic as though it were waiting for him to open it to begin the next chapter in their family’s story.

“The magic may be enough,” Nick said, finally meeting his father’s eyes. “But I’m not sure I am.” Nick turned his gaze to the large sash windows, where the snow-covered peaks of Reflection Ridge sparkled like a thousand diamonds under the afternoon sun. The sight was familiar, yet today, it felt distant. For a fleeting moment, he imagined life without the enchantment of the mountain, without the reindeer or the elves bustling about the workshops, and without the secret joy of slipping through time and space to bring wonder to children everywhere. Could he really bear the weight of that loss? “What about the store? What about Jingles? Items are selling like crazy, and the sales help create funds for those in need.”

Nicholas Sr. leaned back, his eyes reflecting the deep connection between their family’s magic and the store. “Jingles isn’t just a store, Nick. It’s an extension of you, of the magic that runs through your veins. Every ornament, every stocking, every trinket sold carries a touch of that magic. It’s why people feel a little more joy when they walk out of those doors, why they believe just a bit more. The magic within you breathes life into Jingles, and in turn, Jingles spreads that magic out into the world.”

Nick’s brows furrowed. “So, you’re saying if I don’t fulfill my destiny—if I step away—the magic in Jingles fades?”

His father nodded slowly. “That’s right. The store thrives because your belief and commitment to Christmas are embedded in every aspect of it. Without that, without you, Jingles becomes just another quaint holiday shop. The enchantment fades. It’s not just about selling ornaments; it’s about keeping the spirit alive. If your magic dims, so does the store’s. It’s all interconnected.”

Nick swallowed hard, the gravity of it all sinking in. But then a thought surfaced, one that gave him hope. “If I want to keep the store after the transition, is that possible?”

His father’s lips curved into a warm smile, the twinkle of Christmas magic in his eyes. “With Christmas magic, everything is possible, Nick. You can continue, Jingles—you can continue everything, but it must come from the heart. The Magic is about more than fulfilling a duty. It’s about love, belief, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. The store can thrive as long as you carry those things with you.”

Nick breathed out slowly, a tiny flicker of reassurance settling within him. He wasn’t just stepping into his father’s shoes—he could make this legacy his own. Nick took a deep breath and exhaled, the weight of the decision pressing in on him. “How does the transition take place, Father?”

Nicholas Sr. smiled, a gleam in his eye that Nick hadn’t seen in a while. “It starts with finding your soul mate. Without Mrs. Claus, the North Pole wouldn’t work how it needs to. Your mother and I have kept this going for centuries, but we’re ready to retire, to hand over the reins, so to speak, to you and a new generation.”

Nick blinked, feeling the ground beneath him shift. The enormity of it all—a legacy more significant than anyone—hit him anew. His father’s words echoed in his mind. A soul mate? It wasn’t just about magic, the North Pole, or Christmas. It was about partnership, about love. That, more than anything, had been the key all along. 

“A soul mate? I don’t understand,” Nick muttered, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it carried the weight of his turmoil. “How does this even work? Am I supposed to conjure her with a spell? How do I find this woman—the one destined to be my partner of Christmas?”

Nicholas Sr. let out a chuckle, the sound tinged with nostalgia. “Love isn’t conjured, Nick. There’s no spell for it, no incantation. It’s not a trick or a treat. She’ll find her way to you, as your mother did to me, turning everything extraordinary in the most mundane moments.”

Nick frowned, the gears of logic turning in his mind. “But how will I even know? What if she’s just—” He waved his hand vaguely, “—some mortal passing through? What if she doesn’t believe in magic at all?”

“Ah,” his father said, his eyes twinkling with a secret knowledge. “That’s the tricky part. The magic only reveals itself to those who believe. She'll see it if she’s the one, just like your mother did. But you can’t force it. You can’t rush the magic.”

Nick wasn’t convinced. “And what if she doesn’t come at all?” He asked the question again, frustration creeping into his voice like frost over the windowpane. “What if I’m not cut out for this? For love, for magic, for any of it?”

His father tilted his head slightly, his gaze never wavering. “Then we live as mortals, and the world turns,” he said. “We adapt. We let Christmas become just another day on the calendar.”

Nick felt a surge of indignation at the thought. Adapt? That wasn’t in their blood. Adapting was for people who settled, who gave up the extraordinary for the mundane. His jaw tightened, a flicker of resolve igniting deep within him.

“I won’t let that happen,” Nick muttered under his breath, though the conviction rang between them like the unmistakable chime of a sleigh bell.

Nicholas Sr. smiled knowingly, a twinkle in his eye suggesting he’d once stood in this spot, facing the same dilemma. But he didn’t press further, allowing the weight of Nick’s choice to settle around them like the snow falling outside.

The room seemed to hum with ancient magic as if waiting for Nick’s next move. One thing was sure: time wouldn’t wait for him forever.

– Excerpted from Jingles by D.F. Jones, D.F. Jones, 2024. Reprinted with permission.

About the Author

 

Ever wonder what it’s like to step into a world where angels, demons, witches, wizards, and time travel collide? That’s the magic D.F. Jones weaves into every story she tells—worlds where the supernatural and romance meet, pulling you in until reality and fantasy blur in the best way possible.

Before she became the USA Today bestselling author, D.F. Jones had a pretty different gig. She worked as a broadcast consultant at an ABC Affiliate in Nashville. But then, in 2015, she decided to downsize her ad agency to take care of her family and focus on something constantly tugging at her heart—writing fiction.

Writing, for her, is more than just putting words on a page. It’s her escape, a place where the stress of everyday life melts away, and anything is possible. And she wants to share that world with you. The stories she crafts aren’t just filled with magic—they’re packed with action, love, and characters you’ll be thinking about long after you turn the last page.

At home, D.F. Jones shares a love story of her own. She’s married to her best friend, a man who keeps her laughing every day. Together, they raised two incredible sons, who are the true lights of her life and the spark behind the heart and soul in her books.

When she’s not writing, you’ll probably find her in her flower garden. She loves the feeling of her hands in the soil, coaxing life from the earth just like she does with her characters on the page.

So, if you’re ready to escape into a world where love and the otherworldly go hand-in-hand, D.F. Jones is the perfect guide. Her books promise adventure, a bit of whimsy, and heart-pounding moments that’ll keep you hooked. Welcome to her world, where the impossible is just the beginning.

Website ➜ http://www.dfjonesauthor.com

Twitter ➜ https://twitter.com/Author_DFJones

Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/DFJones.author

Instagram ➜ https://instagram.com/D.F.Jones_Author

Goodreads ➜ https://www.goodreads.com/GoodreadscomdfjonesAuthor

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BOOK REVIEW: And Then You Were Gone by Ivy Logan

Wildfire

Author: Ivy Logan
Publication Date: 10 December 2024
Genre: Women's Psychological Fiction

Book Description:
And Then You Were Gone

Nina, a popular fantasy author, maintains a reclusive existence. Aside from Nina’s work, her primary focus is her daughter, Sophie.

Incessant bullying at school and a public, mortifying falling out with another girl sparks a downward spiral in Sophie’s emotional state.

Nina watches helplessly as her daughter appears to be unable to move past this unfortunate event. Nina grows so consumed with Sophie’s suffering that she loses her desire to write. How does one help a teenage daughter in torment?

But then Nina has an idea—an unorthodox method to help her daughter. She is going to write a story—bringing in a special character into Sophie’s life. As the author, Nina can control the outcome of the story. Or can she?

As fiction and reality blur, Nina realizes that things have gotten out of hand. Is her story the blessing she hoped for or a curse she never expected?

Read this riveting and hauntingly poignant tale to find out more.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

And Then You Were Gone by Ivy Logan is a poignant contemporary fiction novel that explores the complex relationship between a mother, Nina, and her teenage daughter, Sophie. Nina, a reclusive fantasy author, finds herself grappling with her daughter's emotional turmoil after Sophie faces severe bullying at school. As Sophie spirals into despair following a public fallout with a friend, Nina becomes increasingly consumed by her daughter's suffering, which leads to her own creative block.

In a desperate attempt to help Sophie, Nina devises an unconventional plan that blurs the lines between fiction and reality, forcing Nina to confront the consequences of her actions as she realises that her plan may not have the healing effect she intended. The novel unfolds against the backdrop of Texas and delves into themes of motherhood, mental health and the power of storytelling.

MY THOUGHTS

I found this book to be a unique and refreshing read that effectively captures the struggles of parenting in the face of adolescent challenges. The narrative's evolution from Nina's initial excitement about her writing career to her deep concern for Sophie is both relatable and heart-wrenching. The portrayal of their relationship is particularly compelling; it highlights the disconnect that often arises during the tumultuous teenage years.

One of the standout elements for me was the character of Nick, who serves as a loyal friend to Sophie. While I felt he could have been more developed at times, his unwavering support adds depth to Sophie's journey. Additionally, I appreciated how Logan navigates the complexities of mental health without resorting to clichés, making Sophie's experiences resonate authentically.

The pacing of the novel improves significantly in the latter half, where the plot picks up momentum and introduces more tension. Initially, I found some parts, notably Part I, repetitive as both Nina's struggles with her writing and Sophie's issues between her home life and her school life seemed stagnant. However, as the story progressed, it became increasingly engaging and emotionally charged.

Overall, I enjoyed this book for its heartfelt exploration of difficult themes and its ability to evoke empathy for both mother and daughter. It’s a thought-provoking read that encourages reflection on how we cope with our loved ones' pain and the lengths we might go to help them.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Love Between Times by Beth Ford

Love Between Times

Author: Beth Ford

Publication Date: November 27th, 2024

Genre: Adult Romance / Time-Travel

Book Description:

When Ashley’s conventional 21st century life falls apart, she returns to England to write the book she shelved years ago, determined to take control of her life.

Meanwhile, in 1377 Wiltshire, Thomas fights his family’s desire that he become a priest and plots to chase his dream of knighthood instead. While Ashley and Thomas search for answers, Thomas suddenly appears in the modern day.

Unable to communicate, his first encounter with Ashley ends with the police demanding his immigration papers. All Thomas wants is to return to the world he understands, but he and Ashley are drawn together again and again. How will they find the answers Thomas needs before the authorities close in without losing each other forever?

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Men in Books Aren't Better by Lisa-Marie Potter & Amanda Nelson

Men in Books Aren’t Better

(Plus One, #1)

Author: Amanda Nelson & Lisa-Marie Potter

Published by: The Wild Rose Press

Publication Date: November 25th, 2024

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Pressured by her looming deadline and an unfinished romance manuscript, author Molly Covington applies her immersive research skills and goes all in. She hires a male companion for inspiration during three days of research in Las Vegas.

Enter sexy, confident Jared Washington—an extreme sports enthusiast and relationship skeptic who moonlights as a Plus One male companion. Molly’s contract puts him within arm’s reach of buying his own business and making his dreams come true.

The chemistry between her and Jared is surprisingly easy. Before their Vegas rendezvous comes to an end, one of them will need to lay all their cards on the table to discover if they’ll be lucky in love.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Cover Reveal - Snow Blind, A Talisman Series Novella, Vol 2.5 by Brett Salter

Exciting News!

I’m thrilled to unveil the cover of Snow Blind, the upcoming novella in the Talisman Series by the talented Brett Salter! This YA Fantasy/Adventure promises to take readers on a thrilling journey filled with magic, mystery and mythical creatures.

And now, without further ado, here is the stunning cover for Snow Blind:

Snow Blind

Series: A Talisman Series Novella 2.5

Author: Brett Salter
Publication Date: 1 December 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Book Description:

Mr. Jones is a brilliant wizard who can magically teleport people, cripple a Nocturn with his knowledge alone, and provide some of the best mythological creature-based outbursts you’ll ever hear, but what he can’t do is master modern technology.  So, when he receives a cryptic email responding to his old, online post about finding a willing dragon to perform The Great Synergy, he’s rightfully cautious to follow up.  With Rome and Julian studying abroad in England, Mr. Jones is on his own to figure this puzzle out.  The mysterious respondent, IceEyes27, has sent him meeting coordinates that place him directly in the middle of frigid nowhere, Antarctica.  It could be a trap.  Or it could be a joke.  But whatever it is, Mr. Jones better pack his long underwear and settle in for white-knuckle plane rides, encounters with dragon hunters, and potential visits to a dragon den lost to legend.  Surrounded by empty miles of unyielding desolation, will our intrepid librarian save himself and open his eyes to the reality of his world?  Or will he remain, like so many others, blinded by the snow?

Connect with Brett Salter

Amazon Page: Brett Salter on Amazon

Goodreads Page: Brett Salter on Goodreads

What Do You Think?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the cover! Are you as excited as I am for Mr. Jones’s icy adventure? Let me know in the comments below!

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Step One by Grier Cooper

Step One

(Indigo Ballet Series)

Author: Grier Cooper

Publication Date: November 15th, 2024

Genre: YA Contemporary

Book Description:

When Indigo lands a role in Ballet Russia’s touring production of The Nutcracker, it’s a dream come true…. Or is it? Her arch nemesis is also part of the production. So is dashing Russian viral video superstar Dimitri Volkov, who’s playing some kind of game she doesn’t quite understand.

As Indigo dances alongside the rising stars of Ballet Russia she struggles to rise above constant criticism from Ballet Russia’s Director, Yuri Kanofsky. But first she’ll have to dig deep and silence the doubts running through her mind if she wants to rise to their level and drive her ballet career forward.

When unexpected events turn Indigo’s world upside down overnight she’s forced to decide how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get there.

And one innocent mistake just might cost her everything.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Things I Wish I Said by Gracie Graham

Things I Wish I Said

Author: Gracie Graham

Publication Date: November 7th, 2024

Genre: YA Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Lung cancer patient Ryleigh Sinclair wants a boyfriend for the summer.

And my mother wants me to be the one to make her wish come true.

Me. The eternal pessimist. The guy who no longer believes in happy endings after my dad died of pancreatic cancer and my girlfriend dumped me in the same month.

But after weeks of spending time with Ryleigh, she somehow does the impossible. She fills the gaping hole of my father’s absence until I’m the one hoping for a miracle.

I’ve learned my lesson about wishes.

Happily ever afters are a lie.

Yet I’m the one wishing like hell for another outcome for Ryleigh.

I lost my father to cancer; I can’t lose her too.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK