BOOK REVIEW: A Dragon's Dyne (The Talisman Series Vol 6) by Brett Salter

A Dragon's Dyne

Series: The Talisman, Book 6

Author: Brett Salter

Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Publication Date: 22 July 2023

Book Description:

Things have gone from weird to blatantly absurd in Rome and Julian’s quest to preserve the boundary between the Earth realm and The Void. With Darkbrand numbers growing at a terrifying rate, the escape of Beliarahm, the fiercest Nocturn yet, and the struggle to make ANY headway with the Elementals and all their tomfoolery, The Alliance has hit a veritable wall. Even with the promise of the light Talisman to oppose the forces of darkness, there’s just no telling how or where to find it. All the other Talismans are collected, but that doesn’t necessarily give our heroes any comfort, because to this point, these magical items seem to have served more as crosshairs than protection. Maybe they need something more than the Talismans. But what could that be?

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SUMMARY

In A Dragon's Dyne (The Talisman Series, Vol. 6) by Brett Salter, Rome Lockheed, Julian, and their allies face escalating challenges in their quest to protect the boundary between the Earth realm and The Void. The Alliance battles the growing Darkbrand forces while searching for the elusive light Talisman crucial to defeating The Tyrant King. Amidst alliances, familial revelations, and daunting confrontations, the characters must confront their lineage and overcome personal sacrifices to safeguard their world from impending doom.

MY THOUGHTS

Salter masterfully deepens the relationships among the characters, showcasing significant growth in their bonds. The sibling banter between Julian and Camela brings a delightful dynamic to the narrative, underscoring their evolving relationship. Moreover, the development of Rome and Krysta's bond adds emotional depth to the story, anchoring it amidst the chaos of their quest. The portrayal of familial connections and revelations injects intriguing layers into the characters' histories, offering compelling explanations for unfolding events.

Additionally, the narrative successfully navigates themes of sacrifice, teamwork, and resilience. The characters face formidable challenges, and their collective strength as a team shines through amidst trials and heart-wrenching losses. Salter expertly weaves these elements into the plot, creating a gripping and emotionally resonant storyline.

While immersed in the captivating narrative of A Dragon's Dyne, I found myself longing for heightened suspense in certain pivotal moments. Anticipated revelations and impactful scenes, while emotionally fulfilling, lacked the element of surprise I yearned for in a story of this magnitude. However, it's important to note that even in their predictability, these scenes retained a profound emotional resonance. The author skillfully navigated these anticipated plot points, infusing them with a depth of emotion that lent a satisfying, albeit expected, closure to certain character arcs and narrative threads. While the narrative could have benefitted from a touch more unpredictability to enhance the thrill, the emotionally charged resolutions ensured a deeply gratifying experience for readers invested in the characters' journeys.

A Dragon's Dyne stands as a thrilling instalment in The Talisman Series. Brett Salter's adept storytelling, coupled with the rich development of character dynamics and a plot filled with trials and revelations, creates a captivating narrative. While this chapter could serve as a fitting conclusion, the tantalising hints in the ending suggest that more adventures may await these characters. Salter masterfully balances resolution with the promise of future escapades, leaving readers both satisfied and eager for what could be the next chapter in this mesmerising saga.

VERDICT:

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author

Blog Tour Review - A Friend for Christmas by Mike Martin

A Christmas book about overcoming your fears and finding friends at Christmas. 

A Friend for Christmas

Author: Mike Martin

Publication Date: October 20, 2023

Pages: 36

Genre: Children's

Book Description:

Good things come to those who face their fears. 

Robbie Rabbit lived in a warren in a big city with his wife Rowena Rabbit and their nine kits. He called it their rabbit apartment. Robbie and his family were hunkering down for winter when an unexpected visitor makes an appearance. 

A Friend for Christmas is the heartwarming tale of a very brave rabbit who faces his fears and makes a new friend at the magical time of the year.  He learns that friends can come in all shapes and sizes and Robbie and his family discover the joy of Christmas.

This beautifully illustrated book is suitable for children of all ages. Especially those who still believe in the magic of Christmas.

“This lovely fable tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a family of rabbits and a gray cat named Whisper. In these war-torn times, it’s an important reminder of our innate ability to choose live over fear.” – Amazon

Buy Links:

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Celebrate the Magic of the Season with Our Christmas Sale - Arcadia Saga by Al Stone (YA Fantasy)

Step into a world of wonder and adventure this holiday season with our exclusive Christmas Sale featuring the complete YA Fantasy book trilogy Arcadia! Immerse yourself in a captivating saga filled with mystical realms, courageous heroes and epic quests.

📖 Discover the Complete Trilogy: Experience the entire saga from start to finish. Join our heroes on a spellbinding adventure where magic intertwines with destiny and friendships are forged in the fires of trials.

🌌 Limited-Time Specials: Uncover extraordinary deals on the entire trilogy set. Dive into a world where the impossible becomes reality and where every turn of the page reveals a new enchantment.

🎁 Give the Gift of Epic Fantasy: Spread holiday cheer by sharing this unforgettable journey with fellow fantasy enthusiasts. Gift the trilogy to ignite the imagination and ignite the spirit of adventure.

🚀 Begin Your Adventure Today: Start your journey into this mesmersing trilogy and lose yourself in a world brimming with magic, courage, and the power of friendship.

🔔 Hurry, the Magic Awaits! The sale ends soon. Don't miss the chance to embark on this fantastical odyssey!

Join us in celebrating the holidays with a trilogy that will transport you to realms beyond imagination. Happy reading and Merry Christmas! 🎅📚✨

Buy Links:
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Whiskers on Kittens by R.J. Blain

Whiskers on Kittens

(A Magical Romantic Comedy (with a body count), #22)

Author: R.J. Blain

Publication Date: December 19th 2023

Genre: Adult Comedy / Urban Fantasy

Book Description:

The next time a friend dared her to steal something, Kelsie would say no. Should the friend also be a succubus, not only would she say no, she would run for the nearest border faster than a bat fleeing the dark depths of hell.

Under normal circumstances, she didn’t even mind serving community service. It added spice to an otherwise boring day and gave her something productive to do.

Hoping to contain her prankster ways, the judge teams her up with a grouchy wolf of a cop with an attitude problem. According to her virus, Kelsie needs to get the good officer out of his pants. According to her common sense, the last thing she needs or wants is a goody-goody hampering her style and getting in her way.

When they’re assigned to help rescue six kidnapped kittens, Kelsie knows one thing for certain: to create a Christmas miracle, she’ll do a lot more than bend the law—she’ll break it over her knee and unleash hell on Earth while she’s at it.

Whiskers on Kittens can be read as a standalone.

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BOOK REVIEW: Navigating Childhood Anxiety by Erin Taylor

Navigating Childhood Anxiety

Subtitle: A Parent's Guide to Understanding and Support

Author: Erin Taylor

Genre: Self-Help / Parenting Guide

Publication Date: 21 October 2023

Book Description:

Is your child experiencing the weight of anxiety at an early age? As parents, we want nothing more than to see our children grow and flourish, but when anxiety takes hold, it can be a heart-wrenching challenge for the entire family.

In "Navigating Childhood Anxiety: A Parent's Guide to Understanding and Support," we delve deep into the world of early childhood anxiety, offering insights and guidance to help you support your little one through these turbulent emotions. With a focus on compassion and understanding, this book is a beacon of hope for parents navigating the complex landscape of their child's mental well-being.

Through pages filled with stories, expert advice, and practical strategies, you'll discover how to be your child's greatest ally. We explore the signs of anxiety in kids and provide you with the tools to help them overcome their fears and worries. By understanding the unique needs of your child, you can empower them to face life's challenges with courage and resilience.

This isn't just a book; it's a lifeline for parents. With "Navigating Childhood Anxiety: A Parent's Guide to Understanding and Support," you'll find a compassionate guide to building a bridge of trust with your child, helping them embrace a world of possibilities beyond their fears.

In these pages, you'll uncover the power of love, empathy, and understanding as you embark on a journey to create a brighter, anxiety-free future for your child. Together, we can provide the support they need to thrive and be the happy, confident children they were meant to be.

This book is not just about understanding anxiety; it's about understanding your child's heart..

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

MY REVIEW

In "Navigating Childhood Anxiety," parents are guided through the intricate landscape of childhood anxiety, offering insights and strategies to support their little ones through turbulent emotions. With a focus on compassion and understanding, this book becomes a beacon of hope in the complex world of a child's mental well-being.

What I Liked

The book excels in providing comprehensive insights into childhood anxiety. It effectively explores the possible origins and manifestations of anxiety in children, shedding light on the challenges they face. The inclusion of practical strategies and expert advice empowers parents to become their child's greatest ally.

I particularly appreciated the empathetic approach maintained throughout the book. It fosters a sense of understanding and support, ensuring parents feel equipped to navigate their child's anxiety rather than overwhelmed by it. The emphasis on individualised approaches, encouraging parents to understand their child's unique needs, is commendable. It helps in fostering resilience and enables tailored support for each child.

What I Didn't Like

While the content was enriching, certain aspects needed improvement. The choice of font colours impacted readability. The darkness of the font made it challenging on the eyes, detracting from an otherwise engaging reading experience.

Additionally, the book could have benefited from a broader range of practical scenarios. Referring specifically to Chapter 2, while the scenario featuring 10-year-old Emily was insightful, diversifying scenarios to include children of varying ages (e.g., 5, 10, and 16 years old) would have provided a more comprehensive understanding of different approaches in discovering what triggers a child’s anxiety, as anxiety manifests differently at different ages, and additional scenarios would have showcased diverse approaches to discovering anxiety triggers.

Lastly, there were instances where sections felt repetitive, echoing information presented earlier in the book. Streamlining these sections could have enhanced the overall flow and prevented redundancy in content.

Despite some readability issues and the need for broader practical scenarios, 'Navigating Childhood Anxiety' remains a compassionate and empowering guide, equipping parents with valuable tools to support their child through anxious moments, making it a recommended resource in navigating a child's mental well-being.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Trust No One by Glenn Dyer

Trust No One

(Conor Thorn Series, #4)

Author: Glenn Dyer

Publication Date: December 11th, 2023

Genre: Adult Historical Thriller

Book Description:

Loyalists meant to rid their country of a double-dealing collaborator. Instead, they created a threat that could destroy Allied unity.

Algiers. Winter 1942. Conor Thorn is devastated. He’s been fired from the OSS. His wife, Emily, has been fired from MI6. They allowed their morals to bend certain truths concerning the outcome of their last mission. Forever dedicated to defeating Axis powers, these skilled operatives jump at the chance to secretly help General Eisenhower deal with a political time bomb threatening Allied harmony and to redeem their honorable standing. To recover a rumored archive holding the truth about an assassination plot, they must travel deep into perilous Axis territory.

In the crosshairs of those determined to keep the information out of Allied hands, Conor and Emily fall victim to a violent assault. Though the resulting injuries leave him severely concussed and confused, Conor refuses to stand down while his beloved ventures deeper into danger.

Can Conor and Emily piece together a political puzzle in time to keep Allied unity from fracturing?

Trust No One is the high intensity, gritty fourth book in the Conor Thorn WWII espionage series inspired by true events. If you like heart-pounding action and white-knuckled tension, then you’ll love Glenn Dyer’s thrill ride through history.

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Vanished by Anna J. Stewart

Vanished

(Circle of the Red Lily, #2)

Author: Anna J. Stewart

Publication Date: November 21st, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance / Suspense

Book Description:

She’ll risk everything to expose the truth.

Since her twin sister Sylvie’s disappearance seven years ago, single mother Mabel Reynolds has turned grief into action and become a strong voice for victims of violence and abuse.

When new revelations shed light on what may have happened not only to Sylvie, but dozens of other women, Mabel’s hope for answers is reignited. But the new oh-so-charming DA overseeing the investigation seems more interested in a quick rather than an accurate resolution.

With little faith in the system, Mabel isn’t about to stay quiet, not when she’s finally close to the truth. She’s willing to go up against anyone—even a smug, irritating, attractive DA to get the answers she and other families deserve.

Open and shut.

That’s what Assistant DA Paul Flynn has been told about his new assignment supervising a house of horrors case. With a high-profile conviction at stake, Paul can’t afford to make a wrong move if his professional goals are to be achieved.

But Mabel Reynolds has his attention. All of it. Attraction aside, the woman knows far more than what’s in the official files which makes her something even more intriguing. But using Mabel as an asset means exposing her and her young daughter to even more danger. Danger that is closing in on them from every side. As even darker forces appear, and their lives are threatened, Paul is faced with risking not only his entire career, but also the one thing he never anticipated losing: his heart.

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - The Withering Trials of Gwendolyn Gray by B.A. Williamson

The Withering Trials of Gwendolyn Gray

(The Chronicles of Gwendolyn Gray, #3)

Author: B.A. Williamson

Publication Date: November 18th, 2023

Genre: YA Fantasy / Science Fiction

Book Description:

She Saved the City, But Lost Her Life

What would you do if your parents disappeared? How would you live, barely scraping by, lying to everyone in your life?

Two years ago, Gwendolyn Gray saved the City. But The Blackstar stole her parents and took them to another world. She lost her powers, her portals, and even her hair. So while the rest of the City is reveling in its newfound freedom, Gwendolyn has spent two years dodging the clutches of the Childkeeper and the Home for Unclaimed Children. Balancing work and school and impersonating her own parents hasn’t been great for her bipolar disorder, either.

So when a school bully and a vengeful faerie bring her carefully constructed lies crashing down around her, Gwendolyn seizes the chance to travel through the realms of story again, trying to find the world where her stolen parents are hidden. But battling bills is nothing compared to the gothic vampires and eldritch horrors she’ll meet along the way. And on a world of smoke and lightning and metal, a teenage rebel holds the key to saving her parents and getting back the life she lost.

Because growing up isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Flame & Shadow by AK Nevermore

Flame & Shadow

(The Dae Diaries, #1)

Author: AK Nevermore

Published by: The Wild Rose Press

Publication Date: November 13th, 2023

Genre: Adult Romance / Urban Fantasy

Book Description:

Half-daemon Envy Starr is destined to die on Midsummer’s Eve, still a virgin, on some crappy cult’s live-stream feed. With thirty days left to live, the chance to escape her fate and get some action compels her into her absentee father’s world of beautifully cultured cruelty.

Once there, she’s the object of a deadly game, slated to alter the Fae realm’s power structure. Worse, the rules keep changing, and everyone has an ulterior motive, including her dae-licious guide, Brennan. Under a geas he’s desperate to break, she can’t trust him, or herself.

Stupid Stockholm syndrome.

But unless she can come to terms with what lies in her heart, her unlikely survival will be a fate worse than death. For her, and the rest of Fae.

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - The Billionaire's Devotion by Amélie S. Duncan

The Billionaire’s Devotion

(The Kept Trilogy, #3)

Author: Amélie S. Duncan

Publication Date: November 5th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

The handsome billionaire Paul Crane can’t seem to stay away from me, nor can he stay with me.

Here I am, finally starting my amazing fashion design internship at a luxury, fashion house in Paris, my lifelong dream coming true… yet I’m still at a loss.

Apparently, escaping the USA press and their never-ending interest in the hot older billionaire and the certain young design student — hello, it’s me! — isn’t enough to give me some relief.

And it’s not just that the internship is complicated or the competition is insane. I’ve caught the attention of top designer Hayden, who sees me as a muse.

But my heart wants Paul, even though he’s still not opened his heart to me. He hasn’t returned, but he’s never really far away.

It’s almost as if he’s decided to keep rescuing me from everything, even from himself.

I don’t want to be rescued.

I don’t want a fairy tale where Prince Charming keeps saving the damsel in distress.

I want it to be real.

But can we make it real — does our love and everything it entails truly have a chance, or will this be the moment when the dream finally ends?

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - How it All Began by Fiona West

How it All Began

Author: Fiona West

Publication Date: October 24th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Trust is like car keys: easy to lose and hard to get anywhere without it…

Evan only intended to strike up a casual conversation with the stunning blonde with Goldie Hawn looks–now he finds himself trying to cross paths with her on campus every chance he gets. But his water polo teammate appears to have damaged his chances with Farrah before he could even ask her out.

Farrah’s been out with players from the water polo team before–and it’s always ended in tears. The handsome medical student who wants to help her get revenge says he’s not like them…but there’s only one way to know for sure.

Will a trip to his hometown seal the deal or prove this player’s all washed up?

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Challenging the Chef by Shanna Hatfield

Challenging the Chef

Author: Shanna Hatfield

Publication Date: October 19th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance / Western

Book Description:

When an interloper arrives in his kitchen, will romance start to simmer?

Chef Owen Thorpe left behind his celebrity status when he moved to Summer Creek. The quaint town and country atmosphere allow him to seek solace in his recipes. His peace and quiet is threatened when he’s coerced into being part of a big auction package that includes the winner spending a week cooking with him in his restaurant. The last thing he wants is some chef wannabe in his way. However, the real danger he faces is losing his heart when the winner turns out to be a beautiful woman who knows her way around a kitchen.

Burdened by the weight of her demanding career as a school psychologist, Tawni Young turns to cooking and gardening to escape from the never-ending stress of her work. When her aunt gifts her an auction package that includes cooking lessons in the small town of Summer Creek, Tawni realizes the chef she’ll be working with is none other than a celebrity she had a huge crush on during her college years. From the moment the two of them meet, an undeniable attraction sizzles while wits collide.

As they embark on a tantalizing journey of culinary delights, will Tawni and Owen discover the most important ingredient is love?

In this heartwarming and deliciously wholesome tale, Challenging the Chef takes readers on a savory adventure filled with sweet romance.

Read the entire Summer Creek Series!

Catching the Cowboy

Rescuing the Rancher

Protecting the Princess

Distracting the Deputy

Guiding the Grouch

Challenging the Chef

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Bite of Pain Anthology

Bite of Pain Anthology

Publication Date: October 16th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Nothing brings more pleasure than the perfect Bite of Pain.

Satisfy your desire for a bit of sting with a dozen BRAND NEW smoking hot power exchange stories from the dark romance authors you love.

Featuring stories from:

Natasha Knight & A. Zaverelli

Alta Hensley & Renee Rose

Julia Sykes

Annabel Joseph

Measha Stone

Livia Grant

Jane Henry

Jenna Jacob

Stasia Black

Becca Jameson

Sue Lyndon

Cole Denton

Publisher’s Note: The Bite of Pain Anthology contains brand new material never published before. It is the perfect chance to revisit series you already love and also find new authors you will enjoy reading.

Buy Links:

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Just a Fika by Beck Erixson

Just a Fika: Coffee, Connection, and a Matchmaking Ghost Grandmother

Author: Beck Erixson

Publication Date: October 3rd, 2023

Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance / Women’s Fiction

Book Description:

Family.

They’re always meddling in your love life

Even after they’re dead.

Brooklynite-and genealogist-Ingrid Ekstrom accepts a surprise request from her typically estranged family: to become the live-in caretaker of their shared historic house in the sleepy Jersey Shore town of Aegir Haven. A fun-loving cousin is quick to introduce Ingrid to the local handyman and bluegrass musician. As he fixes up the place, Ingrid digs into the house’s past and learns about the family she barely knows.

And then Mormor-her long-dead grandmother-shows up, acting as though not being in the spirit realm is perfectly normal.

Ingrid’s always yearned for stronger family connections, and it’s nice having Mormor around. Mormor tries to set her up with a young real estate attorney who’s closer to her more thunderous, god-like personal standards than the musician with keen senses Ingrid is falling for. As lore and legends mingle with real life, she’s torn. Mormor’s fantastical family sagas can’t actually be true, right?

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - A Match Made in Ireland by E.D. Hackett

A Match Made in Ireland

Author: E.D. Hackett

Publication Date: September 23rd, 2023

Genre: Adult Comedy / Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

A semester abroad was exactly what she needed, but falling in love with her roommate was not part of the lesson plan.

When Rory, a driven American seeking a much-needed break from her hectic life, lands in Ireland for a semester abroad, she never imagines sharing her space with Jaime, the charming yet irksome redhead from her flight. A twist of fate entwines their paths, forcing them to live under one roof for four months.

Despite his laid-back demeanor clashing with her meticulous nature, Rory finds herself irresistibly drawn to Jaime’s infectious Irish charm and tight-knit family bonds. As they traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland, Rory relies on Jaime’s wisdom to navigate the challenges of their travels. It doesn’t take long for her to fall for the enchanting Irish experience he offers, which extends far beyond the usual tourist trails.

But as the end of the semester draws near, Rory is faced with a heart-wrenching decision. Will she leave a piece of her heart in Ireland, or was Jaime merely a dream meant to be left behind?

Immerse yourself in E.D. Hackett’s A Match Made in Ireland for a delightful romantic comedy that delves into the magic of Ireland, the beauty of unforeseen bonds, and the transformative power of self-discovery. Buckle up for a journey filled with laughter, tears, and love that you won’t want to miss!

Buy Links:

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - I've Watched You Die by Karina Banks

I’ve Watched You Die

Author: Karina Banks

Publication Date: September 22nd, 2023

Genre: NA Fantasy

Book Description:

A young woman, cursed. A rebellious prince in hiding. A forbidden love that will threaten two worlds…

There are two main things I’ve learned since my life turned upside down. The first is, if you speak of someone’s death before it happens, you’ll be blamed for murder. The second? If the hottest guy you’ve ever seen kisses you, and thanks you for saving his life, don’t argue.

I watched him die, over and over. So many times. The vision is always the same and there is never one damn thing I can do to save him. I don’t know why I can’t dream about normal things, like going to school naked, or spiders. I hate spiders. No, I’m lucky enough to see strangers at the moments of their deaths.

The only thing keeping me sane is knowing the visions aren’t real.

Until the accident. The blood. He dies in my arms.

At least, I thought he did. But now he’s here, telling me I saved his life. Telling me unbelievable stories about monsters and gods and destiny. Promising to protect me.

If none of this is real, why am I afraid of the creatures hunting me? And if I saved his life, why are the nightmares back, stronger than ever? What is this thing lurking inside me, eager to strike?

I don’t know, but I’m freaking out.

I’m afraid what I think is real, isn’t. And what I know is not, just might be.

Buy Links:

Amazon US