Book Blitz & Giveaway - Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard by Amber Laura

Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard

Author: Amber Laura

Publication Date: November 16th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Miranda Monroe’s world just imploded. Not only did she just get dumped by her long-time boyfriend, but she got dumped in the most humiliatingly painful way imaginable. Very suddenly single, homeless, and heartbroken, she runs to the only person she knows will always be there for her.

Sam Church. Her best friend (and the man she’d once secretly been madly in love with).

Which is how she finds herself, emotionally spent and financially crippled, somehow agreeing to his outrageous offer: that she move into his guest bedroom. Temporarily, of course. Just until she gets back on her feet.

There’s only one problem. In the midst of mending her shattered heart, in the process of trying to find herself again (just who is Miranda Monroe?), her thoughts keep getting distracted, wandering in the most confusing and forbidden of ways…just down the hall from her.

Which is ludicrous. The most commitment-phobic person she’s ever met, Sam is off-limits to Miranda for all kinds of reasons. But mostly, because he’s her best friend—and she loves him too much to lose him. So why, suddenly, can’t she seem to stop fantasizing about him? Why can’t she stop hoping for something more?

Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard is a best-friends-to-lovers romantic comedy underscored with notes of healing fiction and the echoing sentiments of an adult coming-of-age novel.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

BOOK REVIEW: Duke was a Hound from the Pound by Wanda Reynaud

Duke was a Hound from the Pound
Author: Wanda Reynaud
Publication Date: 19 November 2023
Pages: 52
Genre: Children's Picture Book

Book Description:
Join me on my adventure with Duke. He will make you giggle and laugh, and bring absolute joy to your child's day.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

This is a delightfully entertaining picture book that follows the adventures of Duke, a hound with a heart as big as his talents. The storytelling is engaging, and vivid illustrations bring Duke's character to life, making every page a joy to explore. While the book doesn't focus on a specific message, which is a preference of mine, it offers pure entertainment and encourages readers to embrace the joy of trying new things. Duke is a heartwarming and entertaining read for both children and adults.

MY THOUGHTS

I thoroughly enjoyed Duke. The book is a testament to the author's skill in creating a captivating story filled with charm and humour. Duke's endearing personality and zest for life had me smiling throughout. The illustrations not only add visual appeal but also capture the essence of Duke's character and his many talents. Despite the absence of a specific message, the sheer fun and entertainment value make Duke a winner in my book. I wholeheartedly recommend it for the entire family.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author

Release Day Spotlight & Author Interview - The Quelling: A Trilogy by C.L. Lauder

The Quelling: A Trilogy

Series: Book 1

Author: C.L. Lauder

Genre: Speculative / Fantasy

ISBN: 9781632997654

Publication Date: 16 January 2024

Book Description:

Befriend your enemy, save your friend...

When Kyjta accidentally brands herself with an alien fluid while plotting revenge, she knows her fate is sealed. As one of the Stained, her skin glistens star-bright, and the creatures sent by the Rhemans to scavenge for bodies will have no trouble finding her. One night, while sheltering during a raid, Kyjta forms an unexpected pact with a Rheman rebel to protect a young girl, Calipsie, who’s fallen into her care. Days later, when Calipsie is taken, Kyjta abandons precaution to go after her. Facing impossible odds and allied by a Rheman she’s not sure she can trust, Kyjta must not only rescue Calipsie, but also face the Rheman overlord who’s taken a disturbing interest in her.

 

Perfect for fans of Divergent and The Hunger Games! The Quelling is a captivating, dystopian fantasy about loss and love, oppression and rebellion, and delves into the power of the individual against a dominant evil.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Blog Tour Interview - Sunny's Secrets by Robin Jay

Devastated by the loss of her husband and keenly aware of the fragile nature of life, Sunny, a nurse, is approached by a mysterious Indian doctor with a secretive spiritual method for transferring Life Force Energy between two people. She accepts his intriguing offer to join his elite and clandestine team.

Sunny's Secrets

Author: Robin Jay

Publication Date: July 6, 2023

Pages: 378

Genre: Psychological Suspense/Medical

Book Description:

A suicide bomber changed Sunny’s life forever. A nurse from a military family, she finds herself devastated and alone. At her husband’s funeral, she’s approached by a mysterious Indian doctor, Rohan Ray, who shows her how to switch Life Force Energy between two people – those who are about to end their lives and patients who would give anything to live another day. Playing with fate is not for the faint of heart. Will the crushing responsibility be too much for Sunny to bear?

Buy Link:

Amazon

My Top 10 Most Anticipated Books and Movies of 2024

Happy New Year To You All!

May this year bring you much joy and good health. To kick off this year, check out my most anticipated books and movies for 2024.

WHICH BOOKS AND MOVIES ARE ON YOUR WISH LIST THIS YEAR?

 

My Top 10 Most Anticipated Books
Of 2024 Are:

 

 
 

  

  

My Top 10 Most Anticipated Movies

Of 2024 Are:

   

  

  

Christmas & New Year Giveaway - Win a $10 Amazon Gift Card

Christmas & New Year Giveaway

December 25th to January 25th

Here's wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Open to entrants 13+ worldwide

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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?

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

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:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble

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:
Amazon US | UK

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.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

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