Book Blitz & Giveaway - Pity Parade by Whitney Dineen

Pity Parade

(Pity Series, #4)

Author: Whitney Dineen

Publication Date: May 23rd, 2024

Genre: Adult Comedy / Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Trina Rockwell here. You know, your favorite TV host from Midwestern Matchmaker?I have a I am without a doubt, the unluckiest dater in the history of the entire world. I’m not even embellishing. I’ve inadvertently dated a mobster, a dead-beat dad, and a guy who puts salt on watermelon. What’s next, pineapple on pizza?As my past relationships reads like the who’s who of court jesters, it’s no wonder I’ve refused my producers desire to spotlight me as one of the singles on a new show they’re putting together.

The problem is that Midwestern Matchmaker just got canceled and unless I agree to their terms, I’m out of a job.

In order to keep doing what I love doing—matching midwestern singles, I either need to suck it up and parade my dating life on national television or I need to get married—STAT.

Guess which one I’m putting my money on?

Buy Links:

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BOOK REVIEW: The Taste of Storm and Brine (The Talisman Series Vol 5.5) by Brett Salter

The Taste of Storm and Brine

Series: The Talisman, Book 5.5

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

Book Description:
The inevitable, all-out war for Earth is inching ever closer, and luckily, we have The Alliance to defend us from the Darkbrand army. But what about other parts of the world? The Alliance, as talented as they are, can’t be everywhere all at once. And the Darkbrands don’t just pop up in the most convenient places. They are indiscriminate and random, as well as dangerous and smelly. So, expanding The Alliance’s circle of allies seems like a good idea, right? Well, one certain water dragon seems to think so, anyway. Starboard, The Sentry of the South, is a loyal and stout defender of The Den of Oceania. He’s even met most of The Alliance members face to face. But after a brush with death, can he convince his fellow water dragons to join The Alliance’s claws… Um, I mean cause? Will The Den of Oceania ever be able to trust the humans completely? Or arrrrrr their hopes for survival destined to be swept out to sea by the coming storm?

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

The Taste of Storm and Brine, a novella in the Talisman Series, serves as a bridge between the events of books 5 and 6. The story follows Starboard, The Sentry of the South, a water dragon who is determined to expand The Alliance’s circle of allies to better prepare for the impending war against the Darkbrand army. The Darkbrands are a pervasive and destructive force, threatening not just the land but also the oceanic territories. Starboard, having met most of The Alliance members, embarks on a mission to persuade his fellow water dragons to join forces with humans, despite their longstanding mistrust. The narrative explores Starboard’s character in depth and introduces new characters such as Tampa and Driftwood, who bring unique personalities and dynamics to the story. The novella captures the tension and urgency of preparing for an all-out war while highlighting the challenging alliance-building efforts between humans and dragons.

MY THOUGHTS

This book was a brisk and engaging read. It was refreshing to see a focus on the dragons, particularly Starboard, a character who has been part of the main series but hasn’t been deeply explored until now. This novella dives into his backstory and motivations, making him a more relatable and compelling character. The shift in focus from humans to dragons was unexpected but welcome, providing a new perspective on the broader conflict and how it is affecting the world at large. The nonstop action kept the pace lively, ensuring there were no dull moments, which is particularly beneficial in a shorter narrative. Starboard’s humorous and engaging nature added a delightful layer to the story, making his journey all the more enjoyable to follow.

I appreciated the inclusion of Tampa and Driftwood, who stood out as distinct and memorable characters. Their interactions and the challenges they face highlighted the diversity and complexity of the dragon community, which is a nice contrast to the human-centric view in the main series. While I did miss some of the familiar characters from the main series, the novella compensated by deepening the lore and providing insights into the dragon-human dynamics. The portrayal of the inherent mistrust between the two species was particularly well-done, reminding readers of the deep-seated conflicts that The Alliance must overcome. This aspect is often glossed over in the main series, where cooperation against a common enemy tends to overshadow underlying tensions.

Overall, this book is a worthy addition to the Talisman Series. It enriches the narrative by exploring new facets of the story and setting the stage for future developments. Despite missing some beloved characters, the novella’s focus on the dragons and their perspective adds a fresh and exciting dimension to the series.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Another Side of the Heart by C.H. Lazarovich

Another Side of the Heart

Author: C.H. Lazarovich

Publication Date: September 29th, 2023

Genre: Adult Contemporary

Book Description:

One summer. One dog. One chance encounter.

When Mary Devere encounters a young woman the same age as her dead daughter, Mary connects with her, only to discover that the young woman’s father is Antonio, Mary’s first love. Mary finds herself questioning the sacrifices she made to live the life she thought she should, and the difficult choice she made as a teenager that changed her life’s course.

Easy to read. Easy to love.

In a touching, emotional and moving account of a woman in midlife, Mary finds herself navigating her grief surrounding the loss of her only child, questioning her sacrifices to live a life she thought she should, and confronting the memories of the choice she made as a teenager that changed her life’s course, all while placing her back in the arms of Antonio.

From Readers’ Favorite 5-Star author C. H. Lazarovich comes the moving story of a woman’s awakening.

Buy Links:

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - If You Loved Me by Brianna Remus

If You Loved Me

Author: Brianna Remus

Publication Date: April 26th, 2024

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

My parents would lose their minds if they found out their precious daughter lost her virginity to the town’s notorious bad boy and ex-convict.

Ranger Adams might have been a dangerous pariah after he was released from prison, but he was the only man I wanted. And after I convinced him to take me on a date, I got exactly what my body…and heart desired.

I spent my entire life trying to get away from my parents’ overbearing grasp. They’ve tried to control every part of my life, even down to the man I was supposed to marry. That was the price of being born into one of the South’s richest families.

The second I had a chance to get away, I did. Ten years of pissing them off and making my dreams come true was worth the sacrifice. No fun. No relationships. And no sex.

My life had been all work until Ranger came back into town. Everyone whispered about what he’d done to land in prison. But I didn’t care.

He was rough around the edges, wild, and free.

And I wanted every bit of what he was willing to give me.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Darkness Falls by A.E. Faulkner

Darkness Falls

(Nature’s Fury, #1)

Author: A.E. Faulkner

Publication Date: 31 March 2019

Genre: YA Dystopian

Book Description:

Our family trip to the beach ended before it even began. Mother Nature made sure of that.

Our parents…gone in an instant. It’s just me and my sister. 100 miles from home. No car. No phones. No money. Down to our last crumbs of food.

But just when we figure out what to do, she vanishes.

Mother Nature reached her breaking point and everyone’s paying the price. I have a feeling she isn’t done just yet.

But guess what? Neither am I.

Can Quinn survive the dark side of humanity and outrun nature’s fury? Click Buy Now to find out.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

BOOK REVIEW: Zombie Nerd and the Half-Term Harrowing by Jack Callaghan

Zombie Nerd and the Half-Term Harrowing

Author: Jack Callaghan

Publication Date: 6 October 2023
Genre: YA Dystopian / Post-Apocalyptic Fiction

Book Description:
The 'Zombie Apocalypse' is over and has been for some time.

As the country tries to recover from the chaos, Zombies and Survivors live in as close to harmony as they're able, but old divisions continue to bubble beneath the surface.

Ronnie Thanatos isn't a very good Zombie. He suffers from the usual trappings that come with being a member of the undead, but he isn't tough, he isn't cool, and he certainly isn't scary.

Zombies are supposed to be scary, aren't they?

When he learns of the existence of a mysterious man of science, who is believed to have started the Zombie outbreak, Ronnie sets off on a journey towards the country's former capital, the dreadful and benighted 'Necropolis', in search of answers.

Joined by his faithful friends Nate and Bridget, Ronnie travels across the desolate landscape, meeting strange and interesting people, putting his courage to the test, and learning the importance of everyone being 'different but all the same'.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Zombie Nerd and the Half-Term Harrowing transports readers to a post-apocalyptic world where the zombie apocalypse has concluded, leaving behind a fractured society where zombies and survivors attempt to coexist. At the heart of the narrative is Ronnie Thanatos, a lovably awkward zombie who defies stereotypes. Alongside his companions Nate and Bridget, Ronnie embarks on a quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding the outbreak. Their journey takes them through the desolate landscapes of Necropolis, where they confront both external threats and internal struggles.

MY THOUGHTS

Jack Callaghan's Zombie Nerd and the Half-Term Harrowing injects new life into the zombie genre by shifting the focus from the initial chaos to the aftermath of the apocalypse. The characters are the heart and soul of this tale, with Ronnie, Nate and Bridget captivating readers with their distinct personalities and heartfelt interactions. Ronnie, in particular, stands out as a refreshingly unconventional protagonist, challenging preconceived notions of what it means to be a zombie.

The narrative's exploration of themes such as acceptance, friendship and identity adds layers of depth and complexity, elevating the story beyond a mere adventure. Readers are invited to ponder the meaning of humanity and the importance of embracing diversity in a world ravaged by disaster. Callaghan's writing strikes a delicate balance between humour and poignancy, eliciting both laughter and tears as the characters navigate the challenges of their harsh reality.

While the book excels in character development and thematic depth, there are some minor drawbacks to consider. The pacing occasionally falters, with certain sections dragging on longer than necessary, resulting in a slower progression of the story. Additionally, the formatting, particularly the inclusion of multiple dialogues within a single paragraph, can be confusing at times, disrupting the flow of the narrative.

However, these shortcomings are outweighed by the book's many strengths. Zombie Nerd and the Half-Term Harrowing is a captivating read that will resonate with audiences of all ages. It is a testament to the power of friendship, resilience and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

Cover Reveal & Giveaway - LightFall by Elsa Jade

LightFall

(The Dreadmarked Dragon, #1)

Author: Elsa Jade

Publication Date: April 8th, 2024

Genre: Adult Fantasy / Romance

Book Description:

He is the Dragon Prince, chained by the ghosts of sacrificed auras to a savage dragon. From solitary confinement in his obsidian tower, he flies out with the dragon to fight the demon horde—cursed by fate to give his soul and someday his life for the Living Lands.

Me… I’m nothing.

Or not quite nothing. I’m a good thief, clever with my great-grandfather’s animdao blade and my wayward tongue, which has kept me alive when no one else could be bothered—but which only get me in trouble when the Dragon Prince rescues me. He wasn’t rescuing just me, of course. There’s a fine lady and a brave soldier and a shy little shepherd, and also a holier-than-me cleric and a king, and some people who didn’t deserve to be rescued, truth be told… Neh, it’s a long story.

But every day is getting shorter, the nights colder as winter comes and whispers swirl of demonic verges splitting across the kingdom, freeing more ghastly spawn from the Lost Lands and threatening all that is bright and beautiful.

If that isn’t bad enough, the mystical binding on the dragon has begun to fray, and the scars that wound the Dragon Prince are bleeding where no one else but me can see. When only a Devouring will sate the monster’s hellish hunger, one waver off the path of auric purity will doom the Living Lands. Awful place for a thief, really.

Now the prince is threatening me as if this is my fault—although it may be partly my fault because I’ve never been able to keep my fingers to myself—and we’ll have to find our way through ancient tomes and fabled talismans and terrible battles before the kingdom crumbles. But I might be falling too—falling for the dreadmarked prince. He did save me, after all, so I might just save him in return.

+  +  +

Enter the exciting world of the Living Lands in LIGHTFALL, book one of The Dreadmarked Dragon duology, an epic adventure romantic fantasy, where noble intrigue and demonic war are equally fatal, where one touch in the dark may lead to desire or damnation—and love might be most dangerous of all. For fans of slow-burn romantasy who thought The Lord of the Rings needed a few more kisses.

Pre-Order Links:

Amazon US | UK

About the Author

Paranormal romance and science fiction romance for everyone who howls at the moon or looks up at the stars to dream. Learn more about Elsa Jade and the worlds of the Mating Season, Mating Fever & Intergalactic Dating Agency -- and sign up for the New Release Alert -- at http://elsajade.com

Latest News: See the profiles of the sexy aliens of the #IntergalacticDatingAgency in the free sneak peek at Instafreebie. http://instafreebie.com/book/15688

Author Links:

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Newsletter

***GIVEAWAY***

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BOOK REVIEW: Abby Has Arthritis by Olga Chinka

Abby Has Arthritis

Author: Olga Chinka

Illustrator: Ry Menson
Publication Date: 30 August 2020
Genre: Children's Picture Book

Book Description:
Abby is a ten-year old girl who has juvenile arthritis and chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. From taking medicine to routine doctor appointments, Abby shares how her life is affected by arthritis. From good days to bad days, Abby lets other kids know that they are not alone in this diagnosis.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

This is a poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by a ten-year-old girl living with juvenile arthritis and chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. Through Abby's perspective, the book delves into the daily struggles of managing her condition, from medical treatments to doctor appointments. It sheds light on both the physical and emotional toll of arthritis, offering insight into the experiences of young patients and those who support them.

MY THOUGHTS

This book provides a powerful and relatable narrative that educates readers about the realities of juvenile arthritis. The author adeptly captures Abby's voice, allowing readers to empathise with her journey and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the disease. As someone who may not have previously considered the challenges faced by children with arthritis, this book was eye-opening. It highlights the resilience of young patients while also acknowledging the difficulties they face on a daily basis. Additionally, the book serves as a valuable resource for caregivers and loved ones, offering insight into how they can better support children living with arthritis. Overall, this is a compelling read that raises awareness about a lesser-known aspect of paediatric health.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Own copy

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Crown of Wings and Thorns by Mary Ting

Crown of Wings and Thorns

Author: Mary Ting

Publication Date: April 4th 2024

Genre: NA Fantasy / Romance

Book Description:

A fight for a throne that will rewrite history

The demon King Asmodeus has taken over the mortal world. The Order of Angel warriors have a mission to take him down, but many have died or joined the enemy. When Evangeline’s team is ensnared in a web of deception, she has no choice but to form an alliance with King Victus, a vampire ruler with a reputation for killing angels. Can the two set aside the past and take down Asmodeus? Or will they turn on each other first?

Michael is a half-breed angel who wants no part of the nonhuman world. However, his immense power makes him a target. King Asmodeus wants him to join his army, and so does Order of Angels, but Michael dreams of settling down, not going to war. He may not have a choice. When his family’s lives are at stake, he’ll have to pick a side or lose everything.

Buy Links:

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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Cursed Wolf by Sophie Ash

Cursed Wolf

(Howling Death MC)

Author: Sophie Ash

Publication Date: March 29th, 2024

Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance

Book Description:

If the sweet veterinarian finds out I’m a werewolf, she’ll bolt.

But she’s my fated mate, and the beast in me is howling for a taste.

I’m the wolf she hit with her car and nursed back to health. I’m also the gruff biker who saved her from her creepy boss.

She has no idea man and beast are one and the same.

We’re from different worlds, but fate’s thread ties us together. She thinks we’re just dating, but she’s meant for me. And as I get to know her, I can’t get enough.

The more time we spend together, the more my wolf howls to claim her. Soon, I won’t be able to hold back the animal within me.

Fate has cursed me with an impossible choice. Reveal my wolf to a human and risk the safety of my pack.

Or force her into my world with a mating bite, and bind our fates forever.

Whether she likes it or not.

This book features fated mates between a human woman and a protective wolf shifter hiding a big secret. Each book in Howling Death MC is a standalone with a guaranteed HEA!

Buy Links:

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BOOK REVIEW: Slumber of Silence (The Talisman Series Vol 4.5) by Brett Salter

Slumber of Silence

Series: The Talisman, Book 4.5

Author: Brett Salter
Publication Date: 9 November 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Book Description:
Ah-hah! Nothing like the pungent smell of an ancient cave and the thrill of the hunt for a pair of mangey Garms to really make you feel alive, huh? In this canon novella of The Talisman Series, “Slumber of Silence”, Rome and Julian find themselves out on a mission for The Alliance, tracking a couple of Garms through a cave system that seems as old as the mountain range that shadows it. At first, it’s just another heroic operation to protect our world from the invasive Darkbrands, but the boys from Georgia quickly determine that these dank and cavernous passageways are so old and mysterious that they may have never even seen a human or dragon before. Or have they? What long-forgotten riddles hide within the pressing darkness of the cave? What silent and slumbering secrets have been kept for eons undiscovered? And without any backup from The Alliance, will Rome and Julian even survive to tell them?

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Slumber of Silence is the latest instalment of The Talisman Series by Brett Salter. In this book, Rome and Julian, two central characters, are dispatched on a mission by The Alliance following the events of The Battle for Verdana, Book 4. Tasked with closing a newly opened portal and dealing with the emergence of dangerous Garms, the duo ventures into a mysterious cave. As they navigate its depths, battling Darkbrands along the way, they uncover ancient secrets that challenge their perceptions of history and the world around them. Throughout their perilous journey, Rome and Julian reveal a more vulnerable side, emphasising the depth of their bond as they confront the dangers lurking within the cave's shadows.

MY THOUGHTS

This instalment offers an exhilarating addition to The Talisman Series, delving deeper into the dynamic between Rome and Julian while introducing captivating new elements to the overarching narrative. Salter expertly balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, providing readers with a nuanced portrayal of the characters' growth and resilience. The exploration of the cave not only adds an air of mystery but also expands the series' lore, hinting at the existence of ancient and enigmatic beings. This subtle revelation adds an intriguing layer to the story, leaving readers curious and eager for further exploration of the depths of this newfound mythology.

Furthermore, the evolution of secondary characters such as Jericho, Krystal and Mrs. Case adds depth to the narrative, enriching the ensemble cast and contributing to a more immersive reading experience. The palpable camaraderie between Rome and Julian is a highlight, underscoring the importance of friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity. By showcasing the characters' vulnerabilities, Salter humanises them, making their triumphs all the more rewarding for readers invested in their journey.

Overall, this book is a compelling addition to the series, offering a captivating blend of adventure, mystery and character-driven storytelling. Salter's adept storytelling and rich world-building ensure that readers will be eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating saga.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author

BOOK REVIEW: Life on the Line by David Skipper

Life on the Line

Author: David Skipper
Publication Date: 30 March 2024
Genre: YA / Coming of Age

Book Description:

A taut, gritty tale about two boys who live on a run-down housing estate near a railway line.Simon and Darren look out for each other—always have done. Especially these last few years, since Darren's dad died and his mum took up with Milo. Since Si's kid brother got so ill.Since girls, drugs and gangs became a part of life, and messing about on the railway line has turned into more than just playing stupid games.But sometimes even your best mate can't protect you from what life has in store further down the tracks...First published by Walker Books.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Life on the Line delves into the lives of two teenage boys, Simon (Si) and Darren, who navigate the challenges of growing up in a run-down housing estate near a railway line. The story revolves around their deep friendship, strained family dynamics and encounters with drugs and violence.

Si and Darren share a close bond, supporting each other through tough times, including Si's brother Jude falling ill and Darren's abusive stepfather, Milo. Despite their loyalty, they find themselves embroiled in risky situations, such as breaking into school grounds and dealing with Milo's violent outbursts. The discovery of a stray dog named Custer adds another layer to their friendship.

As the story unfolds, tensions rise between Si and Darren, exacerbated by secrets and conflicts. Si's desperation to escape the chaos leads him to make reckless choices, culminating in a near-fatal overdose. Meanwhile, Darren's sudden disappearance and disturbing revelation about Milo's fate leave Si grappling with uncertainty and guilt.

MY THOUGHTS

This book offers a raw and gritty portrayal of adolescent struggles, but it falls short in fully engaging the reader. While the friendship between Si and Darren is convincingly portrayed, the characters lack depth, making it challenging to empathise with their experiences. Si's motivations and desires remain ambiguous throughout, leaving a void in the narrative.

The pacing of the story is uneven, with lengthy passages that fail to advance the plot effectively. The inclusion of multiple subplots, such as Jude's illness and Milo's abusive behavior, adds complexity but detracts from the central narrative. Additionally, the sudden shifts in perspective, including insights from Custer the dog, disrupt the flow of the story and diminish its impact.

Despite these shortcomings, the book addresses important themes like loyalty, family dynamics and the consequences of substance abuse. With tighter character development and a more focused plot, the novel could have resonated more deeply with readers. Overall, while it offers glimpses of promise, it ultimately falls short of its potential.

VERDICT

Rating: 3 Stars

Source: BookSirens

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Pulling Her Resources by Mia Sivan

Pulling Her Resources

Author: Mia Sivan

Publication Date: March 16th, 2024

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

In Tel Aviv’s high-stakes business world, Dafna works in a startup teetering on the brink of financial doom. Divorced for six years and starved for passion, she goes on a wild one-night stand with a hot, much younger bartender. But then, the tattooed barman strolls into her startup. Surprise! Turns out he is Erez Ben Ami, the CPA assigned to go over their books with a fine-tooth comb.

Erez is a single dad, with a young brother to support. His boss offers him a dream position, but there’s a catch: first, review a new, promising startup and make it as favorable as possible. His future is on the line, and he must suppress his feelings for Dafna, keeping his hands and other parts to himself.

Dafna can’t stop wanting Erez, he is the man who made her get over her ex-husband. They spend hours together, and soon, they’re using the office desks for more than emails.

Erez is falling for Dafna, she is the woman he has always looked for. When he suspects shady dealings within her company, he finds himself at a loss. Investigating it can cost him his dream job, as well as the love of his life.

Pulling Her Resources is a stand-alone later-in-life steamy romance featuring a forbidden workplace affair, financial intrigue and a Happy Ever After.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble

Author Interview - Bright Midnights - A Dark Paranormal Love Story (The Limerent Series Book 2) by LS Delorme

Bright Midnights - A Dark Paranormal  Love Story

Series: The Limerent Series Book 2

Author: LS Delorme

Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense

ISBN: 9798987488027

Publisher: Limerent Publishing

Publication Date: 2 October 2023

Book Description:

Amelie has always been different.

Most high school students find life challenging, but 17-year old Amelie has a lot more to contend with than typical teenage angst. Ever since she turned 11, others have been irresistibly drawn to her—with tragic consequences. Her only escape is at night when she flies to different times and places through her “dreams”. Her life begins to change when, on one of her flights, she meets Clovis, an alluring and mysterious young man who hides a secret.

As Amelie finds herself increasingly drawn to him, she learns his story, how it intertwines with her own and finally discovers how to live her life in the real world. Until her own secrets are revealed to the wrong people and that world turns upside down.

Bright Midnights is the second in the Limerent Series and continues in the thought-provoking and beautiful style of the first as it considers different dimensions, different ways of looking at the world, and the transcendental power of love.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK