Tag Archives: Adventure

Ship of Spells by H. Leighton Dickson-review

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Ship of Spells by H. Leighton Dickson-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 4, 2025

She survived the wreck. Now she’s bound to a ship that shouldn’t exist – and a captain she can’t resist…

A war-scarred mage. A sentient ship. A secret that could drown empires.

Rescued from a wreck and waking aboard the Touchstone, a legendary vessel crewed by outcasts and ruled by a secretive elven captain, Ensign Honor Renn finds herself caught in a mission that could change the world.

The disaster that sank her last ship didn’t just take lives. It left something inside her, a dangerous magik everyone wants, and it’s killing her.

Now hunted by spies, princes, and privateers, Renn must decide who to trust before her power consumes her, or ignites a war that sets the sea on fire.

Ship of Spells is a fast-paced romantasy of magic, danger and slow-burn desire — perfect for fans of Samantha Shannon and epic high-seas adventure.

Tropes:

Enemies to Lovers
Slow-Burn
High-Stakes Quest
Found Family
Forced Proximity

••••••

REVIEW: “Ship of Spells” is an enchanting blend of romance, magic, and adventure set against the backdrop of the high seas. H. Leighton Dickson has crafted a tale that whisked me away into a world where danger lurks beneath the waves and desire simmers like a brewing storm.

Ensign Honor Renn, is a relatable and strong character. After surviving a devastating shipwreck, she finds herself aboard the Touchstone, a legendary vessel with a crew of misfits and a captain wrapped in mystery. The fact that the ship is sentient adds a fascinating twist and offers a unique perspective on the adventures that unfold.

As Honor grapples with the remnants of her past and the dangers of her burgeoning magic, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The enemies-to-lovers trope is my favourite. The initial tension between Honor and the elven captain is electric, as their contrasting personalities create sparks that ignite an undeniable chemistry. Their relationship develops slowly, fueled by the forced proximity of their circumstances.

It might be a slow burn romance, but the story kept me on the edge of my seat.

The crew of the Touchstone, each with their unique backstories, comes together to form a bond that i absolutely adored. Their diverse abilities and quirks added to the story, providing both comic relief and depth during tense moments.

The world building is exquisite, transporting us to a realm filled with magical elements and political intrigue. The high stakes quest keeps the plot moving swiftly, ensuring we are consistently drawn into the next thrilling challenge. The action is well paced, shifting effortlessly between moments of intense danger and tender character interactions.

Overall, “Ship of Spells” is a captivating adventure that combines romance and fantasy.

It’s a perfect read for fans who delight in epic high seas escapades.

With its well written characters, gripping plot, and a romance that simmers just right.

Set sail on this magical journey you won’t want to miss it!

🦋 Reviewed by Julie

Copy supplied for review

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Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patricia Briggs – a Review

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Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patricia Briggs – a Review

 

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Description:
When the deadly werewolf Asil is gifted five blind dates by some anonymous “friends,” his reclusive life will never be the same.

Includes two all-new stories as well as three previously published stories.

Dear Asil:

We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for you: five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!

Sincerely,
Your Concerned Friends

 

 

Review:

Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patrica Briggs is an interesting novel, with an old werewolf (Asil), who is gifted with five blind dates by some anonymous “friends” in this different novel. This is a collection of five short stories, with some of them being new and some have been previously published.

The story starts off with Asil, a deadly werewolf, who is gifted with 5 blind dates, as they were worried about him, and the friends have set a challenge for him using different dating sites.  The 5 dates would take place during the next few weeks before Christmas.

Asil is powerful, brooding, fast, strong, graceful and curious; always determined to see that justice is done.  Asil, better known as the Moor, is an ancient werewolf who is smart and highly lethal. Asil appears young but looks can be deceiving; especially Asil’s wolf is around to defeat the enemy.

All 5 dates were very different for each of them. The first date had Asil attending a Vampire Ball, with young people pretending to be vampires.  Kelly was a gay graduate student and not a real date. The second date had Asil rescuing a tiger shifter and lioness. The third date had Asil meeting Tami, a social worker; helping her rescue some clients. The fourth date, has Asil meeting a ghost hunter, who is a victim of an ancient fae; and Ruby and Asil begin to have feelings for each other. The fifth date has Asil rescuing Mariposa’s daughter, which creates dangerous situations; especially those threatening Asil’s life.

Blind Date with a Werewolf was an excellent story revolving around Ascil’s dates.  It was interesting, fun, strong, graceful, fast, as Asil was really very good. Once again, Patricia Briggs gives us a very nice story; that was very well written.  I suggest you read this enjoyable read.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Only Rogue Actions (Galactic Bonds5)by Jennifer Estep-dual review

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Only Rogue Actions (Galactic Bonds 5)by Jennifer Estep-dual review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 14, 2025

A WOMAN WHO DREAMS OF THE FUTURE . . .
Once upon a time, I was Vesper Quill, a lowly lab rat using my seer magic and engineering skills to repair broken appliances at a Regal-owned corporation. These days, I’m one of the most infamous and wanted fugitives in the Archipelago Galaxy, along with Kyrion Caldaren, my partner.

Kyrion and I are hiding out on a distant planet when we are offered a chance to train at a prestigious facility in hopes of better understanding our truebond, the psionic connection that lets us share thoughts, feelings, skills, and more.

Mastering our magic is the only way we can hope to defeat our many enemies and make my dreams of a safe future a reality, so Kyrion and I accept the invitation. But evil forces are at work, and our training exercise is not what it seems, plunging us both into another deadly situation with only bad options.

A MAN WHO CAN’T ESCAPE HIS PAST . . .
I’ve always been Kyrion Caldaren, a Regal lord with telekinesis, telepathy, telempathy, and other powerful psionic abilities. I might have gone rogue from the Arrows, the Imperium’s elite warriors, but my fighting skills are as sharp and deadly as ever.

Vesper Quill and I need help with our truebond, so we agree to participate in a rigorous training exercise designed to test the depths of our connection. But a new enemy has other plans, and we’re soon separated and confronted with one dangerous obstacle after another.

But my love for Vesper is stronger than any forces set against us, and I’ll do whatever it takes to make my way back to her—and kill anyone who gets in my way.

•••••••

SANDY’S REVIEW:  ONLY ROGUE ACTIONS is the fifth instalment in Jennifer Estep’s adult GALACTIC BONDS sci-fi, fantasy space opera-esque series focusing on the former leader of the Imperium Arrows Kyrion Caldaren, and his truebond mate/seer/R & D tech specialist Vesper Quill. ONLY ROGUE ACTIONS should not be read as a stand alone as some of the events of the current timeline are as of a direct result from the previous stories.

Told from three first person perspectives (Kyrion, Vesper, Nerezza) ONLY ROGUE ACTIONS follows Kyrion Caldaren and his bondmate Vesper Quill as they are invited to take part in a holographic training session that becomes all too real, more than just images projected throughout a maze. The obstacle course slash labryinth is the stuff of their nightmares, and our couple, separated, and without weapons, find themselves fighting for their lives, in the wake of vengeance and betrayal. Having been set up, Kyrion must face down the demons from his past, as Vesper struggles to save the man to whom she had bonded.

The world building focuses on a fight for survival. A holographic and virtual world with real world outcomes and injuries, finds our couple battling a familiar foe; one man’s personal hunting playground, and every act of vengeance for sins of the past.

The secondary and supporting characters are numerous, energetic and sometimes questionable.

ONLY ROGUE ACTIONS is an action packed story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing, dramatic and dark; the romance is fate-the $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied; the characters are charismatic and determined.

__________________

BARB’S REVIEW:  Only Rogue Actions by Jennifer Estep is the 5th book in her Galactic Bonds series. Only Rogue Actions is another wonderful action-packed sci-fi fantasy adventure, with a sweet romantic bond. As noted, many times, I am a big fan of Jennifer Estep, having enjoyed all of her fantastic series. Refresher: Vesper Quill, our heroine is together with her true bond, Kyrion Caldaren.  Vesper is a seer, as well as being a successful inventor/engineer; always increasing her magical powers. Kyrion is also powerful, especially with his Psionic Arrow abilities.   When the last book ended, both Vesper and Kyrion were accepted at House Collier, allowing them to live in their House.

Siya is one of the daughters, who is in charge of security; Asterin, has helped Vesper in past attacks in the Imperium. They both prepare Vesper and Kyrion for the Maze that has been working very well for House Battis; as most houses use this project.  

In a short time, a trap is set up for Vesper & Kyrion, with Roderick has privately brought his team into the maze, making sure he will be able to kill Kyrion, and Vesper is in danger (with Jeffrey helping Roderick kidnap her).  Also, both Siya and Asterin were handcuffed with Roderick’s staff, and they were also going to be killed; with Vesper going to be sent to one of her enemies. 

Vesper manages to escape a Black Scarub and kill it; and is determined to find a way to help Kyrion, who is being attack by Roderick.  But since she was close to the sisters, Vesper manages to defeat the 4 members of Roderick’s team, and knock out Jeffrey; and rescue Siya and Asterin.  Once the three of them notify House Collier to come for the rescue, Vesper takes control of Jeffrey’s computer to look for Kyrion, before Roderick kills him.  With Vesper powers, she manages to help Kyrion, who is very much in danger; and together they use their ability to stop and defeat Roderick.

Only Rogue Actions was in an exciting, no-stop, suspenseful, intriguing, captivating story that kept my attention from start to finish. Vespers magical powers continue to improve; as she was a fantastic heroine, smart and savvy. I loved seeing Vesper and Kyrion together to fight against their enemies. The last half of the book was very intense, with twists along the way. Only Rogue Actions was very well written by Jennifer Estep. Only Rogue Actions was another terrific, intriguing adventure filled with secrets, lies, betrayal, danger, and magic.  I suggest you read this wonderful book.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Only Bad Options
Only Good Enemies
Only Cold Depths
Only Hard Problems

Copies supplied for review

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A Touch of Treachery (Section 47) by Jennifer Estep -Dual Review

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A Touch of Treachery (Section 47) by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review

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Description:
UNANSWERED QUESTIONS . . .
My name is Charlotte Locke, and I’m on a mission to capture my nemesis. As an analyst for Section 47, a secret spy organization, I use my magical form of synesthesia to track down paramortal criminals, but one villain keeps eluding me—Henrika Hyde.

Henrika claims to have answers about my father’s death on a Section 47 mission years ago, and she has also created a horrific new weapon capable of killing even the strongest paramortals, which makes her my number one target. Helping me is Desmond Percy, a powerful galvanist who is my partner both inside and outside Section 47.

Desmond wants to take Henrika down just as badly as I do, but our mission quickly goes sideways, and soon we’re surrounded by enemies on all sides with no idea whom we can truly trust.

A TROUBLING FUTURE . . .
The name Desmond Percy is well known inside Section 47, since I’m one of the organization’s top cleaners, aka assassins. Charlotte Locke and I have been tracking Henrika Hyde for months, and when we finally get a lead on her location, we jump at the chance to take down the weapons maker once and for all.

I’m determined to help Charlotte get the answers she is so desperately seeking, as well as taking my revenge on Henrika for killing my best friend.

But the deeper Charlotte and I dig into Henrika and her murky motives, the more dangerous our mission becomes. Henrika is playing her own spy game, and Charlotte and I are just the pawns she is using to achieve her own evil ends—caught up in a deadly legacy of treachery.

 

 

Barb’s Review:
A Touch of Treachery by Jennifer Estep is a Section 47 series. Refresher: Section 47 is a secret government agency that handles paranormal, terrorists, criminals, and have magical abilities.  Their job is to gather information to prevent attacks, casualties, as well as to protect the mortal world; especially against those who create dangerous weapons.

Charlotte Locke, our heroine, is an analyst, who is very good at her job analyzing various reports and files to find mistakes, patterns, and anything that looks like threats.  Charlotte also has some magical abilities, such as having synesthesia ability to sense danger and detect lies. Charlotte is determined to stop a powerful villain, Henrika Hyde; but importantly she wants answers as to who killed her father. Charlotte knows that Henrika knows the truth, and suspects Jethro Percy as the man who killed him.   Percy hates Charlotte, as her father was a Locke; but Desmond Percy is Charlotte’s partner and love interest.

Desmond, our hero, and also a Section 47 Assassin, who is considered one of the best; as he also has powerful Galvanist abilities, which he is able to use the energy around to prevent attacks as well as be able to heal.

Both Charlotte and Desmond are invited to Henrika’s mansion for a party, and they hope she will give them the list that Henrika has hidden, revealing all the names of Section 47.  They both attend, trying to make a deal to get the papers; and there are other people attending that are friends of Henrika, who are interested in the weapons that people want. Henrika is playing her own spy game, and being used as pawns, with Desmond being kidnapped, and Charlotte, despite Jethro firing her, she finds a way to save Desmond; with help from Joan and Gabriel.

When Charlotte gets a tip from Henrika, as to the truths about Jethro being part of her father’s death.  She puts together all information that will reveal Jethro’s past partnership with Henrika, and revelations will be revealed, leading information about all the terrible things, and money from the Locke family that Jethro stole.  This was a legacy that was a touch of Treachery.

What follows is an exciting, action filled, suspenseful story that kept me unable to put the book down. Charlotte was a great heroine, as she was not only smart & savvy, but unbeknownst to others, lethal with a weapon, since she learned from her father.  I also loved Desmond, as he was not only a sexy hunk, but also very confident with his ability; and was very much in love with Charlotte.  He was the one who needed to stop his father.

A Touch of Treachery is another wonderful addition to this wonderful and intriguing urban fantasy series. A Touch of Treachery was very well written by Jennifer Estep.  I loved both Charlotte and Desmond, and look forward to more on them in future books.   I suggest you read A Touch of Treachery, as was a great read.

 

Sandy’s Review:

A TOUCH OF TREACHERY is the third instalment in Jennifer Estep’s contemporary adult SECTION 47 paranormal, urban fantasy series focusing on diner owner / paramortal analyst for Section 47 Charlotte Locke, and assassin/cleaner Desmond Percy. A TOUCH OF TREACHERY can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

SOME BACKGROUND: Paramortals make up approximately one percent of the world’s population, and most have hidden their magic from the ‘mortal’ world. Section 47 is a paramortal spy organization whose mission was to gather intelligence to prevent terrorist attacks but found themselves tracking those who use magic to commit their crimes.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Charlotte and Desmond) A TOUCH OF TREACHERY focuses on the investigation into CEO and founder of Hyde Engineering Henrika Hyde, a chemist who has invented a powerful weapon known as Redburn, in her war against the paramortal but at every opportunity, Section 47 agents Charlotte Locke and Desmond Percy find themselves in a losing battle, and our heroine is about to pay the price for the sins of the past. Charlotte and Desmond are both Legacy agents, children of Section 47 operatives, but a target has been placed on Charlotte’s back, and our heroine is determined to follows the clues and reveal the truth. Henrika Hyde is hoping to sell Redburn to the highest bidder, and our couple are last minute invites to the bioweapon auction.

The world building is complex and detailed as Charlotte and Desmond find themselves in a fight for their lives. From auctions to fundraisers, abductions and murder, betrayal and vengeance, Charlotte and Desmond struggle to accept the revelations at face value, in an effort to uncover the truth and the reality of the who, how and why. For fans and followers of the author’s books and series, the similarities to her Elemental Assassin series are numerous and recognizable.

The relationship between Charlotte and Desmond continues to be strong in the face of perceived betrayal and dysfunctional family dynamics. Several agents question the validity of their relationship, and the people in charge are determined to separate and dismantle any future together. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of powerful, energetic and sometimes questionable secondary and supporting characters including Henrika Hyde; Section 47 agents: liason Joan Samson, Gia Chan and Diego Benito; former Section 47 Agents Gabriel Chase, and Bryce Finkley, and Desmond’s father General Jethro Percy, head of Second 47 Board of Directors.

A TOUCH OF TREACHERY is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, mistrust and magic, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is dramatic and edgy; the romance is heartwarming; the characters are determined,desperate and charismatic.

Copies supplied for review

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Overture of Shadow (Muses’ War 1) by Wally Waltner-review

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Overture of Shadow (Muses’ War 1) by Wally Waltner-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 24, 2025

Light reveals, shadow conceals. What we illuminate, we become.

In Breheimen, artisans and craftsmen aren’t just respected. They are revered. The Muse-touched are individuals whose creativity seems divinely inspired, capable of conjuring beauty so profound it borders on the mythical. Their gifts shape culture, hold political sway, and define the kingdom’s identity—the very spirit of the realm.

But when Master Bard Dorian Silversong is summoned to the capital by his mentor, he walks into a world unraveling. That same mentor, the head of the prestigious Collegium Bardica, has been murdered. Muse-touched artisans are vanishing. And at the heart of it all lies a web of courtly machinations and unseen forces determined to twist the bond between creator and creation for malevolent ends.

What if the power to create was the greatest one of all?

•••••

REVIEW:Overture of Shadow begins with Master Bard Dorian Silversong having been summoned to the capital by his mentor, Sonoran. Upon his arrival at the capital, he is informed that his mentor and friend had been murdered a couple of days before. Dorian then makes his way to Lydian’s estate where she proceeds to tell him what has been happening in the capital.

Dorian and Lydian attended the Collegium Bardica together and had always been close friends and held Sonoran close to their hearts. The Collegium is where the Muse-touched artisans attend to master their particular area of expertise. When Lydian also tells Dorian that other Muse-touched artisans have vanished they vow to get to the bottom of what is going on.

Dorian and Lydian make their way to Sonoran’s estate, which was bequeathed to Dorian upon Sonoran’s death, it does not take long for the two of them to stumble upon things that upend everything they thought they knew about the Muse-touched.

As they set out to uncover the truth, there are several things that must be investigated head on. One being the attraction that has always been there………………Second being their beliefs that being Muse-touched was a blessing for everyone who was chosen.

Overture of Shadow is a well written fantasy tale that slowly lures you into the story. The world building is second to none and leaves the reader being able to see, in their mind’s eye, a landscape that is intriguing and beautiful. The secondary characters, especially Mixolydian (Mixie for short), are very well written. Mixie’s character development leaves you hoping that she features prominently in the next installment. If you are a fantasy fan, you will surely enjoy this world full of intrigue created by Waltner. Well done, Wally Waltner!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie

 

GOODREADS / Amazon Author Page/ Raconteur Press/

Wally Waltner is a genre fiction author and storyteller whose work blends the grandeur of epic fantasy with the pulse and punch of pulp-era adventure. His stories explore the transformative power of creativity—where art and imagination aren’t just themes, but elemental forces that shape worlds, destinies, and the people caught between them.

Born and raised in rural South Dakota, Wally’s roots are grounded in wide skies, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the quiet stories that unfold far from the spotlight. That upbringing taught him the value of listening closely—to people, to landscapes, and to the myths that live just beneath the surface of everyday life. It also fed an active imagination, where a discarded pipe fitting becomes a ray gun, the bed of a rusted-out pickup truck becomes a sailing ship’s deck, and a fallen tree becomes Excalibur.

Wally holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Saint Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he studied brass performance, voice and composition. Though his creative medium has shifted from music to the written word, the rhythmic sensibility and harmonic structure of his early training continue to shape his storytelling today. Whether orchestrating the politics of a fallen kingdom or the inner lives of Musetouched heroes, Wally brings a composer’s discipline and an artist’s intuition to every tale.

His fiction is often set in richly textured worlds like Breheimen, a kingdom where creativity is more than expression—it’s power, and sometimes peril. Drawing inspiration from bardic traditions, psychological archetypes, and the high-stakes drama of pulp narratives, his work celebrates both the beauty and the burden of imagination.

Muses’ War: Overture of Shadow From Wally Waltner and Raconteur Press

Beyond the page, Wally has spent his career as a leader in the management consulting world, where he helps organizations solve complex problems through clarity, structure, and strategic insight. That same mindset flows into his writing, where story architecture, character purpose, and thematic resonance are treated with the same rigor he brings to transformation programs and executive leadership.

Amongst other things, Wally is a certified Kansas City Barbecue Society judge, a volunteer leader for Paizo Publishing’s Organized Play Program, and a worship musician for his local church.

Wally lives in Kansas City with his wife of 33 years, Mechelle — his steadfast partner in life and creativity — and they are the proud parents of a grown daughter who continues to inspire them both. With plans to relocate to North Texas in the near future, Wally is looking forward to planting new roots, meeting new readers, and finding new stories in the heat, hum, and cultural crossroads of the Lone Star state. Whether he’s exploring broken kingdoms, guiding reluctant heroes, or unpacking the strange bargains that power human ambition, Wally Waltner writes with a storyteller’s grace, a strategist’s mind, and a heart full of wonder. His goal is simple: to craft compelling, creative stories that stay with you long after the final page

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The Inheritance by Ilona Andrews – a Review

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The Inheritance by Ilona Andrews – a Review

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Description:
We are at war. The interdimensional invasion brought us unimaginable suffering, but it also awoke talents slumbering deep within us, a means to repel and destroy our enemy. Every day new gates open, leading to breaches filled with monsters and valuable resources. If you are a Talent, your country needs you. The world needs you. Be the hero you were born to be.

Adaline is a Talent. Ten years ago, she had a happy marriage and a job she loved. The invasion shattered both. Now she works for the government, searching the breaches for magic metals and medicine to help Earth repel an interdimensional enemy. Two kids, one cat, bills, benefits, mortgage and school tuition…Risking her life became routine.

She had gone into the dimensional gates hundreds of times. She was always well protected. This time everything goes wrong. Now Ada is trapped in the labyrinth of alien caves unlike any other. Her only companion is a scared German Shepherd named Bear. Together they must uncover the breach’s secrets and escape, because Ada promised her children that she will come home.

The future of humanity depends on it.

 

 

Review:

The Inheritance by Ilona Andrews is the first book in their new series, Breach Wars. We are at war. Every day new gates open, leading to breaches filled with monsters and valuable resources. Beyond the breach entrance there is a miniature dimension that links to the hostile world.

Adaline Moore is a 40-year-old single mom (2 kids) who developed a talent that allows her to see and analyze minerals and other resources in the rift worlds. She works for the Federal government, breach assessor who looks out for various objects of value. She is the mother of two, strong and very smart. 

The other thing that happens is that humans have figured out how to shut the breaches down. Since they only have 3 days to get out before the anchor is damaged. Adaline’s team discovers gold and a huge deposit of adamantine, which turned out to be an attack from those monsters. An incident leaves her in the breach alone with only a dog, Bear for company, as she is driven to survive so she can get back home to her children. She had gone into the dimensional gates hundreds of times. She was always well protected. This time everything goes wrong.

During her attempt to survive, her and Bear find themselves under attack often, and both need to survive by eating food from the dead monsters; with both inheriting new abilities.  They are trapped in the labyrinth of alien beings, but Ada knows they need to uncover the breach secrets in order to escape. I will say I loved Ada and Bear.

Elias, the guild master of Cold Chaos, has been determined to find the truth of what happened.  He knew that the two people who escaped, might be hiding the read truths of how they did survive.

The Inheritance was an exciting, tense story of survival, monsters and breaches.  I really adored how Ada and Bear were so good together.  The Inheritance was very well written by the Ilona Andrews duo (Ilona and Gordon Andrews).   I look forward the next book in this series.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied

 

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The King’s Bow (The Great Lighthouse 1) by Jamie Roe-review

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The King’s Bow (The Great Lighthouse 1) by Jamie Roe-review and guest post

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date JUNE 20, 2025

Thick fur, hungry fangs and sharpened claws. On Tamuz, it’s hunt-or-be-hunted, and Asher is a vegetarian…

Asher has spent his life running from responsibility. But when tragedy strikes and the Rabbethi kingdom is threatened by a bloodthirsty horde, he discovers there’s nowhere left to run. With his people fractured and their survival uncertain, Asher must become the one thing he has always feared – king.

His only hope to re-unite the kingdom lies in an ancient weapon lost to time, said to grant its wielder a fragment of divinity. Accompanied by Cara, a cunning and skilled agent of the Vulpen Queendom, Asher must travel to distant lands, put his trust in foreign leaders and enter the domain of ancient enemies. Though conflicting loyalties and natural instincts set them at odds, the two must work together to outpace a more primal and ravenous force than war itself.

However, a high priestess has her own designs for the weapon – and Asher’s blood. If she succeeds, an even darker force will rise, threatening to consume all of Tamuz. Asher soon learns that claiming the artefact is only the beginning, and the price of failure could doom not only his people but all of Tamuz.

With the crown heavy upon his head and the fate of the world in his paws, Asher must choose: become the leader his people need or let the world be swallowed in blood and shadow.

•••••

REVIEW: I’m going to admit, I’m not sure what I was expecting. I had a conversation with a friend who said it reminded them of “Rocket”, from Guardians of the Galaxy. So with an open mind and with some in trepidation I opened the kindle….

In “The King’s Bow,” the author crafts a captivating tale that plunges us into the vibrant yet perilous world of Tamuz. With its rich tapestry of anthropomorphic characters and high stakes, the story revolves around Asher, a reluctant character who must step up in the face of dire circumstances.

Asher’s journey from a carefree vegetarian to a potential king is filled with growth/self discovery and danger! The author explores themes of responsibility, leadership, and the complexities of loyalty. The contrasting dynamics between Asher and Cara, the skilled agent from the Vulpen Queendom, is rather vast, that brings tension, but as they begin to cooperate, they have a better understanding of one another.

The story is rich with descriptions that almost make you wish you were there. The landscapes are rich and detailed, the scenes are so lifelike that I had to blink twice in order for me to realise I’m in the chair at home, and not in the village/battleground or anywhere near Tamuz!

The high priestess with her own agenda adds an intriguing layer to the story, heightening the stakes as Asher races against time to secure the ancient weapon. You get the feeling that she’s either hiding something, or she has her own agenda! 🤔

The plot twists are good, just enough to keep me on the edge of my seat. The realization that the quest for the artefact is just the beginning of Asher’s challenges keeps the story from getting too boring, and the looming threat of a darker force adds an sinister undertone, making Asher fully aware of the consequences that will come if he fails!

I still kept expecting the characters to “shift” into humans! So for me, it took a little longer to connect with the characters.

The author creates a world where friendships, betrayals, and the burden of leadership collide, making this an interesting read.

I am wondering where the next book will take us.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B

Social Media: Goodreads/  Website/  Instagram /Facebook/  Bluesky Social

I’m currently giving the ebook version of THE KING’S BOW  for free on Amazon between 8th – 12th. Free Amazon eBook

I’ve always been a fan of fantasy, no matter what form it took, whether that be films, novels, or video games. Even when I was little, I would write small fantasy stories about werewolves, dragons and knights. No one would see them, but I always had so much fun writing them. Films like The Lord of the Rings were a massive inspiration for me, as were video games with strong narratives. It’s why I became a video game designer: to tell stories in a way that people could become a part of them. With games, that’s easy, but immersing a reader is a challenge I love to tackle, with detailed scenery, deep worldbuilding and genuine emotions.

I started this story during lockdown. It began as a very traditional fantasy, featuring my equivalent of elves and dwarves, as well as many gods. That eventually changed to anthropomorphic races instead, but one thing that remained was the enclosed world and what lay at its centre, the Great Lighthouse. That was something I knew I wanted, something that made the world my own. The map underwent numerous iterations, right up until publication! But the lighthouse was always at the heart of it all.

The anthropomorphic character idea came, no surprise, from my love for animals, specifically the woodland creatures found in my home of the British Isles. Combine that with my love for walking, talking animals that stems originally from my love for Disney’s Robin Hood. The natural abilities and instincts of such a wide range of species offer a great deal in terms of how the people of my world interact with each other, and how cultures could potentially evolve around them. This led to interesting developments I never expected when I first started writing, such as the Rabbethi people being the only “prey” race among a world of predators. A total accident, but it led to some really interesting interactions between certain characters, and became a driving point for one in particular.

I like to plan VERY loosely when I write. I have key moments in mind that I’m driving my characters towards, and a few bullet points within chapters to help steer them towards these key moments. But in general, I love letting the story emerge naturally on the page. I love how the characters reveal to me what they’re going to do next and how they feel about what’s happening to them. I know how a character thinks and what their goals are; then I just think, “What would they do next?”. Sometimes I’m utterly shocked at what they decide to do, and I absolutely love it.

The King’s Bow was around 4 years in the making. It was an absolute joy to write, and I’ve learned so much during the process. My writing has improved tenfold since I started, and I’ve learned many valuable lessons that I’ll take with me into the sequel. You can stay up to date on my progress by visiting my website www.jamieroe.com and signing up for my newsletter.

I hope you’ll join me on this journey!

Jamie

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Rebel in the Deep (Crimson Sails 3) by Katee Robert-review

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Rebel in the Deep (Crimson Sails 3) by Katee Robert-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date MAY 20, 2025

Nox has been steadfastly working for the rebellion for years. They don’t ask for much in return, except for one crucial condition: their ex, the noble Bastian, stays as far away from them as possible. To say things ended poorly between them is an understatement . . . and it’s the only relationship Nox has never quite recovered from.

But now the rules have changed. Siobhan, the rebel leader, has emerged from hiding to tell Nox that Bastian’s been taken captive and the secrets he holds tight are in danger of being revealed. The fate of the entire rebellion now rests on Nox and Siobhan’s ability to rescue Bastian from a Cŵn Annwn ship.

Saving Bastian is only the start of their hardships, as the trio is tracked by ferocious pirates across Threshold. And Nox’s complicated relationships and entanglements with Bastian and Siobhan put not only their life at risk but their heart on the line.

••••

REVIEW:REBEL IN THE DEEP is the third ( and final?) instalment in Katee Robert’s adult CRIMSON SAILS erotic, fantasy adventure series. This is Nox, Bastian and Siobhan’s story line. REBEL IN THE DEEP can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including menage and same sex situations, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from three first person perspectives (Nox, Bastian and Siobhan) REBEL IN THE DEEP focuses on the ongoing rebellion against the Cwn Annwn. Nox is the captain of the ship Audacity, and a visit from Siobhan finds Nox facing the woman who is now in love with Nox’s ex but all is not well. Bastian disappeared months earlier, and Siobhan needs Nox’s help to rescue the man whom they both love. Bastian is the prisoner of Morrigan and the Cwn Annwan, but Morrigan is about to find herself facing a familiar foe, the woman who is about to come into the powers with the blow of the horn. With the rescue of Bastian, Nox and her crew go in search of a mythical horn, in an effort to ensure a ‘call the wild hunt’.

The world building is complex and detailed as Siobhan must face the reality that is her heritage and history. Nox struggles in the face of their possible death, a sacrifice to save the people they love. Bastian is caught between the two people with whom he has fallen in love but the reality is less complicated when they offer Bastian a chance at a happily ever after.

The relationship between Bastian, Nox and Siobhan is fraught with heart break and love. Bastian broken Nox’s heart to return to his homeland and accept the mantle of second in line but Bastian found himself on the run with Siobhan, one year later, once again breaking the heart of the woman he left behind but reconnecting with Nox means the journey to war, as the crew of the Audacity is on a mission of which they may not survive. The $ex scenes contain scenarios of menage and same $ex situations.

There is a large ensemble cast of magical, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting supernatural characters including shifters, vampire, selkie, witch, and elemental pirate. Most of the characters have some sort of magic, magic that wanes with the use of power.

REBEL IN THE DEEP is a story of magic and mayhem, power and control, betrayal and vengeance, love and acceptance. The character driven premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are desperate and determined.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

HUNT ON DARK WATERS
Blood on the Tide

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her 2015 title, The Marriage Contract, was a RITA finalist, and RT Book Reviews named it ‘a compulsively readable book with just the right amount of suspense and tension.”  When not writing sexy contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Connect with Katee at: Website | Facebook | GoodReads | Instagram

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