Lunar Shadows by T.F. Walsh – a Review

Lunar Shadows by T.F. Walsh – a Review

 

Lunar ShadowsAmazon

Description:
A powerful seer. A fight to stay alive. A soulmate to protect.


Zana believes she can stop death. After all, why else would she receive prophetic dreams? Now she just has to actually save someone. But nothing prepares her for the Lunar Festival’s events; a tragic death, her vile ex acting all cave-man on her, and the sudden appearance of Shadow, a hunky and arrogant Guardian from the kingdom. Except, she’s done with men after what her last one did to her. But when her latest vision shows Shadow’s demise, she is determined to prove her gift is a blessing not curse.

Shadow is visiting his uncle for a small vacation. When he stumbles across a murdered family member, eliminating the threat is a must. Bumping into Zana at the crime scene, a beautiful vixen, smart and stubborn, has him questioning her involvement. But when she declares he’s in danger and will protect him, he’s not sure if he should be flattered or insulted.

As they close in on the killer, Shadow starts to believe the real danger might be losing Zana and the grip she has on his heart. Will Zana and Shadow survive a danger beyond their imagination?

 

Review:

Lunar Shadows by T.F. Walsh is the 2nd book in her The Guardians series.  Zana is a half-human, half goblin who doesn’t fit in anywhere, no matter how hard she tries.  She had finally settled in Pryvale and made a life for herself.  She worked for Klurt,  the Wart Market organizer and he had became like a father figure to her.  Zana had visions when someone would die but the only thing she couldn’t figure out was how to prevent the deaths from actually happening. 

Zana’s life is turned upside down when a horrible death occurs.  Lost in a world of grief and anger, she vows to solve the murder and prevent anyone else from being hurt. Klurt’s nephew, Shadow, was a Guardian from the kingdom.  Klurt was thrilled that Shadow was coming for a visit and couldn’t wait to see him.  Shadow arrives amid chaos and turmoil and his world is turned upside down when he meets Zana.  

Shadow and Zana are thrown together to solve the murder that just occurred in Pryvale.  Both are grief stricken and angry but they are not immune to the chemistry that is blazing off the charts between them! T.F. Walsh has written another outstanding book.  Shadow is the perfect specimen of sexy male with just the right amount of heart to make you love him.  Zana is the heroine we all want to be.  She’s been through so much but she doesn’t cower in the corner and hide.  She faces whatever adversity comes her way with a swift kick to the shin.  Put these two characters together and we’ve got a dynamic, smoking hot couple that are ready to rid the town of the evil corruption that is running rampant.  Add in a mating dance ceremony and more attempted murders and we have the perfect storm of a story.  I loved every part of this book and can’t wait to read more of her writing.  

Reviewed by Tricia

Copy supplied for review

 

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Binding Curse by T.F. Walsh – a Review

Binding Curse by T.F. Walsh – a Review

 

Binding CurseAmazon

Description:
She needs him to save the world. He needs her to save himself.

A terrifying darkness has risen and is sweeping Kutia Hollow, leaving dead bodies in its wake. Luna Vale, a fae militia lieutenant in post-apocalyptic Moscow, discovers evidence that a criminal holds the answer to stopping the murders. Except those in charge at the precinct are corrupt. She’s determined to protect everyone from extinction and breaks Axel out of prison.

Devastated to be on the run from her former friends and colleagues, she must now work together with Axel before the killers close in on them. But time is running out, and falling for Axel only heightens the dangers. To survive, Luna must find strength in her arcane powers and confront the cursed creatures whose malevolence knows no bounds. Failure isn’t an option. Not when it means losing her family, her job, and her life.

 

 

REVIEW:

What do I say when it’s time to review a book I’ve read?  That’s always the question when I begin typing out a review.  How can I make it interesting without giving away too much information?  What words can I use in place of “I loved it!” or “great read!”???  This is my dilemma people!  So forgive me if my reviews sound the same for T.F. Walsh books but I love them all.  I thoroughly enjoy her style of writing, the characters are amazing and the non stop action in each story has me mesmerized until the end.  Binding Curse is no exception.

The main characters are Luna and Axel.  Luna is a fae police officer who wants to protect, serve and do everything by the book.  It was her need to help others that led her to defend Axel when she found him being attacked by two men.  As the situation escalated, Luna began to realize that things were not what they seemed.  The two attackers were acting strangely and extremely difficult to fend off.  The weirdness didn’t end there.  Once Luna and Axel were back at police headquarters, the situation just kept getting worse.  What was wrong with everyone?  Why was Axel being treated like a terrible criminal?  Why was the council representative there trying to change their procedures to get his hands on Axel?  Luna didn’t understand what was happening, but she knew she had to save Axel, even though it meant risking her career and possibly her life.  Axel is human, he appears to be a tattooed thug but don’t let appearances fool you.  There is serious heart in that hot sexy body and he cannot figure out why he is all of sudden being hunted.  As Luna and Axel run from the police and everyone else that is trying to murder them, they will discover powers of their own and a destiny that can possibly save their world.

T.F. Walsh has a true gift in writing.  Binding Curse is captivating from the first word until the very last.  She weaves a magical world of fae powers and romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat.  And as much as I hate the villains in a story, she writes them so well that the book wouldn’t be the same without them.  Just when you think Luna and Axel have met their end and there is no way out……BAM!  The story takes a magical turn that spirals the characters into an entirely new direction.  T.F. Walsh‘s talent with words to create Kutia Hollow and the characters within is absolutely extraordinary.  This was an amazing, spell binding journey to be on and I didn’t want it to end.  What’s the one thing I’ve definitely learned from this author? You don’t just read a T.F. Walsh book, you live each moment as if you were there.

Reviewed by Tricia

Copy supplied for review

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Hunted (Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Excerpt Tour

HUNTED (Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Excerpt Tour

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HUNTED
Eternal Guardians 8.75 / 1001 Dark Nights
by Elisabeth Naughton
Release Date: June 27, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, fantasy romance

Hunted

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 27, 2017

Erebus – Dark in every sense of the word, a skilled and lethal warrior, and sinfully sexy by design.

Since the dawn of modern man, Erebus was Hades’ secret weapon in the war between the immortal realms. Until Hades lost the minor god in a bet to his older brother Zeus. For the last hundred years, Erebus has trained Zeus’s Siren warriors in warfare and the sexual arts. But he’s never stopped longing for freedom. For a life filled with choice. And lately, he also longs for one Siren who entranced him during their steamy seduction sessions. A nymph he quickly became obsessed with and who was ripped from his grasp when her seduction training was complete. One he’s just learned Zeus has marked for death because she failed the last Siren test.

Before Erebus can intercede on the nymph’s behalf, she escapes Olympus and flees into the human realm. In a fit of rage, Zeus commands Erebus to hunt her down and kill her. Erebus sees his opportunity to finally go after what he wants, but he’s torn. Freedom means nothing if the Siren at the center of his fantasies doesn’t truly crave him back. Because defying the gods will unleash the fury of Olympus, and if he chooses her over his duty, whether she joins him in exile or not, the hunter will become the hunted.

•••••••••

REVIEW: HUNTED by Elisabeth is the latest installment (#8.75) in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS paranormal, romance series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history, as well as the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is the god of darkness Erebus, and siren/nymph Seraphine’s (Sera) story line. HUNTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing theme and story line running throughout.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Erebus and Sera) HUNTED is a second chance story line that focuses on the rekindling romance between Erebus and Sera, and the Sera’s battle to stay one step ahead of Zeus. Eighteen months earlier Sera had been trained in the art of seduction by the man who would steal her heart-Erebus- but Erebus made no promised for the future as his seduction of the Siren was all a part of the woman’s siren training. Fast forward to present day wherein Erebus has been ordered to retrieve a wayward Siren who had stolen something that Zeus wanted back. Enter Seraphine-the woman Erebus has not forgotten-and Erebus’s ultimate target. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Erebus and Sera, and the couple’s battle to remain together in spite of their promise and their pledge. Entering into the world of the Eternal guardian warriors-the Argonauts- finds our couple at odds as to their future, and the difficult task placed upon our hero’s head. Erebus knows that to defy Zeus’s command he will be unable to return to Olympus and remaining behind will place another target on his back.

HUNTED continues to follow Zeus’s struggle to complete the Orb of Kronus- a circular disk, designed by Prometheus, that holds all four elements, and the deity who is in possession of the Orb has the ability to start the war to end all wars. Zeus had previously stolen the Orb of Kronus from the Argoleans but the water element remains elusive, and Zeus suspects is has been hidden in Argolea, where the Olympians –and thusly Zeus- are unable to cross.

The character and world development is colorful and detailed-the ongoing premise and story line regarding the Orb of Kronus is intricate and detailed; the developing suspense is memorable and impressive.

HUNTED is a fast paced story line steeped in Greek mythology and prophecy blended into a modern day tale of gods seeking power and revenge against those they consider less than worthy. Several of the previous story line couples, Argonauts and gods play secondary and supporting roles-Erebus and Sera have found a permanent home with the Eternal Guardians and the Argonauts. The premise is imaginative and exciting; the romance is passionate, erotic and fated; the characters are colorful, inspiring and intense. HUNTED and the ETERNAL GUARDIANS series will captivate your imagination.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Hunted Teaser

excerpt

“You’re okay, Sera. I’ve got you. I’m going to get you out of here.”
Long minutes passed where she continued to tremble, and it felt as if his heart had taken up permanent residency in his throat. But slowly, as the heat of his body seeped into hers, her shakes slowly subsided, and she relaxed against him. He took that as a good sign. Lifting the shirt from her wound, he breathed easier when he saw the blood flow had lessened. She was going to have a nice-sized goose egg, but swelling outward from the impact was better than swelling inside the brain, and he knew that was an even better sign.
His pulse inched down. Glancing at her familiar face resting against his shoulder, he brushed a lock of wet hair back from her cheek, and as he did something warm and sweet slid through his chest. An emotion he hadn’t felt before. A yearning that wasn’t just sexual.
The feeling was so strong, so foreign, it threw him off kilter. He didn’t have emotions. He was a god who’d learned long ago that emotions were dangerous. And yet… Somehow he recognized the feelings taking up space inside him now had been spawned by fear. Not fear that she was going to drop to her death and that he was going to miss out on the rough, hot sex he’d been envisioning since the moment he’d recognized her in the woods, but fear that something bad would happen to her. That he’d never see her again. That he would lose her.
Sweat broke out along his forehead, and an odd tingle started in his chest. He told himself it was her heat making him feel weird. Not denial. Not anything else. But even that didn’t sound right, and he had no idea what the hell he was supposed to do next.
“Sera.” The word was a whisper, a plea, a demand. “Sera, wake up and look at me.” He needed to see her eyes. Needed her to explain what was happening to him. Needed to know if she felt it too.
She didn’t move. He knew she was breathing. Knew she wasn’t in any real danger. But the danger to him was suddenly all he could focus on. “Agápi. Open your eyes. Look at me, baby.”
She sighed and snuggled closer. But the reaction didn’t fire him up and make him ache to take her as he expected. It brought a calm over him that was more unsettling than the fear he’d felt before.
He didn’t know what was happening.

About The Author Black and White

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Elisabeth NaughtonBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

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Ares (Guardians of Hades #1) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

ARES (Guardians of Hades #1) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 26, 2016

Ares, book 1 in New York Times best-seller Felicity Heaton’s hot new paranormal romance series, Guardians of Hades, is now available in ebook and paperback. To celebrate the release of Ares and Megan’s romance, she’s holding a FANTASTIC GIVEAWAY and sharing sneak peeks of the book.

Enter the ARES international giveaway (ends December 11th) and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate by using the Rafflecopter form at her website, where you can also download a 4 chapter sample of the novel: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/guardians-of-hades-ares-paranormal-romance-book.php

 

Here’s more about the book and the sexy Greek god hero and his heroine…

Ares

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Prince of the Underworld and Lord of Fire, Ares was banished from his home by his father, Hades, two centuries ago and given a new duty and purpose—to keep our world and his from colliding in a calamity foreseen by the Moirai.

Together with his six brothers, he fights to defend the gates to the Underworld from daemons bent on breaching them and gaining entrance to that forbidden land, striving to protect his home from their dark influence. Caged by the manifestation of his power, held apart from those he loves by his own fire and starved of physical contact, Ares lives a cold existence driven by duty and the desire to return to his world.

Until his world collides with a daemon who steals his power and a mortal female who shatters the ice around his heart and awakens the true fire within him—a soul-stirring passion both dangerous and seductive.

Megan has wandered far from her home, driven from everyone she loves by the devastating realization that she is different to them all. Unsure who to trust in the world, she keeps to herself, until a fateful stormy night brings a temptingly handsome warrior crashing into her life and into her heart—a warrior who seems to hold powers more frightening and marvelous than her own.

When the New York gate comes under threat, and Ares is put to the test, will he choose his duty and regain the power he needs in order to save his world or will he choose the desires of his heart and sacrifice his fire so he can be with the woman becoming his whole world?

••••••••••

REVIEW: ARES is the first installment in Felicity Heaton’s adult GUARDIANS OF HADES paranormal, romance series based in mythology, focusing on six brothers- the sons of Hades and Persephone -sent to earth to guard the gates to the Underworld. This is Prince of the Underworld and Lord of Fire Ares, and Megan’s story line.

Told from several third person perspectives ARES focuses on the brothers’ battle to protect the Gates to the Underworld. With the recent influx of ‘daemons’ in searching for the elusive Gates Ares and his brothers have had to step up their nightly patrol but Ares finds himself out maneuvered in a battle where he will have his powers stolen by a daemon of unknown origin. Enter Megan, a human with some powers of her own, who witnesses the struggle of the man who will steal her heart. What ensues is the building relationship between Ares and Megan, and Ares battle between recovering his powers and the love of a woman that calls to his heart.

The relationship between Ares and Megan is one of immediate attraction. Ares believes Megan is his mate, and with the loss of his powers he is helpless against the feelings and emotional fall out of their physical relationship.

We are introduced to Ares brothers, each with their own power and abilities but brothers who know that once Ares recovers his powers Megan may be destroyed by the man that she loves.

ARES is a sexy and decadent story of ‘forbidden’ love told through character introspection, reflection and plenty of internal dialogue. Felicity Heaton invites the reader into a passionate tale about one man’s search for what he lost, and the love of a woman who offers everything and more. The premise is enchanting: the characters are colorful and animated; the romance is emotional. There is plenty of exciting and lively action as the brothers battle for their lives.

Copy supplied for review.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

Megan kept her head down, using the hood of her coat to keep the rain off her face. She wasn’t sure why she bothered. The storm had already soaked her to the bone. Maybe she did it because the streets in her neighbourhood were pitch-black due to the power outage and she had already passed several unsavoury characters on her route from the bus stop to her apartment. The only light came from passing cars and the lightning forking across the heavy clouds.

She had never seen such a violent storm before and it unsettled her, bringing thoughts of Armageddon and the end of the world. A man passed her on the opposite side of the street, running hard through the heavy rain. He crossed the road further up, moving to her side.

She wrapped her arms around herself as he paused on the pavement and looked in her direction. When her manager had told her she could knock off early from her nightshift at the packing warehouse because of the power problems, she had thought it would be a good thing. Now she wasn’t so sure. She hadn’t considered how dangerous it might be to cross several blocks of New York in total darkness.

The man hadn’t moved.

She turned left down the next street.

It was a shortcut she often used on her way home. Normally, she only did it during the day when there were plenty of people around. It cut several minutes off her journey but it was also an alley. She quickened her pace until she was verging on jogging.

A creeping sense that someone was watching her washed over her and she glanced back into the darkness behind her.

Lightning split the sky and illuminated the main street.

Her heart jumped into her throat as shadows danced around. No sign of the man. She was just being paranoid again. He had probably stopped to figure out where he was going. It was easy to become disorientated in the darkness.

Her footsteps echoed along the alley, loud despite the thunder rolling overhead and the sound of rain battering the tarmac.

She turned to face forwards again.

Lightning flashed.

Her heart leaped into her throat.

An immense figure strolled towards her from the other end of the alley, long coat flaring out from his waist in the wind that gusted from behind her, pushing her towards him. His hand reached down to his side, she caught a flash of metal in the next lightning strike, and then he was running at her.

Chills erupted down her spine and over her arms.

“Move.” The word was a dark growl and her heart stopped dead.

Before she could convince her feet to do as he had ordered, he reached her. A bright burst of light illuminated his face, revealing chiselled features set into a black scowl and eyes that burned her with their intensity as they briefly locked with hers, and then he was running up the wall beside her and flipping over her head like some damned action hero.

He landed hard behind her and her heart exploded into action.

Megan whirled on the spot and brought her hands up in front of her, expecting him to attack her. Her dark eyes widened. The man from the street was there at the other end of the alley.

The larger man ran at him and she caught flickers of both men in the lightning strikes and another flash of metal. The slimmer male had a gun too. Her breath hitched and she tried to run but found that she couldn’t. Her legs refused to respond, no matter how desperately she tried to get them to work. The one who had spoken to her reached the smaller man and they both moved incredibly quickly, beyond humanly possible.

Was it the lightning causing them to look as though they were moving faster than her eyes could track?

It had to be.

They clashed and before either of them could fire their gun, they had both knocked the other one’s away. The big man drew two large blades from inside his long black coat, his broad back to her, and clashed again with the slimmer man. She only caught snippets of their fight as the storm raged above them.

Was it a gang fight, or perhaps a mugging?

Megan wasn’t sure what was happening but she knew what she should be doing. She had to run, or maybe call the police. She pulled her bag towards her and fumbled with it. She couldn’t see a damn thing in the darkness. Where was her phone?

Lightning flashed again and the slimmer man was only a few feet from her, his wet blond hair plastered to his forehead and dark gaze locked on her. The large man tackled him from behind and they rolled past her as she shrieked and leaped away from them, hitting the wall of the alley. Her legs trembled and her bag fell from her shoulder.

“It will take more than steel to win this fight,” the blond man snarled and she frowned at his accent. French?

A bright flash exploded overhead, the thunder rolling in time with it, and she flattened against the wall. Both men had found their feet and were fighting close to her, heading back towards the end of the alley in a flurry of kicks and punches.

She caught brief flickers of the blond man’s thin face as he fought the bigger brunet. Rain rolled down his cheeks and dripped from his small goatee. He didn’t look scared as he fought a man twice his size.

That man circled with him, his expression a picture of darkness and intent. Strands of his overlong dark hair had fallen down and were stuck to his sculpted cheeks. Not a trace of fear lined his features either.

If anything, both of them looked angry.

The Frenchman attacked with a burst of punches, landing a few despite how quickly the other man moved to evade them and then he was on the defensive as the big man swiped with his twin knives. He grunted as one of the blades sliced across his arm and the sickening tinny scent of blood instantly joined the smell of earth and ozone in the air.

He flipped backwards towards the mouth of the alley and came to a halt. He straightened, facing the larger man, and squared his shoulders. The lights in the alley blinked back into life and Megan looked at the street beyond him. They were back on there too. The dim alley lights shone down on the two men as they faced each other, both casual despite the fact they were in the middle of a fight, as if this was an everyday occurrence for them.

The Frenchman tipped his chin up and his eyes narrowed. “I have been waiting for this moment for a very long time.”

“Your death?” the larger man growled, his voice deep and edged with darkness. “You should have dropped in earlier. I’m always happy to send scum like you into the afterlife.”

The Frenchman’s thin lips twisted in a cruel smile. “It is you who will die here tonight.”

“We’ll see.” The larger man launched himself forwards, boots pounding the tarmac.

The blond man raised his hand and suddenly the big one was flying through the air towards her.

She dived out of his path and hit the wet ground hard. Pain blazed through her right shoulder and she curled up on her side, covering her head with her arms. The brunet hit the wall and shards of brick rained down on her. When everything went quiet, she gathered the courage to crack her eyes open.

The large man lay face down on the ground near her. Above him, there was a huge dent in the brick wall of the building. What the heck had just happened? Was he dead? Her hands shook with the thought of witnessing a murder. It wasn’t possible that a man could survive something like that, at least not without broken bones and a severe concussion, but then everything that had happened in the last few seconds seemed impossible.

Her gaze darted between him and the blond man. She had faced some dire odds in her life and survived, but something told her that she wasn’t going to survive this. She should have run when she’d had the chance. She didn’t want to die here tonight.

The large man snarled something dark and her eyes widened as he moved. His hands shifted closer to his elbows and he pushed himself up onto his knees. He shook his head, causing the long strands of his wet hair to caress his face, and then got to his feet.

How the heck could he move after that?

He shouldn’t even be conscious.

His dark eyes shifted to her and she swore red embers lit their penetrating depths. He stared at her for a few seconds, as though they were the only two in the world and there wasn’t another man in the street with them.

A man who wanted to kill him.

“You okay?” he husked and she swallowed and nodded. He nodded too and then did something that surprised her. He smiled, his sensual mouth curving into it and setting her heart racing. How the heck could he smile when he had just been tossed into a wall with such force he shouldn’t be standing right now and was bleeding? “Stay down. I won’t let him near you. It’ll be over soon and you’ll be safe. Understand?”

He growled like a feral beast before she could respond and launched his right hand forwards, as though throwing something at the other man. A bright fierce orb of fire burst from his hand and shot down the alley, blinding in the darkness. He turned and chased it. It exploded against a wall and another flash of fire followed it.

Megan couldn’t believe her eyes.

The large man dodged and air whooshed past her, ruffling her wet shoulder-length hair. Trashcans further along the alley exploded as though something had struck them. Was that what had hit the large man and thrown him into the wall?

She crept to that brick wall and crouched there, keeping as small as possible. Her heart pounded and eyes darted, trying to take in the fight as fear turned to fascination.

The brunet unleashed another swirling orb of fire from his palms and the Frenchman evaded it, rolling forwards in the alley. The man levelled another fiery blast at him, catching him this time and sending him spinning through the air. He landed hard on the tarmac and rolled.

Awestruck didn’t cover how she felt as she watched them now. Both of them had powers. It was incredible.

The big man pounded towards the other one and he disappeared, reappearing right in front of him. They clashed again and the sound of material tearing cut through the thunder rumbling across the city. The brunet leaped backwards, towards her, distancing himself.

“You’ll pay for that,” he growled and she looked at the Frenchman. He stood in the middle of the alley, black cloth dangling from one of his hands. Had he torn the man’s clothes?

The slim blond smiled, tossed the piece of material aside and crooked a finger. “Come and make me.”

The brunet charged and they clashed again, each throwing punches. Megan flinched with every heavy blow and vicious kick, fear slowly trickling back in to wash away her fascination. She had seen some brawls in her time, but nothing like this.

This wasn’t a brawl.

It was a battle.

The lights on the walls flickered, flashes of lightning causing them to stutter. She couldn’t tell who was winning. She hoped it was the brunet because she had the impression that he wasn’t out to hurt her. Not like the other man. There had been moments when he had looked her way, and each time there had been a look on his face that said she was next.

The Frenchman ducked to evade a punch and threw his palm at the larger man. Was he trying to push him over? Megan couldn’t see why he would want to do that and it was the only explanation she could find for him pressing his palm against the man’s chest.

The immense brunet flung his head back and threw his arms out at his sides as he roared in agony at the storm. The lights on the wall of the alley died as his garbled scream filled the night, battling the growling thunder. He fell to his knees and arched backwards, the Frenchman’s hand still pressed against his chest. Orange light shone from the point where they connected, illuminating the blond man’s face as he grinned.

“It was too easy.” He drew his hand back and stared at his fingers.

Something glowed in the centre of his palm, strange light illuminating threads that ran around the back of his hand. He turned his cruel gaze on the large man.

The man collapsed forwards, palms pressing into the wet ground, and the lights on the wall blinked back into life again. His big body heaved as he breathed hard and she frowned as she realised something.

He was shaking.

Flames flickered over the Frenchman’s hand and a fireball grew from the centre of his palm. He aimed it down at the other man.

In an instant, Megan knew what he was going to do and she couldn’t allow it to happen. She couldn’t let this man kill the brunet. She wouldn’t stand for it. Her gaze quickly scanned the dimly lit street and darted back again. One of their guns lay on the wet tarmac only a few feet from her. She reacted on instinct, pushing off the ground and running for it.

She scooped it up.

Raised it.

Fired.

A loud crack like thunder split the silence and she jerked back from the force of the recoil.

The bullet nailed the Frenchman in his right shoulder, knocking him backwards, away from the other man.

An unholy shriek pierced her ears, more like the sound a bird of prey would make rather than a man, and the Frenchman turned his gaze on her. Megan hesitated, fear washing through her stronger than ever and her heart smashing like a jackhammer against her ribs. Eyes that glowed ethereally locked on to her.

What was he?

He raised his hand, the light from the fireball casting dark shadows across his face. She didn’t hesitate. She lifted the heavy silver gun and took aim again.

The fireball exploded from his palm.

About The Author

Felicity HeatonFelicity Heaton is a New York Times and USA Today international best-selling author writing passionate paranormal romance books. In her books, she creates detailed worlds, twisting plots, mind-blowing action, intense emotion and heart-stopping romances with leading men that vary from dark deadly vampires to sexy shape-shifters and wicked werewolves, to sinful angels and hot demons! If you’re a fan of paranormal romance authors Lara Adrian, J R Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter and Christine Feehan then you will enjoy her books too.

 

If you love your angels a little dark and wicked, the best-selling Her Angel series is for you. If you like strong, powerful, and dark vampires then try the Vampires Realm series or any of her stand-alone vampire romance books. If you’re looking for vampire romances that are sinful, passionate and erotic then try the best-selling Vampire Erotic Theatre series. Or if you prefer huge detailed worlds filled with hot-blooded alpha males in every species, from elves to demons to dragons to shifters and angels, then take a look at the new Eternal Mates series.

If you want to know more about Felicity, or want to get in touch, you can find her at the following places:

Website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk
Blog: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/blog/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/felicityheaton
Twitter: http://twitter.com/felicityheaton
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/felicityheaton

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There are TWO (2) ways to win !!

In addition to the gift card giveaway, Felicity is graciously offering an ecopy of any ONE book in her  back list *excluding ARES* (international) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered, please register using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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8. Giveaway is open internationally.

9. Giveaway runs from November 30 to December 3, 2016

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Find all the links, a fantastic 4 chapter downloadable sample of the book, and also enter the giveaway and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website: Find all the links, a fantastic 4 chapter downloadable sample of the book, and also enter the giveaway and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website HERE

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Unchained (Eternal Guardians 8.5/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Book Tour

UNCHAINED (Eternal Guardians #8.5/ 1001 Dark Nights) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review and Book Tour
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UNCHAINED
Eternal Guardians 8.5 / 1001 Dark Nights
by Elisabeth Naughton
Release Date: June 16, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, fantasy romance

Unchained

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 16, 2016

PROMETHEUS – One of the keenest Titans to ever walk the earth. Until, that is, his weakness for the human race resulted in his imprisonment.

For thousands of years, Prometheus’s only certainty was his daily torture at Zeus’s hand. Now, unchained by the Eternal Guardians, he spends his days in solitude, trying to forget the past. He’s vowed no allegiance in the war between mortal and immortal, but when a beautiful maiden seeks him out and begs for his help, he’s once again powerless to say no. Soon, Prometheus is drawn into the very conflict he swore to avoid, and, to save the maiden’s life, he must choose sides. But she has a secret of her own, and if Prometheus doesn’t discover what she’s hiding in time, the world won’t simply find itself embroiled in a battle between good and evil, it will fall in total domination to Prometheus’s greatest enemy.

••••••••

REVIEW: UNCHAINED is the 8.5 installment (and novella) in Elisabeth Naughton’s adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS romantic fantasy series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history. The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is Titan Prometheus, and witch Circe’s story line. UNCHAINED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order as there is a continuing theme running throughout.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Prometheus and Circe) UNCHAINED focuses on Prometheus- a Titan-who thousand of years earlier bequeathed fire to humans and was tortured by Zeus until his rescue approximately twenty five years ago. Fast forward to present day, and our ‘hero’ has secluded himself in solitude until the day the voices in his head become the spirit in the room. What ensues is Prometheus hunt for the woman who captivates his waking hours and his imagination, and the realization that not everything and everyone is whom they appear. As Zeus continues to hunt for the final element in the Orb of Kronos, Prometheus will be drawn back to Mt. Olympus, searching for the woman that calls to his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

UNCHAINED is a quick read; a story line steeped in Greek mythology about gods and goddesses, betrayal and revenge; power and control. Elisabeth Naughton blends modern day with fantasy and myth for a series that will capture your imagination placing a spin on the stories and fables we have grown to love. The premise is intriguing; the characters are memorable; the romance is hot and steamy.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter

Reviewed by Sandy

Unchained Teaser

excerpt

 

By daybreak, Circe’s strength had returned enough so she could conjure her magic. She wasn’t a hundred percent yet, but she couldn’t wait until her body completely healed. Zeus had made it clear the shade could return at any moment. She needed to step up her plan with Prometheus if she had any hope of breaking free from this prison.
She placed the length of chain Zeus had given her in the cauldron, held her hands over the bowl, and summoned her spell. The chain was her link to Prometheus. It had been a part of him so long it still possessed part of his lifeblood. With it, she could find him wherever he was in the cosmos. And with it she could make herself ethereal and lure him to her.
The rock walls around her faded, revealing stone columns and the sound of leaves rustling in the early morning breeze, birds chirping in the forest, and water rushing over the falls. The scents of moss and wood filled her senses as she turned, confused why the spell had brought her to the gazebo already. She wasn’t supposed to start out here. She was supposed to start with Prometheus and tempt him to follow her to th—
The thought halted when she caught sight of him, lying on his side on the chaise, his hands tucked up near his face, his eyes closed, and his chest rising and falling with his deep breaths. Something beneath her ribs tightened at the sight of him. Something other than lust. Fast asleep, his long dark lashes feathering the skin beneath his eyes, he looked more innocent than godly, more angelic than dangerous. And for a fleeting moment she pictured him chained to that rock in the blistering sun, unable to move, unable to do anything but wait for the giant eagle to swoop down and rip out his liver only to come back and do it all again the next day.
He’d only escaped that living hell because of the Argonauts. Because his daughter’s mate had rescued him so Prometheus could save her life. Zeus had been pissed when Prometheus was freed. Circe remembered all too well how he’d marched into her cave and ordered her to bring Prometheus back. It had taken her several hours to convince the king of the gods that her witchcraft didn’t work that way. Luckily—for her—Zeus had finally abandoned that order, but she knew he was waiting for the moment when he could make Prometheus suffer. Zeus’s memory was long. When someone bested him, he never forgot. And Prometheus had bested him more than any other.

 

 

About The Author

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Elisabeth naughtonBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

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Awakened (Eternal Guardians 8) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

AWAKENED (Eternal Guardians #8) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Tempted.indd

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / itunes /

About the book: Release Date April 12, 2016

DAMON – For twenty-five years he’s served as a plaything for the gods. With no memory of his past, he has no way of knowing if this is his ultimate fate, but he senses there has to be more to life.

Damon’s hope for more comes in the form of the Sirens’ newest recruit. Elysia is unlike any trainee he’s ever met. Not only can she remember where she came from—an ability the Sirens block—but she has an instant connection to Damon, one he’s never felt and doesn’t understand. Soon Damon is willing to do anything to have Elysia. Even risk the wrath of the gods to break her out of Olympus so he can keep her for himself.

But Damon’s past isn’t a mystery to everyone. Evil forces are at work beneath the surface, and before long, Damon realizes that the connection he shares with Elysia isn’t a random coincidence. His fate—and the darkness it brings—was cemented long ago. And when it is finally revealed, no one will be safe.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: AWAKENED is the eighth full length installment in Elisabeth Naughton’s adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS romantic fantasy series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history. The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is Damon and Elysia’s story line. AWAKENED can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order as there is a continuing theme running throughout. AWAKENED fast forwards the series twenty five years and begins to follow the next generation of Argonauts and warriors.

Told from several third person perspectives AWAKENED focuses on Damon-an imprisoned male who for twenty five years has been the sex slave to Aphrodite, without memory of his previous life, and a man trained in the art of seduction. When Athena sets out to train a new group of Siren recruits, Damon finds himself face to face with Elysia-the Argolea princess- and the woman who would call to his soul. What ensues is the forbidden relationship between Siren and Trainer, and Elysia’s need to save Damon from the only life he knows.

AWAKENED has a deep connection to the previous novella-RAVAGED- in that our hero must come to terms with who he is, and from where he comes. Damon is a man without a past, and his future has been decided by the gods. While Elysia struggles as a Siren recruit, Damon begins to fall deeper for the chosen princess. Betrayal, heartbreak, obsession and revenge are the focus for two lost souls-without memories to guide them Elysia and Damon battle their desires while trying to stay one step ahead of the gods. It is Damon’s warrior like persona that gives our heroine pause as to the true identity of the man with whom she is falling in love.

AWAKENED is detailed story of destiny, steeped in Greek mythology, prophecy and lore blended into a modern day tale of gods seeking power and revenge against those they consider less than worthy. While Zeus continues to seek the Orb of Kronos, Athena continues to build her army of Sirens. The premise is intriguing, intricate and enchanting; the characters are passionate, startling and intense; the romance is fated and seductive. Another fantastic addition to Elisabeth Naughton’s ETERNAL GUARDIANS fantasy series.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

Eternal Guardians 2

FREE ebook: Marked : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

99¢ ebook  Entwined : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Tempted : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Enraptured : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Enslaved : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Bound : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Twisted: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /The Book Depository
Ravaged: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /

Excerpt beige

 

“Mm…” Aphrodite swung her long legs over the side of the enormous bed and stretched her arms above her head. “That was wonderful.” Curly auburn hair the color of autumn leaves spilled down the pale skin of her naked spine as she turned and cast a coy look over her shoulder. “You get better and better, Damianos.”
The two naked nymphs who’d joined them scurried off the bed and rushed out of the room. Aphrodite pushed to her feet, all long lines and perfect curves, and crossed to the chaise.
The nymphs could disappear after the fact, the lucky females, but Damon could not. Rolling to his side, he propped his elbow on the mattress and rested his head on his hand as he watched Aphrodite slide a white silk robe onto her pale arms and tried not to be resentful of that fact. “Good thing, since my purpose is only to serve.”
Aphrodite smirked. “And you do it so well, erastis.”
Lover. He hated the way that word sounded.
The goddess moved back to the edge of the mattress and sat, then reached out and twirled a lock of Damon’s hair around her finger. “Speaking of serving, a new class of Sirens is set to arrive.” She pushed out her full, plump lips in a sexy little pout. “Athena is going to try to steal you from me again.”
Damon looked up at the goddess of love and desire and tried to feign disappointment, though inside, excitement leapt at the possibility of a break. Aphrodite’s temple wasn’t a bad place to spend your days—wide soaring rooms, tall stately pillars, marble everything, fountains and baths that promised both pleasure and relaxation, and the sweet scent of heliotrope wafting on the air, awakening the senses. But lately he couldn’t help thinking there had to be more to life than this. More than meaningless pleasure. More than casual sex. More than catering to Aphrodite, a goddess who cared only about herself.
“A new class, huh?” He rolled back into the mountain of pillows and laced his fingers behind his head, remembering that Athena and Aphrodite didn’t always get along. Jealousy was forever an issue between them—between any of the ruling Olympians—and he’d learned long ago not to show interest in any immortal other than the one currently in his line of sight.
“You don’t want to go, do you?” Aphrodite slid her finger down his throat and across the dusting of hair on his bare chest. “I could tell Athena you’re too valuable, which you are.”
This was where he needed to be careful. He couldn’t show too much enthusiasm, or Aphrodite would never let him leave. “Of course not. Training new Sirens is as enjoyable for me as spending time with your husband is for you.”
Aphrodite’s lips curled. Everyone knew she couldn’t stand her husband, Hephaestus. Her gaze hovered on Damon’s face. “That boring?”
She was beautiful, even Damon couldn’t deny that. Meadow-green eyes, flawless skin, high cheekbones, and lips made only for seduction. But though physically he was still attracted to her, more and more lately, he was finding it difficult to be aroused in her company. Sex with Aphrodite was as empty as his life these days. There had to be more. A reason he was here. A future that held some kind of purpose. Something other than…immortal perfection.
He drew his hand from behind his head and brushed the back of his fingers against the smooth curve of her jawline. “Infinitely boring. When I’m with the Sirens, I count the days until I return to your temple.”
Which was a flat-out lie. Working with Athena’s Sirens, training them in combat, strategy, warfare—even seduction—was a thousand times more fun than being stuck in Aphrodite’s claustrophobic pleasure palace.
Aphrodite sighed and smoothed her hand over his chest again, dropping her gaze to where she touched him. “I suppose I could consider letting you go. So long as I know you’re pining away for me. Absence, they say, does make the heart grow fonder.”
Damon had never found that to be true, but he refrained from saying so. He wasn’t about to do anything to jeopardize this chance to escape, however short his respite might be. “It does. Very much so.”
She leaned down and kissed him, sliding her tongue along his at the first touch and tasting him deeply. He didn’t pull away, didn’t say no, knew it was pointless to do so. Instead, he slid his fingers into the curly mass of auburn hair framing her face and kissed her back. Her mouth turned greedy against his, and she wriggled out of the robe she’d just pulled on, then pushed the sheet from his hips.
Yeah, there has to be more than this, he thought as she climbed over him. More than aphrodisiacs to keep him hard, more than meaningless sex, more than immortals using him for their pleasure. There had to be a hell of a lot more. Somewhere.
He just hoped he found it before he went mad.

 

 

About The Author beige

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Elisabeth naughtonBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

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The Undoing (Call of Crows #2) by Shelly Laurenston-dual review

THE UNDOING (Call of Crows #2) by Shelly Laurenston-dual review

The Undoing

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date march 29, 2016

No one would ever accuse Jace Berisha of having an easy life—considering her husband…you know…killed her. But that was then! Now she fights for mighty Viking gods with the spectacular and vicious Crows.

But things are turning very bad, very quickly because a vengeful, ancient goddess has come into the world with just one thing on her mind—ending it. And the only way they can hope to stop her is if the Crows join forces with their one-time enemies, the Protectors. A Viking Clan created to do nothing but kill every Crow they see.

Thankfully, Protector Ski Eriksen is a peace loving kind of guy. Because the woman he is desperately trying to get close to is the beautiful and not-very-chatty Jace. Battling Nordic clans? Unkillable goddesses? Jace’s mean-spirited dog? None of these things would ever get in the way of a true Viking!

•••••••••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW:

THE UNDOING is the second installment in Shelly Laurenston’s adult, contemporary CALL OF CROWS paranormal / fantasy series based upon the gods and goddesses of Norse mythology. The continuing story focuses on the upcoming battle of Ragnarok ; and the building relationship between Jacinda ‘Jace’ Berisha-a Crow, a Beserker, and a specialist in ancient languages, and Viking Protector Danski ‘Ski’ Eriksen. THE UNDOING can be read as a stand alone but for backstory and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as each installment prepares for ‘The Doom of the Gods’.

For more information about the meaning of Ragnarok click on this link: Norse Mythology: Ragnarok

Told from several third person points of view THE UNDOING is a story line steeped in modern day Norse mythology; of gods and goddess; of a pending war to end all wars; and the return of the goddess Gullveig-who wreaks havoc on Earth in order to instigate ‘The Doom of the Gods’. But there is a potential for human involvement as Jace’s ex husband-a false prophet-has a strong support network with close ties to our leading heroine.

THE UNDOING follows the Crows (Jace and her fellow sisters), the Protectors (Ski and his warrior brothers of Viking scholars), the Ravens and a whole other assortment of earth bound warriors whose duty is to protect, to battle, and to defend their gods.

The relationship between Jace and Ski is slow to develop as Jace must decipher and translate ancient text to unearth the secrets and stories of Ragnarok, and the end of the world. While our heroine is under the protection of the Protectors, she finds herself falling in love with her very own personal guard. The $ex scenes are limited, provocative and seductive. Jace and Ski are quiet but strong; shy but passionate-the romance is secondary to the over arcing story line premise.

THE UNDOING has a very large ensemble cast of characters from Norse and Celtic Mythology including gods, goddesses, Scandinavian and Viking influences, folklore and legacies. The world building continues to focus on the coming of Ragnarok, and the end of life as it is or once was. Jace’s Crow-sisters are a force unto themselves, while Ski’s Viking Protectors wait quietly to be called into war.

Shelly Laurenston blends humor with crazy characters and dangerous situations. You can always count on Shelly to add a bit of sarcasm and witty word play to her story lines making a difficult situation easier to fathom but in comparison to her Pride, and Dragon Kin series I found the humorous situations lower in number and less in your face ‘slapstick’ funny. The kickass heroines are strong and capable yet avoid the bitchiness factor that is the doom of many story line premises.

THE UNDOING is a story ripped from Norse mythology and Celtic lore. The premise is intense yet humorous with playful and entertaining moments; the characters are animated, colorful and action-oriented; the romance is a slow build between two quiet and introverted warriors. Shelly Laurenston’s CALL OF CROWS series is as much a story about family, as it is about the mythological gods and goddesses.

 

Barb’s Review:

The Undoing by Shelly Laurenston is the 2nd book in her wild crazy fun exciting Call of Crows series. If you have not read anything by Laurenston, then you are missing an adventure that will have you filled with wild excitement, sexy romance, and laughing all the way. There is no one like Shelly Laurenston. Thank you, Sandy. 🙂

The Call of the Crows is a totally different type of series, which takes place in a modern day Nordic world with Gods, Vikings, Crows, Ravens, Protectors, and even a flying pit bull. Every single one of the characters, many of whom we have come to love, are wild, vicious, and mostly crazy; but darn so much fun.

The Undoing belongs to Jace Barisha, who is a member of the female clan, Crows. Jace was murdered by her husband, and brought back to a second life after she promised her loyalty to a God. Jace is shy, and quiet, but she has the rage of a beserker, which helps when the crows have to fight the other clans or Vikings to save the world. In the last book, Kera became a Crow, and she is the one who is closest to Jace.

Ski Eriksen is our hero, a key member of the Protectors. Jace’s knowledge of all languages will put her in closer contact with the Protectors, helping them translate their many books. In a slow built romance, Jace will learn to control her rages, befriend all the Protectors, and fall in love with Ski. Ski falls hard for Jace, and is instrumental and helping her control her powers.   I loved most of  the Protectors, how they began to care about Jace. Everyone usually fears Jace when she flips into her berserker rages. Keep in mind, all the clans usually hate each other. Most of all I loved the crazy antics of the Crows, as well as the other clans. All the clans are vicious and wild, but we spend time with all the members of the crows, especially Jace, Kera and Erin , not to mention the Protectors and Ravens.

There are two parts of this story, which involves Jace’s ex who was released from jail, after murdering her. The other is about trying to stop a powerful goddess from causing the end of the world. I couldn’t even explain to you about the wild fierce fighting & battles among each other. It is non stop action; fierce and violent; loyal sisters who do anything to protect their own; but most of all it’s like following a wild bunch screaming along the way. I had so much fun reading this, as you couldn’t help laugh at the antics.

The climax was pulse pounding, as all our favorites work together to fight the goddess; but it will take Jace to rise up out of an  impossible situation to help save her sisters. Wow.   Shelley Laurenston, I do not know how you do this. You make us enjoy the crazy, wild, fierce and violent situations; you make us laugh hysterically at the antics of them all; and most of all, you make us love them too.

Reading Order and previous review
1. The Unleashing
2. The Undoing

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Barb’s Review

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Pippa of Lauramore by Shari L. Tapscott – a Review

Pippa of Lauramore by Shari L. Tapscott – a Review

 

Pippa of LauramoreAmazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Princess Pippa of Lauramore is about to turn eighteen, and in honor of the great occasion, her father King Ewan invites thirty princes and lords from kingdoms near and far to compete for Pippa’s hand in marriage.

Arrogant Prince Lionel of Vernow is expected to win the competition handily, but spunky princess Pippa refuses to marry such a pompous man without a fight. When she spies Galinor, the dark-haired, blue-eyed prince of Glendon, she sets out to make him hers—convincing him to join her on a midnight ride away from the festivities.

When King Ewan catches Pippa, he orders her to spend twelve days of confinement in the castle, but she refuses to be contained while her fate is decided without her. Enlisting the help of her childhood friend Archer, master archer of the kingdom, they make a pact to do everything in their power to ensure Galinor’s victory in the marriage games.

But as the games progress and the stakes get higher and higher, Pippa and Archer are forced to not only confront marauding bandits, angry dragons, and King Ewan’s wrath, but also the growing attraction between them…

Review:

Pippa of Lauramore, is book one in The Eldentimber Series by Shari Tapscott.   This is a story that fairy tales are made from.  Our story opens with a celebration of birth for the coming of age Princess Pippa of Lauramore.  Princess Pippa has just turned eighteen, and her father King Ewan has invited thirty eligible Princes to compete in a tournament. The winner of the tournament will receive Pippa’s hand in marriage.  Her family is keen on one such prince – Prince Lionel of Vernow.  But Pippa does not see him the same as her family does.  In the midst of the festivities she knows that she must find the one Prince that is right for her.  There must be one that can and will defeat Prince Lionel for her hand in marriage.   As the guests toast to her eighteenth birthday, Pippa notices the one man that she thinks may just be able to save her.  He is tall, dark and handsome.  He has eyes as blue as a cloudless sky and the face that any artist would love to paint.  His name is Prince Galinor of Glendon.  From the moment they lock eyes Pippa is smitten.  Pippa has decided she wants to leave the festivities and show her new Prince an amazing place.  Just as they are about to leave, the kingdoms Master Archer finds them.  He instructs Pippa that it is not a wise idea to leave the castle walls. But Pippa begs him not to tell her father that she is leaving the castle walls alone with a man. Reluctantly and at Pippa’s urging Archer agrees.    But soon her father finds out and Pippa is punished to her quarters for twelve days.  Punishment means she will miss most of the tournaments festivities and the chance to help her true prince win…  Or will she.

Pippa soon devises a plan to help her Prince Galinor win the tournament. She enlists the help of the one man that has always stood by her side, her longtime friend and mentor, Archer. But the more Archer helps her, the more torn she becomes about the one she has chosen to be her prince.  Her heart begins to realize that the man she may seek quite possibly is the one that has always been there for her.  But they both know that a mere archer can not marry a princess, and so the tournament continues.  Will true love win out or will she be destined to live a life with a prince she does not wish to marry?

Prince Lionel is a cocky, arrogant, brooding prince of man.  He is the character that you will love to hate.  From page one I despised him.  And my feelings towards him did not improve at all throughout the story.  His demeanor is completely off putting and you truly want to see him come to a horrible fate.   Pippa is a young woman, strong willed, witty and headstrong.  She thinks she knows exactly what she wants and does anything in her power to achieve it.  Her character is real and authentic and exactly the type of woman you would want as a friend or for your children to look up to.  She is not afraid to speak her mind in a time when that was unheard of.   Prince Galinor is valiant, handsome and strong. He is the “prince” fairy tales are written about.  He is the one you want to win the heart of young Pippa.  And the one you want to know even more about.   I fell completely head over heels for this young prince.  That is until Archer sauntered (reluctantly) into the picture.  Archer will win you over and leave you begging for more.  And in an amazing and beautiful journey he may just become the true prince Pippa is looking for.

Will Pippa find the prince of her dreams?  Will she end up having to marry the insufferable Prince Lionel?  Will her father allow her to have a marriage based on true love and not the one decided upon by a tournament?  This book is a must read if you want to find out.  This  journey is new and fresh,  the twists and turns are  palpable. 

The authors  writing places you right into the story – it pulls you in and holds you there.  From the main characters to the sub-characters – you want to know it all.  You want the backstory and the future story all at the same time.  This is not your everyday foo foo fairytale – this Princess knows how to go about getting exactly what she wants and she can hold her own with the best of them. But be warned – this book contains magic – and any young girl (or old girl) will get lost in its pages and lose all track of time. I absolutely loved this story from page 1 to the end. Finished it in one day!   It is full of royal regality and reverence.  It places you right in the mix of the tournament and the turmoil.  From kings to princesses, from fairies to dragons it is a pure mix of magic and magnetism. Did I mention the dragons! Swoon!   This is one that I will buy a hard copy of and pass on to my daughter as a true treasure to hold for generations.  And I can barely contain my excitement that this series will continue – as I will continue to follow Mrs Tapscott!

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Author

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