House of Gods (Royal Houses 4) by KA Linde-review tour

House of Gods (Royal Houses 4) by KA Linde-review tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 17 2023

On the other side of a portal, Kerrigan Argon lands in the home of the gods–alone.

She’s lost everything: Her family. Her magic. Her world.

Even her dark Fae prince, Fordham Ollivier, has disappeared. She has no where to turn, and no idea how to survive in this new world.

The first kind face in the crowd gives Kerrigan hope. Until her would-be helpers, kidnap and deliver her into a new kind of hell and the only chance to get home–the gladiator ring.

Win the gladiator tournament and receive a gift from the gods.

Kerrigan is determined to gain that boon to save her people.

•••••••

REVIEW:Fourth book in this amazing series. You won’t really be able to read this book without reading the others first, it will make more sense to read in order.

Book four starts where we left book three (House of Curses) ….

Kerrigan and Ford reemerge from a portal to find out they’ve come out in her mothers land!! (I’d like to say more, but I don’t want to spoil anything)

Then Kerrigan tries fighting her way back to her own realm and people (and that’s when it gets interesting)

If your looking for a recap, it’s best you go back and read through book three (which was what I did) we don’t get bogged down with previous information (which in this case would have been helpful, as it’s been a while since book three was released)

I couldn’t put it down once I started. The action is fast. The words just flow off the page and into a wonderful read. (I’d watch them if ever considered for a series or set of films)

This plays with all of your emotions. We meet new and old friends, new allies are formed. Betrayal/battles/twists and turns. Heartbreaking moments that will have you reaching for the tissues ?and a family reunion that could have gone either way!!

I loved the gladiator battle, very descriptive (almost a Russel Crowe moment) Felt sad that Kerrigan is without her magic at the moment, and you kept hoping she’d find it. But instead we watch as she overcomes her lack of magic, Kerrigan is nothing but resourceful.

The ending came far too quick, and now we have to wait for the next book.

It’s not a cliffhanger ending, but it does set us up for I’m assuming the last battle and book.

And I can’t wait.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
House of Dragons
House of Shadows
House of Curses

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B ?

Follow: Facebook /Twitter /Website /Google Plus / Instagram / Goodreads / BOOKBUB

K.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of the Avoiding Series, Wrights, and more than thirty other novels. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, binge-watching Supernatural, traveling, and dancing in her spare time.

She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband and two super-adorable puppies.

Share

The Vampire’s Hunter (Rogue Brotherhood)by Kait Ballenger-review

The Vampire’s Hunter (Rogue Brotherhood)by Kait Ballenger-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Chapters Indigo-paper /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 18, 2023

Vampire mafia romance like you’ve never seen before! For fans of spicy paranormal romance comes Kait Ballenger’s action-packed Rogue Brotherhood series, featuring this dark, sexy standalone novella.

When human waitress, Dani Harper, escaped her abusive, supernatural ex, she thought she’d never return to the Cosa della notte syndicate, until a twist of fate sends her running back into their vicious, glittering world, and straight into the arms of a wicked vampire, who once broke her heart…

Vampire mafia boss, Corbin Blackwell, is out for revenge against the monstrous vampire who sired him long ago, and with stunningly beautiful Dani playing the role of his fake mistress on his arm, he may just pull this hit off. Except Corbin doesn’t account for the very real feelings he has for Dani, and when push comes to shove, Corbin finds himself forced to choose between the woman he loves, and the plot for revenge which consumes him…

••••

REVIEW: THE VAMPIRE’S HUNTER is a contemporary, adult stand alone, paranormal romance novella in the author’s ROGUE BROTHERHOOD, a spin off, set in the EXECUTION UNDERGROUND world. This is vampire Mafia boss Corbin Blackwell, and waitress Dani Harper’s story line. THE VAMPIRE’S HUNTER can be read as a stand alone, you do not have to have read the previous series.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Corbin and Dani) THE VAMPIRE’S HUNTER follows the search for Lucien, a vampire trafficking humans, a vampire who destroyed Dani’s life. Dani’s brother Quinn works for Execution Underground, and our heroine has experienced with worst of the worse. Hoping to get information on the vampire, Quinn pushes Dani to seek out the one man that controls her heart. Enter vampire Mafia boss and head of the Cosa della note syndicate Corbin Blackwell, and the man with whom Dani has fallen in love. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Corbin and Dani, and the potential fall-out as their need for revenge threatens the life of our story line heroine.

The relationship between Dani and Corbin is one of unrequited love. Dani has been in love with Corbin for as long as she can remember but believes Corbin wants nothing to do with her love. Corbin has loved and lost, and in this refuses to place Dani in the face of danger but their need for revenge against the vampire that destroyed Dani’s life is about to implode, and Corbin is forced to claim Dani for all time. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced Corbin’s right-hand vampire Kharis; Mafia vampire boss Angelo, siren Cassandra, vampire Lucien, as well as Dani’s brother Quinn,.

THE VAMPIRE’S HUNTER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is enchanting and inviting; the romance is spicy; the characters are desperate and wounded.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

BIO: Kait Ballenger is a full-time paranormal romance author, wife, bellydancer, graduate student, and soon-to-be-professor. She is the multi-published, award-winning author of the Execution Underground paranormal romance series. With a B.A in English from Stetson University, Kait is currently earning an M.F.A in Writing. Kait believes anything is possible with hard work and dedication. One day, she hopes to be a bestseller and to see her novels on the big screen. Look for the next two books in her page-turning Execution Underground series: Twilight Hunter, book one (August 2013) and Immortal Hunter, book two (January 2014). For more information, please visit www.kaitballenger.com or follow her on Twitter @kait_ballenger.

Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Share

The Vampire’s Thirst (Blood Coven 4) by TM Smith-review

The Vampire’s Thirst (Blood Coven 4) by TM Smith-review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 31, 2023

When Chiara Lopez was age ten, she was rescued from a fiery car crash by a vampire.

Now, enemies pursue a Firebrand warrior from his realm to Earth where they leave him for dead. Rescuing him, Chiara recognizes Dax as her savior from the crash long ago.

But he’s not the hero she dreamed of her entire life. He’s surly, aggressive, thirsty, and opposed to any relationship. While Dax sabotages their rocky romance, he and Chiara are on the run from his enemies and hers.

••••••

REVIEW:THE VAMPIRE’S THIRST is the fourth instalment in TM Smith’s contemporary, adult BLOOD COVEN erotic, paranormal, fantasy romance series. This is Firebrand Warrior, vampire scion from the Bludclan Mortus, and Chiara Lopez’ story line. THE VAMPIRE’S THIRST can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

SOME BACKGROUND: Thousands of years earlier, a powerful group of witches and warlocks, in an effort to protect the human race, divided the world creating three realms: Earth, Scath and Darque. The Blood Coven series focuses on the fight to keep the worlds physically separated in the face of some powerful people hoping to control one or all. The Aeternals are the overarching collection of breeds and supernatural species that inhabit the Scath and Darque realms, and the Alliance are the group of humans that monitor all supernatural activity on Earth.

Told from numerous third person perspective, following several paths, and a recitation of journal entries, THE VAMPIRE’S THIRST continues to focus on the search for the Blood Coven descendants. Having returned to Earth through a portal from Scath, Firebrand Warrior, vampire Dax has been left for dead by the group known as Arisen Dawn, and with the help of Chiara Lopez ,Dax is mended back to health but Chiara will remind Dax there is a mutual past between herself and the vampire, a past may have triggered the reveal of Chiara’s true nature. Chiara Lopez is a witch, and a direct descendant of the Blood Coven Witches. Trying to protect the woman with whom he will fall in love, Dax refuses to accept they are fated mates, as they journey towards the Firebrand stronghold. Meanwhile, Firebrand Tyr rescues another descendant Jace De Vries, but Jace is determined to find her friend who has been captured by Arisen Dawn.

The relationship between Chiara and Dax is one of rescue and recovery but Dax doesn’t do relationships, and in this, his treatment of Chiara is often heart breaking and sad. Chiara has been in love with Dax since he rescued her years before but Dax is determined to never fall for the woman that calls to his heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

The world building is detailed, complex and multi-layered bouncing between several realms -Earth, Scath and Darque, the past and the present, good and evil, and numerous omniscient points of view. Once again, the Firebrands are but one of the groups searching for the Blood Coven Descendants, in an effort to take control of the portals between all three realms.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting character many of whom we have me in the previous story line. Each has an ongoing story and involvement with the Firebrand Warriors or Arisen Dawn, and with this, the story line continues to be elaborate.

THE VAMPIRE’S THIRST is a story of obsession, power and control, magic and mayhem, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The premise is long, detailed and somewhat complicated; the characters are numerous, energetic and edgy; the romance is provocative and seductive.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Firebrand
The Demon’s Fire
The Satyr’s Guilt

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Social MediaWebsiteFacebookInstagramAmazon Author/

A master’s degree in English and a doctorate in administration led me to education. After retiring from my career as a teacher and principal, I settled in to write something more creative than lesson plans on split infinitives and inner-school memos on noise in the hallway.

My first novel was the romantic mystery comedy romp Affection for Crime. My plans were to make this Maggie Hall book the first in a series about a quirky columnist and her friends and lovers. That may still happen, but interest in a different genre has changed my direction.

I am now living with vampires, demons, ylves, mages, and other magical beings who keep me awake at night with their tales of love and adventure. Taking great interest in their lives, I began a paranormal romance series with alpha males who aren’t always nice and females who have no problem keeping them in line.

I have learned much about the difference between writing a series and writing a stand-alone book. First, get a fantastic writing software program. Second, keep great notes. And third, do not think book one is complete until you have finished book five. These have been hard-learned lessons, but I am a hardheaded author.

Here are more orts, scraps, and fragments from my life. (Thank you, Virginia Woolf and Shakespeare.) I moved from sunny Las Vegas to the less-than-sunny Pacific Northwest. Here I have adventures with my daughter, son-in-law, and two granddaughters who also moved to the area. I also enjoy my membership at Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network (BARN), a local organization that supports the arts and offers classes and events with eleven different studios where a welcoming community of artists praise each other’s efforts. It was at BARN where my critique group began. With equal time given to in-depth comments on each other’s works, snarky remarks, and laughter, we have now been together over five years. (from the Author’s website)

Share

SHADOW MAGIC (Sisters of Magic 1) by Donna Grant -review tour

SHADOW MAGIC (Sisters of Magic 1) by Donna Grant -review tour

ebook FREE for a limited time Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: re-release October 10, 2023

With a past soaked in sin and darkness slowly closing in around him to claim his soul, Drogan only wants to live his life in solitude. Years in the king’s service and his numerous deeds directed by the crown have left Drogan with horrendous nightmares and immeasurable guilt?

Serena is a witch, cursed and forever alone. She accepts her future. Until she meets Drogan. With Drogan a passion deep and unyielding awakens inside her. She is willing to sacrifice herself for his love, but can he put his past to rest and embrace the future?

••••••

REVIEW: SHADOW MAGIC is the first instalment in Donna Grant’s adult SISTERS OF MAGIC historical, paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is Serena of Hawthorne, and Lord Drogan of Wolfglynn.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Serena and Drogan) SHADOW MAGIC follows Serena of Hawthorne, a witch with the ability to ‘see’ the future but a witch whose entire lineage has been cursed, a curse that is threatening the continuation of the line. A vision of approaching evil has Serena desperately trying to convince her friend Maris, and her husband Gerard to run, run in an effort to protect their family the darkness demanding revenge. Enter Lord Drogan of Wolfglynn, best friends with Gerard, and a man who has also been targeted by sins of the past. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Drogan and Serena, and the potential fall-out as Serena believes her time with Drogan is fast approach an end, as the evil takes aim at our story line hero.

The world building reveals the curse that has destroy a long line of witches, and the evil that is determined to take down King Henry’s former knights. Drogan, Gerard and their compatriot Cade has been tasked with protecting King Henry and his men but someone else was determined to take down everyone else.

The relationship between Drogan and Serena is one of mutual attraction but Serena believes she is cursed to lose the man that she loves, and Drogan is forced to face the darkness alone. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Drogan’s friends and fellow knights Cade, Gerard and his wife Maris; commander Grayson; witch Francesca and her mate Phinneas, as well as several people who work at Wolfglynn castle.

SHADOW MAGIC is a slow building story of betrayal and vengeance, madness and retribution; magic and secrets, forgiveness and love. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is fated; the characters are determined and dynamic. SHADOW MAGIC ends on a happily ever after -for now.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK |  NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

Darkest Need (Dark Ones / 1001 Dark Nights) by Rachel Van Dyken

DARKEST NEED (Dark Ones Novella / 1001 Dark Nights ) by Rachel Van Dyken-review & excerpt tour

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2023

I see everything. I feel everything.
I watch people fall in love. I watch them burn with hate, anger, rage, and I see the cycle repeat over and over again. I take it on every night I work at Timber, aka Anubis’s bar in downtown Seattle, and then I help the rest of the immortals keep the very intense balance between Heaven and Earth.

I see everyone’s future but mine, and when I try to look, all I see is darkness, despair, need…

Until she walks into my bar with bruises on her face, getting pulled by one of the lesser demons. I do what any good bartender would do… I beat him within an inch of his life and turn my eyes to her.
By then, it’s too late.
She already has me in her grasp.
A succubus that has no other plan than to suck me clean of every inch of power that’s been bestowed on me by the Heavens.

I never thought my future involved getting kidnapped and tied up or that I’d die by way of sex—then again, maybe that’s for the best. Dying at the hands of my enemy rather than being one more burden to my already mated friends.

After all, giving into one last need before death, while selfish, may be exactly what my darkness means.

My need is great.
And she’s about to find out just how much.

•••••

REVIEW: DARKEST NEED is a contemporary, adult, novella found in Rachel Van Dyken’s DARK ONES paranormal, fantasy series, and a part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights. This is Tarek, werewolf prince, and demon/succubus Lilith’s story line. DARKEST NEED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order to learn about each member of the immortal council.

Told from three first person perspectives (Cassius, Lilith and Tarek) using present day and memories from the past DARKEST NEED focuses on the seduction of our story line hero. Lilith knows what she must do, and Tarek is her target but Tarek for all of the power of a prince quickly discovers that his life is to be forfeited for sins of the past. Lilith and Tarek have history, one that Tarek no longer remembers but it is their history that continues to bind the couple together.

The world building continues to focuses on life and death-someone must die in order for someone to live; sacrifice and survival, blood and memories, gods and goddesses, betrayal and revenge.

The relationship between Tarek and Lilith is one of need: Lilith is to seduce our story line hero, ensuring his death by $ex is one he will never forget. As Lilith ensures a sacrifice in order to live, she will realize that love may be stronger than the need to survive. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied.

Most of the previous story line couples return as secondary and supporting characters. The Fallen Angel Cassius continues to struggle with the life and death cycles, the sacrifices in order to survive, as he watches his friends suffer to keep the world in balance.

DARKEST NEED is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, madness and mayhem, death and resurrection, forgiveness and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is intriguing and engaging; the romance is limited to dreams, sacrifice and acceptance; the characters are magical, powerful and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

________

THE DARK ONES
(Dark Ones Saga 1)
by Rachel Van Dyken
Genre: adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance

Amazon.ca / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ebook FREE at these outlets: Amazon.com / B&N /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 2015

To touch a Dark One is death.
To talk to an immortal is suicide.
Yet, I’ve been marked by both.
A Vampire.
And the King of the immortals.
My life is no longer my own.
And now I know the truth, my life was never mine to begin with.
It was theirs.
It’s always been theirs.

••••••

REVIEW: THE DARK ONES is the first full-length instalment in Rachel Van Dyken’s adult DARK ONES SAGA paranormal/fantasy romance series. This is ancient vampire Ethan, and human Genesis’ story line.

NOTE: There is a prequel novella DARK ORIGINS that explains some of the history but it was either released in a newsletter or part of an anthology.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ethan and Genesis) THE DARK ONES follows in the wake of the immortals choosing a human. It has been fifty years since the immortals have chosen a human female, a female that has been educated in the ways of the supernatural but Genesis will quickly discover that her education had been wrong, misleading and full of lies. Throughout her life Genesis was lead to belief she was never good enough, pretty enough or smart enough to be one of the chosen but when her ‘number was called, Genesis would discover that more than one immortal was willing to claim Genesis as his mate. Enter ancient vampire Ethan, and the man with whom Genesis will fall in love. What ensues is the re-education of our story line heroine, and the potential fall-out as our heroine will discover that to mate an immortal means to live and die precariously at the hands of the people in charge.

The world building introduces the who, how and why of the chosen human females. Genesis comes from a long line of females educated and prepared to be one of the chosen but fifty years has passed, and the last female chosen didn’t survive to her fate. As Genesis, Nathan, and his family of supernaturals struggle to make sense of what happened and why, a fallen angel will reveal the secrets he has kept to protect them all.

The relationship between Ethan and Genesis is that of fated mates. Genesis has been chosen, marked by both vampire and the fallen but in an effort to protect our story line heroine, Ethan will have to claim Genesis to save her life. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Ethan’s family of immortals: werewolf Mason; fallen angel Cassius; sirens Alex and Stephanie; as well as several Archangels. Not everyone who is they claimed to be, and not necessarily of their own choosing.

THE DARK ONES is a story of power and control, death and immortality, betrayal and punishment, madness, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is detailed, complex and enthralling; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are desperate, dynamic and determined.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

Listen, I know I have chains wrapped strategically around my wrists and that every second that goes by, said chains are burning a mark into my skin that may or may not mean I’m about to get completely demolished by a succubus demon.
But this is not how the story starts.
I mean, maybe it’s how it ends since I’ve been in this exact spot for the last two days without food or water, waiting for a rescue from my immortal friends, knowing full well they’re probably all just having sex and enjoying marital bliss without realizing I’m actually missing.
Me.
The manager of the Seattle demon bar, Sin.
Werewolf prince.
All around really upright kind of guy—or so I like to think. But do you know where that got me?
Here.
Chained.
See also: Demon goddess who has not come back to check on me even once and says she wants to kill me via sex.
Bartending is looking great right now. Immortal life in my werewolf clan did not prepare me for this or the fact that saving one succubus would actually turn me into her prey.
She was bruised.
Beaten beyond recognition.
I was going to kill the vampire that attempted to slaughter her, but that’s a longer, more violent story since she ended up doing the deed once she got a bit of my blood. But I did give her water, thinking, wow, I’ve done this person a total solid. I mean, despite the fact that she was pretty. Even her tears were pretty. The bruising and swelling on her face didn’t even hide how beautiful she was—or is.
Maybe my first wrong act was comforting her. Because the minute we touched, her eyes flashed a creepy red, and well…see also actual burning handcuffs around my wrists.
It’s clearly been a fun forty-eight hours. Maybe she’ll make it quick, though a weird part of me kind of wants my last few moments being sucked dry via sex to last for a while, so long that it’s all I focus on, all I care about, all I see.
I see visions of the future, but I never saw this.
So, strap in because I’m sure it’s going to be a great story. I just may not make it all the way to the end with you.

Follow: Website / Facebooks / Goodreads / Twitter /  Instagram

Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.

She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!

Share

COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS by Poppy Ireland-review tour

COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS (Nightshade University 1) by Poppy Ireland

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 5, 2023

Nightshade University was supposed to be a land of opportunity, a haven of knowledge. A prestigious institution catering to the elite Fae of all four courts:

The Dawn Court: Defenders of justice and honor.
The Dusk Court: Agents skilled in secrets and espionage.
The Demon Court: Bringers of chaos, reveling in destruction.
The Moon Court: Mystics wielding celestial magic and divination.

As a freshman, navigating power and politics was not on my syllabus, but now it’s a game I’m forced to play.

At the heart of the intrigue stands Lysander Thorne. Our connection is electric, an attraction that’s as forbidden as it is undeniable. With him, I’m drawn into a world of shifting alliances and treacherous loyalties.

But as I delve deeper, I discover more than just courtly schemes. A darkness looms, one that ties my fate to the very soul of Nightshade University. I might be the key to unearthing a malevolent spirit, but at what cost? My heart, my future… or perhaps even my life?

In a world where secret societies rule, and passion intertwines with politics, trust is a luxury and every decision, a high-stakes gamble.

••••

REVIEW: COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS is the first instalment in Poppy Ireland’s contemporary, new adult NIGHTSHADE UNIVERSITY dark, paranormal, romance series focusing on Lysander Thorne, and eighteen year old, Sarielle Blackwood.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Lysander and Sarielle) COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS follows in the wake of eighteen year old Fae Sarielle Blackwood, and her first few days at Nightshade University. Having been prepared all of her life to be chosen as a member of the Dawn Court, Sarielle will surprise everyone including her family when the blood chooses another Court. Struggling to make sense of her new life, Sarielle is befriended by Lysander Thorne, whose intentions are darker than she could have ever imagined. As Sarielle battles nightmares and visions, Lysander is focuses on claiming Sarielle as his own but all does not go according to plan when Sarielle’s powers begin to manifest, and her true nature makes her a target of the darkness and death.

The world building reveals some of the back story and history of the Nightshade University, and its’ secret cults that worship the dark arts. Sarielle will discover she is not whom or what she thought she should be, and in this, betrayal is paramount at every turn.

The relationship between Sarielle and Lysander is predicated upon a lie. Having been magically ‘chosen’ by the Moon Court, Sarielle is placed in the direct line of fire but it is her history and ancestors that will threaten anyone who comes near. Falling for Lysander was easy but betrayal and vengeance will come at a cost. Having been warned on numerous occasions, Sarielle is torn between her attraction to Lysander, and the fates who want to control her life. The $ex scenes are limited.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and magical secondary and supporting characters, all of whom are members of the Fae courts. We are introduced to Sarielle’s parents, and her brother Rook, and quirky roommate Lirien, who has visions of the future; campus lead Evageline, as well as Lysander’s ‘friend’ Ariya, and his father Caius Thorne. The requisite evil has many faces.

COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS is a story of power and control, chaos and dark magic, betrayal and vengeance, disbelief and deceit. The premise is entertaining and haunting; the characters are animated and spirited; the romance is limited to seduction and betrayal. COURT OF MOONLIGHT AND SHADOWS reads like several more popular and familiar paranormal teen and tween story lines-there is definitely a closeness with its’ recognizable plot lines, as well as the requisite evil villains and oblivious adults. There are several twists and turns, most easily deduced but exciting, none the less.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Poppy Ireland is an author of paranormal and fantasy romance. She is the fictional brainchild of two longtime friends and USA Today Bestselling Authors who like to use their freaky mind melding powers to write spicy romantasy stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re wondering who we are, well, that’s a secret we’ll never tell.

Xoxo, Poppy

Author Links:

https://linktr.ee/poppyirelandbooks

Share

Warrior’s Hope (Dark Protectors 16) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

Warrior’s Hope (Dark Protectors 16) by Rebecca Zanetti-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Chapters Indigo Paper /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 3, 2023

As the only female vampire ever born, and the heir to two powerful immortal families, Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood has always felt the weight of fate and destiny. Now her heart is torn between two men and two different futures. It’s a choice between duty and love, peace and war, with the fate of everyone she loves hanging in the balance.

As the leader of the Kurjan nation, Drake has always known that mating Hope is the best path to avoiding war. He’s counting on her to know the same. . . . Paxton has been Hope’s best friend and protector since they were children. He would kill and die for her without a second thought. In fact, he’s always known that would be his path . . .

With deadly factions at her heels, Hope must decide whom to trust and where her loyalty lies—before the choice is taken away from her

••••

REVIEW:WARRIOR’S HOPE is the sixteenth full length instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS erotic, paranormal/fantasy series. This is Paxton Phoenix, Drake, and Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood’s story line. WARRIOR’S HOPE should not be read as a stand alone. I recommend reading the series in order, or at the very least, this particular arc of the series focusing on the group of Seven beginning with book eight VAMPIRE’S FAITH, as there is an on-going premise throughout. Hope, Phoenix and Drake’s story has been building throughout the series

SOME BACKGROUND: A thousand years earlier, a number of immortal warriors went through a ritual that, if they survived, hardened their bodies against attack, a ritual meant to create a group of Seven known as The Shield. The Shield was created to protect the world from an evil race of vampires known as the Kurjans, their sect group known as the Cysts, and ultimately a rogue warrior once considered a friend- Ulric-a male of immense power. To protect the human race, Ulric was captured, and along with two of the Seven, was encapsulated in one of three spheres for all eternity but the spheres are no longer capable of holding the ‘Seven’, and the warriors have returned to Earth. As the warriors search for the ‘Keys’ to perform the ritual, the ‘Lock’ must be protected in order to take down the evil that is hoping to take over the world.

Told from a number of third person perspectives including Hope, Paxton and Drake, following several intersecting paths WARRIOR’S HOPE focuses on the impending war between the Realm of the supernatural and the Kurjan empire. Someone is determined to take control of the Kurjan empire but he must first set Ulric free. Ulric needs to destroy the Seven to gain his independence in an effort to dismantle and obliterate the Realm but Ulric’s only ally has other plans including claiming Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood as his mate. As the Realm prepares for war, Hope must come to terms with her destiny while Paxton discovers his entire life and history has been predicated upon a lie.

As per my last review, Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood is torn between friendship and love, duty and family as it pertains to her relationship with Paxton Phoenix, and the Kurjan warrior Drake, both young men who have now come into their prime and burgeoning powers. Drake, Paxton and Hope have been dream-walking together for years but betrayal will come at the cost of their friendships, a friendship predicated upon secrets and lies, and the hunt for power. Drake’s connection to the Kurjan and Cysts may be what takes down the Seven, a connection tightly woven with a young female who is purported to be the ‘hope’ of the immortal world.

Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood is desperate to uncover the truth. The direction she must take in an effort to destroy Ulric means there will be a sacrifice: the blood of the Keys, along with the Lock, are prophesized to work together, to merge their powers, to stop Ulric from taking control but someone else has set eyes on the top, and will use any means necessary including destroying family and friends, and the woman he once claimed to love.

WARRIOR’S HOPE is the final chapter in this particular arc of the series focusing on the Seven, Ulric, and Hope Kayrs-Kyllwood but Warrior’s Hope mainly concentrates on the breakdown of friendships, and the lies that will destroy Hope, Paxton and Drake. The secondary and supporting characters are numerous and familiar including the Seven, the Kings and leaders of the supernatural divisions of the Realm, as well as Hope’s parents, Paxton’s father, and Ulric.

Rebecca Zanetti pulls the reader into an action packed story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, deception and double-cross, trust, acceptance, and love. The premise is intriguing, captivating and enthralling; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are desperate, powerful, determined and dynamic.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Fated
Claimed
Tempted
Hunted
Consumed
Provoked
Twisted
Shadowed
Tamed
Marked
Teased
Tricked
Tangled
Talen
Vampire’s Faith
Demon’s Mercy
Vengeance
Alpha’s Promise
Hero’s Haven
Vixen
Guardian’s Grace
Vampire
Rebel’s Karma
Immortal’s Honor
Garrett’s Destiny
A Vampire’s Kiss

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

Website  * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads

Share

Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams – a Review

Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams – a Review

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / Google Play

 

Description:
Kennedy knew challenging the power-players of the supernatural world would come at a cost, but she always thought she’d be the one to pay the price.

When Kennedy dares to open The Rain’s doors to unsanctioned paranorms, she sets off a chain of events that will test her determination like never before. As retribution, the ruthless master vampire, Arcuro, captures one of Kennedy’s closest allies. Despite the advice from those around her, she refuses to let Arcuro’s actions go unanswered.

Kennedy must navigate the politics of the paranormal world to form new alliances, but one tiny misstep could result in disaster, and one small act of indiscretion might reveal feelings Kennedy has tried so hard to ignore. If she wanted to play it safe, she would stay away from Blake and his teasing smiles. Unfortunately, she’ll need his help to have any chance to free her friend.

With doubts chipping away at her confidence and old enemies resurfacing, Kennedy comes up with a risky plan. Can she outwit the cunning master vampire? Or will her resolve to undermine him lead her down a treacherous path, putting The Rain and everyone around her in jeopardy?

 

 

Review:

Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams is the 3rd book in her wonderful Kennedy Rain series. Refresher: Kennedy Rain, our heroine, is in sole control of the Rain Hotel. What makes the Rain Hotel unique?   The hotel is a null zone for paranormals, with a treaty that has been in effect for hundreds of years; a place to recover, be at peace, or just time to relax with no pressure; a werewolf can avoid the full moon or a vampire can see the sun, or recover from an injury. The Werewolves and Vampires, plus some other unknow species take turns to come and stay at the hotel.

Kennedy is still forbidding the werewolves or vampires to enter the Rain Hotel, despite both the Wolves and Vampire leaders being very angry with her.  Kennedy knows that Shelli, the witch and her coven were the ones who killed her parents, and she wants revenge. With the inn still closed, Kennedy realizes she needs to do something to open the hotel, and allows any unsanctioned paranorms that are willing to put their names on a list that she puts up, without the approval the Lehr (or Arcuro). A number of wolves enter the hotel, which sets off a chain of events.

Beside Lehr (Werewolf leader) being angry, it is the ruthless Arcuro (Vampire master) who acts out by capturing Daegen, one of Kennedy’s allies.  Though Jared, Nora, Blake try to tell Kennedy that there is no hope to save Daegen; but she is determined to find a way to save him.  Kennedy will devise a risky plan to meet with old ancient vampires to help kill Arcuro.  Will the plan work?    

When everything falls apart, she finds herself, as well as Christian, in extreme danger, with their lives in jeopardy.  Not only has an old enemy resurfaced, Kennedy will need to be a step ahead to defeat the evil who killed her parents.  Blake will also put himself in danger, when trying to rescue Kennedy at the hands of Arcuro. Can they outwit the nasty master vampire?

Kennedy is also determined to keep her human friends safe, as they have never been aware of the hotel, and the paranormals.  I liked Kennedy, who was a great heroine, as she was as stubborn as ever.  I have hoped at some time in the future, she and Blake might have a possible romance in future books; though the werewolf leader would never allow it.  

What follows is a, tense and exciting story, with Kennedy in the middle of it all. There was so much action from start to finish, I could not put the book down; as it was an edge of your seat thriller.  I do not want to tell too much more, as it would ruin it for you.  As we raced to the climax, with the evil always threatening Kennedy, I really liked the ending and can’t wait for the next book. Fused in Earth and Stone was an excellent addition to this series, which was very well written by Sandy Williams

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review

 

 

Share