October 2024 Book Reviews
RATING: 5 STARS
A secret society was established to control the world of dream walkers. The dreamscape world's most wealthy/powerful families control the committee. They made a decision years ago that instilled a rage in someone they betrayed; killing someone ignited the need for revenge and set a trajectory for taking the lives of those who were behind the betrayal and the killing.
Ashlin (Ash) is a 21-year-old who hasn't figured out her purpose in life. She lives with her uncle who is a pediatrician, he has raised her since she was a little girl. A year ago, she discovered a power she never knew existed "dreamwalking". She has kept it a secret from everyone including her uncle; It's a power she wishes she never had and affects her everyday life. Instead of being well rested, she ends up in other dreamers' nightmares trying to save them from their worst fears. Everything changes in her life the moment she stumbles upon other dream walkers. It starts a cycle of events that uncovers a deep dark secret that was better left buried.
I loved reading this book; it's an original fantasy set in a world that most people don't explore. Dreamwalking is a beautiful yet scary thing, you can enter people's dreams on a whim, but you invade their privacy when you do. I loved the characters the author introduced throughout the story, especially T.J. He is so sweet and has a wonderful charming positive attitude to life. He wasn't dealt the best hand, but he still looks at life as a gift. He is quirky, funny, and caring. He cares for those he doesn't know and more so for those he does. Everyone needs a T.J. by their side.
The author Nicole Aisling did a fantastic job writing this book, I had a hard time putting it down. It's an interesting fantasy novel with a twist, you knew something was amidst, but you didn't know what. This is labeled as Dreamscapers Book 1 so I am assuming there are more to come, and I can't wait to read them. I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers who are looking for originality in their next book.
RATING: 5 STARS
A world where a war caused the one realm of Eguina to split into two, separated by the Feral Sea. The aftermath created two realms Nighthold where the Fae reside and Cloudrum where the Sorcerers, Lamina, and Lycan reside.
What Lies Beyond the Realms introduces Lyra, a 17-year-old girl whose life has never been easy. Her stepbrother constantly abuses her, and everyone, including her mother, turns a blind eye. Everything in her life changes when she encounters a mysterious man at a dinner party that she is instantly drawn to. Before exploring the connection, she is taken from her home to the Lycan realm to be a guest at a ceremony. After traumatic events occur that cause a stain on her already complicated life she is thrust into a world of mystery and secrets that she has to unravel. She must rely on the mysterious guest from the dinner party to aid in her quest for answers after he rescues her and saves her from more pain that couldn't have been erased.
The book is well-written and has exceptional detail giving the reader full access to the world the author created. The main characters are the perfect addition to the story, Nyx although incredibly attractive is the most powerful Fae in existence, and Lyra although life gave her a terrible hand, is strong and resilient ready to take on what life throws her way. The characters mold perfectly together and complement each other's strengths and weaknesses.
I love this book so much that I had a hard time putting it down and kept telling myself one more chapter, it won't take me that long to read. Before I knew it, it was 2 am and I had to be up at 8 am so I sadly had to finish the chapter and go to bed. The author Ashley R. O'Donovan did a fantastic job at introducing and describing a magical world riddled with magical creatures. My favorite realm is Nighthold the Fae world, to be fair who doesn't love the world of Fae, it's beautiful, mysterious, and full of beautiful landscapes that could take your breath away with one look. The landscape matches the Fae they are known for their beauty and elegance. What Lies Beyond the Realms is a fantastic read that's full of mystery, magic, secrets, betrayal, lies, greed, and spicy romance. If you love a book that is a dark fantasy/romance, I highly recommend reading this book.
RATING: 5 STARS
A world where darkness tore them apart, deciding the fate of future generations. A love gone sour due to greed for power, and senseless acts of evil that changed everyone's destiny. Ancient magic has awakened, causing the darkness to ignite seeking the power for themselves they will stop at nothing to obtain it.
Simone a young witch, owns a shop that supplies other witches with the things they need to cast spells and brew potions. Her life has been quiet since the death of a loved one, drawn to a thrift store she meets a brooding man who awakens an ancient power hidden away for protection. The man who has an effect on every aspect of her is named Connor a hellhound whose best friend is a fallen angel. Finding herself in dangerous situations to get answers for a past murder, Connor continuously shows up to whisk her away from a danger that lurks behind every corner searching for her. Once a hatred between the bonded pair turns into something more as they divulge deeper into a mystery that puts everyone around her including herself in danger.
When I first read this book, I thought the main characters were childish, but as I started reading further along, I understood that they weren't childish they just enjoyed a friendly banter. I started to fall in love with the book and the characters introduced especially a certain fallen angel that has a bad reputation. The author did a fantastic job of putting so much into one book, you have humor, secrets, magic, romance, and evil. I loved that while the worst was happening, they could still joke to lighten the mood. I related to Simone a lot because I love friendly banter and making jokes in a situation to ease the tension. Sarah Zolton Arthur created loveable characters that anyone can relate to, and she did a fantastic job of setting the mood as the story divulged deeper into the mystery surrounding Simone and her past.
RATING: 5 STARS
Book 3 continues the story of Kyllan, Rendon, Jules, and Azaelia. It gives you a more in-depth knowledge of what is happening in the present-day world while Kyllan is in the ancient kingdom for part of the book. You learn more about what Favian and his ranger friends are doing to help combat the king and it gives you glimpses into what Elowyn is doing while using her magic.
This book is a darker part of the story, the king is doing everything in his power to eliminate the moonborn, the baroness is killing or torturing people, and the sorcerers are putting spells on everyone to repeal the dance magic done in book 1. Kyllan returns to his world with his companions after having a vision quickly realizing that the world is far worse than when they started. They have more than one mission to uphold now that the king is trying to control everyone and create an army.
I enjoyed reading this book, I love the turn it took. It shows that greedy people who have power will do anything to hold on to that power. It also shows that when people are pushed into a corner to control, they fight tooth and nail to break free from that control. It was well written; the world-building and details are spectacular. It's almost like you are there.
RATING: 5 STARS
Rome entered a dark era the moment Nero became emperor. His cruelty and brutality were unmatched. A new religion, Christianity, had risen in the Roman Empire, and Nero set out to destroy those who worshipped their one God. Homes were being raided, spies were conducting business, and friends were turning on each other. No one wanted to face the wrath bestowed on the Roman people, causing secrecy to become the new normal.
Phosa and Phena are sisters living in a time when the “mad” Emperor rules with an iron fist. They have converted to Christianity and must stay hidden to avoid execution. During the day they help their uncle run the stall, selling fresh produce and bread. At night they return to their rundown apartment where their servant, who stayed after their father's death caters to them. Once a week they host secret meetings for Christians who seek to congregate and talk about Jesus and his teachings. Everything changes when they are betrayed, and forced to live in exile until someone points them in the direction of a Jewish moneylender. Their lives change as Phena becomes engaged to the moneylender and Phosa starts to fall for Simon.
The author did a fantastic job of creating a surreal experience as the sisters navigate their newfound faith and the uncertain darkness surrounding Rome. You can feel the fear and anxiety that Phosa experienced as her life changed drastically. She starts to question her faith and where she stands in life as darkness envelops her after being betrayed. The story focuses more on Phosa instead of Phena, Phena is the older sister who is quick-witted and determined. She hardly falters and is headstrong in her faith and what she is destined to do. Phena is better at hiding her emotions and thoughts, Phosa is an open book that has a hard time suppressing her feelings.
The story started slow, planting the seed for what was to come as the story transpired. The author Hazel Dains did a fantastic job at depicting Rome at a time when a cruel Emperor ruled. I enjoyed reading Seven Hills One Light, I can’t wait to read more of Hazel Dains' books in the future.
RATING: 5 STARS
What Beats Within the Tunnels continues the story of Lyra after she is taken to the "hive" in the Lamina Realm to get ready for the blood moon, to fulfill the prophecy that was told before she was born. Things have taken a dramatic turn after what transpired with Samuel in Tempest Moon. Nyx has kept secrets from her betraying her trust. She has chosen to walk away and follow a new path with a new companion. This companion has volunteered himself to train and teach her, her Fae magic. He follows her into an unknown land keen on protecting her from things she turns a blind eye to.
The book is well written, Ashley O'Donovan did a fantastic job of continuing the story flawlessly. Lyra is starting to become strong and reliant on herself as she learns to control her emotions and magic. Once a girl etched in fear, has become resilient in her task to save the realms. She begins to see a new side to Colton, trying her hardest to let Nyx go. She just has one problem; she has to choose the one who is the light if she chooses wrong the darkness will consume her.
I love this series so much; I am so unbelievably excited for book 3. I'm sure it will be a fantastic read and end to a wonderful series. I just want to say that I am team Nyx, I can't help it maybe I am blinded by the "bad boy". There is just something about Colton that doesn't sit right with me, maybe he is too good to be true. I don't know what it is, but I hope Lyra gets the happy end she deserves, and I am hoping she chooses Nyx, we shall see.
RATING: 5 STARS
Long ago, a war took place against the Gods. The gods were cruel and controlling and decided the fate of the world on a whim. The Gods had created the guardians, but quickly, their creation turned against them after realizing how cruel the Gods truly were. Offering their aid after the elf and man created an alliance to oppose the Gods. Through this alliance, the guardians, elves, and men created the Nacusti.
Zakolor a 17-year-old boy is as ordinary as they come. He is unathletic, has no magic to claim, and is destined to take over his father's smithy. Regardless of the areas he lacks every year he continues to go to the scout's "test" in the hope that he will be noticed and asked to join the war. This year a noble has taken the place of the usual scout. The noble is searching for someone lost long ago whose destiny is to fight back the darkness that is starting to take over and kill all life in its wake. He is looking for the last living Nacusti and he is not the only one. After a chaotic night, Zakolor is thrown into a world he could have only dreamed of. The only problem? Everyone wants him and the enemy will stop at nothing to have him.
J.R. Douglas did a fantastic job creating a beautiful, detailed world riddled with mystery and powerful magic. Zakolor may be young, but he has decided to take on a huge responsibility. He wants to become powerful and lead an adventurous life. His ancestors may have hidden from the war, but he chose to be different wanting to be on the front line, confronting evil and the darkness killing magic in its path.
I enjoyed reading Zakolor and diving into the world of magic, mystery, power, and secrets. I am excited to continue the story in J.R. Douglas's second book The Black Caladrius.
RATING: 5 STARS
Wow! The last book in the series had so much to offer when completing the story. This was a fantastic series, and I enjoyed reading every page.
Book 4 creates the head-to-head battle between the king's "army" and Kyllan's resistance. The book enters the world of the present celestial realm where the king is going mad and following only the baroness' plans. They are creating an undead army, and he is set to destroy the world to rid it of magic by taking out the elven moon. Things change for some of the king's allies when they realize the lengths he will go to destroy magic including the celestial realm. Unlikely foes band together to save the world from the king and his undead.
I loved this book; it complimented the series so well. I loved the war and unlikely alliances behind the mad king's back. I loved the characters that came into play while they were learning new magic from the ancient ones. I enjoyed the introduction of the beasts and the alliance they created with fellow beasts who went into solitude when the world started turning dark. This series is one of my favorites, it is well-written, and the characters are fantastic.
RATING: 5 STARS
A story that takes place in Munich Germany at a time when the Americans had entered the war following Pearl Harbor and Jews were being pulled from the Ghettos and sent to concentration camps. Propaganda in Germany is in full swing and anyone against them is considered an enemy, especially Germans who harbor Jews.
Hidden in the Roof introduces Adelaide, her husband George, and their three children Elise, Frankie, and Greta. They live in a beautiful house in Munich and George is a high-ranking SS officer. Adelaide learns that her husband is hiding secrets about Jews, especially Jewish children, she wants to do something to save Jewish people from the evil that has Germans in a chokehold. She does something drastic that if revealed would put everyone she loves life at risk, but it would be worse to step aside and do nothing.
This book is beautifully written, it's the first book in a long time to bring me to tears throughout the story. You feel the emotions the characters feel, I couldn't imagine living the life Adelaide was living. The fear, anxiety, heartbreak, and anger that she felt on a day-to-day basis trying to save the people that Nazi Germany set out to destroy is truly heroic and awe-inspiring. She became a hero when her fellow neighbors needed someone the most. The story showcases resilience, passion, raw emotions, and devotion. The author Katie John is a fantastic writer, everything fits together perfectly creating a well-thought-out emotional historical fiction set in a time when Nazi Germany was at its most powerful.
RATING: 5 STARS
Eguina, a realm slowly being encased in darkness; Lyra a beautiful dark enchantress destined to be queen of Cloudrum. Her fate had been sealed before she was born; a prophecy destined her with Nyx. After being betrayed, she falls in love with Colton. A gentle soul much like her own, who loves creatures and is a fierce protector. With the prophecy looming at the forefront of her mind, she is afraid to admit her feelings. She is trying to do what is right by the realms even if it means she must pick the one she is destined to be with (Nyx) over her love (Colton).
I loved the woman Lyra has become throughout the book. Once an unconfident, scared, alone, and naive girl transformed into a beautiful dark magic-wielding powerful enchantress destined to rule. She learned how to fight, stand up for herself, love, and trust herself. Her growth is absolutely beautiful and awe-inspiring.
The author has written a beautiful book three, I was instantly hooked the moment I read the first page. Her attention to detail and world-building is unmatched. She created fierce, strong, resilient, and loveable characters that fit together like puzzle pieces. To say I have fallen in love with this series is an understatement. I now have to find a way to fill the void; I was not ready for the series to end. Ashley R. O'Donovan you are a fantastic author, and it has been an absolute pleasure reading What Lies Beyond the Realms series.
RATING: 5 STARS
A girl betrayed by her father, a vampire who set his sights on a human long ago.
Henry an ancient vampire that's been around for millennia is ruthless, cunning, and unforgiving. His second in command, Ryan is almost identical they complement each other on and off the battlefield. Once enemies turned friends control a highly skilled coven that is always prepared for war.
Ivy a human with a fire no one can extinguish, has been sold to a ruthless man who is rumored to be worse than a womanizer. Her father threw her to the wolves to save his business from collapsing. She fights every inch of the way, never letting up and never showing weakness.
Henry quickly realizes there is more to Ivy than it seems, behind all the sass and resilience something else is there that refuses to come to the surface. While they are learning how to "deal" with each other an enemy that has been plotting for centuries emerges from the shadows throwing the vampire world into chaos.
I loved reading A Debt of Darkness and how spicy it was. The author did a fantastic job displaying a dominant and submissive relationship down to self-care afterward. The connection between Henry and Ivy is unmatched, they are made for each other in mind, body, & soul. I adore Ivy's character; her life was anything but pleasant, but even in the face of death her resilience never faltered. She would either get through the storm or she would die trying.
C.J. Holmes is a fantastic author, and I can't wait to read more of her books in the future. I highly recommend this book to those who love spicy dark romance with a dominant and submissive relationship.