Book Shelf: Truthwitch (The Witchlands #1) by Susan Dennard

In a continent on the edge of war, two witches hold its fate in their hands.

Young witches Safiya and Iseult have a habit of finding trouble. After clashing with a powerful Guildmaster and his ruthless Bloodwitch bodyguard, the friends are forced to flee their home.

Safi must avoid capture at all costs as she's a rare Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lies. Many would kill for her magic, so Safi must keep it hidden - lest she be used in the struggle between empires. And Iseult's true powers are hidden even from herself.

In a chance encounter at Court, Safi meets Prince Merik and makes him a reluctant ally. However, his help may not slow down the Bloodwitch now hot on the girls' heels. All Safi and Iseult want is their freedom, but danger lies ahead. With war coming, treaties breaking and a magical contagion sweeping the land, the friends will have to fight emperors and mercenaries alike. For some will stop at nothing to get their hands on a Truthwitch.

More info on Goodreads......


Review:

Truthwitch is the first novel in Susan Dennard’s latest series, The Witchlands and is a poignant fantasy tale that introduces readers to a dangerous and daring new fantasy world and is perfect for fans of Sarah J Mass, Maria V. Snyder and Marie Rutkoski.

Witches Safiya and Iseult have a habit of finding trouble. With Safi being a rare Truthwitch and Iseult’s true abilities hidden even from herself, the two best friends have learnt to rely on each other above all others, but when a plan to get back money stolen from them goes array, Safi and Iseult find themselves thrust into the middle of a war between the various empires that make up The Witchlands and racing to find a way to stop the empires breaking the decades long truce that stands between them. Court politics, political plans and daring escapes are abound as Safi and Iseult attempt to keep Safi from the hands of those who would use her abilities for their own selfish needs. Alongside the Nubrevan Prince Merik, whose pirate ways and ego grate on Safi, Safi and Iselut begin to discover there are more dangerous plans in motion than they could ever have imagined…..

In the interest of full disclosure, Truthwitch and I didn’t get off to the best start. Despite my excitement to begin reading and all the good things I’d heard, I struggled in the first 100 or so of the story. I can’t pinpoint exactly what it was—the strange names, the complexity of all the lands and peoples we met or all the information Dennard thrust at you straight away, but something left me with a bit of a sour taste in my mouth. And then I began to enjoy the story more…..

Somewhere around halfway my interest began to pique and I began to find myself interested and invested more with the characters. There’s a lot to take in within Truthwitch and I’ll admit I don’t fully grasp everything we’re introduced too, but there’s no denying the world Susan Dennard has created is very vast and unique. Told in varying POV, Truthwitch introduces readers to a number of different characters, all from different walks of life and places within the story. Safi, Iseult and Merik are important voices, but as is Aedunen, whose role as a Bloodwitch and purpose within the story is still very shrouded in mystery to me. I can see him as a potential ally and even love interest for Iseult down the track.

I loved that Safi and Iseult were both such strong, capable young woman. Their closeness and dedication to each other is commendable; with the love shared between these two Threadsisters undeniable. It’s always fabulous seeing a fantasy novel follow strong female personalities capable of sparing, fighting and engaging with their enemies as well as any man!

Filled with magical abilities, elements, warring empires, brave young woman and even some dashing romance, Truthwitch is a danger filled tale that kicks off The Witchlands series well, and despite its rocky start, leaves me very much ready to see what happens to the characters next!


Rating:
Source: Sent for review by publisher (Thank you Kirsty!)
Publisher: Tor- Pan Macmillan Imprint
Format: Paperback
Australian RRP: $16.99
Release Date: 23rd February, 2016
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Despite getting off to a slow start, I enjoyed Truthwitch and am planning to begin the second book shortly.

Owl Post #111

Inspired by The Story Siren's In My Mailbox, Owl Post allows us bloggers to showcase the books we've bought, won or received throughout the week and is hosted by Brodie over at Eleusinian Mysteries. We all know that the Owl Post is the fastest way to send and receive mail and they certainly make me happy every time they drop a book off.  

Welcome to another Owl Post! I got some great review books this week :)

   For Review:

From Harper Collins:

- Wayfarer by Alexandra Bracken

SQUEE! I'm soooooo excited to read Wayfarer! I loved Passenger last year and can't wait to start this. I may have to be my next read :)

 

....Thanks so much Holly!

________________________________

 

From HarlequinTEEN Australia:

- The Flame Never Dies by Rachel Vincent

I love Rachel Vincent's YA books. I'm yet to read any of her adult stuff, but her YA always rocks!

 

- Long Way Home by Katie McGarry

Katie McGarry can do no wrong in my eyes! Her books are brilliant and I can't wait to read this one!

 

....Thank you Vanessa!

 

 

And that's me!

Shocking, I know, I didn't buy anything this week. LOL

What did the owls bring YOU?

 

 

 

 

Book Shelf: Shield of Winter (Psy-Changeling #13) by Nalini Singh

Assassin. Soldier. Arrow. That is who Vasic is, who he will always be. His soul drenched in blood, his conscience heavy with the weight of all he’s done, he exists in the shadows, far from the hope his people can almost touch—if only they do not first drown in the murderous insanity of a lethal contagion. To stop the wave of death, Vasic must complete the simplest and most difficult mission of his life.

For if the Psy race is to survive, the empaths must wake…

Having rebuilt her life after medical “treatment” that violated her mind and sought to stifle her abilities, Ivy should have run from the black-clad Arrow with eyes of winter frost. But Ivy Jane has never done what she should. Now, she'll fight for her people, and for this Arrow who stands as her living shield, yet believes he is beyond redemption. But as the world turns to screaming crimson, even Ivy’s fierce will may not be enough to save Vasic from the cold darkness…

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Shields of Winter is the stellar 13th instalment in Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling series and is a deeply sensual and wonderfully written tale of romance, action and excitement.

Vasic is an Arrow; a highly dangerous solider and assassin. Known for his declining mental stability, Vasic has slowly become numb to life. And with his past littered with death and his hands covered in blood, those who know him know it’s only a matter of time before he unravels for good. Until he and the some of the other Arrows are asked to watch over a group of Empaths whose abilities may make them the Psy’s only hope to stop the deadly mental infection that is infecting their minds and turning them into mindless killers. Ivy Jane is one of those empaths; a beautiful and kind woman who has suffered for the abilities she could never before understand due to the Psy Council’s rules. Now tasked with possibly saving her race, Ivy can’t help but be drawn to the stoic Vasic who cares for her in his own unique way. Adamant that Vasic isn’t the hopeless case he believes himself to be, Ivy is determined to do everything she can to help save her people…..as well as save Vasic from himself.

Having never really felt one way or another of Vasic, I was surprised by how deeply I enjoyed this novel. Initially I started the book with the intention of quickly reading a few chapters, but then found myself utterly unwilling to put the novel down—that’s how entranced I quickly became with Vasic and Ivy and the delicious connection they share.

Both were strong characters with likable personalities and different strengths and weaknesses that I felt Nalini Singh explored well. As an empath, Ivy was understandably a caring person who truly wanted to help her people. Vasic surprised me with the depth of feeling hidden behind his cold exterior; a depth and truth Ivy slowly brought out. I ended up adoring these characters a lot more than I expected I would and thought they were a wonderful couple.

The attraction between them simmered from the moment they met and I loved seeing Vasic begin to experience desire and want. He’d never before craved affection and touch the way he did once he met Ivy and I loved seeing how she brought this all out in him. There’s a real sensuality to witnessing someone experience these kinds of desires for the first time and I loved that Nalini Singh explored Vasic and Ivy the way she did. It was sexy, sweet and endearing.

As with every other Psy-Changeling novel, Shields of Winter switches back and forth predominately between Vasic and Ivy’s POV’s but also allows us to see chapters from Kaleb, Sahara and Sasha; detailing a very well rounded view, not so much of the overall story, but the Net’s ongoing collapse. Seeing the importance of the empaths in this novel made me smile and think back to the very first novel where Sasha was deemed so very flawed for being an empath. Now the only hope the Psy have is to rely on the very individuals they spurned and ostracized. It’s a fitting kind of irony.

Shields of Winter marks another continuing development in the story arc of this series and Nalini Singh doesn’t disappoint. You’d think that after 13th books, she may have lost her edge, but this is never the case as each book continues to be as good, if not better than all the ones before! Highly enjoyable—I’m ready to begin the next!

Rating:
Source: I bought from The Book Depository
Publisher: Berkley
Format: Paperback
Release Date: June 3rd 2014
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: Shield of Winter is one of my fave books in this series. I loved Vasic and Ivy and can't wait for more in this series!

Blog Tour: Undeniable Temptation by Eden Summers- Giveaway and Promo

I'm ecstatic to be taking part in the Blog Tour for Undeniable Temptation by Eden Summers thanks to Spunky N Sassy Promotions. Undeniable Temptation marks the final novel in Summers Reckless Beat series and is perfect for fans of Kylie Scott's Stage Dive series.

____________________________

Haunted by a kiss.

With his destructive marriage behind him, Ryan Bennett can no longer deny his insatiable attraction to the one woman in control of his future. He needs her. Craves her. She’s the only glimpse of happiness through the building drama in his life and yet one drunken kiss has pushed her further away.

Tormented by what’s at stake.

Leah Gorman’s management contract states she can never act on her feelings for any members of the Reckless Beat band but Ryan has always owned her heart. No matter how long he’s held her captive with his deep soul and easy friendship, he’s off limits. End of story. If only her heart would get the memo. She can’t resist him. Even when their attraction gets in the way of her job.

The price of love is high. Is it worth the cost?

With Leah’s career on the line and Ryan’s reputation in tatters, ignoring their attraction may prove safer than risking everything they hold dear. They have to decide what matters most—their years of friendship, or a chance at love that will destroy them both if they can’t make it work.

Add on Goodreads or check out my 5 star review!

Purchase:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Bookworld

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Bookworld

 

Eden Summers is a bestselling author of contemporary romance with a side of sizzle and sarcasm.

She lives in Australia with a young family who are well aware she's circling the drain of insanity. Eden can't resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face.

Visit Eden:

Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon 
 Website | Reader's Group

Series Reading Order:

Blind Attraction (Mitch)

Passionate Addiction (Blake)

Reckless Weekend (Reckless Beat in Vegas)

Undesired Lust (Mason)

Sultry Groove (Sean)

Reckless Rendezvous (Leah)

Undeniable Temptation (Ryan)

a Rafflecopter giveaway Written by a true blue Aussie author, I LOVE this series and highly recommend it!

Book Shelf: Undeniable Temptation (Reckless Beat #5) by Eden Summers

Haunted by a kiss.

With his destructive marriage behind him, Ryan Bennett can no longer deny his insatiable attraction to the one woman in control of his future. He needs her. Craves her. She’s the only glimpse of happiness through the building drama in his life and yet one drunken kiss has pushed her further away.

Tormented by what’s at stake.

Leah Gorman’s management contract states she can never act on her feelings for any members of the Reckless Beat band but Ryan has always owned her heart. No matter how long he’s held her captive with his deep soul and easy friendship, he’s off limits. End of story. If only her heart would get the memo. She can’t resist him. Even when their attraction gets in the way of her job.

The price of love is high. Is it worth the cost?

With Leah’s career on the line and Ryan’s reputation in tatters, ignoring their attraction may prove safer than risking everything they hold dear. They have to decide what matters most—their years of friendship, or a chance at love that will destroy them both if they can’t make it work.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Undeniable Temptation is the absolutely brilliant conclusion to the Reckless Beat series by Eden Summers and is an incredibly sexy, heart-warming and emotional read that is filled with all the sensuality, humour and friendship that make this series great!

Ryan Bennett was blindsided when his wife served him with divorce papers, but getting out of his loveless marriage has been a blessing in disguise; allowing him to finally acknowledge the raging attraction he feels for his band manager and best friend, the woman who has held is heart for years. Leah Gorman has been haunted by the kiss she shared with Ryan after he discovered his estranged wife’s plans for divorce, but can’t help the way she feels about the man she’s been in love with for years. It’s hard enough facing the backlash that comes from being connected to someone in the public eye, but with Leah’s management contract stipulating against an intimate relationship with a client, Leah and Ryan could be over before they begin if Leah’s bosses discover the connection between them. Will Ryan and Leah be able to have a future, or will work commitments and Ryan’s past keep them apart forever?

Having fallen in love with the series a little bit more with each and every novel, I was absolutely thrilled with this ending to the Reckless Beat series. I have loved reading about these characters and watching them fall in love with each novel and was very happy with the way in which Edden Summers chose to conclude the series—it couldn’t have been more perfect in my eyes.

Undeniable Temptation is the story most fans, like myself, have been waiting for—Ryan and Leah’s story. Finally. And boy does it entertain. Long awaited, Undeniable Temptation is Leah and Ryan at their best. I loved them before, but I love them even more after this story. Leah and Ryan just go so well. There’s chemistry, attraction and a lovely foundation of friendship. Summers has built them up for so long and us readers have just been dying to see the final result….

I mean honestly….Leah is a strong, capable and successful businesswoman who manages one of the biggest bands in the world and manages to keep all five men in check; a feat that isn’t always easy with Mason Lynch involved. But she does it, while managing to remain composed and poised—that’s a strong woman right there. And Ryan? Ryan was just the perfect gentleman….with Summers giving him a shakeup in this novel and allowing readers to see another side to Ryan Bennett. It was wonderful seeing him admit how he felt about Leah and finally acknowledge that she was the one for him—and then go for it; wholeheartedly and one hundred percent.

Sensual and thrilling, Undeniable Temptation saw all out favourite characters back with the Reckless Beat guys helping and supporting Ryan and Leah like never before. Mason proves again he’s more on point than people give him credit for as the adorable relationship he has with Leah stands out too in this instalment.

Ending the series in perfect fashion, Undeniable Temptation is a fabulous addition to a series that has only gotten better with every book. Eden Summers has won a fan in me with Reckless Beat! I can’t wait to see what she releases next!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Spunky N Sassy Promotions and the Eden Summers (Thank you ladies!)
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: January 16th 2017
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Bookworld
Final Thoughts: LOVE this ending and looking forward to reading more from Eden Summers in the near future!

Waiting on Wednesday #165

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking The Spine where you can spotlight an upcoming release that you're eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm waiting on.....  

The Black Witch by Laurie Forest

Releases on: May 2nd 2017
Add on Goodreads!

 

 

A Great Winged One will soon arise and cast his fearsome shadow upon the land. And just as Night slays Day, and Day slays Night, so also shall another Black Witch rise to meet him, her powers vast beyond imagining.

So foretells the greatest prophecy of the Gardnerian mages. Carnissa Gardner, the last prophesied Black Witch, drove back the enemy forces and saved her people during the Realm War. Now a new evil is on the horizon, and her granddaughter, Elloren, is believed to be Carnissa’s heir—but while she is the absolute image of her famous grandmother, Elloren is utterly devoid of power in a society that prizes magical ability above nearly all else.

When she is granted the opportunity to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming an apothecary, Elloren is eager to join her brothers at the prestigious Verpax University and finally embrace a destiny of her own, free from the shadow of her grandmother’s legacy. But she soon realizes that the University, which admits all manner of peoples—including the fire-wielding, winged Icarals, the sworn enemies of her people—is an even more treacherous place for the granddaughter of the Black Witch.

 

Thoughts:

Okay, so I'm vein enough to admit that the first thing that caught my attention about this book was this cover--simple, but beautifully appealing, but after reading The Black Witch's description, I'm thoroughly invested in reading this book. It sounds sooooo awesome!

 

What do you think of The Black Witch? Do you like the sound of it as much as me?

And what are you waiting on this week?

 

 

Book Shelf: Wicked Secrets by L.M. Fry

When Emily Brent, a 15-year-old city girl with a sarcastic edge, moves to the remote town of Carrsville Oklahoma, ghostly visions of a teenage girl haunt her day and night.

The visions are a warning against the dark secrets of Carrsville's past.

The clock is ticking, and Emily has to find the truth before she becomes the town's next victim.


More info on Goodreads......



Review:

Wicked Secrets is a creepy supernatural standalone tale by L.M. Fry perfect for those looking for an easy to read and enjoyable tale.

The last thing fifteen year old Emily Brent wants to do is move to the small town of Carrsville Oklahoma but when her dad gets a job opportunity he can’t pass up that’s exactly what they do. Though she finds herself haunted by strange visions and ghostly apparitions upon arrival in Carrsville, Emily slowly begins to warm to her new home thanks to her adoring Aunt Mille and the attention of Irish hottie Liam. Yet when the town’s eccentric benefactor Mr Frank begins to display unwanted attention towards her, the strange occurrences start to get worse and Emily must discover the truth about Carrsville before she finds herself its next victim.

Having really loved L.M. Fry’s steampunk series, The Trinity Key Trilogy I was excited to read Wicked Secrets and found it to be a sharp, mysterious and spooky read. Told through the eyes of fifteen year old Emily, Wicked Secrets blends a delightful amount of teen angst, romance, mystery and ghostly hauntings into its tale. Fry makes it clear from early on that all is not right with Carrsville, but you never know exactly what until towards the end of the tale when all is finally revealed.

Emily was a main character I found easy to follow. I didn’t care much for her life prior to moving to Carrsville and was happy to see her cut ties. L.M. Fry explores some interesting relationships between Emily and her father, Emily and her Aunt Millie and of course her romance with Liam. I enjoyed these and thought they were sweet.

Wicked Secrets straddles the line that focuses on the paranormal aspect of the story and Emily’s everyday teenage life well. It’s not until towards the end of the story that you discover exactly what is going on, but I appreciated the build-up and liked reading about the rest of Emily’s world in the interim.

Ending well and concluding the story in a manner befitting a standalone tale, Wicked Secrets is a quaint read for those who love ghostly hauntings and tales with just the perfect amount of creep factor. Sad and emotional at times, Wicked Secrets ends on a good note. As someone who enjoys her books, I'm definitely eager to see what L.M. Fry releases next!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by the author (Thank you L.M!)
Publisher: ELEAH Enterprises
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: May 26th 2016
Purchase: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: Perfect for those who love their ghostly tales.....

 

Owl Post #110

Inspired by The Story Siren's In My Mailbox, Owl Post allows us bloggers to showcase the books we've bought, won or received throughout the week and is hosted by Brodie over at Eleusinian Mysteries. We all know that the Owl Post is the fastest way to send and receive mail and they certainly make me happy every time they drop a book off.  

Hello lovelies and welcome to another Owl Post! I've got some fab books to share with this week :)

For Review:

From Harper Collins Australia:

- Lady Helen and the Dark Days Pact by Alison Goodman

I absolutly LOVEED Lady Helen and The Dark Days Club and am so excited to read it's sequel. It's one of my most anticipated reads of 2017 and I'm both excited and scared to read it. I'll probably read it sooner rather than later because I simply can't help myself :)

 

....Thank you Holly!

_______________________________________

 

From Simon & Schuster:

- How Not to Fall in Love, Actually by Catherine Bennetto
Hadn't heard of this book before this turned up on my doorstep. I may read it one day as it looks light and fun.

.....Thank you guys!
________________________________________

From Scholastic Australia:
- Take the Key and Lock Her Up by Ally Carter
This is the third and final book in the Embassy Row series and I'm keen to see how it will all end.

- Shooting Stars by Brian Falkner
Another story I hadn't heard of before receiving a copy, I'm not sure what to make of this one; the description doesn't give too much away, but I'm always up for giving something a go.

...Thank you guys!

I Bought:

 - Cream of the Crop by Alice Clayton
- Roman Crazy by Alice Clayton & Nina Bocci
I absolutelu LOVE Alice Clayton and with the Books by the Bridge author event just around the corner, these were the only two books of hers I didn't have physical copies of. Now read and set to meet her in February :)

And that's me!
What did the owls bring YOU this week?

 

Book Shelf: The Darkest Touch (Lords of the Underworld #11) by Gena Showalter

From New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter comes the long-awaited story of Torin, the most dangerous Lord of the Underworld yet…

Fierce immortal warrior. Host to the demon of Disease. Torin’s every touch causes sickness and death—and a worldwide plague. Carnal pleasure is utterly forbidden, and though he has always overcome temptation with an iron will, his control is about to shatter.

She is Keeley Cael. The Red Queen. When the powerful beauty with shocking vulnerabilities escapes from a centuries-long imprisonment, the desire that simmers between her and Torin is scorching. His touch could mean the end for her, but resisting her is the hardest battle he’s ever fought—and the only battle he fears he can’t win.
 
More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

As the 11th installment in the Lords of the Underworld series, The Darkest Touch by Gena Showalter is a fast paced and sensual story that finally tells the story of Torin, a fierce and sarcastic warrior who houses the demon of Disease.

Having been privy to Torin's pain and anguish over bringing nothing but pain and illness to those he touches, it was incredibly beautiful to finally see Torin meet the one woman ready to risk it all to be with him. A powerful fighter known as the Red Queen, Keeleycael is known for her formable powers, incredible temper and ability to flay her enemies without breaking a sweat. And yet, when she sets out to get revenge on Torin for the loss of a close friend, this powerful immortal with surprising vulnerabilities gets the surprise of her life when Torin calls to her in a way she never expected. Soon setting out to win his heart, Keeley is in for the fight of her life if she want's to sway Torin from his biggest enemy....himself.

Ahhhh, Torin. You poor, sweet tormented soul you! Anyone who knows me and knows I'm a fan of this series will tell you Torin has been my number one guy...ever since we first met him in The Darkest Night and he set out to annoy Maddox. Ever since that one moment, I've loved seeing whispers of Torin and learning his ailments. Being the Keeper of Disease has brought nothing but torment and anguish to Torins life. He's yearned for the comfort and connection with a woman, any woman for centuries and as an immortal virgin unable to experience skin to skin touch without spreading disease and illness at every turn Torin has had it tough. He hasn't been able to touch his friends or those he loves for centuries. Has never dared touch someone if he could help it....until Keeley.

Known as the Red Queen, Keeleycael easily cuts through Torin's bull and fears with his desire and need for her; seeing him throw many of his reservations out the window. Though he doesn't want to hurt her, and hates it when he does, she makes him want something more for the first real time in his life, and that's so very wonderful.

Gena Showalter has written a superb partner for Torin in the form of Keeley. Having been through so much over the centuries, Keeley has known pain and betrayal, and certainly has trust issues, but she's willing to lay it all on the line for Torin. Honestly, this girl is really kick-ass, but she's also actually really sweet. She wants to be a part of a family and makes it obvious she's happy to be a part of his as she immerses herself into the Lords lives. She's also someone who goes toe to toe with Torin in terms of wit, cheek and sarcasm. She doesn't let him get away with anything word wise and I love that.

Their physical relationship is as sexy and sensual as any of the other couples, although they have their own unique obstacles to overcome, i.e. Torin's inability to touch without spreading disease, something Showalter explores excellently throughout the story. This is one hang-up not easily fixed, and I think readers will be happy with the resolution Showalter brings to the table.

With all the other fabulous characters still in the story and continuing on with their lives, there are three prominent stories and three couples I can't wait to read about; Cameo and Lazarus, Galen and Honey and of course Gilly and William. I have a feeling Gena Showalter has other stories up her sleeve where this series is concerned; something I certainly won't regret getting the chance to read, but these are the three I want to read the most! I foresee something in the future with Pandora and even Hades one day, but for now I hope to see these books as soon as possible!

Lavished in action, adventure and wonderful romance, The Darkest Touch is another seriously perfect Lords of the Underworld book and I'm itching to get my hands on the next story in the series as soon as possible.
 
Rating:
Source: I bought from The Book Depository
Publisher: Harlequin Books
Format: Paperback
Release Date: November 25th 2014
Purchase: Bookworld | Booktopia | The Book Depository | Amazon
Final Thoughts: So glad to see Torin get his own HEA--I've been waiting since the very first book.

Blog Tour: Queen of Chaos by Kat Ross- Excerpt & Giveaway

Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours, I'm excited to be participating in the blog tour for Queen of Chaos by Kat Ross today. Finishing up The Fourth Element trilogy in a sense (Kat Ross has plans to write more!) Queen of Chaos concludes a series I've absolutely LOVED and can't recommend enough!

_________________________________

 

Persepolae has fallen.

 

Karnopolis has burned.

As the dark forces of the Undead sweep across what remains of the empire, Nazafareen must obey the summons of a demon queen to save Darius’s father, Victor. Burdened with a power she doesn’t understand and can barely control, Nazafareen embarks on a perilous journey through the shadowlands to the House-Behind-the-Veil. But what awaits her there is worse than she ever imagined…

A thousand leagues away, Tijah leads a group of children on a desperate mission to rescue the prisoners at Gorgon-e Gaz, the stronghold where the oldest daēvas are kept. To get there, they must cross the Great Salt Plain, a parched ruin occupied by the armies of the night. A chance encounter adds a ghost from the past to their number. But will they arrive in time to avert a massacre?
And in the House-Behind-the-Veil, Balthazar and the Prophet Zarathustra discover that they have more in common than meets the eye. But is it enough to redeem the necromancer’s bloodstained soul and thwart his mistress’s plans?

As a final showdown looms with Queen Neblis, the truth of the daēvas’ origins is revealed and three worlds collide in this thrilling conclusion to the Fourth Element series.

Add on Goodreads or check out my 5 star review!

Purchase:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

Begin the series FREE!

 

From The Midnight Sea.....

My eyes flew open at the crack of dawn. I groaned and rubbed my forehead. My scalp tingled, an icy, unpleasant sensation. I knew right away where Darius was and what he was doing. It was another side effect of the bond, I'd discovered. I could feel his heart beating. I knew that one of his boots was too tight. I could shut my eyes and tell you exactly where he was, even if he was hundreds of leagues away.

Why had no one told me what it would be like? I supposed Tijah did, but this was much worse than I'd expected. Much, much worse.

I threw on my new scarlet tunic and marched down to the river. Tendrils of mist swirled through the dead reeds at the edge. It was late autumn and the air had a dank chill that promised snow.

My daēva stood there, stripped to the waist, pouring water over his head with his right hand. He wore a gold faravahar on a chain around his neck, its eagle wings spread wide. His left arm lay at his side, grey and dead. I stared at his shoulder, at the juncture where smooth skin met rough. His Druj curse.

It slowed me for a moment, seeing that pathetic arm, but I wasn't yet ready to forgive him for waking me. That was my excuse, anyway. Of course, what really angered me was the terrible realization that I was burdened with a sorrow not my own, but that bled me nonetheless. What really angered me was him—everything about him.

He was calmer this morning, but I wasn't. I stopped about twenty feet away. He didn’t turn around although he knew I was there.

"It's nice that you're so pious," I said. "But don't you think it's a little early to be down here performing the morning rites?"

He paused, then dumped the last of the water from the bowl. I felt the cold trickle down my spine and my lips tightened.

"I was taught by the magi to come at first light," Darius said. "Did you expect to sleep in? I'm afraid that's not the way it works for Water Dogs." He smiled, and we both knew it was fake. "I'm sorry if I've offended you in some way."

I stared at him, at the dark hair plastered across his forehead, his stubborn mouth. He looked so human. And yet there was something in the way Darius held himself, perfectly at ease in his own skin. Still but coiled, like the wolves I'd seen in the mountains.

"You haven't offended me in the least," I said. "I suppose you need the blessing more than I do."

I spun on my heel and walked away, knowing I had wounded him. A small stab to my own heart. And I felt slightly ashamed. But that wasn't the end of it. Then I felt his satisfaction at my shame. And my own anger that he knew and was glad.

And then his amusement at my anger!

I stalked off, determined to think nothing, to feel nothing, ever again.

If only it were that easy.

Want more? Get your copy of the first book in The Fourth Element series today!

 

Kat Ross worked as a journalist at the United Nations for ten years before happily falling back into what she likes best: making stuff up. She lives in Westchester with her kid and a few sleepy cats. Kat is also the author of the dystopian thriller Some Fine Day (Skyscape, 2014), about a world where the sea levels have risen sixty meters. She loves magic, monsters and doomsday scenarios. Preferably with mutants.

Visit Kat:

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

 

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Book Shelf: Queen of Chaos (The Fourth Element #3) by Kat Ross

Persepolae has fallen.

Karnopolis has burned.

As the dark forces of the Undead sweep across what remains of the empire, Nazafareen must obey the summons of a demon queen to save Darius's father, Victor. Burdened with a power she doesn't understand and can barely control, Nazafareen embarks on a perilous journey through the shadowlands to the House-Behind-the-Veil. But what awaits her there is worse than she ever imagined…

A thousand leagues away, Tijah leads a group of children on a desperate mission to rescue the prisoners at Gorgon-e Gaz, the stronghold where the oldest daēvas are kept. To get there, they must cross the Great Salt Plain, a parched ruin occupied by the armies of the night. A chance encounter adds a ghost from the past to their number. But will they arrive in time to avert a massacre?

And in the House-Behind-the-Veil, Balthazar and the Prophet Zarathustra discover that they have more in common than meets the eye. But is it enough to redeem the necromancer's bloodstained soul and thwart his mistress's plans?

As a final showdown looms with Queen Neblis, the truth of the daēvas' origins is revealed and three worlds collide in this thrilling conclusion to the Fourth Element series.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

Queen of Chaos marks the thrilling end to the Fourth Element trilogy by Kat Ross featuring Nazafareen and Darius; a starkly exciting and passionate fantasy series that has been an incredible adventure from beginning to end, with all the action, romance and daring danger you could possibly want!

After the conclusion of the last novel, an army of Undead warriors sweep across the land, while Alexander and his Persian army march towards Balicia. Nazafareen, Darius and a few of their allies race into the shadowlands in an effort to find Neblis and rescue Darius’s father Victor. Stopping Nablis is an impossible task as her demons and necromancers continue to lay siege to the innocents they encounter. As Nazafareen faces untold horrors and traps along the way, Tijah leads a group of daēva children on a desperate mission to rescue the prisoners of Gorgon-e Gaz—the prison where the oldest and strongest of the daēvas’s are held. Both missions seem unconceivable, but with the final showdown against Neblis looming, Nazafareen and those she loves must do the impossible as the truth about the daēva's  origins are discovered and the end looms near…..

One of the best fantasy series I’ve read in a long time, the Fourth Element has been an incredible reading experience and doesn’t disappoint readers with its exhilarating ending! Kat Ross continues her detailed, expressive and tangable writing and world building to tell Nazafareen’s final chapter. Secrets are revealed and surprises change the course of the story with Ross keeping her readers on their toes all the way to the end.

Unlike the other novels that were told through the eyes of primarily Nazafareen, Queen of Chaos unfolds through Nazafareen, Tijah, Lysandros and occasionally Balthasar’s POV’s. Considering that all of the characters are at different places and are not often together, this allows for a very well rounded view of what is happening across the land as everyone embarks on different missions or fights against Neblis.

I really have loved reading this series and have fallen in love with all the characters. Obviously Nazafareen and Darius have been strong fixtures, but in this instalment, I have come to care very deeply for Tijah, Lysandros and oddly enough Balthasar. Tijah is such a strong young woman and with her new connection to a daēva that shall not be named for the fear of spoilers, I just know there’s a whole range of options out there for them and potential storylines. While Lysandros continues to entertain with his cheeky nature, Balthasar, who started out as a villain and who grew so much in Queen of Chaos is on the path to redemption continued to intrigue me and has me excited that he can turn all the terrible things he's done around.

As someone who has really adored reading each book in this incredible series, I was so very sorry to know it was coming to an end, so Kat Ross absolutely made my day by indicating at the end of this novel that she still has plans to explore the series and world further. Whether it’s a spin–off series focusing around Tijah and a few of the other characters or a strict 4th book in The Fourth Element series, I for one will be doing cartwheels when the book comes out.

Fast paced, exciting and so brilliantly told, Queen of Chaos features an unexpected ending that leaves me ready for more of some of the minor characters and anticipating whatever Kat Ross does next!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by Xpresso Book Tours and the author (Thank you ladies!)
Publisher: Acorn
Format: Kindle ecopy
Release Date: January 18th 2017
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Final Thoughts: Loved this book--as always with this series! Can't wait to see what Kat Ross releases next!

Waiting on Wednesday #164

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking The Spine where you can spotlight an upcoming release that you're eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm waiting on.....  

House of Furies by Madeleine Roux

Releases on: May 30th 2017

Add on Goodreads!

 

An all-new gothic horror series from the New York Times bestselling author of Asylum.

After escaping a harsh school where punishment was the lesson of the day, seventeen-year-old Louisa Ditton is thrilled to find employment as a maid at a boarding house. But soon after her arrival at Coldthistle House, Louisa begins to realize that the house’s mysterious owner, Mr. Morningside, is providing much more than lodging for his guests. Far from a place of rest, the house is a place of judgment, and Mr. Morningside and his unusual staff are meant to execute their own justice on those who are past being saved.

Louisa begins to fear for a young man named Lee who is not like the other guests. He is charismatic and kind, and Louisa knows that it may be up to her to save him from an untimely judgment. But in this house of distortions and lies, how can Louisa be sure whom to trust?

Featuring stunning interior illustrations from artist Iris Compiet, plus photo-collages that bring Coldthistle House to chilling life, House of Furies invites readers to a world where the line between monsters and men is ghostly thin.  

 

Thoughts:

Sometimes you just need a good spooky, ghostly tale and I'm very impressed by the sound of House of Furies. It sounds like something right up my alley and I'm really hoping this book lives up to it's premise.

 

What do you think of House of Furies? Is it something YOU'D like to read?

And what are YOU waiting on this week?

 

 

Book Shelf: The Trouble with Falling (The Trouble Series #4) by Rochelle Morgan

After the heart-shattering ending of her first serious relationship, eighteen-year-old Sophie has sworn off love. Now that school is behind her, she plans to travel the world and form as few attachments as possible. The only exception: Lex, the artist on the other end of the Internet who chats to her almost every day. A guy she can never lose--since she doesn't actually have him to begin with.

Sophie's plan can start as soon as she's faked her way through her sister's wedding. Pretending to be happy and excited for the next week or two should be easy, right? But that was before Caleb walked onto the scene ... Best man to Sophie's almost-brother-in-law, Caleb is infuriatingly friendly and determined to get a real smile out of Sophie. Forced together through dance classes and wedding-related disasters, Sophie is determined not to like him. And terrified when she ends up failing.

Then Lex suggests he and Sophie should meet, and all Sophie's careful plans for the future begin to unravel. Now the girl who was never meant to fall for anyone must figure out what to do with the two guys tugging at her heart.

More info on Goodreads.....


Review:

The Trouble with Falling is the fourth book in Rachel Morgan’s Trouble series, written under the pen name Rochelle Morgan, and is another delightful clean YA romance sure to please readers with its endearing romance and adorable plotline.

Eighteen year old Sophie has sworn of love after her first serious relationship ended in tragedy. Planning on travelling now that school is finished, Sophie has only a few things that make her smile in life including Lex, the artist on the other side of the internet she’s been communicating with for two years and the only person who seems to get Sophie. Planting a smile on her face and pretending to be happy for her sister’s wedding should be easy, right? Wrong! Enter Caleb, the best man and someone who is way too happy for Sophie’s liking….too bad he seems determined to make her smile. Falling for Caleb would be a terrible idea, especially when Sophie thinks she’s reluctantly in love with Lex. Determined to keep Caleb at a distance, will Sophie find herself falling in love a second time? Or will her fears see her lose her chance at happiness?

I have to say, I really have enjoyed reading this series. Rochelle Morgan has never failed to entertain me with each story and The Trouble with Falling is no exception. Easy to read, The Trouble with Falling, is fun, light-hearted and wonderfully romantic. The chemistry between Sophie and her love interest is sweet and endearing and manages to have you eagerly reading. It’s easy to get swept up into this quick romance and lost in the characters.

Sophie was a strong personality who had a lot of issues. Her painful history had left a scar on her, but it was lovely seeing Rochelle Morgan develop her and allow her to grow and change. Sophie comes to some strong realizations in this novel that allow her to finally begin to heal and find happiness. There’s a lot of authenticity to Sophie—how many teenagers are sullen and withdrawn due to heartbreak and loss? Too many to count. And through Sophie, Morgan highlights how important it is to let go of guilt and move on….

And don’t even get me started on Caleb….he was just too cute for words and such a breath of fresh air with his kind, friendly nature that really complimented Sophie and helped bring her back to life. Rochelle Morgan knows how to write delectable love interests and incredibly sweet, but electric romances.

Highly enjoyable, The Trouble with Falling, and the whole Trouble series in general, is something I highly recommend and have no doubt you’ll fall for also!

Rating:
Source: Sent for review by author (Thank you Rachel!)
Format: Kindle ebook
Release Date: October 18th 2016
Purchase: The Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Final Thoughts: A fun and entertaining read, The Trouble with Falling can definitely be read as a standalone or alongside the rest of this delectable contemporary series.