Book Review: Garden of Thorns by Dylan J. Silver (The Curse Breaker Book 2)

     The great king of the undead, Vlad, has decided that his youngest sons, Van and Fyr take wives, bear children of their own, then accept the gift of the gods to become undead as well. Only one will become king and only when he defeats Vlad in a battle to the death. However, Van and Fyr have no interest in this path for reasons of their own. Follow the story of Van, Fyr, Vlad, and the house of Ei. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. You may remember two of these characters from book one. One of which played a bigger part than the other, but they were both within it. That isn't to say you need to read these in order. In fact I strongly suggest reading this book before book one. This shows the background of the antagonist in book one and the helpful character for the curse breaker.

    This book doesn't even mention the curse breaker until the epilogue and leads directly into where book one begins. You can read these in order then jump back in time with book two to get this history lesson. It is completely up to you. 

    As with book one all of the characters are humanoid animals and the scenery descriptions are impeccable. You can tell where and with whom you are with as the story progresses, even as it jumps perspectives from one chapter to the next. You can see how the characters are developing and what drove them to the place they were at in book one. 

    While we did not get any further with the storyline we had initially begun in book one I believe this additional insight into the Ourak was helpful to the main plot taking place. 

    This book is not currently on Amazon for some reason. At least not with sale price. If I find out where it is available I will update this. For now, you can check on the Amazon page to see if this status has since changed by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Beyond Blackwall (The Curse Breaker Book 1)

Book Review: A Ghost of a Promise by Kelly Moran (Phantoms Book 1)

     Abby has wanted nothing more her entire life than to inherit the family manor. With her great aunt's passing the opportunity has finally come. Her aunt had long since promised it to her and they used to sit for hours making plans for when Abby would turn the home into a bed and breakfast. However, the reading of the will came as a surprise. She would get the home, but only under the condition she could solve the disappearance of her relative from over a hundred years ago. Deciding to call in a team of paranormal investigators, the Phantoms, may be her only chance to make her dreams a reality. When the team arrives with Jackson the ghosts aren't the only thing getting riled up in this small town. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have already been reading on another series by this author. Unfortunately, that series has not yet been completed. But this one is amazing. Instead of the witches within the other series we have ghosts! No complaints on my end. Otherwise, this book is a completely adorable contemporary romance. Complete with mild possessions!

    In case you haven't gathered, yet, I loved this book. Abby is striving to keep her family home and achieve the dreams she has worked toward her entire life. Meanwhile, Jackson is at a crossroads in his life: to continue with the Phantoms crew and his found family or move on to other things. 

    Jackson is a British/American dual citizen with parent issues. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if there was some kind of spin-off later from this author featuring his parents. He has been with the crew for years but has been contemplating a change of pace. The only problem is nowhere has ever felt like home. With this case he has to deal with something within his own family's history as his ancestor was once betrothed to Abby's. 

    There isn't anything I would change about this book. I loved everything about it from start to finish. The characters are funny, adorable, and sometimes infuriating. The setting is well described. Then there are the ghosts, who have their own personalities and agendas. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Bewitched (Fated Book 1)

Charmed (Fated Book 2)

Give up the Ghost (Phantoms Book 2)

Ghost of You (Phantoms Book 3)

Book Review: Paladin Unbound by Jeff Speight (The Archives of Evelium Tale Book 1)

     Uhmbra the Peacebringer is shunned by society for being a half-orc. Plagued by tragedy as a young boy he sought refuge in a monastery whose monk trained him in the ancient, illegal, art of the Paladin. After achieving silver status Uhmbra leaves the church, becoming a mercenary with a band of trusted allies. When they travel to bid for a contract and are granted it Uhmbra's earlier training is called upon. A dark force is encroaching on Evelium and if he does not stop it his friends will not be the only casualty of this trapped god. 

    I received a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book ties together fantasy and LitRPG well. We start by getting some backstory on the "gods" of this world. Then we fast forward into what is considered present time following a half-orc merc with a secret. This secret ability could have him killed by the king, but he must decide if using these abilities are worth the risk to his life. 

    The main character deals with a lot of loss early on in this book, so try not to get too attached to characters right off the bat. That being said he overcomes it well, while still paying the needed tribute and does not allow this loss to impact additional relationships as the story progresses. 

    I will say that the other characters in the book are oddly understanding of situations. You will see what I mean. I don't know that I would realistically expect most in a position of power to be as understanding as these. I do understand that conflict in this instance would only have drawn out the book. It just didn't seem as realistic because of this. 

    I did enjoy the book and the main characters involved, though. I am sure there will be more exciting adventures to come for this ragtag band of individuals in the future. The setting is amazing and well described, as are the antagonists and battle scenes. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $6.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Colony Collapse by KE Wolfe (The Shattered Stars Book 1)

     A young boy from the ice planet has slowly become friends with the woman from the stars, however, things quickly sour when his father dies. His father held a position of some importance to their people and was the one to initially contact those on other planets. However, after the people of his world have battled the elements on this planet for the last 4 centuries it is hard to trust those from other planets. With the call for help she must decide if the planet is helpable and if so what is the best way to proceed. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is a quick read novella set among the stars. Humans have travelled to far away planets and their descendants have adapted to their new environments. This makes each planet now inhabited almost like a different sub-species. 

    We begin our journey on an ice planet that is frequently ravaged by storms. While everyone can sense these storms and have an internal heat source there is one who "battles" the storms. This man reaches out to those among the stars who in turn send a representative down. She must determine if the planets inhabitants are in need of direct help or if something else can be done. 

    When disaster strikes it is up to the young boy to make way not only for his planet, but for himself as well. While the story was interesting it didn't hold my attention enough to want to continue the series. From what I understand there are additional novellas released to seem almost like seasons and episodes of a TV show. The author mentions a strong love of Star Trek. I can't, personally, say if it bares any resemblance as I have never been a fan. But, I also don't watch much TV. 

    The "young boy" in this book is actually a man. He makes reference to the fact that many on his planet at his age have already long since started families of their own. There is some sex in the book, but it is a far cry from smut, if that is something you are concerned about.  All in all, not a bad read and for someone who is a fan of that TV show they may enjoy it a bit more than I did. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Third Times the Charm by Robert Howell (Dramsmit Childrens Mysteries Book 1)

     Sharron, Wally, and Chip are all orphans to different circumstances, but when their long-lost great-aunt contacts their individual housing situations to regain guardianship they quickly attach to their found family. Wally and Chip are siblings, while Sharron is their cousin. While just getting to be with actual family in a much better living circumstance is great, their futures are far from certain as they discover they are young witches. Not only this, but something or someone has been killing off the Dramsmit's. Can these three untrained witches over-power a dark foe that even the council has been unable to locate? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. It is a great young adult read that is easy to finish in just a few sittings (more it you have adult obligations). While this book is absolutely targeted towards teens any age can enjoy it. I read a few chapters to my kids (until they couldn't sit still anymore) and they enjoyed it. They are 2 and 6. 

    The story combines wiccan knowledge, Harry Potter, and the Hardy Boys along with some other random tidbits that are completely the author's own. Completely enjoyable and had you interested to know what was going to happen in book two as soon as book one was finished. I have since finished book two as I am dreadfully behind on reviews, so you should be seeing it soon. Likely, in the next few days if we're lucky. 

    While the book is primarily from Sharron's point of view, we do see how the others are doing from time to time. The culprit is a mystery until the author wants it to be revealed, although the accomplice is a bit more obvious. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

The Fourth Charm (Dransmit Children Mysteries Book 2)

Book Review: The Pit by Christian Yarnall

     While hiking with her boyfriend in Scotland he and Lauren are captured and forced into a gilded cage, of sorts, known only as The Pit. The Pit has existed as far back as anyone there can remember and is a twisted pleasure of certain individuals on the dark web. Contestants must compete against one another to the death for 3 matches. If you survive all three, you regain your freedom. All that is at stake is your very life. While inside Lauren makes friends with her cell neighbor, Jamie, each other quickly becoming the others primary comfort. Can they both escape? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is sick, twisted, and demented. So, yes, I loved every second of it. Blood, guts, and gruesome deaths. What more could you want in a book? Betrayal? It's got it. Romance? Sure! Twisted endings? Also, yes. 

    Reading this book was easy and fun for me. If you're a bit squeamish be warned. There are some graphic scenes, including rape. 

    While you hope for the best outcome as you read each, steadily more disturbing scene, you already know how it is going to end. It is like watching a car wreck. It is a terrible thing, but you just can't look away. Please, do not take that to mean this book is poorly written. It is far from that. If anything, it will hook you within chapters and not let you go until you know Lauren's fate in detail. 

    I hope to read more from this author in the future, and genuinely hope he has others just as twisted as this book!

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Vevin Song by Jonathan Neves Mayers

     When the lightbirds came to the world humans had to build underwater domes in order to survive. These giant creatures were violent, killing any human they found in the light, but water was able to harm or kill them. Humans have lived in the domes for decades, with only a select few venturing to the surface for small scouting parties. Marla, who was rescued from lightbirds as a baby, has spent all her life that she can remember inside the dome with her adopted brother, mother, and father. Now that she is an adult and has been given a job she loathes she needs some form of escape. This escape is generally a party after work. After one such party Marla sprouts wings from her back and is captured by a ranking official within the dome to be tested on. Her escape to the surface comes with sacrifices and she will never be able to return home. But, there may be something more to the lightbirds than was previously known as she discovers she can communicate with them via their song. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is very much so a Young Adult Fantasy, although the characters are over 18. Personally, I am almost 30 so a 19 or 20 year old is still going to be considered young adult. Open to interpretation on your part for that. The book also has some post-apocalyptic aspects since the book is set after a cataclysmic event (the Vevin's coming to Earth) forced daily life for humans to forever change. 

    We follow Marla as she tries to survive in a job she hates within the dome, through her struggles as she changes, then onto the surface where she must face a whole new set of challenges. Along the way she must give up what family she has left, but gains someone she thought long lost. The reasons behind the long separation aren't revealed for quite a bit of time in the book, but I think the only person oblivious to that reason was Marla herself. That or I have been reading waaaay too many of a certain genre. 

    I have personally never understood societies depicted in books where leaders choose the career path for the citizens. It never makes any sense to me. You are way more likely to do better in a job you enjoy versus a job you hate. Yes, using food as a payment method is a good way to make sure that they absolutely do their assigned roles, and can never exceed a certain hierarchy. Still, it seems like it would only breed dissent. 

    That being said, I completely enjoyed this book and don't have any complaints about it. I look forward to more from this author in the future. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: I’m Not Letting Her Go by Tennille Stephens

     After losing her mother in a car accident Scarlett goes to live with her grandmother and her father, who she barely knows. While he is off on some kind of business Scarlett is adjusting to her new school as a senior. When the schools most popular play-boy sets his sights on her there is nothing she wants more than to get away from him. Except, there is more to Declan under the stand-offish exterior. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. We all know how much I love paranormal romances. I haven't been reading them as often, but they will forever be one of my favorites. This book is a combination of Young Adult Romance and Paranormal. Both are great genres. 

    Not that I am complaining, but I do like to give the disclaimer for those that care, while this is a young adult romance there is sex in the book. The characters are of consenting age and are almost 18 and 18 so it isn't a big deal. But, if that is something that bothers you with young adult books there is your warning. 

    The characters are well developed and it is as easy to get lost in the background story as in the romance that takes place. I really enjoyed the crossing of realms aspect and how everything turned out. I have to admit that the big bad was a bit obvious, but it may not be to everyone. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $18.99 as a paperback by clicking here. I am not sure why the eBook is no longer showing as available and if I am told of another place to get it I will update my page and let you know!

Book Review: Charmed by Kelly Moran (Fated Trilogy Book 2)

     Fiona Galloway has known since birth that she was one of the fated six to break a centuries long curse to restore love to the Galloway and Meath families. Even with all of that time she still isn't ready to accept her fate. When her youngest sister, Kaida, and one of the Meath brothers break the first step of the curse they know that either she or the oldest Galloway are next. While training Fiona lets her guard down with Riley and sparks fly, ending with a Celtic knot on their wrists. Can the pair get past their attitudes and work together to break the next step of the curse, or will they even get the chance with Uncle Greg pursing his own agenda?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was looking forward to Fiona and Riley's story when I read book one. Who doesn't love the redhead with a quick temper who loves to tempt? All of the Regina vibes (Supernatural reference), only much younger. Then there is Riley, who is so adorable and thinks of himself as the weak link in the Meath brothers, although none of them are truly weak. He isn't the bookish type like his younger brother, or the warrior type like his older, but he is all heart and strength for those he loves. 

    The only complaint I have about this book isn't even about this book. It is the simple fact that book three isn't out yet and we don't know when it is going to be out! I need to know what happens next, but fingers crossed it will be sooner rather than later. In the meantime, we do have other, non-paranormal books to enjoy from this author. Well, I don't. I already finished them since I finished this book, but that is beside the point. 

    We have our favorite villain back in book 2 from book 1 and he is still trying his best to thwart the couple's plans. However, Uncle Greg now has some new tricks up his sleeve, and he is not afraid to use them. I am sure you will enjoy this book as much as I did. I will state, however, that you HAVE to read these books in order. Otherwise, you already know what is going to happen in book 1 and where is the fun in that? 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Bewitched (Fated Trilogy Book 1)

A Ghost of a Promise (Phantoms Book 1)

Give up the Ghost (Phantoms Book 2)

Ghost of You (Phantoms Book 3)

Book Review: The Guy Who Accidentally Started the Apocalypse by David Bushman

     When Cameron gave a coupon for a free sub to a homeless man and the self-proclaimed wizard gifted him a wishing-stone in return he thought it was nothing more than the ramblings of a crazy person. But, when he idly wishes to live a life like those in the post-apocalyptic LitRPG he was listening to his wish was granted. Now, most of Earth's population has been decimated by living plants intent to turn those that remain into zombie-like creatures. With the help of a higher sentient being Cameron begins upgrading himself with no real fear of dying, due to respawn abilities. Can the surviving members make a dent in the alien surge to reclaim their homes? 

    I received a copy of this audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I adore this author's writings and was excited to receive this book. The desire to just read this and little else was strong, although I normally read multiple books at once. Still, I haven't had the time to sit and actually write up the review until now, even though the book was finished August 2nd. (Yes, I am the weird person who has a physical notebook filled with the exact dates that I read every book. It dates all the way back to July 2017.) 

    This book is a great combination of the real world LitRPG and VR gaming experience. I haven't read something quite like it within my delves into post-apocalyptic LitRPG and gaming books. I love all of these genres and a mash-up was a yes, please. The author did an amazing job of combining these along with adding in his own personal sense of humor we enjoyed in his other books. 

    Although there is plenty of meat to this story it will absolutely leave you wanting more. Unfortunately, the next book is not out yet and to my knowledge we have not received a pending release date. That being said, there is plenty of action in this book, of all types. 

    The only point of confusion I have in this book is the age of the main character. At the beginning he seems middle aged. While he does receive enhancements throughout the book, I don't know if they ever actually confirmed his age. It did not take anything away from the story by any means, but I was curious. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Darklands Online Book 1

Darklands Online Book 2

Darklands Online Book 3

Darklands Online Book 4

Book Review: Worlds, the King's Pawn by Mike Cahill

 

        A battle between good and evil set among the stars. Follow along as we see the universes most powerful entities fight to do what they feel is best, be that for others or themselves. We gain this knowledge from multiple perspectives over multiple average lifetimes. Who will be the victor and win the prize of the continuation of all existence? 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Normally I love sci-fi books. If you have been here for a while, you know this. A large portion of the books I read have some sci-fi aspect to them. In this case, I found myself struggling to finish the book. There are so many details within the pages that I just felt bogged down and bored. Even in the action phases of the book I felt like I needed to stop myself from almost skimming the book just to be done with it. 

    While most of my reviews are posted to my site, GoodReads, and Amazon along with links in other places this review will only be available on my site per the author's request. When I don't love a book and know it will be a negative review I reach out before the book is finished to give them the option for me to mark the book as a DNF. In this case, I did while reading and he wanted to think on it, but by the time he decided I had already finished the book. So, we compromised, and I agreed to only post the review to my site instead of everywhere. 

    That isn't to say the book is poorly written. A lot of people enjoy being taken in depth with descriptions and details that have little to do with the plot as it makes them feel more immersed within the story. For me, I love details, but not so many that I feel like the story gets lost. The author does a good job of hiding certain aspects of backgrounds from certain characters in a way that is beneficial to the story as a whole. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $7.00 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Cicatrice: New Eyes and Brave by Jo Boyle

    Jamie and Mal were best friends at university, but when Mal abruptly leaves without a word the friendship is seemingly shattered. During the ensuing five years apart, Mal is on the run for her life. No connections can be made or else he might find her and take her captive again. When Mal and Jamie have a chance encounter can she really walk away again, even if she knows it is the only way to keep Jamie safe? 

    I received a paperback copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is amazing. Fast paced, thriller, sex, and plenty of action. If you are of the feign of heart, be warned. I only say this because there is rape and a lot of abuse within these pages as Mal and Jamie go through both their present and past. 

    We jump back and forth between present day and the past while Mal was a captive. We learn how she was trained and the mindset she quickly adopted. I have to say that I am proud of her for everything she endured, and I am surprised she ever let another man touch her, even for information. 

    There isn't anything about this book I would change, although the story is a difficult one. I believe everyone got exactly what they deserved at the end and hope you will enjoy this journey as much as I did. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.37 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Tempus Fugit: The Engagement Ring by Jules X. Perlaski

         In this 'Choose your fate' story you are a college grad who lives in an RV with his best friend. Your friend has discovered a new type of drug and your girlfriend has just broken up with you when you tried to propose. Where will your story go? 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have always loved the Goosebumps books that were choose your fate, however, I didn't enjoy this book so much. I will say that I absolutely read through each of the eight possible paths in order to get as much as I could from this very fast read. 

    The book was not poorly written, by any stretch, but it wasn't something I found myself enjoying or a series I would like to continue in the future. I don't feel like I walked away from the book with a real depth of feeling for any of the characters involved. The series may get better as it progresses, but this will be my stopping place. 

    We "play" as a college graduate who is living in an RV with his best friend who is both a drug addict and seller. After we are dumped by our girlfriend, he tries to convince us to take a drug that allows you to travel in time. The choices you make from that point on are your own. You can give your friend to the authorities, join forces with them, take the drug, don't, and so on. 

    This may be something others would enjoy, personally I just wasn't a huge fan. The author does have a website: playtempusfugit.com 

    If you would like to try this book it is available on Amazon as a paperback for $250 (not sure why that is) by clicking here.