Review: The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid Book 2) by Lyndsey Lewellen

About the Book

Brave the Plex. Unleash the stone. Embrace your destiny.

Freshly freed from an earth-dwelling monster, Juniper Conway is stuck with a promise she never intended to make. But if rescuing Plex City from a deadly nano drug is what she vowed, it’s what she’ll do.

Miles of wasteland stretch between Juniper and the domed city. In the Texas Outer Grid, following a tribe of whalers seems to be her best bet at surviving the chaotic storms. But when the nomadic tribes prove just as dangerous as the Grid itself, Juniper realizes her streak of bad luck is far from over.

Only her shipping crew friends can help her through the waste and into the Plex. When the crier stone guiding her mission only shows her fragmented steps, Juniper will need more than the stone around her neck and a halfhearted promise to make it out alive.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

What an epic sequel to The Chaos Grid! This high-stakes story exceeded all my expectations! I was hooked from the very first sentence and flew through the pages. The lightning-fast pace had me catching my breath as I tried to keep up!

The worldbuilding in this series is fantastic! As a lifelong Texas native, it’s been really interesting to see this possible future! Slightly terrifying too, lol!

I loved how, despite all the dangerous and crazy things Juna encountered, she still trusted God and His plans. She might not have understood why He was calling her to do it, but she knew there was a purpose to it all. I absolutely loved seeing that kind of strong faith!

This is one of the most imaginative dystopias that I’ve read. If you’re a fan of this genre, pick up a copy of this series! You won’t be disappointed. Be sure to start with book one.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Warsafe by Lauren Smyth

About the Book

Play. Win. Survive.

There’s one building on her island that Halley has never visited: the Mercenary House. Perched atop a mountain, surrounded by unnaturally evergreen foliage, the House is rumored to be a breeding ground for criminals. Mercenaries are liars, cheats, spies . . . and maybe, depending on who you ask, killers.

At the Warsafe headquarters in Seattle, Roscoe is beta testing the company’s new video game. It’s her job to track down glitches—but something is different about this one. Lurking behind the lines of malfunctioning code is a secret that threatens to drag her deeper into the game, forcing her to put her life on the line if she ever wants to come home.

Worlds collide as Roscoe teams up with Halley to uncover the island’s secret and expose Warsafe’s designs. But some mysteries are better left unsolved. As traitor after so-called traitor is revealed to be on their side, they begin to wonder: Could Warsafe’s mission be critical enough to justify its cruelty?

Amazon / Enclave Publishing Store / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! This book was fantastic! Where do I even begin? It's a thrill ride from start to finish. We're thrown right into the story, and I was instantly intrigued and invested. I was glued to the pages and reading as fast as I could. I didn't want to put the book down for anything, but when I inevitably had to, it was constantly on my mind.

The world-building was great! Very believable! It was so immersive, like I could just step through the pages and enter the world myself.

There are several different POVs. When there are multiple perspectives like that, I'm usually drawn to one more so than the others, but I enjoyed them all equally here. I really liked the characters and enjoyed getting to know them and seeing things through their unique viewpoints.

I'm a big gamer, so all of the video game stuff was really interesting to me! I was definitely shocked by some of the turn of events. It kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat.

This was an incredibly compelling and unputdownable read! I loved it and highly recommend it! Smyth is a very talented author, and I'm looking forward to whatever she writes next.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: Master of Memories by Lani Forbes

About the Book

In a grim not-so-distant future where debt and drugs run rampant, Margot Azenari studies memory editing alongside the offspring of the rich and famous. She dreams of erasing the bad memories from her childhood-of her father's involvement with the Vibora drug cartel and her mother's struggle with addiction. Margot makes plans to escape the pain of her past, but her plans go awry when her mentor, Dr. Xander, asks for her help with a top-secret project.

Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.

Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.

Or if they can trust each other.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Quill & Flame Publishing / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

“We can’t change yesterday, and we have no idea what tomorrow will ask of us. All we have is now, and now is everything.”

What a stunning story! Thought-provoking and incredibly relevant to our time right now, I could hardly put it down. I finished it in record time.

I was transported inside the pages of this vibrant and dangerous world. The worldbuilding was excellent, and the memory editing technology was fascinating and slightly scary.

I liked Margot right from the start. I admired how resilient and kind she was despite all the things she had gone through. I loved watching her journey and her character growth.

I appreciated the lighter moments amidst the serious subject matter. The fake dating angle was a lot of fun.

This book has left a lasting impression on me. I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I loved that even though this book deals with some hard and serious topics, it also showed that there is light and hope too. I can’t recommend it highly enough. I loved it.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Master of Memories by Lani Forbes

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Master of Memories by Lani Forbes. I'm really enjoying it so far.

About the Book

In a grim not-so-distant future where debt and drugs run rampant, Margot Azenari studies memory editing alongside the offspring of the rich and famous. She dreams of erasing the bad memories from her childhood-of her father's involvement with the Vibora drug cartel and her mother's struggle with addiction. Margot makes plans to escape the pain of her past, but her plans go awry when her mentor, Dr. Xander, asks for her help with a top-secret project.

Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.

Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.

Or if they can trust each other.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

November 2096,

Washington, D.C.

They say that memories make us who we are, and if that's true, I'm definitely screwed. I've spent most of my life running from a past that should sentence me to a life like my mother's. But our pasts no longer have to dictate our futures, not when we have the technology to alter them.

Friday 56

I pretend to focus on my work, but his words swirl around in my head. A larger, scarier monster than even my memories threatens to rip its way through my chest. My shoulders almost shake with the effort of keeping it restrained, of holding back the intensity of whatever it is I'm feeling.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Andromache by L.E. Richmond

About the Book
Some lives are valuable. But none are sacred.

The nation once known as the United States of America has fallen. On the West Coast, five cities collectively known as Cinq battle rampant poverty and disease. On the East Coast, the wealthy, technologically-advanced Federation’s human population is nearly extinct. A treaty between the two nations guarantees Western brides in exchange for Eastern technology.

When Andromache Kanoska is chosen to go East to wed a nobleman and bear his children, her greatest fear is that her infertility will be discovered. Her only chance of protection is to marry the soon-to-be Elector, Denzel Xavier.

While competing in challenges designed to determine if she is worthy to become the next Eastern Consort, Andromache learns a terrible secret. But the people in power are those responsible. And the only person able to make a difference is a man whom she is unsure whether to trust.

Will she risk exposure to protect others whose lives are regarded as expendable? Or will she choose to save herself at any cost?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y'all! I loved this book! I'm a big fan of dystopias, and this is one of the best I've read. It's reminiscent of some of the greats, yet unique in its own way. It's fast-paced, exciting, and impossible to put down.

This is not a light read. It deals with some serious subjects. There were times when it almost made me cry. And yet, it was also so full of hope. It had such a great message. And I know I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come.

This book is full of great characters. I admired Andi's bravery and strength. The fact that she never gave up and was always looking out for others was very inspiring. I also really liked Heath, Bella, and Xavier.

The worldbuilding was excellent. Detailed and immersive, yet never overwhelming.

I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to these characters, so the ending felt a little abrupt, but other than that, this was an absolutely stellar read! It was exciting, thought-provoking, impactful, and inspiring. This book would be perfect for fans of The Selection, Hunger Games, and Matched.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

A couple of my favorite quotes: “Every life is precious. And if we say otherwise, we are using the exact same logic as the people who believe that you and I don’t deserve the air we breathe.” 

"If we are the handiwork of some Cosmic Artist, are we not all worthwhile because we bear His fingerprints?"

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid #2) by Lyndsey Lewellen

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Crier Stone (The Chaos Grid #2) by Lyndsey Lewellen releasing July 8. I loved the first book, The Chaos Grid, so I was ecstatic when I heard that there was gonna be a sequel! 

About the Book

Brave the Plex. Unleash the stone. Embrace your destiny.

Freshly freed from an earth-dwelling monster, Juniper Conway is stuck with a promise she never intended to make. But if rescuing Plex City from a deadly nano drug is what she vowed, it’s what she’ll do.

Miles of wasteland stretch between Juniper and the domed city. In the Texas Outer Grid, following a tribe of whalers seems to be her best bet at surviving the chaotic storms. But when the nomadic tribes prove just as dangerous as the Grid itself, Juniper realizes her streak of bad luck is far from over.

Only her shipping crew friends can help her through the waste and into the Plex. When the crier stone guiding her mission only shows her fragmented steps, Juniper will need more than the stone around her neck and a halfhearted promise to make it out alive.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Echo Nova by Clint Hall

About the Book
Dash Keane is about to become the biggest star in history.

As a poor teenager living in the Dregs, Dash Keane can only escape his dismal reality by competing in illegal rooftop races and staying up late to watch the timenet with his younger brother.

When there is an opportunity to participate in a competition set thousands of years in the past, he uses his rooftop racer skills to catch the eye of Mr. Myrtrym, head of entertainment for the massive Dominus Corporation.

It is the chance of a lifetime when Dominus Corp. hires Dash to be a timestar—the focus of his own series in which he must survive some of the most dangerous periods in history, including the Cretaceous period, feudal Japan, the Wild West, and the Golden Age of Piracy.

But when empathy for the people of the past conflicts with the desires of his new employer, he must decide whether the price of fame is worth it, a decision that may cost him everything.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Enclave Publishing / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Time once lost, cannot be regained.

Y’all! This book was so good! There was never a dull moment in this action-packed thrill ride. I was racing through the pages as fast as I could. I was invested in every heart-pounding moment.

The worldbuilding was great. It was so cool! I felt like I was completely immersed in the story. Like I was right there in the middle of things alongside Dash. And I found myself losing track of time while I was reading.

I thought the whole concept of the timestream, timenet, and timestars was really interesting. And the science behind time travel was fascinating. I’ve never heard it explained that way before, but it made perfect sense. And it was really cool seeing all the different time periods that Dash visited.

While Dash was impulsive and a bit stubborn at times, he was an endearing and likeable hero. I loved his tenacity and admired his bravery. I loved the supportive relationship between him and his brother Knox, and I liked seeing the strong bond of friendship between him and Garon.

There were some bumps along the way, which is putting it mildly, but I really enjoyed watching Dash's growth throughout the book. He faced so many tests and trials, but it was captivating following his journey.

I didn’t want this book to end! It was perfectly paced and an absolute blast to read. It wasn’t all fun and games, though, as it delved into some timely topics, which I really appreciated. Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it! Fans of high-stakes science fiction are sure to devour it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes

About the Book

Some viruses go after the body. But the Nightmare Virus goes after the mind.

When dream technology goes wrong, a virus spreads across the globe, trapping people in a universal dreamscape. They call it the Nightmare Virus.

Cain Cross is determined to find a cure . . . if he can decipher his brother’s chicken-scratch formula notes. But when he gets infected, he has only 22 days until he’s trapped in the mental prison forever. Now, every time he falls asleep, he must fight in a Nightmare Arena until he earns his freedom to live in the “new world” that exists only in the mind.

Then he finds a way to manipulate the Nightmare—to change it by mere thought.

Forced to navigate a world of nightbeasts, mistblades, and half-truths, Cain turns his focus to survival. When the Emperor offers him a LifeSuPod—and access to a cure—in exchange for a dangerous favor, Cain thinks he’s found a way out. But Cain’s new power threatens to take him on paths that jeopardize his very soul.

Will he continue searching for a cure, or will he swear allegiance to the Nightmare? And the bigger question might be . . . will he even have a choice?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was one of my most anticipated books of the year. I’ve loved all of Nadine Brandes’ books, so I had very high expectations for this one. It did not disappoint. It exceeded all of my expectations, and, I’ve gotta say, this is my new favorite.

This was such an imaginative and unique story. It captivated me from the beginning, pulled at my heartstrings, and, in a concerning turn of events, even invaded my dreams. Or should I say nightmares?

This was fast-paced, exciting, and impossible to put down. My anxiety grew as time ran short. The characters were in serious peril, and I couldn’t figure out how everything would turn out alright in the end. There were twists and turns galore; I never knew what to expect next.

While Cain was likable, he started off the story very bitter and angry. Which was understandable considering all the chaos and uncertainty surrounding him. Things were bleak, and it didn’t feel like there was any hope left. But, something to remember, something that I think most people tend to forget in times of trouble—there is always, always hope! Sometimes you have to look a little harder, but it’s always there.

This was such a powerful and impactful story. One of light vs. dark. Of finding hope even in the most hopeless of situations. I loved it so much and know it will stay with me for a long time to come. I highly, highly recommend it!

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes.

About the Book

Some viruses go after the body. But the Nightmare Virus goes after the mind.

When dream technology goes wrong, a virus spreads across the globe, trapping people in a universal dreamscape. They call it the Nightmare Virus.

Cain Cross is determined to find a cure . . . if he can decipher his brother’s chicken-scratch formula notes. But when he gets infected, he has only 22 days until he’s trapped in the mental prison forever. Now, every time he falls asleep, he must fight in a Nightmare Arena until he earns his freedom to live in the “new world” that exists only in the mind.

Then he finds a way to manipulate the Nightmare—to change it by mere thought.

Forced to navigate a world of nightbeasts, mistblades, and half-truths, Cain turns his focus to survival. When the Emperor offers him a LifeSuPod—and access to a cure—in exchange for a dangerous favor, Cain thinks he’s found a way out. But Cain’s new power threatens to take him on paths that jeopardize his very soul.

Will he continue searching for a cure, or will he swear allegiance to the Nightmare? And the bigger question might be . . . will he even have a choice?

Book Beginning / First Line Friday

Once you catch the Nightmare Virus, you have 22 days until you die.

Friday 56

How is this possible?

I'm getting tired of asking that question.

Despite my confusion, I manage to raise my hand in a small wave.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole releasing August 6.

About the Book

In a world where paper is extremely scarce and books are priceless, Juni undertakes a dangerous quest to find a legendary lost treasure—the last library.

Juni lives in a world without books. The Blight killed off all the trees, and since then, paper is worth more than just about anything else. Juni’s parents were killed in an archeological dig when she was young, so now it’s just her and her Grandpa Edgar, trying to survive. When she’s not in school, Juni and her friends Doler and Quaze turn to plifting—scavenging in abandoned buildings for any scrap of paper they can find—to earn a little money. If Juni can find enough paper, she can pay for the expensive health care Grandpa needs.

So when Juni discovers a book—the first one she’s ever seen—hidden in a box in her grandpa’s closet, she’s both surprised and elated at the thought of the money she could get by selling it. Grandpa, however, insists that she read it first. Beyond the experience of opening her imagination, which exceeds her expectations, the book has hidden clues in the text that point to what could be the last library on Earth. If reading one book could change her own life so dramatically, what would access to thousands of books do?

While out plifting, Juni meets Kobyn, who’s connected to a secret organization eager to find the library and who seems to know something about how Juni’s parents actually died. The mystery deepens when Juni meets Ullred O’Donnell, the head of Novexus, a megacorporation that has replaced the government and now controls all the information—and misinformation—the public sees. With an army of robot sentry dogs by his side, Ullred warns Juni to abandon her quest—or else. Juni, Doler, and Kobyn—along with Zeno, an AI holographic guardian of the library—must liberate the information the library contains and share it with the world before Novexus claims it for their own.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen

About the Book

Cross the grid. Survive the storms. Let your destiny burn.

When mankind’s attempts to control nature backfire, Texas descends into a wasteland. Storms rage and ravenous beasts roam the Outer Grid. The only safe havens rest inside the tech-obsessed domed cities. But when her parents are murdered inside the Plex City dome, seventeen-year-old Juniper Conway wants revenge.

Ties to her extended family threaten to pull her back as she runs from city to city. The Plex is endangering its citizens by legalizing a deadly nano drug, and Juniper’s family needs her help to deliver the counteragent. Saving the city who orphaned her goes against everything she stands for. The only way out is to brave the wasteland.

Juniper joins a shipping crew fearless enough to transport food across the Outer Grid. But when a string of bad luck turns lethal, she fears something, or someone, is dragging her back to the Plex. As her world sinks into chaos, Juniper must decide if revenge is worth the lives of the crew she has come to love.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This story takes place in a dystopian Texas, 200 years in the future, filled with chaotic weather, hi-tech gadgets, body upgrades, teleportation devices, and so much more. That’s just scratching the surface of this intriguing and slightly terrifying read. This book was fantastic. I couldn’t get enough of it and didn’t want it to end.

The worldbuilding was detailed and fascinating. I’ve lived in Texas my whole life, so it was interesting (and kinda scary) to imagine a future like this one.

I liked Juna right off, but it took me a little while to warm up to Dax. He was a little too arrogant for my liking, but by the end of the book, I was fully in his corner.

This was a loose retelling of Jonah, which I loved! What a neat twist to the story!

This book constantly surprised me. I never knew what to expect next, and I loved that! It kept me on my toes! There was one twist that left me stunned!

This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’m eager to read more from this talented author.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen. 

About the Book

Cross the grid. Survive the storms. Let your destiny burn.

When mankind’s attempts to control nature backfire, Texas descends into a wasteland. Storms rage and ravenous beasts roam the Outer Grid. The only safe havens rest inside the tech-obsessed domed cities. But when her parents are murdered inside the Plex City dome, seventeen-year-old Juniper Conway wants revenge.

Ties to her extended family threaten to pull her back as she runs from city to city. The Plex is endangering its citizens by legalizing a deadly nano drug, and Juniper’s family needs her help to deliver the counteragent. Saving the city who orphaned her goes against everything she stands for. The only way out is to brave the wasteland.

Juniper joins a shipping crew fearless enough to transport food across the Outer Grid. But when a string of bad luck turns lethal, she fears something, or someone, is dragging her back to the Plex. As her world sinks into chaos, Juniper must decide if revenge is worth the lives of the crew she has come to love.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

The day Plex City burns to ash will be the best day of my life.

Friday 56

A dull ache throbs at the base of my skull when I wake. It takes forever to open my eyes. When I do, I'm met with a blur of gray and blinding white.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Proper Thing and Other Stories by Seanan McGuire

About the Book

From the end of the world to the beginning, with a nice charcuterie plate to sustain us on the way, it’s time for another journey through the eccentric, eclectic short fiction of Seanan McGuire. From dangerous holidays to the beauty of the library, from the power of cheese to the power of love, this volume will take you from the past to the future, sometimes on the same page.

Learn about the insecurities of the superheroic world, and how hard some people will work to survive the end of absolutely everything. Discover what everyone knows, and watch what happens when the cultural foundations are pulled from under your favorite cuisine. See what people will do when all else is lost, and watch what happens on the day the music dies.

And when all that is through, visit our magical cheese shop for something truly delicious, impossible and unique. We have a little something for everyone in our box of delights. Don’t be afraid—just reach in, and choose a treat to improve and enhance your day.

We’ve been waiting for another trip to the store on the corner, where they sell Wensleydale and wishes side by side. Come along now, let’s go.

Amazon / Goodreads / Publisher Website

MY THOUGHTS

This book is hard for me to review. Like with any anthology, there were stories that I absolutely loved and others that just weren't my cup of tea. I will say, though, that even the ones that I didn't like kept me engaged. McGuire has a real talent for pulling the reader into a story, fully enveloping them in it, and making the real world disappear. I really liked that McGuire had an intro before each story. It was nice to get some insight into them. My favorite stories are listed below.

Coafield’s Catalog of Available Apocalypse Events - This was a bit of a “choose your own apocalypse." It was a fun, yet slightly terrifying, way to start the anthology.

Now Rest, My Dear - This was an emotional and whimsical love letter to libraries.

In the Land of Rainbows and Ash - I really enjoyed this one. While it isn’t a 'Wayward Children' story, it very much felt like one.

Heart of Straw - An ordinary Halloween night of trick-or-treating turns out to be anything but ordinary.

Good Night, Sleep Tight - This was another story about the library, only this time, with more bugs. Yikes!

Rise Up, Rise Up, You Children of the Moon - I thought this was one of the best stories in the anthology. It's set in a dystopian world where night and darkness are forbidden. There’s no place for the monsters in the shadows, but the monsters fight back. I loved the connection to Snow White.

Under the Sea of Stars - This story is about the horrors found in the Bolton Strid. I loved the historical setting of this one.

What Everyone Knows - This was an emotional story about Kaiju. I loved it.

So Sharp, So Bright, So Final - A rabies outbreak causes a zombie-like apocalypse. Terrifying because it's not out of the realm of possibility.

Pedestal - This was a superhero story that delved into the cost of celebrity. I really enjoyed this one. I thought her superpower was really interesting and would love to read more set in this world.

The Proper Thing - This was the longest story in the anthology and the best. It’s McGuire at her finest. I'll just say one thing: magic cheese.

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

THREE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Chromatic (Color Theory #3) by Ashley Bustamante

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Chromatic (Color Theory #3) by Ashley Bustamante releasing May 7.

About the Book

Light is Found in Every Hue

Magus is dying from the inside out, and only the destruction of the barrier can save it. Even color magic can't defend against earthquakes, strange weather patterns, and erratic wildlife behavior.

After discovering hundreds of captive Yellow magic-users, Ava and Elm fight to set them free. However, new dangers and unexpected enemies await at every turn, forcing them to face their greatest challenges yet. The calamities inside the barrier slowly manifest in the outside world as well, pulling citizens from both sides of the battle into the fray. In this new war, they may not all make it out alive.

Elm and Ava must confront the growing darkness and create a future in a world that has been all but stripped of hope. Can Magus be restored, or is it already too late?

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Chaos Grid by Lyndsey Lewellen releasing April 9.

About the Book

Cross the grid. Survive the storms. Let your destiny burn.

When mankind’s attempts to control nature backfire, Texas descends into a wasteland. Storms rage and ravenous beasts roam the Outer Grid. The only safe havens rest inside the tech-obsessed domed cities. But when her parents are murdered inside the Plex City dome, seventeen-year-old Juniper Conway wants revenge.

Ties to her extended family threaten to pull her back as she runs from city to city. The Plex is endangering its citizens by legalizing a deadly nano drug, and Juniper’s family needs her help to deliver the counteragent. Saving the city who orphaned her goes against everything she stands for. The only way out is to brave the wasteland.

Juniper joins a shipping crew fearless enough to transport food across the Outer Grid. But when a string of bad luck turns lethal, she fears something, or someone, is dragging her back to the Plex. As her world sinks into chaos, Juniper must decide if revenge is worth the lives of the crew she has come to love.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante

About the Book

Secrets Come in Every Shade

After the introduction of Yellow magic in a society accustomed to only Red and Blue magic, the world inside the barrier has become more complicated than anyone imagined. Ava, Elm, and the former students of Prism navigate life in hiding. They face discord, secrets, betrayal, and danger that looms ever closer as the Benefactors narrow in on their hideaway.

Ava is determined to keep everyone protected, even at the cost of her own safety. She explores dangerous aspects of her new Mentalist abilities—against Elm’s dire warnings.

Tensions escalate when a new visitor arrives claiming to know a way out of the barrier. While this may be the only way to escape the Benefactors, what awaits them on the outside? Will they gain allies or make an entirely new set of enemies?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I devoured this book. It was compelling, unique, and fast-paced. It's been well over a year since I read Vivid, book one, so while it took me a little while to get my bearings, once I did, I was fully invested and glued to the pages.

I enjoyed seeing the characters’ growth, and I loved that the worldbuilding became even more fleshed out. A lot happened in this book. There were some big revelations and twists that I didn’t see coming. I was surprised multiple times by the turn of events, and I was shocked by that cliffhanger ending. The next book can’t come out soon enough! This isn’t a standalone, so be sure to start with book one.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over until Freda returns.

This week I'm featuring Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante.

About the Book

Secrets Come in Every Shade

After the introduction of Yellow magic in a society accustomed to only Red and Blue magic, the world inside the barrier has become more complicated than anyone imagined. Ava, Elm, and the former students of Prism navigate life in hiding. They face discord, secrets, betrayal, and danger that looms ever closer as the Benefactors narrow in on their hideaway.

Ava is determined to keep everyone protected, even at the cost of her own safety. She explores dangerous aspects of her new Mentalist abilities—against Elm’s dire warnings.

Tensions escalate when a new visitor arrives claiming to know a way out of the barrier. While this may be the only way to escape the Benefactors, what awaits them on the outside? Will they gain allies or make an entirely new set of enemies?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"They're like locusts, aren't they?"

Friday 56

We all exchange uneasy looks. I don't think any of us are ready yet to relive our experience for an audience.

What have you been reading lately?

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Looking-Glass Illusion (The Curious Realities #2) by Sara Ella

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over until Freda returns.

This week I'm featuring The Looking-Glass Illusion by Sara Ella. It's the conclusion to the Curious Realities duology and, oh my goodness! It's so good! It has to be the best Alice in Wonderland retelling I've read. 

About the Book

Step through the looking glass. Slay the Jabberwock. Seek the King.

Alice is not prepared to face what awaits beyond the Tulgey Wood. When she and the rest of Team Heart enter the fourth and final Wonderland Trial, it’s up to her to lead them to victory. But this Trial is more than a game. If Alice and the others fail to defeat the Jabberwock and reveal the truth about Wonderland, more than points and fame will be lost.

Chess Shire never believed he’d make it this far. Now he’s stuck navigating a Trial he’s seen but doesn’t remember, all while searching for the brother he left behind. Not everything is as black and white as the game that shares his name. And if Alice discovers his deepest regret? Chess might just lose her too.

Apart, Chess and Alice scour the eight squares of the Heart Trial in search of memories, truth, and an Ivory King who seems more illusion than reality. Will they learn to lead together to face their greatest fears? Or will they remain pawns in a queen’s game, never truly seeing the Wonderland they’ve come to believe in?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Deep breath. She's all right.

We're all right.

As long as we stay together, everything will be all right.

Friday 56

I suddenly wish we could make this a lengthier goodbye. That we could spend hours and days and weeks filling in every blank and eliminating every question mark. But we have to keep moving forwards on the board. We did come to finish, after all.

And all of Wonderland - even if they don't know it yet - is counting on us to reveal the truth.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Retribution of Eden Pruitt (The Eden Pruitt Series #4) by K.E. Ganshert

About the Book
A VILLAIN DISGUISED AS THE HERO …

America is in peril. The public is being deceived. The enemy grows more powerful by the day. And Eden’s plans horrendously backfired.

Now she’s locked up with a hostile soldier whose upbringing couldn’t be more different from her own. And whose loyalty could change everything. She sets out to win his trust, prove herself to the Resistance, and somehow, make amends with Cassian. If there’s any hope of vanquishing the adversary, they must set aside their grievances and come together as one.

Join Eden and her crew as they fight to save the world in this final, sensational installment of The Eden Pruitt Series, where allegiances are tested, sacrifices are necessary, and the action never stops.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What a fantastic conclusion to this series! I was both excited and a little nervous to dive into this book. Excited because I was eager to see what would happen to these characters I’ve come to love. I was nervous for the exact same reason. Would they be able to defeat the bad guy and save the country? And how were they going to accomplish that? I was stressed from beginning to end because there were times when things looked impossible. Hopeless, even.

There was a sense of urgency and foreboding throughout the whole book, and my anxiety seemed to grow with each page I read. This was action-packed, exciting, and thought-provoking. I know it’ll stay with me for a long time. If you’re a fan of thrilling, eye-opening dystopias, you’ll love this series. I highly recommend it!

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Retribution of Eden Pruitt (The Eden Pruitt Series #4) by K.E. Ganshert

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over until Freda returns.

This week I'm featuring The Retribution of Eden Pruitt (The Eden Pruitt Series #4) by K.E. Ganshert. Oh my goodness, this conclusion is a wild and exciting ride! I'm enjoying it so much! 

About the Book

A VILLAIN DISGUISED AS THE HERO …

America is in peril. The public is being deceived. The enemy grows more powerful by the day. And Eden’s plans horrendously backfired.

Now she’s locked up with a hostile soldier whose upbringing couldn’t be more different from her own. And whose loyalty could change everything. She sets out to win his trust, prove herself to the Resistance, and somehow, make amends with Cassian. If there’s any hope of vanquishing the adversary, they must set aside their grievances and come together as one.

Join Eden and her crew as they fight to save the world in this final, sensational installment of The Eden Pruitt Series, where allegiances are tested, sacrifices are necessary, and the action never stops.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Before the hatch opened, before the giant climbed down the ladder with a girl slung over his shoulder, Tycho - first-born of the Electus - was having a dream. A wonderful, beautiful dream. He wasn't in captivity, being poisoned by the enemy. He was diving off the dock into the harbor on a hot summer day. His powers had just come in. He was the first of his kin to receive them. Intoxicating strength. Thrilling speed. Incomprehensible reflexes. He was showing off, and Aurelia was amazed. Enraptured. Soon, her powers would come, too. The promise made her giddy.

Friday 56

The last time Cass had celebrated Thanksgiving, he was twelve.

What have you been reading lately?