Can't Wait Wednesday: John Eyre: A Tale of Darkness and Shadow by Mimi Matthews

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 John Eyre: A Tale of Darkness and Shadow by Mimi Matthews releasing July 20.

About the Book

From USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews comes a supernatural Victorian gothic retelling of Charlotte Brontë's timeless classic.

Yorkshire, 1843. When disgraced former schoolmaster John Eyre arrives at Thornfield Hall to take up a position as tutor to two peculiar young boys, he enters a world unlike any he’s ever known. Darkness abounds, punctuated by odd bumps in the night, strange creatures on the moor, and a sinister silver mist that never seems to dissipate. And at the center of it all, John’s new employer—a widow as alluring as she is mysterious.

Sixteen months earlier, heiress Bertha Mason embarked on the journey of a lifetime. Marriage wasn’t on her itinerary, but on meeting the enigmatic Edward Rochester, she’s powerless to resist his preternatural charm. In letters and journal entries, she records the story of their rapidly-disintegrating life together, and of her gradual realization that Mr. Rochester isn’t quite the man he appears to be. In fact, he may not be a man at all.

From a cliff-top fortress on the Black Sea coast to an isolated estate in rural England, John and Bertha contend with secrets, danger, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. Can they help each other vanquish the demons of the past? Or are some evils simply too powerful to conquer?

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Double Review: A couple of gaslamp mysteries

Manners and Monsters by Tilly Wallace

Hannah pushed into the room she loved the most. Could there be anything more marvellous in the world than a library? Other women might prefer a ballroom, or a millinery shop, but Hannah swooned over books.

Hannah is not the typical lady of society. Though once accepted by the elites, she is now ostracized. She assists her father, the so-called "mad scientist", in his research of Unnatural Creatures and their diseases. A most improper role for a young lady. And the fact that her mother was one of the first Afflicted doesn't really help her case much either.

But she doesn't let that get her down. She's quite content with her life. She knows she's loved by those who really matter. And while she wouldn't mind a few more friends, and though she secretly longs for a true romance, she's perfectly fine with how things are. Honestly.

While attending her best friend's engagement party, a footman is murdered. His brain is missing, so the obvious suspect is one of the Afflicted women who attended the party. Because of her expertise in the Afflicted, Hannah reluctantly partners with the rude Lord Wycliff to catch the murderer.

I LOVED this story! It was so much fun! Hannah was an exceptionally likable character, and Lord Wycliff had a Mr. Darcy-like charm that I just couldn’t resist. I did guess the murderer fairly early on, but that didn't hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact, I didn't want the story to end. I’m so glad there are many more stories in this series for me to enjoy. I can’t wait to see what these characters are up to next.

4.5 STARS

Amazon / Goodreads

The Werewolf of Whitechapel by Suzannah Rowntree

Liz has no memory of her life before the werewolf attack that scarred her and sent her to St. Botolph's. She's vowed to find the truth of her attack and make the monster pay for what he did to her. And her new position as lady's maid and bodyguard to a minor royal is the perfect opportunity to find answers. Because of her new position, she'll be in regular contact with the monsters (werewolves, vampires, sirens) since they populate the Continental Royal ranks.

Fresh into her new job though, Liz finds out her best friend from St. Botolph's has been murdered, and now she has a new mission. Find the murderer and make them pay.

I fully expected to love this one, but I couldn't get into it. It might've just been my mood, though. I had just finished a heavy and emotional read right before this one and was ready for a light and fun diversion, which this one was described as. And while there were moments of lightness and laughs here, it was also darker and much more... political... I guess you could say, then I anticipated. And while that's not a bad thing, it just was not what I was in the mood to read.

I was halfway through with it and moderately intrigued by the mysteries, so I thought I'd set it aside for a little while and come back to it. I picked it back up about three weeks later and still couldn't get into it. I still had the same issues with it. The things that irritated me before irritated me even worse. I was just as frustrated with certain things. And Liz was even more unlikable than I remembered. I hate not finishing a book, and I hate writing a bad review even more, but I'm sad to say I abandoned this book around 60%. It had a lot of promise, it just wasn't for me at this time.

DNF

Amazon / Goodreads

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Standoff (Natchez Trace Park Rangers #1) by Patricia Bradley

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. 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.

This week I'm featuring Standoff (Natchez Trace Park Rangers #1) by Patricia Bradley, a really good romantic suspense.

About the Book

The Natchez Trace National Parkway stretches 444 miles from Nashville to Natchez, the oldest town on the Mississippi River. It's the perfect road for a relaxed pleasure drive. Unfortunately for park ranger Luke Fereday, lately it's being used to move drugs. Sent to Natchez to infiltrate the organization at the center of the drug ring, Luke arrives too late to a stakeout and discovers the body of his friend, park ranger John Danvers.

John's daughter Brooke is determined to investigate her father's murder, but things are more complicated than they first appear, and Brooke soon finds herself the target of a killer who will do anything to silence her. Luke will have his hands full keeping her safe. But who's going to keep him safe when he realizes he's falling--hard--for the daughter of the man he failed to save?

Award-winning author Patricia Bradley introduces you to a new series set in the sultry South that will have you wiping your brow and looking over your shoulder.

Book Beginnings

What had he gotten himself into?

Friday 56

In the yard, Toby barked, the sound hollow and far away. Sharon turned toward the house as an orange ball of flame barreled out the front door.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The City of Zirdai (Archives of the Invisible Sword #2) by Maria V. Snyder

About the Book

Through her courage and tenacity, Shyla Sun-Kissed has awoken the power of The Eyes of Tamburah. But this feat only marks the beginning of the challenges that the magical order, the Invisible Sword, faces to free the underground city of Zirdai.

Though they have allies among the monks and splinter cells inside the city, Shyla knows the Invisible Sword doesn't have the strength to win. With the group fracturing due to the strain of losses from their latest ordeal, thinly veiled suspicions and endless disagreements, it's up to Shyla to forge a new united order.

When both the draconian Water Prince and brutal Heliacal Priestess learn of Shyla's new powers, life becomes even more complicated as they will stop at nothing to capture Shyla and take the magic of The Eyes for themselves. Hunted at every turn and unable to hide, Shyla and the Invisible Sword must use every resource at their command - and unearth new ones - in their race to save the city from destruction. But their enemies always seem to be one step ahead. And the cost to win the battle may be more than Shyla would ever be willing to pay...

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This picks up pretty much right where the last one left off. It took me just a bit to get back into it and get my bearings, but once I did, I was right back in the thick of things.

The world-building was fantastic. Everything really came to life and I could picture things perfectly. It was so realistically described that I could almost feel the heat and the sand on my skin.

It was slower-paced than I expected. Not that that's a bad thing. But it was surprising because the characters seemed to face crisis after crisis. I just didn't feel that sense of urgency I'd expect from those kinds of situations. They'd solve one problem and then another one would immediately pop up, and while I should have been racing through the pages, I was just slowly making my way through it. It wasn't bad, though, just not what I expected.

While this wasn't one of my favorite Maria V. Snyder books, it was still an enjoyable and interesting read. I am looking forward to the conclusion of the series.

THREE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Woman in Shadow by Carrie Stuart Parks

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 Woman in Shadow by Carrie Stuart Parks releasing July 13.

About the Book

Carrie Stuart Parks combines her expertise as a forensic artist with her ability to craft a gripping story in this page-turning web of light and shadow.

A woman off the grid.

Darby Graham thinks she's on a much-needed vacation in remote Idaho to relax. But before she even arrives at the ranch, an earthquake strikes—her first clue that something is amiss. Then when a cabin on the edge of town is engulfed in flames and problems at the ranch escalate, Darby finds herself immersed in a chilling mystery.

A town on fire.

A serial arsonist sends taunting letters to the press after each fire. As a forensic linguist, this is Darby’s area of expertise . . . but the scars it’s caused her also the reason she’s trying to escape from her life.

A growing darkness.

As the shadows continue to move in, the pieces of the town around her come into sharper focus. Can she trust the one man who sees her clearly?

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Rocco (Lantern Beach Blackout: The New Recruits #1) by Christy Barritt

Rocco by Christy Barritt 

It was great being back in Lantern Beach with this new spin-off series.

You’d think delivering cupcakes would be safe, but baker Peyton Ellison finds out that’s not always the case. Making a late night delivery at the request of her brother turns dangerous when bullets start to fly. What kind of mess has Peyton found herself in?

The new Blackout crew has been hired to catch a person trying to sell company secrets and are staking out the location where the transfer is supposed to go down when Peyton shows up to deliver a box of cupcakes. Trying to figure out how she fits into the investigation, but knowing in his gut that she’s innocent, Rocco vows to protect Peyton and get to the bottom of what’s really going on here. This simple investigation has just turned complicated. There’s danger at every turn as they try to unravel this complex mystery.

It took a few chapters for me to really get into this book, and I’m not sure I ever connected with the characters. There was also some suspension of belief needed for some things, but, all in all, this ended up being an enjoyable mystery. And I'm eager to visit Lantern Beach again soon.

3 STARS

Amazon / Goodreads

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The City of Zirdai (Archives of the Invisible Sword #2) by Maria V. Snyder

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. 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.

This week I'm featuring The City of Zirdai (Archives of the Invisible Sword #2) by Maria V. Snyder.

About the Book

Through her courage and tenacity, Shyla Sun-Kissed has awoken the power of The Eyes of Tamburah. But this feat only marks the beginning of the challenges that the magical order, the Invisible Sword, faces to free the underground city of Zirdai.

Though they have allies among the monks and splinter cells inside the city, Shyla knows the Invisible Sword doesn't have the strength to win. With the group fracturing due to the strain of losses from their latest ordeal, thinly veiled suspicions and endless disagreements, it's up to Shyla to forge a new united order.

When both the draconian Water Prince and brutal Heliacal Priestess learn of Shyla's new powers, life becomes even more complicated as they will stop at nothing to capture Shyla and take the magic of The Eyes for themselves. Hunted at every turn and unable to hide, Shyla and the Invisible Sword must use every resource at their command - and unearth new ones - in their race to save the city from destruction. But their enemies always seem to be one step ahead. And the cost to win the battle may be more than Shyla would ever be willing to pay...

Book Beginnings

Sand.

It was everywhere, in everything, and unending. 

 

Friday 56

The five of them stared into the darkness. For the floor to just drop away...that was impressive. She'd never witnessed anything like that before.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Sticks and Stone (The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3) by David James Warren

About the Book

Third Time’s The Charm … Or Not

Rembrandt Stone has only made things worse. This time, upon his return, he discovers his closest friendship is up in flames. Andrew Burke’s new scars reflect the havoc Rembrandt has left on his own timeline and he must go back—one last trip into the past. This time he'll save Burke, fix his life and track down a serial killer who possess an uncanny ability to evade him through time.

When Rembrandt lands in the past and two children disappear into an epic Minneapolis blizzard, he's in a race with time to save the children, his partner, and create a future he can live with.

Sticks and Stone—the third book in the gripping True Lies of Rembrandt Stone series—starts sprinting on page one and doesn’t slow down till the final words.

Hold onto your head...and your heart.

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I am Rembrandt Stone, former investigator turned failed novelist, father to a seven-year-old daughter, gone missing in time, husband to a wife who can’t remember being married to him, and the owner of a time-traveling watch.

I'm loving this series! I think this installment is my favorite one yet.

Rem's going back to the past again to solve one more of his old cold cases. He vows not to screw up the timeline like he did the previous times he went back. He's just gonna solve a crime and catch a bad guy or two. Simple, right? Not so much.

This one had more romance than the previous books, but there was still a lot of action and suspense. And that ending has me so curious to find out what happens next. I can't wait!

4.5 STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Questland by Carrie Vaughn

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 Questland by Carrie Vaughn. I loved this author's Kitty Norville series and am excited to check out something new from her.

About the Book

YOU FIND YOURSELF IN A MAZE FULL OF TWISTY PASSAGES...

Literature professor Dr. Addie Cox is living a happy, if sheltered, life in her ivory tower when Harris Lang, the famously eccentric billionaire tech genius, offers her an unusual job. He wants her to guide a mercenary strike team sent to infiltrate his island retreat off the northwest coast of the United States. Addie is puzzled by her role on the mission until she understands what Lang has built: Insula Mirabilis, an isolated resort where tourists will one day pay big bucks for a convincing, high-tech-powered fantasy-world experience, complete with dragons, unicorns, and, yes, magic.

Unfortunately, one of the island's employees has gone rogue and activated an invisible force shield that has cut off all outside communication. A Coast Guard cutter attempting to pass through the shield has been destroyed. Suspicion rests on Dominic Brand, the project’s head designer— and Addie Cox's ex-boyfriend. Lang has tasked Addie and the mercenary team with taking back control of the island at any cost.

But Addie is wrestling demons of her own—and not the fantastical kind. Now, she must navigate the deadly traps of Insula Mirabilis as well as her own past trauma. And no d20, however lucky, can help Addie make this saving throw.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: The Proposal (All Roads Lead to Texas #2) by Tanya Eavenson

About the Book

When the sheriff’s daughter goes into hiding from her father’s killer, her life isn’t the only thing in danger.

The day Jessica Thompson’s father was murdered, she swore to never love another sheriff. Now, she’s fleeing his killer. When her stagecoach is robbed and her rescuer declares she will be his wife, she does the only thing she knows to do—shove her revolver in his back. Never would she have expected he wore a star on his chest.

Sheriff Blake McKenny prides himself on protecting his town’s people from danger, but his efforts don’t include a headstrong woman bent on putting herself in harm’s way. When outlaws threaten his town and put Jessica’s life in danger, Blake’s failure to save his late wife haunts him.

Can Jessica and Blake forgive themselves for the past and break down the protective walls around their hearts? Or will secrets and deception take their lives in a direction they never saw coming?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I really enjoyed this story! Westerns aren't something I usually gravitate towards, but I eagerly jumped into this one because it's by one of my favorite authors, Tanya Eavenson. And I've gotta say, it did not disappoint, and in fact, exceeded all my expectations. It held my full attention and helped distract me from real-life stresses.

Jessica was the type of heroine I love to read about. She's independent, feisty, full of spunk, and determination, yet also had a softer side and a great love for the Lord. She definitely kept things lively. Blake was the epitome of a gentleman. Trustworthy, dependable, honest, and sweet. Their first meeting was memorable, to say the least.

This was fast-paced with moments that had my heart racing and anxiety high. But it also had some lighter moments that made me laugh, and touching, heartfelt moments that brought tears to my eyes. There was a strong spiritual message woven throughout that I loved, too.

All in all, The Proposal was a wonderful read that I highly recommend to fans of inspirational historical romance.

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

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Sticks and Stone (The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3) by David James Warren

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. 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.

This week I'm featuring Sticks and Stone (The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #3) by David James Warren. This time travel suspense series just keeps getting better and better!

About the Book

Third Time’s The Charm … Or Not

Rembrandt Stone has only made things worse. This time, upon his return, he discovers his closest friendship is up in flames. Andrew Burke’s new scars reflect the havoc Rembrandt has left on his own timeline and he must go back—one last trip into the past. This time he'll save Burke, fix his life and track down a serial killer who possess an uncanny ability to evade him through time.

When Rembrandt lands in the past and two children disappear into an epic Minneapolis blizzard, he's in a race with time to save the children, his partner, and create a future he can live with.

Sticks and Stone—the third book in the gripping True Lies of Rembrandt Stone series—starts sprinting on page one and doesn’t slow down till the final words.

Hold onto your head...and your heart.

The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.

Book Beginnings

The pieces of two lives sit in my brain like they should fit together, but no matter how hard I press, I can't get them to line up.

Friday 56

"Wishes and what-ifs don't change things. The only thing that matters is right now. What you choose is who you are, and the future you're writing. Get that right and you don't have to worry about the what-ifs."

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Amanda: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sewing in SoCal #4) by Sarah Monzon

About the Book

“The devil made me do it” is a phrase that will never pass my lips. Why would it when I have Delores, my undiagnosed autoimmune disorder, to make all my decisions for me? (Yes, I named her myself since the doctors couldn’t do it for me.) A get together with friends? Delores says no. I’ll have my prescheduled daily afternoon fever and fatigue at that time.

My two biggest regrets with having Delores direct my fate? One, my family thinks my illness is all in my head. And two, I set the love of my life, Peter Reynolds, free from my anchoring tether so he could fly. I never thought I’d see him again, but five years later he’s soaring in the limelight as one of the most talked-about defensive players in professional football. Oh, and did I mention he also happens to play for the team my boss just assigned me to as a social media manager?

Meanwhile, nothing much has changed for me. Delores still bosses me around, and I’m still hopelessly in love with Peter. What’s a girl to do?

Amazon / Goodreads

(Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting)

MY THOUGHTS

After a while, continually hearing friends and specialists say my symptoms were all in my head had made me begin to wonder if it weren't true. In a moment of clarity, I'd realized I was too tired. I didn't have the energy to face my sickness every day and try to convince people who'd claimed to love me that something was really wrong. So instead of fighting, I gave in. Delores became my little secret. My private battle. If no one knew about her, then I wouldn't have to deal with the disappointment of watching my friends and family lose faith in me. Life was better that way.

I really enjoyed this book. It's got a lot of heart, a ton of laughs, and a great romance. And even though it's book four in the series, it can totally stand alone.

After so many times of doctors saying they couldn't find anything wrong with me, my friends started to believe the professionals. I couldn't blame them. They couldn't feel the constant pain that went bone deep or the sloughing weariness that zapped my energy. They couldn't see the brain fog or the tingling or numbness. On the outside, I didn't look sick, so to them, that meant I must not be.

As someone living with an invisible illness, I could totally relate to Amanda. The stigma, the unbelief and judgment from family and friends. I've definitely experienced all of that. I really appreciated the authenticity author Sarah Monzon brought to the subject. Just the fact that she's shining a light on it makes me so happy. It's something that's so underrepresented in literature, so it was nice to read about someone fighting a similar fight as mine.

Molly put her hand on my arm. “Are you okay?” I looked up and said the same thing I always did when asked that question. “I’m fine.” One day, hopefully, that would no longer be a lie.

FOUR STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Shadow (Heirs of Neverland #2) by Kara Swanson

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 Shadow (Heirs of Neverland #2) by Kara Swanson releasing July 13.

About the Book

Peter Pan has crash-landed back on Neverland. But this is not the island he remembers.

Desperate to rescue Claire and the fractured Lost Boys, Peter must unravel what truly tore his dreamland apart. But with each step, he is haunted by more of his own broken memories. Not even Pan himself is what he seems.

Claire Kenton is chained to a pirate ship, watching the wreckage of Neverland rocked by tempests. When she finally finds her brother, Connor is every bit as shattered as the island. Claire may have pixie dust flowing in her veins—but the light of Neverland is flickering dangerously close to going out forever.

To rescue Neverland from the inescapable shadow, the boy who never grew up and the girl who grew up too fast will have to sacrifice the only thing they have left: each other.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Cover Reveal: In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh

I'm thrilled to reveal another cover with y'all today! In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh releases February 2022. I love a good royal romance and this one sounds epic! And how about that cover? Stunning, right? I can't stop staring!

About the Book

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha’s Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops the mother of all bombshells—Brielle is a princess in the kingdom of Oloro Ilé, Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, King Tiwa Jimoh Adebayo, is failing.

Distraught by her mother’s betrayal, Brielle is further left spinning when the Oloro Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before assuming the throne or the crown will be passed to another. Uncertain who to choose from the council’s list of bachelors, she struggles with the decision along with the weight of her new role in a new country. With her world totally shaken, she must take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring.

For More Information: https://tonishiloh.com/in-search-of-a-prince/

About the Author
Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. She writes to bring God glory and to learn more about His goodness. Her novels, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist, Risking Love a 2020 Selah Award finalist, and The Truth About Fame a 2021 Holt Medallion finalist.

A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and of the Virginia Chapter, Toni seeks to encourage authors in the writing industry. She loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. You can learn more about her writing at http://tonishiloh.com.

Follow Toni:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authortonishiloh
Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonishilohwrite
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tonishiloh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tonishiloh
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/tonishiloh
BookBub: www.bookbub.com/authors/toni-shiloh
Newsletter: http://tonishiloh.com/subscribe
Blogs: www.inspyromance.com ; http://diversitybetweenthepages.wordpress.com

Cover Reveal: Unleashing Fire (Fallen Legacies #3) by Julie Hall

I’m so excited to be part of the cover reveal for Unleashing Fire, Fallen Legacies Book 3 by Julie Hall! This has been one of my most anticipated releases of the year and I'm so glad it's coming soon!

About the Book

The world will ignite and so will I.

The Forsaken hunger for vengeance, leaving Steel and I with no choice but to follow Camiel to the only place strong enough to protect me—Eden, an ancient, hidden city darkened by my family’s secrets.

But Eden isn’t the safe haven I expected, and family runs deeper than blood.

As Thorne grows stronger by the day, his Fallen forces threaten to raze London—and then the world—to cinders. In order to stop him, the entire angelic community has to unite, but ancient feuds and millennia of prejudice put everything at risk.

My heart knows where I belong—fighting besides my loved ones—but I have a secret that could doom them all. There’s a dark power growing inside me, hellish and spiraling beyond my control.

The realms have merged. The darkness calls to me. And there's only one thing standing in my way . . . Steel.

Fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout and Cassandra Clare will love this Crescent City meets Crave mash up!

Release Date: July 22nd
Preorder Link: www.UnleashingFire.com
Add to your Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57052833-unleashing-fire

Review: On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor by Jaime Jo Wright

About the Book

1885.
Adria Fontaine has been sent to recover goods her father pirated on the Great Lakes during the war. But when she arrives at Foxglove Manor--a stone house on a cliff overlooking Lake Superior--Adria senses wickedness hovering over the property. The mistress of Foxglove is an eccentric and seemingly cruel old woman who has filled her house with dangerous secrets, ones that may cost Adria her life.

Present day.
Kailey Gibson is a new nurse's aide at a senior home in a renovated old stone manor. Kidnapped as a child, she has nothing but locked-up memories of secrets and death, overshadowed by the chilling promise from her abductors that they would return. When the residents of Foxglove start sharing stories of whispers in the night, hidden treasure, and a love willing to kill, it becomes clear this home is far from a haven. She'll have to risk it all to banish the past's demons, including her own.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor was another winner from Jaime Jo Wright. It's right up there with Echoes Among the Stones as my favorite of hers.

I was immediately pulled into this gothic tale and held captive till the very last word. It's so creepy good with just the right amount of chills. There were definitely some goosebump-inducing moments that had me happy I wasn't reading it in the dark. But there was also a strong faith element which I really loved.

The mystery spanning both timelines was excellent. I had just finished another book about the conspiracy of the missing gold and so it was fun trying to “crack the code” alongside these characters.

Both timelines were utterly compelling, but if I had to pick a favorite, the present would edge out the past just a tiny bit. I loved seeing Kailey's relationship with her autistic brother, Jude. It was really sweet. And I really loved seeing a person with autism represented so well here.

I took my time reading this book. I wanted to linger in it for as long as possible, but once I hit the 80% mark, I couldn't put it down. I had to finish it right then. Supper was a little late, but I have no regrets. This was a fantastic dual timeline that I highly recommend.

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

QUOTES:
“Whether or not ghosts exist, or spirits, or demons, or however you want to label it, I believe God is the one I'm going to spend my time focusing on. The others steal the attention otherwise, and really, He usurps them all. I mean, I'd pit God against a ghost any day.”

“We complicate our purpose in life too much. We try to define it, then build on it, until our ideals become man-made instead of God-directed.”

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Amanda (Sewing in SoCal #4) by Sarah Monzon

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. 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.

This week I'm featuring Amanda: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sewing in SoCal #4) by Sarah Monzon. It's got a lot of laughs, but it also deals with a serious subject that I can relate to. I really appreciated the author shining a light on invisible illness in such an authentic way.

About the Book

“The devil made me do it” is a phrase that will never pass my lips. Why would it when I have Delores, my undiagnosed autoimmune disorder, to make all my decisions for me? (Yes, I named her myself since the doctors couldn’t do it for me.) A get together with friends? Delores says no. I’ll have my prescheduled daily afternoon fever and fatigue at that time.

My two biggest regrets with having Delores direct my fate? One, my family thinks my illness is all in my head. And two, I set the love of my life, Peter Reynolds, free from my anchoring tether so he could fly. I never thought I’d see him again, but five years later he’s soaring in the limelight as one of the most talked-about defensive players in professional football. Oh, and did I mention he also happens to play for the team my boss just assigned me to as a social media manager?

Meanwhile, nothing much has changed for me. Delores still bosses me around, and I’m still hopelessly in love with Peter. What’s a girl to do?

Book Beginnings

Whoever said "It's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all" was the biggest liar in Earth's history.

Friday 56

"Something wrong?" Besides this. Him. Me. Together. If the robot from Lost in Space were here, he'd be rolling around with his robotic arms flailing repeating Danger! over and over again.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Between Decisions (The City Between #8) by W.R. Gingell

About the Book

Life is complicated.

I mean, life has always been complicated, but there’s a difference between monsters-are-trying-to-kill-you complications and monsters-are-in-love-with-you complications. I’m still not sure which is more dangerous.

G’day. I’m Pet. Two-thirds of a pet, anyway: the vampire isn’t claiming ownership these days, but he’s definitely encroaching. On the list of other encroaching complications is the threat of heirling trials, a certain fae lord, and a mysterious librarian—not to mention the thing that’s killing people on Hobart’s waterfront…

One day, I’ll have a normal life. Today is not that day.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Oh my goodness! This book, y'all! I don't even know where to start. That ending? AHHHH! It tore my heart to shreds! We finally got some answers. Oh, man, do we get answers! Were they the answers I wanted? No. Was I surprised? Not really. I always suspected. The clues were all there, but I hoped my suspicions were wrong. I so badly wanted to be wrong.

Sorry for this incoherent mess of a review. I really don't know what to say. This book just about wrecked me. And I really do need the next one, like, right now. If you haven't started this series yet, do yourself a favor and grab yourself a copy of book one, and be prepared for an unforgettable and weirldly wonderful ride.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Secrets in the Mist (Skyworld #1) by Morgan L. Busse

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 Secrets in the Mist (Skyworld #1) by Morgan L. Busse releasing August 10. 

About the Book

What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what's left of humanity into the undead.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Release Day Review: On Skein of Death (A Riverbank Knitting Mystery #1) by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

For Libby Beckett, opening her charming yarn shop, and introducing customers to the joys of knitting and crochet, is the work she was meant to do. Until the yarn she loves is used for murder….

Libby has come home to Collinstown, Maryland to live her dream and open her own yarn shop, aptly named Y.A.R.N., along the Chester River. To Libby, Y.A.R.N. stands for "You're Absolutely Ready Now." But the acronym changes whenever inspiration strikes, and customers add to the list of suggestions that fill the blackboard wall in a shop stuffed with color, fiber, and comfort.

Libby is thrilled when she lands famous Norwegian knitting celebrity Perle Langager for a series of events at Y.A.R.N. Libby's English bulldog, Hank, has been modeling one of Perle's doggie sweaters, and customers just can't wait to see Perle in action. The mayor of Collinstown even decrees a Collinstown Yarn Day to celebrate. But once Perle arrives in town, she seems distracted and on edge. And when she's found strangled with a skein of red yarn, Libby knows she has to solve a knotty mystery before her new life unravels.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a fantastic cozy mystery. I'm not a knitter, don't really know much about it, so I was a little unsure about this book. But it's by Allie Pleiter, one of my favorite authors, so I figured I'd give it a chance. It blew me away. I loved it! It's one of my favorite cozies in recent memory.

There was something very comforting about the way this was written. I felt right at home in these pages. Libby's first-person narration was so welcoming and her upbeat attitude put a smile on my face. Her enthusiasm for knitting was contagious. She also made a great amateur sleuth. She was a little reluctant about it at first, but she really grew into the role.

On Skein of Death is sure to delight knitters and non-knitters alike. I can't wait to visit Collinstown again. Highly recommended!

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

FIVE STARS