The Winter of Winters by Robert M. Kidd REVIEW

The Winter of Winters

by Robert M. Kidd

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Synopsis

218 BC. Hannibal’s exhausted army staggers down from the last Alpine pass like a rabble of half-starved savages, the remnants of a once magnificent army that had set out from the Rhodanus with such hope. Now there is no way back. With the legions of Consul Publius Scipio closing fast, Carthage needs its Gaulish allies like never before. But where are the Insubres? Where are the Boii? Where are the thousands of warriors pledged by solemn oath? In the maelstrom of battle, Sphax, nephew of Hannibal, forges a reputation as the scourge of Rome. But will his ingrained recklessness and quest for honour set him at odds with the forbidding genius of his uncle? Only one thing is certain in this winter of winters, a great battle is coming that will decide the fates of Rome and Carthage.

Purchase Links:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B093TD86FM/
US - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093TD86FM/

Review

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

The Winter of Winters is the second book in The Histories of Sphax series. I have not read the first book in this series. I didn't feel like I was missing out on any information as I was reading so I feel like this could absolutely be read as a standalone. 

I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but not for the reasons I expected to. While I did get the action I wanted, I also got a really good story line outside of the battle. I thought this was so well written. The characters were enjoyable. I found myself quite invested in what was happening to them throughout the book. 

Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It had a good storyline, good characters and enough action to keep me entertained. If historical fiction that centers on battles is your thing you would probably enjoy this one.

Author Bio

When Cato the Censor demanded that ‘Carthage must be destroyed,’ Rome did just that. In 146 BC, after a three year siege, Carthage was raised to the ground, its surviving citizens sold into slavery and the fields where this once magnificent city had stood, ploughed by oxen. Carthage was erased from history.

That’s why I’m a novelist on a mission! I want to set the historical record straight. Our entire history of Hannibal’s wars with Rome is nothing short of propaganda, written by Greeks and Romans for their Roman clients. It intrigues me that Hannibal took two Greek scholars and historians with him on campaign, yet their histories of Rome’s deadliest war have never seen the light of day.

My hero, Sphax the Numidian, tells a different story!

When I’m not waging war with my pen, I like to indulge my passion for travel and hill walking, and like my hero, I too love horses. I live in Pembrokeshire, West Wales.

Social Media Links:

Website - https://robertmkidd.com/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/RobertMKidd1
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064169594911

Giveaway!

Giveaway to Win Book 4 in The Histories of Sphax series to be dedicated to the winner, & a signed dedicated copy too (Open INT)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome. Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below. The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over. Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organizer and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data. I am not responsible for dispatch or delivery of the prize.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33c69494430/

Darling by K. Ancrum REVIEW

Darling

K. Ancrum

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Synopsis:

A teen girl finds herself lost on a dangerous adventure in this YA thriller by the acclaimed author of The Wicker King and The Weight of the Stars—reimagining Peter Pan for today’s world.

On Wendy Darling’s first night in Chicago, a boy called Peter appears at her window. He’s dizzying, captivating, beautiful—so she agrees to join him for a night on the town.

Wendy thinks they’re heading to a party, but instead they’re soon running in the city’s underground. She makes friends—a punk girl named Tinkerbelle and the lost boys Peter watches over. And she makes enemies—the terrifying Detective Hook, and maybe Peter himself, as his sinister secrets start coming to light. Can Wendy find the courage to survive this night—and make sure everyone else does, too?

Acclaimed author K. Ancrum has re-envisioned Peter Pan with a central twist that will send all your previous memories of J. M. Barrie’s classic permanently off to Neverland.

Review:

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

That was absolutely amazing! K. Ancrum's books The Wicker King and The Weight of the Stars have been on my TBR for awhile but I just haven't read them yet. They have now been bumped up near the top because I need more of this author!

Now, about this book...

It is fantastic. The writing is absolutely magnificent. The story itself is absolutely incredible. It's a fast paced page turner that grips you from the very beginning and leaves you breathless and satisfied. I absolutely love how the author manages to keep all the magic of Peter Pan but also makes it dark and thrilling. It's the slightly more grown up version of Peter Pan you didn't know you needed.

Darling is a dark and gripping retelling of Peter Pan that brings you all the classic characters in a way you've never seen them before. I'd recommend this to any Peter Pan fan and those who enjoy dark retellings.

Evolution A200: A Bubonic Apocalypse by Nathaniel Connors REVIEW

 Evolution A200: A Bubonic Apocalypse

by Nathaniel Connors

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Synopsis:

Sunday, May 22nd, 2022,

This is the day the horseman’s plague escaped its internment. Not by the devil’s hand but by mine, and by those who aided us in our expedition.

The contagion spread from a tomb in Rome into Germany, and within weeks consumed all of Europe’s mainland, leading to a global military effort to contain the outbreak. But the virus survived, and the pharmaceutical company that procured the strand, too powerful to infiltrate.

It only took a few months before the infected emerged along the Eastern Shoreline of the United States. Coastal Quarantine Zones were established, but they were not prepared. No one was. No one had been. And no one was intended to be.

But as I sit here in a familiar home, embarking on a new expedition, trying to right my wrongs, I realize my chance of survival is slim against a virus that has evolved into something more instinctual, more sophisticated, than the mindless undead that rose from the tomb they were condemned to.

Dr. Katherine Nelson
September 6th, 2022

Review:

Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Evolution A200: A Bubonic Apocalypse brings us to the end of the world brought on by an expedition gone wrong. When this story opens we start with our basic main characters. You have the guy who notices something is wrong and doesn't care because he wants the payout, the sidekick that follows him and the Doctor who wants to stop digging because she also knows something is wrong. In this case these explorers end up bringing on the end of life as we know it when they unleash a virus that turns people into zombies. 

I thought this book was just fine. The writing was fine. The pacing wasn't too bad. It was a little slow, which isn't bad for a zombie novel, it was just missing the creepiness factor. I found the characters to be pretty average, I didn't have strong feelings towards any of them one way or the other. 

The biggest disappoint with this book for me was the lack of zombie gore. I would have loved to have some more violent zombie action. Don't get me wrong, there were some good scenes in here. However, being a zombie story I would have enjoyed it a lot more if there had of been more gore.

The creepiest part of this book was how intelligent the zombies were. While I prefer my zombies brainless there is some merit to what intelligent zombies bring to the table. The thought of someone turning into a monster that is twisted enough to want to eat you raw while still being smart enough to organize an undead army is enough to keep you awake at night. 

The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend REVIEW

 The Trials of Morrigan Crow

(Nevermoor #1)

by Jessica Townsend

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Synopsis

A cursed girl escapes death and finds herself in a magical world - but is then tested beyond her wildest imagination

Morrigan Crow is cursed. Having been born on Eventide, the unluckiest day for any child to be born, she's blamed for all local misfortunes, from hailstorms to heart attacks--and, worst of all, the curse means that Morrigan is doomed to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday.

But as Morrigan awaits her fate, a strange and remarkable man named Jupiter North appears. Chased by black-smoke hounds and shadowy hunters on horseback, he whisks her away into the safety of a secret, magical city called Nevermoor.

It's then that Morrigan discovers Jupiter has chosen her to contend for a place in the city's most prestigious organization: the Wundrous Society. In order to join, she must compete in four difficult and dangerous trials against hundreds of other children, each boasting an extraordinary talent that sets them apart - an extraordinary talent that Morrigan insists she does not have. To stay in the safety of Nevermoor for good, Morrigan will need to find a way to pass the tests - or she'll have to leave the city to confront her deadly fate.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Nevermoor-Trials-Morrigan-Jessica-Townsend/dp/0316508896/

Review

I simply cannot stress enough how much I loved this book. I was drawn into the story within the first few pages. Morrigan Crow is a cursed child. Born on Eventide, she is destined to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday. However, before death can reach her she is taken away to Nevermoor by a man named Jupiter North. Once she is in Nevermoor she must face four trials in order become a member of the Wundrous Society and stay in the city where she is safe from her death. 

Morrigan Crow has cursed her way to being my absolute favorite fictional character. I just love her so much. I love everything about her. I love her attitude and personality. I delighted in watching her grow and evolve as a character. I just adore her and I don't even know how to articulate my feelings towards her any clearer than that.

While this is not a story about wizards, I did get Harry Potter vibes from it. However, and please don't come for me, I thought this was so much better. I said what I said. No hate towards anyone who loves HP, that is just my personal opinion. If you like HP you should give this one a try, and if you didn't like it then you should give this one a try anyway because it's wonderful.

The Trials of Morrigan Crow transported me to a magical world. In doing so it gave me the strongest feelings of nostalgia as it reminded me of when I first fell in love with reading. It brought me back to the beginning of my reading journey and reminded me why I love reading. This book is so special to me and will always hold a place in my heart. Plus I buddy read this with my 8 year old nephew who also loved it so bonus points for that!

I'd recommend this book to anyone and everyone who is looking for a magical adventure. I already have the second book and I can't wait to read that one with my nephew in June.

A Night Twice As Long by Andrew Simonet REVIEW

 A Night Twice As Long

by Andrew Simonet

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Synopsis

What do you call the difference between what you should feel and what you do feel? Life?

The blackout has been going on for three weeks. But Alex feels like she's been living in the dark for a year, ever since her brother, who has autism, was removed from the house, something Alex blames herself for. So when her best friend, Anthony, asks her to trek to another town to figure out the truth about the blackout, Alex says yes.

On a journey that ultimately takes all day and night, Alex's relationships with Anthony, her brother, and herself will transform in ways that change them all forever.

In this honest and gripping young adult novel, Andrew Simonet spins a propulsive tale about what it means to turn on the lights and look at what's real.

Pre-Order Link - https://www.amazon.ca/Night-Twice-as-Long-ebook/dp/B08BKLC6ZC/

Expected Publication - June 1, 2021

Review

Thank you to Fierce Reads and Netgalley for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

In this heartwarming story we see from Alex's point of view. When the story opens, Alex has been living in a blackout for weeks. There is no estimation of when or if the lights will come back on so life can return to normal. One day Alex agrees to go on an adventure with a friend that results in them kidnapping her younger autistic brother who was removed from the home due to an incident involving Alex. Before they return home Alex will learn not only about herself, but also about those closest to her and the secrets they've been keeping.

I thought this was very well written. There were transitions from present to past and back again that felt effortless to navigate. The writing had a smooth flow that carried the story along nicely. It was the perfect pace to make the story equally engaging and sad. (Pace is a big thing for me and I personally think it can make or break a book.)

Alex was a solid main character. I enjoyed seeing her growth and watching her find and forgive herself. I really felt bad for her throughout a good portion of this story. Her anger at herself and her mother really came through the page and seeped into my soul. Anthony was a really strong supporting character. I found he was developed enough to be enjoyed as the second next to Alex but yet not so focused on as to take away from the MC. 

In the end I ended up giving this one 4 stars instead of 5 because I found it just didn't have that BOOM. I still recommend this book. I still think a lot of teens and adults alike would enjoy what this story has to offer. 

Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu REVIEW

 Moxie

by Jennifer Mathieu

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Synopsis:

Moxie girls fight back!

Vivian Carter is fed up. Fed up with her small-town Texas high school that thinks the football team can do no wrong. Fed up with sexist dress codes and hallway harassment. But most of all, Viv Carter is fed up with always following the rules.

Viv’s mom was a punk rock Riot Grrrl in the ’90s, so now Viv takes a page from her mother’s past and creates a feminist zine that she distributes anonymously to her classmates. She’s just blowing off steam, but other girls respond. Pretty soon Viv is forging friendships with other young women across the divides of cliques and popularity rankings, and she realizes that what she has started is nothing short of a girl revolution.

Review:

Moxie is a story of young females who are fed up with the sexist dress codes and football worshiping principal at their school. Vivan Carter decides it's time for something to happen so she creates a zine to let other girls know they aren't alone. When other girls jump in and start fighting back they soon become a force like the school has never seen.

I really liked this book! I love how the girls all came together to stand against the sexism in their school. I love how the characters fought back against the "boys will be boys" mentality. And I really really love how they showed sexism in high schools in a way that actually relates to high school students. So many times young girls are told to just get over things that happen in high school because it seems small or insignificant to other people. But I have to ask this... WHY THE HELL SHOULD THEY HAVE TO? Why is not getting equal treatment and respect something you should get over because it is just "silly little boy things." Moxie will have you fighting back and saying HELL NO to "boys will be boys" mentality.

This one is for the girls. For the girls who have ever been told that "boys will be boys." For the girls who feel like no one is listening. For the girls who feel like fighting back is pointless. For all the girls who have ever been told to cover up because they wore a tank top to school. This one is for us all!

Cool For The Summer by Dahlia Adler REVIEW

Cool For The Summer

by Dahlia Adler

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Synopsis

Lara's had eyes for exactly one person throughout her three years of high school: Chase Harding. He's tall, strong, sweet, a football star, and frankly, stupid hot. Oh, and he's talking to her now. On purpose and everything. Maybe...flirting, even? No, wait, he's definitely flirting, which is pretty much the sum of everything Lara's wanted out of life.

Except she’s haunted by a memory. A memory of a confusing, romantic, strangely perfect summer spent with a girl named Jasmine. A memory that becomes a confusing, disorienting present when Jasmine herself walks through the front doors of the school to see Lara and Chase chatting it up in front of the lockers.

Lara has everything she ever wanted: a tight-knit group of friends, a job that borders on cool, and Chase, the boy of her literal dreams. But if she's finally got the guy, why can't she stop thinking about the girl?

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Cool-Summer-Dahlia-Adler/dp/125076582X

Review

Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Cool For The Summer is a light YA Contemporary that focuses on Lara and the messy love triangle she finds herself in. When the guy Lara has been crushing on for forever finally falls for her everything should be kisses and sweet teen romance. However, Lara just spent the summer exploring a new fling with Jasmine, the daughter of her mothers boss. Now she has to figure out if she wants the boy, the girl or if she is stuck somewhere in between.

While I did enjoy this one, there's not really much I have to say. I thought everything was just fine. It was your typical light, fun, YA romance. The characters were perfectly fine and likeable. It was a fairly quick read and once I actually had time to sit down and read it I was able to fly through it. 

I can't really say there was anything in the book I actively disliked, I just didn't feel any strong feelings towards it either way. It was one of my most anticipated reads of 2021 and I'm super glad I took the time to read it.

There wasn't anything wrong or problematic with it that would make me not like it, it just didn't wow me. However, I think if you're looking for a light story about discovering your sexuality that includes a good bisexual love triangle you should absolutely give this one a shot. 

Danny Mann Super Fan by Ian Slatter REVIEW

Danny Mann Super Fan

by Ian Slatter

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Synopsis

Danny loves Chadmouth Town Football Club more than anything, but a run of defeats and terrible luck has left them bottom of the table and looking certain to be relegated with time running out. But then, Danny and his best friend Nelson stumble across a bizarre pre-match ritual that seems to turn their luck around, and his beloved team starts winning again. Is it too little too late though, and can he keep doing everything right before each match, even when he starts finding more and more obstacles in his way and despite the relentless teasing from his classmates? It’s going to come down to the wire.

Does Danny have what it takes to save Chadmouth’s season?

Purchase Links:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ian-Slatter/e/B01KP81G2W
US - https://www.amazon.com/Ian-Slatter/e/B01KP81G2W

Review

Thank you to the author and Rachel's Random Resources for a free review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Danny is just an average kid who dearly loves a football team. When they have a bad season Danny would do anything to help them. Even if that means convincing his best friend to do an embarrassing ritual with him on the chance it will bring his team good luck. 

This was such a cute story. It's a very quick read and I was able to finish it in just a couple hours. The story had a nice flow, it wasn't too rushed but it also wasn't dragged out either. I found it to be pleasantly entertaining for such a short book. Danny Mann Super Fan is fun and engaging with lots of laughs and team spirit. 

I think all young football fans would enjoy this story. It's all about the love of the game in this one and younger fans are sure to enjoy it.

Author Bio

Ian published his debut novel, Eco Worrier, in 2020 - a middle grade adventure story with plenty of twists and turns and lots of laughs. He has also written two non-fiction books for adults - Premier League Legends - the top 10 greatest Premier League players of all time and Incredible Moments in Sport. Ian wrote for satirical website newsbiscuit.com for ten years, as well as writing for comedy sketch shows on ITV and BBC Radio.

Social Media Links:

Twitter - @slatter_ian

Hurricane Summer by Asha Bromfield REVIEW

 Hurricane Summer

by Asha Bromfield

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Synopsis:

Tilla has spent her entire life trying to make her father love her. But every six months, he leaves their family and returns to his true home: the island of Jamaica.

When Tilla’s mother tells her she’ll be spending the summer on the island, Tilla dreads the idea of seeing him again, but longs to discover what life in Jamaica has always held for him.

In an unexpected turn of events, Tilla is forced to face the storm that unravels in her own life as she learns about the dark secrets that lie beyond the veil of paradise—all in the midst of an impending hurricane.

Hurricane Summer is a powerful coming of age story that deals with colorism, classism, young love, the father-daughter dynamic—and what it means to discover your own voice in the center of complete destruction.

Review:

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Oh my heart, this one broke me over and over again. We follow Tilla as she and her sister visit their father in Jamaica for the summer. While Tilla is there she has many bad experiences. She is slut shamed, verbally abused, sexually assaulted, her father can't be bothered to spend time with her and her sister and unfortunately there is more. My heart absolutely broke for her.

I was totally captivated by this story. It destroyed me totally and completely before it finally mending my broken heart. The writing is beautiful. The way certain parts are written... they just rip your insides apart. I wanted so badly to walk inside the book and just protect Tilla from everything she was being put through. The author did an amazing job painting the different scenes and characters throughout the story. It was so easy to visualize everything. I was absolutely blown away and I can't wait to read more by this author.

Wayward Voyage by Anna M Holmes GUEST POST

Wayward Voyage

by Anna M Holmes

Synopsis

Anne is a headstrong young girl growing up in the frontier colony of Carolina in the early eighteenth century. With the death of her mother, and others she holds dear, Anne discovers that life is uncertain, so best live it to the full. She rejects the confines of conventional society and runs away to sea, finding herself in The Bahamas, which has become a nest for pirates plaguing the West Indies. Increasingly dissatisfied with her life, Anne meets a charismatic former pirate, John 'Calico Jack' Rackham, and persuades him to take up pirating again, and she won't be left onshore. The Golden Age of Piracy is a period when frontiers were being explored and boundaries pushed. Wayward Voyage creates a vivid and gritty picture of colonial life in the Americas and at sea.


Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wayward-Voyage-Anna-M-Holmes/dp/1913551725/

Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/wayward-voyage/anna-m-holmes/9781913551728

WHSmith: https://www.whsmith.co.uk/products/wayward-voyage/anna-m-holmes/paperback/9781913551728.html

Blackwell’s: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/9781913551728

Foyles: https://www.foyles.co.uk/witem/fiction-poetry/wayward-voyage,anna-m-holmes-9781913551728?term=9781913551728

Browns BFS: https://www.brownsbfs.co.uk/Product/Holmes-Anna-M/Wayward-Voyage/9781913551728

Book Depository(Free Worldwide Shipping): https://www.bookdepository.com/Wayward-Voyage-Anna-M-Holmes/9781913551728?ref=grid-view&qid=1607937748433&sr=1-1

Guest Post

It is difficult to imagine in these days of global interconnectivity and cheap flights what it would have meant to set off on a long sea voyage in the early 18th century. What were conditions like on board? How might you feel knowing you would not see family members again? What was the mindset of those who emigrated or, like Captain Woodes Rogers, embarked on long expeditions lasting several years?

Voyaging–actual and metaphorical–is at the heart of Wayward Voyage.

At the start of my story, it is 1704, and Anne, aged six, is sailing from Ireland to the young colony of Carolina. She loves clinging to the ratlines, rolling with the vessel, feeling the wind and salty spray in her face. She is young and free-spirited trusting her parents to know what they are doing... if she were to think about such a thing. But children don’t. They accept.

Exactly 150 years after that date, my own family (parents and older siblings) set sail from Tilbury Docks London for New Zealand. About that time my mother’s sister and family emigrated to Vancouver. It was understood that the older generation left behind in the UK would die far away from their departed children. That was the way of things.

My oldest brother would have been 13 when they left the UK. After my family had sold off belongings and were packing items to take, my mother asked my brother to purchase a hand axe to pack. Throughout my childhood this hatchet was used for cutting kindling. Did my parents (who were teachers) wonder if they would be clearing land? worried they might need to defend themselves? imagined hardware stores were few and far between? Whichever way you look at it, it raises questions about how much my parents really knew about their destination. And that was1954.

The world view of my characters is a colonial one. The New World was just opening and the Pacific a vast largely unknown expanse. In the early 18thcentury,much of the world was yet to be mapped. At the time my story is set, New Zealand, the country where I was born and brought up, had been ‘discovered’ by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, but James Cook’s explorations were yet to come.

Captains of vessels due to sail to the New World displayed notices at the waterfront talking up the opportunities to be embraced. In my story it is one such as this that tempted Anne’s father to leave Ireland. When they arrive in Charles Town (I use the old spelling) it is clear how tiny and vulnerable this place is and how little Anne’s parents knew about what they were coming to.

On my 24th birthday, (easy to recall the date)I flew out of New Zealand for the first time for my Overseas Experience. What might have lasted several years has extended to the rest of my life. I am used to the reality of what it means to be far away from family. I did not attend either of my parents’ funerals .Not expected. Too far away. Too expensive. Too late.

This pandemic we are experiencing gives a taste of how people lived daily with unexpected death: childbirth, malaria, dysentery. My maternal grandmother died in the 1919 flu pandemic with her ninth baby in her womb. My mother was aged four at that time. A sister, aged eight, also died in that pandemic and two infants had died in infancy. Her brother grew to manhood only to be killed in the Second World War.

I invite you to read Wayward Voyage as an unsentimental traveler but at the same time allow yourselves to become sucked into Anne’s search for ‘something bigger, something more’ and enjoy the adventure.

On my website https://www.annamholmes.com you will find links to Twitter and Facebook, and you can sign up to receive a monthly newsletter on the Contact page. I am keen to engage with readers and welcome questions. The Book Club page has links to further reading and there is a PDF with suggested questions and discussion topics. If you enjoy reading Wayward Voyage, I would love you to leave a review on the retailer’s website and recommend to friends.

Bon voyage and happy reading.
-Anna M Holme

Anna, going aloft on the Lord Nelson, during a week at sea.

Author Bio

Anna is originally from New Zealand and lives in the U.K. with her Dutch partner. WAYWARD VOYAGE is Anna’s first novel. She has been fascinated by the lives of women pirates, Anne Bonny and Mary Read, for a long time. Some years ago, she visualized this story as a screenplay before exploring and building their world more deeply as a novel. WAYWARD VOYAGE made a longlist of 11 for the Virginia Prize in Women’s Fiction 2020.BLIND EYE an eco-thriller, will be published by The Book Guild in September, so this year, 2021, Anna will have two novels coming out. Her screenplay, BLIND EYE, is joint winner of the 2020 Green Stories screenplay competition. A documentary about pioneers of flamenco in the UK that Anna produced and directed was screened in Marbella International Film Festival and in London. This passion project ensures a slice of cultural history has been captured. It is available on YouTube and via a portal on her website. She holds a Humanities B.A, a post-graduate diploma in Journalism and an M.A. in Dance.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://www.annamholmes.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnaMHolmesWriter
Twitter: @AnnaMHolmes_

The Children God Forgot by Graham Masterton REVIEW

 The Children God Forgot

by Graham Masterton

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Synopsis:

A rash of strange and horrifying births sweeps through London in the new horror thriller from master of the genre Graham Masterton.

A SERIES OF STRANGE BIRTHS
A young woman is rushed to the hospital with stabbing pains. The chief surgeon performs a C-section, and delivers a catastrophically malformed foetus that is somehow alive...

A DEVASTATING ATTACK
Sewage engineer Gemma is plunged into a ghostly darkness in the tunnel where she works. She escapes, but her boss goes missing in the chaos. He is later found alive... but his legs have been severed and his eyes pulled out.

A SUPERNATURAL THREAT
DC Jerry Pardoe and DS Jamila Patel of the supernatural squad must team up once more to solve the mystery and save the city. But, if they are to succeed, first they must delve into the dark arts of witchcraft...

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

First I have to say, this book will not be for everybody. In The Children God Forgot women are turning up with impossible pregnancies. When the babies are removed via cesarean section they are severely malformed and incredibly alive. And things just get weird from there.

While I found this book to be a little long, it was still interesting enough. There were a lot of things happening throughout the book that kept my attention. I didn't find it to be as scary as I anticipated however, it did have a few creepy moments. The story line was very dark and incredibly unique. 

As I previously stated, this book won't be for everybody but if you want something that is dark, twisted, and weird this could be something for you. 

Strong trigger warnings for abortion and miscarriage. 

Pigeon-Blood Red by Ed Duncan REVIEW

Pigeon-Blood Red

by Ed Duncan

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Synopsis:

For underworld enforcer Richard "Rico" Sanders, it seemed like an ordinary job: retrieve his gangster boss's stolen goods, and teach the person responsible a lesson. But the chase quickly goes sideways and takes Rico from the mean streets of Chicago to sunny Honolulu. There, the hardened hit man finds himself in uncharted territory, when innocent bystanders are accidentally embroiled in a crime. As Rico pursues his new targets, hunter and prey develop an unlikely respect for one another. Soon, he is faced with a momentous decision: follow his orders to kill the very people who have won his admiration, or refuse and endanger the life of the woman he loves?

Review:

Thank you to the author and Book Publicity Services for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

One thing I didn't like is how we kept going into little side stories. I thought these were unnecessary because they were either about an insignificant character, or it was about a significant character with unnecessary information.

This one had a lot more twists than I expected. I thought it was going to be something more straightforward but I was pleasantly surprised. It had drama, action, adventure and lots of murder. It was quite exciting.

This is really well written. There are quite a few characters in this story, and usually the more characters a book has, the harder they are to keep track of. However, I didn't find that to be an issue here. Each character was distinct enough to be tracked with just a normal thought effort.

This is the first book in a trilogy. I thought it wrapped up nicely with no loose ends. I'm looking forward to what happens next in the series.

Overall, I enjoyed it quite a bit. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys crime fiction.

Purchase Links:

CAN - https://www.amazon.ca/Pigeon-Blood-Red-Ed-Duncan-ebook/dp/B01KYNYUAI/

US - https://www.amazon.com/Pigeon-Blood-Red-Ed-Duncan-ebook/dp/B01KYNYUAI/

A Girl Named Mister by Nikki Grimes REVIEW

 A Girl Named Mister

By Nikki Grimes

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Synopsis:

Mary Rudine, called Mister by almost everyone, has attended church and sung in the choir for as long as she can remember. But then she meets Trey. His long lashes and smooth words make her question what she knows is right, and one mistake leaves her hiding a growing secret.

Another Mary is preparing for her upcoming wedding and has done everything according to Jewish law. So when an angel appears one night and tells her that she—a virgin—will give birth, Mary can't help but feel confused, and soon finds herself struggling with the greatest blessing the world will ever know.

Feeling abandoned, Mister is drawn to Mary's story, and together both young women discover the depth of God's love and the mysteries of his divine plan.

Review:

I absolutely loved this book. Once I started reading it I simply couldn't stop and ended up reading it all at once.

A Girl Named Mister is the story of a 14 year old girl who breaks her promise of abstinence to God and finds herself pregnant after her first time having sex. Throughout the book we go back and forth from Mister's perspective and a book of poetry called Mary Mary. The author is able to dance back and forth between these two flawlessly. The writing is beautiful and lyrical. I really can't say enough about how amazing the book is.

Mister is one if the best characters I have ever read about. I related to her on such a crazy level. Granted I was also a christian teen mom so I may be a little bias. Either way, I absolutely adore her and she is one of my favorite fictional characters. Also, this is now one of my all time favorite books.

I recommend this to everyone. If you like books in verse, try it! If you like stories about teen moms, try it! If you want a quick read, try it! It's written in verse and only takes about 2 hours from start to finish so what have you got to lose?

The Sister-In-Law by Pamela Crane REVIEW

 The Sister-In-Law

by Pamela Crane

Synopsis:

EVERYONE IN THIS FAMILY IS HIDING SOMETHING…

THE WIFE: It was a whirlwind romance and a shotgun wedding, but weeks into their marriage, Candace realizes that moving in with Lane also means moving in with his possessive, uptight sister. And there’s not room for three in this marriage…

THE SISTER-IN-LAW: Harper is the kind of woman who cooks homemade meals and dusts under the furniture – it’s the least she can do for her brother as he’s been sharing his home with her and the kids since her husband’s mysterious death. But then Candace showed up, and started asking questions…

THE HUSBAND: All Lane has ever wanted is a white-picket-fence life. The wife. The two-point-five kids. The happy little family. And everything seemed to be falling into place with Candace until Harper’s jealous streak got in the way, again. But choosing between his sister and wife will be costly – and knowing Harper, the price could be blood…

**This synopsis was used from Netgalley**

Review:

Thank you to Avon Books UK and Netgalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Wow! I really freaking enjoyed this book! There were so many plot twists, some of which I did see coming but some good ones I didn't expect at all. The writing was absolutely fantastic. I was drawn into this story from the start and stayed captivated on the edge of my seat until it was over. I ended up finishing this book in two sittings, I didn't want to put it down the first time but I just couldn't stay awake. It wrapped up so beautifully. There was no drag or over explanation of what happened after, it was literally just enough. 

So let's talk characters. I didn't like any of them. I thought they were fleshed out enough so that I got to get to know each one a little bit but I still didn't know who I could trust and who I couldn't. We get the story from the perspective of Candace, the wife; Lane, the husband; and Harper the sister-in-law. I loved seeing into each one of their perspectives. Each character voice was distinguishable. Floating back and forth from perspective was effortless and smooth. 

At this point I feel like I'm just gushing, which I totally am. however I'm going to leave this here with this final thought. I've never read Pamela Crane before but dammit I can't wait to devour another one of her books.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Sister-Law-Novel-Pamela-Crane-ebook/dp/B08GKR7NB5/

Dreams of the Dying by Nicolas Lietzau REVIEW

 Dreams of the Dying

Nicolas Lietzau

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Synopsis:

If your mind is the enemy, where do you run?

Years after a harrowing war experience, ex-mercenary Jespar Dal'Varek has taken to drifting. It's a lonely existence, but, barring the occasional bout of melancholia, he has found the closest thing to peace a man like him deserves. Life is "all right."

Or so he believes. Hoping to turn the page, Jespar accepts a mysterious invitation into the beautiful but dangerous archipelago of Kilay-and everything changes.

Plagued by explosive social tensions and terrorism, the tropical empire is edging ever closer to civil war. Kilay's merchant king is the only person able to prevent this catastrophe, but he has fallen into a preternatural coma-and it's Jespar's task to figure out what or who caused it. As the investigation takes him across the archipelago and into the king's nightmares, unexpected events not only tie Jespar's own life to the mystery but also unearth inner demons he believed to be long exorcised.

Battling old trauma while fighting for his life, his sanity, and the fate of Kilay, the line between dream and reality blurs until only one question remains: If your mind is the enemy, where do you run?

Review:

Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I'll start off with what I didn't particularly enjoy with the book. The romance was a little bland. There was little to no chemistry within any romantic relationships we get throughout the book. I think the book would have been just as good had most of the romantic parts left out.

The characters in this story are ordinary. The situations they find themselves in are entertaining but the characters themselves are just regular people. Dreams of the Dying is plot driven which is perfect as the plot is fantastic. 

What initially drew my attention towards reading this book was the dream aspect of it. I was certainly not disappointed by what I received. The writing is great. I devoured this book within just a few days as I hated to put it down. The fantasy and horror aspects swirl and blend together beautifully to create a horrifying experience. I was absolutely thrilled at how everything, including flashbacks, flowed so beautifully to create such a delicious story.

The presentation of this book is amazing. There was so much detail put into the book after the story ends that it just has to be recognized. It comes complete with a glossary, a break down of words to help with pronunciation, illustrations of creatures and characters and so much more. It really added to my overall experience of the book. It's a beauty of a book that I'm proud to display on my shelves.

If you are someone who enjoys a slow burn fantastical horror I highly recommend you pick this one up.

Purchase Links:

CAN - https://www.https://www.amazon.ca/Dreams-Dying-Enderal-Book-1-ebook/dp/B08CL355Y9/

US - https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Dying-Enderal-Book-1/dp/3982216729/

The Backups: A Summer of Stardom by Alex de Campi REVIEW

 The Backups: A Summer of Stardom

written by Alex de Campi

illustarted by Lara Margarida

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Synopsis:

Spending an entire summer on tour as a backup singer for pop star Nika Nitro? What?! That's the DREAM, right? Especially for Jenni, Lauren, and Maggie, three misfit performing arts students with hopes of making it in the music world.

But being twenty feet from fame isn't easy. Between crushes, constant rehearsals, Nika's sky-high expectations, and their own insecurities, this dream is starting to feel more like a nightmare. And that's before they accidentally start a beef with a rival band threatening to reveal a secret that could end Nika's career.

Can this trio of new friends come together to save the tour, or will the Backups be kept out of the spotlight forever?

Expected publication: April 13, 2021

Review:

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

The Backups: A Summer of Stardom is a sweet and wholesome story of three girls who come together to become the backup singers for Nika Nitro, the popular beautiful popstar. Jenni, Lauren and Maggie couldn't be more different, however that doesn't stop them from becoming fast friends. These girls are all charming, lovable and unique. Their story of friendship and first love is one that is sure to have any reader smiling. 

The artwork is absolutely beautiful! The bright and colorful style really captures the feel of the story. It adds a fun element to the overall reading experience. 

If you like fun graphic novels where the characters grow and learn a little this is something you should definitely give a try. It's cute, it's fun and so so sweet. 

Women Don't Owe You Pretty by Florence Given REVIEW

 Women Don't Owe You Pretty

by Florence Given

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Synopsis:

WOMEN DON'T OWE YOU PRETTY will tell you to...
love sex, hate sexism,
protect your goddamn energy,
life is short, dump them,
And that you owe men nothing, least of all pretty.

Florence's debut book will explore all progressive corners of the feminist conversation; from insecurity projection and refusing to find comfort in other women's flaws, to deciding whether to date or dump them, all the way through to unpacking the male gaze and how it shapes our identity.

WOMEN DON'T OWE YOU PRETTY is an accessible leap into feminism, for people at all stages of their journey who are seeking to reshape and transform the way they view themselves. In a world that tells women we're either not enough or too much, it's time we stop directing our anger and insecurities onto ourselves, and start fighting back to re-shape the toxic structures of our patriarchal society.

Florence's book will help you to tackle and challenge the limiting narrative you have been bombarded with your whole life, and determine feminism on your own terms. After all, you are the love of your own life.

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I didn't get what I expected from Women Don't Owe You Pretty. Maybe I set the bar too high and that's on me. I found there wasn't anything new in here that hasn't been said many times before. However, there are reasons to read this book. I feel like it would be a great introduction to feminism for a teenager to read. It covers a variety of topics that could be useful to teens without being too much of an information overload. I personally would have loved to of had this book when I was younger.

Books I Read Because of the PopSugar Reading Challenge

Books I Read Because of the PopSugar Reading Challenge

Hi Everyone, and welcome back to my blog! Have you ever done something for a Challenge or a favor for someone else and ended up loving what you did/found? That is exactly what happens to me every year I participate in the PopSugar Reading Challenge. This is my third year participating and giving it a honest try and I have really been enjoying it. I've stumbled on some books I don't think I would have read without this challenge and I wanted to share them with you. This does not include books that were already on my radar and they happened to fit prompts on the PopSugar Reading Challenge. These are books that I found when I was trying to fill these prompts. 

So without further rambling, let's get started!

2019

A book recommended by a celebrity you admire

Recommended by Stephen King

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

This was awesome! A thriller you definitely want to read!

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2020

A book on a subject you know nothing about

The Radium Girls by Kate Moore

Now my favorite non-fiction book ever!

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A book with a pink cover

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling

This is the most adorable middle grade ever. I think everyone should read this.

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A book set in Japan

I Love You So Mochi by Sarah Kuhn

I absolutely adore this book! It is the cutest romance I've ever read. The relationships are so well done all across the board. It's one of my all time favorite books.

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2021

A book that has won the Women's Prize for Fiction

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

Wow! There is a reason this book won the Women's Prize For Fiction.

I highly recommend these five books mentioned. Each one has a special place in my personal Reading Hall of Fame. As always, I'd love to know your recommendations for any books you stumbled across and loved. Please share your favorites with me! 

If you would like to take on the PopSugar Reading Challenge or even just learn more about it you can do so HERE!

If you're still with me thank you so much for reading! I appreciate every single subscriber, reader, and comment I get. Love to you all!

See you on the moon! 🌙

XOXO

She's Too Pretty to Burn by Wendy Heard REVIEW

She's Too Pretty to Burn

by Wendy Heard

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Synopsis:

The summer is winding down in San Diego. Veronica is bored, caustically charismatic, and uninspired in her photography. Nico is insatiable, subversive, and obsessed with chaotic performance art. They’re artists first, best friends second. But that was before Mick. Delicate, lonely, magnetic Mick: the perfect subject, and Veronica’s dream girl. The days are long and hot―full of adventure―and soon they are falling in love. Falling so hard, they never imagine what comes next. One fire. Two murders. Three drowning bodies. One suspect . . . one stalker. This is a summer they won’t survive.

Inspired by The Picture of Dorian Gray, this sexy psychological thriller explores the intersections of love, art, danger, and power.

Review:

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Netgalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I loved this book! Once I started reading I slipped effortlessly into its grasp where I was held tightly until it was over. It's an absolute page turner! I was on the edge of my seat for a very large portion of this book. Just when I thought it was okay to relax, things happen and I'm pushed right back to the edge. I never expected it to be so thrilling and exciting.

The writing in this book is absolutely fantastic. The story flowed wonderfully. It was an incredibly fast read and didn't feel like a 300+ page book. She's Too Pretty to Burn is told in multiple perspectives. Each character perspective is easy to differentiate from the others. This book is wonderfully told and expertly crafted.

I'd recommend this to anywho who enjoys thrilling, engaging and fun YA Thrillers.

Summer Sin by K.S. Marsden COVER REVEAL

Summer Sin

by K.S. Marsden

Hey everyone, thank you so much for stopping by. Today I am really excited to do another cover reveal for you guys and this one is a beauty! 

Summer Sin (Northern Witch #4)

As an eventful school year draws to a close, Mark has to face his greatest challenge yet.

Witches, demons and spells have quickly become the norm for Mark, but he will find that magic can't solve all of his problems.

With everyone relying on him, will Mark be able to save the day?

Or will the price of being a hero be too high?

Pre Order Link:

Available at special pre-order deal 99p (normal price £3.50/$3.99)

Purchase links: https://books2read.com/u/b5kdXO

Publication Date: 1st May

And here we go...  

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See! I told you it was beautiful!!

Author Bio

Kelly S. Marsden grew up in Yorkshire, and there were two constants in her life - books and horses.
Graduating with an equine degree from Aberystwyth University, she has spent most of her life since trying to experience everything the horse world has to offer. She is currently settled into a Nutritionist role for a horse feed company in Doncaster, South Yorkshire.

She writes Fantasy stories part-time. Her first book, The Shadow Rises (Witch-Hunter #1), was published in January 2013, and she now has several successful series under her belt. 

Social Media Links:

www.ksmarsden.com
www.goodreads.com/author/show/6905238.K_S_Marsden
www.facebook.com/ksmarsden
www.twitter.com/ksmarsden
www.instagram.com/ksmarsden