Tabitha Tomala

Kissen barely survived the sacrificial burning of her family. As her father pulled her from the fire, she lost a leg, and soon after, her father’s life in return for her own. Anger filled the void she felt from the loss of her family. Anger she turned towards the gods and dedicated herself to their destruction. Now a godkiller she takes jobs to eradicate them. Until she finds one god she cannot kill. Skedi, bound to the human girl Inara. To do so would be to harm the girl as well. And Kissen will not kill humans. Together they must journey to Blenraden, to seek out answers from the wild gods. But even the smallest request will cost them.

Kissen is a hard-edged and torn character. Due to her horrific past her mental health can be a challenge. To push through the hardest times she creates an angry wall around herself. When Skedi and Inara enter the picture, she regretfully takes them on and it will mark the start of her evolution as a character. Were it not for Inara, Kissen would have slain Skedi and moved on. Yet she has no choice but to try and separate the two first. And the more time spent with the pair, the higher risk she runs of growing attached.

Inara and Skedi make quite the duo as they travel to Blenraden. Despite warnings from Kissen, Inara sees Skedia as her best friend. It’s hard not to with the little God being her constant companion. But venturing out into the world will see their friendship and trust put to the test. One small taste of power can lead to craving more. And in the thick of want and emotion, the best people can make the wrong decision.

And amidst the stories of Kissen and company, there is one final character who slides into the plot. Elogast, an ex-knight, journeys to Belnraden to save his best friend. Having given up a life of battle to become a baker, he picks up his sword for one last quest. Yet the answer that waits for him, will be nothing he envisioned. It will turn his entire world upside down.

Godkiller will come full circle in a brilliant display of battle. The Gods are never easy to work with. They will always demand a high price. Each character will have to decide if the price is worth what they desire most. And for some, what the gods demand will rock their very cores. Readers who enjoy high-stakes dark fantasy should give this book a read.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

When Corey finds out the two people closest to her have deceived her, it begins a slow-winding spiral she can’t escape. And when one of them passes away, Corey is torn between feeling glad they are gone and guilty over the feeling itself. Corey’s journey of discovery will take her into the realm of Hades as she comes to terms with her feelings and discovers what she truly desires.

Her Dark Wings creates a modern day society based around Greek mythology. Melinda Salisbury has carefully incorporated beliefs and culture into the island’s people, laying the foundations of Corey’s tale. When Corey is whisked away to the underworld, the imagery paints a vivid picture for readers to become immersed in. Her new surroundings force Corey to face the bitter truths.

The themes surrounding forgiveness and overcoming betrayal create an emotionally packed story. Corey is the type of character to form bonds quickly when shown kindness, even if there are red flags. This leads to a building of tension among the characters as Corey discovers their true intentions. And even though she understands the godly being she befriends cannot relate to her human life, she wants to connect with them on an emotional level. Corey's need for companionship will lead her down darker roads. Ones that threaten to change who she is at her very core.

Her Dark Wings is a modern retelling of Hades and Persephone with all the young adult emotion one could hope for. And while one of the catalysts of the story is a relationship gone wrong, the writing focuses on Corey's recovery and ability to move forward. The story isn’t afraid to explore the darker parts of our personalities, and the struggle it can be to forgive. This is a great entry into mythology retellings.

Thank you to Escapist Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Cimeren lies divided between the North and South. Each is ruled by different sovereigns. In a move to secure the safety of his people, King Igare ordered the abduction of the Southern King and Queen. But on the cusp of victory, betrayal disrupts carefully laid plans. A chain of events pulls Cyran and his fellow dragonsquires into a battle they are ill-prepared for. Dragon Queen Sirra seeks vengeance on those who dare to harm her King and Queen. Alongside her shadow dragon, she will cut down any who get in her way.

R.M. Schultz takes time to immerse readers in the world of Through Blood and Dragons. Political tension runs high as rumors of the Southern king and queen's fate travel to their subjects. Multiple viewpoints will show how each side weighs the repercussions and options open to them. For each character, their personal beliefs and goals will weigh heavily on the paths they choose to take.

Through Blood and Dragons has a healthy dose of politics. Before making any decisions, King Igare’s dragonguard ensures to weigh the risk and rewards of any move they make. And though Sirra and her dragonguard are quick to action, they too have lengthy dialogue discussing what has occurred and their various angles of attack. While this does cause the story to slow down, once each side commits to their chosen strategy, the action ramps up.

There is a wide array of dragons presented as the novel dives into the first of what promises to be many conflicts throughout the series. And due to their own moral code dragons do not use breath weapons against their own kind. This leads to vicious battles of teeth and claws. But that’s not all. Mounted on the dragons are archers, a warrior, and a mage. While the mage aids in piloting the dragon, the others do their best to fight with the dragons and take out as many enemies as possible. This leads to battles with many moving parts and nonstop action.

If you enjoy epic fantasy with a heavy dose of political intrigue and dragons, Through Blood and Dragons may be the book for you. Throughout the novel there are beautiful pieces of art depicting the various dragons and their riders to help accent the overall journey readers will embark on.

Reyna and Kianthe dream of the day they can run away together. To leave behind the politics of kingdoms and enjoy each other's company in a quaint little shop. One with a warm welcoming atmosphere where friends can share a cup of tea and purchase books. When Reyna’s life is put on the line for a Queen who could care less about her, she realizes it’s time to go. To seek out that dream of a peaceful life with her girlfriend by her side.

The shop Reyna and Kianthe dream of sounds like the perfect place for anyone who enjoys books and tea. Readers will be able to live vicariously through the two characters as they seize the chance to chase their dreams. Building the shop from the ground up and transforming a building no one thought could be more than a thieves' den. And by doing so they also make themselves part of the community of Tawney. Creating a network of friends and acquaintances who become family.

Reyna and Kianthe are an adorable couple and balance each other so well. While their internal struggles may cause mishaps along the way, they’re dedicated to each other. They own up to their mistakes and encourage open communication. Are they perfect? No, absolutely not. But the way they recognize when something goes wrong and work together to figure things out is wonderful.

Not only are the characters a delight to read but there is an underlying mystery that will be carried throughout the series. One involving dragons and their ever present threat to the town of Tawney. Add to this the sense of time ticking down for Reyna. After all, it's only a matter of time before the Queen finds her. And balanced between it all are the precious moments among the two main characters and their found family.

Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea is for fans of Legends and Lattes. It is another wonderful serving of cozy fantasy. If you have ever dreamed of owning a bookstore that serves tea, this is the book for you.

This review is also featured on <a href=https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-alchemist-and-an-amaretto-by-annette-marie-book-review>Behind the Pages: The Alchemist and an Amaretto</a>

It’s the holidays and Aaron’s off to visit his family at their home/mage academy. With Tori, Sin, Ezra, and Kai along for the ride. Worried about their first encounter with Aaron’s parents, Tori begins to overthink. But she’ll soon find it will be the least of her problems. Students are being attacked in the woods outside the academy. And the staff are blaming it on animal attacks. When Tori and crew are attacked, they’ll find out there’s definitely something more dangerous than wild dogs in the woods.

Annette Marie never fails to entice readers with creative twists on well-known lore. This time around it’s her own version of the lycanthrope curse. And even though the boys are some of the most powerful magic users, situations will arise where they are challenged by the new foes they must face down.

In the last novel, readers were able to dig further into Ezra’s backstory. In The Alchemist and an Amaretto, Aaron’s family drama is brought full front and center. Tori will see an entirely different side to Aaron brought on by the influence of those in the academy. And her worldview of what others think of the Crow and Hammer guild will be expanded. It’s entirely new rules of engagement when the fancier guilds are involved. To some, it doesn’t matter if a guild feels like home, or is loyal to a fault. Instead, they would prefer titles and prestige.

And adding to the mix of action and drama is the attraction Tori is beginning to feel. Romantic interests usually don’t carry much weight for me, but the way Annette Marie slowly builds in Tori’s is great. The dawning realization of what her feelings mean and if she should act upon them is realistic and at times heartbreaking. Not to mention the strong bonds of protection and love she feels for all of her companions make Tori such an amazing character to follow. She would do anything and everything to save her friends.

The Alchemist and an Amaretto was another fantastic addition to the Guild Codex: Spellbound. There’s always a new mystery to uncover and a new foe to take down. And along the way, Tori and the others learn more about themselves and what each of them means to one another. I can’t recommend this series enough.

While each crew member aboard Dormire was cloned in the event of their death, all six never imagined waking up at the exact same time. And to wake up amidst their murder scene is one of the most unsettling encounters to experience. Especially when your mind map is missing decades of memories. Together the crew must find out what happened and who wiped out the entire crew.

This clone murder mystery is one of the most gripping sci-fi stories I have ever read. Readers will be cast into the anxieties and doubts of each crew member. Chapter by chapter the point of view will change allowing readers to see everyone’s inner thoughts and experiences. And the pieces of information are expertly revealed, laying out a maze of possibilities the reader and characters must navigate. You’ll be guessing right up until the end who was responsible.

Six Wakes also explores a myriad of ethical dilemmas. The crew members have their own opinions on clones and their rights. And given the various ages of clones on board, they have witnessed historical moments in clone history. The good and the bad. Each crew member has deep seeded secrets and past regrets that could have pushed them over the edge. Not to the one debate hanging over all their heads. Just because the previous version of someone committed murder, does that mean the new clone should be held responsible? What if within 25 years, something happened to trigger the event, but it would never happen again?

This was a phenomenal read. Six Wakes will pull readers in and refuse to let go. The science fiction elements are easy to digest and accent the overall world-building and plot. I highly recommend this to fans of murder mysteries and sci-fi.

When Professor Lovell finds Robin sick with Cholera, waiting for the illness to take him as it has his entire family, he hands Robin a silver bar. Once the words engraved on it are spoken, Robin finds his body healing. Whisked away from his home in Canton, Robin is placed in the Professor's home and begins studying a variety of languages. And Robin soon learns the roof over his head and food in his belly comes at a price. He has no choice but to excel in his studies. And as he joins Oxford University's translation program, that price will rise even higher.

The first half of Babel lays down the foundations of the world and political ideologies. The British Empire views foreigners as nothing more than tools to be used. Enlisting those with the ability to dream in their native language to extort their abilities at silver working. But the students of Oxford University’s translation program chosen to do silver working must study various languages for years. And while they are given a roof over their head, and money in their pockets, it is nothing short of extortion. If they do not live up to the University’s needs, all the pleasantries will be taken away.

The history and language development took over half of the book to solidify. For readers who enjoy in-depth and detailed worldbuilding, Babel will be the perfect read for you. However, for those who prefer to see an even mix of character development alongside world-building, this will not be an easy read. Once the foundations are laid down, events escalate rather quickly and the pacing takes off. Yet there is a marked point where it once again falls away as the characters settle on a slower path of choices leading to the end of the novel. This uneven pacing almost left Babel as a DNF.

However, the silver working itself was fascinating. Students of Babel are able to match word pairs and engrave them onto silver bars to enable magical effects. Depending on the pair, the bars can be used to make a carriage go faster, make someone turn invisible, or be weaponized. The possibilities are endless. But it requires the engraver to have a wealth of knowledge of languages. Given this detail, it makes sense for the beginning of the novel to focus so heavily on languages. Yet, there is only a brief time spent on silver working and the bars do not fully come into play until near the end of the story. Had the silver working been more active in the story and more time spent on the students working with silver, the story may have been more entertaining.

Babel is a book for those who enjoy historical fiction. Do not approach this book expecting it to be filled with fantastical elements. If the creation of languages and root words fascinates you, this will be a wonderful read. But for those who prefer more magic and fantasy, you may want to pass on this one.

Abby and Gretchen are best friends, and no matter what they stick together. Even if one of them becomes possessed. During an experimental party with friends Gretchen goes missing, and when she’s found something isn’t quite right. Little by little the girl Abby’s best friend dissolves into a nervous unkempt person. And when people start being hurt around her, Abby knows something has to give. But no one is listening. Friends, teachers, parents, even priests push aside the strange behavior. It’s up to Abby to free Gretchen from the demon possessing her body.

Grady Hendrix knows exactly how to set a scene. There is no denying My Best Friend’s Exorcism takes place in the 80s. From the pop culture references to the conservative ideals the adults are teaching the children. When Abby does her best to help Gretchen, no adults want to believe her. Each excuse they come up with is a stark reminder of the timeframe the story takes place in. Readers will be taken aback by what now seems like strange ideas adults had about their children. Throughout the novel there are also old school flyers and newspaper articles that cement the behaviors readers are witnessing.

But despite the opposition Abby faces, she does her best to help Gretchen. And Grady Hendrix keeps Abby’s actions age appropriate. He paints a solid picture of a kid who just wants to help her friend and has no idea how to do so. She turns to the adults for help, knowing they should be the best chance at helping Gretchen. Each new excuse the adults craft becomes one more step away from hope for Abby. An overwhelming sense of dread and panic develops for both Abby and the reader as events continue to escalate.

With each turn of the page, the tone of the story grows in intensity. When the tipping point finally comes for Abby, her salvation occurs in a rather odd character. One who’s actions and attitude don’t mesh well with the tones of the story. While it may have been a way to lighten the burden on reader’s emotions, the Exorcist breaks up the tension a bit too much. With long monologuing dialogue and ditzy behavior, the moment seems to shatter and stumble a bit before regaining traction.

However, Abby’s quest to save Gretchen is filled with unsettling and creepy imagery. My Best Friend's Exorcism is perfect for those who enjoy 80s horror novels. And while there may have been moments that interrupted the story pacing, once it got back on track it really took off. If you're a reader who enjoys possession based horror, this is the story for you.

Rabbit’s world changed when she was sold into Imperial labor and chosen as a handmaiden for the new empress In-Yo. Despite being from different backgrounds, both Rabbit and In-Yo had no choice in their fates. When In-Yo is exiled, Rabbit faithfully follows and together the two friends seek retribution. When Cleric Chih and their recorded bird Almost Brilliant cross paths with Rabbit, the tale of her campaign with In-Yo begins to unfold.

The Empress of Salt and Fortune is told in storyteller fashion as Rabbit reveals the life she led beside the Empress. Nghi Vo draws the reader in gradually and pulls back at key moments to evoke mystery and anticipation. Each time Rabbit will ask Chih and Almost Brilliant if they understand the story. While the story seems straightforward, the mystery revolves around the words Rabbit isn’t telling. The context between the lines the reader and characters must piece together with each new tale. This technique brought the story to a personal level for Rabbit. As she reflected on her memories the reader was not only told the story but was also able to see the emotional impact it held for Rabbit.

Each new piece granted to the reader reveals another layer of the world, showing the cruelty of imperial rule and the need for a new path to be set. The delicate nature required for In-Yo to make an impact incorporated elements of lore and fortune telling. Despite being novella length, there is no question of what influenced In-Yo and Rabbit’s path. And while there are some lingering questions surrounding the Clerics and recorder birds, there must be some mystery left over for future novellas.

This story was emotionally impactful, and constantly moving forward. Despite taking breaks between tales for side conversations, every moment capitalized on the displayed emotions and cultivated a compelling reading experience. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy Asian inspired tales dedicated to the need for women's voices to be heard and recognized.

After a painful loss at the end of the last battle, Ryris and his friends must face ever-growing odds. The army of dead continues to rise as Roann rampages across the land. But as much as Ryris and the others want to put a stop to the necromancer, they are no match for him. Yet. It’s time for Ryris and the others to circle their forces and push themselves to new heights. Only by delving into the past and challenging themselves, can they face the future with any hope of taking down Roann.

Ryris has gone through a complete transformation due to the losses he’s had to endure. And the road forward will be even more treacherous. L.A. Wasielewski has done a brilliant job of transforming the carefree Alchemist into a battle-hardened mage. I would hardly recognize Ryris if I went back and read the first novel. And yet despite all he has faced, he still has a long way to go before he can even think of facing down Roann.

The tone of this final novel delves into even darker territory. Roann enjoys torturing anyone close to Ryris, as any pain caused to the alchemist brings Roann joy. And while the resolve of some characters may be large, the depth of injuries Roann causes to some is beyond disturbing. Details spent on these scenes I wish had been transferred to smoothing out transitions.

It can be a little jarring when the characters are moving from one area to another. Without a smooth transition, readers have to refocus on how and where the characters are. But once the reader catches on again the final Alchemist book is near nonstop action. Desperation seeps into the pages as Ryris and company try to combat the overbearing powers of necromancy. For every soldier that falls fighting against Roann, they rise once again to fight mindlessly alongside him.

The Alchemist: Awakening is filled with brutal conflict and emotional upheavals. Each battle raises the stakes higher and higher. Characters are forced to face their own limitations and push themselves ever closer to the edge of what they can handle. This is a story for readers who enjoy large climactic struggles and generous amounts of character development.

A magical pact ensures peace between humans and old ones in the land of Mynyw. But unrest threatens to nullify the ancient agreement and promises war if it breaks. Maddoc, son of The Lady of the Lake, must find out who seeks to break the pact and stop them from succeeding. Meanwhile, Black Hind sails for Mynyw on a mission for the new king of Terrania. Rumors say a young queen is amassing an army to take back Terraina and start the hunt for Old Ones once more. When Maddoc and the Black Hind crew cross paths, they find that their goals may not be so different.

As promised at the end of book one, The Pact opens the world for readers to explore alongside Black Hind. A host of new lore will greet readers as they navigate the tumultuous fey paths and encounter new mythical communities. Similar to The Skin, the folklore presented in The Pact was entirely new to me. I love when authors focus on lore from various cultures and incorporate elements I’ve never read about. Add to that the ability JE Hannaford has to create heartfelt characters the readers can’t help but feel a connection to.

Still reeling from loss, Selkie and the crew of Black Hind are emotionally spent. Grief is never easy to overcome, especially with the constant reminders aboard Black Hind. Yet they still have old ones to return to their homes. J.E. Hannaford does a brilliant job showing how characters can have conflicts with one another, and though they may not see eye to eye, find ways to work alongside each other because of a common goal. The dynamics between characters are stunning and show how complex relationships can become.

But the crew of Black Hind aren’t the only characters who have complexities in their journey. Maddoc, half human half fey, must tread carefully with any interaction he has with his kin. And as Maddoc’s journey becomes entangled with Black Hind, readers will see how different the fey and old ones can be. Each has their own set of beliefs and values, adding to the richness of the lore. Despite some characters only having a small amount of time on the page, they make a big impact on the reader with their reactions to the pact growing ever closer to breaking.

And as both parties do everything they can to save the pact and accomplish their goals, the reader is ever aware of time ticking down. The foreboding atmosphere hanging above every action and mistake makes the character’s choices all the more important. And just when the reader thinks nothing else could go wrong, another wrench will be thrown into the characters’ plans.

With an exceptional cast of characters and a wonderful theme of found family, The Pact was a rewarding finale to the Black Hind duology. I am sad to see both the characters and the world come to a close. Fantasy readers who enjoy folklore and seafaring adventures need to pick up this duology.

Wallace was a cranky man who only viewed the bottom line. Whether people made small mistakes or big mistakes, once they crossed that line they were out of his life. Up until the day he died. And as a ghost, he watched his own funeral, unsatisfied with the crowd and their reactions. When a reaper guides him to his next destination, a tea shop containing the door to his final resting place, Wallace is faced with the reality of his life. And bit by bit, the tea shop residents begin to chip away at Wallace’s tough exterior.

Wallace is set up to be an unlikable character. His actions and internal dialogue paint the picture of an ignorant man who wants things his way or not at all. And the side effect of people becoming emotional or detached is viewed through a lens of disconnection. Even after death Wallace digs his heels in and refuses to admit he was ever wrong. Until his daily interactions with Hugo, the reaper May and fellow ghosts break through to show him just how insufferable he was.

But Wallace holds himself back from forming connections, building walls between himself and others. It forced the character relationships to start and stop in their development and slowed the pacing as well. Each time there was a shred of hope for Wallace to improve his relationship, the lens of disconnection appeared and made the interactions less impactful. That’s not to say there isn’t any character development, it just takes a long time for Wallace to begin. And when he does start to evolve, the emotions behind his actions aren't strong enough to connect with the reader.

Under the Whispering Door does a good job of showing the beauty of living a fulfilling life. And while there aren’t many jokes woven into the tale, Apollo the ghost dog is sure to make a few readers laugh. His antics around anyone he doesn’t enjoy are hilarious as a normal person can’t see him, or feel when he decides they should be peed on.

While this story is slower-paced than other TJ Klune novels, it still has great underlying themes. I would recommend this to those who are looking for a lighter read about life after death, and quirky characters who try to do their best to help people cross over.

Down on her luck and with one negative event after another, Nora decides to take her own life. But as she slips into unconsciousness, she’ll find herself in the Midnight Library. A place where each book is a different version of her life, led by the decisions she never made. Poised between life and death, Nora has the ability to see the different paths she could have taken. And as she journeys through each of these lives, if she can find one where she is truly happy, she can stay to live out the rest of her days.

Nora is able to reflect on all the decisions she made in her life. From break ups to chosen careers path, each book in the library will show her how life could have been. Not all are filled with happiness. Nora will find some of her decisions were for the better as the life she could have lived ended in heartbreak and suffering. And some of the more glamorous paths, painted over the cracks in her life in order to make them seem whole. It was fascinating to see the string of possibilities with each new journey Nora took and the positives and negatives each life revealed. It brought to light the notion that there is no perfect life, yet happiness can still be found.

There were some encounters in Nora’s journey that seemed out of place. In particular, when Nora runs into another person traveling through lives there was a quick romantic encounter with no charisma or spark. The focus of the story is on Nora overcoming her regrets and learning what would truly make her happy. There was no lead in or foreshadowing to say this encounter would help Nora along in her journey. If anything, bonding with another traveler on a more intimate level should have enhanced the experience, but not enough time was spent between the two characters.

However, there is a pivotal point in The Midnight Library where Nora faces an immense adversary. And while adrenaline and fear are running through her body, she comes to startling clarifications about herself and what she wants to achieve. In this moment Matt Haig personified Nora’s battle against mental illness. The way it can creep up on a person and take hold, not allowing them to take action and fight. Yet despite it all Nora fought her way through the fear and found it within herself to fight for her life.

The Midnight Library is a fascinating look into what can happen in alternate lives. Please note this book may be triggering to some as the catalyst is Nona taking her life. But it also contains messages of hope. Each life Nora experiences drives her towards a better understanding of happiness and how to let go of past regrets. This is a book for readers who enjoy motivational stories with a hint of sci-fi.

When the MPD shows up for a surprise investigation at The Crow and Hammer, Tori is snuck out the back door and told to lay low. Faced with the possibility her time at the guild has come to an end, Tori throws back a few shots of whiskey and tries to avoid thinking about it. Just as she’s reaching a nice level of buzz, two witches show up at her door. Fey have begun to go missing, and they believe dark magic users are enslaving them. The witches ask for help from The Crow and Hammer, and Tori unknowingly signs up the guild for the investigation.

With the threat of being cast out fresh in her mind, Tori begins to overthink and spread doubt over every relationship she’s formed with the guild members. The only comparison she has are the human coworkers turned friends who ultimately dumped her when she left a job. And while she mulls over the what-ifs, readers will watch as Tori uncovers the fact she enjoys being part of the magical community. It is by no means safe, but she’s found a kinship among the guild members. It’s disheartening to see how quickly Tori believes everyone will abandon her despite reassurances.

But when the witches show up at her door, Tori has to explain how she somehow involved the guild with the fey disappearances. And true to the nature of the series, Tori ends up right in the middle of it all. As Tori and the boys take on the investigation, things go sideways pretty quickly. And despite best efforts, Tori ends up in the dark arts casting the guild was sent to interrupt. Choosing between running away, or letting a dark magic guild enslave a powerful fey, Tori opts to save the fey. And unknowingly causes herself a world of magical trouble.

With the MPD already sniffing around, Tori’s playing with fire. But to save herself from the repercussion magic is ready to unleash on her, she has to dive deeper into the mythic community. And along the way, she’s going to uncover dark secrets about those she calls friends. Her relationships will be put to the test as the revelations snowball into all aspects of her life. Tempers will run high and when boundaries are crossed, Tori won’t be able to keep all the pieces together.

Two Witches and a Whiskey is another fun installment of The Guild Codex. It’s beginning to dive into the deeper aspects of Tori’s life while still maintaining a steady dose of magical mayhem. Each book uncovers another aspect of the mythic community, immersing readers in a world that is sure to keep entertaining them.

Thank you to Write Reads and Penguin Books for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Poised on the edge of a dock, on a cold February morning, Avery is ready to die. College was supposed to be the restart she needed. The place where she could finally be herself, but nothing has worked out the way she thought it would. Then she learns an asteroid is heading for Earth and there are only nine days left to live. Avery chooses to step back from the water and be with her loved ones for the end of the world. After all, it’s nine more days. Yet as time runs out, Avery will discover what it means to live once more.

Jen St. Jude tells Avery’s story through a combination of past and present, showing Avery’s path to discovering who she is and how depression began to take hold. The writing does a wonderful job of bringing to light tough subjects such as mental health, sexuality, and homophobia. All of which Avery faces throughout the course of the novel. And Jen St. Jude does this with such care, outlining Avery’s struggles to readers in a way that allows them to understand her and see where Avery is coming from.

There are many moments in this book where the reader will feel uncomfortable and displaced alongside Avery. From offhanded comments to religious undertones of worthiness, Avery’s struggle is brought to life in startling clarity. But there is also a thread of hope woven into the story. When the asteroid forces Avery to change her decision, she will take her first few steps toward a new reality. One that may end in nine days, but will show her the beauty of what life can be and how to enjoy her remaining time alongside loved ones.

If Tomorrow Doesn’t Come is a truly powerful novel. The characters leap from the page and lodge themselves firmly in the reader’s hearts. Avery’s struggle to be herself and be accepted is heartbreaking. From trying to feel at home in her own body, to searching for acceptance for who she is, Avery's journey will be sure to touch the hearts of readers.

Thank you to Escapist Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Idari is an android Stargun Messenger with an AI named CR-UX inhabiting her spaceship. Together they travel the systems chasing down stolen space fuel called filamentium. Until one such heist puts them face to face with a living star named Emera. It’s then they learn the terrible truth about filamentium. It’s made from the blood of stars, and Emera may be the last one. Idari and CR-UX have a choice, turn Emera in and receive the largest reward they’ve ever seen, or help her reach the one place where Emera can save her dying race.

The dynamics between Idari and CR-UX are sure to entertain any reader. CR-UX is like an extension of Idari’s conscience and is constantly urging her to make what it deems are the correct decisions. And Idari is quick to shoot CR-UX down and sarcastically reply to the AI’s logic. And as the story progresses, so too does their relationship to one another. While they create a wonderful atmosphere of sarcastic humor, they’ll also latch onto the reader’s heart as well.

And then there is Idari’s battle with her self-image and humanity. As an android, she’s able to back up copies of herself, but would a copy truly be Idari? Memory space is finite and CR-UX is constantly picking which memories to keep for her. But what truly makes a person human? Is it the memories they carry? Their actions? The body they wear? Emera’s journey forces Idari to confront her inner feelings and identity. The path to Idari’s self-discovery is messy and filled with poor choices, but each choice helps solidify who Idari is as a person.

The backdrop of space travel and visiting distant planets accompanies the characters. And Darby Harn does a fantastic job showing the wide array of settings and races in the universe. My favorites were Gilf and Kibir, brother Kibuts who traveled for a time with Idari and crew. They spoke in their native tongue, but there was no need for a translation. The writing was cleverly built to allow readers to understand them with both dialogue queues and reactions from the characters.

Stargun Messenger is a book for readers who enjoy space heists and exploring the concept of what makes us human. There’s also a dash of romance and complicated relationships, where not everything is entirely as it seems. Space opera sci-fi readers, give this one a try.

Thank you to BBNYA for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Readers are introduced early on to the tenuous setting of Karolene, where guards may pull innocents from the streets without provocation. Hitomi herself is targeted within the first few pages as slurs are thrown at her appearance and guards give chase. But the people of the market refuse to allow her capture, and with the help of many a kind hand, she escapes. It’s no wonder Hitomi works with the Shadow League, seeking to thwart any plans of the Arch Mage Wilhelm Blackflame.

And it helps when Hitomi knows how to keep a secret. For she’s been keeping one all her life. Both her heritage and her ability in magic would land her in the Arch Mage’s sights. But when she enlists to help the Shadow League save a family from death, all she’s kept hidden threatens to be revealed. A simple plan to move the family out of Karolene is undermined by betrayal, and Hitomi finds herself captured along with the family she tried to save.

The secret league and hidden agendas of Blackflame will hook readers in as they traverse the streets of Karolene. And there are quite a few mysterious hints dropped at Hitomi’s magical potential. As she overcomes mishaps and challenges strewn across her path, Hitomi will show readers how determined she is to protect the family and save herself. And as she is drawn deeper into the supernatural side of the world, new bands of mythical creatures will come to light.

Vampires and Lynchthropes are a common sight in fantasy tales, but Intisar Khanani puts her own twist on them. Readers will be introduced to a few familiar traits, yet some surprising twists as well. Underlying tension and history among the races will also be teased, though you will be left wanting more information. There is a wealth of knowledge and world-building still left to be discovered in the series. While the magic system is introduced through Hitomi, there isn’t a clear path of how it works, or the ways in which spells can be crafted.

However, Sunbolt is exactly the book needed to set up the world and entice the reader into the possibilities still left to discover. There is unfinished business between Hitomi and quite a few characters like breadcrumbs dropped to lure readers back for answers. I’m certainly looking forward to the new path Hitomi has been placed on and what she will do with the knowledge she is set to attain.

A magic user called The Ghost has been abducting teenagers from the magical community. When Aaron, Kai, and Ezra begin to investigate and find no leads they ask Tori for help. Dressed up as a tarot card reading runaway, Tori becomes the Ghosts’ newest bait. But before the boys can capture him, she’s teleported away. Finding herself on a farm in the middle of nowhere, with no backup and no way for the boys to find her, Tori has to find her own way home. But not before she rescues the girl she promised to help.

Now that book one developed the world and Tori’s character, Dark Arts and a Daiquiri dives into what it’s like to take on a guild mission. And true to Tori’s style, she ends up in the middle of it all. But this time there is a deliciously morally gray character called The Ghost. A figure most mage guilds back away from the minute they find out he’s involved in a job. Given the choice to turn tail and run, or take a chance to save someone, Tori walks headfirst into danger and finds herself abducted.

Survival with The Ghost is nothing Tori imagined it to be. He may be a powerful caster, but he has his own moral code. One that does not allow harm to come to those he deems innocent and under his protection. Yet with one wrong move, he’ll have no problem adding Tori to his victim count. And of course, he is an extremely attractive man. One whose pretty face can cause the perfect distraction in order to gain the upper hand.

As Tori navigates how to deal with The Ghost, readers are given a glimpse into her past. While hints were dropped during book one, readers will experience full flashbacks of Tori’s not-so-happy home life growing up. And it will fit the pieces together of who she has become as a person, and why she is so set on saving the girl abducted by The Ghost.

Dark Arts and a Daiquiri is another fast-paced ride with a great blend of characters. Adding in The Ghost upped the ante and forced Tori to meet a host of new magical creatures. And witnessing Tori navigate the dangers of magical battle as a human never grows old. She has to be quick on her feet and intuitive. I’m looking forward to the next adventure!Review on the way!

Thank you to Escapist Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

On Adalynn’s twenty-first birthday, she is finally able to enlist in the Rothschan military. With the extra funds provided by her employment, she can help her parents and make long-needed repairs on their home. But the day she enlists, an accident sets the enlistment office on fire and forces Adalynn to run for her life. Uncontrollable magic has awakened within her and the kingdom of Rothschan is no longer safe. Adalynn flees to Calia, where she hopes to learn control over her power. But Renton won’t let her escape so easily. With the Rothschan army at his back, Renton is determined to bring the Kingdom of Calia to its knees and capture Adalynn.

Rachanee Lumayno never fails to embrace the bonds of family in each of her novels. Within just a few short chapters the reader can feel how close Adalynn and her parents are. And this makes it all the more heartbreaking when she must leave them behind on her flight from Rothschan. On her own for the first time, Adalynn battles with the uncertainty of her future and a sudden influx of power she never imagined could be real. Sheltered to believe Rotschan was a Kingdom of strict yet fair laws and magic was a myth, she has a lot to learn.

As Adalynn navigates life in Calia, she embraces an entirely new culture of magic and acceptance. While it may take her a while to adjust, she is quick to form new friendships. And when the stakes are increasingly raised, Adalynn will have to rely on her newfound friends to overcome the odds. Readers will be captivated as Adalynn stands alongside her fellows, ready to face down whatever new obstacles Renton throws in their path.

Heir of Magic and Mischance takes readers on a magic-filled adventure with a wonderful cast of characters. There will also be a few character appearances and mentions from the previous novels in the Kingdom Legacy Series. I enjoy how each novel is its own adventure and can be read separately or in order. Though reading them out of order may spoil the previous novels. If you enjoy easy-to-read, lighter-hearted fantasy novels give this one a try!

The Third Poppy War may have ended, but the Dragon Warlord still seeks to conquer the land. Adrift and on the run with her Cike, Rin is swept up into the Warlord’s plan. Start a civil war and from the ashes create a new democratic Republic. But Empress Daji will never give up her hold. Honed for war, Rin jumps to the cause and with her Phoenix God aims to end Daji’s rule once and for all.

The Dragon Republic is a brutal tale of war and how it touches the lives of everyone forced to be a part of it. The devastation wrought by the character’s previous choices in The Poppy War will be exposed in this second novel. R.F. Kuang broadens the reader's awareness of the famine and destruction causing thousands to become refugees. And as the characters witness the results of their actions, the mental battle begins as they come to terms with what they have done. Or, some simply turn to addiction to seal away the emotions, refusing to confront what has occurred.

Throughout the novel, Rin is at war with herself. Torn between doing what she believes is her purpose, and dealing with the aftershocks. A snap decision on the field of battle may secure a victory, but what happens after the dust has settled and the bodies lay festering? The Dragon Republic shows how a girl raised to believe she is a tool to be used, can turn into one of the deadliest soldiers. And how the conflicting emotions of choices made in the heat of battle can haunt a person long after the battle has ended.

Rin is an unlikeable character. Oftentimes she is both selfish and self-destructive. Instead of facing her problems, she charges ahead, keeping her mind busy with war and who will be her next target. It is easier to be angry and strike out at those around her versus owning up to her past mistakes. But at the same time, R.F. Kuang uses Rin’s moments of weakness to show how she became such a detrimental character.

This grimdark military fantasy will spare no one. Be prepared to dive into the darkest depths of war, and all the chaotic and tangled relationships that come along with it. Choosing a side isn’t so easy when friends are on the opposite one. But war is war, and Rin will live up to her full potential as a deadly shaman no matter the costs.

Thank you to A.K.M. Beach for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Ysoldette braved the banshee Lady Vago’s ire and listened to the woman’s tale of loss and grief. Imbuing herself with Lady Vago’s memories and tethering herself to a source of anguish, she promises to free her. Pulled towards the town of Basalt Ridge, somewhere within lies the sorcerer who doomed the Vago Household. And in the woods, horrendous beasts prey on any who dare to linger. Tormented day and night, the people of Basalt Ridge have lost hope. Ysoldette and the holy company she rides with will have their faith tested as they battle against a seething evil and its minions.

The atmosphere of Lady Vago's Absolution will send a chill down the reader’s spine. The town of Basalt Ridge is picturesque of rot and ruin brought on by unholy sorcery. And as the characters pursue their quest, new horrors are unearthed. There is only so far the power of light can reach before the shadows threaten to overtake it. And as readers are drawn farther down the path of darkness, they will find all manner of ghosts and grotesque creatures the company must face. Not all will be able to hold faith. The torment each suffers as they come to terms with their limitations is gut wrenching.

Lady Vago’s Absolution introduces readers to the fascinating magic system of Bibliomancy. Based on a person’s faith, those who call upon the holy power must draw from a golden dragon. Items are enchanted with the dragon’s holiness, but with use lose their magic. Ysoldette and the nobles call upon their magic with various uses of meditation, holy artifacts, prayer, and herbs. Ysoldette herself has an unconventional way of using her power, and for this, she is looked down upon by the other nobles. Some may even say she balances on the edge of blasphemy.

Ysoldette is overshadowed by her heritage. Though she travels with the High Lord and the cleansing party, she is the only commoner among them. And while her abilities may be effective against the darkness, she doesn’t follow the strict guidelines of bibliomancy. There are many terse words thrown at her despite the discoveries she makes and the spirits she puts to rest. Yet she persists, at the cost of her own life and faith to do what she knows is right. Ysoldette’s character progression is complex and rife with self-doubt and inner turmoil. The perfect mix for a gothic novel.

While Lady Vago’s Absolution encompasses a wider world than the original novel, it also allows the reader to experience even more delightfully gothic elements. The characters are each unique and plagued by their own desires and tests of faith. The overshadowing mystery torments not only the characters but the reader as well, demanding answers and a resolution to feelings of distress. If you enjoy gothic fantasy novels, you must read this duology.

This was a DNF. Exposition in the middle of multiple action sequences is not a writing style for me. I prefer organic world building to info dumps.

The Order of Sardo has deemed Nerana evil due to her innate ability with magic. There are few safe places left for Nerana to hide, for the Order has spread tales of false treachery. And if Nerana dares to use her magic, the Order has placed a curse on her, allowing them to hunt her down. When she learns of an artifact able to break her curse, Nerana eagerly sets out to find it. But finding the artifact alone will not be enough.

Curse of the Fallen jumps readers right into the moment as Nerana and her comrades steal an item called the arun. But their heist isn’t so easily won as they find they must disenchant it first. Readers will be taken on an action-filled journey as Nerana quests to disenchant the arun and break her curse. Along the way H.C. Newell does a wonderful job building up the tensions of the world and how the Order of Sardo has convinced people of Nerana's supposed evil. There certainly is something causing the dark creatures of myth to come alive and torment souls once more. But can it truly be caused by Nerana’s abilities, or is she a clever scapegoat?

The parallel progression of Nerana’s quest and the increasingly horrific encounters she and her friends experience will hook readers into the story. But there were a few moments where consistency waned. Nerana herself mentions how the Order is able to track her down when she uses her magic. And there are times when she has no choice but to use her magic. Yet when she is found after these events, Nerana seems confused how she was able to be located. This doesn’t make the story any less enjoyable, as each encounter is laced with conflict and close calls.

Curse of the Fallen has a unique way of using footnotes. Instead of large moments of exposition, readers are given the option to learn more by reading footnotes. If you aren’t reading for worldbuilding, then skip the footnotes and stick to the action. But if you are a reader who enjoys learning about the details of a world, then the footnotes are there to help. Though I do wish a bit more of Nerana’s backstory had been introduced to readers earlier on, once the story delves into it I found myself connecting the dots from prior scenes.

Readers who enjoy grimdark tales should give this one a try. While it may start off with a heist, Curse of the Fallen grows darker with each turn of the page. And when readers reach the emotionally charged end of this particular journey, they will find themselves longing for the next book.

Julius has never been the strongest or the most powerful in his dragon clan. To survive, he has kept out of the way of his ambitious siblings and hidden. But his mother has had enough of his passive behavior. Sealed into a human body, Bethesda throws Julius into the DFZ. A land ruled by spirits who abhor dragons. Julius has to hit the ground running and prove he can be a dragon without being caught. Or else he becomes his mother’s next meal.

Julius is not the typical main character who is powerful and capable or even one who starts off weaker and grows into an alpha male. He’s never wanted to be a normal dragon, which means he isn’t going to be dominant or overbearing. He’s bullied by his family and looked down on for being kind and considerate. While at times his easygoing nature may wear on readers, there’s also the interest in seeing what exactly he can accomplish. His physical and magical skills may not be enough for his fellow dragons, but his mind can be just as influential.

Despite Julius being less dominant than his siblings, he is still determined to protect those he considers friends. When he and the mage Marci team up, they end up being pulled into each other's problems. But instead of abandoning her, Julius stays by her side and weathers the oncoming storms. Of course, it helps that Julius’s brother Justin is pulled into the mix.

Rachel Aaron chooses wisely to have Julius overshadowed by his brother Justin throughout the story. Justin is everything a typical dragon would be, and his plans are abrasive and violent. With such a huge contrast between the two dragons, readers are able to see Julius’ capabilities in a different light. And experiencing the two arguing about tactics was nothing less than entertaining.

I would recommend Nice Dragons Finish Last to readers looking for an action-packed yet simple to read urban fantasy. And if you’d like to see an entirely different type of dragon, check out this novel. Sure they may be able to breathe fire and use magic, but they also have a way of using posh politics to manipulate characters behind the scenes.

Linus Baker is efficient and follows the rules and regulations set out by the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth. He takes assignments to evaluate the living conditions of magical children placed in orphanages, ensuring their health and safety. Because of his efficiency and attention to detail, he’s sent to Marsyas Island Orphanage. The youth in question are seen as dangerous magical beings and their caretaker’s responsibility over them lies in the question. But as Linus experiences the day-to-day life at the orphanage, he’ll discover there’s a lot more going on than meets the eye. And maybe the rules and regulations aren’t always right.

Linus is one of those characters where readers can see the potential for character development right away. And with every turn of the page, you hope for him to grow a little more. Linus is such a stickler for the rules, and at the start lives an entirely ordinary life. He reads files on all the children and goes into his latest job with assumptions about who they will be and how they will behave. However, even though the kids do try to rile him up, he comes to the realization they’re more than just what has been reported. Despite the outside world believing they are dangerous, they each have their own hopes and dreams.

My favorite of the children was Lucifer. Referred to as the antichrist by the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he is one of the main reasons Linus is sent to investigate. Nicknamed Luci, he is a mischievous little boy who does happen to be the son of the devil. His nightmares make objects move uncontrollably and he has a tendency to let his thoughts stray into darker territory than he should. But, he can also be a sweetheart in his own way. His love of music and sarcastic humor made this book for me. And the way he innocently suggests digging up graveyards or causing hellfire is hilarious.

If you’re in a reading slump or need a book to just pick yourself up and feel better, read The House in the Cerulean Sea. While there are some undertones of heavier subjects, they do nothing but accent the story and embellish the heartfelt messages of acceptance and found family. The witty banter between characters as they push each other’s boundaries and learn to trust one another will charm you. By the end, you’ll have a smile on your face and a fond memory of all the adventures Linus and the children embarked on.