Tabitha Tomala

Selkie and her dear friend sought to dance upon the shores, never expecting humans to find them. As they began to celebrate new life and her friend’s oncoming marriage, a human male stole her skin. Enslaving her for wealth. Georgie upon arrival in a new city witnesses a woman beaten and belittled by her employer. But as she asks the woman to leave, she vehemently refuses. Georgie makes it a goal to free the woman, no matter the costs. Lady Gina aids a gentleman Sal in rescuing creatures of old from collections. Returning them to their homes, or taking them wherever they feel safest. And together the three women create a powerful narrative of hope, friendship, and freedom.

The Skin may at first confuse readers. The three main characters share such similarities that when listening to the audiobook I had a difficult time as the narrator switched between them. Now, the chapter headings are tied to the characters so there is a preview of which point of view you will be experiencing. And stick with it, when the connections between storylines form you’ll be glad you continued.

Each woman is strong in their own way. Enslaved among the humans, Selkie does all she can to protect herself, hiding in plain sight and avoiding notice. While she may appear docile, her mind is constantly turning, looking for her chance of escape. Georgie has a fierce determination to save another who is trapped. Knowing what it is like to be unable to leave a bad situation, she is determined to save the abused woman. Lady Gina travels across the world with her Black Hind crew, saving old ones from captivity. Her nautical adventures bring high risks both from those they infiltrate, to those they save. Not all old ones are willing to board a ship with humans. At the core of it, each woman fights for freedom, whether it be their own or the freedom of others.

And while the characters were a delight to read, the level of detail given to the world was just as fascinating. J.E. Hannaford builds a nautical world of myth and magic. One that has been ravaged by the advancement of humans, threatening nature and the magic of old. Readers will feel the emotional impact of the devastation wrought on the lands and their fabled protectors. And soon you’ll be ushering each character on as their part to play in the betterment of the world unfolds.

While The Skin is a tale of found family and nautical adventures, it’s also so much more. It’s a book for those who enjoy witnessing characters discover their inner strength and ability to help others while enduring hardships and heartbreak. This is one book I could not put down.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Order of Chaos

For centuries Loki was locked away, tortured, and bound by magic. And for centuries he plotted the downfall of the Gods, the destruction of all, Ragnarok. When Loki is finally released, sparking the apocalypse is the first on his to-do list. But as the chaotic energy of Ragnarok lures him into beginning the world's destruction, Odin reveals the one thing that could stop Loki. The only problem? Ragnarok has already been unleashed.

The characters in this series are so alluring and unique. Though based on the Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology, Lyra Wolf has breathed new life into them. This time around the children of Loki are brought to the forefront of the story. Watching Loki attempt a fatherly role, while also maintaining his steadfast attitude was entertaining, to say the least. Each time Loki navigated a new relationship he tested the boundaries, almost to the breaking point. And of course, he made assumptions and choices that were in his best interest, while steadfastly believing it was for the other party's own good. I love this complexity about his character, how he ultimately thinks he is doing the right thing based on his beliefs, yet ends up making mistakes along the way.

And of course, there are smart-aleck quips and mischief abound in this novel as Loki navigates the treacherous calling of Ragnarok. While the humor may not have been as vibrant in this second novel, it still serves a key purpose. With all the seriousness of Ragnarok and even an army of dead marching on the world, Loki's words and wit break up the gloom and doom of the moment. It also contributes to the novel being a fast-paced and enjoyable read. While I read books that lean on the more serious side, The Order of Chaos stays poised in a perfect balance between light and dark tones.

The characters in The Nine Worlds Rising series are such a delight to read. The depth of emotion they feel and the way Lyra Wolf has captured them in words is truly remarkable. While fans of Norse mythology would enjoy this book and series, I highly recommend any fan of the fantasy genre give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

Cas travels the world, hunting ghosts as his father did before him. Before a ghost ended his life. Cas has yet to face the being who took his father away. But each successful hunt brings him closer to avenging him. Until Cas faces Anna Dressed in Blood. A ghost who murders any who steps foot into her house. But something is different about Anna. She’s powerful, deadly, and yet, she saves his life. While the locals simply want Anna erased, Cas isn’t so sure it’s the best action. As he begins to research Anna’s untimely end, he’ll uncover more than just the tragedy of her life.

Anna Dressed in Blood held the possibility of dark supernatural horror. The cover alone lured me in with promise, not to mention the murderous ghosts and a boy who hunts them. However, aside from a few scenes of gore and the presence of ghosts, this fell short of meeting the title of a horror novel. The suspense and apprehension that come with a horror story were missing. Foreshadowing is a key element, luring the readers into fearing what comes next or building a sense of dread in them. But there was no foreshadowing. There was an element of mystery surrounding Anna’s death, but there wasn’t enough struggle to uncover it.

I also did not connect well with the characters or relationships. Cas was overdramatic, playing a bit too far into the bad boy trope. There was also a focus on romantic relationships which took away from ghost hunting. The sporadic behavior of the antagonists felt disjointed and only served to move the plot along. It would have also been nice to see the supernatural elements in more of an antagonistic light instead of rival teenagers. Not to mention the dialogue and use of language were more suited for a young adult fiction novel vs a horror novel. While I understand this is geared for young adults, I needed better world-building and a solid foundation for all of this to stand on.

Anna’s character was the most interesting, and her story truly was tragic. I wish more time had been spent with her. The relationship building felt cluttered like it didn’t quite fit with the story. I would have liked to see the lore and rumors surrounding Anna built on. Give readers more of a tease before revealing the ghost, then don’t hold back from her abilities. Weave in and out of the story, making it the central focus. There was even plenty of opportunity to add in the emotional background from Cas’ own tragic past to layer in remorse and sympathy. But it missed the mark.

If you’re a reader looking to dip your toes into horror, then I would suggest trying Anna Dressed in Blood. It’s not immersive in the way most horror novels are, and if you are unsure of the genre, it would be a good starting point. However, if you enjoy novels with spine-tingling writing and hardcore suspense, this won’t be the book for you.

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

Marten and Boog thought they were investigating stolen jewels. But when magic erupts during their apprehension of the thief, and said thief quite literally ends up in pieces, they realize things might be a bit more complicated. When they begin to dig deeper into the stolen items and find a possible noble involved in criminal affairs, their guild is quickly silenced. Marten and Boog, ever the dutiful inspectors, continue their investigations despite the order to stop. And they will find there is a lot more at stake than missing jewelry.

The humor written throughout Flames Over Frosthelm is a constant subtle influence. Whether it’s characters sharing witty remarks, or stumbling through actions and creating a sense of slapstick humor. Readers will be sure to let out a chuckle or two at the antics of the characters. While the plot has heavy-hitting themes that follow an overarching mystery, the humor serves to lighten the mood.

The mystery itself takes readers on an investigation of multiple levels. While it seems like a simple enough story of stolen goods, it evolves into a complex string of events. Some of which the characters quite honestly stumble into. Being caught in the moment, trying to put the puzzle together served to engage me in the mystery. There was such a wide variety of characters and angles of involvement. And just as it seems Marten and Boog make progress, another piece falls to drag them back two steps.

Marten does have a tendency to stay in his own mind, mulling over situations and all the possible angles. While this is a great way to showcase his abilities as an inspector, it also tends to produce a lot of upfront information for the reader to process. I think if the large amounts of information were restricted to only Marten’s thoughts, it wouldn’t have slowed the story as much. I enjoyed diving into his thought patterns, but this writing style was used in dialogue and other elements of the story as well.

That being said, the characters are well written. Marten and Boog have a companionship known from their first time on the page together. The way they easily work together and share humorous moments is well worth the read. I especially enjoyed Boog being unable to use his signs correctly and mucking up his signals to Marten. The signals are used to notify a fellow inspector without giving away their positions. And of course, Marten would at first consider the fumbled words seriously, then realize after observation that Boog misplaced a finger again.

Flames Over Frosthelm is a wonderful jaunt into a fantasy mystery. Filled with humorous moments and delightful characters. Give this novel a try if you enjoy detective reads with a fantasy flare.

For centuries Loki was locked away, tortured, and bound by magic. And for centuries he plotted the downfall of the Gods, the destruction of all, Ragnarok. When Loki is finally released, sparking the apocalypse is the first on his to-do list. But as the chaotic energy of Ragnarok lures him into beginning the world’s destruction, Odin reveals the one thing that could stop Loki. The only problem? Ragnarok has already been unleashed.

The characters in this series are so alluring and unique. Though based on the Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology, Lyra Wolf has breathed new life into them. This time around the children of Loki are brought to the forefront of the story. Watching Loki attempt a fatherly role, while also maintaining his steadfast attitude was entertaining, to say the least. Each time Loki navigated a new relationship he tested the boundaries, almost to the breaking point. And of course, he made assumptions and choices that were in his best interest, while steadfastly believing it was for the other party's own good. I love this complexity about his character, how he ultimately thinks he is doing the right thing based on his beliefs, yet ends up making mistakes along the way.

And of course, there are smart-aleck quips and mischief abound in this novel as Loki navigates the treacherous calling of Ragnarok. While the humor may not have been as vibrant in this second novel, it still serves a key purpose. With all the seriousness of Ragnarok and even an army of dead marching on the world, Loki’s words and wit break up the gloom and doom of the moment. It also contributes to the novel being a fast-paced and enjoyable read. While I read books that lean on the more serious side, The Order of Chaos stays poised in a perfect balance between light and dark tones.

The characters in The Nine Worlds Rising series are such a delight to read. The depth of emotion they feel and the way Lyra Wolf has captured them in words is truly remarkable. While fans of Norse mythology would enjoy this book and series, I highly recommend any fan of the fantasy genre give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Princess Shiori has been gifted with the power of magic, a power forbidden in her lands. But that does not stop her from using it when she believes no one is watching. Until Shiori decides to spy on her stepmother, Raikama and discovers she isn’t the only one with magic. Raikama curses Shiori, locks away her magic and turns her six brothers into cranes. And if Shiori dares to speak, each word will kill a brother. Cast out from her home, Shiori must find her brothers and discover a way to break their curses.

With her magic kept under lock and key from her stepmother’s curse, Shiori learns the harsh realities of the world. No longer the spoiled princess, she toils night and day, learning how to survive. The amount of character development she goes through is astonishing. It also adds to her awareness of how differently people are treated based on their appearances. The very thing she once did. Watching a spoiled princess become a clever and resourceful woman was quite the read.

My favorite character, Shiori’s paper crane Kiki, was a delight. The small paper bird was a steadfast companion and a wonderful friend. Shiori could turn to Kiki whenever despair began to overshadow hope. And despite her small size, Kiki was quick to nip at any foe threatening Shiori. Not to mention her attitude and witty banter helped move the story along when a lighter touch was needed. Kiki was exactly the character to keep the story flowing, trying to keep Shiori on task and encouraging her to do better.

The way Elizabeth Lim builds the world and twists the plot right underneath readers was amazing. I never saw what was around the corner as the story unfolded. And this is just the beginning. While Six Crimson Cranes introduces readers to a world filled with Asian inspired myth and magic, there is so much more left to discover. And with the way this book ends readers will be eagerly awaiting book two. I know I am. A book for those who enjoy stories with a folklore feel and Asian inspired mythology.

Theodore Finch is obsessed with death. There are so many different ways a person can die, but which one will finally take him? He sees a school therapist, but it is easy to hide behind a fake smile and dark humor. He acts out in unexpected ways to keep people at arm's length and stays trapped in his mind for too many hours of the day. Until he crosses paths with Violet Markey on the ledge of the school tower. While he may have been considered jumping, he can’t stand to see her do the same.

Violet Markey is a survivor. But being a survivor is not something to celebrate when you blame yourself for your sister’s car driving off the road. Burdened with guilt, Violet is slowly withdrawing from the world. Backing away for her friends, family, and things that once brought her joy. She finds herself on top of the school tower, not fully committed to jumping but not entirely sure she wants to keep living. Until Finch talks her down from the ledge and opens the door to a new possibility.

All the Bright Places is a book that broke me. It took well over a week for me to begin writing this review, because of how emotionally connected I felt to the characters. Jennifer Niven has crafted a novel that is so beautiful and yet so tragic at the same time. The emotional weight tied to these characters and their story lingered long after I finished the book. Even creating the quote art for this novel almost brought me to tears.

Finch is the main target of the popular kids because he is different. He acts out, dresses differently, and doesn’t act like the other students. He has a rough home life and is suffering from mental illness. The stigma that comes from carrying an invisible illness is touched on with this narrative and it hits close to home. Readers will see how damaging it can be for peers to throw harsh words and bully Finch as he struggles against his own mind. There are moments where he is so strong, fighting against the encroaching darkness and dread that threatens to suffocate him, but without a strong support system, he falls over and over again. Until Violet enters his life. She is finally the one spark in his life that gives him hope.

Violet’s story, while tragic, also shows how different people can be treated based on their backgrounds. She’s a popular girl in school, has good grades, and has a loving family at home. Even her counselor talks to her differently than Finch’s. However, Violet suffers from survivor's guilt and is beginning to isolate herself. Her friends don’t recognize it for what it is, but Finch sees it. Having lived with his share of mental problems, he begins to integrate himself into Violet’s life. Once they become partners for a school project, Violet can’t help but socialize with him. And in the end, it changes both their lives.

As Finch and Violet begin their journey together, they slowly reveal to one another how broken they are. There is a mutual understanding that begins to take hold, and Violet begins to see why Finch has such a hard time dealing with his mental illness. The utter hope and need to do better Finch feels is heart wrenching as his destructive thoughts continue to pile into his head. I wanted to scream at his parents to open their eyes, to help their son. To stop being so caught up in their distant worlds and recognize how much he suffered. Violet saw it and did everything she could to help him. Through Finch, she learned how to fight for herself no matter how hard life became.

The relationship they fostered was messy and complex. It was slow to develop and realistic. While Violet would never have considered befriending Finch in the past, the way life through them together forced her to open her eyes at her own bias. And the always distant Finch fought to become a better person for Violet. This story is heart wrenching in its intricate and emotional writing style. Jennifer Niven has done such a brilliant portrayal of these characters and the separate battles they each fight. This book is one I think everyone should read.

Thank you to Blackthorn Book Tours for providing me a copy of this novel! I voluntarily leave this review.

Dauðr has found a way into our world. A creature who feeds on death and consumes the living. As a child, Thomas faced Dauðr in his parents' cornfield but was not strong enough to destroy it. Instead, Dauðr returned to the shadows, waiting for its moment to reemerge. When a boy named Robert makes his first kill, Dauðr relishes in the moment, drinking down the soul of Robert’s victim. It will take years for Robert to realize Dauðr’s influence in his exploits. And once he does, he knows he’s gone too far to ever turn back. As an adult, Thomas will have to face Dauðr once more and this time if he fails, the entire world will fall with him.

The Girl in the Corn will place readers into the point of view of a murderer. From his life as a child growing up in a dysfunctional family, to life after he commits his first crime. Robert is a deranged man whom evil has chosen to partner with. His thought process is oftentimes immature as if he is stuck as a young boy, and it fits so well with his character. It makes Dauðr’s influence all the more powerful when it makes Robert, sometimes forcefully, commit heinous acts.

Although some of the more disturbing events that set Robert in motion as the antagonist are a bit abrupt. While the story leads readers towards the moment of Robert’s first kill, the build-up in apprehension and the overall wording used didn’t quite sit well. There was a lack of tension in the scene and some of the background elements took away from the focus that should have been spent on Robert. However, once he starts down his dark path, the momentum his story gains is riveting.

Thomas’ point of view is such a drastic difference from Robert’s. He struggles in his daily life due to the events of his childhood. And while he doesn’t lead the perfect life, he does the best he can with his situation. Watching him manage the mundane issues in life whereas Robert is dealing more with the supernatural was a great contrast. As the story progresses, Thomas does become more involved with Dauðr once more and it is all the more dramatic because of the way his life is portrayed. Not to mention some of the twists that are thrown into Thomas’s storyline.

The overall tone of this story is dark and disturbing. Please be advised there are moments of violence towards people of all ages as well as animals. Jason Offutt has created well-rounded villains and ensures audiences will be alarmed at their sinister actions. Nothing is easy for our main protagonist Thomas, and there are many moments where he finds himself faced with impossible situations. Not to mention the supernatural elements of this novel added a great layer of complexity and a touch of Norse mythology.

The Girl in the Corn is a gritty and intense read, suitable for adults that are not afraid to walk on the dark side of fiction. No mercy is spared, and no detail is left unturned. Be prepared to jump into the mind of a murderer and the supernatural creature who influences him. And watch as our reluctant hero does all he can to face down against Dauðr. This is a story that will, without a doubt, leave you unsettled.

When Laney wakes up in a hospital bed, she may remember who she is, but her memories of how she ended up there are gone. Then she learns an accident took the lives of three childhood friends, leaving only Laney and Evan behind. Laney must put the pieces of her life back together and learn how to live without three of her closest friends. And just when she thinks Evan will be by her side through it all, grief opens a rift between them.

It was refreshing to switch gears from constantly being inside a character’s mind to experiencing everything firsthand alongside Laney. The style of writing is dialogue driven and amplifies each emotion. This creates a wonderful source of tension and mystery. I knew there was something major left to be revealed. That Laney had forgotten more than just the accident. D.M. Simmons achieved the perfect balance of foreshadowing and memory clips to create an overarching mystery I had to finish the novel to solve.

I also applaud the relationships in this novel. They were complicated, messy, and realistic. Each person tied to the three friends experienced grief in their own way. It caused confusion as Laney, wrapped up in her grief, couldn't understand why certain people in her life no longer communicated well. The social environment was so different from what she remembered and this shift in reality added to the story. There was also an emphasis on mother-daughter relationships. Her mother stepped in to protect her emotionally and tried to ease her through the new boundaries of life. Parents often take a huge step back in young adult/new adult novels. I was glad to see Laney’s mother front and center, allowing Laney to see how her parents dealt with heartache and loss.

And the town of Lake Haven, Maine was so skillfully built into the story. Readers discover a sense of community and purpose within the small waterside town. There was no need for overly descriptive details of buildings or history, as the writing gave readers just enough information to paint it in their minds. And as Laney began to meld back into society, each new area she explored was brought to life by the people and personalities within them.

Evoke is aptly named as it brings so many different emotions to the surface while reading. Laney’s journey of discovery and healing will take hold of your heart and refuse to let go. This is a beautiful book about friendship, love, and loss.

After the loss of a family member, overwhelming grief causes Brynn to question her path in life. Her job no longer holds the joy it once did, and the stress to her relationships has caused fractures. She sets her sights on Wharton, a town nestled on Lake Superior and home to a close friend. Disconnecting from the world outside she begins anew, discovering comfort in the presence of strangers and their tales of love and loss. But nightmares begin to plague Brynn’s sleep and a voice calls out to her in the night. It’s no surprise the old boarding house she’s staying in may be haunted. But when another lodger begins to talk to Brynn about her past, stories she’s never shared with anyone in town, a chill runs down her spine as she realizes something else is going on. Something that will open her eyes to past events and their true meaning.

At its core, The Haunting of Brynn Wilder is a story of life after grief and learning how to love again. Brynn’s grief is portrayed in quiet ways, building into a slow heartache as readers unravel what has happened to bring her to this point in her life. There are many relationships seen throughout this story, and the common theme is finding love in unexpected places. Though it seemed there were a bit too many moments of finding true love. But I enjoyed Brynn’s slow emergence as a more confident woman who has come to terms with her loss.

The gothic elements of this book were not easily found. There was an air of mystery surrounding Brynn and a vague sense of a haunting. The nightmares Brynn begins to experience are tame, more so geared towards building up the mystery rather than suspense. And the supernatural elements seem to drift in and out of focus, never staying long enough to create an atmosphere of fear or dread. About halfway through the book I figured out the mystery and was eager to see how it all came together at the end. But it felt anti-climactic when I reached that point.

The Haunting of Brynn Wilder feels more like a romance novel vs a gothic novel. Experiencing life in Wharton and the slice of life that comes with Summer romance is a central focus. It was well written and detailed, vividly painting the town of Wharton and the island. And l earning about the various tales of Brynn’s counterparts in town was fun, but not quite what I expected when picking this novel. Though the romance elements are light and tame, the story still promotes a sense of finding the one and having the male character become a hero the female lead falls for.

I do recommend this for readers who enjoy relationship based fiction and summer romances. This is not a particularly light read as it captures the essence of grief, but it does read fairly quickly and easily.

Joanne has reached an all new low. She’s left the wardens and is under threat to never use her powers again. David is near death. Every interaction outside of his bottle brings him closer to the edge and her new job isn’t exactly glamorous. She’s taken up working for a news station as a weather girl. But she isn’t forecasting the weather, instead, she’s the stand in for the butt of jokes to amuse the viewers. When Joanne’s sister shows up on her doorstep, newly divorced and begging for a place to stay, it’s just the icing on the cake of her new life. But something is brewing in Florida. A threat of violence that has continued to grow over time reaches the breaking point, fracturing the wardens and dragging Joanne into the middle of it.

Each new Weather Warden book brings a host of problems for Joanne. This time around it is a mix of supernatural and human-related issues. And each book reaches a higher level of action and potential for the series. The world-building never ends and the challenges characters face keep escalating. Not to mention the emotional dive Joanne has to face in Windfall. She’s losing everything, her life is falling apart. Add into the mix high stakes tension, near death experiences, and threats from some of the most powerful creatures on Earth. Every page you turn, there is something to keep you reading, driving you forward to find out what is going to happen next.

A common theme that has cropped up in each Weather Warden book, is how close Joanne comes to dying. Normally this would become repetitive since Windfall is the fourth book in the series, however, Rachel Caine does something clever. Multiple characters point out to Jo that courting death is not a fitting characteristic, nor is it a good hobby. This puts it into perspective that yes, this is happening all too often, and even the characters are not happy with it. Do I think Joanne will stop having close calls? Most likely not. It’s not in her nature to back down when she thinks she has a chance, even if it is a slim one. And it’s one of the reasons I enjoy her character.

I’ve mentioned the magic system often enough in my book reviews, but another component unique to the Weather Warden series is the way Rachel Caine personifies elements. Storms take on personalities of their own, boiling in angry streaks across the atmosphere, lashing out with lightning and rain. Fires surge in fits and starts, consuming all they can in hunger. Each encounter brings readers closer to the concept of mother earth being a living breathing being. An idea Rachel Caine has teased since the first book, Ill Wind.

Something else I have not mentioned in my book reviews is how focused on fashion and body image the female characters are in this series. Joanne zeroes in on designer fashion and feels ashamed when she isn’t wearing the latest trends. While fashion is not a topic that interests me, I see it as just another trait of Joanne’s personality. And she does tend to surround herself with females of similar interest. Joanne is also a woman self-conscious about her body image. Her sister takes trendsetting and body image to a whole new level. But this is a minor element of each story. Sort of a reminder of Jo’s base personality while she is also kicking butt and taking names.

Joanne has her faults, but every character does. Despite her shortcomings, she feels deeply for those she cares about. Any time she has no choice but to make a decision that may harm someone she loves, it cuts her deeply. Watching her character develop throughout the series has been such a joy. And given everything that is thrown her way in Windfall, I’m interested to see how she continues to develop in the next book.

Thank you to R & R Book Tours for providing me with a copy of Veles! I voluntarily leave this review.

Every decade a sacrifice is made to the God Veles, or as the elders like to call it, a gift. The last gifting year tore Mizuki’s family apart as her younger brother was selected. While she refuses to believe in the gifting, most of the village is terrified to give up the tradition. The elders have instilled in them a fear that the God Veles will punish them without sacrifice. When her best friend’s family is selected for gifting, she knows it will break them. But she’s older now, and willing to take risks to end this horrible tradition. Aiden and Mizuki dare to venture beyond their village, searching for answers and a way to save Aiden’s family from heartache.

While the politics of the village and the elders certainly can be deemed one of the key opposing forces against Mizuki and Aiden, the story also focuses on the land itself. As the two journey farther into the wilderness, they must face off against starving animals and declining weather. P.J. Marie weaves into the story the aftereffects of overburdening the land and its animals, by turning it against Mizuki and Aiden. It was refreshing to see characters struggle against more than just other humans. It solidified the ideas of what they were fighting for, even if at the time they didn’t realize how deep-rooted the problems were in their village.

Veles was a riveting and emotional tale. The way P.J. Marie dives into the thoughts and feelings of the characters is devastating. Mizuki remains the narrator for the majority of the tale, and everything she experiences is so completely described the reader feels it for themselves. Even as the narrative branches off later in the story and the perspective switches, the writing style remains steadfast at pulling every bit of emotion to the forefront. This tale will keep you engaged as the characters struggle to survive.

The abrupt change in perspective is a bit jarring though. There is a lot of information given upfront to the reader. It takes a little while for worldbuilding to reestablish the new narrative boundaries. There is also a heavy dose of news related tie-ins that give summaries of what is currently happening in the background of the story. This shift in the story also jumps to the past and explains how Mizuki and Aiden’s world became post-apocalyptic. But there was too much information. It detracted from Mizuki and Aiden’s story. The two characters were so well developed, and on a steady rise to their peak moments that would define their overall progress when it all shifted.

If you enjoy dystopian reads with a dose of mystery and apprehension give Veles a try. The characters are so well written. The story at times becomes complex and will twist in unexpected ways, keeping you guessing what will happen next.

This is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Warlock Snare

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

Briar has been taken to another dimension. The only way to bring her back is to find a thaumaturge willing to open a portal for Orion and Max. But even if they find one they must survive the demon dimension she's been taken to. When a string of events puts Max on the sidelines, Elsa steps up to help. Though well versed in traveling between dimensions and taking down demons, the warlock they find will push Elsa to her limits.

The relationships Jimena I. Novaro builds among characters are complex and rife with emotion. Orion doesn't have the safety or security of being able to turn to someone older than him for advice. His mother does her best to teach him magical theories and techniques, but her health and magical limitations hold her back from being the parent Orion needs. Readers can feel her guilt through her dialogue and actions. She wants to do more for her son, she simply can't. But Orion doesn't hold it against her. Instead, his family dynamic and unique situation has ingrained in Orion the need to protect his family and friends. Even if it means giving up his life.

In The Warlock Snare, a new character emerges that could potentially be a role model for Orion. The excitement Orion experiences as he witnesses new magic and the possibility of having someone to turn to is heartwarming. But there is a flip side to it as well. Orion is conflicted about the person's past actions. Orion's mismatched memories of his father leer over him and bring with them anxiety and doubt. But he isn't the only character with misgivings. Readers explore Elsa's point of view throughout the story and will discover her tragic past. Learning about her loss puts into perspective the way she behaves and why it is hard for her to form relationships. It also shows how grief can shape people and how hard it is to overcome blaming oneself for the past.

Jimena I. Novaro writes her characters in a way that brings them to life with startling clarity. The various emotions they experience, and the well-paced development for each of them resonates with the central themes of the story. And each is so well balanced, always granting the reader enough information and enthusiasm to keep reading. If you are a reader who enjoys character-driven stories, pick up this series. The amount of work put into the psychology of the characters is astounding.

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

Lyndra wants more out of life than strict routines and prearranged futures. She wants to explore, to have a chance to see who she is outside of guild life. But her guild family views her desire for more as different and wild. When tempers rise within the guild, brought on by sickness and the threat of attack from the sea-dwelling Grassians, Lyndra might just find her wish to see beyond her village granted. But at a terrible cost. Grassians begin to kidnap her fellow guildmates, and long-buried secrets arise. Lyndra’s life will be forever changed.

This coming of age story will win over readers young and old. Lyndra struggles to remain true to herself as she realizes what she wants out of life. Being different labels her as being difficult, even if her intentions are never wicked. Many readers will be able to relate to the pressure she feels trying to fit in. And even as Lyndra tries her best to be one of the crowd, circumstances will force her to reevaluate her life. And while her journey will be difficult, fraught with danger and harsh realizations, in the end, she will find herself.

The Grassy Sea is one of those books that shows readers how long standing feuds can be devastating to hold onto. As Lyndra becomes involved with the feud between her guild and the Grassians, she realizes just how damaging preconceived assumptions can be. She sees the differences between her own people and the Grassians, but instead of wanting war, she wants peace. However, hatred and resentment are hard emotions to overcome, especially when they have been stewing for years on both sides.

Reading Lyndra’s determination to make amends and solve everyone’s problems is an emotional ride. She’s a passionate young woman, and while not all of her choices are for the better, she truly does believe she is trying to do what is right. She carries so much on her shoulders, and at times I wish she could see that it wasn’t all her responsibility.

I enjoyed this dive into a new world and the characters involved within it. The themes of friendship and understanding that developed throughout the story won me over. If you are looking for an easy read with great characters and worldbuilding, then look no further than The Grassy Sea.

Within the courts, Ruling Lords play the game of the council. Behind the guise of honor, they plot and scheme, choosing which families to eradicate to rise in power. One such plot took the life of Mara’s father, brother, and most of her family’s soldiers. In one fell stroke, her family’s greatest rival left her Ruling Lady, thinking she would be easy to conquer. But Mara will not bow before her rivals, nor will she allow her family name to be erased. With the few loyal members of her household left, she will play the game of the council, and she refuses to lose.

Politics are a heavy theme in this novel. Just about every page is filled with political maneuvers and Mara’s deft ways of dealing with the challenges placed against her. But I give props to the writing style for developing these politics in a way that kept my attention. Mara is extremely clever and plays the long game. She’s not afraid to think outside of the box and play around with the rules. She never breaks them but pushes against the norms to attain greater outcomes. Despite everything revolving around the game of the council, the authors were able to keep me engaged by creating a balance of tension and action within the politics.

However, the pacing of this novel was a bit off. The plot constantly moved forward from one new drama to the next, barely giving pause between each new confrontation. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy it, but there were moments I had to take breaks from reading. The increasing amount of drama created a sort of fatigue for me, where I needed to divert to lighter reads before diving back into Daughter of the Empire. While I enjoy fast-paced books, the conflicts that arise in this novel are full of so many different angles and possibilities that it became a bit too much for my mind.

Daughter of the Empire does have a dated writing style, but it is still a great read! Just approach it knowing there will be concepts and ideas common in the 80s that may not be as well received in the modern age of reading. One of the main focal points of this novel is every Ruling Lord’s misconception that females cannot successfully rule. To the men of this world, women are to be in charge of the household and raising children. But keep in mind, Mara strives to prove them wrong by outwitting any man who dares to underestimate her. And she uses their assumptions to her advantage, twisting everything she can back on her foes and hitting them where it hurts.

If you're the type of reader who thrives off of reading politics, Daughter of the Empire is surely the book for you. While it is labeled as a sci-fi/fantasy novel, much of the story is driven by the characters and their conceptions of honor and loyalty. There is little magic and a brief mention of an alien race. This is a book you read for the ongoing struggle between ruling houses and to watch the underdog fight for their rightful place.

Kevin is on the run and he won’t hesitate to lash out at all who try to harm him. The world balance is shifting, causing one catastrophe after another as Kevin manipulates powers greater than himself. The wardens are at their breaking point, barely able to contain the natural disasters that are seething within the Earth’s surface. And it seems like everyone believes the solution to their problem is to eliminate Kevin. All except one weather warden. Joanne always seems to be trying to do the right thing and ending up on the wrong side of the line. But she knows there’s a better way, and she refuses to let Kevin die.

Chill Factor ups the ante on the bad guys, and reveals to readers different ways to navigate the magic of the world. Rachel Caine expands the reader’s awareness beyond the weather wardens and opens an entirely new world for them to explore. And the best part is that Joanne is along for the ride. Side by side readers will experience the emotions and conflicts that arise as Joanne learns about the ethics of the wardens and how far they’ve gone off the beaten path. Everything readers have learned up until this point will be put into a whole new perspective.

But not only is the worldview changing, readers will also dive into the darker parts of Joanne’s past. It’s no wonder she lives life on the edge and has the personality she does. After what she’s been through, I would try to do everything I could to live life to the fullest too. A part of me also wonders if she’s always trying to do the right thing, no matter the risk to her own life, because of what is brought to light in Chill Factor.

As a character, Joanne is an interesting study. She isn’t the strongest of the wardens, and she reaches her limits quite often throughout each story. But she still continues to drive forward. Joanne has an open mind and takes in all that she has learned. Even if she wants to contradict the new knowledge she has gained, deep down she knows that to survive she has to embrace it. I admire the fact Rachel Caine does not make overall power level the only deciding factor in each conflict. There’s a bit of luck and skill thrown in as well as skill.

Chill Factor is another fast-paced ride, with a touch of romance and plenty of action. There are so many strong personalities in this read, and none of them can agree on a set path forward. Between the character interactions, the challenges Joanne has to face, and some of the more devastating reveals, this book will keep you turning the pages.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Thunder, Blood, and Goats

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

While Loki isn't thrilled to be trouncing through deep snow, freezing his toes off hunting a dragon with Thor, it really is for a good cause. If he can slay the beast he'll be one step closer to proving to the Gods he is more than just a trickster. Yet of course the hunt turns disastrous once Thor's blundering self mucks it up. Then he's offered a second chance when the elf Elénaril crosses their paths. Forced to work off a debt to the Gods in Asgard, Elénaril catches Odin's eye and he'll do anything to claim her soul.

Lyra Wolf's interpretation of the Norse Gods is fantastic. Thor is such a bumbling hard head, I can't help but feel for Loki. Being stuck with someone like Thor in the cold facing down a dragon would drive me crazy. I could picture Loki's facial expression with each clipped bit of dialogue as he tried to do the best he could. I also appreciated Thor grumbling about the need for a hammer that returns to him. I do hope we experience that adventure in a future short story.

Loki is a fantastic character to follow. He's manipulative and constantly plotting to put himself in a better light. And while readers may not always agree with his choices, Lyra builds his character in such a way that you can't help but root him on. And to watch him receive such poor treatment from the Gods just hurts. My heart wants so much more for him.

While it isn't necessary to read Truth & Other Lies before this novella, I feel like I gained a bit more from the story because I did read it first. The tension between Odin and Loki in the first book of The Nine Worlds Rising has a bit more of an explanation. It also helps put a few more things into perspective from the first book.

If you enjoy Norse mythology, you need to read Lyra Wolf's books. The Nine Worlds Rising is one of those series I want to read as quickly as possible, yet I also don't want to run out of books. I have to know what's going to happen.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: We Break Immortals

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

Aren hunts down rogue magick users to send to the fires and chases away his disturbing thoughts with a pinch of malagayne. Corrin is a skilled swordsman who could care less what he's hired for as long as there's money in it for him. Keluwen is a user with a grudge and the means to murder. Somehow, along with their companions, the three will find their stories intertwine in order to hunt down a luminous user. A user unafraid to turn friend against friend and slaughter innocents to gain more power.

We Break Immortals brings readers into a highly detailed fantasy world. Bits and pieces are revealed through storytelling and Aren's fascination with history. Mixed in along the way are discussions on myths and poetry. And let's not forget the variety of cities and cultures readers will experience. I loved viewing the world through multiple characters' eyes because they held such a wide variety of opinions. Their cultural backgrounds and experiences brought to light how differently the world can be viewed based on what a person has endured in life.

Sometimes the amount of worldbuilding delivered through dialogue was a bit much and I had to take a moment to absorb the information. Secondary characters and settings drifted out of scenes as dialogue commenced and the balance of characters and setting tipped. However, with the amount of worldbuilding taking place within We Break Immortals, I can understand the necessity for so much information.

Thomas Howard Riley is one of those authors that will lead you down one plotline and suddenly turn it inside out. The main goals of the characters will shift and change, ensuring you will always be kept on your toes. There will be revelations and betrayals, quick escapes, and devastating moments. And all the while the characters will be just as stricken as the readers, struggling to realign themselves with their new situations. With each new obstacle thrown into the characters' paths, readers will find themselves all the more captivated.

I was also amused by the clever writing style. Two of the main characters forge forward with misconceptions about each other's intentions. This provided wonderful conflict and when the two finally met, the ensuing dialogue was brilliant. While the reader knows the true intentions and alliances, the characters have them completely backward. I have never read a book before that executed such a feat between two characters. I needed to know how the situation would resolve it, if at all.

And I cannot end this review without mentioning the magick system. We Break Immortals has a complex system, and it does take a little while to comprehend. I'm one of those readers who may not fully grasp a concept until I see it in action multiple times. And not only do readers have the chance to see a variety of ways magick is used, but they will also discover that there are ways in which magick users can be tracked. Aren is a Render Tracer and specializes in finding the leftover threads of magick and hunting down rogue users.

Stepping into the world of We Break Immortals ensures readers will be engaged in a gripping story. The characters are delightfully flawed, struggling against not only their inner demons but the external forces working against them. The world-building is in-depth and the magick system is complex. Fans of high fantasy and epic fantasy novels will enjoy this book.

Being dead has its advantages, like wiping the slate clean of all criminal charges. But now that Joanne has been brought back as a Djinn, she must learn how to control her power. Not to mention avoid being claimed by the wardens she once worked among. Let's not forget that she's also supposed to be dead to the human world. And now something is brewing in the etheric, evoking natural disasters of epic proportions. The wardens can barely hold it together and their Djinn can't help. Joanne won't sit idly by and watch innocents die.

Joanne is such a powerful figure in the weather warden series. And not just in her magical abilities, but her resolve and dedication. Despite the treatment, she's endured from the wardens, she will still stay in the fight to prevent disasters from overcoming the Earth. This time around she is severely limited in her ability to help, but she still finds ways to work around her situation to do what is right. Though she may not always make the correct choice, she thinks on her feet and is a reactive character. Joanne can be both crisp and biting, yet sultry and demure depending on the situation.

And while Joanne is a brilliant character to follow, the antagonist of the story, Yvette Prentiss, was brutally written. Rachel Caine painted a manipulative and oily villain in Yvette, slowly working her wickedness into the plotline. Bit by bit it was revealed how disgusting of a person she was and it made Joanne's resolve to bring her down all the more satisfying. Readers will feel strong emotions towards the situations Yvette puts characters in and be cheering Joanne on to bring her down.

Heat Stroke is one of those urban fantasy series with non-stop action. Whether it's manipulating the elements, dodging Djinn, or fighting back against Yvette, there is never a dull moment. Events are set in motion from page one and will bring the reader into a world like no other I've read before. Not to mention the chemistry between David and Joanne hikes up a notch in this second novel which will entice those who enjoy steamier bits. The amount of story and potential in this series is enough to make me forgive the heavier romance elements. Urban fantasy and supernatural romance readers will both enjoy Heat Stroke.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Heat Stroke

Being dead has its advantages, like wiping the slate clean of all criminal charges. But now that Joanne has been brought back as a Djinn, she must learn how to control her power. Not to mention avoid being claimed by the wardens she once worked among. Let's not forget that she's also supposed to be dead to the human world. And now something is brewing in the etheric, evoking natural disasters of epic proportions. The wardens can barely hold it together and their Djinn can't help. Joanne won't sit idly by and watch innocents die.

Joanne is such a powerful figure in the weather warden series. And not just in her magical abilities, but her resolve and dedication. Despite the treatment, she's endured from the wardens, she will still stay in the fight to prevent disasters from overcoming the Earth. This time around she is severely limited in her ability to help, but she still finds ways to work around her situation to do what is right. Though she may not always make the correct choice, she thinks on her feet and is a reactive character. Joanne can be both crisp and biting, yet sultry and demure depending on the situation.

And while Joanne is a brilliant character to follow, the antagonist of the story, Yvette Prentiss, was brutally written. Rachel Caine painted a manipulative and oily villain in Yvette, slowly working her wickedness into the plotline. Bit by bit it was revealed how disgusting of a person she was and it made Joanne's resolve to bring her down all the more satisfying. Readers will feel strong emotions towards the situations Yvette puts characters in and be cheering Joanne on to bring her down.

Heat Stroke is one of those urban fantasy series with non-stop action. Whether it's manipulating the elements, dodging Djinn, or fighting back against Yvette, there is never a dull moment. Events are set in motion from page one and will bring the reader into a world like no other I've read before. Not to mention the chemistry between David and Joanne hikes up a notch in this second novel which will entice those who enjoy steamier bits. The amount of story and potential in this series is enough to make me forgive the heavier romance elements. Urban fantasy and supernatural romance readers will both enjoy Heat Stroke.

I loved Stiefvater's Shiver trilogy and hoped this series would at least be as well written,  but unfortunately it fell short. The beginning was a mash of characters and backstory, trying to lay down the ground rules of the setting and world, but it never really explained anything well enough. I think Stiefvater had a clear picture in her mind and jumbled the translation to words. For instance, the scene where Blue meets the Raven Boys was poorly done. She tried to identify them by their characteristics instead of names, but I didn't know enough about the boys to tell who was who. This entire book felt as though it was a stream of conscience first draft that never made it to a second. Between the random things added to the plot, and useless life details from Gansey I wanted to just shut the book and walk away.

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

Kitra dreams of traveling the galaxies with her friends and embarking on new adventures. Though her family wishes she would go to college and settle down in a steady job, she knows her calling is among the stars. Kitra takes a chance and buys an old navy ship. To her surprise, the navy didn't strip out all of its functioning parts. But why would they leave a jump drive behind? Kitra and her friends chalk it up to luck and do all they can to make the ship space-worthy once more. But as they prepare for launch, the unexpected happens. The ship forces them into hyperspace and jumps them into an unknown galaxy.

Kitra is a refreshing science fiction adventure. So many books focus on a greater evil or a villain as the main antagonist for stories. Gideon Marcus instead keys the story's main conflicts around the situations the characters find themselves in. Being unexpectedly jumped to another galaxy has crippling mental effects on the characters as they realize the extent of trouble they find themselves in. Food, water, oxygen levels, etc. have to be considered. Time is ticking down as each day passes and the supplies dwindle. While everyone may be friends, relationships become strained as morale decreases.

Kitra and her crew must use their combined skills and knowledge to find solutions. Each has their own specialty and together they form quite the team. Science fiction novels in the past have severely confused me as they dive into the science side of the genre. This was not the case with Kitra. Gideon Marcus applied science in a way that was easy for me to understand. As Kitra and crew used a combination of science and quick thinking to problem solve, it blended into the narrative and made the story thought-provoking. I couldn't wait to see what new solutions they came up with.

And while I may not be the most versed in science fiction novels, I did enjoy the easter eggs within Kitra. I smiled as I saw references to Lost in Space woven into the character's dialogue. I have a feeling there may have been even more references that passed me by due to my lack of knowledge. Well done Gideon Marcus, well done!

Kitra is a great science fiction novel for those who enjoy space adventures. Suitable for the younger side of the young adult genre and adults as well. And if you enjoy stories where characters have to think outside of the box to solve their problems with science, this is definitely the book for you. This would also be a wonderful read for those just starting to venture into the science fiction genre.

Full review on the way Tuesday!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Cinders of Yesterday

Thank you to LibraryThing and City Owl Press for a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this book review.

What should have been a routine hunt, turned horribly wrong when Spectre appeared and murdered Dani's partner. Many hunters have tried to take down Spectre, but the necromancer refuses to die. Now Dani is his new target as she chases down rumors of a weapon able to kill him. When her search leads to Dawson Maryland, she will cross paths with Emilie Lockgrove, a woman whose history is tied to Spectre. Together they will have to face Spectre, or die trying.

Cinders of Yesterday started off with strong Supernatural vibes. Dani is a tough as nails hunter, willing to risk her life to take down monsters. She moves from place to place, never settling for too long, chasing down leads. Sound familiar? Her attitude is sharp and her skills are on point. On the other hand, while Emilie may not be a battle hardened veteran, she isn't helpless either. Both characters share a tragic past tied to Spectre and balance off one another. The two make quite the pair as they use their strengths to survive.

Throughout the novel, Dani drops small facts about hunters and their culture. It's just enough to give readers a taste of the world they live in. The basics are easy enough to discern, but I would have enjoyed learning more about Dani's life as a hunter before the events of this novel. There is so much detail spent developing the town of Dawson and Emilie's history, but the closest look at Dani's hunter past is her partner's death. And while readers do learn about Dani's history before she became a hunter, it is not given the same amount of detail as Emilie's history.

However, Cinders of Yesterday will still keep you entertained as Dani and Emilie team up to take on Spectre. The fight scenes are intense and action packed. And while there isn't as much fighting as you may expect, the story is filled with suspense, drama, and close calls. There is even a little romance woven into the plot as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable urban fantasy read.

Roger and Dodger are alchemical creations. Born with a single purpose. To break the natural rules of the world and reach the impossible. Their creator, Reed, has tried over and over again to produce a pair of children able to change the world. And time and again he has failed. But then everything changes. Separated at birth, Roger and Dodger begin to show signs of success. A connection previous pairs have been unable to achieve. As they begin to realize their abilities, Reed manipulates their lives to serve his purpose. Moving the children as if they were chess pieces, risking their mentality, their health, their very being. Whatever the cost, the impossible will be his.

The overall tone of Middlegame is dark, edgy, and willing to push the limits of the genre. There is a mixture of horror elements bound together to make it an unsettling read. And by listening to the audiobook, the brilliant narration of Amber Benson helped embody the ominous presence of the characters. Not only did she capture various dialects, but she also pitched the voice of the alchemists in a way that made your skin crawl. Between the writing style and the narration, Middlegame became a disturbing and fascinating alchemic story.

The alchemy build up and explanations did take a while for me to process. Not all the pieces of the story were presented upfront. The timeline switched between various points in the main characters' lives. And while it fed into the overarching plotline, I struggled to understand it all. When listening to chapters focused on the alchemists, my mind would drift. Their use of alchemist verbiage and constant talks of the Doctrine lost me. Unfortunately, their sections did make up a large part of the book, so often the story hit a lull for me.

However, when Roger and Dodger were the focus, I was swept up in the complex and interwoven story of their lives. Both children are highly talented in their own ways. Roger is a master of language, granting him the ability to easily communicate with others. Dodger on the other hand sees the world through a Math lens. Numbers and calculations form their own sort of language for her, yet it also keeps her apart from her peers. When their minds begin to connect the ways in which they balance one another are artfully portrayed. Then again, so are the ways they can spiral and disconnect from the world when they are no longer supporting one another. It's a delicate balance and the scales often tip to one side, showcasing the horror of what happens when the experiment begins to go wrong.

While the story didn't always keep my attention, the amount of apprehension and friction Roger and Dodger experienced as they discovered their true purpose kept me reading. I want to know more about these two characters, even if the foundations of the alchemy that created them don't interest me as much. I'll give book two a try now that Middlegame has laid down the foundation of the world. And I would still recommend those who enjoy dark fantasy stories that focus on mental health and experimentation to give this try.