“Trail of the Jaguar” Review

Hello Friends!

With the hot weather in these summer days, a good thriller that also has that adventure feel, is just what I needed. So I’m very excited to share about this book.

“Trail of the Jaguar“, written by Jonathan Hanson, is a Thriller novel, the first book in the Clayton T. Porter Adventure series, published on 2nd March 2021.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Jonathan Hanson for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Biologist and wildlife photographer Clayton Porter witnesses what appears to be a routine drug-smuggling flight across the Arizona-Mexico border. Instead, he uncovers a sophisticated operation involving a secret lodge high in the Sierra Madre, canned hunts for endangered jaguars, a ring of opioid-dealing doctors in the U.S., and a string of cartel victims partially consumed by a large predator. After he unwittingly throws a wrench into the works, Porter becomes a target of revenge, and resorts to skills from his military service to save himself and those close to him.

Purchase Links: Amazon

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About the Author

Jonathan Hanson grew up northeast of Tucson, Arizona, with Sabino and Bear Canyons as his backyard, providing him with years of desert expeditions, hunting like the Apaches and building wickiups (which failed spectacularly).

He has since written for a score of outdoor and adventure magazines including Outside, National Geographic Adventure, Nature Conservancy, and Global Adventure, and has authored a dozen books on subjects including natural history, sea kayaking, wildlife tracking, and expedition travel.

Jonathan’s exploration experience encompasses land- and sea-scapes on six continents, from the Atacama Desert to the Beaufort Sea, from the Rift Valley to the Australian Outback, and modes of transportation from sea kayaks to sailboats to bicycles to Land Cruisers.

He has traveled among and worked with cultures as diverse as the Seri Indians and the Himba, the Inuit and the Maasai. Jonathan has taught tracking, natural history writing, four-wheel-driving techniques, and other subjects for many conservation and government organizations.

He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club and the Royal Geographical Society, and a charter member of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and lives in Southern Arizona with his wife of 37 years.

Social Media Links: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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My Review

There are a lot of books that almost make me wish there was a movie of tv show because the story was so visual and it has a good vibe for it. Honestly, I love that this book wasn’t just a thriller, it was also a complete adventure. From the setting to the characters goals and attitudes, and even to the twists that the plot had.

In this first book we are introduced to Clayton and he was such a relatable character. He had that resourceful trait that made reading about what he would do next and how would he save the day so much exciting.

The book had a drug-smuggling ring as the bad guy, and it’s always interesting to see how certain aspect of the dark side of society are portrayed in books. The story was believable, it had realism thanks to the scenery and the characters. Which made me curious to know all the secrets and all that would happen next.

Overall, I was amazed and I enjoyed this first book. I can’t wait to see what will happen next. What other adventure will Clayton find? What other dangers, what other mysteries… I just know it will continue to have as much action, drama and suspense as this one, plus we will continue to learn more about this Biologist and wildlife photographer: Clayton Porter.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, extracts, guest posts and Q&As.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

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“In the Beast’s Cage” Review

Hello Friends!

Paranormal is a genre that I quite like. One that is close to my heart, just like fantasy is. After I saw this book and read the synopsis, I was very curious.

“In the Beast’s Cage“, written by Mac Altgelt, is a NA / Adult Literary Fiction – Paranormal, Romance, Adventure, Fantasy, published on 28th June 2021, by The Book Guild.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Mac Altgelt for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Harbouring a dark secret from his past, immortal Lord Blake from medieval England arrives mysteriously in a sleepy coastal town in Georgia, USA.  There he meets Hugo Wegener, an ex-doctor who is burdened with his own dark secret, and life-long resident Ginny Harrison, who is involved in her aging father’s absurd dream of refurbishing and reopening the town’s long-defunct zoo.  As Blake’s relationship with Ginny blooms, he finds himself involved in the insane zoo project and, when Bruce Kelly, an exotic game smuggler from South Africa, arrives in town on the eve of the grand reopening with a plan to rid the zoo of its valuable animal species, it is up to Blake, Hugo, and the old man to stop him, without revealing the terrible secrets of their pasts.

Purchase Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK

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About the Author

I am a Risk Management executive and Investor in Texas but I moonlight as a writer, short-film maker, musician, composer and world traveller (or, I was a world traveller in the pre-COVID days).  In music, I have released 2 full-length albums (one of which is still available) and 2 E.P.s.  I have published one humor book entitled 101 TIPS AND REVELATIONS FROM A MODERN DAY CYNIC (Black Rose Writing, 2017).  IN THE BEAST’S CAGE is my first novel, but I have a second already in progress and no plans of slowing down.  I have also written countless blogs, poems, short stories, essays and movie scripts in addition to my more sprawling fiction projects.  Because of my work in the Risk Management industry, I spend a great deal of time in London working closely with Lloyd’s and can be found in that country often as a result.  I have a wife (Alejandra) and two children, a 3-year-old daughter (Sophia) and a 1-year-old son (Otto) who was born in the midst of this pandemic.  My wife is a dual-citizen of Mexico and Spain and had been living in London for 2 years prior to us meeting. 

Social Media Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube

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My Review

Sometimes books catch my attention via it’s genre, others because of the cover, and then there are those that have an appealing. In this case, it was all those things.

In this story we follow immortal Lord Blake as we goes on a crazy adventure of reopening a zoo and connecting with the people he ends up meeting. The characters were exciting and real. I especially loved the chemistry and interaction between Blake and Ginny, they were amazing and cute.

I really liked the amount of fantasy/paranormal and romance, they were a a soft added element. And I loved the mystery that, as well as the characters interactions and secrets, was what got me excited to read each page. Even the flashbacks and the information we were discovering with each moment and each revelation, it was fantastic.

Overall, it was a lovely story, just what I love in fantasy/paranormal adventure romance. I also enjoyed the author’s writing style, how he gave us a storytelling with a good pace, one that made every chapter intriguing.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, extracts, guest posts and Q&As.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Raven Fire” Review

Hello Friends!

I hope you guys are having a good Tuesday. It was an interesting day, and busy too, but now I have a review to share with you guys.

I have read book one, two and three of this series: “The Raven Tower”, “The Raven Coven” and “Raven Storm”. Now I’m reviewing the last book in the series.

“Raven Fire”, written by Emma Miles, is a Fantasy novel, the forth novel in the Fire-Walker series, published on 1st May 2021.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Emma Miles for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Is prophecy real; can Arridia and Joss defeat a god?

Evil never sleeps, and neither can the fire spirits who have guarded Kesta and her family so faithfully for more than fourteen years. United in a desire for peace, the four lands beneath the sky have enjoyed relative stability, but under the surface stirs unrest. Greed, ambition, disquiet, rebellion; and the ever-present threat of Geladan’s crazed god discovering she has been fooled.

Quiet Arridia is a Raven Scout, dedicated to the principles and hopes of her parents. When an opportunity presents itself to come home, she grasps it, longing to settle and find the love she has patiently waited for.

Fun-loving Joss is drawn to the court of Elden with all its colour, noise, and intrigue; but has he taken on more than a young man can survive?

Raven Fire is the final part of the breath-taking Fire-Walker saga.

If you could, would you dare to change the world?

Purchase Links: Amazon UK | Amazon US

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About the Author

I often get asked when I knew I was a writer; the answer is always. A writer is what I am, it’s in my soul. There have been times in my life when I couldn’t write, and times when my writing has been the only thing that kept me going. I think I always longed for something deeper from life, something more meaningful, and I found it in my imagination and in the music of words.

It was poetry which first caught my attention, and whilst my younger cousins called for ghost stories it was animals I first wrote of. I think I gravitated toward fantasy because of the freedom it gives, I could create my own worlds and decide my own rules. My Wind’s Children trilogy was born from an image that came to me whilst daydreaming, of a young man sitting alone below a bridge. I didn’t know who he was; it turns out neither did he, but we found out together.

I’m now working on my seventh book and love writing more than ever, it’s an addiction, an obsession, but one I now share with my wonderful writing family. My beta readers, my editor, and you, my readers, having you with me on my journey means the world to me.
I write as much as I can around work, but I also try to squeeze in a ridiculous amount of hobbies! I’m a wildlife photographer and do a little archery. I paint, sculpt with clay, withies and driftwood, preferring to be outdoors if I can. I still have a love for the theatre, having started out in life studying backstage crafts, and a great love for language. I speak a little French, Romanian and Italian, ma non molto bene!

~ Emma Miles

Social Media Links: Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Website

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My Review

Following this series has been an interesting experience, and let me just tell you, I will be rereading all four books in the future, so I see what I miss – because I’m sure I missed some information that connect the books.

We have been following the characters and the story. We have been through twists and lots of action moments. We have learn about the characters, their background, we even fell in love with them. We understood the magic and what made this world special. After all of that, coming to an end is a bittersweet thing.

Fourteen years after the lats book took place, we get some final answers, some things get resolved… We now, our wonderful group of characters have come to ending that I was waiting for. Although the pace was slower in comparison to the previous books, I felt it was right for the tone of the story and the POVs and the storytelling.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. I don’t want to say much because I don’t want to spoil anything in the overall experience of the series, I just recommend you guys read the books by order, so that you fully understand the characters backgrounds, their needs and goals, their relationships and the build up to this ending.

I’m now quite interested to read more of Emma Miles’ books and that other Fantasy novels and adventures she has in store for us.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their Reviews, Q&As, extracts, and Character Interviews.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Return of the Disappearing Duke” Review

Hello friends!

Today I bring you a review of a genre I absolutely love.

“The Return of the Disappearing Duke“, written by Lara Temple, is a Historical Romance, part of the Return of the Rogues series, published 1st Septmeber 2020 by Harlequin Mills and Boon.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lara Temple for the eCopy of this book, and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

A scarred mercenary…Or the Disappearing Duke of Greybourne?

Rafe has spent years running from his true identity. He’s a lone wolf, living far from aristocratic England and his violent father. Then unconventional Cleopatra Osbourne requests his protection as she crosses the Egyptian desert. In Cleo he discovers a fellow outcast—and a fierce desire! Cleo must return to London, and here lies Rafe’s dilemma—because following his heart means claiming the title he’s avoided for so long!

Purchase Links: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Kobo | Bertrand | Book Depository

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About the Author

Lara Temple writes strong and sensual Regency romances about complex individuals who give no quarter but do so with plenty of passion. She lives with her husband, two children, and one very fluffy dog and they are all very understanding about her taking over the kitchen table so she can look out over the garden as she writes and dreams up her Happy Ever Afters.

Social Media links: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

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My Review

I’m always amazed by each Historical Romance I read, how amazing the stories are, and how much fun I have while reading them. It’s definitely a genre that I love and it’s one of those books I consider my cozy escape. When I want to just relax and have a fun time and escape the real world, but not enter a fantasy world, I will read a Historical Romance.

Lara Temple is one of my favorite Historical Romance Authors, and I absolutely jump of excitement when I saw this book.

In this book we follow Rafe and Cleo. Well, when I see a character named Rafe I always chuckle because my brother’s name is Rafael, nevertheless in this case I never even laughed. When I read the synopsis and saw the name, my mind was more focus on the “a lone wolf” comment. It immediately made me excited.

As we follow this wonderful and exciting adventure, we are taken to a beautiful setting with such amazing characters that we end up falling in love with. I have always found Egyptian history fascinating and I loved that this book had that connection, because it gave us some special elements in combination with the society back them. I now want more books that happen during this time and setting.

Now, of course the setting is magic almost, but what I most loved was the characters. Like I said previously, we follow Rafe and Cleo. I fell in love with Rafe immediately. He was strong and a warrior like attitude, and still he was also caring and passionate. And we could see it in his interactions with Cleo. And Cleo, well, she’s a brilliant, sassy and brave woman, the perfect balance for Rafe. I loved reading about them and seeing them grow, showing the vulnerability and passion.

Overall, I absolutely loved the book. From the well-written characters that I could believe in, to the exciting plot that I was curious to keep unfolding it’s story. From the beautiful imagery given by the descriptions of the setting, to the interactions between the characters that took me on this uncovering of their personalities, background story and dreams. From the lovely moments, to the action that made me so focus on reading page after page.

I absolutely recommend this book to all lovers of romance, and specially those that love historical fictions and romance.

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Giveaway

For a chance to Win one fo the 3 E-copies of The Return of the Disappearing Duke by Lara Temple Click Here.

(Open International)

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

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their review posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Esme’s Gift” Review

Hello Friends!

Happy Tuesday! This is going to be my last review of June, since tomorrow starts a new month full of exciting new adventures. Meanwhile I will leave you with this review of a fantasy adventure book.

“Esme’s Gift“, written by Elizabeth Foster, is a Fantasy novel, the second book in the Esme Series, published on November 30th 2019 by Odyssey Books.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Elizabeth Foster for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Terror was within. Terror was without.
Like her mother, she was at the water’s mercy.

In the enchanted world of Aeolia, fifteen-year-old Esme Silver faces her hardest task yet. She must master her unruly Gift—the power to observe the past—and uncover the secrets she needs to save her mother, Ariane.

In between attending school in the beguiling canal city of Esperance, Esme and her friends—old and new—travel far and wide across Aeolia, gathering the ingredients for a potent magical elixir.

Their journey takes them to volcanic isles, sunken ruins and snowy eyries, spectacular places fraught with danger, where they must face their deepest fears and find hope in the darkest of places.

Esme’s Gift, the second instalment in the Esme trilogy, is a gripping fantasy adventure for readers 12 years and over.

Purchase Links: Amazon UK | Amazon US

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Author Bio

I read avidly as a child, but only discovered the joys of writing some years ago when reading to my own kids reminded me how much I missed getting lost in other worlds. It’s never too late to find and follow your passion! I now have two books published and am about to start writing the third and final story in the Esme series.  My home base is Sydney, where I can often be found running (just kidding – walking) by the water, or scribbling in cafés.

Social media links: Website |Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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My Review

This is the second novel in the series, and I read the previous one early this year and I was quite happy to go back to Aeolia and follow Esme on this new adventure. So I do recommend you read the first book before this one, so you can understand the characters and the world.

I still love Esme, she’s a fantastic character and the fact that we could get to know her even more in this second book, is something that made me happy to see. But she’s not the only character that I found interesting, by following this new journey, we get to see a development in the characters, as well as meeting new characters. It’s fun when we uncover more about the characters past and thoughts/ideas.

The descriptions in this book were just as amazing as the first one, which made me excited to keep learning more about this world and the setting around. One thing I love about series is that we can get to learn more about the world building with each novel.

Overall, I enjoyed it just as much as ‘Esme’s Wish’. New challenges, a new adventure and lot of action, this book is a wonderful magical journey.

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Giveaway

For a chance to Win 3 x pairs of e-books Esme’s Wish & Esme’s Gift Click Here.

(Open Internationally)

Manly book launch

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, from reviews to basic promo/spotlight posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Josie James and the Velvet Knife” Review

Hello Friends!

Today I bring you a review of a Children/Middle Grade book, the second novel in the Josie James Series by Lily Mae Walters. You may remember the name from my “Josie James and the Teardrops of Summer” review post.

“Josie James and the Velvet Knife”, written by Lily Mae Walters, published 2nd April 2019

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lily Mae Walters for the eCopy of this book, and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

“For you to find the Velvet Knife, you must solve the riddles thrice.” A mysterious hooded figure, known only as the Velvet Knife has appeared in the cursed village of Suncroft. No one knows who he is or what he wants but when he starts leaving riddles around the village, it is time for Josie to return to Suncroft for a second time.

With Asher, her faithful husky Protector by her side, Filan, a half elf, and her great grandad, will they be able to solve the clues in time and discover his identity? The Velvet Knife is not the only one causing problems for Josie. Her rival for the position of the ‘Chosen One’ continues to grow stronger, and now he has a Protector of his own.

What does all this mean for Josie? Is she destined to lift the wintery curse of Suncroft or will another take her place as the ‘Chosen One’?

Purchase Link: Amazon

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Author Bio

Lily Mae Walters chose her pen name in honour of her beloved grandparents who also stare in the Josie James series.

She is married with two teenage children, and two huskies that are the inspiration behind Murphy and Asher in the books.

Lily Mae lives in Nuneaton, England and finds herself using local  places and even her old school in her stories.

Family and friends mean the world to Lily Mae and many will find themselves popping up throughout the series.

Lily Mae also writes for adults under the name of Florence Keeling.

Social Media Links – Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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My Review

This is the second book in the novel and since it is a series that has a continuity to it, I recommend you start with book one, just so you have the full experience of the story and characters.

That been said, we follow Josie, as she goes on yet another quest. Side by side, we go with her on a new adventure that brings questions, riddles, mystery and interesting moments that I could see my younger cousins loving if they read this books with me.

With fun characters, magic and exciting action moments, this is the kind of book that can get the reader involved. Since it’s a children’s book, aimed to 8 to 12 year old, the fact that it was magical, fun and visual, was perfect.

Honestly, anyone can read the book and just have a good time in this fictional world, going back in time and being a kid and going on an adventure.

Overall, I enjoyed it as much as I did the first one. It was a good sequel to the story, and it was as intriguing and fun. And I’m to going to give any spoilers, but I may have enjoyed the plot a little bit more in this book, especially since the story keeps moving through uncovering mysteries and I get to reconnect more with the characters.

If the synopsis spark your attention or if you think your children are going to like it, start with book one “Josie James and The Teardrops of Summer”, get to know the main character, this 13 year old girl, and join her in all the various journeys and quests she ended up in, through a magical world.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, from reviews to basic promo/spotlight posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Age of Akra” Review

Hello Friends!

Today is a special day, I was planning on posting this review, but today is even better and I didn’t want to mess up with the Friday 13th.

Today’s review is of book one in a series, and right after this post gets published I’m posting the review of the second book that is part of a blog tour. I can’t wait to share my reviews of these books, so enjoy.

“The Age of Akra“, written by Vacen Taylor, is the first book in the Starchild Series, a fantasy novel published on March 8th 2013.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Vacen Taylor for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

The foreshadowing of a dark future threatens the seven nations of Sahas. Mai is selected to train with the mysterious elemental master Sah Dohba, who will prepare her to become the protector of the desert lands. Her brother Long steps forward to travel with her as her chaperone to the Valley of a Thousand Thoughts.

A mysterious encounter brings them together with Akra, the Starchild. The trio travels on into a battle with the elements. Sandstorms. Deadly creatures. Starvation. Then a chance meeting with powerful earthfollower sets them on a new path where they must each find the strength to face a terrifying foe from the Underworld.

Purchase Link: Amazon

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About the Author

Vacen Taylor is a children’s author with a portfolio of screenwriting and stage play achievements.  A selection of her poetry has been published in Art and Literature Journals. One of her plays was selected to be part of the Playwrights Program 2017 and then directed and performed as a performance reading at HOTA (previously the Gold Coast Arts Centre).

Her feature film script received a special commendation for Best Unproduced Screenplay titled Grandfathers at the British Independent Film Festival in 2018.  The logline can be found under Special Commendations for Unproduced Screenplays here.

Her TV pilot for a series (teleplay) was selected as a semi-finalist in the Hollywood Just4Shorts Film and Screenplay Competition in Los Angeles, CA. This pilot was listed in the top 50 for the Cinequest Screenwriting Competition in 2018.

She presented the first mental health panel at OZ Comic-Con in 2017. This panel was a fantastic opportunity to discuss openly and honestly about artists and their mental health to help support wellbeing, foster connectivity and provide a culture of support.

In 2018 she presented the panel, ‘An artist’s guide to creative happiness: How to strengthen your creative performance’ at Oz Comic-Con in Brisbane. Her panels are extraordinary opportunities to explore ideas with people who are currently working in the industry. She aims to discuss subjects like individualism, the community, mental health, wellbeing, happiness, creativity, co-creating and self-awareness which often leads to interesting questions from the audience.

What else does she do? Vacen is also a creative workshop facilitator and proficient in, teaching, speaking and concept creation. Guest Speaker. Workshop Presenter. Creative Panel Facilitator. Mentor. Support Worker. Counsellor. Social Welfare Advocate.

Social Media Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Quora | Goodreads | Amazon

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My Review

This is the start of a series that just by the titles, covers and synopsis I knew it would be good series, and by the beginning of the story, with this novel, I knew I had a good series in my hands.

This is a middle grade fantasy novel, but even if it’s targeting kids and teens, I can see anyone of any age reading this book and the entire series. That’s because it’s a fun and you are taken on an adventure like with much fantasy books that I like. It did transported me to a new world that I know nothing about.

We follow Mai, the main character, her brother Long and a pet lizard Barka. And let’s stop right there. I have a pet cat, Nala is her name, and she’s very jealous, but if my mom wasn’t scared of lizards and the possibility of Nala murdering the lizard didn’t exist, I would adopt a lizard as my second child (the first child is Nala). That been said, I love reptiles as much as I love felines. And reading a book that has a pet lizard just made everything so much better.

Still, the lizard wasn’t the only things I loved, of course. I liked to see the kids (because to me, that’s what the characters are) go on this journey, it was exciting and I felt as I was part of the group and I was there with them. It called to my childhood happiness and need for adventures. I love when a book does that, which was why I immediately after finishing this book, I read the next one.

Overall, I think this book was a good start and it opened up the story, introducing the characters, the world and the society. I won’t give any spoilers and extra information because I think you guys will like to read this book and be taken to an amazing story were you will dive in and come up with your own thoughts.

I can’t wait to read more of this series and get to figure out where the characters are going to go next, what dangers will they face, who will they meet. I know a lot more is going to happen and that unknown is only curious and exciting because of the realistic and interesting fantasy world and it’s people that with author created.

So, I truly did enjoy the story so far and it was the kind of book that I would have read when I was younger and that I still see myself reading it the distant future. So if you like this genre and like to read series, check out this one.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Wild Sky” Review

Hello Friends!

If you know me and have been following my blog for a while, you know I have participate in many blog tours. I love to be a part of the fun because I always end up meeting new people (bloggers and authors).

Today I bring a review that is part of a blog tour.

“Wild Sky“, written by Lexi Rees, is the second book in The Relic Hunters Series. And I have read and reviewed book one if you want to know more about the series: “Eternal Seas” Review.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lexi Rees for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 

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Synopsis

After delivering the pearl, Finn and Aria thought life would return to normal.

But with the survival of the clans still in peril, they must continue their quest.

Can they find the next relic before the forces of evil?

Not everyone is who they appear to be

And time is running out …

Purchase Link: Amazon

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Author Bio

Lexi Rees writes action packed adventures for children. The first book in The Relic Hunters Series, Eternal Seas, was awarded a “loved by” badge from LoveReading4Kids and is currently longlisted for a Chanticleer award.

She’s passionate about developing a love of reading and writing in children, and as well as an active programme of school visits and other events, she has published a Creative Writing Skills workbook, is a Book PenPal for three primary schools, and runs a free online #kidsclub and newsletter which includes book recommendations and creative writing activities. 

In her spare time, she’s a keen crafter and spends a considerable amount of time trying not to fall off horses or boats.

Social Media Links – Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube

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My Review

This isn’t the first book I read of Lexi Rees, and I loved the Eternal Seas, which is the first novel of the series, and I was very excited to continue with the adventure in this second book.

Before I continue this review, I must recommend you guys read the first novel, if you haven’t already… why? Because this story continues right after the journey that we are pulled in with Finn and Aria, and this next quest is as amazing and exciting as the last one.

We get to see Finn and Aria keep growing as characters and get to know more character. Although I have a age difference from the main characters, I could still feel connected to them, and I think this series would be a good on to tell my little cousins one day, make it a ‘reading club’ during vacations, but before that I would have to get my French back on track, or wait until they can learn English. Anyway, I loved the characters in this books, just as I loved them in the previous one.

The plot in this novel keeps on the same path as the one in “Eternal Seas”, the world keeps getting brighter and colorful (for me) with each new information that we uncover, as well as the unexpected moments that made me curious to read the next page.

The pace and the tone in this book was perfect, it grabbed my attention all the way. It capture my imagination with the descriptions and the scenes that we were following, it made me imagine what was happening and the world around our amazing heroes, Finn and Aria, and the character that helped them.

Over all, I loved it and I really recommend this series because I know you won’t regret reading it.

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Giveaway

For a chance to win a copy of each of Eternal Seas and Wild Sky, the action packed fantasy adventure for 7-11 year olds CLICK HERE.

UK – choice of signed paperbacks or ebooks

International entrants – ebooks only

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, from reviews and basic promo/spotlight posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Pirate Princess and the Golden Locket” Review

Hello Friends!

I’m only posting now because my dad has been so tiring and I was away from home and my computer all day. I had some last minute issues to take care of, before I had to go to work in the afternoon. Yeah, that’s right… I got a job at a kindergarten, doing activities with the kids, after school. That’s the reason why I’m only posting now.

Today I bring you an adventure middle grade novel, “The Pirate Princess and the Golden Locket“, written by Suzanne Lowe, the first book in a new series, published on 1st October 2018.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Suzanne for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.

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Blurb

The first thrilling tale of adventure, friendship and discovery in the Pirate Princess series.

Meet Lotty, the brave, young orphan whose life is about to change forever.

When Lotty is cast out from the Sevenoaks home for children, she must use all her courage to navigate her new life. On her travels she meets Mr Jacks, a lovable and very cheeky dog who accompanies her on her adventures.

When they find themselves ship-wrecked, together, they encounter ruthless pirates, secret islands and discover the truth about Lotty’s golden locket and pirate treasure.

A story full of excitement and adventure, filled with friendship, humour and pirates!

Purchase Links – Amazon US | Amazon UK |  Barnes and Noble

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Author Bio

I was born in Perth Western Australia and as a young adult grew up in the small country town of Tom Price situated in the outback of Western Australia.  Travelling extensively throughout Australia, I loved seeing the diverse landscapes and animals of the country.  My current home is in Perth with my husband, two daughters and our cat Abby. ​

​I have a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in Sports Science. My interests include watching movies, particularly sci- fi, travelling, photography and reading. I also enjoy going to the occasional comic book convention! 

Like the young women in my stories,  I have had the opportunity to experience many exciting adventures in my life so far including being part of the Australian Army Reserves, climbing to Mt Everest base camp, descending into one of the pyramids at Giza in Egypt, flying in a hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings, parachuting from a plane at 12000 feet and sitting on the edge of an active volcano on Tanna island in Vanuatu.

My daughters have Dyslexia and I wrote my first book Seventeen as I wanted to encourage them to try things even if they found them difficult, such as writing.  I am a member of the Society of children’s book writers and illustrators and the Australian Society of Authors.

The children’s pirate adventure story for middle grade readers, The Pirate Princess and the Golden Locket published by Silvergum Publishing, is the second book I have written. My first novel Seventeen, a YA dystopian adventure story was published in 2016 by  Creativia Publishing.

Social Media Links – Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Twitter

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My Review

I always love reading middle grade books, because they take me back to my childhood and how visual some stories are. In this book, that as what happen too. I loved it because of all the ingredients that made this story a great adventure novel.

Lotty is the main character and she’s a very relatable character and I like that this book as a powerful young girl as a main character. We follow Lotty’s life as she leace the orphanage and starts her life on the sea, and all the journey after. She’s a girl that is finding her role in the world and follow all her dreams, and with that wondering, she brings some personality treats to view. Her wittiness, her strength, the kindness and the loyalty to her friends.

We are taken on an adventure, with an intriguing plot in a fast paced storytelling that had pirates, friendship, humor and action, brilliantly written that made me stay at the edge of my seat during all the 100pages of this novel. Besides that, the story had some amazing descriptions, dialogues and narrative that made the book so visual and emotive. And that paced and all the components of the storytelling are what made this book so perfect for any audience.

Overall, I liked the book a lot and I wish I had more books about Lotty and all the fun and entertaining characters that she meet along the way. I highly recommend it to everyone.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, from reviews and basic promo/spotlight posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author and want me to do a review of your book you can go check out my Request Review page.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books.

And if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Pirate’s Stowaway Bride” Review

Hello Friends!

Like I said in a previous post… I’m trying to get back on track and review all the book I have read in the past few months. So here I am with another review, and who doesn’t love pirate’s stories?!

“The Pirate’s Stowaway Bride“, written by Anne Stryker, is a quick novella published this summer that has pirates and action.

I want to thank Anne for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to read this book and in turn give my honest review of the book.

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Blurb

Sit still. Be quiet. Obey.

Adora has lived her entire life under her mother’s strict rules, but when obedience means marrying a man twice her age, something deep within her snaps. Fleeing the night of her wedding, she boards what she assumes is a trade ship and hides among the cargo she hopes won’t be touched until she’s far away from the life she left behind.

She never anticipated being found.

Or finding Fenix.

Fenix believes in freedom, expression, and adventure. When a woman in a wedding gown is found in the belly of his ship with eyes like fire and the disposition of something almost broken, he wants nothing more than to release the flames and mend the cracks.

But with her past catching up to them, he may not have the chance.

Purchase Link – Amazon

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Author Bio

Anne Stryker is a romance author who loves animals and fantasy. Somehow she finds a way to incorporate both into her stories in one way or another more often than not. Adventure, twists, and magic lie within every page in her works, and she invites you to join her on the expeditions of several lifetimes.

Currently, Anne is working on a fantasy romance series that retells both fairy tales and myths in mashups of severe proportions. The Beyond the Veil series starts with Lurking in the Woods, which has just been published.

Social Media Links – Website | Goodreads | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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My Review

I haven’t read that many books with pirates but this one grabbed my attention the minute I read the blurb. It’s my first book from Anne Stryker and I liked this novella a lot.

This book follows Adora after she escapes before her wedding and ended up going on a journey on a pirate ship. And she met the captain, Fenix, and each scene they are together was fun to read and you could see that they were interested in one another, and there as a chemistry going on. Fenix helped her not only with taking her to where she wanted to go, but he also encouraged her to be herself and just ‘unleash that fire’ and ‘let it burn’.

This is a novella, and it’s not even 50 pages long, but even though it was a short and quick read, I enjoyed every single page and it was sweet and it had some action moments and I wished there was more because I would loved to read what other adventures they would have in the future.

Fenix was charming and he really did made everything possible so that she could feel comfortable. And the way that the author wrote the characters, the pirates, it gives this refreshing aspect to the all “Pirates are rude and mean, and can’t be trusted.” Yes, Fenix is mischievous, but he’s also polite and kind, funny and determined. And that just made me love him so much more.

Overall, I just wished I could read more about them, have another novella about other adventures they had. And seriously, it had a great message… to be who we are.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author and want me to do a review of your book you can go check out my Request Review page.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books.

And if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess