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vickysbooklove1's reviews
21 reviews
Pieces of my Heart: A dark poetry collection by Despoina Kemeridou
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
fast-paced
5.0
A Hypnotic Poetry Collection: Rare Soothing Power that Triggers the Senses
"Pieces of My Heart” is a hypnotizing dark poetry collection penned by my favorite poet, Despoina Kemeridou. This evocative and powerful collection is not merely a puzzle of broken heart pieces; it’s a rare atlas of scarcely navigated regions, allowing readers to locate the missing fragments of their own hearts.
“Like a thousand colorful lanterns in the night sky,” these poems of unparalleled beauty and depth cast soothing and healing light into the darkest corners of the readers’ minds and souls. Despoina Kemeridou’s freshly sharpened pencil traces her thoughts on paper. The graphite whispers secrets, and the paper cradles them gently. Each stroke becomes a bridge between imagination and reality, nightmares and dreams. Each letter transforms into a note composing a spellbinding melody for the enchanting dance of hope and despair. Each verse reflects the deep longing of humanity for love and home.
All the poems in this enchanting collection resemble children holding hands and dancing a whimsical Tarantella as the sunlight and moonlight mingle, convincing life and death to stop lurking in the shadows and come forth to be embraced by the readers’ aching hearts.
As a passionate enthusiast of poetry in general and of Despoina Kemeridou’s exceptional works in particular, I feel lacking in words to praise enough her newest work of art that showcases her brilliant talent, sensitive heart, and sharp mind. “Pieces of My Heart” is a warm embrace that no poetry lover should miss! This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the profound beauty and emotional depth of dark poetry.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Despoina Kemeridou for generously providing me with the eARC of this mesmerizing book. I eagerly anticipate more literary gems from this talented author in the future.
"Pieces of My Heart” is a hypnotizing dark poetry collection penned by my favorite poet, Despoina Kemeridou. This evocative and powerful collection is not merely a puzzle of broken heart pieces; it’s a rare atlas of scarcely navigated regions, allowing readers to locate the missing fragments of their own hearts.
“Like a thousand colorful lanterns in the night sky,” these poems of unparalleled beauty and depth cast soothing and healing light into the darkest corners of the readers’ minds and souls. Despoina Kemeridou’s freshly sharpened pencil traces her thoughts on paper. The graphite whispers secrets, and the paper cradles them gently. Each stroke becomes a bridge between imagination and reality, nightmares and dreams. Each letter transforms into a note composing a spellbinding melody for the enchanting dance of hope and despair. Each verse reflects the deep longing of humanity for love and home.
All the poems in this enchanting collection resemble children holding hands and dancing a whimsical Tarantella as the sunlight and moonlight mingle, convincing life and death to stop lurking in the shadows and come forth to be embraced by the readers’ aching hearts.
As a passionate enthusiast of poetry in general and of Despoina Kemeridou’s exceptional works in particular, I feel lacking in words to praise enough her newest work of art that showcases her brilliant talent, sensitive heart, and sharp mind. “Pieces of My Heart” is a warm embrace that no poetry lover should miss! This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the profound beauty and emotional depth of dark poetry.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Despoina Kemeridou for generously providing me with the eARC of this mesmerizing book. I eagerly anticipate more literary gems from this talented author in the future.
Winds of Change by Marianna Palmer
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
A Tale of Enchantment and Mystery!
Marianna Palmer’s “Winds of Change” is an enthralling Teen and Young Adult Urban Fantasy Romance novel. Fast-paced and brimming with mystery and romance, this new gem will keep you guessing and turning pages nonstop until the perfect ending.
The story follows fifteen-year-old Gene from the moment she arrives in Dusty Steppe. With only her duffle bag, a cat carrier holding her black and orange cat, Star, and her physical and mental scars as companions, Gene is a picture of resilience. An abusive father and an absent mother have left her in tatters, stripped of any sense of choice and self-esteem. However, this dusty, uncharted town will offer her the most mind-blowing adventure in enchanted realms she never imagined existed. Gene’s inherent detective skills, along with newfound friendship and love, help her navigate endless mysteries, secrets, and mortal dangers. As she pieces together the puzzles of past and present, she overcomes her fears and shapes her future, as well as that of those she loves.
Marianna Palmer’s talent seamlessly weaves a whimsical tale of friends and family, allies and foes, with a deliciously blurry line between good and evil. Her narrative skillfully merges contemporary and fantastical realms, juxtaposing war and peace, pain and redemption. The author masterfully handles serious family, social, and academic issues with a delicate yet blunt approach, striking a perfect balance that resonates deeply with readers. Her storytelling not only brings these challenging topics to light but also explores their profound implications with empathy and insight. This nuanced treatment allows readers to connect with the characters on a personal level, making the narrative both compelling and thought-provoking.
"Winds of Change” is a mesmerizing, action-packed Urban Fantasy Romance, perfectly blending mystery with family and school drama. Set in a world filled with dragons and other fantastical elements, where magic is as treacherous as it is alluring, and love is the most dangerous spell of all, this novel quickly earned a place among my all-time favorites!
I wholeheartedly recommend “Winds of Change” to anyone looking for a thrilling and enchanting read with a strong female protagonist. This book will trigger your mind, warm your heart, and keep you hooked from start to finish.
I’m immensely grateful to Marianna Palmer for providing me with the eARC of her exceptional book. I eagerly await the opportunity to acquire the physical copy, ensuring it remains a cherished companion by my side.
Marianna Palmer’s “Winds of Change” is an enthralling Teen and Young Adult Urban Fantasy Romance novel. Fast-paced and brimming with mystery and romance, this new gem will keep you guessing and turning pages nonstop until the perfect ending.
The story follows fifteen-year-old Gene from the moment she arrives in Dusty Steppe. With only her duffle bag, a cat carrier holding her black and orange cat, Star, and her physical and mental scars as companions, Gene is a picture of resilience. An abusive father and an absent mother have left her in tatters, stripped of any sense of choice and self-esteem. However, this dusty, uncharted town will offer her the most mind-blowing adventure in enchanted realms she never imagined existed. Gene’s inherent detective skills, along with newfound friendship and love, help her navigate endless mysteries, secrets, and mortal dangers. As she pieces together the puzzles of past and present, she overcomes her fears and shapes her future, as well as that of those she loves.
Marianna Palmer’s talent seamlessly weaves a whimsical tale of friends and family, allies and foes, with a deliciously blurry line between good and evil. Her narrative skillfully merges contemporary and fantastical realms, juxtaposing war and peace, pain and redemption. The author masterfully handles serious family, social, and academic issues with a delicate yet blunt approach, striking a perfect balance that resonates deeply with readers. Her storytelling not only brings these challenging topics to light but also explores their profound implications with empathy and insight. This nuanced treatment allows readers to connect with the characters on a personal level, making the narrative both compelling and thought-provoking.
"Winds of Change” is a mesmerizing, action-packed Urban Fantasy Romance, perfectly blending mystery with family and school drama. Set in a world filled with dragons and other fantastical elements, where magic is as treacherous as it is alluring, and love is the most dangerous spell of all, this novel quickly earned a place among my all-time favorites!
I wholeheartedly recommend “Winds of Change” to anyone looking for a thrilling and enchanting read with a strong female protagonist. This book will trigger your mind, warm your heart, and keep you hooked from start to finish.
I’m immensely grateful to Marianna Palmer for providing me with the eARC of her exceptional book. I eagerly await the opportunity to acquire the physical copy, ensuring it remains a cherished companion by my side.
Fang of the Wolf by Ella Walker Henderson
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
tense
fast-paced
4.0
Unleashing the Wolf: The Epic Tale of a Bold Female Warrior in Viking Lore
"Fang of the Wolf" is the first installment in the "Valaria Descending" fantasy series, penned by Ella Walker Henderson. It's a riveting Viking inspired saga that sweeps the readers away to an enthralling world of ancient myths and fierce battles.
The narrative follows Valaria on her quest to become a fearless warrior in the male-dominated heart of the Northlands. Her father, the Varg, is the leader and greatest warrior of their clan, the Vargsungs, known as the Wolves. He has always been dedicated to protecting, training, and preparing both Valaria and her brother, Fior, for their future roles after his passing. While very few consider Valaria worthy of being a Vargsung warrior, most men in her clan take every opportunity to belittle her as a fighter and a woman, inevitably damaging her self-confidence. When the mighty clan of the Jarlsorns abducts the Varg, the council opposes sending a party of warriors to find, liberate, and bring him back. However, Valaria, along with her best and only friend Sofia, embarks on a rescue mission and will stop at nothing and nobody until the Varg is safe and sound back in his rightful place as head of the Vargsungs.
Ella Walker Henderson artfully crafts a thrilling Viking odyssey, seamlessly blending together my favorite tropes: coming of age, enemies to lovers, the heroine’s journey, and the chosen duo’s quest. The action-packed storyline, although a little predictable at times, coupled with the beautiful settings and well-developed characters, keeps readers engaged from start to finish, leaving them hungry for the second installment.
"Fang of the Wolf” transported me to a realm of legendary heroes and timeless adventures. This book has plenty to offer all fantasy readers: intense training and battles for Viking enthusiasts, a strong female protagonist fighting for her place in a male-dominated world for fans of witty female main characters, and the birth of a scorching romance amidst the chaos of war for romantic souls like myself.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story and I'm eagerly awaiting for the second book of the saga.
"Fang of the Wolf" is the first installment in the "Valaria Descending" fantasy series, penned by Ella Walker Henderson. It's a riveting Viking inspired saga that sweeps the readers away to an enthralling world of ancient myths and fierce battles.
The narrative follows Valaria on her quest to become a fearless warrior in the male-dominated heart of the Northlands. Her father, the Varg, is the leader and greatest warrior of their clan, the Vargsungs, known as the Wolves. He has always been dedicated to protecting, training, and preparing both Valaria and her brother, Fior, for their future roles after his passing. While very few consider Valaria worthy of being a Vargsung warrior, most men in her clan take every opportunity to belittle her as a fighter and a woman, inevitably damaging her self-confidence. When the mighty clan of the Jarlsorns abducts the Varg, the council opposes sending a party of warriors to find, liberate, and bring him back. However, Valaria, along with her best and only friend Sofia, embarks on a rescue mission and will stop at nothing and nobody until the Varg is safe and sound back in his rightful place as head of the Vargsungs.
Ella Walker Henderson artfully crafts a thrilling Viking odyssey, seamlessly blending together my favorite tropes: coming of age, enemies to lovers, the heroine’s journey, and the chosen duo’s quest. The action-packed storyline, although a little predictable at times, coupled with the beautiful settings and well-developed characters, keeps readers engaged from start to finish, leaving them hungry for the second installment.
"Fang of the Wolf” transported me to a realm of legendary heroes and timeless adventures. This book has plenty to offer all fantasy readers: intense training and battles for Viking enthusiasts, a strong female protagonist fighting for her place in a male-dominated world for fans of witty female main characters, and the birth of a scorching romance amidst the chaos of war for romantic souls like myself.
I extend my sincere appreciation to the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story and I'm eagerly awaiting for the second book of the saga.
Azzaria: The Flames of Chaos by Nicole Jamison
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
4.25
" The Flames of Chaos" is the second book in the "Azzaria" series written by Nicole Jamison. It's a riveting dark fantasy sequel that will make your heart skip a beat more than once.
In the first installment, when Niya embarked on her quest to discover her roots in the long-dead kingdom of Mageia, she could hardly imagine the heart-stopping revelations and devastating events that would ensue. These events not only wounded and deeply scarred her heart but also fueled her rage to avenge the evil Pyron reign and save Tileon from its ruthless claws. Despite her outstanding skills and newfound power, she learns that only by finding and using a unique ancient artifact can she defeat the new evil queen. However, nobody knows what or where it is, and she is sent back in time to its last recorded location—Caleb’s rebellion camp during the first Bloody War. It is there, amidst the madness, that Niya’s and Caleb’s eyes meet, igniting a flame that neither war nor time could extinguish.
The narrative voice in this book is more confident and distinct, reflecting the author’s growth in her storytelling abilities. The characters are more deeply developed, with richer backstories and more nuanced personalities, making them feel more real and relatable. The new layers of world-building are intriguing, though at times they blend too many elements, making it a bit overwhelming. My personal favourite aspect of this book is how the author skillfully avoids common time travel pitfalls, creating a coherent and fascinating storyline that keeps readers hooked.
If you've read and liked the first book of the series, you'll definitely adore "The Flames of Chaos". Prepare for a gripping journey through treacherous realms and an unbound, sizzling love story.
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
In the first installment, when Niya embarked on her quest to discover her roots in the long-dead kingdom of Mageia, she could hardly imagine the heart-stopping revelations and devastating events that would ensue. These events not only wounded and deeply scarred her heart but also fueled her rage to avenge the evil Pyron reign and save Tileon from its ruthless claws. Despite her outstanding skills and newfound power, she learns that only by finding and using a unique ancient artifact can she defeat the new evil queen. However, nobody knows what or where it is, and she is sent back in time to its last recorded location—Caleb’s rebellion camp during the first Bloody War. It is there, amidst the madness, that Niya’s and Caleb’s eyes meet, igniting a flame that neither war nor time could extinguish.
The narrative voice in this book is more confident and distinct, reflecting the author’s growth in her storytelling abilities. The characters are more deeply developed, with richer backstories and more nuanced personalities, making them feel more real and relatable. The new layers of world-building are intriguing, though at times they blend too many elements, making it a bit overwhelming. My personal favourite aspect of this book is how the author skillfully avoids common time travel pitfalls, creating a coherent and fascinating storyline that keeps readers hooked.
If you've read and liked the first book of the series, you'll definitely adore "The Flames of Chaos". Prepare for a gripping journey through treacherous realms and an unbound, sizzling love story.
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
Azzaria: The Shadow of the Flames by Nicole Jamison
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
"The Shadow of the Flames" is the first installment in the "Azzaria" series written by Nicole Jamison. It's a fascinating fantasy novel that features elements of dark fantasy and coming-of-age themes, set in a world on the brink of war where characters uncover hidden truths about their pasts.
The protagonist is Niya who is a slave in Azzaria, one of the four remaining kingdoms of Tileon. Undergoing a rough childhood in the hands of Tyrone, her owner, thanks to her resilience and unique skills she grew up to become his best weapon crafter and fighter. Simultaneously, Prince Marcus, heir to the throne of Azzaria, due to his false priorities, offers nothing but disappointment to King Bernard, his father, and Theo, his preceptor and the king's closest advisor tasked with ensuring the prince received a well-rounded education, including academic, moral, and military training, to prepare him for his future role as king. Admits the shattering peace in a world brimming with secrets, evil and good forces, and mythical creatures, Niya's and Marcus's paths cross and chaos erupts leading them to their destined role, and the readers to an unforgettable adventure.
In "The Shadow of the Flames", Nicole Jamison 's debut novel, the author' s writing skills seem very promising. As the world-building and the character arcs unfold gradually the readers get more and more engaged in the intriguing storyline. Although the transition of the narrative from one person's perspective to the other isn't always successful, the thrilling and fast-paced plot more than compensate the readers. What's quite striking is the lack of emotional depth in the parts presented from Marcus's point of view. However, as the story develops, so does the author's writing talent ensuring an even more captivating sequel.
If you're an avid fantasy reader and you favour coming of age tales weaven with legends, magic, romance and epic adventures, "The Shadow of the Flames" is absolutely cut out for you!
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
The protagonist is Niya who is a slave in Azzaria, one of the four remaining kingdoms of Tileon. Undergoing a rough childhood in the hands of Tyrone, her owner, thanks to her resilience and unique skills she grew up to become his best weapon crafter and fighter. Simultaneously, Prince Marcus, heir to the throne of Azzaria, due to his false priorities, offers nothing but disappointment to King Bernard, his father, and Theo, his preceptor and the king's closest advisor tasked with ensuring the prince received a well-rounded education, including academic, moral, and military training, to prepare him for his future role as king. Admits the shattering peace in a world brimming with secrets, evil and good forces, and mythical creatures, Niya's and Marcus's paths cross and chaos erupts leading them to their destined role, and the readers to an unforgettable adventure.
In "The Shadow of the Flames", Nicole Jamison 's debut novel, the author' s writing skills seem very promising. As the world-building and the character arcs unfold gradually the readers get more and more engaged in the intriguing storyline. Although the transition of the narrative from one person's perspective to the other isn't always successful, the thrilling and fast-paced plot more than compensate the readers. What's quite striking is the lack of emotional depth in the parts presented from Marcus's point of view. However, as the story develops, so does the author's writing talent ensuring an even more captivating sequel.
If you're an avid fantasy reader and you favour coming of age tales weaven with legends, magic, romance and epic adventures, "The Shadow of the Flames" is absolutely cut out for you!
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
Night Fury by E.G. Sparks, E.G. Sparks
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
E. G. Sparks’s “Night Fury” is a fascinating Young Adult Fantasy Romance. Combining suspense, mystery, power struggles among magical creatures, and sparkling romance, it delivers a delicious standalone novel.
Meadow, a sixteen-year-old witch with striking purple hair, lives in a perilous world where warlocks, witches, vampires, fae, and werewolves hide in plain sight among humans. Her unique appearance makes her stand out, yet neither she nor those around her suspect the immense power she harbors. When her parents are brutally murdered by vampires and her brother goes missing, a relentless chain of events is set in motion, leading to heart-stopping revelations. Prepare for a wild ride and a breathtaking ending.
E. G. Sparks’s cinematic writing sweeps readers away to alluring realms. She masterfully weaves together romance and action, offering a delightful reading experience. It’s truly praiseworthy how she develops characters with intriguing backstories and nuanced personalities, making them feel real and relatable, even within a short narrative.
If you’re a fantasy romance lover and stories of love, vengeance, and political intrigue hold a special place in your heart, “Night Fury” is the book for you! E. G. Sparks's storytelling will captivate you with its blend of magic, betrayal, and heart-pounding action. Dive into a world where love sparks fly, and every twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
Meadow, a sixteen-year-old witch with striking purple hair, lives in a perilous world where warlocks, witches, vampires, fae, and werewolves hide in plain sight among humans. Her unique appearance makes her stand out, yet neither she nor those around her suspect the immense power she harbors. When her parents are brutally murdered by vampires and her brother goes missing, a relentless chain of events is set in motion, leading to heart-stopping revelations. Prepare for a wild ride and a breathtaking ending.
E. G. Sparks’s cinematic writing sweeps readers away to alluring realms. She masterfully weaves together romance and action, offering a delightful reading experience. It’s truly praiseworthy how she develops characters with intriguing backstories and nuanced personalities, making them feel real and relatable, even within a short narrative.
If you’re a fantasy romance lover and stories of love, vengeance, and political intrigue hold a special place in your heart, “Night Fury” is the book for you! E. G. Sparks's storytelling will captivate you with its blend of magic, betrayal, and heart-pounding action. Dive into a world where love sparks fly, and every twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
Rise of the Phoenix by T. Isajanyan
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
"Rise of the Phoenix" is the first installment in "A Tale of Hayara" series written by T. Isajanyan. It's an Ancient Armenian Mythological Fantasy Saga that will sweep you away on a gripping journey through treacherous realms and unexpected alliances.
In the ancient kingdom of Harrania, where legends and wars entwine, Arme bears a weighty destiny. Once a forgotten prince, he now lives as a humble commoner, content with his wife and son. But fate beckons—a call to ascend beyond mortality. Arme must embrace immortality, for the gods themselves strive to maintain equilibrium between love and lust, compassion and cruelty, prudence and greed. As their divine hands weave the tapestry of existence, the human realms hang in precarious balance.
T. Isajanyan’s unpretentious yet lyrical writing breathes life into both settings and characters. The storyline, replete with unexpected twists and turns, keeps readers perched on the edge of their seats. And when the heartbreaking yet perfectly fitting end arrives, it leaves them hungering for the next installment.
"Rise of the Phoenix” weaves a captivating alternate historical fantasy, where mystery, romance, and adventure interlace. Epic fantasy enthusiasts and lovers of fantastical romance will find themselves thoroughly immersed in this enchanting tale.
My heartfelt gratitude to StoryOrigin and the author for providing me with the eARC of this enthralling book.
In the ancient kingdom of Harrania, where legends and wars entwine, Arme bears a weighty destiny. Once a forgotten prince, he now lives as a humble commoner, content with his wife and son. But fate beckons—a call to ascend beyond mortality. Arme must embrace immortality, for the gods themselves strive to maintain equilibrium between love and lust, compassion and cruelty, prudence and greed. As their divine hands weave the tapestry of existence, the human realms hang in precarious balance.
T. Isajanyan’s unpretentious yet lyrical writing breathes life into both settings and characters. The storyline, replete with unexpected twists and turns, keeps readers perched on the edge of their seats. And when the heartbreaking yet perfectly fitting end arrives, it leaves them hungering for the next installment.
"Rise of the Phoenix” weaves a captivating alternate historical fantasy, where mystery, romance, and adventure interlace. Epic fantasy enthusiasts and lovers of fantastical romance will find themselves thoroughly immersed in this enchanting tale.
My heartfelt gratitude to StoryOrigin and the author for providing me with the eARC of this enthralling book.
Reign Of Spears, The Chronicles of Toxandria 3 by Martin Dukes, Martin Dukes
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
While “Reign of Spears” stands as the third installment in “The Chronicles of Toxandria” series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone work. However, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the first two books as well. Martin Dukes’ outstanding Epic Fantasy novel has etched a permanent place in my heart and mind, destined to linger there indefinitely.
Throughout mythology, we’ve witnessed mortals treated as mere pawns on the gods’ cosmic chessboard. But this time, the stakes are different. Tio and Yuzanid, two formidable deities in Toxandria, will stop at nothing to secure victory, regardless of the cost to those entangled in their divine machinations. Meanwhile, the kings of Skagaar and Vhanakhor also vie for supremacy. Lissadora Ganafreo and Jerrakiyan Savanake, polar opposites in temperament, find themselves drawn into the storm’s eye by prophecies, otherworldly entities, and forces beyond mortal comprehension. Amidst an enigmatic and potent attraction, these unlikely allies must navigate mortal dangers, vengeful gods, and insatiable human greed. Can they emerge unscathed, thwart malevolence, and safeguard their beloved Toxandria?
Martin Dukes has once again woven a literary tapestry that gleams with brilliance, evoking the timeless classics that came before. Each meticulously crafted facet of this epic novel defies adequate praise. The poetic language, intricately spun, blurred the boundaries of reality, immersing me in its luminous world. The cascade of revelations, unexpected twists, and suspenseful turns transformed mere reading into an unforgettable odyssey. The prose, vivid yet lyrical, whisked me away to a bygone era, where every scene and setting was painted with exquisite care. I lost myself entirely, forgetting the act of reading itself.
And oh, the characters! Especially Lissadora and Savanake, their chemistry sizzling and personalities sparking, left me yearning for more. Their arcs, artfully developed, danced across the pages, leaving an indelible mark. If only spoilers weren’t a concern, I could delve into their complexities endlessly. But even as I hungered for more time with them, the stunning ending—befitting a true masterpiece—left me breathless.
Regardless of whether you’re a fantasy lover or not, "Reign of Spears", Martin Dukes’ latest work, is a literary masterpiece that every avid reader should experience. His artistic prowess shines brilliantly, sweeping readers away into a mesmerizing world. I found myself desperately craving more. I eagerly anticipate being swept away by the upcoming fourth installment in this spellbinding saga.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the author for generously providing me with the ARC of this enthralling book. I'm looking forward to reading his next work of art.
Throughout mythology, we’ve witnessed mortals treated as mere pawns on the gods’ cosmic chessboard. But this time, the stakes are different. Tio and Yuzanid, two formidable deities in Toxandria, will stop at nothing to secure victory, regardless of the cost to those entangled in their divine machinations. Meanwhile, the kings of Skagaar and Vhanakhor also vie for supremacy. Lissadora Ganafreo and Jerrakiyan Savanake, polar opposites in temperament, find themselves drawn into the storm’s eye by prophecies, otherworldly entities, and forces beyond mortal comprehension. Amidst an enigmatic and potent attraction, these unlikely allies must navigate mortal dangers, vengeful gods, and insatiable human greed. Can they emerge unscathed, thwart malevolence, and safeguard their beloved Toxandria?
Martin Dukes has once again woven a literary tapestry that gleams with brilliance, evoking the timeless classics that came before. Each meticulously crafted facet of this epic novel defies adequate praise. The poetic language, intricately spun, blurred the boundaries of reality, immersing me in its luminous world. The cascade of revelations, unexpected twists, and suspenseful turns transformed mere reading into an unforgettable odyssey. The prose, vivid yet lyrical, whisked me away to a bygone era, where every scene and setting was painted with exquisite care. I lost myself entirely, forgetting the act of reading itself.
And oh, the characters! Especially Lissadora and Savanake, their chemistry sizzling and personalities sparking, left me yearning for more. Their arcs, artfully developed, danced across the pages, leaving an indelible mark. If only spoilers weren’t a concern, I could delve into their complexities endlessly. But even as I hungered for more time with them, the stunning ending—befitting a true masterpiece—left me breathless.
Regardless of whether you’re a fantasy lover or not, "Reign of Spears", Martin Dukes’ latest work, is a literary masterpiece that every avid reader should experience. His artistic prowess shines brilliantly, sweeping readers away into a mesmerizing world. I found myself desperately craving more. I eagerly anticipate being swept away by the upcoming fourth installment in this spellbinding saga.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the author for generously providing me with the ARC of this enthralling book. I'm looking forward to reading his next work of art.
Simple Pleasures: Haiku from the place just right by Elizabeth Gauffreau
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
4.0
"Simple Pleasures: Haiku from the Place Just Right” is an exceptional collection of fifty-three haiku poems, each thoughtfully paired with photographs that capture the scenes that inspired them. Written by Elizabeth Gauffreau, this book invites readers to appreciate the beauty of everyday moments through the lens of haiku.
This inspiring collection invites readers to savor the seasons and explore the beauty of fleeting moments. Along the way, it provides glimpses of Northern New England—the author’s home—and the emotions these landscapes evoke. While a few poems seem more like accompanying notes for photos, most are well-crafted, adhering to the form and focus of traditional haiku poetry. Among them, “rusted trestle bridge” stood out as my personal favorite.
"Simple Pleasures” is an exceptionally praiseworthy haiku collection, particularly given that it marks Elizabeth Gauffreau’s debut in haiku poetry. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I anticipate revisiting its pages in the future. Without hesitation, I recommend it to all enthusiasts of haiku.
Many thanks to BookSirens, the publishers, and the author for providing me with the eARC of this enchanting book. I eagerly await more books from this talented author.
This inspiring collection invites readers to savor the seasons and explore the beauty of fleeting moments. Along the way, it provides glimpses of Northern New England—the author’s home—and the emotions these landscapes evoke. While a few poems seem more like accompanying notes for photos, most are well-crafted, adhering to the form and focus of traditional haiku poetry. Among them, “rusted trestle bridge” stood out as my personal favorite.
"Simple Pleasures” is an exceptionally praiseworthy haiku collection, particularly given that it marks Elizabeth Gauffreau’s debut in haiku poetry. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I anticipate revisiting its pages in the future. Without hesitation, I recommend it to all enthusiasts of haiku.
Many thanks to BookSirens, the publishers, and the author for providing me with the eARC of this enchanting book. I eagerly await more books from this talented author.
Mark of the Phoenix: A Tale of Hayara by T. Isajanyan
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
“Mark of the Phoenix", the second of the two prequels in T. Isajanyan’s A Tale of Hayara series, transports readers to an alternate universe (AU) where Armenian historical and mythological elements converge. Set in the late Bronze and early Iron Ages, this captivating fantasy novella exceeded my expectations. I eagerly delved into it right after finishing "Blood of the Phoenix".
We all must face the consequences of our choices, and so does the Queen of Harrania when she gives birth to her second-born son, Prince Arme. Although her happiness was short-lived, Arme becomes the chosen one by their gods, destined to pay the price for his parents’ defiance and right the wrongs. Despite this burden, he isn't left unprotected or comfortless. Even for a so-called monster, there exists a glimmer of happiness. With the help of his newfound friends, Arme embarks on a quest to find the bride who has been promised to him by Haya, their goddess . Will this feisty hidden prince obtain what his heart longs for? Can love and resilience prevail this time? And what role will the gods play in his journey? The "Rise of the Phoenix", the first book in the series "A Tale of Hayara", provides further insight, and I eagerly dove into it after reading the absolutely satisfactory ending of this enchanting prequel.
In this adventurous narrative, T. Isajanyan’s writing has reached new heights. With each layer added to her fantasy world, readers find themselves even more immersed, feeling right at home and eagerly anticipating the sequel.
If you love alternate historical fantasy books interwoven with romance and adventure, this one is tailor-made for you. Despite being a short novella, it doesn’t lack anything when compared to a lengthy novel. That’s a testament to T.Isajanyan’s talent!
My heartfelt gratitude to the author for providing me with the eARC of this captivating book. It has transformed me into one of her loyal readers and ardent admirers.
We all must face the consequences of our choices, and so does the Queen of Harrania when she gives birth to her second-born son, Prince Arme. Although her happiness was short-lived, Arme becomes the chosen one by their gods, destined to pay the price for his parents’ defiance and right the wrongs. Despite this burden, he isn't left unprotected or comfortless. Even for a so-called monster, there exists a glimmer of happiness. With the help of his newfound friends, Arme embarks on a quest to find the bride who has been promised to him by Haya, their goddess . Will this feisty hidden prince obtain what his heart longs for? Can love and resilience prevail this time? And what role will the gods play in his journey? The "Rise of the Phoenix", the first book in the series "A Tale of Hayara", provides further insight, and I eagerly dove into it after reading the absolutely satisfactory ending of this enchanting prequel.
In this adventurous narrative, T. Isajanyan’s writing has reached new heights. With each layer added to her fantasy world, readers find themselves even more immersed, feeling right at home and eagerly anticipating the sequel.
If you love alternate historical fantasy books interwoven with romance and adventure, this one is tailor-made for you. Despite being a short novella, it doesn’t lack anything when compared to a lengthy novel. That’s a testament to T.Isajanyan’s talent!
My heartfelt gratitude to the author for providing me with the eARC of this captivating book. It has transformed me into one of her loyal readers and ardent admirers.