Why wouldn’t I want to read this book, just look at that beautiful cover image! That just there provides the perfect gothic feel and there I go, suckeWhy wouldn’t I want to read this book, just look at that beautiful cover image! That just there provides the perfect gothic feel and there I go, sucked into the story of a young woman who has to fight against all odds and come up with trumps.
Vaughan Springthorpe is the youngest of five sisters and believes herself to be the least beautiful amongst them and compounded by an afflicted lame leg has no chance to ever be the gentle lady wooed by any suitors. Her only hope is to put to good use the education she has been given by her lawyer father. Traveling to Morton Abbey to deal with the sale of the estate was a new beginning for her dream towards independence but the price to be paid for the job may be her sanity.
This is a well-written spooky thriller with uncanny voices and frightening incidents causing the practical and sensible Vaughan to question her beliefs in ghosts and spirits. The damp and moldy Morton Abbey doesn’t help matters and the claustrophobic atmosphere adds to the element of chill and suspense. Aggravating the problems is the highly volatile Nick Spencer whose madman tactics take a toll on Vaughan’s peace of mind. The author’s characterization of Vaughan is fantastic, she is someone that I could root for, her approach to all things inside Morton Abbey and even the nearby village Netherton was completely realistic. She uses all her rational reasonings to explain away the mysterious incidents happening around her and I loved her angry responses to Nick thus showing the passionate woman hidden inside the pragmatic soul. The romance that develops slowly is also excellently done as one can feel the gradual awakening of the love in Vaughan’s mind.
The mysteries surrounding the estate were along the expected lines but I loved how the author has added multiple layers to the story of Nick’s past and his animosity with his brother Sir Peter. The Curse of Morton Abbey takes the reader to a time in history where women lawyers had no part to play in society so it was exciting to see Vaughan establishing herself in the field of law.
But the highlight factor of the novel I would say is the writing by the author Clarissa Harwood. It is not flowery with a prosaic language that sometimes becomes boring, but one still feels the vibe of a classical narrative as each segment of the story unravels as in books like Jane Eyre. The pacing of the story is not quick like a thriller but the author successfully lures the reader in with different stands of the story weaving together a complex mystery that follows the dysfunctional Spencer family.
The spooky season is just around the corner and for all fans of gothic suspense, the Curse of Morton Abbey is one to curl up on the sofa with a fire burning in the fireplace.☔☔☔☔☔
Many thanks to Book Sirens, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Book Bub, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter.
Merged review:
Why wouldn’t I want to read this book, just look at that beautiful cover image! That just there provides the perfect gothic feel and there I go, sucked into the story of a young woman who has to fight against all odds and come up with trumps.
Vaughan Springthorpe is the youngest of five sisters and believes herself to be the least beautiful amongst them and compounded by an afflicted lame leg has no chance to ever be the gentle lady wooed by any suitors. Her only hope is to put to good use the education she has been given by her lawyer father. Traveling to Morton Abbey to deal with the sale of the estate was a new beginning for her dream towards independence but the price to be paid for the job may be her sanity.
This is a well-written spooky thriller with uncanny voices and frightening incidents causing the practical and sensible Vaughan to question her beliefs in ghosts and spirits. The damp and moldy Morton Abbey doesn’t help matters and the claustrophobic atmosphere adds to the element of chill and suspense. Aggravating the problems is the highly volatile Nick Spencer whose madman tactics take a toll on Vaughan’s peace of mind. The author’s characterization of Vaughan is fantastic, she is someone that I could root for, her approach to all things inside Morton Abbey and even the nearby village Netherton was completely realistic. She uses all her rational reasonings to explain away the mysterious incidents happening around her and I loved her angry responses to Nick thus showing the passionate woman hidden inside the pragmatic soul. The romance that develops slowly is also excellently done as one can feel the gradual awakening of the love in Vaughan’s mind.
The mysteries surrounding the estate were along the expected lines but I loved how the author has added multiple layers to the story of Nick’s past and his animosity with his brother Sir Peter. The Curse of Morton Abbey takes the reader to a time in history where women lawyers had no part to play in society so it was exciting to see Vaughan establishing herself in the field of law.
But the highlight factor of the novel I would say is the writing by the author Clarissa Harwood. It is not flowery with a prosaic language that sometimes becomes boring, but one still feels the vibe of a classical narrative as each segment of the story unravels as in books like Jane Eyre. The pacing of the story is not quick like a thriller but the author successfully lures the reader in with different stands of the story weaving together a complex mystery that follows the dysfunctional Spencer family.
The spooky season is just around the corner and for all fans of gothic suspense, the Curse of Morton Abbey is one to curl up on the sofa with a fire burning in the fireplace.☔☔☔☔☔
Many thanks to Book Sirens, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Book Bub, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter....more
What an alluring cover image for fans of horror. It is just that perfect mix of intrigue and a shudder thru the body kind of image that fans of horrorWhat an alluring cover image for fans of horror. It is just that perfect mix of intrigue and a shudder thru the body kind of image that fans of horror are forced to pick up and YES, author G R Thomas delivers big time.
The Rutherford House cannot get any more gothicky than this. The dimly lit passageways, the closed rooms, the echoing halls, and to top it all, the weirdest room filled with mirrors all around, the atmosphere captured by the author oozes terror. The Frangitelli Mirror is brilliant in its conceptualization starting with a slow pace introducing the hard conditions faced by Rose and her mother and the paucity of necessities due to the war that forces Rose to seek any form of employment. Being haunted by the dead all around her, she finds life at her home extremely difficult, and spending sleepless nights afraid to see her dead brother or other shadows she longs for an escape. But the escape that arrives may be more a curse rather than a blessing.
There is an insidious quality to the writing by the author as Rose reaches Rutherford House. Until about three-quarters into the book, there is just that feeling that something menacing is out there. The incompassionate housekeeper Martha and the presence of crows following her from her home offer no respite to her only wish to be free of the supernatural. I loved how the author keeps piling on that tension with snippets and Rose herself doubting her sanity and wondering if he has imagined most of what she sees in the dead of the night. The little threads of something scuttling on the ceiling, Rose’s glasses reappearing at different places, and the reflections of the mirrors raise chills in the reader’s mind. And honestly, by the time the end chapters are reached, the terrifying events rise to a resounding boom. The romance between Eric and Rose adds to the drama as Rose initially refuses to listen to her heart and holds her heart wrapped in pride and anger.
The secondary characters including Borgia and Mary have also been wonderfully fleshed out by the author. In fact, Mary evokes equal parts sadness and admiration for her strength in dealing with her demons.
Get ready to feel the chills!
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Following the events in Shadow Guardians, the story moves forward thru Zach’s POV. Book #2 in the Blood Shadows trilogy, these books are best read in Following the events in Shadow Guardians, the story moves forward thru Zach’s POV. Book #2 in the Blood Shadows trilogy, these books are best read in order to understand the world of shadows created by the author and the central theme of an antagonist fighting to become the ruler of the world.
I am fascinated by this order of ‘number three’ that is a universally accepted fact. Irrespective of the culture or religion, ‘number 3’ holds a special significance. Here, we have a triad of guardians, Kay, James, and Zach each of them having been trained in the arts of fighting with some cool accessories, Kay with her knife, Zach with his shadow sword, and James with his shuriken. Book 1 had Kay along with Ethan as the primary focus whereas, in Shadow Seer, Zach and Emma become the central characters. And all the more interesting that the author has woven the story of their identities thru the abilities of their partners. Like Ethan in book 1, here Emma with her touch seer gift helps Zach to fight for his friends and family.
Zach and Emma have been childhood friends and therefore the soul connection felt genuine and gripping seeing that Emma has been hiding for so many years and they have not been in touch. Zach has a lot of growing up to do thru his journey of acceptance and forgiveness as he discovers that loving is not about torturing oneself by controlling one’s emotions, it is also about sacrifices and trusting your loved ones to be right beside you thru thick and thin. There is also the elder triad, Elizabeth, Kay’s grandmother, Brynn and David guiding the young thru their tribulations as Zach deals with the horrifying trauma of James’ actions. The writing is smooth, and the colors used to describe the shadows help the reader to imagine them in their minds and though there is an absence of an all-out action sequence in this, there is a surge in the intensity factor as the ticking time bomb draws closer.
The story progresses further with Gordon’s POV giving the readers an idea of the evil plans that are in store and I believe this will lead to a thrilling climax in the third and final book with James taking center stage and I can’t wait to grab my hands on that one.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Shadow Guardian was a random selection out of the ARCs available and I must say I am glad I found this particular shadow world created by author JenniShadow Guardian was a random selection out of the ARCs available and I must say I am glad I found this particular shadow world created by author Jennie Lynn Roberts. Book #1 in the Blood Shadows trilogy, each part focuses on a different couple but with a connected storyline so advise to read them in order.
Shadow Guardian introduces Kay and Ethan, one who has been trained in her world but the other completely clueless as to his origins and the source of his powers. An accidental meeting between Kay and Ethan gets Ethan to understand the secret Shadow world he has been unawaringly a part of. The story is action-filled and fast-paced, the love between the leads is instant and even though am a huge fan of that soul recognizing soul love connection and all that, here I did think that a little more detail would have worked wonders for their relationship story. It just felt a bit rushed especially when the angst follows soon after with a mini break up. Kay’s pain of not being trusted wholly and Ethan’s misconception of being cheated again after his first love went to hell never really evoked any reaction from me. It just felt like part of the story when I wanted to feel the yearning, loss, and guilt of misunderstandings.
The dark shadows and the fights involving them were fantastic, I loved Kay’s kick ass attitude and her constant strive to do the right unable to trust her own circle of friends, the warmth shared between Kay and her grandmother was wonderful and the climax scenes with everyone involved and Ethan learning about his abilities was a treat. The shadow world is still developing in the story and I am sure this will be an immersive alter world by the next book in the series.
Looking forward to the next.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
To be honest, I had no idea that The Legend of Lady Maclaoch was part of a series when I had read that book in 2020. If I had known, I would have waitTo be honest, I had no idea that The Legend of Lady Maclaoch was part of a series when I had read that book in 2020. If I had known, I would have waited with bated breath to know how the author Becky Banks continues the romantic story of the American Cole and Scottish Rowan.
The Legend of the Viking, book #2 in The Clan MacLaoch Curse Series moves the story forward from Book # 1 where we understand Cole’s legacy and the curse that ties Rowan and his clansmen. I was terribly impressed by the character of Cole, in book #1, and here again, she is kickass. She is rude and sometimes too hot-headed to think clearly kind of action girl and that is one part of her that attracted me the most. The Legend of the Viking had one of those scenes where we get to see her fighting, kicking, and screaming with Rowan for things she had misunderstood and therein we get to see clearly at her worst.
The paranormal elements are a notch higher with Cole facing the trauma of the cruel grandfather living literally inside her body. The colorful eccentric characters are not that prominent in this part but I loved that most of them do get a chance to make their presence known. The romance and love scenes are captured in a different way by the author, I am not sure how to exactly pinpoint the difference, but the intense connection between them does come thru brilliantly.
The ending surprisingly has the readers looking forward to another book in the series as Cole’s side of the family is getting involved but I do think the curse should not be resurrected again.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Are you a fan of the marriage for convenience trope? Then you would love Autumn Miller’s Marrying the Heiress. A fast paced read with an in-depth lookAre you a fan of the marriage for convenience trope? Then you would love Autumn Miller’s Marrying the Heiress. A fast paced read with an in-depth look into changes in behavior and relationships between a couple, the author infuses this romance with a lovely dose of spice on the side.
Daw is forced into a marriage with Kate for a year by which he can claim back his inheritance which his grandfather granted in entirety to Kate who was his carer. The setup was quite interesting and I loved how the author portrays the grandfather in two different ways thru kate and Daw. Kate knows him as a loving and gentle person giving her full rein in designing and introducing her ideas into the renovation of his family home, while for Daw, he has always been a grumpy old man, miserable himself and negligible in his affection towards his only living relative.
Autumn Miller captures Daw wonderfully, I loved how his character is filled with so much hate against Kate initially and changes into one of maturity and understanding as the story progresses. Kate can be seen in a much more positive light as it becomes clear that she is more than willing to give the marriage a fair chance, Being starved of love and affection all her life, she also has a fair bit of growing up to do with respect to forgiveness and moving forward in life. The angst in this romance is made by Daw’s inability to accept his grandfather’s control of his life but the ending was really sweet and lovely.
The story unfolds in three parts with parts One and Three thru Kate’s POV and part Two, their married life thru Daw’s POV which was a brilliant technique, as it enhances the reader’s experience in understanding Daw’s and Kate’s change in behavior and their outlook towards each other.
An awesome debut by Autumn Miller.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
The Long Shadow Of Death is book #3 in Nichole Heydenburg’s brilliant conceptualization of a thriller trilogy and what an awesome ride it turned out tThe Long Shadow Of Death is book #3 in Nichole Heydenburg’s brilliant conceptualization of a thriller trilogy and what an awesome ride it turned out to be.
I have read both books in the series and was waiting for a chance to complete them. The story begins with Edgar in jail and our main protagonist Delia at a loose end. Yes, she did achieve her aim to capture Edgar but whether it gave her the satisfaction of moving on in life is a question she has to face as incidents pile up one after the other surprising her in the worst possible way.
It is pretty evident author Nichole Heydenburg executed a well-thought plan before releasing these as a three-part trilogy, after reading the first book, no way are we gonna think that Delia is going to become the central character in the story, she was just one voice in the multiple POV narration and in the 2nd as she comes to her own, Edgar still hovers as this dark and menacing energy at her back. Book #3 has the same goosebump-worthy scenes every time Edgar’s POV begins, his deluded belief in being different from other murderers in jail with him and haunted by Johnson with his dripping blood and cut-off flesh was such a scene-stealer. You see, on one hand, it is the creepiest and goriest nightmare-inducing scene but on the other hand, I wanted Edgar to face that ghostly apparition and be scared out of his wits for all his atrocities.
Becca, Delia’s best friend is kidnapped and Delia is convinced it is somehow the work of Edgar but this becomes the trigger for her to make something useful of her life and not depend on the kindness of her friends. Becoming a PI and taking on an assistant, Delia is determined to go to any length to find Becca. The action in the story is gripping with its tight pacing as we see Edgar plotting his escape and the author keeps that nugget of worry alive about a possible face-off between Edgar and Delia. However, I absolutely loved how the author twisted the plot and kept me on tenterhooks throughout.
All the 3 books in the Long Shadow series are fantastic and we can see how the story evolves thru Delia, from a helpless, standing on the sidewalk kind of girl to one of determination and passion for fighting for what is right by the time we reach book 3.
A.N Willis’s Byrne House duology became an absolute favorite series of mine after I requested the ARC on a whim. And ever since, I had wanted to checkA.N Willis’s Byrne House duology became an absolute favorite series of mine after I requested the ARC on a whim. And ever since, I had wanted to check her Penny Wright series but never did get the chance. Grave Lies is book #1 in the Mercury Mediums series with Penny as one of the leads. Penny is the one who can see and interact with ghosts but it is Zandra who had my full attention in this novel. Zandra is a medium with the ability to read emotions and thereby becomes more or less a human lie detector and it made for some fascinating reading.
Both of them are in Coldwater at a call from Heather Davenport who has returned to her hometown and wants to give one last chance to discover the identities of the dead bodies discovered in her backyard 40 -odd years ago. The author mixes up the paranormal elements and the mystery of the killer with panache as the multiple threads of inquiries pop up and each of them leading them to more puzzles all centered around the town and a cult that was formed years ago.
Penny and Zandra are a good team and the adventure in this establishes the support system they form for each other and with Zandra, I guess the author has held a lot of her past as an enigma, for it to be fleshed out completely later down in the series and I am looking forward to that. If you are a fan of paranormal mysteries, then Grave Lies by A N Willis would be right up your alley. I did wish for a tighter plotting in the middle segment of the story coz some parts of it felt like repeating in circles though I enjoyed the final reveal and the revenge of the ghosts.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Jo Richardson describes herself as a sarcasm academy with a twisted sense of humor and one has to READ her books to understand what exactly she means Jo Richardson describes herself as a sarcasm academy with a twisted sense of humor and one has to READ her books to understand what exactly she means by those two bulleted points in her bio. Her writing is crackling with energy, it is not like you walk in the shoes of the protagonist but more like being inside the head of her main character, and truthfully, it is a brilliant place to be. Sarcastic at best with a witty monologue, Summer Job is a quick and easy entertaining read.
Ella Green is on vacation and heaven help anyone who disturbs her much deserved and long awaited R&R. But a workaholic is always a workaholic and of course, being offered crazy money to retrieve a stolen pen drive is not a big deal, isn’t it?
Author Jo Richardson draws Ella with precision, warming up to her is easy with her inner thoughts making the reader laugh at all the wrong places. Imagine smiling away during a scene of the kidnapping, well that is the kind of enthusiastic dynamic the story brings to the table. The romance is appealing, with a hero who has a thing for Bit-O-Honey and is absolutely drool-worthy. The chapter titles are laugh-inducing and for that alone, I would wholeheartedly give this 5 stars.
Summer Job is part of the Summers in seaside series with 13 standalone novels set in Seaside, a small town located along the Oregon Coast, and is a perfect summer beach read!
Many thanks to Book Sirens, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Lea Wylder, half-human and half-wolf, the Minderblud forever ostracized by her community neither belonging to the pack nor part of the human world, unLea Wylder, half-human and half-wolf, the Minderblud forever ostracized by her community neither belonging to the pack nor part of the human world, unable to shift and suffering from crippling headaches has a new vision attacking her, the death of Henrik, the love and light of her life.
Kat Kinney’s fantasy world is elaborate and brilliant and easy to relate to with its multiple layers of racism and class hierarchy woven thru the story. The first book in the series had Lea fighting to save her best friend Salem and understanding the truth of her parentage while in Book #2 Darkwitch, we see Lea embracing her role as a warrior and her need to protect Henrik from all harm. The central plot of Darkwitch that of the infighting between the different sections of society was conceived excellently but what made it fascinating is the numerous threads that have been intricately plotted into it. Lea's relationship with her mother, her doubts about her brother, Henrik and his evasiveness, the grief of losing her father, a war that may be just around the corner, the political machinations and rumors that plague the colony causing mistrust and discord among humans and wolf shifters alike, Darkwitch had an overflowing cauldron.
There are quite a lot of characters in the story but it was never hard to follow as the author brings in twists and turns to keep the readers hooked on the story. Lea was wonderfully sketched by Kat Kinney, she’s flawed, she’s obstinate but her heart is always in the right place as she fights tooth and nail for Henrik's life. The element of romance is kept comparatively lighter compared to the first book, well, here Lea and Henrik have to face unforeseen dangers, and more than half the time they are fighting to stay alive.
The war that erupts at the climax was breathtaking, the writing so beautiful that it made me imagine the scene in all its glorious colors. After completing book #1, I was waiting for the conclusion of Lea and Henrik's story and even though Darkwitch can be read as a standalone, I strongly advise reading the duology as Henrik’s and Lea’s change in relationship to love which forms the first part of book #1, Dyrwolf is too endearing to be missed.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A novella centered around the events surrounding the celebration in a village, A May Day Murder is Beth Fuller’s latest offering which once again had A novella centered around the events surrounding the celebration in a village, A May Day Murder is Beth Fuller’s latest offering which once again had me craving for her full-length novel.
The small village of Kettleford is not a haven for Hester. There are three harridans who have an intense hatred towards Mrs. Matterson and being the old lady’s companion, Hester also has a target painted on her back. I loved how Beth Fuller uses the festival with its traditions like picking up flowers, filling up a basket, and dropping the basket near a well, and the interested admirers returning the basket to the fair maidens, the hobby horse race, the archery competitions, the parade of the Morris dancers to create a jolly atmosphere of the May Day festival. However, the readers experience a sense of peril sneaking up behind Hester as she is attacked and accused of murder. On one hand, the villagers are having the time of their life, but on the other, the cruelty becomes evident as a dead body lays not far away from the place where the events are conducted.
Ruben Penn, the new petty constable of the village helps Hester, and romance blossoms between the two instantly. I wanted a more detailed sketch of Ruben’s character, his integrity does get conveyed and parts of his past are also explored but somehow it just felt lacking to form a complete impression of the man.
A May Day Murder is touted as gothic and the bleak outlook that Hester presents of the village and its residents supports this. The description of the garish dressing of the Morris dancers and their face masks produces a disturbing feel and Hester’s panic after being attacked by one of them was convincing.
A short and gripping murder mystery, A May Day murder is thoroughly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A gargoyle filled castle… curses and rumors swirling in the air… secret passageways and voices thru walls… Ebonwood is as gothic as gothic gets.
Cece LA gargoyle filled castle… curses and rumors swirling in the air… secret passageways and voices thru walls… Ebonwood is as gothic as gothic gets.
Cece Louise’s In A Dark, Dark Wood is book #4 in the Forest Tales series and is perfectly good as a stand alone. I had no trouble following Calia and Brone’s utterly captivating marriage of convenience story changing to love.
The writing by the author Cece Louise is commendable, effortlessly transporting the reader to Ebonwood, its dreary presence, and the forbidding forests conveying the chill Calia has to endure there. The romance is delightfully clean. The story has POVs of both Calia and Brone and the change in their respective stances is evident as the story progresses. Both Calia and Brone are forced into a marriage due to differing circumstances and I loved how Calia’s outlook towards Brone switches from one of brooding and aloof, an uncaring man interested in his gadgets and his seclusion, to the feeling of safety by his mere presence and then the blossoming of love when faced with danger to his life.
The mystery surrounding the curse was intriguing and the rains darkening the atmosphere enhances the doom and gloom vibe of the novel. The secondary characters like Ryker were fantastic and I loved the easy friendship showcased between Ryker and Brone. Madam Constance’s character is an homage to Rebecca’s Mrs. Danvers and it was exciting to read how the author has used different fairy tales in the story which does remind us of all the classics but still manages to provide a wholly unique take on this absorbing read.
I haven’t read any other books by the author but I was totally engrossed with In A Dark, Dark Wood and have half a mind to binge-read all the other books in the series. Lovely!
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
I was thoroughly impressed with Beth Fuller’s The Heir of Drymote (my review) that honestly, I would happily read all her published works.
The BlackbirdI was thoroughly impressed with Beth Fuller’s The Heir of Drymote (my review) that honestly, I would happily read all her published works.
The Blackbird is a short novella by the author and once again, Beth Fuller managed to surprise me with the world of intrigue that she crafted thru her story. The setting of the story was fantastic, one can imagine the fog enshrouded streets of London that Ira walks in. The paranormal elements create a sense of foreboding for the reader and I loved how Ira feels compelled to help Dinah in fighting the evil.
I know this is a novella, but I still wished for a more lengthy romance between Ira and Dinah, well, that’s the romantic in me talking, else this is one perfect book for the chilly early dusk weather.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Sometimes amongst all the books that we read, one just falls into our lap with all the right ingredients and makes us so happy that we hunt thru all tSometimes amongst all the books that we read, one just falls into our lap with all the right ingredients and makes us so happy that we hunt thru all the book sites which have the same combination of the story. The Visitor was one such story with everything that I devour.
See what I mean, everything is working perfectly in this story that I was in raptures. If at all there was something that I did wish for more, it was probably the romance. The author Sara Saratgne has used the dual timeline knitting together the story of 2 women, Sarah in the year 1619 and Stacie in the present times, both of them strong and loving. There have been instances with dual timelines that the historical part of it captures the reader’s attention vividly but the present times fails to excite but here I will have to point out that the author has written the story so beautifully that Stacie’s life becomes the primary focus with Sarah and her ghostly presence helping Stacie onward.
The subtle love developing between Sarah and John was easily conceivable. The family dynamics showing the discord between Stacie and her sister and the attitude of the parents added a layer of mystery that was unraveling especially with the arrival of Nate, a scholar with a connection to Stacie’s past. Seb’s character and his background never completely felt fleshed out well, so the romance element between him and Stacie was off key at least for me. But the one character that I was in love with was Grandma, who was such a hoot supporting Stacie, believing in her and helping out in research to understand the past that is swirling around them.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
The enchanting cover image would lure you in making you believe in magic, but there’s nothing magical about A Spell Of Rowans, it is all about churninThe enchanting cover image would lure you in making you believe in magic, but there’s nothing magical about A Spell Of Rowans, it is all about churning emotions and 'laugh a bit, cry a bit' family relationships.
Vic Rowan has escaped Grimsby and its clutches a long time ago but now she has to return and face her darkest fears. Her mother Rachel Rowan is dead and she has to help her older sister Philippa and younger brother Liam deal with the fallout as Vic discovers the exact truth of her mother’s antique stores. All the Rowan children have their unique powers but it is Vic who is an empath that suffers the worst. In a town whose residents are happy about their mother’s death and her old love back in Grimsby, her brother being accused as a murderer, too many things are happening around the Rowans for Vic to let things be. Fuelled by the guilt of leaving her brother and running from responsibilities, it is now her priority to save herself and her siblings from being persecuted any further.
A Spell Of Rowans is a gripping story of abuse and the misuse of powers. Rachel Rowan is dead when we begin the story but her presence is felt throughout as this angry specter looming over her children. The sibling relationship was one of the warmest I have read in recent times and Liam was a character that I simply loved. Byrd Nash has used magic very sparingly in the story which was surprising, in fact, the story explored family dynamics and the effects of long-term abuse and letting go of its past in such a genuine way that it was easy to forget the paranormal elements of the story.
The story is fast and keeps the reader hooked with the twists and turns as old secrets come tumbling out of the closet. There’s a sprinkling of romance in all the 3 sibling lives but Vic and Reed just score the bonus points with their intensity. The attack on Vic leaves a sour taste but thankfully the author never downplays the event and as a matter of fact, a sentence mentioned here and there lets the reader know the emotional effects of the victim. The sense of danger keeps piling up towards the end of the story leading to a thrilling climax.
If there’s one thing that I would have probably wanted would have been more atmosphere, as the house and the town of Grimsby never creates an impression but it doesn’t take anything away from this deep and emotional story of sibling love and forgiveness.
Many thanks to BookSirens, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Endless Night is book #2 in the Victory Cove series by Maureen A. Miller and it is perfectly good to be read as a standalone.
The basic premise of the Endless Night is book #2 in the Victory Cove series by Maureen A. Miller and it is perfectly good to be read as a standalone.
The basic premise of the story is quite interesting, Megan has witnessed a crime and now she’s on the run hiding out in the crumbling Wakefield House in Victory Cove. The house with its eerie setting had a good potential for a gothic thriller coz the author uses the elements of the weather brilliantly. The storm, the biting cold, the rocky cliffs, the danger of the submerging bridge, and the prospect of murder waiting to happen all add to the tense atmosphere of the story. Jake Grogan in search of his birth roots has no reason to get embroiled in the mystery surrounding the resident of the Wakefield House but his plans take a nosedive as the weather plays spoilsport.
The central portion of the story however could have been crisper as the parts that revolve around Meg’s terror felt endless but I loved how the author showed the care and concern that turns to love between the couple. As it is fairly evident how the story is gonna shape up it would have been thrilling to have an extremely rapid pace for the story, but the relationship becomes the focus in the middle before it reverts back to the original plotline.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters of Meg and Jake as they both support each other in their journey. I loved how Maureen A. Miller has captured the haunting terror that Meg had living for the past year, the nightmares giving voice to the extremely dreadful situation she has been suffering.
"That night..." she hesitated, "...was endless. It still hasn't ended."
If you are a fan of romantic suspense, go ahead and read Endless Night as it is sure to keep you engaged on a stormy night.
Many thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Carlyle Labuschagne’s fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast is an utterly dark and grim story that I don’t want to even classify as a retelling ofCarlyle Labuschagne’s fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast is an utterly dark and grim story that I don’t want to even classify as a retelling of my favorite story.
A Beast So Beautiful is a must-read for all fans of fantasy, for no other reason than to enjoy the vivid imagery that the author has created with the descriptions of the Beast’s Kingdom called Ruith. It is an absolute mastery of words by Labuschagne with an explosive twisty ending that had me gasping at the end. My heart bleeds for Prince Leif, his kindness and fervent desire to control the beast in him and not be the reason for any more murder after having being locked for years together made him the perfect hero to root for.
The story begins in a way that had me scratching my head for a time, there’s no introduction of a scene or a prologue to ease into the story, it was sort of like a flight take off without any cruising thru the runway. Except for Prince Leif though I couldn’t enjoy any other characters. There’s a sense of wrongness that lurks underneath as you read the story and it is honestly hard to wait for book 2 to know how the curse and the greatest betrayal of Leif’s life are gonna play out.
A Beast So Beautiful is not a story that will have the readers smiling with romance in the air, if truth be told, the climax shakes the very core of the original fairy tale. The happy endings that we are so used to is probably coming up in the next book of the series but who knows what surprise Labuschagne has in store for the reader.
Highly recommended, just dive in expecting the unexpected. 4 stars for the story and a whole 1 star for that enchanting cover image....more
And A N Willis does it again. An exhilarating sequel to book 1, Evelyn and Alex continue their journey in Doors of Gold and Rust, 4 months after wrappAnd A N Willis does it again. An exhilarating sequel to book 1, Evelyn and Alex continue their journey in Doors of Gold and Rust, 4 months after wrapping up the events in book 1.
If book 1 had me thinking it could have had a more adrenaline-fuelled climax, Doors of Gold and Rust had me wishing exactly the opposite. Phew, I had to force myself to stop and give my galloping heart a breather before I could resume reading after a certain chapter in the book. The fantasy element surrounding the crystal and the serum continue to hold sway over Evelyn and the absence of Alex during her recovery is forcing her to rely on Jake. Well, sharing a near-death experience is sure to leave traces of affinity to that person even if that said person was an enemy. Hence, the romance between Alex and Evelyn suffers from jealousy and lack of trust and the problems faced by them seem insurmountable with decisions being taken by the adults in their life without concern for what they want.
Evelyn and Alex have more disastrous incidents to circumvent before they stay true to themselves and as more mysteries are unearthed from the grounds of Byrne House, they do have their work cut out. The danger that is hidden behind the door of gold and Danielle’s crazy scheming to get to it at whatever cost offers the reader yet another thrilling ride. I loved how the author has shown a deeper relationship between Evelyn and her mother Viv, unlike the first book. There’s more communication and openness between the two of them. Alex’s character is once again the highlight of this story for me, as he battles his possessiveness and overpowering love for Evelyn to give her space and just be there for her.
If there’s one thing that I wished to be in this book, it would be that I wanted Danielle to somehow be held responsible for her actions, but seeing Walter’s creation and realizing the irony of it all was probably enough.
Book 1 and 2 can be read as stand-alone but I strongly advise readers to read them as a duology. The relationships and the character sketch and the history of Byrne house can truly be enjoyed if read in order.
Fascinating 5 stars again ☔☔☔☔☔
Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter. ...more
Under Glass and Stone is a young adult Gothic mystery that is exceedingly well-plotted. Castle Heights is an area where most families can trace their Under Glass and Stone is a young adult Gothic mystery that is exceedingly well-plotted. Castle Heights is an area where most families can trace their roots to the time the town was completed and Byrne House is this looming spooky mansion that has a lot of painful history attached to it.
Milo Foster was on his way to meet his grandmother but the scream that pierces the air from Byrne House forces him to abandon his bike and rush into the house. It is an image that is going to haunt Evelyn in days to come as no one sees Milo again. Evelyn struggles to convince the police that Milo is still somewhere inside the huge gothic mansion with her own mother refusing to acknowledge her claims and believing it is her obsession with the house talking. Unexpected help comes in the form of Alex Evans with his own personal demons and connection to the old house.
The protagonists are 17 years old but thankfully the author has characterized them mostly with some sense and maturity which has been lacking in few YA books that I have read recently. The history of the house comes alive with the discovery of Ada Byrne’s letters to her sister Mary and this historical part was absolutely fascinating that I wished for more from Ada and her POV. The middle segment of the story veers a bit toward the teenage drama with a sampling of 3-way romance and jealousy but in all fairness, Byrne House with its labyrinthine tunnels and the mystery surrounding the hallucinations takes center stage soon, and the author hooks in the reader to offer a thumping ride. A.N Willis has worked wonders creating a creepy haunted feel with the description of Byrne House.
The romance between Alex and Evelyn was sweet and touching and the friendship between all of them filled with warmth, I loved how they join hands together to discover more about the intrigue that surrounds Byrne House. Alex was a fantastic character who had a streak of a daredevil to him but still had a sense of right and wrong. The fantasy element in the story adds to the anticipation of the thriller and the twisty plot had me reading this well into the night.
Highly recommended for fans of gothic mysteries with romance and suspense!
Mysterious 5 stars☔☔☔☔☔
Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter. ...more
It is such a pleasure to discover stories that have everything that you love in a book and Secrets In Oak Creek managed to be one of those books that It is such a pleasure to discover stories that have everything that you love in a book and Secrets In Oak Creek managed to be one of those books that filled me with joy.
Emily works as a graphic designer and is happy being alone and working from home. When her beloved aunt passes away and leaves her with an inheritance, Emily decides to take the plunge and shift to the house in Oak Creek. Ryan Collins is a celebrity fashion photographer returning to his hometown for a much-needed rest. On the way home from the airport, Ryan witnesses Emily’s accident, a deliberate act by an unknown person that begs reason. Forced to care for Emily’s dog Bentley, Ryan helps Emily settle back to her home and sparks fly.
B K Stubblefield paints a picturesque town beautifully but vices and dangers lurk under the surface of this small-town as Emily understands that her aunt, a fierce protector of abused dogs was on the trail of something quite sinister and deadly. The romance that develops between Emily and Ryan was absolutely toe-curl-worthy. The smoldering sexiness and the burning chemistry had me devour the book in one sitting. The mystery is not too heavy to decode, once the details are brought to light but I loved Ryan and of course Bentley. Dogs in a book are always a treasure and here, Bentley is super cute helping the couple and in one scene literally forcing Emily into Ryan’s hands.
Easy to read romantic suspense, this is book #1 in the Oak Creek series, and Book #2, I understand takes their adventure further and I do look forward to reading it ASAP.
Absorbing ☔☔☔☔☔
Many thanks to BookSirens, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
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