Morgan's Musings
Just my rambling, plus whatever book I've recently read!
Genres: Young Adult, Time Travel, Fantasy Blurb: Gemma Hart never knows when her father is going to whisk her back in time. Her toes start tingling and she has a few minutes to find a secret haven where she can disintegrate and appear in another time and place. While “across the line,” her training and skills are put to the test as she completes a mission that will change history for the lucky few her father has selected. Gemma's parents are adamant that secrecy is paramount to her family’s safety. If people knew what they were capable of, they could be "used and abused", as her mother always says. Afraid she might accidentally utter the truth and break the ancient oath of her people, Gemma spends her school days as a loner. Only one thing can throw her sheltered life askew... Harrison Granger. Harrison never expected to talk to the strange Hart girl, but after a brief encounter he can't stop thinking about her. He begins a campaign to chisel away her icy veneer and is met with unexpected consequences. As he slowly wins this girl over, he enters a surreal world that has him fighting to keep his newfound love and his life. My Thoughts: GOLDEN BLOOD is the first book in the Time Spirit Trilogy and we are introduced to Gemma and her time travelling family. She is called a freak at school and keeps to herself, but it is only because she made a terrible mistake when she was only thirteen. It has made her very wary about letting anyone in. Even more so when you consider her secret life. Harrison has been the outsider and is determined it won't be the same at this school. Even if that means dodgy the bully brother of the girl who won't leave him alone. He is intrigued by Gemma and wants to know her better. This was a great read with a suspension of reality. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the siblings, although I didn't like the parents at all (which was the idea!) There were a couple of points that stood out, that jarred me out of the story, but I was quickly able to move on and continue reading. The relationship takes time to develop between Gemma and Harrison but, once they do, it's pretty much insta-love declarations, even if it's not to each other. There are some pretty big signs leading you to the next book, including the appearance of a new character within the last few pages. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to continuing with the twists and turns that comprise Gemma's story! Melissa Pearl is a romance author writing in a variety of genres from teen paranormal romance to adult romantic suspense. She also writes under the pen names Jordan Ford & Melody Sweet. She’s passionate about telling love stories with relatable characters who will take you on a journey. If you’re after an escape from reality and the ultimate romantic adventure, then you’re in the right place.
Melissa Pearl is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download their Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library www.melissapearlauthor.com Email: [email protected]
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Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance Blurb: All she wanted was to disappear… Claire Martin is an empath. She’s lived her entire life as a slave to a constant barrage of emotions that weren't hers. Off to college, she hopes simply to blend with the crowd where she can best hide her curse. Within her first few weeks at school Claire meets Stephen Andrews, a small, fragile looking boy who changes her life forever. Stephen, a boy with a secret of his own, instantly recognizes Claire for what she is. It is through Stephen's aid that Claire meets James, a vampire with a talent of his own. As soon as they touch, their abilities connect in a way that has not occurred in over three hundred years forming a bond that cannot be broken. My Thoughts: EMPATH is the first book in The Empath Trilogy and we are introduced to Claire, an empath who shies away from touch - any touch, even that of her family. She is cutting the apron strings though, and heading off to college, where she hopes her gift will be kept under control simply by the fact of not knowing anyone there. This was the first in a series so I didn't expect to have all the answers by the time it finished. However, a few more would have been nice. Claire in thrust into the paranormal world with nary the blink of an eye. She finds out about different types of people, most having gifts of their own, and also meets someone she wants to call her own. The relationship between Claire and James moved in fits and starts for me. It was very quick in places (post-nightclub) and then slow in others. I did like that she didn't automatically put herself in danger and wait for James to rescue her. I would have liked more of a relationship between her and other characters though - Henry, Stephen, Heidi, to name a few. We end with a HFN and a lead into the next book. This was a long book that allowed me to become immersed in the story. I enjoyed it and look forward to continuing the trilogy. HK lives in the frozen hinterlands of the far North. The long, cold months provide ample opportunity to hunker down with her computer and create adventures far more enticing than scraping ice and getting frostbite.
Between books HK reads voraciously. Anything with a good plot and compelling characters are her broad parameters. One is as likely to catch her with a copy of Don Quixote as with the latest Kristen Ashley. When not writing or wowing the corporate world by day, HK practices martial arts, plays with her dogs and matches wits with her teen. Next winter she intends to brush up on her Spanish and escape the cold for somewhere more tropical. Genres: Fantasy, Romance Blurb: He leans down, lips parted, and then our lips connect ... We didn’t know that this one kiss has FOREVER changed the Land of the Fae. According to the Prophecy proclaimed many years ago, Princess Calista of the Summer Court is destined to change the Land of the Fae from the evil determined to destroy it. Her powers are phenomenal, and she secretly trains for battle with her handsome warrior friend, Merrick, who unbeknownst to her protects her heart as well, in hopes of keeping it for himself. At least, until the seductive Prince Ryder attends the Guardian Ceremony and instantly sends a fire burning through her veins and a connection so deep they both discover a love above anything imaginable. No one knows how Calista is destined to change the kingdoms, but there is one that does. He not only craves Calista’s power, but her body as well, and his goal is to steal her power, make her his Dark Queen, and take over the Land of the Fae. Will the evil succeed in claiming Calista’s soul? Or will the two men that fight for her heart save her from despair, and help her fulfill her destiny to become what she was meant to be. **Does contain some graphic language and sexual content. May not be suitable for young adults.** My Thoughts: Forever Fae is the first book in the series of the same name, and we have the Summer and Winter Courts of the Fae. However, a prophecy says there will be four. And the power for these Courts reside in four maidens and their partners. Unfortunately, there is also a dark wizard who wants the power for himself and will stop at nothing to get it, even going so far as to inhabit other bodies and kidnap princesses. Told from various perspectives, you are taken with Calista as she accepts her best friend (who is in love with her) as her Guardian, as she meets her soul mate and instantly falls in love, and is kidnapped. There are parts of this that seem very young adult as it is almost formulaic in places. But then you get steamy scenes and swearing that put it right back out of the young adult genre. I enjoyed this story but it didn't blow me away. It was a case of being able to guess what was about to happen before it did. I was told about the connection between Merrick and Calista, and Ryder and Calista, but I didn't really feel it. On the whole, this was an enjoyable read, full of magic and prophecy, but I don't think I'll be continuing with the series. I'm sure this will be the perfect book for other readers though. New York Times and USA Today bestselling author L. P. Dover is a southern belle living in North Carolina with her husband and two beautiful girls. Everything’s sweeter in the South has always been her mantra and she lives by it, whether it’s with her writing or in her everyday life. Maybe that’s why she’s seriously addicted to chocolate.
Dover has written countless novels in several different genres, including a children’s book with her daughter. Her favorite to write is romantic suspense, but she’s also found a passion in romantic comedy. She loves to make people laugh which is why you’ll never see her without a smile on her face. Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal Blurb: After her mother and grandparents die in a raging house fire, eleven-year-old Sarah Redbird ends up in the custody of her aunt and uncle. Six years later, Sarah discovers the fire may not have been an accident at all, but a deliberate act of revenge. Sarah's family has kept the truth of their Native American heritage secret her entire life, refusing to acknowledge where they came from. But when a family that has direct ties to their past moves to town, Sarah's true identity is revealed. What Sarah soon learns is that some secrets are better left unspoken. My Thoughts: THE SPIRIT KEEPER is the first book in the series of the same name that talks about Native American legends and the ability to control the elements but, for the most part, it reads as a contemporary. I found this to be quite formulaic but also thoroughly enjoyable. You have the sweet sixteen - nearly seventeen, thank you very much - high school student who is bullied by the Queen B. A new guy arrives in town, liked by the in-crowd but he is too cool for that, and falls for our MC instead. There is insta-love - in just a month, they are declaring their feelings. BUT there is a reason for that. After all, a deep bond can be forged when someone is trying to kill you. I read this in one sitting, gripped by the story. I loved the dialogue between Sarah and Priscilla. Shyla was a wonderful surprise, the power transfer suspected. This book left me feeling satisfied and yet still wanting more, which is always a good thing! I would have like a bit more about the Native American side of things, but hopefully, that will happen in future books. I'm really glad I read this and have no hesitation in recommending it. Melissa Luznicky Garrett began "writing" books at the tender age of five before she was old enough to do much more than print her name. When she wasn't watching Sesame Street or Mister Roger's Neighborhood, she could be found sitting in front of her parents' typewriter, transcribing the conversations inside her head one keystroke at a time. Now all grown up, Melissa has several published novels. She lives in upstate New York with her husband, three children, and numerous animals.
Melissa is a certified elementary general education and special education teacher. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in literacy education. GENRES: Dystopian, Romance, Young Adult BLURB: Block it out. Impossible for Talia Lyons. When you’re a Mind Manipulator, it’s hard enough to block the thoughts of others, let alone your own. Block it out. The pounding, siren-ready world Talia inhabits as she trains with her fellow Hunters, the country's top-secret covert operatives. The physical demands. The emotional toll. Block it out. The secrets that Talia’s boyfriend is hiding. Talia’s unbidden feelings of frustration and annoyance toward her teammate, the Casanova of the compound. The wondering why she cares what he thinks. Block him out. Ian Crane. The man behind the bloodshed marring Talia’s memories of her murdered parents. The man she’s determined to kill. Block it all out. Focus. Talented is an emotionally raw Dystopian Romance, about the life of a girl with extraordinary psychic powers, and what happens when a heart is torn between love and rage. MY THOUGHTS: TALENTED is the first book in the Talented Saga and there is so much I am looking forward to with this book! First of all, we meet Natalia. Her psychic powers were awakened when she saw her parents murdered in front of her. She was taken in and looked after by a powerful family who helped her see her potential. She is now in a school, training to be a Hunter, and wanting revenge on her parents' murderer. Right then, so... this was a great story that I was hooked into from the beginning. Talia likes her food and we get lots of descriptions of the various foods she eats. Plus, the world-building is full of differences between our world and Talia's, which really helps set the scene of a dystopian society. There is a love triangle in this book, and I really don't like those! Donovan is Talia's first love, her best friend and family. Erik is on the same team of Hunters as Talia, and has a bit of a reputation. Even before anything went down, I knew who I wanted Talia to be with. Whether that happens remains to be seen. As for Mac, I don't like him. AT ALL. Simple as! There is so much that goes on in this story - it is action-packed. I will be continuing with the series because there are answers I need... plus I need to find out about Talia/Erik/Donovan. A great dystopian read that I have no hesitation in recommending. "Sophie Davis" is the pseudonym for two best friends, roommates, and now writing partners. The pair met In law school and instantly bonded over their love of great books and bad horror movies. After they graduated, when one longed for the ability to read minds so she wouldn't have to study for the bar exam, a Saga was born. When the Talented Saga went on to be an internationally bestselling series, the girls decided to throw caution to the wind and follow their shared life-long dream of being writers. The duo currently lives in Washington, D.C. with a poodle and a rescued mutt. The pups are their faithful companions—with frequent social media appearances—as the girls navigate the world of Indie Publishing. For more information, visit www.SophieDavisBooks.com
Genres: Mythology, Fantasy, Witchcraft, Druidry Blurb: The veil between the worlds is shredding. The old gods are calling. Erin inherits a cottage in a remote village from a grandmother she's never met. A village full of witches and Druids. But ownership of the cottage comes with a non-negotiable condition, and it's one Erin's not sure she can meet. Coming from a world that doesn't believe in magic, can she change her mind in time to survive initiation and walk the path of her ancient ancestors? The Gathering is the first book in Katherine Genet's new Wilde Grove mythic fiction series. If you like mythology, real-life witchcraft, and have ever wondered what's behind the veil to the Otherworld, you'll love the Wilde Grove books. My Thoughts: WHAT. A. BOOK! The Gathering tells the story of Erin, an adopted daughter who has been diagnosed with "Dissociative Fugue" and has never felt like she quite fitted in. When she finds out she has inherited a cottage (with conditions) from her birth grandmother, she is intrigued and goes to find out more. This leads her on a journey she never expected and yet is more than capable of fulfilling. There are so many parts to this book and I am struggling to mention them all! The characters are amazing, both the main one and also the supporting cast. Erin is stronger than she realises, but she has to learn that the hard way. I am sure there will be more stumbles along the way, as she has to figure out who she is by doing, not by reading in a book. I adored the descriptions of Macha, and the old leader of the Grove. One of my favourite parts was that Elen of the Ways was mentioned and honoured. The invocations and prayers sent a shiver down my spine in the most delightful way. This is a long book, designed to pull you into the story and not let you go until the last word. Even then, you will be left wanting more. And can I just mention the cover? Absolutely stunning. This is a series of books that I will not only be re-reading but that I will be buying the paperbacks of, so I can sit them and stare at the gorgeous covers. If you are a Witch, Druid, Wicca, or just like the Old Religions, then I absolutely recommend this book. If you like contemporary fantasy, then I absolutely recommend this book. In fact, why don't I just say I absolutely recommend this book? Because I do! Go and grab your copy now. You won't be disappointed. Hi everyone – I’m Katherine Genet, and I’ve been writing for almost ten years now, in a range of genres, both fiction and non-fiction, and under a few pennames. I’m a pagan Druid, and with the Wilde Grove series, I’m following that old writer’s advice of ‘write what you know’ (plus, it’s just really cool). Welcome to my world of goddesses, gods, spirits, witches and Druids, and reach out with me to learn the ancient practices of our ancestors. Who knows what adventures we’ll have along the way…
Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult Blurb: Addison Sanders thought her life was already as complicated as it could possibly get. Akori - Ancient people with time shifting abilities living in secret among the humans. Sanders Family - Humans sworn to protect and hide the Akori. What could be worse than getting stuck with a destiny like that? Tanner Sutherland is about to show her. When a death in the Sanders Family leaves their power and secrets up for grabs, centuries old rumors begin surfacing. Far more sinister reasons for her family's involvement with the Akori than Addy ever could've imagined come to light. She learns the hard way that placing her trust in anyone could lead to disaster. Betrayed by old friends and leery of new ones--she's left to cut through the lies and deception to get to the truth. Find out why sometimes its better not knowing, and how much misery really does love company in Dissever - Book One of the Unbinding Fate Series. My Thoughts: Dissever is the first book in the Unbinding Fate series and hold onto your hats because you're in for a bumpy ride. Addy has been trained to be the next Overseer of the Akori by working in a library with her grandfather for years. What does the Overseer do? Well, apart from move a magical castle to various locations, I'm not entirely sure. But anyway, she's also female, which throws a spanner into the works as the Overseer has always been male... so, what to do? Nothing, because her grandfather has told her it will be okay. Gage is an old friend who suddenly stopped being a friend, but now wants to be again. Tanner is a new friend with lots in common with Addy... maybe/possibly. These three carry the story as changes occur and new people arrive on the scene that Addy has no clue about. I did enjoy this story but I found it to be convoluted and full of twists and turns. I have no idea who the prologue involved, even by the time I finished the book. I know it is a series but surely some questions can be answered in the first book? My favourite characters were Gage and Tanner because they said what they meant, and they stood by it. Addy changed her mind and opinions way too often for me. There were other characters that stood out, and others I wanted to crush, so if engaging with characters is your thing, you will probably enjoy this book! On the whole, I enjoyed it. I finished it, which is always a good thing, but whether or not I carry on with the series, I haven't yet decided. Colee Firman has always been a closet writer. As an only child, there were constantly stories swimming around in her head. In 2012, she finally started unleashing them on the world, beginning with The Unbinding Fate Series.
As a Michigan native, she never passes up a chance to escape the winter weather. When she’s not working at her day job or writing, she’s traveling with her longtime boyfriend, reading with her cat, or binging on Netflix. Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Historical Blurb: For generations the Incenaga Witches have been forced to use their power to fulfill the wishes of others until they are drained of their magic and left to die. Desperate to protect his infant daughter - the last surviving witch - Emmeline's father escapes with her to the forests where he vows to keep her hidden from the world and from the truth. Sixteen years later, Emmeline is discovered and finds herself in the grip of a traitor who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, even if it means abusing her power until she dies. She is taken to a distant country and told she must marry the Crown Prince or her own country will be overtaken, its people slaughtered. But what sort of prince would marry a witch? And why would she be the difference between war and peace? As she fights to regain her freedom, she is faced with a choice between a prince who offers a lifetime of security and a common gamekeeper who has no idea of her power, but offers his heart. But who do you trust when your power can be used against you? My Thoughts: THE LAST WITCH is the first book in the Incenaga series, and we start off in the dark just as much as Emmaline is. We stay by Emmaline's side throughout, learning as she does about who and what she is, what she can do, and the dangers involved. The idea behind the Incenaga Witches was brilliant, and allows us to see Emmaline as she comes to understand the power and the danger. I loved how it was something that could be used against her, and yes, I know that sounds odd! Trust me though, if you read it, it will make sense. I promise! The world building, descriptions, and character building are all brilliant, leading to a slightly predictable but oh so enjoyable story that sets up book two excellently. This was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed, and have no hesitation in recommending. Debbie Dee recently moved to southern Idaho with her husband and three children where she is learning how to be a country girl in her favorite pair of blue heels. She adores fairy tales and happy endings, but secretly crushes on the bad guy now and then.
As a dedicated musician who practices way too much, she never expected writing would sweep her off her feet until she jotted down a scene from a daydream, which turned into two scenes, which turned into a messy house and her first novel. Since then she hasn’t been able to let a day go by without writing. In addition to writing, she plays the piano, harp, violin, and gets in frequent fights with her cello. She loves to read and play board games - when she is winning. Genres: Fantasy, Adventure Blurb: Before there was Dun Lady’s Jess… Magic, betrayal, and a twice-cursed exile–only one man’s determination can untangle the deadly intrigue that binds them together. When Ehren’s sovereign and friend was killed, Ehren, First of the King’s Guard, was far away — sent on a wild goose chase by the First Level Ministry, whose number he now believes must contain at least one traitor. When a First Level wizard orders him to stop searching for the assassins and instead to find and neutralize the dead king’s distant family, his suspicions deepen to near certainty. And Ehren is determined to find those exiles – if only so that he may guard them with his life. My Thoughts: BARRENLANDS is a prequel action and adventure high fantasy story that starts of with the betrayal and murder of Benlan, the King of Solvany. This starts a set of events that rocks the world that Ehren knows, and with it, just who he can trust. Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I wish we'd been given more information about Varien. He was the big bad from the start, giving out dodgy missions and trying to kill our hero. However, we never really learn WHY. Ehren guesses it's power or greed, but doesn't know for sure. Maybe more information is given in subsequent books, I don't know. All in all, I enjoyed this foray into different lands, with different obstacles to overcome. If you are looking for a high fantasy that will leave you wanting the next book immediately, then I can definitely recommend this one. Doranna Durgin is an award-winning author (the Compton Crook for Best First SF/F/H novel) whose quirky spirit has led to an extensive and eclectic publishing journey across genres, publishers, and publishing lines. Beyond that, she hangs around outside her Southwest mountain home with horse and highly accomplished competition dogs. She doesn't believe in mastering the beast within, but in channeling its power--for good or bad has yet to be decided! She says, “My books are SF/F, mystery, paranormal romance, & romantic suspense. My world is the Southwest, and my dogs are Beagles!”
Doranna’s most recent releases encompass the three books of the Reckoners trilogy--a powerful ghostbuster raised by a spirit, her brilliantly eccentric backup team, a cat who isn't a cat, and a fiercely driven bounty hunter from a different dimension who brings them together when worlds collide. Genres: Paranormal, Romance Blurb: "My lifetime wish was to become extraordinary..." When shy Cassandra Stone meets gorgeous Alexander Grayson, he captivates her heart. He is handsome, charming, sweet, and mysterious - and completely out of her league! But strange events pull Cassie and her puppy, Astra, deep into the magical life of Alex and his family. As Cassie and Alex fall in love, Cassie learns she and Astra are vital to the Graysons' world and she must fit her life around her new role as Star Kin. "...but extraordinary lives come at a price." Then the Graysons' cruel enemies threaten to claim Cassie and Astra. Alex and his friends must protect them, but facing this threat may destroy Cassie and Alex's blossoming romance. Sacrifice is key when defending the first human Star Kin. Will their love be enough to keep the star-crossed pair together? Can Cassie learn how to protect Astra and help her new friends when she is only a fragile human? And who can Cassie turn to when her secret life as a Star Kin is falling apart? My Thoughts: THE CELESTIAL KIN is the first book in The Heart Stone Trilogy, and I read it in one sitting. I was completely engrossed in Cassie's story, and now I can't wait to find out more. Cassie hasn't had the easiest childhood, with her dad dying and intense bullying at a previous school, but things are good now. They get even better when Alex and his family shows up in town. Things don't always go their way though, and Cassie will have to draw on reserves she didn't even know she had. I did find this Twilight-esque with a twist in places, but I didn't find that a detraction from the story that Evie Asterwyn has made her own. I love the idea of shape-shifting stars! I'm hoping in the next book I will learn more about the Star Kin and Clans, but there was more than enough information here to keep me informed of what was going on. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and have no hesitation in recommending it. Also, when is book two available?! I am a 34 year old writer from New Zealand. I write Young Adult fantasy fiction, and am working on my series entitled "The Star Kin Chronicles". I have been writing since 2011, with a small hiatus while I attended Massey University during 2013 - 2016, to obtain my Dip, Arts. My favorite genres to read are suspense/thrillers (i.e. Dean Koontz), mysteries (i.e. Agatha Christie), humor (i.e. Janet Evanovich - definitely read her work, its fabulous!) fantasy (i.e. Anne McCaffery), and I am always on the lookout for new authors to enjoy.
I had previously self-published my first novel -Extraordinary Part 1. It was part of a 2 part book - the first in the Star Kin Chronicles. I have learned lots about writing, editing, and preparing to market e-books, and have, in the process, decided to re-write and re-publish this book as a trilogy. Watch this space, as I will be re-releasing the first book of the trilogy this year, and will be organising updates to my Facebook Author Page and a brand new website. I can also be found on Twitter. |
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