Morgan's Musings
Just my rambling, plus whatever book I've recently read!
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Novella Blurb: The water beckons… Illista and her sister fled their homeland when invaders killed their parents and tried to enslave the girls’ innate water magic. Now disguised as servile Waki, Illista serves the Segra people on the dusty high plains, far from the warm oceans of her childhood. One night, lured by the siren song of the Segra’s sacred lake waters, Illista sheds her Waki disguise for a swim and becomes witness to a murder attempt on the Segra chief’s only son and heir. War looms… Joral’s marriage to the daughter of another tribe will seal the peace between the warring nations and strengthen both halves of the Segra people against invaders from the West. When he is poisoned and nearly drowned on the night of his betrothal, a mysterious sprite of a woman saves his life. Was the attempt on his life the workings of a rival, or was it tied to the sudden arrival of Western mercenaries who seek the missing water witches? A secret revealed… When Joral discovers Illista’s secret, will he sacrifice her to secure peace for his people? Or will he follow his heart for the sake of a water sprite who may be the Segra’s only hope for restoring the rains to the drought-ridden land? My Thoughts: CALL THE RAIN is a fast-paced novella that could easily lead to a full-length novel or even series. The world-building is good enough that you can see the different locations and types of people - some of whom have magic and some don't. Illista and her sister are the last survivors of a tribe that was decimated by a warlord who wanted their powers for his own. They have disguised themselves as a different race, one that blends in. That has worked so far but it appears their past has caught up with them. There is a hint of romance here but it takes a backseat to the rest of the story. It is only at the end that it really shows its head. There are some parts that aren't fully delved into - either purposefully or accidentally, I'm not sure - which left me with questions. I found this to be an easy read that whisked me away to a different land that I would like to return to one day... if only to find out about Illista's sister and her sorcerer! A voracious reader since before she can remember, Kristi has always been drawn to romance, science fiction, and fantasy (preferably all three). Now, when she isn’t reading her favorite books to herself or to her kids, she is writing her own stories. Kristi, her husband, and their two children live with a pair of cats rescued from life on the streets of suburban St. Louis.
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Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal Blurb: A girl with an unknown destiny. A boy from a hidden world. When Celeste starts at a new school in a small, Kansas town, she hears whispering voices, has vivid nightmares, and swarms of blackbirds follow her every move. She is oddly drawn to aloof Rylan, the other new student who has his own secrets. The exact moment she turns seventeen, she wakes to a bedroom full of strange creatures, purple light emanating from her hands, and Rylan breaking in through her bedroom window. He knows what she is . . . Intriguing and deeply romantic, RUA is page-turning YA novel with a supernatural twist. My Thoughts: RUA is the first book in the Rua series and I'm still waiting on what the connection is between Celeste and the meaning of the word! We start of with Celeste having just moved to a new town, an occurrence that happens frequently enough that she is not bothered about not having close friends. On her first day, she is befriended by Tink -- her new gay best friend who has a healthy interest in Wicca. A good thing for Celeste because things are about to get strange. I love reading Celtic-based fantasy but all too often it is Irish-based Celtic fantasy, which this was. Still, there is enough information here to tease the imagination whilst certainly not overwhelm the reader. The story itself is nicely wrapped up for this instalment, whilst leaving the overall story arc open and definitely leaving you wanting more. I have a number of questions that simply need to be answered! A good YA read that will hopefully lead onto bigger things. Miranda Kavi is a romance and paranormal fiction author. Her books have been listed on the top 100 best seller lists on Amazon and iTunes. She has worked as an attorney, an executive recruiter, and an assistant in a biological anthropology lab. She loves scary movies, museums, and is hopelessly addicted to chocolate.
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy Blurb: Lily Mauve's parents move her 1700 miles across the country to the town of Salem and into the 400 year old family home. It's here Lily discovers the extensive magical history of the Mauve family, learns about her own powers and falls deeply in love with her new best friend's brother. She meets family she never knew she had, but she quickly grows to love them. She allies with vampires, creatures she thought were made up. Everything is tipped upside down when one of her new friends is hurt at the Homecoming dance because of who she is, and when the attempts on Lily's life start she realises fear is no longer an option. Her Uncle eventually lets slip the true meaning of her Grand-mamar's prophecy and Lily's world changes. She wants to go quietly, save the people she loves but her rare mental connection with Ava means Ava knows her every thought, and she won't let her go. But ultimately, she must fight for the safety of those closest to her, even when lightning strikes and her family's world is shattered. My Thoughts: A MAGICAL HISTORY is the first book in The Mauve Legacy and I found this to be a great read. I found it completely refreshing that someone could move to a new school and fit in! Yep, and even be a cheerleader. The social outcast has been done to the hills and back and I loved that Lily knew what she wanted and went for it. The pacing is fairly fast but it works for this story. Lily is a brilliant character and spoke many a word of wisdom. She is ably supported by a cast of amazing supporting characters too. Jerome, I'm looking at you! It isn't all sweetness and light though. I knew something would happen but didn't know what. And when it did, it hurt! The ending will definitely leave you wanting more but it is a cliffhanger, so be warned. Absolutely recommended by me. I'm 19 years old and I live in Barnstaple, a small town in Devon, England. I'm a country girl born and bred.
I grew up with what some people may call an unhealthy love of books. My mother encouraged me to read whenever I could. I told her at the age of eight - and anyone who would listen - that when I was 'all growed up' I would write a book. After leaving school at 16 with 12 GCSE's, I dropped out of a hairdressing apprenticeship when I fell pregnant with my daughter, Alexia-Belle. I had her two days before Christmas, 2010. I was 17 at the time, and since then I've lived with the stigma and judgement that comes with being a teen mum. I discovered Smashwords and indie authors on my partners iPhone in Spring 2012 - completely by chance. After proceeding to steal his phone for hours every night to feed my reading addiction, he turned around and said, 'why don't you write a book instead of reading all the time?'' And in that second, The Mauve Legacy Series, my debut Young Adult Fantasy & Paranormal series was born. I write whenever and wherever I can. Naptimes, bedtimes, and even on my phone when inspiration strikes. I once wrote 22 word document pages worth in the notes section of my phone - simply because. Until the release of Lily; The Witch Hunter, The Mauve Legacy Omnibus Edition, I did all the work alone. Writing, reading, editing, cover creating.. It was a solo endeavor. Now, however, I'm blessed with a team of six fabulous Beta Readers - Kayleigh, Samm, Tammy, Kimberley, Natasha and Andrea. I'm also lucky enough to have Kayleigh double as my proof reader and editor. Besides Samm, who is my cousin, I met all the other girls online when I was pregnant and I'm amazed at the support they've given me so far, despite me only just revealing my work to my online friends. This or That: Chocolate or Vanilla? - Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie! Wellies or High Heels? - Wellies, every time. Coffee or Tea? - Hot Chocolate. With mini marshmallows and cream. Mmm. Summer or Winter? - Ooh, that's tough. Winter, probably. Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings? - Mr Potter, hands down! Amazon or eBay? - Both. eBook or Print? - Ahhh! Both. I can't choose. Comedy or Horror? - Comedy! Salt or Pepper? - Err, ketchup. 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] 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: 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: 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. HIRAETHComing 8th March 2021 but now available for pre-order https://books2read.com/Hiraeth2021 Ellis Clarke goes on holiday to Beddgelert and finds more than she bargained for. Ellis Clarke has never felt at home anywhere, always feeling a sense of nostalgia for somewhere that she doesn’t know. When she goes to Beddgelert on vacation, she is overwhelmed by the feeling of belonging. Of course, the handsome Luke may have something to do with that. Luke Maddox is a Guardian of Wales, a red Dragon who patrols the skies with the rest of his Weyr. When he meets Ellis and she is welcomed home by Merlin, he knows he has found the other half of him... but only if Ellis acknowledges him. How will she claim him when she has no knowledge of being either a Guardian or a Dragon? Will Ellis find and accept her lost responsibility or will Luke fade away before she figures it out? 'Hiraeth is a Welsh word for homesickness or nostalgia, an earnest longing or desire, or a sense of regret.' #Contemporary #MagicalRealism #Wales #Hiraeth #Dragons |
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