Morgan's Musings
Just my rambling, plus whatever book I've recently read!
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance Blurb: Eighteen-year-old Ria, a fire elemental and privileged student at the University of Magic, thinks nothing can get in the way of her happiness. Even when she falls for Michael, a boy whose element is different from hers, she is determined to make their forbidden romance work. But when she starts experiencing the symptoms of magic disease that could rob her of her element, turn her into a cold-blooded killer, and shatter her life, all of her beliefs are put to the test. The only one who might be able to help her is Adrian, a mysterious, charming, and dangerous magic disease carrier, who also happens to be her least favorite person in the world. YA Fantasy/Romance for mature teens. My Thoughts: Dangerous is the first book in the Element Preservers series and, to be honest, for the first 50% of the book I was bored. Ria, our main female, has an attitude that made my palm itch. Privileged, spoilt, opinionated, you name it. Her best friend falls in love with the resident bad boy and becomes a doormat. The 'hot hunk' Ria falls for is supposed to be the opposite of our bad boy but just becomes weak instead. It is only when Ria found out she was a carrier that it became interesting. Now, part of my disgruntlement may be because of the love triangle. I've said it before and no doubt I'll say it again but these really aren't my thing. And sleeping with your best-friend's boyfriend whilst you're with someone else takes it to a whole new level. Anyway, the second half of the book is a great deal more involved than the first and it not only held my interest but has me looking for the next book. Oliver is a great character I hope we see more from. Adrian continues to make me smile even when he's being a d*ck. Ria, well, we'll see. On the whole, this was a good read with some excellent parts that I hope to see more from. Give it a go is my recommendation! Alycia Linwood is the author of the Element Preservers series (Dangerous, Runaway, Divided, No One, Restless, Indestructible), the Tainted Elements series (Different, Invisible, Monster, Captive, Hunted, Resilient), the Deadly Destiny series (Vampire Trouble, Vampire Problem, Vampire Issue, Vampire Conflict, Vampire Trial), the Elemental Earths series (Water Princess), and Human. She loves to read and write, especially urban fantasy, paranormal romance, dystopian and young adult novels. http://alycialinwood.weebly.com/
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#BookoftheMonth - A Bond Of Venom and Magic (The Goddess and the Guardians #1) by Karen Tomlinson23/6/2020 Genres: Epic, Fantasy Blurb: Magic awakens. Darkness stirs. The Wraith Lord is hunting. The war raging in the South seems a remote danger for seventeen-year-old Diamond Gillon until her home is brutally attacked by the Wraith Lord’s monstrous hunters. Catapulted into a terrifying new world where legendary beasts arise, magic is condemned, and half-blood fae like her have no rights, Diamond is inexplicably drawn to her saviour. But Commander Hugo Casimir is a ruthless elite guard owned by a cruel, immortal fae queen who will murder her own people for magic. As she sinks deeper into Hugo’s world, Diamond’s circumstances become ever more perilous, for the Queen desires her magic and covets the very same prize as the Wraith Lord. To discover who she truly is, Diamond must escape the Queen’s clutches—before her fate, and that of The Eight Kingdoms, is sealed in shadow and chaos. Will Hugo prove to be her friend, her protector, or an enemy not worthy of her trust? A Bond of Venom and Magic is an epic fantasy tale, ideal for mature Young Adult readers. Fans of Sarah J Maas and Leigh Bardugo will love to discover this spectacular new world steeped in dragons, monsters, and armoured winged warriors. My Thoughts: A Bond of Venom and Magic is the first book in The Goddess and the Guardians series and it starts off with the reader immediately in the midst of the action. Armoured Winged Fae, hounds from hell (or similar), fights to the death, it's all going on. This was a great introduction to this world and I really have high hopes for Hugo and Diamond but it did start to grate on me, just a tad, with their lack of trust and miscommunication. Now, I get it. I really do. I wouldn't trust someone who worked for the enemy under those circumstances either BUT we hear of this connection between them and how Diamond really believes Hugo this time but then it all changes and we're back to hating him. This detracted slightly from the story for me and I do hope there is less of this in the future books in the series. Saying that though, I think that was my biggest gripe. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can't wait to delve back into Hugo's world sometime in the near future. Karen Tomlinson is a USA Today Bestselling Author, who writes all genres of fantasy books.
Karen adores books and will read any that catch her eye. She was whisked away by fairies as a child, has been a dragon rider and grew up learning to fight. (This bit's true!) She likes nothing better than an epic fantasy full of romance and hot warriors. Karen lives in Derbyshire, England, (think Mr Darcy territory) with her husband, twin girls and her dalmatian, Poppy. When she is not busy writing, reading (or eating cake and drinking coffee) Karen likes to keep fit with practising karate, walking in the hills, or dancing around the kitchen with her earbuds in and singing badly! Join Karen's mailing list to receive free stories, writing updates and hear about her crazy life. Sign up here ➜ https://www.subscribepage.com/karentomlinson She loves to connect with her readers and you can find her on: www.karentomlinson.com. Follow her on: Facebook [email protected]. Facebook group-Karen Tomlinson's Silver Guardians. Twitter-@kytomlinson Instagram-@karentomlinsonauthor Genres: #Fantasy, #Romance Blurb: Trapped in a loveless marriage. Unable to find evidence of a prior marriage contract. Prince Killian Rhys searches for another way out. Beset by enemies within and without, Serena NicArryan struggles to find her way as the queen of the Dragon Fey without her love at her side. Fulfilling a role determined for her by the Dark Fey Elders, Katia Rhys fights to hold on to the one thing that can save her from oblivion … her marriage. Determined to see his line continue to rule the Kingdom of Illedria, King Mathias Rhys will do anything to see his son, Killian, fulfill his royal obligations, no matter who the boy truly loves. In the battle for true love, which side will win? My Thoughts: Dragon's Blood is the last book (so far) in this saga but it ends on one heck of a cliffhanger so I will be searching to see when (or if) the next book is due. Serena and Killian are still separated, Katia is pregnant with Killian's child, Mathias' health continues to rise and fall as he makes erratic decisions. I will be honest here. As much as I enjoyed this story, it didn't move along enough for me. Yes, there are parts where we take a hop, skip, and a jump but most of it is just "same old" but with different scenarios. We know Serena and Killian want to be together. We know they miss each other. We know the letters are a slice of hope to each of them. And we know that Katia will do what she has to to keep her child and save her own skin. I have thoroughly enjoyed the series and I really hope there is more to come. If there is another book, you can be sure I will be buying it. For now, though, it appears I am leaving Serena and Killian separated with apparently no hope. If you like fantasy then I have no hesitation in recommending this series. A lifelong California girl, Michelle Rabe tried the Hollywood thing but decided she preferred an author’s den to the actor’s trailer. She now lives in the Phoenix, AZ with her unhelpful author cat and a very understanding roommate.
Genres: #Fantasy, #Romance Blurb: Crown Prince Killian Rhys's life has been defined by duty for as long as he can recall. Duty ties him to a wife he does not love. Duty separates him from the woman he loves, a woman once believed to be beneath him. Duty holds him to the people he will one day rule. Can Killian break free of duty's chains before his wife binds him with more than vows? Will he find a path to his true love, or will duty wrap him in inescapable shackles? My Thoughts: Dragon's Soul is the second book in The Dragon Fey series and it continues where Dragon's Heart left off. In this one we see Serena fulfilling her role as Dragon Fey Queen, against all odds. It's not just those of different courts who don't want to see her rule. Killian has his hands full still with Katia and his father, although that took a darker twist! The scene has already been set in book one so reading this was like settling down with a comfy blanket and just being able to relax and enjoy the story as it unfolded before my eyes. The characters remain true to themselves, doing the best they can in difficult situations. This is a great addition to the series, carrying with it all the intrigue and betrayal as seen in Dragon's Heart. Thoroughly enjoyed by me and I look forward to book three. A lifelong California girl, Michelle Rabe tried the Hollywood thing but decided she preferred an author’s den to the actor’s trailer. She now lives in the Phoenix, AZ with her unhelpful author cat and a very understanding roommate.
Genres: #Fantasy, #Romance Blurb: Serena Harlowe always knew her place. A foundling placed with the tutor of Illedrian royalty, she grew to be a talented fighter. After rising to the rank of lieutenant in the royal army, she proves her worth and thwarts the attempted assassination of the man she loves. The selfless act will change her life forever and start a chain of events that will unlock her hidden past. My Thoughts: Dragon's Heart is the first book in The Dragon Fey Saga and I have to say, I was swept away with Serena and Killian. They have plenty of obstacles in their way and will do what they can to overcome them... just so long as their own foibles and stubbornness don't get in the way. The world-building is fantastic and the characters are all nicely rounded. Like or loathe them, they are real. For me, the essence of a good book is to enjoy every word and not even realise how long you've been reading it. This was Dragon's Heart. I didn't realise I had hit the end until there were no more words. I can't wait to see where it will go next, and luckily for me, I have book two all lined up and ready to go. If you enjoy #Fantasy #Romance with court intrigue, murder, betrayal, love, and passion, then I can definitely recommend this book! A lifelong California girl, Michelle Rabe tried the Hollywood thing but decided she preferred an author’s den to the actor’s trailer. She now lives in the Phoenix, AZ with her unhelpful author cat and a very understanding roommate.
BLURB: I have only ever wanted a normal life. A life where I could have friends, go on dates, have a career, you know, the boring stuff. But, what if my life was never meant to be normal? What if I was meant to be extraordinary? My fate was put on hold the day I was born, but all of that changed when I met Brogan. He made me feel things I didn't know possible, and awoke something I didn't know existed. He set my fate back into motion. My name is Alya, and this was when my life really began. This book contains sexual situations and some strong language, so 18+ is recommended. It is the first book in the Aurelia Chronicles series. MY REVIEW: Queen of the Fireflies is the first book in the Aurelia Chronicles, and if you're expecting a new world straight away, then prepare to be disappointed. 99% of this book take place on good old Earth! Alya has just split up from her boyfriend and decides to spend the summer with her mother. Whilst she's there, she meets Brogan and they have a hot, summer fling. They both know it has an expiry date on it, but neither are prepared to stop seeing the other before they absolutely have to. This is NOT at young adult fantasy as there are some very steamy bits in it. They are an essential part of the story though and I loved every scene. It is heartbreaking, joyful, hopeful, and sad - the perfect blend of summer romance for a young couple. It does end on a cliffhanger though, so fair warning! I can't wait to continue with this series, and have no hesitation in recommending it. Rinna Ford is a Southern girl that lives in the Midwest USA. She lives with her amazingly sexy husband, two adorable daughters, a lazy dog, and a skittish cat. She loves sushi, music, and getting packages in the mail (much to her husband's dismay). Rinna Ford is the pen name the author uses to write the stories that float around in her head.
BLURB: An epic journey. If the Seventine are released, will anyone survive? Some days Abigail wonders why she gets out of bed and then she remembers; it’s her job to save seven worlds. No biggie, right? Not to mention the breaking of her melding bond with Brace seems to have destroyed more than just her heart. She’s hurting all the way to her soul. All she can do is focus on the tasks at hand, and with this in mind she sets out to find the remaining half-Walker females. The next world is Nephilius: a warrior planet. The inhabitants – Angelica – value fighting, bravery and honor above all else. Abigail planned on competing in their tournament, but in her weakened state she knows that she’s no match for them. The need for a true warrior brings Brace back into her life, and Abigail has no idea if she’s strong enough to prevent their bond reforming. Sure, he doesn’t remember her, but they are and always will be mates. Therefore Brace possesses a fundamental need to protect her. And right now her own instincts are screaming at her to ease the pain inside by throwing herself into his arms. Abigail knew it was going to be a massive sacrifice, but for the sake of everyone’s lives she needs to be strong enough to stay the distance. MY REVIEW: NEPHILIUS is the fifth book in the Walker Saga, and we finally start to see some answers. The wait has been worthwhile as I have spent time connecting with the characters. It's not all over though, oh no. We've been given a small teaser, but there is so much more to go, and only two books left to do it in. I'm happy to say that the triangle between Lucas-Abby-Brace might be sorting itself out - thank goodness. You know triangles aren't my thing, but because Lucas wasn't around all the time, it made for easy reading. Now it seems like he will have his mate after all, just not the one he thought. This was still a hard read though. Abby is lost without Brace, but is having to put on a brave face. Not only that, but she has to go to Nephilius to find the half-Walker, who turns out to be Delane. I agree with Abby's thought that it will be good to have a warrior half-Walker with them. All of them are turning out just fine, even Fury who I didn't much like in her book! Excellently written, leaving you with a cliffhanger as well as the explanation. On the back of this book, which was my last one, I just had to buy book 6. Now I just need to save my pennies for the last book. Look out for that review next month! Absolutely recommended!!! AUTHOR BIO:
Jaymin Eve is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and sci-fi novels filled with epic love stories, great adventures, and plenty of laughs. She lives in Australia with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and a couple of crazy pets. To date, she has sold close to two million ebooks, and still can't believe that she gets to create fantasy worlds as a job. For action, adventure, romance, and a guaranteed HEA, start one of her series today. BLURB: An epic journey. If the Seventine are released, will anyone survive? Three of the Seventine are free and Abigail is running out of time to gather the half-Walkers for the final battle. And on top of that Lucy reveals her latest vision: Abigail must break the melding bond with Brace; if she doesn’t, everyone will die. But is there one hope for them? New information from the Walker gathering reveals that there may be a ritual to return the Seventine to their prison. But they need four half-Walkers. And with the Regali half-Walker crowned the Queen-of-the-beasts, she might be the hardest to convince. Abigail has her best chance to save the worlds and her bond with Brace. But will she make it in time? MY REVIEW: REGALI is the fourth book in the Walker Saga, and this one ripped my heart out, tore it into shreds, and stomped all over it! Such an emotional book, or maybe it's me that is the emotional wreck. I certainly feel that way after finishing this. Ria is our fourth half-Walker, and she packs an extra oomph because she is also half nature spirit. There is a tranquility about Ria that comes across in every word, every action. Just the same as in Crais though, most of the action takes place elsewhere. This is book four, and I am still loving every piece of the puzzle that comes Abby's way. I found this to be just as well-written as the previous books, and loved how my emotions were pulled from me. These characters seem real, and I am with them for their hurts and triumphs. The pacing is smooth, and the story is gripping. With highs and ultimate lows to engage the reader all the way through. I will be unable to forget the Horror Room, or Quarn, or Brace, for a long time! Am I recommending this book? You betcha! But start from First World - trust me, it will make this adventure so much more! AUTHOR BIO:
Jaymin Eve is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and sci-fi novels filled with epic love stories, great adventures, and plenty of laughs. She lives in Australia with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and a couple of crazy pets. To date, she has sold close to two million ebooks, and still can't believe that she gets to create fantasy worlds as a job. For action, adventure, romance, and a guaranteed HEA, start one of her series today. BLURB: An epic journey. If the Seventine are released, will anyone survive? The possession of Abigail’s mate has left their melding bond in tatters. But she has no time to grieve, the deadline still looms to collect the half-Walkers. Together with her friends she ventures to Crais, the red land of the two suns. From the moment they step into the scorching heat, they’re surrounded by rock and death. And with limited time and oxygen they will have no second chances to figure out the secret to this planets survival. And then, when she thinks all hope is lost, the Seventine make her an offer she can’t resist. But will her chance to save Brace be the catalyst that destroys the worlds? MY REVIEW: CRAIS is another jewel in the crown of the Walker Saga! Although Fury is annoying as anything, she does mellow as the book progresses, and she understands more about Abby. As for Abby, she is heartbroken at the beginning of the book, and for good reason. However, with Lucy sticking to her side, Abby does what she can for everyone. There are a multitude of new characters this book that kept my attention. We have Colton and Magenta, the Wolf Twins, and Dune - who rides a Dragoona. Dune was definitely needed to soften some of Fury's (very) rough edges, but it came good in the end. It is nice to see Lucy gaining strength (although she was no weakling in the beginning), and I really want to know what happened with Samuel. I'm not sure if I want her to be with him, or Colton, so I'll just keep my options open! Another great story that continues with the world-building. Excellent characters, and I can't wait to continue with this Saga. Absolutely recommended by me. AUTHOR BIO:
Jaymin Eve is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and sci-fi novels filled with epic love stories, great adventures, and plenty of laughs. She lives in Australia with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and a couple of crazy pets. To date, she has sold close to two million ebooks, and still can't believe that she gets to create fantasy worlds as a job. For action, adventure, romance, and a guaranteed HEA, start one of her series today. BLURB An epic journey. If the Seventine are released, will anyone survive? Book two in the Walker Saga follows Abigail and her friends as they tame the world of Spurn. ‘Go to Spurn,’ she was told. Oh, and by the way the planet is ninety-five percent water and the inhabitants are hybrid fish. Of course, no one seems to care that Abigail can’t swim. Surprisingly, jetting off to a water planet is not the weirdest thing to happen this week. But she’s on a deadline to the find the first half-Walker girl, as the very essences of the seven worlds are starting to unravel. And with each Seventine release the chaos richochets further. Of course, with her Walker energy causing havoc and the savage Spurns ... well, it’s safe to say nothing so far has gone to plan. And on top of that a bombshell she did not see coming. Secrets are revealed and loyalties challenged but with her best friend and soul mate by her side, can she really lose out? MY REVIEW: SPURN is the second book in the Walker Saga, and we continue with Abby and Lucy as they try to conquer another world. Spurn is not at all what they expected, especially as Abby has 'fun' swimming. Throw in a Stalker Walker (yes, I stole that from Abby), mutant sea monsters, Lucas and Brace, and Abby has her hands full. We meet Talina in this story, and she is a gentle, introverted character. That is, unless you try to hurt her loved ones, and then she will go full on typhoon on your ass! She hasn't had it easy, but is a wonderful character that I had fun getting to know. I am LOVING this series! Seriously!!! It is full of action, quick paced, quick-witted, and full of emotions (both good and bad). I read each book, thoroughly loving each story, and yet wanting to move onto the next one, just so I can continue with the story. Fair warning - one major heartbreak in this book that I did NOT see coming, even with the warnings. There were others too, but this one knocked me out of my boots. Now I definitely need to read Crais... and hope that Ms. Eve isn't going to keep me in suspenders until the last book! Absolutely definitely positively recommended! AUTHOR BIO:
Jaymin Eve is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and sci-fi novels filled with epic love stories, great adventures, and plenty of laughs. She lives in Australia with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and a couple of crazy pets. To date, she has sold close to two million ebooks, and still can't believe that she gets to create fantasy worlds as a job. For action, adventure, romance, and a guaranteed HEA, start one of her series today. |
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