Blog Tour & New Release: Clockwork Gypsy (The Enchanter Chronicles #2) by Jeri Westerson

Book Blurb:

A diabolical plot is afoot to kill thousands by connecting England’s railway lines to a deadly curse. The beautiful and mysterious Mingli Zhao, Special Inspector to Scotland Yard, enlists the help of Leopold Kazsmer, the Great Enchanter, who uses his skills with summoning Jewish daemons to perform true magic to help solve supernatural crimes. Meanwhile, a Hungarian Romani—part man, part clockwork—will stop at nothing to kill the man he believes is responsible for his hell of an existence that is slowly grinding his mind into the nothingness of gears and pistons. It’s a race against time for Leopold to stop the fiendish plot of the railway barons, fight off a plutocratic society of goblins, struggle to gain the romantic attentions of Miss Zhao…and discover the identity of the Clockwork Gypsy before he kills again.

Goodreads | Amazon

My Review:

4.5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Faeries, Mystery, Steampunk, Supernatural, Suspense--

Picking up six months from the end of the The Daemon Device, Leopold Kazsmer is still trying to figure out what his new normal is. After his world was thrown upside down, he is off balance and uncertain where his future lies- as well as his confusing feelings for the absent investigator Mingli. When Mingli shows up out of the blue to get Leopold's help on a very complicated supernatural case, Leopold is jumps in with both feet. Hopefully he can figure out his feelings for Mingli, solve the case and stay one step ahead of the person stalking him.

The Enchanter Chronicles can best be described as a historical mystery with supernatural and steampunk elements. The mystery felt very methodical, with an almost Sherlock Holmes vibe, where every lead is followed and facts are discovered and the puzzle pieces are assembled. But then we add in the supernatural elements such as demons, magic, fae and scary goblins that want to eat people and the craziest kind of glamour. And sprinkle in a dash of steampunk with spectacles that allow other dimensions to be viewed, umbrellas that are more than meets the eye, men who are not made of flesh, inspectors who have inventions that are so intricate they are almost magic themselves.

My favorite part of the story is all characters and the dynamic between them. We have Leopold who is very naïve for a demon summoner/Romani thief/very public magician, always being prim and proper in every situation and having no idea how to act on his romantic feelings. He is the main character so we know him very well and I found him to be very real, full of doubts and uncertainty just like anyone else. But the side characters were just as detailed and interesting as Leopold, and I loved them all together. We have a demon best friend/parent-like figure, an automaton that gives tarot readings and has the most human emotions, a ghost detective who should never have been made into a ghost, and a mysterious no-nonsense female investigator who shows up out of the blue and mixes everything up in the best of ways.

This series is 100% unique and the perfect choice for anyone who likes a paranormal twists to their classic historical mystery. You will never see the surprises coming, but I strongly recommend picking up the first book and starting there!

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Catch up on The Enchanter Chronicles!

Book Blurb:

The Daemon Device (The Enchanter Chronicles #1) by Jeri Westerson

London, 1891. Prince Albert has survived his brush with death. Dirigibles, like dark leviathans, surge through the sooty air of London. Steam powers the engines that supply electricity to the new electric lights along the Thames. And Jack the Ripper appears to be on the loose again on the seamy streets.

Someone is killing women and gutting them for their body parts. Is it Jack, or a far more sinister plot afoot than murder?

Leopold Kazsmer is a magician, the Great Enchanter. Ashamed of his Jewish-Gypsy heritage, he has fashioned himself into a proper English gentleman, though he harbors a carefully guarded secret; He has learned the dangerous art of summoning daemons. When he was a child, a tattoo was bestowed upon his wrist by the denizens of the Otherworld…the same night his father was killed. Though it gives him true magical powers once he’s made a sacrifice of blood, it is also his curse, for through it the creatures of nightmares have become aware of him.

With the help of Raj, a tarot-reading automated man, and Eurynomos, a shrewd Jewish daemon who helped Leopold through his tragic childhood, Leopold must discover what is behind the revolting murders that suddenly seem to involve tight-lipped German scientists, guarded Romani, ghosts, and the beautiful Special Inspector, Mingli Zhao. Is she truly from the secret depths of Scotland Yard or is she instead a heartless spy and murderess?

In a breakneck chase through London’s streets and fighting hand-to-wand high in the skies inside a lethal airship, Leopold must destroy a secret society to defeat their plan for world domination, unmask the girl, and rescue his daemon friend from the deadly Daemon Device before all is lost.

Goodreads | Amazon | Audible

Daemons!

A Demonic History By Jeri Westerson

The rich history of demons or daemons (same pronunciation) is convoluted and complicated and ultimately up to the eye of the beholder. “Daemons”—the helpful kind as opposed to “demons”, the decidedly unhelpful kind, play an important role in my gaslamp fantasy/steampunk Enchanter Chronicles series, that follows the adventures of my Jewish/Romani magician, Leopold Kazsmer, the Great Enchanter, who finds himself mixed up in supernatural crimes he often helps Scotland Yard to solve. He learned the dangerous art of summoning Jewish daemons at his father’s knee. Though, as it turns out, his father was drawn into the Otherworld of Gehenna and sacrificed his life for his son and died there.

Or did he?

Though daemons help my fictional magician perform true magic, I have plucked my own version of daemons and demons from the rich tapestry of lore about the supernatural. The lore starts, naturally enough, in Genesis, though you have to go to the Talmud—a compendium of essays and arguments about what every part of the Old Testament means—that explains the emergence of demons and tries to argue that God could not have created such evil.

The Talmud describes that demons were created at the twilight of the sixth day and put the blame on the sin of Adam and Eve. Other traditions blame it on fallen angels or the offspring of humans and fallen angels. Still other traditions put the blame on Lilith (the real first woman rejected by Adam—he seems picky for the only guy on the planet) and uses sex with other men (where did they come from?) to produce demons. Now these demon fellows wreak havoc and plague humans with all sorts of evil, from simple temptations to complicated and unpleasant shenanigans, including possessing the body.

But the daemons I concentrate on for my fictional purposes come from the Greek idea of benevolent nature spirits. They are lesser deities or even a guiding spirit. It is the Latinized form for the Ancient Greek and Indo-European word “daimon”, meaning “god”, “godlike”, “power”, “fate” as well as “provider” and “divider” from the latter root. You can see how this sort of creature pitted against the Judeo-Christian nemesis can make for interesting drama. And an interesting take for one’s own lore.

The realm of Gehenna—the place souls go at death, the gate to the afterlife, which the Hebrew Scriptures are virtually silent about—is where my daemons and demons reside, and can only come to our plane when summoned. But it doesn’t mean that those with evil intent can’t summon them. Light, dark, good, evil all clash in the universal struggle. Hey, it’s an old trope but it still works.

Los Angeles native JERI WESTERSON is the author of historical novels and fourteen Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Mystery novels, a series nominated for thirteen national awards from the Agatha to the Shamus. Jeri also writes the Enchanter Chronicles, a historical fantasy/steampunk mystery series, the latest of which is CLOCKWORK GYPSY and releases, appropriately enough, on Halloween. Both THE DAEMON DEVICE and CLOCKWORK GYPSY ebooks are 99 cents! See her other books—medieval mysteries, historical fiction, paranormal books, and an LGBT mystery series—at JeriWesterson.com Website | Book Of The Hidden | Facebook | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Silver Fae Series by K.B. Anne

Book Blurb:

Throne of Silver

The Silver Fae Book 1

by K.B. Anne

Genre: YA Urban Fantasy

Meet Starr Bishop, the girl next door. Well, if the girl next door can deliver a dropkick to the throat and is possibly supernatural.

A secret organization wants me as an assassin. Me, kill someone? No way. The General also hints that I’m a superior being—whatever the hell that means. But it might explain the strange flickering thing that’s been happening to me lately.

And then there's Christian, the goth-loner who casts disdainful glares in my direction like it’s his day job. When I go missing, he goes all superhero and finds me. And what’s with his eyes changing shape when he doesn’t think I’m looking at him?

Now there’s this crazy-ass chemistry between us, but I must deny my feelings. Christian is a complication, and my life is complicated enough. If I give in, I could put both of our lives at risk, and I’ve already lost two friends because of the Organization.

But when Christian goes missing, I follow him into a world of deception, lies, and secret realms. No worries. I’ve got this. After all, the General wanted me as an assassin. If I can learn to tap into my true nature, I can kick the Organization’s ass.

The trouble is, the Organization will stop at nothing to pick up their top recruit. Will I figure out what superior being I am before it’s too late?

If you like Linsey Hall, CN Crawford, Chandelle LeVaun, Leia Stone, Michelle Maddow, McKenzie Hunter, and Jaymin Eve, you’ll love the highly addictive Silver Fae series.

Goodreads | Amazon

My Review:

3 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Faeries, Romance, Supernatural, Suspense, Teen--

I enjoyed the relationship between the main character and her nemesis-turned-hero. He was cute and charming, always willing to step in to help- even if it took almost a whole book to kinda sorta figure out the whys he was helping. The banter between them was entertaining and the romance was a perfect escape to the dangerous action that was the rest of the book.

I found myself struggling a little bit with the story for a few different reasons. The book starts off with regular high school stuff, with friends and classes with an overall lighthearted vibe- and then the story takes a complete 180 at like chapter 7 where it gets dark and confusing and action packed. I didn't mind the switch, but there seemed to be no real explanation and I was floundering as the reader even while the main character was completely able to roll with the new events. Things just kept happening as the action ramped up, but there was never any real transition between dangerous/stressful encounters or giant truth bombs (that I really needed explained), it almost felt like I should have known all this information to begin with. It made it super hard for me to get invested when I was not even sure what was going on. I couldn't wrap my head around the fact the main character (who believed she was a normal teen girl not trained or prepared in any way for whatever was going on) never went home to her parents (or at least called) after dodging a kidnapping, how she could just turn off her emotions when her people are murdered. It felt like nobody ever asked questions, just accepted the crazy of the story- and here I was just trying to keep everything straight and follow the plot.

Overall I feel this series has a lot of potential to develop into a very interesting supernatural action series. I think this is the perfect read for anyone who likes fast paced quick reads that feature Fae, paranormal romance, tons of action, and capable YA female characters.

KB once smashed into a tree while skiing. The accident led to a concussion, a cracked sternum, temporary notoriety as a sixth grader returned from the dead, and the realization that fictionalized accounts are way more interesting than just slipping on the ice.

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Review: The Dragon Oath (Hidden Legends, University of Sorcery #2) by Megan Linski

Book Blurb:

Soulmates are destined to be enemies.

Emma

Last semester, I failed the man I love.

The kingdom is in jeopardy, and I’m a pawn in a conspiracy that will overturn the entire country. To save the people I love, I must play the cult’s games… and wear a mask to become the city’s most dangerous assassin, the White Rose.

My life is in danger each time I stop Ethan’s plans to protect the realm, for if he succeeds in saving Malovia, his own life will be forfeit. But I must keep the identity of the White Rose a secret, even from my mate. If Ethan discovers I’ve become a vigilante for the dark side, we’ll pay for it with our lives…

Ethan

The realm has been cast in shadow. My evil cousin and his venomous mate are ravenous for the throne, and if I don’t prevent their coronation, everything the fae stand for will be lost to war forever.

But the gods seem determined to curse me, for they’ve put a cunning assassin in my path. The White Rose has thwarted every chance I’ve had to restore my honor and keep my kingdom safe.

The mystery has begun to unravel. I will discover the woman behind the mask, even if it costs me everything.

The White Rose will fall. And it will be by my blade she meets her fate…

** A Court of Thorns and Roses meets The Witcher in this fae academy series. Ignite secret worlds and battle against dark magic in this shifter addition to the Hidden Legends universe.

You can find out more about The Dragon Oath on Goodreads

4.5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Academy, Another-World, Faeries, Heart-Wrenching, Romance, Royal-Court, Supernatural--

The Dragon's Oath picks up right after The Wolven Mark ends, with Emma disgraced by cheating and Ethan further away from the throne he deserves. They are still keeping secrets from each other, secrets that may break their new tenuous bond- but they have bigger issues than their hopeful romance and that is stopping the evil that is coming for Malovia and its people.

There was so much going on in this sequel, be it battles, lots of lies, truth bombs, eating disorders/mental health issues, family drama, court politics, secret societies, evil dark gods, angsty romance, as well as great friendship. I found it super easy to get lost in this world and be sucked into the drama, rooting for this hodge podge cast of characters and the never ending problems that keep piling up.

Ok, full disclosure, I love this series and this world and will happily consume all things by this author, but Emma drove me insane in this book. She was keeping secrets but then expected honesty at all turns, she lusted after Ethan and seduced him but then acted coy, and was overall super confusing (for both Ethan and me). I just wanted to shake her and tell her to be honest and everything would work out for the best- at least that is what my hopeful soul says! I did appreciate her strength in the face of her own personal struggles with her health and her overall positive attitude.

I discovered that there is going to be 6 books in this series and I am equally ecstatic that I get so many books set in this detailed, dark and magical world, and saddened because I can only imagine how much more heartbreak Emma and Ethan are going to experience over the next 4 books- and I will be here for each coming book! This is the perfect read for anyone who loves magical academy stories, with fae and all kinds of creatures and danger.

Review: Reckless Cruel Heirs (The Lost Clan #5) by Olivia Wildenstein

Book Blurb:

Imagine falling through a portal, into a supernatural prison, with the most hateful faerie.

When my father, the King of Neverra, forced my hand into the Cauldron to cement a political alliance with the Farrows, I thought my night couldn’t get any worse. But lo and behold, it did. On top of being engaged to Remo Farrow, the rudest fae in my kingdom, I now have to repay a bargain I struck to get out of trouble.

A bargain that sends me hurtling into a world of trouble.

A world I didn’t even know existed, unwelcoming and wicked, and forever changing; a world where my powers—all of them—fail me.

The worst part is, I don’t land in supernatural jail alone. Who should follow me through the damned portal but the bane of my existence . . . my new fiancé.

Here I was, worrying how I’d save my life, but suddenly, it’s my sanity I’m more concerned about.

The Maze Runner meets The Cruel Prince with a dash of Jumanji. Welcome to the next Neverrian generation . . .

Find out more about Reckless Cruel Heirs on Goodreads

My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Another-World, Faeries, Romance, Royal-Court, Supernatural, Survival, Suspense--

In case you didn't realize, this is very much a romance- sure it is a romance that just so happens to be packed with danger and crazy scenarios where the character's lives are constantly at risk, but still a romance (think if the movies Jumanji (the new video game version) meets 10 things I hate about you had the best love baby- with supernatural Fae). This is really the best example of enemies to lovers, which is one of my all time favorite romance plots. I enjoyed the journey of watching Amara and Remo start as awful enemies, to reluctant partners, to respectful almost-friends to romantic interests (insert happy dance here).

“You’re jealous of me?” He peered down at me through his dark auburn lashes. “Who isn’t? You have everything. You’re even pretty. You could’ve at least been born with some facial warts or a weak chin.”

 I blinked at him. “You think I’m pretty?” 

His forehead crinkled as though my question were causing him physical pain. “On the outside.”

 If both my hands hadn’t been immobilized, I would’ve smacked him. “You’re such an ass.”

If I could change one thing about this book, it would be to have the book be dual narrated by Remo! He was so stoic and elusive, I would have loved to get a look inside his (very sexy) head. Yes, this is purely selfish desire, but still. I found him to be a great character, full of complicated layers and motivations, I just wanted to pick him apart (in the best of ways, I swear!) For such a "bad guy" he was dreamily chivalrous, caring and determined- Amara would never have been able to survive a Fae supernatural prison without him- nor would I have wanted her to. Side note- Amara is a great character and I loved watching her character evolve through the book, she became more competent as well as open about her own feelings.

“What good is a hero without a villain?” My eyes widened , and then I blinked. And then I laughed. “I’m your villain?” In between waves of hilarity, I said, “What a villain I make. Scared of ghosts and a complete klutz on stairs.” I wiped the corners of my eyes and elbowed him with my good arm. “No one would read that story.”

This is my current favorite book in the Lost Clan Series, and maybe my favorite book by this author. Reckless Cruel Heir was exciting, dangerous, stressful, fun, swoony, steamy, compelling and overall romantic. This stands very well as a standalone (even though it is the 5th in the series) since there are new characters with a new adventure and romance, just set in the already created world with characters that I love from the previous books. Also, this had a HEA all it's own and I ate it up! I do hope a certain blast from the past can get their own HEA next...

Review: To Carve a Fae Heart (The Fair Isle Trilogy #1) by Tessonja Odette

Book Blurb:

Every young woman dreams of marrying a king.

Everyone except for me.

Because the king I am to wed has razor sharp fangs and a thirst for blood.

All my life I knew I’d come of age during the Hundred Year Reaping. According to the ridiculous treaty, two human girls are sent to the faelands as brides for the fearsome fae king and his devilish younger brother.

Not me. I was supposed to be safe. Two girls were chosen from my village already. But when they are executed for offending the king, my sister and I are sent in their place.

What a mess. Then again, maybe it’s not so bad. The younger brother I’m paired with doesn’t seem as monstrous as I’d expected. He’s delightfully handsome too. But nothing compares to the chilling, dangerous beauty of the fae king. And when my sister flees the castle and her terrifying husband-to-be, I’m left to marry him instead.

If I go through with this, I might not survive my wedding night. If I don’t, no one is safe, neither human nor fae. An ancient war will return, bringing devastation we haven’t seen in a thousand years. Can I sacrifice myself for the good of my people? Or will a dangerous desire be the death of me first?

If I don’t lose my heart, the king will certainly lose his. I’ll carve it out with an iron blade if I have to.

To Carve a Fae Heart is an enemies-to-lovers fantasy, perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince, ACOTAR, and The Iron King. If you like snarky fae, brooding fae royals, sizzling romance, and fierce heroines, you'll love this breathtaking fae fantasy.

Find out more about the book on Goodreads

My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Another-World, Faeries, Heart-Wrenching, Mystery, Romance, Royal-Court, Supernatural--

Please excuse me while I fangirl over this completely unexpected book. I will admit that I lusted after the book when I saw the cover since I am a cover snob. Add the fact that it was about Fae and I was sold. I went into the book with an open mind and only a vague recollection of the synopsis and I instantly became obsessed. Right from the first chapter, I was immersed. The writing flowed, the characters were compelling, the world building fantastic and the plot was unique- and it didn't hurt that there was a certain broody, horned fae that stole my hear with his snark and sly smile.

He may not have changed his appearance, but he altered my perception of him, made me see desire instead of danger. I hate that he has that kind of power over me. But during the glamour? I didn’t hate it at all. I loved it. Loved staring at his lips, his eyes. Loved the pull between us, the smell of his skin, the heat of his body.

We have a completely different world where an uneasy truce lies between the humans and the Fae, a marriage between the two groups every one hundred years all that stops a war. Both sides have their stories of who is at fault, but who is right? Political intrigue, meets mystery and magic with a reluctant romance that I was blowing through the pages because I wanted, no needed, to see it bloom (hopefully!).

“You’re so lucky. The Stag King is quite yummy to look at. Plus, he has a huge…kingdom, as rumor would have it.” He waggles his brows, his grin wide enough to show his slightly pointed teeth.

Fangs. I knew it—wait. Did he just hint at innuendo? “Huge kingdom?”

I was completely thrown by the twists in the story and the ending was the most awful kind of cliffhanger where I am in need of the next book asap. There is no doubt that I will read the next book as well as all others by this author! This is the perfect read for those who love The Folk of the Air Series or The Court of Thrones and Roses.

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Alpha Erased (Alpha Girl #9) by Aileen Erin

Alpha Erased
Aileen Erin
(Alpha Girls #9)
Published by: Ink Monster LLC
Publication date: May 12th 2020
Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult

Tessa—part witch, part werewolf, raised human and now the unofficial leader of a newly minted supernatural alliance—thinks nothing of her brother, Axel, texting her and Dastien to meet up. The location pin is in a weird spot, but maybe he found a magical anomaly? But when Tessa steps into the darkened warehouse, she doesn’t expect to see her brother laying in a pool of his own blood, smell the sulfuric scent of black magic, or feel the pain of her mate being shot full of silver.

Tessa has seconds to make a choice, but there’s only one thing she can do to save the two most important men in her life—sacrifice herself.

The last thing Dastien hears from Tessa is her plea—help Axel. Then their bond goes silent. He can’t hear her. He can’t feel her. And there’s no sign of the attackers who took her.

Dastien does everything he can to save Axel before calling his friends in a panic. It takes all of them to find Tessa, but when Dastien’s finally reunited with her, there’s no sign of recognition in her eyes.

No magic in her touch.

No wolf beneath the surface.

Everything that made Tessa who she was…has been erased.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Bookbub

My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Faeries, Heart-Wrenching, Romance, Royal-Court, Supernatural, Werewolves, Witches--

Wow, what a freaking roller coaster of emotions this book took me on. Even as I sit here writing my review I feel like I am mildly in shock and waiting for more to happen even though the book is over. Keep in mind that this is the 9th book in the series which has to be read in order otherwise you will understand probably nothing about the book.

My poor poor heart! I wasn't sure I could make it through this book, every page made my heart feel like it was cracking open inch by inch. I was drowning in feelings, the angst and heartbreak so strong I didn't know how the characters (cough cough Dastien)could take anymore. The one thing that kept me turning the pages and not curled in a sad ball of tears was the fact (or rather the hope) that there would be some kind of happy ending. I need Dastien and Tessa to be together, they are one of my all time favorite werewolf romances. I can say with confidence now that the series gets more serious as it goes and tugs my emotions and I am not sure I will survive any more- and yet I know I will be begging for the next book in this wonderful series. Feel free to just rip out my heart now, it might be kinder. And I know that Tessa was the one who got kidnapped and had her life completely altered, but Dastien was the one I really felt for- who is hurt the most: the one who doesn't know what they lost, or the one who remembers and knows exactly what is gone?

“You need to change.”

I looked down at what I was wearing.

“I should?”

“You’re wearing running shorts and a T-shirt. Who do you think you’re seducing in that?” She waved her hand up and down at me as if I were wearing something severely offensive.

I opened my mouth for a second then looked down again and back at her. “I guess no one since I’m changing now.”

“Good talk.”

This was such a great installment, the huge amount of feels and romance that were wrapped in a convenient book package was surprising. With each book release, I decide that is my new favorite, and this was no exception- Alpha Erased is my new favorite. This is so worth the read- all my fangirling aside! I loved getting to see Samantha again and I really want the next book that comes out in this world to be hers!

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Author Bio:

Aileen Erin is half-Irish, half-Mexican, and 100% nerd–from Star Wars (prequels don’t count) to Star Trek (TNG FTW), she reads Quenya and some Sindarin, and has a severe fascination with the supernatural. Aileen has a BS in Radio-TV-Film from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She lives with her husband in Los Angeles, and spends her days doing her favorite things: reading books, creating worlds, and kicking ass.

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Review: The Wolven Mark (Hidden Legends, University of Sorcery #1) by Megan Linski

Book Blurb:

Finding your soulmate can be deadly…

Emma

I never believed magic was real– until I used it to kill a werewolf.

Not long after, a letter arrived from a supernatural school for fae, claiming I was a sorceress. I’m forced into a world where dragons breathe fire, griffins fly, alicorns battle and wolves hunt monsters. At this academy, sorceresses are bound to alpha shifter mates, and pagan rituals are used to connect with the gods.

I know my mate is somewhere within the school… along with those who want my blood. A cult of dark magic is following my every move, and I have to master my powers before they come for me…

Ethan

I never meant to kill my own father.

What happened led to the loss of my leg, and my reputation as heir to the throne. I found a way to pay for my sins by playing the role of Prince Ethan during the day, and a vigilante hunting cultists by night. Keeping my secret identity hidden has been far more difficult than I imagined.

But now my kingdom is at stake. A new leader will be chosen through the King’s Contest, a fatal competition where contestants battle for power and, more often than not, die in the process. Without a mate, I cannot compete for the crown.

I formed an unbreakable bond with Emma upon first sight. But I have to keep my love a secret. Emma can’t know she’s my true mate; otherwise, she’ll be in more danger than ever before.

But the King’s Contest is rapidly approaching, and if I don’t choose a mate soon, the fate of my country will fall into the wrong hands…

**

A Court of Thorns and Roses meets The Witcher in this fae academy series. Fall for alpha bad boy kings and enter a world of royal deception in this enchanting addition to the Hidden Legends universe.

Find out more about The Wolven Mark on Goodreads

My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Another-World, Faeries, Heart-Wrenching, Romance, Royal-Court, Supernatural, Suspense, Witches--

I have read a lot of books by this author by this point, this being at least my third series from her and there are two things I have found in all her books- 1)tons of heart-ripping-out-angst due to the emotional turmoil the characters face, and 2)that her endings will always leave me shocked and desperate for more. This book was no exception! Both our main characters were put through the wringer in this story (and me right along with them I was so invested) and after reading the synopsis for the next book it does not seem like things are looking up- and I am so there for this!

I am a HUGE fan of the magical academy genre (trope?) and this was a perfect example of one. I love the world building that takes place here, a whole secret country controlled by this particular magic group that spawned from the fae and can change to animal form- and can earn wings! There was a class system between creatures, wings, royalty and half breeds and it was so complicated and wonderful.

The book was dual narrated by the male and female love interests, which is just about the best way for a romance story- which this was not really (unless you call angst romance) but instead a mystery action supernatural. Anyway, we have Ethan who was groomed from birth to be the next king of his people but a terrible event cost him his father, his leg and his place in society. And then we have Emma, a girl raised in the human world, knowing nothing about this supernatural community, battling a chronic illness and having strange things thrust at her at once. The dynamic between them was captivating and the banter was so fun (the banter between all the characters was great, FYI).

Overall this was just what I wanted and I have a terrible book hangover I am not sure how to recover from. I will gladly read anything by this author my only complaint is that I need to wait for her to write more stories to feed my addiction.

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Cursed Key (The Cursed Key Trilogy #1) by Miranda Brock & Rebecca Hamilton

The Cursed Key
Miranda Brock & Rebecca Hamilton
(The Cursed Key Trilogy #1)
Published by: Evershade Publishing
Publication date: January 14th 2020
Genres: New Adult, Romance, Urban Fantasy

A forgotten past, a dark mage, and an unyielding curse.

Another team beat free-spirited archaeologist Olivia Perez to the dig of a lifetime, and now she’s left with the choice to wait for scraps or brave a dangerous, dusty tomb in hopes of finding other priceless artifacts. Her reward? A mysterious key she has no idea is cursed. Soon, Olivia realizes she’s brought home more than just an ancient rarity.

Malevolent visions begin to plague her. Unnerved by what they reveal, she casts away the key…unknowingly placing it into the waiting hands of a dark mage bent on destruction. Only when a shifter agent from the Paranormal Intelligence and Tracking Organization arrives searching for the key does Olivia realize what a huge mistake she’s made. 

Forced to team up with the ill-tempered shifter, her journey to reclaim the cursed key leads down a twisting path of dark histories, dangerous magic, and deadly obstacles. But Olivia’s efforts to take back the ancient relic before the dark mage can destroy the lives of humans, shifters, witches, and fae alike are thwarted by her own dark past…and a price steeper than what she’s willing to pay.

Fans of Tomb Raider and Ilona Andrews will love the blend of urban fantasy, magical adventure, and paranormal romance in THE CURSED KEY from Miranda Brock and New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Hamilton!

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My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Faeries, Mystery, Supernatural, Suspense, Urban Fantasy, Werewolves, Witches--

Olivia is on a archaeological mission in the Amazon when she finds herself in the possession of an old key. What she never could have guessed was that the key is being sought after by many interested parties for many different reasons. Olivia now finds herself on a dangerous quest with a moody partner for answers since her actions may have caused massive destruction.

I don't want to give anything away for this story since I love how everything unfolded so this will be a pretty short review for me. Cursed Key was such an exciting, easy to read story- I could have easily read it in a day if I hadn't been pacing myself so I could enjoy the story longer! Picking it up was thrilling for me because I knew that when I did I would be transported to somewhere else, a place full of action and danger, magic and surprise, a perfect dose of escapism to get lost in. I had been waiting for months to get my hands on this story, I pre-ordered it as soon as it was available because I had a total case of cover love and the plot sounded right up my alley with an urban fantasy feel to it. I think the best way to describe this story would Indiana Jones meeting an urban fantasy world filled with magic, shapeshfters, witches, fey, and who knows what else I have not had the chance to encounter yet! I had very, very high expectations for this book and Cursed Key fit them perfectly.

And no, this is not a standalone, but instead the first in a series, with an ending that showed the mess is just getting started for Olivia- and I have no idea how I can wait for the next book! This is the perfect read for anyone who loves the movies Indiana Jones or the Tomb Raider, and fans of action and adventure stories with a whole heaping of magic! I also hope that the next book includes a possible love match with a certain moody kitty...

Author Bio:

New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Hamilton writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance for Harlequin, Baste Lübbe, and Evershade. A book addict, registered bone marrow donor, and indian food enthusiast, she often takes to fictional worlds to see what perilous situations her characters will find themselves in next.

Represented by Rossano Trentin of TZLA, Rebecca has been published internationally, in three languages: English, German, and Hungarian.

Author links:
Website / Facebook / Twitter

--

From an early age Miranda Brock has always loved fantasy and adventure everything. Since she doesn't live in a world of enchanting powers, mythical beasts, and things unbelievable she has decided to write about them. (Although, if you happen to see a dragon flying around, do tell her.) Born in southern Illinois, where she still resides with her husband and two children, she grew up running through the woods, playing in creeks, and riding horses. What started out as writing poetry grew into short stories and eventually led to her first novel, Souls Discovered. Miranda lives in the country where she finds inspiration in the simplicity and beauty around her. With the help of a ridiculous amount of coffee and some good music she writes whenever she gets a chance.

Author links:
Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: Courting Darkness (The Magicsmith #2) by L.R. Braden

Book Blurb:

Courting Darkness

The Magicsmith Book 2

by L.R. Braden

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

“A great story of murder, mystery . . . and well-developed characters.”—Margie Hager, Netgalley Reviewer on A Drop of Magic

“A Drop of Magic is a damned fun and original read, with sass, action, hot men, and a whole lot of magic.” —Diana Pharaoh Francis, author of the Diamond City Magic, Magicfall, and Horngate Witches series

Deeper into the shadows. . .

The paranatural community isn’t done with Alex. She’s been summoned to the fae court, and she's got her hands full trying to prepare. But her date with the fae will have to wait. There’s been a death at the gallery, and the man she hoped would be a part of her future is the prime suspect.

Bitter enemies pull her into the middle of a paranatural war for territory that has her dodging police, swords, teeth, and claws—not to mention the truth. The deeper she digs, the more secrets she uncovers, and the less certain she is about the innocence of the one man she wanted to trust.

She thought she was done with murder and monsters, but she’ll have to enter the belly of the beast if she hopes to save her friend.

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My Review:

4 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Another-World, Faeries, Heart-Wrenching, Scary, Supernatural, Suspense, Urban Fantasy, Vampires, Werewolves--

Alex is finally putting the pieces back together after finding out everything she thought she knew about herself was wrong. But when her boyfriend stands her up again, she has had enough of his blow offs and erratic behavior. On top of that, she is concerned about her newly turned werewolf friend, trying to learn everything that is Fey for her upcoming forced trip to the Fey Reservation, manage her new paranormal house guests and keep her human friends in dark about her true self. Can Alex survive this next batch of challenges?

Keep in mind this is a series that needs to be read in order so make sure to grab book 1 first! Wow, did things just get extremely complicated, and just when I thought I knew this world L.R. Braden created, I was introduced to a new conflict. Between finding out more about the faeries, we are introduced to SO MANY different kinds of supernatural creatures, just randomly popping out at Alex (and me!) I felt like I needed a chart sheet to keep them all straight but I love that about the book, the ability to surprise me with the creatures and the twists and turns

One thing is for sure now after reading the second book in this series is that Alex can take a beating. I swear, both of these books spent at least half the books in physical battles and getting the ever loving crap beat out of her. I wanted to hire her a bodyguard to protect her for the inevitable beatings I knew were going to happen, but she basically has one (cough cough Kai) and still manages to get into some terrible situations. Courting Darkness was one dangerous, exciting, stressful and action-packed encounter after another and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I think I finally caught my breath when I reached the end of the book and there was a tentative resolution.

Overall I am ever so much enjoying this series! The Magicsmith is exciting and unique, with complex world building that I feel like is just getting started, yet at the same time makes me connect emotionally to Alex's struggles and personality. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves gritty urban fantasy, every kind of paranormal creatures and a headstrong, stubborn main character who refuses to back down. I can't wait to continue the series!

Catch up with book 1 in the The Magicsmith series!

Book Blurb:

The Magicsmith Book 1

by L.R. Braden

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

The war isn’t over . . . With the world clinging to a fragile peace forced on the Fae by humanity after the Faerie Wars, metalsmith Alex Blackwood is plunged into the world of the half-fae who traffick in illegal magical artifacts. Her best friend’s murder and his cryptic last message place her in the crosshairs of a scheme to reignite the decade-old war between humans and fae.

Worse, violent attacks against her and the arrival of a fae knight on a mission force Alex to face a devastating revelation of who and what she is. To catch a killer, retrieve a dangerous artifact, and stop a war, Alex will have to accept that she’s an unregistered fae “halfer” with a unique magical talent—a talent that would change everything she believes about her past, her art, and her future.

Her world is crumbling around her, and Alex will have to decide who to trust if she and the world are going to survive.

You can read my 4 Star review of A Drop Of Magic HERE

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Author Bio:

Born and raised in Colorado, L. R. BRADEN makes her home in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with her wonderful husband, precocious daughter, and psychotic cat. With degrees in both English literature and metalsmithing, she splits her time between writing and art. A Drop of Magic is her first novel.

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: A Drop of Magic (The Magicsmith #1) by L.R. Braden

Book Blurb:

The Magicsmith Book 1

by L.R. Braden

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

The war isn’t over . . . With the world clinging to a fragile peace forced on the Fae by humanity after the Faerie Wars, metalsmith Alex Blackwood is plunged into the world of the half-fae who traffick in illegal magical artifacts. Her best friend’s murder and his cryptic last message place her in the crosshairs of a scheme to reignite the decade-old war between humans and fae.

Worse, violent attacks against her and the arrival of a fae knight on a mission force Alex to face a devastating revelation of who and what she is. To catch a killer, retrieve a dangerous artifact, and stop a war, Alex will have to accept that she’s an unregistered fae “halfer” with a unique magical talent—a talent that would change everything she believes about her past, her art, and her future.

Her world is crumbling around her, and Alex will have to decide who to trust if she and the world are going to survive.

Goodreads | Amazon | Apple | B&N | Kobo

My Review:

4 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Faeries, Mystery, Royal-Court, Supernatural, Suspense, Urban Fantasy--

After the Human-Fey war ended, the world seems to be divided against how they felt about the fey and the know fey were registered and sent to live at a reservation, but tensions were high. Alex is content with her quiet life of metalworking and working at a bookstore, but when strange men show up in her work studio demanding something she knows nothing about, her world goes quickly out of her control. With new unwanted guests showing up at her house, a mysterious guy showing up, multiple attacks and the death of one of her close friends, Alex needs to determine who she really is and what she is willing to do.

Ok first off, A Drop Of Magic is listed as a paranormal romance but I totally disagree with that. This is very much an Urban Fantasy, which I am not even a little complaining about because I am happy finding new urban fantasy series to jump into. When I first read the synopsis I 100% thought urban fantasy but then every listing I see says romance I was kind of anticipating a different kind of book. A Drop of Magic had almost no romance (there was not even a love interest mentioned for at least half the book), basically a chaste kiss and potential thoughts about entering into a romance, but what it did have was tons of action, danger, mystery, bad guys and some pretty awesome Fey antics- and when the fey are involved you know it is going to get messy.

A Drop of Magic is the first in what appears to be a pretty awesome new series, so this book had some issues resolved and others are just hinted at to come. This is the first book by L.R. and I am super impressed by her world building and characterizations, her ability to take something we all know and love (cough cough the evil/lovely fey) and make her own kind of story. There were for sure elements of Patricia Briggs' Mercedes Thompson series here when it come to the Fey and having a reservation and classification system, but I feel like everything else was all it's own and I loved it. I highly recommend this series starter to anyone looking for a new urban fantasy adventure with a great new heroine. I know I will be keeping an eye out for the next book.

Author Bio:

Born and raised in Colorado, L. R. BRADEN makes her home in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with her wonderful husband, precocious daughter, and psychotic cat. With degrees in both English literature and metalsmithing, she splits her time between writing and art. A Drop of Magic is her first novel.

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You can follow the A Drop of Magic Tour HERE

Blog Tour provided by Silver Dagger Book Tours