ARC Review: THE MAGNOLIA SWORD: A BALLAD OF MULAN by Sherry Thomas

THE MAGNOLIA SWORD: A BALLAD OF MULAN 
by Sherry Thomas
Date Published: September 10, 2019; Tu Books

From Goodreads:

CHINA, 484 A.D. 

A Warrior in Disguise 

All her life, Mulan has trained for one purpose: to win the duel that every generation in her family must fight. If she prevails, she can reunite a pair of priceless heirloom swords separated decades earlier, and avenge her father, who was paralyzed in his own duel. 

Then a messenger from the Emperor arrives, demanding that all families send one soldier to fight the Rouran invaders in the north. Mulan's father cannot go. Her brother is just a child. So she ties up her hair, takes up her sword, and joins the army as a man. 

A War for a Dynasty 

Thanks to her martial arts skills, Mulan is chosen for an elite team under the command of the princeling--the royal duke's son, who is also the handsomest man she's ever seen. But the princeling has secrets of his own, which explode into Mulan's life and shake up everything she knows. As they cross the Great Wall to face the enemy beyond, Mulan and the princeling must find a way to unwind their past, unmask a traitor, and uncover the plans for the Rouran invasion . . . before it's too late.

SKY IN THE DEEP by Adrienne Young #ARC #Review #Netgalley

SKY IN THE DEEP
by Adrienne Young
Date Published: April 24, 2018; Wednesday Books

From Goodreads:

Part Wonder Woman, part Vikings—and all heart. 

Raised to be a warrior, seventeen-year-old Eelyn fights alongside her Aska clansmen in an ancient rivalry against the Riki clan. Her life is brutal but simple: fight and survive. Until the day she sees the impossible on the battlefield—her brother, fighting with the enemy—the brother she watched die five years ago. 

Faced with her brother's betrayal, she must survive the winter in the mountains with the Riki, in a village where every neighbor is an enemy, every battle scar possibly one she delivered. But when the Riki village is raided by a ruthless clan thought to be a legend, Eelyn is even more desperate to get back to her beloved family. 

She is given no choice but to trust Fiske, her brother’s friend, who sees her as a threat. They must do the impossible: unite the clans to fight together, or risk being slaughtered one by one. Driven by a love for her clan and her growing love for Fiske, Eelyn must confront her own definition of loyalty and family while daring to put her faith in the people she’s spent her life hating.

Mini Reviews: GRAVE MERCY by Robin LaFevers & SEAS OF CRIMSON SILK by Emma Hamm #Review

GRAVE MERCY (His Fair Assassin #1)
by Robin LaFevers

From Goodreads:

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf? 

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others. 

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

SOUL IN DARKNESS by Wendy Higgins #ARC #Review

SOUL IN DARKNESS 
by Wendy Higgins
Release Date: February 12, 2019

From Goodreads:

People travel from afar to the small isle in the Aegean Sea hoping for a single glimpse of Princess Psyche. Their adoration for the mortal woman is so all-consuming that citizens begin to shower her with the very gifts and offerings they once left at the alter of Venus, goddess of love and beauty.

But gods are known for their jealousy.

Cupid, the god of love, takes pleasure in causing strife and mischief in the lives of humans. He uses love as a weapon, humoring in the weakness of people at the whims of their feelings. When his mother Venus approaches him about punishing the human girl who dares to steal her offerings and affections from the people, Cupid gladly accepts.

Psyche's punishment is to be given to a mysterious creature who only comes to her in the dark of night under the pact that she will never lay eyes on him. She is terrified of this stranger, who the oracle described as a serpent. Her mate, however, is masterful in his dealings with his bride. He takes his time, morphing her fears into different sensations completely.

AMARYLLIS by Joyce Proell #Review

AMARYLLIS 
by Joyce Proell
Release Date: January 23, 2019; The Wild Rose Press, Inc.

From Goodreads: 

When it’s spy vs. spy, love vs. loyalty, someone is going to get hurt. 

Lily Fitzhugh is desperate to get to America when her father is imprisoned as a traitor against the Crown. To gain passage, she accepts a dangerous job: To sneak aboard a ship headed to New York and spy on suspected colonial patriot Griffin Faraday. 

Griffin Faraday doesn’t have time for a beautiful, tempting stowaway—especially one he can’t trust. He has a secret shipment of guns to deliver to General Washington and the Continental Army. Nothing can get in the way. But when the ship’s captain orders Lily sent away with pirates, a sure death sentence, Griffin must propose something else entirely: Marriage, the absolute last thing he wants. 

QUEEN OF ZAZZAU by J.S. Emuakpor #BlogTour #Giveaway

QUEEN OF ZAZZAU

by J.S. Emuakpor

Date Published: 11.20.2018

Publisher: Afrocentric Books | Mugwump Press

Historical Fantasy/Mythical Realism

About the book:

Amina is heir apparent to the throne of Zazzau and must prove she is worthy of the crown. As foreign invaders close in on them, she is all that stands between her people and destruction. Caught in a web of prophecies, she must defend Zazzau, but cannot do so if she wants to prevent the future that was foretold. She did not seek war yet it finds her. Unwilling to be the plaything of gods or men and determined to take control of her own destiny, she tracks down the god of war himself. But has her destiny already been written? Can she choose her own fate? And can she protect her kingdom, no matter what price she must ultimately pay? Because, gods always want something in return.

Queen of Zazzau is an Historical Fantasy that takes place in precolonial West Africa.  It chronicles the life of one of the most famous W. African queens, Amina of Zazzau (or Zaria). At 139,000 words, the novel features several W. African historical figures and a pantheon of W. African gods. The story is told in first-person and gives the reader an intimate look at some of the lifestyles and cultures--many of which are still alive today--of medieval W. Africa.

Add it on Goodreads

PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

J.S. Emuakpor was born and raised in West Africa. She is a married mother of four, a scientist, and owner of Afrocentric Books. She currently lives in North Carolina and is very much allergic to it. Most of her writing draws upon the spiritual beliefs of the ancestors who frequently whisper in her ear and on the superstitions that she refuses to relinquish. 

Author Links:  Website    Facebook     Twitter     Goodreads

GIVEAWAY:

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Blog tour organized by:
RABT Book Tours

A DUKE CHANGES EVERYTHING (The Duke’s Den #1) by Christy Carlyle First Look Celebration & Giveaway

Perfect for fans of Lorraine Heath and Tessa Dare. The first book in the new Victorian romance series The Duke’s Den, A DUKE CHANGES EVERYTHING, by Christy Carlyle has the romance and brooding hero that readers will fall in love with.

A DUKE CHANGES EVERYTHING (The Duke’s Den #1) 
by Christy Carlyle
Genre: Victorian Romance
Release Date: November 27, 2018; 384 Pages
Format: Digital/Paperback

About the book:
In the first novel in Christy Carlyle’s sizzling Duke’s Den series, three men, intent on making a fortune, discover irresistible opportunities . . . 

Nicholas Lyon gambled his way into a fortune and ownership of the most opulent, notorious gentlemen’s club in England. But when Nick’s cruel brother dies, he inherits a title he never wanted. The sooner Nick is rid of the estate that has always haunted him, the sooner he can return to the life he’s built in London. But there’s one obstacle—the exquisite Thomasina Thorne.

When the new heir to the Tremayne dukedom suddenly appears in Mina Thorne’s life, she’s flustered. Not only is he breathtakingly handsome, but he’s also determined to take away her home and position as steward of the Enderley estate. If Mina learns what makes the enigmatic duke tick, perhaps she can change his mind—as long as she doesn’t get too close to him.

With each day Nick spends with Mina, his resolve weakens as their colliding wills lead to explosive desire. Could she be the one woman who can help him finally bury the ghosts of his past?

Add it on Goodreads

PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon 

Barnes & Noble

iBooks 

Kobo

Google Play

Praise for the A Duke Changes Everything:

“I absolutely adore Christy Carlyle! A DUKE CHANGES EVERYTHING had everything: a scarred and brooding hero, a feisty and determined heroine, sexual tension, and strong conflict delivered with lyrical prose that kept me reading late into the night. Christy Carlyle has moved to the top of my must-read list.” - Lorraine Heath, New York Times bestselling author

"Christy Carlyle writes poignant, genuine characters who will melt your heart and keep you turning pages long past your bedtime. A DUKE CHANGES EVERYTHING is a beautifully written tale I couldn't put down." -Author Kelly Bowen

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Fueled by Pacific Northwest coffee and inspired by multiple viewings of every British costume drama she can get her hands on, USA Today bestselling author Christy Carlyle writes sensual historical romance set in the Victorian era. She loves heroes who struggle against all odds and heroines who are ahead of their time. A former teacher with a degree in history, she finds there's nothing better than being able to combine her love of the past with a die-hard belief in happy endings.

You can also visit her online at the following places:
Website     Facebook      Twitter     Pinterest     Tumblr      Amazon

GIVEAWAY:
Follow the First Look and #enter to #win one of ten (10) ebooks from Christy Carlyle’s backlist

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First look celebration organized by:
Barclay Publicity

Book Blitz & Excerpt: THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL by Hester Fox

THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL

by Hester Fox
Release Date: October 2nd 2018
Graydon House Books (Harlequin)
Adult Historical Fantasy Fiction (YA Friendly)

About the book:
Two centuries after the Salem witch trials, there’s still one witch left in Massachusetts. But she doesn’t even know it.

Take this as a warning: if you are not able or willing to control yourself, it will not only be you who suffers the consequences, but those around you, as well.

New Oldbury, 1821
In the wake of a scandal, the Montrose family and their three daughters—Catherine, Lydia and Emeline—flee Boston for their new country home, Willow Hall.

The estate seems sleepy and idyllic. But a subtle menace creeps into the atmosphere, remnants of a dark history that call to Lydia, and to the youngest, Emeline.

All three daughters will be irrevocably changed by what follows, but none more than Lydia, who must draw on a power she never knew she possessed if she wants to protect those she loves. For Willow Hall’s secrets will rise, in the end...

Add it on Goodreads

Purchase Links:

Amazon

Book Depository

B&N

BAM!

Indie Bound

Advance Praise: 

"Hester Fox's THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL offers a fascinating location, a great plot with history and twists, and characters that live and breathe. I love the novel, and will be looking forward to all new works by this talented author!" -- Heather Graham, New York Times bestselling author 

"Beautifully written, skillfully plotted, and filled with quiet terror, readers will devour this absorbing, Gothic tale of romance and suspense. Perfect for fans of Simone St James and Kate Morton." -- Anna Lee Huber, the national bestselling author of the historical Lady Darby Mysteries 

"Beautifully written, with an intriguing plot full of suspense and mystery, The Witch of Willow Hall will cast a spell over every reader." -- Lisa Hall, author of Tell Me No Lies and Between You and Me

"I was entranced by this intriguing and spellbinding novel with its messages of love and loyalty and being true to who you really are. I hope Hester Fox goes on to write many more such novels--I for one will be buying them." -- Kathleen McGurl, author of The Girl from Ballymor 

"With its sense of creeping menace and chilling undertones, this compelling story had me gripped from the first page. The vividly drawn characters cast their spell so convincingly, I couldn't stop reading until I discovered what happened to them. A wonderful debut novel.”-- Linda Finlay, author of The Flower Seller

BOOK EXCERPT:

“It’s too hot for coffee,” Emeline announces suddenly, even though she’s not allowed to have a sip of the beverage. “It’s too hot for dresses and shoes and hair and fingernails. It’s too hot for stockings and feathers and fur.” 

Mr. Barrett and Father break off their conversation, and si¬lence falls over the parlor. Mother shoots our guests an apolo¬getic look and then a pleading one at Emeline. “I’m so sorry. It’s past her bedtime and she’s getting tired.” 

But Emeline isn’t done. She’s goes over to Mr. Barrett and looks up at him. “It’s too hot,” she repeats. “And I’m not tired at all. There’s a pond behind the house, did you know? I want to go to the pond and see the mermaids.” 

I should take her upstairs to bed, but I don’t move. Mr. Barrett is looking down at her with a queer expression, a crease between his brows. She takes his hand in hers. His aren’t tapered and elegant like Cyrus’s; Mr. Barrett’s hands are capable, strong, and Emeline’s hand completely disappears in his. “Please, let’s go to the pond where it’s cool and we can swim with the mermaids. I want to go play with the little boy at the pond.” 

“What little boy? What on earth are you talking about, Emmy?” But Emeline ignores Mother’s question and her lip begins to tremble when it becomes clear that she isn’t going to get her way. By this time even Catherine and Mr. Pierce have paused in their giggles and whispers and both are staring. Crimson spreads over Catherine’s face. 

“Really, Emeline. Leave poor Mr. Barrett alone.” Mother gets up slowly, and I can tell she doesn’t have the energy for this. 

“It’s dark out, Emmy. And Mr. Pierce and Mr. Barrett have business to discuss with your father.” She reaches out to take her hand, but Emeline dives out of her grasp. I’m mortified. I understand Emeline, but Mr. Barrett will never return to our house if she behaves like this. I try to catch her attention, but she misses the cautioning look. 

“I don’t want to go to bed!” I’ve never seen Emeline in such a pout before. She must be tired beyond reason, and the heat certainly isn’t helping. Hands clenched at her sides, she looks as if she’s on the verge of bursting into tears. 

But instead she just stomps her little foot. But just as her foot comes down on the carpet, both doors slam shut with a great bang. Mother jumps, Catherine lets out a little cry and Father’s eyebrows look as if they are about to fly off his face. The room goes silent, the only movement the residual wobbling of a vase on the table. 

We all look at each other. Even Emeline looks surprised, because if we didn’t know better, it was almost as if she caused the doors to fly shut with her foot. Father is the first to speak. He clears his throat and glances around. 

“Must be the wind,” he mumbles. “You think you have a house built new and it wouldn’t be full of drafts and loose doors, but I suppose there’s no such thing as peace of mind in New England construction.” 

Mother is quick to agree with him, and Mr. Pierce gives a dubious nod. But we all know that there was no breeze, that it’s been so still that a feather would have hardly quivered, let alone two doors slamming. No one wants to say so though at the risk of frightening Emeline.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Website   Facebook    Goodreads   Twitter

Hester comes to writing from a background in museum work and historical archaeology. She loves the Gothic, the lurid, the dark... so long as the ending is a happy one. She has never seen a ghost, though she remains hopeful. 
Hester lives outside of Boston with her husband. THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL is her first novel.

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