Review: Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen

Today I'm excited to be bringing you Sarah Addison Allen's long awaited fantastical new novel, Other Birds. Sarah put a lot of blood sweat and tears into this incredible piece of fiction so don't miss the author's note at the end for a poignant message to her readers. This read was definitely one of a kind and I won't be forgetting any of these characters any time soon. Find out why I thought this.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 9781250019868
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Release Date: 8-30-2022
Length: 304 pp
Source: Publisher/Netgalley for review
Buy It: Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

From the acclaimed author of Garden Spells comes an enchanting tale of lost souls, lonely strangers, secrets that shape us, and how the right flock can guide you home.

Down a narrow alley in the small coastal town of Mallow Island, South Carolina, lies a stunning cobblestone building comprised of five apartments. It’s called The Dellawisp and it is named after the tiny turquoise birds who, alongside its human tenants, inhabit an air of magical secrecy.

When Zoey Hennessey comes to claim her deceased mother’s apartment at The Dellawisp, she meets her quirky, enigmatic neighbors including a girl on the run, a grieving chef whose comfort food does not comfort him, two estranged middle-aged sisters, and three ghosts. Each with their own story. Each with their own longings. Each whose ending isn’t yet written.

When one of her new neighbors dies under odd circumstances the night Zoey arrives, she is thrust into the mystery of The Dellawisp, which involves missing pages from a legendary writer whose work might be hidden there. She soon discovers that many unfinished stories permeate the place, and the people around her are in as much need of healing from wrongs of the past as she is. To find their way they have to learn how to trust each other, confront their deepest fears, and let go of what haunts them.

Delightful and atmospheric, Other Birds is filled with magical realism and moments of pure love that won’t let you go. Sarah Addison Allen shows us that between the real and the imaginary, there are stories that take flight in the most extraordinary ways.

Review: A Bridge to Nowhereland by Donna Augustine

Today I'm reviewing Donna Augustine's latest and a debut for a brand new Urban Fantasy series, A Bridge To Nowhereland. Those of you who are often visitors you know how much I adore Donna's writing and she hits another homer with this one.
Enjoy!

ASIN: B0B6D88DYF
Publisher: Strong Hold Publishing
Release Date: 07-17-2022
Length: 267 pp
Source: Author for review
Buy It: Amazon

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

I worked hard, everything I planned almost within my grasp,and then one flicker in time, mere seconds, and it’s all gone. Now I’m starting at zero, stuck in a place called the outpost, which is neither here nor there but some limbo land for those who haven’t transitioned.

I’m sleeping in a broom closet, choking on fumes, while everyone declares me useless. Kaden, the guy that runs this place, keeps telling me there’s nothing I can do to go back. That once the change is set in motion, it’s impossible to reverse.

Every day, each step, takes me farther away from where I want to be and closer to Kaden and a mysterious land of darkness. The only way out of this mess is forward, away from the life I built, and the people I love…

Sophia Rose Reviews: The Secret Witness by Victor Methos

Today Sophia Rose is here reviewing the brilliance audio version of the crime mystery, The Secret Witness by Victor Methos, narrator Timothy Andres Pabon.
Enjoy!

The Secret Witness by Victor Methos, narrator Timothy Andres Pabon

#1 Shepard and Gray

Mystery, Crime Novel

Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Published: 7.1.22

Time:  8 hours 5 minutes

Rating: 4.5 stars

Format: MP3

Source: Brilliance Audio

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

GoodReads Blurb:

From the bestselling author of A Killer’s Wife comes the thrilling first installment in the Shepard & Gray series, featuring a young sheriff who teams up with a former prosecutor to stop a copycat killer.

This is Reaper speaking.

So begins an anonymous letter published in a Utah newspaper after a young couple is viciously murdered. Tooele County sheriff Elizabeth Gray leads the investigation into the double homicide, which is eerily reminiscent of a string of brutal killings years ago. When the letter leads detectives to yet another body, Gray calls on an old friend for help.

Former prosecutor Solomon Shepard is still struggling to recover from the deadly courtroom attack that ended his career. He’s been keeping a safe distance from the action, teaching criminology seminars about serial murders and psychopathology—until Gray asks for his help on the Reaper case.

As the body count mounts, Shepard and Gray race to unravel the deranged design of a copycat killer—and find themselves in a face-off with an enemy they never saw coming.

 

Showcase - August HQN series romance

Ah today is my favorite post day, the day I showcase the Harlequin August series romance recommendations. I know there will be something for everyone.
Enjoy!

#GIVEAWAY-Showcase- Excerpt: Big Swamp by Kelly Dean Jolley Blog Tour

Today is my stop on the Big Swamp by Kelly Dean Jolley blog tour. Don't forget to stop by all the other blogs on the tour and there's a fab #Giveaway at the end.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 978-1681310688

ASIN: B0B8FR8X1G

Publisher: Meryton Press

Release Date: 8-11-2022 Preorder and Paperback: 8-2-2022

Buy: Amazon (Universal Link)

ADD TO: Goodreads

Overview:

A Private Eye in a One-Eyed Place?

Ford Merrick is a softhearted detective in a sleepy southern town, Opelika, Alabama—a “one-eyed, blinking sort of place.” A provoking visit from beautiful Rachel Gunner complicates his work and his life. This stunning woman asks Ford to tail her uncle and discover what he is up to. Taking the case, Ford quickly finds himself swamped in mysteries: Who is Rachel's uncle, and what is his secret business? Then there’s the mystery of an earlier death at Noble Hall where Rachel and her uncle now live. But the greatest mystery may be Rachel Gunner herself. Mired, Ford struggles to find his way, unearths tragedies old and new, and exposes his heart to a hard test.

#MacmillanAudio Review of Holy Chow by David Rosenfelt

Today I'm reviewing the Macmillan Audio version of David Rosenfelt's latest in his Andy Carpenter series, Holy Chow. I love everything about this series from the comedy, the mystery and of course the pups! See why I thought this one was so good.
Enjoy!

ASIN: B09GH1J5XB
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Release Date: 07-05-2022
Length: 6 hours-27 minutes
Source: Publisher for review
Buy It: Audible/Chirpbooks

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

"Gardner's familiarity with Andy and the team is clear as he characterizes the larger-than-life characters with aplomb. His spot-on timing allows Andy's wisecracks to shine, while his subtle changes in inflection help signal passages not told from Andy's point of view. The result is a thoroughly enjoyable listen."- AudioFile Magazine

This program is read by longtime series and award-winning narrator, Grover Gardner.

In Holy Chow, the next mystery from bestselling author David Rosenfelt, the beloved characters—both human and canine—of this fan favorite series are back on the case with the author’s trademark wit and humor.

Retired lawyer Andy Carpenter’s calling has always been running the Tara Foundation. The dog rescue organization places hundreds of dogs in new homes every year. It’s added up to so many dogs and new owners that Andy can’t even do the math. But there’s one dog—and one owner—Andy will always remember.

About a year ago, Rachel Morehouse came to the foundation looking for a companion. In her sixties and recently widowed, Rachel wanted a senior dog that also needed someone. Andy took a liking to her, Rachel took a liking to Lion, an older Chow Chow, and the rest is history.

That is, until Rachel calls Andy begging for a favor: If Rachel dies, will Andy take care of Lion if her stepson cannot? Andy agrees, no questions asked, and promptly forgets about it... until he receives a call from Rachel’s estate to attend her will reading. Which is where he meets Rachel’s stepson, Tony, who is promptly arrested for his stepmother’s murder. And he wants Andy to prove his innocence.

Andy has continued to learn more about the woman he so greatly admired and the businesses she ran, and holy chow, was this woman impressive. The person who killed her deserves to be held accountable, and if Tony is to be believed, they’re still out there. And that possibility is too much for Andy to remain on the sidelines.

A Macmillan Audio production from Minotaur Books.

Sophia Rose Reviews - Hostile Mission by Kendall Talbot

Today Sophia Rose returns to review a romantic suspense novel, Hostile Mission by Kendall Talbot.
Enjoy!

Hostile Mission by Kendall Talbot

#2 Alpha Tactical Ops

Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Kendall Talbot

Published: 7.29.22
ASIN:  B09X6QH9YB

Pages:  362

Rating: 5 stars

Format: eARC

Source: Author

Sellers:  Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

GoodReads Blurb:

She’s trying to save the world. He’s pissed off with it.
When their worlds collide, their only hope is each other.

In the brutal landscape of Antarctica, reclusive scientist, Billie Everson, lives every day in a danger zone. But when she finds something that’s been missing since World War II, enemies circle like vultures, pitching her and everyone else in the remote research station into the crosshairs of the world’s most merciless killers.

Ex-army hero, Levi (Codename: Wasp) has flown choppers in the most hellish places, but when he and his team are sent to find out why Station Eleven has gone dark, heading into the most hostile place on earth makes the nightmares he’s been through seem like child’s play. Levi hasn’t believed in a cause since a failed mission cost him everything, but saving the brilliant scientist from the icy clutches of ruthless murderers has finally given him something to fight for.

With the darkness of winter only days away, will Levi save Billie? Or will hell freeze over them forever?

 

Showcase - Sentimental Economy by by EDOARDO NESI Translated by ANTONY SHUGAAR

Today I'm showcasing Sentimental Economy by Edoardo Nesi a multi award winning author and filmmaker translated from his native Italian into English and yet another fantastic new release from favorite indie of eclectic imports, Other Press.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 978-1-63542-214-6
Publisher: Other Press
Release Date: 08-09-2022
Length: 224pp
Buy It: Publisher/ Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview

In a warm, perceptive essay that touches on economics, fashion, literature, and politics, the Strega Prize–winning author of Story of My People reflects on the seismic shifts of 2020 and the diverse ways we’re adapting.

Attempting to make sense of the incredible upheaval of 2020—from the devastating impact of COVID-19 to the sudden loss of his father—Edoardo Nesi considers the changing global economy and its effect on our lives. He shares the stories of Alberto Magelli, a small textile entrepreneur; Livia Firth, a prominent advocate for sustainability; Elisa Martelli, a young Sangiovese winemaker; Enrico Giovannini, a leading economist and statistician; Rino Pratesi, a proud butcher from the heart of Tuscany; and more.

From the overworked to the unemployed, we’re all grappling with difficult questions about our current disorienting world: Will we ever feel healthy again, and what will it take to regain “normality?” What does progress mean today? Have science and technology let us down? What will the increased prevalence of remote working mean for our cities, and for our lifestyles generally? Deftly weaving together the personal and the economic, Nesi takes us on a fascinating journey to understanding.

Sophia Rose Reviews - Gale Force by Cara Bristol #2 Cyborg Force

Today Sophia Rose is back with a review in one of her favorite genres, sci-fi romance.
Enjoy!

Gale Force by Cara Bristol

#2 Cyborg Force

Sci-Fi Romance

Publisher: Cara Bristol

Published:  7.18.22

Pages:  188

Rating: 4 stars

Flames: 3

Format: eARC

Source: Author

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

GoodReads Blurb:

They had loved so passionately, and then their marriage ended. Will a dangerous assignment give them a second chance or bring a permanent end to their love and lives?

Gayle Chambers always dreamed of studying alien life. But now that she’s on a sand-blasted desert planet, the dream seems more like a nightmare. Dangerous, corrupt officials would just as soon see her dead as allow her research come to light. If that’s not bad enough, her bodyguard turns out to be her ex-husband who broke her heart and trust when he chose Cyborg Force over her. She’s never forgotten or forgiven the rejection. Now she’s stuck with him while she investigates the secrets of an alien intelligence. Will she be able to complete her mission or will her life and heart come under siege?

As a young man, Axel Vander had wanted to become a cyborg and save the world. Then he met and married the love of his life, the brilliant, ambitious Dr. Gayle Chambers. He never fathomed joining C-Force would destroy their marriage. He’d only wanted to become a husband she could proud of. Instead she’d walked out, divorcing him and shattering his heart. He’s never gotten over the betrayal, but he’ll perform his duty and keep her safe. But how will he protect his wounded heart?

Braving fierce dust storms and deadly government machinations, they’ll race against the clock to save an alien intelligence. But can Axel and Gayle regain the love they once had before time runs out?

 

New in August from Oceanview Publishing

Today I'm featuring all the fabulous offerings from my favorite indie mystery publisher, Oceanview Publishing.
Enjoy!

Sophia Rose Reviews The Cherokee Trail by Louis L'Amour

Today Sophia Rose is on the blog reviewing an audio by one of her favorite western fiction authors, The Cherokee Trail by Louis L'Amour
Enjoy!

The Cherokee Trail by Louis L’Amour, narrator Carrington MacDuffie

Western Fiction

Publisher: Random House Audio

Published: 6.28.22

Time:  6 hours 13 minutes

Rating: 4 stars

Narrator: 5 stars

Speed: 1.25x

Format: audio

Source: Penguin Random House Audio

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

GoodReads Blurb:

A woman ahead of her time, Mary Breydon knew how to get things done. Raised on a Virginia plantation, she learned how to care for livestock, respect her workers, and keep good books. But after her husband is killed, Mary must provide for her young daughter by running a stage coach station on the Cherokee Trail. With the help of an Irish maid and a mysterious stranger, Mary faces challenges that even the men eagerly anticipating her failure would have a difficult time overcoming. After firing the previous station manager with the aid of a bullwhip, she must track down stolen horses, care for a wayward boy, and defend against Indians. If that wasn't enough, she also has to protect herself from the man who murdered her husband--and is coming for Mary next.

Sophia Rose Reviews Solar System Reference for Teens by Dr. Bruce Betts

Today Sophia Rose is back reviewing a nonfiction guide to our solar system for ages 12 to 16.
Enjoy!

Solar System Reference for Teens by Bruce Betts, PhD

Non-Fiction, Young Adult

Publisher:  Rockridge Press

Published:  6/7/22

Page: 227

Rating: 5 stars

Format: eARC

Source:  Callisto Publishing Group

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

 

Amazon Blurb:

Take a tour of our solar system with this guide for teens ages 12 to 16

From the moons of Jupiter to the surface of Mars, our solar system is home to a multitude of wild, weird worlds. Crack open this solar system book and embark on a journey through space as you meet key figures in history, explore careers in astronomy, uncover some of the solar system’s biggest mysteries, and more.

• Tons of images—Bring celestial objects into focus through more than 160 images, illustrations, and diagrams that provide a close-up look into our solar system and how it works.
• Fascinating facts—Did you know the Moon gets farther from Earth each year at about the same rate that your fingernails grow? Discover all sorts of awe-inspiring facts about our solar system’s planets, moons, and more.
• Exciting exploration—Learn about important historical achievements and technological developments—including missions to different parts of the solar system—and get tips for your own stargazing sessions.

Explore all the cool stuff in our solar system with this accessible reference guide for teens.

#MacmillanAudio review of Stay Awake by Megan Goldin

Megan Goldin has become a go-to thriller author for me and this psychological thriller has a good chance of being #1 on my best of list. Read on and see why I loved this so much.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 9781250854773
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Release Date: 08-09-2022
Length: 10 hours-59 minutes
Source: Publisher for review
Buy It: Audible/Chirpbooks

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview

A murder she doesn’t remember committing. A killer she doesn’t remember meeting. Megan Goldin’s Stay Awake is an electrifying novel that proves memory can be deadly.

Liv Reese wakes up in the back of a taxi with no idea where she is or how she got there. When she’s dropped off at the door of her brownstone, a stranger answers―a stranger who claims to live in her apartment. She reaches for her phone to call for help, only to discover it’s missing. In its place is a bloodstained knife. Her hands are covered in scribbled messages, like graffiti on her skin: STAY AWAKE.

Two years ago, Liv was thriving as a successful writer for a trendy magazine. Now, she’s lost and disoriented in a New York City that looks nothing like what she remembers. Catching a glimpse of the local news, she’s horrified to see reports of a crime scene where the victim’s blood has been used to scrawl a message across a window, similar to the message that’s inked on her hands. What did she do last night? And why does she remember nothing from the past two years? Liv finds herself on the run for a crime she doesn’t remember committing. But there’s someone who does know exactly what she did, and they’ll do anything to make her forget―permanently.

A complex thriller that unfolds at a breakneck speed, Stay Awake will keep you up all night.

#GIVEAWAY Cover Reveal - Grimm Consequences by Kate SeRine Transplanted Tales 1.5

Today it's my pleasure to be a part of Kate Serine's Grimm Consequences cover reveal, read all about it then enter to win the #Giveaway to celebrate 10 years of Kate's Transplanted Tales series. 
Enjoy!

Showcase: Bend Toward The Sun by Jen Devon

Today I'm excited to bring you a St. Martin's Griffin brand new release and a debut by author Jen Devon, Bend Toward The Sun. I know once you read more about this novel you'll want a copy for yourself.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 9781250822000
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: 08-09-2022
Length: 384pp
Buy It: Amazon/ B&N/ IndieBound

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

Jen Devon's Bend Toward the Sun is a gorgeous, emotional love story about taking unexpected paths, accepting loss, and finding strength in the transformative power of love.


Two imperfect people. One year under the sun. A love story you won't ever forget.

Rowan McKinnon doesn’t believe in love. With a botany PhD, two best friends who embrace her social quirkiness, and some occasional no-strings sex, she has everything she needs. But she hides deep wounds from the past—from an emotionally negligent mother, and a fiancé who treated her like a pawn in a game. When an academic setback leads Rowan to take on the restoration of a winery's abandoned vineyard, she relishes the opportunity to restore the grapes to their former glory.

She does not expect to meet a man like Harrison Brady.

An obstetrician profoundly struggling after losing a patient, Harry no longer believes he is capable of keeping people safe. Reeling, Harry leaves Los Angeles to emotionally recover at his parents’ new vineyard in Pennsylvania.

He does not expect to meet a woman like Rowan McKinnon.

As their combative banter gives way to a simmering tension, sunlight begins to crack through the darkness smothering Harry’s soul. He’s compelled to explore the undeniable pull between them. And after a lifetime of protecting herself from feeling anything, for anyone, Rowan tries to keep things casual.

But even she can’t ignore their explosive connection.

#GIVEAWAY Showcase: Depths of Deceit by Laura Oles a Partners in Crime virtual tour

Today is my stop on the Depths of Deceit by Laura Oles blog tour, book 2 in her Jami Rush mysteries. Be sure and visit all the stops and don't forget to enter the #Giveaway at the end of the post sponsored by Partners In Crime tours.
Enjoy!

Depths of Deceit

by Laura Oles

July 25 - August 19, 2022 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

Two sisters.

One deadly secret.

No time to lose.

PI Jamie Rush has her hands full with small-time skip-tracing and surveillance jobs in Port Alene, Texas. The work is steady, though she still struggles to make ends meet. But when her partner, Cookie, brings in a low-paying and potentially time-consuming case, Jamie takes it on out of loyalty.

Cookie’s childhood friend, Renata, needs to find her younger sister, Leah. As Jamie digs into Leah’s past, it becomes clear that the missing woman’s life was shrouded in secrets, the kind that could jeopardize those involved in the case.

To complicate matters, PI Alastair Finn has returned, and he’s willing to reclaim his town by any means necessary. Jamie has never been one to retreat, and Alastair enjoys a good fight. Sparks will fly.

A missing woman. Felonies. Finn’s return. Every twist reminds Jamie that she’s still an outsider in this town. Jamie must prove herself all over again, and the stakes have never been higher.

Book Details:

Genre: Mystery, Female PI
Published by: Red Adept Publishing
Publication Date: May 31, 2022
Number of Pages: 292
Series: A Jamie Rush Mystery, #2
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Review: The Witch's Knight by Paula and Trevor Brackston White Shadow Trilogy #1

Today I'm reviewing, The Witch's Knight,  book 1 in the White Shadow trilogy a terrific collaboration by a favorite author, Paula Brackston and her brother Trevor. Stop in and see why many including me are raving about this new series.
Enjoy!

ISBN-13: 979-8433888029
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: 4-19-2022
Length: 523pp
Source: Author for review
Buy It: Amazon

ADD TO: GOODREADS

Overview:

New York Times bestselling author of 'The Witch's Daughter', Paula Brackston, in collaboration with her brother Trevor, presents an epic tale of magic, courage and a love that spans a thousand years.

A girl destined to become Queen Witch.
A knight sworn to protect her throughout time.
A supernatural battle between good and evil.

"This book was a slam dunk for me. The magic the authors weaved on the page had me so enthralled, I couldn't put it down." - bookaloriandesigns

In Book One of the White Shadow Trilogy, the story moves between 11th century Wales and present day London. Gwen is born to a noble family in the Welsh mountains, unaware of her true magical identity. When her village is attacked by Norman soldiers her life is forever changed and she must accept her new role to save those she loves. It is as she embraces her place among the witches of the White Shadow that she meets the man who will risk everything to protect her.
In dangerous modern times, Tudor's life is threatened when his own destiny unfolds. It is only as the world shifts towards darkness that the true extent of his purpose, and his connection to the past, is revealed.
In a love story that survives the centuries, the two must put duty first. The Shifting would see evil take hold, and all that is good will be lost. The witch and her knight stand on the tipping point of that balance.

Sophia Rose Reviews: Remember Love by Mary Balogh

Today Sophia Rose is reviewing Remember Love by Mary Balogh a historical romance and #1 in her Ravenswood series.
Enjoy!

Remember Love by Mary Balogh

#1 Ravenswood

Historical Romance

Publisher:  Berkley

Published:  7.12.22

Pages:  367

Rating: 4.5 stars

Flames: 2.5

Format: eARC

Source: NetGalley

Sellers: Amazon

ADD TO: GoodReads

GoodReads Blurb:

The handsome and charismatic Earl of Stratton, Caleb Ware, has been exposed to the ton for his clandestine affairs—by his own son.

As a child, Devlin Ware thought his family stood for all that was right and good in the world. They were kind, gracious, and shared the beauty of Ravenwood, their grand country estate, by hosting lavish parties for the entire countryside. But at twenty-two, he discovered his whole world was an elaborate illusion, and when Devlin publicly called his family to account for it, he was exiled as a traitor.

So be it. He enlisted in the fight against Napoleon and didn’t look back for six years. But now his father is dead, the Ware family is broken, and as the heir he is being called home. It’s only when Gwyneth Rhys—the woman he loved and then lost after his family banished him—holds out her hand to help him that he is able make the difficult journey and try to piece together his fractured family.

It is Gwyneth’s loyalty, patience, and love that he needs. But is Devlin’s war-hardened heart even capable of offering her love in return?

#GIVEAWAY Showcase- The Foundation of Plot by Elena Hartwell

Join me today as I start off The Foundation of Plot by Elena Hartwell tour, sponsored by Partners in Crime tours, be sure to visit the other hosts and don't forget to enter the #Giveaway.
Enjoy!

The Foundation of Plot

by Elena Hartwell

August 1-31, 2022 Book Tour

 

Synopsis:

Structure underlies every story, but without a strong foundation, even well-written sentences can fail to result in a marketable manuscript. The Foundation of Plot defines the components of a story arc, details the differences between plot and story, and covers common errors writers make. It also includes exercises which apply concepts to works in progress or new projects. Drawing on the author’s decades of storytelling and teaching experience, this short guide provides the framework for fiction, narrative nonfiction, and memoir, walking writers through a first draft, the repair of a failed manuscript, or any draft in between. For experienced authors and first-time writers alike, applying the concepts outlined in this manual can help launch a submission from the slush pile to the bookstore shelf.  

Book Details

Genre: Nonfiction Published by: Elena Hartwell Publication Date: July 19, 2022 Number of Pages: 97 ISBN: 9798986020600 Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads | IndieBound