Devastate by Xavier Neal

When Linguistics Specialist Jody "Lordy" Lord is forced back to his southern origins his mission is clear: Protect fellow team member, behavioral analyst, Jazz Wright,from the traitor they know is hunting them. While hiding out Lordy is forced to face the past he is running from and the future he is running towards. Unexpectedly, secrets are exposed and the truth is twisted from those he trusts. Will he be able to survive the destruction or die in the devastation?

Review:

Devastate is the final installment in the Havoc series by Xavier Neal. To better understand the characters mentioned in Devastate I would recommend reading the previous novels, however, it can also be read as a stand alone. 

This story is of love, passion, and acceptance in the face of adversity. Lordy, a southern, special-ops marine,  who is sexy as hell has somehow remained a really kind hearted man after being treated poorly his entire life by the people who should love him the most. After four years he has to face them again as well as the awful reason he has never been able to be in a  committed relationship.  

Lordy is my favorite of all the Marines Xavier Neal has written.  He's intelligent, sweet, funny, and turns my insides to mush. I don't believe anything could be sexier than the vulnerable side of a marine. This story actually has a light hearted atmosphere to it. It was so much fun to read. The relationship between he and Jazz is my favorite as well. It's filled with so much tension and reluctance that the intensity put me on the edge of exploding . 

I despised, absolutely loathed his ex-girlfriend.  And I'm pretty sure we all know people who are just as awful as she. The events that transpire around her are amusing, personal victories.  I wallowed in her well- deserved humiliation.  

There are a couple of intriguing plot twists in the story-line and admittedly the end isn't something I predicted. Actually, it was ten times better than imagined.  

Hands down the best Havoc novel yet. 5 stars!

Dead Silence (Valkyrie #5) by T.G. Ayer

Ragnarok is upon the worlds, and the time to fight is now. They come from all of the Nine Realms. Dark Elves, Dragons, Frost Giants, Elves ... They all come to fight for Odin.

And they answer to Valkyrie Brynhildr.

Tricked by Loki, Bryn is now imprisoned and finding a way out is harder than it seems. Time is running out for those who fight for Odin and while Aidan's absence is felt by all, Bryn and her team know there is no time to waste.

But Bryn is determined to find him, and stop him using every means necessary. From poisoned water to black goo, to an electronically monitored Bifrost, Bryn will use all the tricks up her sleeves to save Odin and the Nine Realms.

The war is nature and there is disaster all across the Nine Realms.

Ragnarok is here ...

In this, the 5th, and final, exhilarating installment in the Valkyrie series, Bryn takes on Loki with her eye on bringing him to the Vigrid Plains, the site of the final battle of Ragnarok. From all across the world, Bryn and all her teams do all they can, battling naturals disasters and murderous attackers to prevent the end of the world.

REVIEW:

The Valkyrie journey with T.G. Ayer has sadly come to an end. Hours have been spent going on journeys to new lands, developing relationships with fictional characters,  and enjoying great writing.

Most of the Valkyrie series is an epic adventure. As this is the final installment in the series it takes on a dystopian vibe in preparation for the battle of Ragnarok.
There is more action than adventure. There is a lot of emotional angst to overcome as Bryn has not only laid her best friend to rest, but her first boyfriend as well. I truly felt the cloud of darkness that swept away Bryn on this emotional passage. Loki became enemy number one in my book as he caused vast amounts of demise with no qualms over the pain he pushed on everyone.

The ending caught me by total surprise.  It's hard to describe it without giving anything away. In a sense it is more of a short literary twist than plot twist. Venturing through mountains of journeys with fictional characters the norm has become to expect the unexpected and never the prediction.  This final installment is going throw people for a loop. Grab your copy today to find out what all of the hype is about. Want to start this journey?  The first book is free on amazon. A 5 star read!

Silver Siren by Chanda Hahn

Every journey has an end. 
Unable to find the answers she sought in Skyfell, Thalia, Joss, and Kael travel to Haven with a prisoner in tow. An attack on the road waylays their plans, and Thalia finds herself traveling alone with Kael to the hidden sanctuary of the SwordBrothers. 
But war is on the horizon and the Raven is amassing his army. This time, the target is not Calandry, but the Sirens of Sinnedor. When family ties are revealed, Thalia must choose sides. Desperate to break the final seal on her power and save those she loves, will Thalia willingly taste the bitter pain of the iron butterfly machine one final time? 


REVIEW:
Silver Siren just blew my mind. The emotional atmosphere is staggering. It was an extremely intense journey and I can't comprehend that I actually just read the end! I ended up reading Steele Wolf and Silver Siren in one sitting.

From the beginning balance with magic plays a huge role. In Silver Siren, a simple piece of information turns into a great revelation completely changing the foundation of the story.  Loose ends are tied up and I am thrilled with the end results. The ending is absolutely perfect and all of the journeys in between entertained me for hours.

The Iron Butterfly series is, without a doubt,  one of the most entertaining YA Paranormal Romance series to date.

The Steele Wolf by Chanda Hahn

Book Description:

After finally settling into her new life at the Citadel, Thalia is reunited with her father, who is disturbed at the changes within her. Risking banishment, Thalia must work to prove to her clan and herself that she is still capable of leading them. The problem is, her memories haven’t returned, and she cannot shake the feeling that she doesn’t belong.

Thalia discovers that betrayal runs deep within her clan, just as she sets out to join Joss and Kael in doing the one thing she fears most: track the Septori to save Joss’ kidnapped sister. Along the way, she must confront her own fears on a journey of self-discovery that will take her deep into the stronghold of Denai; as they travel to the ancient floating city of Skyfell.





Review:

The hysteria Chanda Hahn's name creates is well deserved as she has actualized not one, but two notorious fantasy series. The Iron Butterfly series harnesses the kind hypnotic effect that does not entice, but instead creates the die hard fantasy lover. It is  epitome of the magical and enthralling. 

Steele Wolf excites the obsessive bookie in me. The adventures and action it offers is phenomenal. The story-line had me hanging on to every last word and the hangover it created is a miserable one. I've encountered few books to bring out my obsessive qualities,  but I could not stop thinking about these characters who now feel so vital to me. I love Thalia, Joss, and Kael. Just as important is how endearing all of the secondary characters are as well. 

By now you've read and realized that the scenery has shifted and Thalia is on her way to discovering her mysterious past.  With these answers come enemies who shift the levels of intensity. 

Prepare yourselves for awesome plot twists, romantic tension, and the desire to put reality on hold for a while. Once you start reading this series there are no other options. 

(On a side note, I'm rooting for Kael!)

5++++ Stars

Faery Tales

Book Description

Publication Date: May 16, 2015

*All new, exclusive stories!* Six brand new tales of adventure, love, and treacherous fey magic from six award-winning, bestselling authors. Enter these fantastical realms where dark powers lurk and the ordinay world can be transformed in a heartbeat to a place of wonder—and danger. From the hidden fae folk dwelling among mortals to the challenges of babysitting a malicious fairy, these tales will cast their enchantment over you!

THE MORRIGAN – Phaedra Weldon
Irish folklore student Tam Kirkpatrick finds himself the focus of dark Faery forces intent on stealing his shillelagh. The catch is—Tam never knew he had one, let alone that he was the son of a Leprechaun. Now he must find his shillelagh and claim his heritage, before it’s too late.

THE SWAY – Amy Patrick
A member of the Dark Court, Vancia has spent her life among humans—together but separate, hiding in plain sight. Now Pappa says it’s time to put her glamour to use against the unsuspecting humans and worse, agree to an arranged political marriage with the reclusive Light Elven prince.

HOW TO BABYSIT A CHANGELING– USA Today bestselling author Anthea Sharp
When a mortal boy is exchanged for a hideous faerie creature, Marny Fanalua steps up to help her friends in their battle against the Dark Court.
*NOTE * The events in this novella occur simultaneously with Feyland: The Twilight Kingdom. Reading the complete Feyland Trilogy first is recommended if you would like to avoid spoilers.

FAELEAHN – Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
Meghan and Cade are ready to pledge their souls to one another in a traditional bonding ceremony of Eile. While sharing their news with friends, the faelah bounty hunter and the princess of Erintara grow even closer as their love is reflected back to them by those they hold most dear.
*NOTE* The events in this novella take place after the conclusion of Luathara, the third book in the Otherworld Trilogy. If you wish to avoid spoilers, you might want to read the first three Otherworld books (Faelorehn, Dolmarehn and Luathara) before reading.

ARRANGED – Julia Crane
Magick’s been restored on earth but it comes at a crippling price. With the planet on the brink of destruction, an unlikely pair must work together to try to bridge together a lifetime of hatred. Will their forbidden romance bring their worlds together or tear them apart?

WITHOUT ARMOR – Alexia Purdy
The Unseelie are up to no good… My name is Benton, and I hunt the darkest of creatures in existence. Especially when they get unruly and try to invade my home, the human realm. Betrayal, broken hearts and uncharted magic…I never saw it coming.


                                         Review:

***I received a copy of this anthology in exchange for an honest review***

 Morrigan

The Morrigan starts out with a riveting and exciting scene that creates an thick fog of anticipation. This book is fast-paced with an amazing energy. The prose is unique with interesting factors that captivated my intrigue.  The execution is flawless. The imagery is descriptive to the point of easy visualization without a sensory overload. I really enjoyed Tam's quick-witted logic and the over all story. It's honestly a great fantasy.  I'll definitely be reading more by this author.

The Sway: A Hidden Trilogy novella

I could not put this book down. The story-line held me entranced in an elven world, hiding in plain sight among mortals, seeking domination while a greater mystery unfolded. I was flipping through the pages faster than ever in dire need to find out what happens next in the female protagonist's life and if she will ever find a back bone to defy her overly obstinate , adoptive father's plans for her life. The cliff hanger at the end drove me somewhat insane, but it is an exemplary novella for the YA audience that I HIGHLY recommend. On a side note, I am still overly desperate to learn the gran scheme of things behind the conspiracy theory. I will be reading the other books. I HAVE to read the other books.

How To Babysit A Changeling

It took me a moment to realize I'd read book one in a previous anthology involving faeries.  It's one of the many novels I've not gotten around to reviewing yet and worth the read. This story is a quick, entertaining read. In a world that vastly revolves around technology, I can see the young adult audience finding immense enjoyment in How to Babysit a Changeling.  Marney's character is down to earth and I find myself not only wanting to read more of her, but the FeyLand series as well.

Faeleahn

This novella has been anticipated for quite some time!  The Otherworld was my first Fae series and the driving force behind my addiction. I've never been fond of reading about weddings, but Faeleahn had me in awe and in tears. It is more eloquently written than most novels I have EVER read and astonishingly,  Johnson's writing improves with each new release. It is absolutely perfect. If you are one of the many Otherworld fans, you do NOT want to miss out reading more about Meghan and Cade,  as well as their families.  It's not disappointing in the least and I honestly cannot praise Faeleahn enough. I've already informed many fellow fans and it hasn't even been released! I can't imagine anyone not loving this series, but I feel it's a fair to warn some readers that there is a more steamy scenery involved than the former novels. I don't feel it's anything too risqué and it is tastefully written. I know most will be thrilled, but if you're a parent it doesn't hurt to read ahead for your own stamp of approval.  Personally,  it melted my heart. The romance between Meghan and Cade is swoon-worthy It is a fast, fun read that will have you author stalking by the end.  5++++ Stars!

Arranged

I found Arranged downright fascinating.  It is a dystopian/science fiction/faery tale mesh up. Science Fiction isn't typically my preferred genre, but it had more of a fantasy vibe flowing. I loved Tulupea and Michael was just a really sweet character. I really fell in love with some of the characters and loathed the despicable ones.  Arranged is a great story.  I'm really hoping there is more to this story because I am absolutely dying to read more. I loved it!

Without Armor: Elemental Fire
Having read books by Alexia Purdy before I knew I could expect an excellent story from her. She's amazing with words. I became extremely enthusiastic upon discovering Benton has a love interest, but it left me feeling more on the melancholy side. I hope I get the chance to learn more. It was a nice little story.

Purchase for 99 Cents!

Iron Butterfly by Chanda Hahn

Imprisoned, starved and left with no memories, Thalia awakens to find herself at the mercy of an evil cult known as the Septori. Their leader has chosen Thalia as the test subject for a torture device of untold power, designed to change and twist her into something that is neither human nor Denai.

Escaping, Thalia finds an unwilling warrior to protect her and an unlikely Denai to befriend her. After finding a home at the Citadel as a servant, Thalia’s worst nightmare comes to life and she begins to show signs of power. Scared and unable to control her gifts, she tries to hide her past to fit in among the Denai. But the Septori want their latest test subject back and will stop at nothing to retrieve her, dead or alive.

Review:

Chanda Hahn is an extraordinary, talented author with an imagination I'm grateful she shares with us. I read and adored her Unfortunate Fairy Tale series and soon discovered she had another series released that has also received a lot of attention.  Iron Butterfly.  The name is unique and gives nothing away as to what could be in the story. 

Iron Butterfly is a historical fantasy you won't soon forget. It would make a great addition to any fantasy lovers library.  If you prefer castles and rolling hills in your scenery then stop now and grab your copy of this book on Amazon for Free while you can. The vibe of the surroundings had a classic feel to it, but beautifully interwoven into a tale of magic, tragedy, and mystery. The female protagonist harnesses realistic qualities with easy relatability for readers. After suffering much physical and mental trauma and being placed in a world foreign to her she displays behaviors typical of PTSD and struggles to adapt.  As much as I enjoy a head strong heroine, I have a soft spot for those who earn the right to that title in the face of adversity. Thalia is written very well.

The characters are extremely loveable,  but my favorite is Faraway. I love the connection he and Thalia share and the peace it seems to bring. I felt light hearted just reading of him! 

The prose flows neatly and without comprehensive hiccups in the road that would force a reader to stall for any given amount of time, breaking the momentum of a great a story-line.  It's pleasant to visualize and the emotional atmosphere is tangible, easily creating a loophole for the reader to live vicariously through female character's point of view. 

There are slight plot twists throughout the story that satiate the intrigue and develop a delicious curiosity causing a quick,  page turning response.  It captured my attention entirely and I finished the book in a few short hours. I can't start book two quickly enough! I highly recommend Iron Butterfly as the next great fantasy novel! 5+ Stars

Grab your FREE copy!

Cinderfella by Xavier Neal

Perfect body. Perfect car. Perfect life. So, what could a girl like that ever want from a guy like me? The guy with holes in his sneakers. The guy who can barely afford to eat. The guy with an unexpected secret. What could a princess like that want from me? After all fairy tales don't exist in real life...do they?

                                                                                 
                                                                       Review:

Cinderfella pulls at the heart strings. It makes on grateful for their blessings and tear up at the realization that many fight much harder battles than those which bring us down on a daily basis. Everything in life has it's consequences and through our devastation we do not always see how our choices impact those closest to us. This book made me ponder such things. I really felt for the male protagonist's realistic struggle. The female protagonist is one I had to warm up to in the long run. In the beginning, I hated her for the same reason's Conner hated her. I did end up loving  the genuine compassion and her feelings for Conner. I suppose I had trouble connecting to Gianna on a personal level for the typical "poor little rich girl" cliche.  Her parent's neglect of her, however, is noted and understandable to her situation. Rich or poor, no child deserves to feel alone in the world. Cinderfella makes a wonderful read if you enjoy intense emotions and realistic life situations. I was happy with the outcome of this book. Nice job Xavier Neal. 4 Stars!

Stain (My Soul to Wake) by Tara Oakes

My Soul to Wake is now available for pre-order for 0.99 cents! Make sure to get it now before it goes up to its regular price of $2.99! You can find teasers and the trailer as well as the synopsis below!



Witchcraft.
Reincarnation.
True love.

These are the things of legend. Unexplained, some even say impossible, but nonetheless prevalent in stories and tales from all cultures and in every land from the beginning of time. What if there is something to it? What if there is an explanation behind the mysteries and bedtime stories? Something beyond words?

SALEM, MASSACHUSETTES 1692

She was taken from him in the cruelest way... condemned, sentenced and punished out of fear of the unknown. How is he supposed to live without her? How can he go on knowing that in this life, by the natural order of things, they will never be together? There's only one thing to do... only one option that will bring them together again.
SALEM , MASSACHUSETTES TODAY

Amelia is taken on a weekend excursion with her best girlfriends to let loose, relax and have a little fun. What harm is there in a little vacation? It's not like the legends, the haunted history of the place can scare them away. It's all harmless fun.

Or so she thought.

Something seems familiar about the town. The trees, the winds, the feel of everything. Her ever present nightmares have become more intense within the limits of the old historical setting. She's prepared to write off the whole trip as nothing more than a case of her mind running away with the sensationalized magic here. When she meets a handsome stranger who's eager to know her in a way no one else can, she begins to think there may be something more to this place, something more to him.

Will has been waiting, biding his time, and praying that she'll come back. He's broken the natural order of things to possibly find her again, weaving their way through the years until they can be together again. He knows he may never find her, but he can't risk not trying. This place calls to her, just as it did to him. It will bring her back home. It will bring her back to him.

What's 300 years when it comes to true love? He's prepared to wait an eternity if he has to, just to see her, hold her, kiss her again.. to make her remember what was stolen from them so long ago. To make her remember who she is, the power she possesses and the love they swore to each other.
And don’t forget to join the Release Game! It will go from March 19th until Release Day. There will be prizes galore, including daily prizes! You can join the fun here: My Soul To Wake Event

Review:

My Soul to Wake is, without a doubt, the must read of 2015. I couldn't finish it quickly enough. I was hooked from the moment the history of the Salem Witch trials made an entrance.  I couldn't put this book down and shamefully admit to ignoring my children to finish it. Tara Oakes is simply amazing!  I have to convince myself to not read again right away because I know my kids need mommy time. There are a few grammatical errors that take nothing away from smooth flowing prose that has elicited such excitement from me. It's not often I find myself this intrigued in a story so when i do I promise it's worth it. The romance and history absolutely swept me away. The personalities of the characters are well written. I adored the female protagonist and the male prognostic stole my heart. If you're looking for magic, romance, and epic plot twist, look no further!I'm ready for the second installment asap please!

Mollify by Xavier Neal

                             
                                 Book Description :



Dean "Mr. O" Kellar has been following closely in the footsteps of his famous adopted father for years, but when Megan Davis pops back into his life suddenly he starts following him in a new light. She was the girl who saved Dean when they were children and the girl he needs to save now. Will the two of them be torn apart once more or will their hearts be allowed a chance to finally mollify?

Review :

I absolutely loved Mollify. Dean and Megan's story is a must-read! I missed Maxx and Logan, but I got to see plenty of them in this book. Actually,  the whole gang is present along with a couple of surprise characters.  I cannot give that part away, but readers will be pleased. Another aspect I'm sure readers will find pleasant is seeing Maxx and Logan's roles as parents. 

Megan is a really sweet character in a dire situation. Douche bags are bad enough, but jerk's with money just shouldn't happen. I liked how it all panned out. Another 5 star read.