Rise of the Phoenix King (Crown and Crest #4) by Shari L. Tapscott and Jake Andrews

 

The epic conclusion to the Crown and Crest series!

After serving Camellia for the last five months, Henrik is prepared to sacrifice his future to remove the people he loves from the princess’s clutches—even if it means he must say goodbye to Clover for good.

But Camellia isn’t willing to turn away from her wicked ways. Just when it seems peace might be possible, she rises again, more powerful than anyone could have predicted. Armed with magic to control a legion, the princess is determined to overthrow Lawrence and take the crown by force.

For the first time in Caldenbauer’s history, humans, Woodmores, and High Vales must band together to defeat a foe who grows stronger with each passing day. Alliances must be formed, but it’s difficult to forgive the wrongs of the past.

A new era is on the horizon, but darkness looms before the dawn…

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

The last book!!  Should I shout for joy or cry?!  Both.  The answer is both.  I always love when epic stories, spanning multiple books, come to an end.  My heart always longs for knowing endings and wrapping things up.  BUT.  It's also hard to reach the end of such a fun fantasy adventure.  The characters have become friends and it's hard to say goodbye to that.

This story is fast moving and full of crazy stuff.  You would expect that from a conclusion, right?  Everything is coming to an explosive ending!!  Each book has been working it's way to this.  Camellia the insane.  War.  Unlikely alliances.  

Henrik and Clover.  Will they?  Won't they?  Yes?  No?  It's the constant questions throughout the whole entire series.  Their story is basically a roller coaster of ups and downs, separately and together.  My desperate heart was so glad to reach a resolution with them.

This book will tug at your emotions.  This band of friends is among my favorite group of characters because of their quirks and their diversity.  I will miss them.

Content:  peril, mild violence, kissing, death.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Knight from the Ashes (Crown and Crest #1) by Shari L. Tapscott, Jake Andrews

 

 

With single-minded determination, Henrik has worked toward gaining his knighthood so he may rise above the lowly station in which he was born. But just when the coveted position is within his grasp, he’s tasked with a mission that proves to be far more difficult than expected—secretly keeping a watchful eye on Lady Clover, a nobleman’s daughter with a sharp tongue and a knack for starting fights.

Clover, too, has one goal in life, and it has nothing to do with joining dull and dry Henrik on his supply run to the northern barracks. Why the blacksmith’s son is so determined to keep her close, she has no idea. They bicker and fight, and if Clover were to find a troll pit, she would certainly dump Henrik into it.

By the time they reach their destination, they are more than ready to be rid of each other. But something is amiss in the northern mountains. The usually quiet aynauths are on the move, with a bloodthirsty agenda of killing the peaceful Woodmoor elves.

Left with no choice but to team up, Henrik and Clover investigate the strange happenings and uncover a sinister plot against the crown. Together, they have a chance to save the kingdom—but only if they can keep from killing each other first…

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

It's a new start to a new series from one of my favorite authors!  And guess what?  She co-wrote this one with her husband.  That a new dynamic.

So I have some conflicting emotions here after finishing this book and that's mostly due to the cliffhanger ending.  I really don't love to be left hanging and I'm not a very patient person when it comes to waiting for books.  I get frustrated when there is no closure and yet, I keep coming back to these books and these authors because the stories are so good.  I just can't help it.

This book is all about the adventure.  Henrik is collecting people as he goes, it seems, and unwillingly, I might add.  But I really like this fun group of characters because they all have well defined personalities and are so endearing.  I think they are all growing on Henrik as well.  This book is really about the growing friendships between them and the growing plot.  There is no real romance and no kissing although Clover and Henrik definitely have an attraction to each other.  I call this the "laying the foundation" story and it's a good one.  I'll be coming back for more because, well, cliffhanger.  The next book cannot come out soon enough.

Content:  mild violence, mild peril

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Age of Auroras (The Riven Kingdoms #4) by Shari L. Tapscott

 

 

Temporary peace has settled across Draegan as a new era begins for the cursed kingdom, but the royals know that tranquility is fleeting. In order to fulfill the magic and save the continent from its imminent destruction, Rhys and Amalia must once again return to Renove and see the rightful king ascend his throne.

The sorrows of yesterday forgotten, Amalia looks forward to crossing the rift one last time to see her family, filled with hope that the impossible task she and Rhys were charged with will soon be complete.

But the happy reunion doesn’t go as planned. The curse has fully descended on the once-blessed kingdom, and an imposter king wears a stolen crown.

Already, the broken magic begins to tear their world apart, and amidst it, an unavoidable battle looms that will test the royals in ways they never dared imagine.

Filled with love, betrayal, and magic, Age of Auroras is the epic conclusion of The Riven Kingdoms.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *  

Last book in the series?!  Sigh.  I'm so sad to be at the end but happy too.  Bittersweet.  This is a series you really need to read in order as each book builds on the last.

This was a dramatic conclusion to this series.  Each book has built on character relations and interactions.  The story line has grown and here we find ourselves at the end.  I loved the alternating perspectives and how every character was present and needed in the last great push to save the kingdoms and the people.  I love these characters but I think Seraphina and Aeron stole the show for me in this book.  They worked their magic together and I loved their emotional and dramatic ending.  😍  It was perfect for them.  And of course, this book ends where it started- with Rhys and Amalia.  Fitting and so, so good.

I may have read through this book WAY too fast.  I was so anxious to reach the conclusion and the anticipated happily ever after.  Now I wish I would have savored it a bit more.  I loved this book and this series.  Shari Tapscott is an author I can depend on for fantastic stories in many genres but I absolutely love her adventure/magical stuff.  It's so hard to find clean books in this genre.

Content:  some violence, kissing, peril.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Sea of Starlight (The Riven Kingdoms Book 2) by Shari L. Tapscott

After meeting the mysterious woman of the forest, Rhys and Amalia are left questioning everything they know about the feuding kingdoms’ history, the two royal families that began the war, and their own turbulent relationship.
There is only one place to find answers—in Draegan, the cursed kingdom that lies across the Chasm. Rhys would like more than anything to keep Amalia away from the land of nightmares, sickness, and death, but the princess is determined to cross the rift.

And Rhys is determined to keep Amalia safe…no matter the cost. Even if she will despise him for it before their journey’s end.

Meanwhile, in the heart of Draegan, Rhys’s sister is faced with her own problems. Her father and brother are at odds, dark creatures are finding their way into the fortress castle, and a new prisoner is patiently chipping at the walls Cassia has built around her heart...

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

AAAAHHHH!  Ugh.  Waiting is the worst.  I really dislike waiting.  I just finished this book and I'm ready to read the next book right now.  Ending books in a place of no resolution drives me bonkers.  Clearly, I am loving this series or else I really wouldn't care about the next book.

This author is one of my favorite.  I love her adventure stories the best.  This one is mingled with a touch of fantasy and magical elements.  There is a heavy dose of secrets and political intrigue.  Romantic tension is swirling all over and driving me mad in the best of ways.  I was happy to see the addition of Rhys's family into the story.  There is a good balance of plot and characters which helps the story move right along.  Obviously the end came too soon for me and I just want more.  As soon as possible.  Oh, and more kissing too, if all my dreams are coming true.  

This is book two in this series that must be read in order.

Content:  mild peril, kissing

Forest of Firelight (The Riven Kingdoms Book 1) by Shari L. Tapscott

After the sudden death of her brother, Princess Amalia is charged with what feels like an impossible task—she must choose the next king. Youthful thoughts of love are pushed aside as she accepts her fate, setting upon a quest throughout the kingdom to find a man worthy of her father’s throne.

Little does Amalia know, someone has already set his sights on her.

Rhys is a man of secrets, and his mission is simple: befriend the princess of Renove. Coax her to trust him, convince her to follow him.

Betray her when it’s time.

All goes according to plan until Rhys meets the princess. Amalia is a disaster. Never has he met someone so drawn to trouble. Never has he met someone so irritatingly likable.

He’s not allowed to fall for her.

She could never entrust him with a crown.

But, unbeknownst to them, their unlikely partnership might be the key to saving their entire world from a darkness that’s slowly creeping from the wounded earth that separates one kingdom from the next.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am for the beginning of this new series by Shari Tapscott.  This is the what I've been waiting for!  These adventure/romance books with a touch of the magical and fantasy are so good and I think this author excels in this genre.  (I actually love her books in all genres, but this might be my favorite)

There are definitely secrets swirling around in this book.  Intrigue and danger are everywhere.  Rhys is a bit of a mystery but his story is slowly unfolding and I really like it where it is going.  Amalia is endearing and so easy to like.  I love her sense of adventure and the loyalty she has to her family and her role as princess.  Rhys and Amalia together are yummy.  Too bad I have to wait for the next book.  I'd sure like to read it right now!

Content:  mild violence, peril, kissing

This book is on KU if you have that.  This is a series you will need to read in order.

Master of the Phantom Isle (Dragonwatch #3) by Brandon Mull

 

Cursed by the Key of Forgetting, Seth has lost all memory of his past—his relationships, his experiences, and who he really is. For now he will align with his new mentor, Ronodin, the dark unicorn, who takes him to the Phantom Isle, the secret gateway to the Under Realm. Though Seth is not formally a prisoner, Ronodin wants to use him and his shadow charmer powers for his own dark ends.

Kendra is frantic to find her missing brother, but the quest will take her and her companions, including Warren, Tanu, and Vanessa, far from Wyrmroost to Crescent Lagoon—a recently fallen dragon sanctuary made up of many islands and underwater domains. Its caretaker has regained a foothold on one of the islands. If Kendra and her friends can save that sanctuary, they might uncover the answers they need to rescue Seth.

With each sanctuary the dragons overthrow, Celebrant, the Dragon King, comes closer to the dawn of a new Age of Dragons. With the forces of darkness on the march, can Kendra and her allies gather enough power to win the epic dragon war?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Dragonwatch, Master of the Phantom Isle doesn’t miss a beat, picking up right where the last book left off.  The dragons are still at it, seeking domination, and it’s hard to imagine a greater threat.  Though in this adventure a greater threat does reveals itself.  Can Kendra stand against this dark threat without the help of Seth?

For Seth, life is hard when dealing with memory loss and the choices one makes under those circumstances gets to the heart of the character.  It is fun exploring Seth’s character more in depth when past choices can no longer influence the present ones.  The true desires of Seth’s heart manifest themselves.

The book takes the reader to tropical places with beaches and palm trees but it’s certainly no vacation with peril everywhere ranging from plants that want to eat you, to the undead and a raging triclops.  Yet in the midst of all the trials Kendra is still willing to give her all for her brother.

From underwater adventures, to deep and dark places from your worst nightmares, this book provides another fun read from Brandon Mull.  There are even a few surprise twists! This is a great series and adds another prized addition to the Fablehaven / Dragonwatch series.  I look forward to reading the series again; Master of the Phantom Isle gets an A+.

This is a series you must read in order as each book builds on the previous book.

Content:  peril, mild violence

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.  

About the Author:

Brandon Mull is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Fablehaven, Beyonders, and Five Kingdoms series. A kinetic thinker, Brandon enjoys bouncy balls, squeezable stress toys, and popping bubble wrap. He lives in Utah in a happy little valley near the mouth of a canyon with his four children and a dog named Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Brandon loves meeting his readers and hearing about their experiences with his books.

www.brandonmull.com  Follow the author on Instagram @writerbrandon and Facebook @authorbrandonmull  

Robin and Marian: A Clean Billionaire Romance in Merry New England (Adventurous Romantics) by Stephanie Fowers

Who says Chivalry is dead?
Robin King lives up to the legendary name of Robin Hood more than he should—a bigshot billionaire and successor of King enterprises, a Prince of Mischief and a rogue who steals hearts ... and maybe even a few kisses. He never thought he’d follow the storyline so closely, until the day he gets in trouble with the law and pays the price—all for protecting his younger sister Scarlett.

Taken in by an Outlaw
Marian is a hard-hitting reporter … or would be if the New England Chronicle would stop assigning her puff pieces. Now she has the chance to prove herself, but it could prove her undoing—since the story of a lifetime might just be Robin King, a ruthless scoundrel, who she swore would never break her heart again.

Making New England Olde again
Together, they must overcome their differences to save their hometown from thieves and corruption. And they’d better do it before someone gets killed. As danger lurks closer, legend becomes life, and Robin’s feelings for Marian deepen as he struggles with sharing the secrets that could clear his name and ruin his sister.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

There were so many things I loved about this book.  First, the Robin Hood references all throughout, and I mean references that reminded me of the Disney cartoon Robin Hood.  So many little things as well as the obvious bigger things like names and places.  It made me happy.  And, I think I've had the Robin Hood and Little John song running on a constant loop in my head since I started this book.  You know the one?  Ooo Da Lolly, Ooo Da Lolly, Golly What a Day!

But obviously, this book wasn't like the cartoon, it was a grown up, real life version, full of treachery, deceit, lies, jealousy, danger and my favorite- love.   Robin is a literal hero.  Honestly, you probably couldn't dream up a better man.  Chivalry is alive and well in this book.  I loved that!  The intensity grew throughout the whole story as the mystery deepened.  The ending was climactic and the epilogue was the perfect bow to tie off my present.  

This book is a long one.  It's almost double the size of normal books so know that going in.  Things don't progress super quickly plot wise, but I never felt bored or distracted.  It was like a modern day Robin Hood soap opera saga and it was fun!

Content:  peril, violence, kissing, death

- I picked this one up on Kindle Unlimited

Piper Prince (Forbidden Forest #2) by Amber Argyle

Can you hear him? The beast is coming for you. 

Long ago, a curse fell upon the land—a curse of forgetting and wraiths, a curse that ensured no daughters were born to the pied pipers in over three centuries. The pipers were all that stood between humanity and utter destruction, so they did the only thing they could: they stole the daughters of the nearby kingdom with their hypnotizing melodies. With the sons born from those unions, they continued to defend against the wraiths and fight the curse, even though they were slowly losing.

Larkin was one of those daughters. Stolen by Denan and married against her will, she found herself falling in love with the very man who had taken everything from her, the man who had made her a princess. Together, they discovered that she was the first woman in three centuries to possess the magic of the pipers, and therefore, the only person capable of breaking the ancient curse.

But breaking the curse means unraveling the very past the curse is intent on keeping secret. The answer lies buried in the crypts of the Black Druids, men who consider Larkin a traitor they’ll kill on sight. Embedded in the intrigues of their court, she unearths a dark conspiracy destined to hasten the destructive power of the curse—a conspiracy aimed at destroying her piper prince.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

The Piper Prince is the second book in the Forbidden Forest series.  You should definitely read these books in order.  It took me a quick minute to remember exactly where the last book left off but as I read, things started coming back to me and I was once again sucked into Larkin's world.

Amber Argyle is excellent at creating characters that are clearly defined, layered and interesting.  This story has a constant forward momentum that kept me on the edge of my seat and anxious.  Larkin's world is in constant turmoil with different groups of people warring against each other.  It's a violent world, and Larkin, Denan and company are always on the move and always fighting.  Secrets are unraveling slowly but surely.  I was fully invested in the story, these characters and everything that was happening.  What a fantastic adventure!  I can't wait for the next book because as per usual with this author, I am left in a place where there isn't much resolution.  I really want the rest of the story!

Content:  violence, death, mild innuendo between a married couple, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Sorceress in Training: A Retelling of The Sorcerer's Apprentice (Fairy Tale Kingdoms #3) by Shari L. Tapscott

Before Lady Brynn took her first breath, her life's path was already chosen. Born into a family that values tradition, at twenty years of age, Brynn is expected to travel to the College on the Mount and spend the rest of her days immersed in books—learning science, architecture, and mathematics, devoting herself wholly to her studies, forbidden from indulging in frivolities such as literature or poetry. Or love.

A week after Brynn’s fated birthday, everything is going according to plan. But when Brynn's carriage busts an axle on the road to the college, one chance meeting with a mysterious sorcerer could change the course of her life forever. In order to escape duty—to claim her position as the sorcerer’s apprentice and avoid a life of solitude—Brynn must ask for help.

As a guard in Lord Calvin’s employ, Gavin knows his place. He’s sworn to protect Brynn and escort her to her new home. If the thought of abandoning her in the cold stone walls of the college ties a hard knot in his gut, it doesn't matter. And if he's in love with her? That doesn’t matter either.

Despite Gavin’s reservations, when Brynn begs the guard to see her safely to her new position in the sorcerer’s house, he’s helpless to resist. Now they’re running in the night, barreling toward an unknown future.

But soon the pair realizes they’ve made a grave mistake. Because Master Marcus is shrouded in dark secrets, and as his apprentice, Brynn is trapped right in the middle of them…

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I am always on the lookout for a new book by Shari Tapscott.  Her books are some of my favorites.  This book is the third book in a series of fairy tale re-tellings.  Characters from previous books are mentioned and one of the main characters from The Queen of Gold and Straw (Rune) makes a prominent appearance in this book as his story continues from the last book.  I was actually so glad to see him.  My heart gave a happy sigh that I would hopefully see a happy ending for him.  Because of the ongoing story of this character, I would recommend reading these books in order.  They are all so good though, you won't be sorry.

Brynn's desire to follow her own path resonates throughout this whole book.  I could really feel her desire to be something of her own choosing and not be subjected to the caged in path her family set before her.  She is somewhat impulsive but constant in her desires.  She wants to be her own woman and she wants Gavin.  

Gavin is a tough nut to crack.  He is motivated by duty and social expectations.  Brynn pushes against both of those things naturally and Gavin has such a hard time wrapping his head around that.  But, he has a heart that is bound to Brynn.  It's terribly romantic.

I loved the characters, the dialogue and the adventure of this story.  It had everything I've come to expect and look for in a book by this author. 

This series is on Kindle Unlimited!

Content:  kissing, mild peril

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Fairy Tale Kingdoms Reading Order:

The Marquise and Her Cat
The Queen of Gold and Straw
The Sorceress in Training

Wrath of the Dragon King (Dragonwatch #2) by Brandon Mull

 

War has come to the dragon sanctuaries of the world and nowhere is the danger more intense than at Wyrmroost. After a humiliating defeat at the hands of Kendra and Seth, Celebrant, King of Dragons, prepares to unleash his fury and take control of his native preserve. Armed with information from a new ally Ronodin, the dark unicorn Celebrant seeks a legendary talisman the dominion stone.

However, the powerful stone is protected by a cursed castle. Upon entering the castle fortress, an unyielding power strips all magical beings of their power and forces Celebrant to take his human avatar form. Kendra and Seth must enter the cursed castle as well. The race is on. Will the two young caretakers rally enough support from the creatures of Wyrmroost against the greatest threat the magical community has faced in ages? Can they foil Celebrant's plan and beat him to the mighty dominion stone? Or will all hope be shattered by the wrath of the Dragon King?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

 Review by Brandon (my husband):

 Many people have a place they love to go where imagination runs wild and reality is forgotten, the Fablehaven universe is that place for me, I’m so glad Dragowatch continues the adventure.  This is a middle grade fantasy adventure series.

Seth is back along with his humor; his interactions with other characters are pure entertainment. Kendra helps balance Seth with her thoughtful nature and if I had a journey through the Bewilderness I’d pick Kendra every time. Thank goodness for the somber knight and his trusty ride! Teamwork is on full display as a group of friends work together to solve mysteries and win a contest with the world at stake.

At this point I feel like I’m part of the family. As with the other Fablehaven adventures, Wrath of the Dragon King is well written and even though I’m not a “young” reader I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone that can read… lots of fun. 

 - I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

From Aimee:  This reviewing gig is becoming a family affair!  I recently added my daughter, Jaalah, into my reviewing schedule and now I've added my husband, Brandon too.  He loves this series and when I was asked if I wanted to read and review this book, I had to say no because I am just completely booked up for reviews.  Brandon was not happy with me.  At all.  So, he offered to review it and the publisher agreed (after laughing a bit at our proposal).  This is his first review and I have to say that I'm pretty proud of him!  It only took him two tries to get enough in there to satisfy me.  haha

Storm Front (Montana Rescue #5) by Susan May Warren

A tornado has destroyed a small Minnesota community and among the missing are not only a group of students but PEAK Rescue team leader Chet King. Ty Remington will stop at nothing to rescue his mentor, not even when the girl he loved--and lost--walks back into his life. But Brette needs his help more than he knows, despite her stubborn determination to push him away. And when he gets a second chance, loving her just might cost him more than he can imagine.

A blogger for Vortex Storm Chasers, Brette Arnold didn't expect her adventures to land her in the same place as Ty, the guy who she walked--no, ran--from over a year ago. She had her reasons--good ones. The kind that tell her that falling for him again would only lead to heartache. But Ty isn't the kind of man to give up--not on the missing students, or on her.

Life and love hang in the balance in Susan May Warren's breathless story of holding on to hope during a deadly summer of storms.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I am so obsessed with this series (and the previous series) by Susan May Warren.  I watch and wait to see when the next book is coming out and then stalk NetGalley waiting, hoping to see a review copy become available.  Honestly, I am a stalker of this series.  Why?  I love the characters, who cross over throughout the books.  They become so familiar to me and that sense of family and belonging shines through.  I also love the sense of adventure and danger that is in full force.  It pushes these stories forward and I become so wrapped up in what is happening I don't want to put the book down!  What more could you ask for in a book?

Ty is one of my favorite characters, I think.  I loved his deep down desire to help people, to fix things, to save lives.  He is a follow his gut kind of guy and I loved how hard he fought for what he believed was right.  

Brette has been through so much.  So many hard things and she has tackled them all on her own.  Her fierce independence protects her to some degree, but it drove me mad.  I wanted to shake some sense into her!  Ty was so utterly good to her.  He's the hero of this book, no doubt about it.

Yeah, I loved this one.  I can't wait for what is coming next!  (I'm back to stalking mode- ha!)   This is the fifth book in this series and I would recommend reading them in order just because you will love them more if you do. 

Content:  peril, kissing, some Christian elements

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher per my request.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Elodie of the Sea (Eldentimber #5) by Shari L. Tapscott

He's a king who gave up on love. She's a girl with no memory.

An entire ocean is keeping them apart. 
Eight years have passed since the marriage tournament that decided the fate of Princess Pippa of Lauramore and strengthened alliances between the kingdoms of Elden. The competitors have moved on with their lives. Some have found adventure; some have found love.

Prince Bran of Triblue, however, has put his life on hold, preparing for his father's crown.

Two days before Bran's winter coronation, just when the prince cannot afford distractions, a girl washes onto the Triblue shore. She has no memory of her past life, no clue who she is or where she belongs—nothing but a ring on her finger and a peculiar marking on her cheek.

And the newly crowned king has more than a mysterious girl to worry about. The sea has become unpredictable. Storms claim ships in the dead of night, and sailors return with horrifying stories of monsters from the deep. It soon becomes clear the girl and the bizarre events are connected.

The girl came from the sea... and the sea wants her back.

But Bran isn't willing to give her or his kingdom up without a fight, even if it means he must request help from every corner of Elden.

* Amazon * Goodreads *

 

I was so, so happy to read this story for a couple reasons.  One, I love this series.  It's one of my favorite.  Two, I have been waiting for Bran (who I love) to get his happy ever after.  He's been around since book one and it's about time.  

 

As with all the books in this series, this book has adventure, light romance and a touch of mystery.   All characters from the previous books made an appearance in this book and it was so fun- like a family reunion!  Each book can stand alone and don't necessarily have to be read in order, but you will probably enjoy this series more if you do. 

 

Elodie is from the sea.  She has some mermaid like qualities with some creative twists.  My imagination was sparked, filling my mind with visions of far off lands and magical creatures.  The story kept a good pace and I was completely invested from beginning to end.

 

I love this series.  It's great for YA and adults alike.  It's clean (no swearing or sexual situations) which I also love.

 

Content:  some violence, mild peril

 

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.  All opinions expressed are my own.  

 

Wildwood Larkwing (Silver and Orchids #3) by Shari L. Tapscott

“Till death do us part” might come sooner than Lucia imagined. 

After living her entire life on the outside looking in, Lucia has finally ventured into the world of Kalae’s nobility. Now infamous for slaying several sirens in their forbidden waters, she is the king’s new pet, the courtiers’ favorite conversation topic, and the queen’s least favorite former chicken maid.

As if navigating this new world were not enough, a shadow has fallen over Kalae’s most beautiful royal city. Crime runs rampant in Teirn, alchemy supply shoppes are pillaged in the dead of night, and rumors of illicit underground masquerades abound.

On top of all that, Lucia has her own problem in the form of the pirate who stole a piece of her heart. Still-healing Avery is not content with a sliver of Lucia’s affection, not after what transpired between them on the mystery-enshrouded whirlpool island. But with a dark man stalking the adventuress, and a simple job spiraling her and Sebastian into the depths of Kalae’s criminal underworld, Lucia's not sure if she'll live long enough to give the captain a real chance.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Oooh, this is a series that I LOVE!  It's always a happy day for me when a new book comes out from Shari Tapscott.  She writes books in a way that are so easy for me to settle in with.  I first fell in love with Shari's writing in the Eldentimber series.  It's still one of my favorites.  Shari's books incorporate adventure, magic and a bit of romance.  You probably want to read this series in order.  Start at the beginning (Moss Forest Orchid).  You won't regret it.  :)

Because this book is the third in the Silver & Orchids series, these characters are all so familiar to me and I feel as if I know them all personally.  I love them!  I felt like this book was a little less "action"  and heart pounding stuff than book two (which is my favorite so far) but I still really liked this book.  Relationships between the characters are changing and evolving.  I'm really looking forward to the next book!  I think it comes out in November!

Here's one of my favorite quotes from this book:

"Sometimes real confidence doesn't show up until after you pretend for a bit."

Content:  Some kissing, mild peril

A Matter of Trust (Montana Rescue #3) by Susan May Warren

Champion back country snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he's remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana's rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can't seem to find his footing--or forget the woman he loved, who betrayed him.

Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the limelight as the second-youngest senator in the country. But she has a secret--one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track.

When Ella's brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park's most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn't so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he'll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother, a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain.

But old sparks relight as they search for the missing snowboarder--and suddenly, they are faced with emotions neither can deny. But when Ella's secret is revealed, can they learn to trust each other--even when disaster happens again?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I absolutely love this series by Susan May Warren.  Well, this and the Montana Fire series.  They are both so good.  They have cross over characters that really give you a sense of community and family.  Each book feels like coming home.

Just like previous books in this series, this book is full of danger and adventure set in the great outdoors.  I loved the forward momentum in this story and how I was on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and white knuckled gripping my kindle for half the book.  

Gage is a snowboarding magician- the greatest back country boarder of his time.  He's known for his no fear attitude and love for the thrill of danger.  Then something went wrong and that hotshot life he knew was wiped away.  You can't help but feel sympathy for Gage who got the raw end of a deal.  While trying to be the hero, he was made out to be a villain.  Now he's rebuilding his life and finding value in helping other people.  I thought Gage was savvy and an all around solid character.  I really liked him.

The other thing I love about these books are the side stories going on around the main story.  It sets the stage for future books by giving you a prequel of sorts.  I cannot wait for the next book!

Content:  mild peril, kissing, mild Christian fiction elements

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

Greybrow Serpent (Silver and Orchids Book 2) by Shari L. Tapscott

The captain of the Greybrow Serpent is the last man Lucia’s willing to trust. But he’s the only one who can save her. 

Lucia’s dreamed of finding Avery for a solid two months. In every one of her fantasies, the dashing captain has been on the deadly end of her dagger. Unfortunately, their reunion is not all she hoped it would be. The captain is back, but he comes bearing news: the Duke of Mesilca holds a grudge, and he’s set a bounty on their heads.

Now Lucia’s running from bounty hunters, partnering with a man with the morals of a snake, and forcing Sebastian to court Adeline in a desperate attempt to keep the innocent seamstress safe.

Captain Greybrow is the only one with a solid plan, one that will take Lucia into the heart of forbidden, siren-inhabited waters. But after Avery’s betrayal, can Lucia find a way to trust him again? It won’t be easy, especially when it appears the captain has yet another hidden agenda.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Oh!  Oh-ey, oh oh.  Eeeeeeep!  Ooo-eee.  

Yup.  I've been reduced to noises.  Those are lovey noises though, if you couldn't tell.  I LOVED this book.  I was so caught up in it- fully invested and watching the scenes unfold like a fantastic adventure movie in my head.  It's no secret that I love Shari Tapscott's writing.  It really settles in with me and as a reader, that feels fantastic.  Shari is an auto buy for me any and every time.

I first fell in love with Shari's Eldentimber Series.  That series is one of my favorites.  It's the perfect series for YA and adults alike.  It's clean and just so adventurous and fun.  If you haven't read any of these books, you really, really should.

And this new series?  Oh my.  I'm in.  One hundred percent in.  The first book (and prequel) were so good but this book?  More emotions come into play- more intense emotions.  Avery Greybrow was a key player in book one but took a somewhat secondary role to Lucia and Sebastian.  In this book, Avery becomes more of the focus while Sebastian takes a more behind the scenes role.  It's amazing to me how the author shifted my emotions and devotions in this book.  Crazy.  I was thinking about this book long after I finished it and I was sure wishing I didn't have to wait for the next book.  UGH!!  It definitely left me hanging, dangling, right over that cliff.  (which I don't like, really)  BUT.  I'll be desperate to get that next book in my hands!

This book is quite the adventure.  Adventure on the high seas.  It has fantastic pacing and like I said before, played out just like a movie in my head.  

Sigh.  I want to go read it again.  Right now.  

This series is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that!!  YAY!

Content:  some mild violence, peril.  Some kissing, mild innuendo.  Clean.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book but have also purchased my own copy.

Moss Forest Orchid (Silver & Orchids, Book One) by Shari L. Tapscott

What happens when a feisty adventuress, a lord looking to make his own way in the world, and a handsome sea captain set out to find Kalae's rarest and most valuable flower?

Trouble—and lots of it.

Lucia needs a job, and she needs one fast. Looting dragon hordes hasn't proven profitable lately, and she's tired of waiting tables. Her business partner usually finds the work, but Sebastian isn't speaking with her, and Lucia's getting desperate.

Luckily, Lucia finds a simple request posted on a community board. All the man wants is an orchid. Nothing to it.

Except the flower only grows in a montane cloud forest in Grenalda... And Lucia must take a ship through sea serpent-infested waters to get there... And her new helpful friend—the one and only, dashing Captain Avery Greybrow—just might be a pirate.

At this rate, Lucia's not sure if she'll ever reach the orchid. But she's determined to try.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Shari Tapscott is one of my favorite authors.  I literally gobble up her books.  My obsession started with the Eldentimber Series and I've been a fan ever since.  I've been looking forward to this new series since I heard about it and even more so when I read the prequel novella last week.  I love that Shari writes books that I enjoy and that I feel comfortable passing on to young teenager readers and up.  Her books are fun, adventurous and clean.  

The characters in this book are so great.  They are distinct and their voices shine through.  I fell in love with them.  Lucia is trouble with a capitol T.  She finds herself in the worst scrapes, mostly because she just cannot control that mouth of hers.  She is impulsive and I just loved her.

Sebastian and Lucia share the same sense of adventure, but other than that, they are pretty much polar opposites.  Sebastian is methodical and deliberate.  He plans and prepares.  He is constantly getting Lucia out of her many scrapes.  Sebastian and Lucia have known each other since they were little and that history, that level of knowing each other, keeps them bound together.

Now that I've read this book, I want a pocket dragon!  Lucia has one in this book but he turns out to be more than she expected.  I can't wait to see what that dragon becomes in the follow up books!  

I loved this book and I'm so excited for this series!  If you haven't read anything by Shari, you really, really must.  

Today is release day for Moss Forest Orchid!  You can pick it up on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.  Happy Reading!

Content:  Clean, some mild action and violence

- I received a copy of this book from the author but have also purchased my own copy.  All opinions expressed are my own.

No Way Up (Cimarron Legacy #1) by Mary Connealy

When Cimarron ranch patriarch Chance Boden is caught in an avalanche, the quick actions of hired hand Heath Kincaid save him. Badly injured, Chance demands that his will be read and its conditions be enforced immediately. 

Without anyone else to serve as a witness, Heath is pressed into reading the will. If Justin, Sadie, and Cole Boden don't live and work at home for the entire year, the ranch will go to their low-down cousin Mike. 

Then Heath discovers the avalanche was a murder attempt, and more danger might follow. Deeply involved with the family, Heath's desire to protect Sadie goes far beyond friendship. The danger keeps them close together, and their feelings grow until being apart is the last thing on their minds.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

It's release day for this new book by Mary Connealy!  It's also the beginning of a new series- The Cimarron Legacy.  I am always on the lookout for new books by Mary Connealy- she is one of my favorite authors in the inspirational romance genre.  Her books are always more than inspirational romance though, they are full of adventure and usually some mystery as well.  That's what I love the best.

This book, while good, was not my favorite.  I've been trying to determine why that might be and the only thing I can really come up with is that I felt less connection with the characters than I usually do.  This book was more plot driven and there were a lot of characters.  I felt like I was getting a lot of information, sometimes in a way that felt like I was getting a lot of information.  Usually the characters shine with personality in Connealy's books and I felt like this one lacked a bit of that for me.

Having said that, I did enjoy the book- especially toward the end when things really got moving.  The action picked up and I was fully engaged as a reader.  I definitely felt the plot setting up for future books and I will be picking up the next book.  Even though there were some things that lacked for me in this book, I am a Mary Connealy fan and I'll be coming back for more by her.  Plus, now that I know more of the "story" perhaps the next book will bring out the character connections I'm looking for.

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Janitors: Heroes of the Dustbin by Tyler Whitesides

Spencer knew that from the moment the Founding Witches had returned, the Rebel Janitors had begun disappearing. So many schools were defenseless now, the students' minds rotting from Toxite breath while the janitors vanished without a trace. Then it became personal.

Although their enemies are powerful, their allies few, Spencer and his ream of Rebels are not giving up! But what chance do a handful of kids and one rescued janitor have against the combined evil of the Founding Witches and the Sweepers? Can the Rebels close the source of all Glop and stop the Toxites once and for all—or is the world doomed to fall under the control of the sinister Bureau of Educational Maintenance? This explosive series finale is a griping ride through conflicted loyalties and daring escapes, unexpected alliances and betrayals, and an ending you'll never forget!

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I'm going to start out by saying that I love this series.  If you are looking for a book with imagination oozing from it's pages, this is where you go.  This Janitors series is packed with fun, adventure and like I said, imagination.  You will never look at cleaning supplies the same way again.

I wish this series had been out when my son was young.  He would have loved this book being read aloud to him.  I would have loved that too.  This book is perfect for reading aloud to younger children and perfect for those tricky middle grade readers.

The cover of this book is fantastic.  You get a perfect glimpse of the Founding Witches, their love for pizza and the sink filled with bubbles which are actually cameras.  Those tricky witches watch everyone through those bubbles!  

In this final book of the series you will see the Rebels, while few in numbers, coming together in a final effort to stop the glop and toxites and the BEM.  This book has an excellent pace to it.  There will be no falling asleep during this book!  There are some big battles going on.  The fight between good and evil is strong in this book.  

As per most last books of the series, I am equally happy and sad.  It's always feels good to have a conclusion- an ending to wrap my heart around.  But, it's also sad to say goodbye to characters you've had so much fun with.  

This book isn't out today, but it is set to release on Tuesday, Sept. 8th.  That's just a few days from now!  If you have middle grade readers or younger children around you, I would so highly recommend this series for them.  It's simply fantastic.

My thanks to the publisher, Shadow Mountain, for allowing me to read and review this book for them.

WhipEye by Geoffrey Saign

Samantha and her neighbor, Jake, have no idea that Samantha’s best friend, a parrot named Charlie, is a thousand years old. Charlie is also at the center of a secret battle between an ancient, evil man’s monsters and magical creatures. When Charlie asks Samantha and Jake to protect him, they are chased by monsters from both sides. To save Charlie, and two worlds, Samantha and Jake have twenty-four hours to figure out how to use the supernatural staff, WhipEye, and find the courage to confront what they fear most…

* Amazon * Goodreads *

WhipEye is a MG fantasy adventure book with some mystery and magic thrown in as well.  I'm not sure how MG this book actually is, it felt more YA with MG kids in it.

Charlie is a parrot, a talking parrot with a big problem and he needs help.  Sam and Jake are pulled in to help Charlie in a quest to save two worlds from the evil Magnar who has been holding Charlie captive for many years.  There are lots of monster like creatures who chase after Samantha and Jake.

One thing I think the author did a good job of was describing scenes so that I could visualize them in my head.  I had clear pictures of places and things that were happening.

I'm not sure this book was up to par with the many other MG books I've read through major publishing companies, but it was okay.  The writing was a bit rough around the edges- the flow, the dialogue.  I didn't find myself personally connecting to the characters but it was a fun story and if you enjoy fantasy/magic/adventure type books you may really enjoy this one.  It just wasn't a great fit for me.