The Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was an interesting story. It did skip time a bit without much explanation but it was a good story. I liked the characters and the descriptions. It had a couple sexual descriptions but what was the most descriptive was the gore and the creatures on the planet. I will definitely read book 2 when it comes out.
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•*• BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •*••*•
Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush
Karli Rush was born in the heart of the Cherokee Nation and lives in its capital. Her Native American heritage holds sway over her writing in many ways. She has the patience of a brain surgeon operating under fire in a war zone. You can chalk that up to her being the mother of an autistic kiddo. With the passion of a starving artist, she writes. The obsession to tell her tales has led her to write novels in the worlds of Dark Paranormal Romance, Dystopian, and Vampires. She walks in two worlds; one grounds her and the other frees her imagination.
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 
Barbara Barnett is the author of three books, including the award-winning The Apothecary’s Curse, a finalist for the prestigious Bram Stoker Award for a debut novel. She is an editor-at-large and former publisher and executive editor of Blogcritics (blogcritics.org), an Internet magazine of pop culture, politics, and more, for which she has also contributed nearly 1,000 essays, reviews, and interviews over the past decade. Always a pop-culture and sci-fi geek, Barbara was raised on a steady diet of TV (and TV dinners), but she always found her way to fiction’s tragic anti- heroes and misunderstood champions, whether on TV, in the movies, or in literature. (In other words, Spock, not Kirk; Han Solo, not Luke Skywalker!) Her first book, Chasing Zebras: The Unofficial Guide to House, M.D. (ECW Press), reflects her passion for these Byronic heroes, and it was inevitable that she would have to someday create one of her own in Gaelan Erceldoune, hero of both The Apothecary’s Curse and The Alchemy of Glass.
The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Queen’s Dance is the second Heart & Hand Series book. This book follows Claire, the younger sister of Anna. Though this book is part of a series, you can read it without reading book one. In this story, Claire has decided to guard her heart but soon finds love. As tragedy unfolds, Claire has to adapt and evolve to survive. If possible, I enjoyed this book more than the first. The author’s amazing world-building and well-written characters stand front and center. You experience such an array of emotions just in the book’s first quarter. I loved seeing old characters return and their growth. There is as much adventure as the first. The romance is fabulous and the dialogue is witty and has good humor. You find yourself hooked quite easily. I look forward to the third book.
The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was just what my poor over romanced genre self needed. I love that it was a slow burn. I do not often read these and I might have to rethink that as this was so good. I love how there was adventure and drama mixed in and that it wasn’t an in your face oversexed read. Don’t get me wrong I do love those but sometimes a girl needs one that just has a huge build up and a happy ending to boot. I love how the author is able to bring the characters to life. I felt as though I was right there in the adventure with them. Definitely a good second book from this series. I cannot wait to see how the series will continue and play out.
Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
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The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What an epic fantasy tale The Queen’s Dance has turned out to be. The magical realm of Aurelia and neighbouring kingdoms come to life under Nicoles clever worldbuilding. This book brings about a more mystical element as Clare learns that a curse may just be a gift. But she has many trials ahead of her. Will she get back to the man she loves.
There is fear, loathing, angst, hope, heartache, heartbreak, passion, courage, and a lot more. It is a historical romance tale with paranormal elements, and I found I was drawn into this medieval story more and more as the clever plotting and trials and tribulations unfolded.
There is political intrigue, survival, plants, lore, magic and coming into one’s own. Discovering what could truly be.
If you like epic fantasy romances, then this book is for you.
Reviewed by @jennadb
The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
The Queen’s Dance is the second book in the Heart & Hand series by Nicole E. Kelleher. It is a very original fantasy with romance, magic, adventure, action, chemistry, spice, challenges, dramatic developments, fate, tension, intensity, high stakes, culture, politics, emotion, banter, and humour.
This expands on what we started in Book #1- but this time the story focuses on Claire and Trian. These characters were so easy to connect with- which made me completely invested in them and the outcome of the story. Again, as with the first book, Ms. Kelleher weaves a story full of clever and creative touches, not only is her world-building on point, but she also created an original lore around which she constructed her story. Another angsty adventure that pulled me in and kept me engaged the whole way through.
Looking forward to Book #3.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Nicole E. Kelleher!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
A Vampire in Disguise is about Hazel, who is a Goode Witch, is searching for her fellow magical sister Willow, since she has gone missing.
The book starts with Hazel’s journey to Shadow Hollow, for which she has been sent an anonymous letter stating that Willow could be in danger, and her touchstone is enclosed. Something that she will not leave behind.
We follow Hazel, as she arrives at Shadow Hollow, a place where magical beings are accepted and live freely within the commit, much to the shock of Hazel, that has always been told not to draw attention to herself or the witching community. So, to be able to talk and practice freely, it is something she battles to get used to.
However, she does not know that there are people that collect supernatural creatures and could therefore add more problems to her already problematic visit.
Whilst she is searching for her sister, she meets people on the way that will not only become very good friends but would also help her in the search for ger missing sister, as well as giving her the clues she so desperately needs.
One person she meets will not only become a grand alai, but a great link towards Willow and the secrets that has been kept hidden from her sister, which will blow the case wide apart.
This book got me hooked immediately, the fantasy of the magical creatures set alongside a mystery of why Willow went missing, to the romance that lay ahead for Hazel, which is something she was not expecting.
If you love Vampire reads, this is a total must! Such an easy read, with several twists and turns and events that will keep you reading! Would recommend.
The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book 1, Wild Lavender hooked me. I had to know more and see what would happen with Claire. Book 2, this book. Most definitely didn’t see the plot twist. Talk about a roller coaster of emotions from chuckling at some of the banter to my heart racing at times. The journey that Claire had to endure and become stronger from it was heart breaking and hopeful. Not to mention that she still had and won the heart of her beloved. Truly masterfully written and beautifully done. Definitely recommend reading.
‿~➳~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~➳~‿
~ AMAZON ~
From San Diego, where I met my Montanan husband, to San Francisco, where I married him, to Chicago, where the twins were born…this Michigander wanderer-at-heart settled once and for all in Northern Virginia. Here, I continue to write, work, and play.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210210016-in-the-midst-of-omens” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”In the Midst of Omens (The Legacy of Gilgamesh Book 1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1710977912l/210210016._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210210016-in-the-midst-of-omens”>In the Midst of Omens</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20773862.Nicole_Bailey”>Nicole Bailey</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6668109451″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Okay for starters, the map *chefs kiss* love that, I like the meaning for the different words/phrases. I’m not a historical type. But the retelling of Gilgamesh, the women in his life. Just absolutely amazing!! If you are into mythical legends or beings, this is one you definitely need to pick up. It gives a whole different perspective!
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Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Gemstone Massacre series, and I enjoyed it even better than the first! The series is uniquely original and will captivate ages well outside the target range. It definitely felt like a quicker read than I had anticipated, but I do find that happens often with any really good stories. One of my favorite parts about this book was the inclusion. It’s always refreshing to come across an author who can weave inclusion into a story so naturally. The development of the characters is remarkable and made them feel relatable. The story flows at a quick pace that still feels natural. If you are looking for a captivating fantasy read with mythology tied in, this should be the next book you pick up. It is possible you could read as a standalone, but to get the full experience and guarantee you won’t get lost in the details, it’s best to pick up the first in the series. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to see what the author has in store for us next!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Gemstone Massacre series. This is an incredible dark fantasy read full of action, adventure, danger, magic, corruption, friendship, gemstones, magical lands and the fight between good and evil.
I do highly recommend reading theses books in order as this book follows the first and with a complex storyline and loads of characters you do need to read them in order so you can follow the story without getting lost.
This author does an incredible job of weaving a magical tale which keeps the reader gripped till the end. This is also a book where the characters are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Which was unique and the author does a great job of using this book to educate people about that community as well as being an entertaining, magical journey.
Amy is struggling with knowing who to turn to and trust. With the corrupt council hunting magical beings things needs to change. Amy needs the stand up and be a leader for the sake of everyone but is she strong enough to do that?
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amy’s Betrayal is Book 2 in the Gemstone Massacre Series. It is a fantasy mythology with danger, drama, action, magic, shifters, paranormal elements, friendship, violence, and good versus evil. This book picks up events and characters that were introduced in the first book, so I highly recommend you read it first. This story continues with the adventure of Amy and Opal. Amy has realized that she and Opal have more in common than she realized. She wants to stop Opal from destroying everything in their realm and decides to fight her. Will she have what it takes to stop her and be able to do so at all costs? The author does a great job of pulling you into the story with vivid scene descriptions and imaginative storytelling. The cast of characters is eclectic, including characters that are LGBTQTIA inclusive. Looking forward to more by this author.
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I decided to pick this book up because of the college course I took on Mythology. This is my first read from this author but is not my last. I will say that I liked how this was written more so than the actual Epic of Gilgamesh. Only because dang was that hard for me to comprehend. The difference between the two is wonderful and to see it written as more of the male to male romance you assume when reading the original is breathtaking.
COVER REVEAL 
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Amy’s Betrayal is Book 2 in the Gemstone Massacre series….very intriguing story, so much going on, drama, action, danger and magic….I really enjoyed this story. I very highly recommend reading this series from the beginning as you are picking up after Book 1. If you are a lover of paranormal fantasy like I am this is a great series to pick up.
Amy is trying to lay low….and trying to stay alive and out of the sights of Opal. What Amy is to realize..she is a bit like Opal and wants nothing to do with that except to stop Opal from causing chaos and harm. Will Amy be able to overcome Opal when it counts…
This is a great urban fantasy….highly recommend and looking forward to what Julia has in store next!!
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Amy’s Betrayal is Book 2 of the Gemstone Massacre Series. If you have not read Book 1, you must read that first. This story picks up pretty much where Book 1 ended. Amy and Naru are fleeing and Amy is separated from Dusk and Garnet. Amy finds herself in a bind and must call on an ally but it goes haywire. This story is very engaging. Lots of events are happening and lots of characters. You really must focus. The plot is very detailed and the world-building continues to be fantastic. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. There is great emotional payoff. This was a delightful book 2.
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
After getting to read book one, I was thrilled to be able to check out book 2 and continue to see how the story unfolds. The author continues to create an amazing story with non-stop action and continues to draw you into the story. It was great getting to see where all of the different characters are and to see the continued character development for them. Dusk is struggling with how he perceives Amy betraying him, while Amy is starting to see how she and Opal have some similar qualities. The conflicts, drama, suspense, magic, shifters, and gemstones to name a few, kept me enthralled. The author continues to paint a vivid picture that makes you feel like you are really in the story. I love that the author took a classic story and has put such a creative twist to it! I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a fast-paced, action-packed drama. I found it pretty exciting. The characters were quite unique in their roles in the story. I found them to be quite diverse. The air of fantasy and paranormal made for a story that I couldn’t put down. I really enjoyed the writing and recommend it for fans of this genre.
This is the first time I have read anything from this author. I really like the cover of the book, however I did have a hard time getting into the story itself. This is definitely a fantasy book with some romance. I honestly just really wasn’t into it at all. I think the only part that I liked really was when I first started reading it and it mentioned that Enkidu was to be raised by wolves and so I was getting into it but then I started reading about King Gilgamesh and how he wanted to be remembered. I feel like I need to restart the book and try to go to the end of the book. Hopefully, I can edit this review later with a completed reread of the book.
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the first time I have read anything from this author. I really like the cover of the book, however I did have a hard time getting into the story itself. This is definitely a fantasy book with some romance. I honestly just really wasn’t into it at all. I think the only part that I liked really was when I first started reading it and it mentioned that Enkidu was to be raised by wolves and so I was getting into it but then I started reading about King Gilgamesh and how he wanted to be remembered. I feel like I need to restart the book and try to go to the end of the book. Hopefully, I can edit this review later with a completed reread of the book.
Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sometimes you can pick up a book in a series out of order and still be able to connect in quickly. This is not one of those. I highly suggest reading book one before you start this one. I did not and it took several chapters for me to get a feel for what was going on.
In addition to that, where this story begins is after a major event, so you should have feelings about what is happening to the characters, but without knowing what they’ve gone through previously and having that build-up, it’s difficult to connect with the characters right away. And that’s not a writing problem, it’s just a reading experience problem because I didn’t read them in order.
There is a lot going on in this story, so you have to pay attention. Although, the world-building is good. The action, drama, and suspense keep things interesting.
If you start with the first book, as I should have done, this will make a great reading adventure for those who love Urban Fantasy with a twist.
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was locked into the story from the first sentence. Like many others I’ve never read The Epics of Gilgamesh so I didn’t know what to expect. However, it was an amazing adventure. This is definitely a story for adults. There are trigger warmers in the beginning of the book so definitely take a look at that before you embark on this journey.
The author did a wonderful job with this retelling. You really get to understand the heart and soul of Gilgamesh and Enkidu. I appreciated the politics and the the tactics it took to rule. If you enjoy mythology, fantasy, and epic tales of history you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
https://www.amazon.com/review/R23HHFXHZQ4RWC/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In the Midst of Omens was written by Nicole Bailey. The character building and world building was good. The book was slow in the beginning, but it eventually picks up the pace. The detailing in the book was good. I personally feel like the the writing style in this book could improve some. I felt like the book was all over the place.
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https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/3920741338
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
King Gilgamesh is the leader of the great city of Uruk, he is God touched and almost invincible and has grand dreams for his future, he wants to rule all the lands between the waters and have his name remembered for all time for his deeds, however, this does mean that he has to create a carefully crafted image and maintain it. Enkidu is a man with no past who wakes up in the wilds and learns its lessons and all it has to teach him, until one day when he is given food by a woman and has to leave and fulfil his duty to the Gods.
King Gilgamesh has more than proven his might and ability to build and maintain the jewel of the land and his home city alongside his beautiful and fierce Queen, but she feels that he is not living in the present enough and works with the Gods to bring balance to King Gilgamesh and this is where he meets Enkidu, although their first meeting does not go quite as planned. As the days pass and King Gilgamesh has to deal with disruptive Kings, skirmishes on the borders and the lingering threats from Gods and Goddesses alike, he is also both frustrated and intrigued by the new addition to his household while also striving to preserve that which he has built both physically and metaphorically.
Behind the scenes though, a Goddess feels spurned and that her plans are not coming to fruition, and this will not do, but will it be the Goddess, King Gilgamesh, or another player in the game who will succeed and gain everything their hearts desire? This is a retelling of a famous legend where court intrigue can both help and hinder lives, while also twisting them in this epic with hints of romance within.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210210016-in-the-midst-of-omens” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”In the Midst of Omens (The Legacy of Gilgamesh Book 1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1710977912l/210210016._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210210016-in-the-midst-of-omens”>In the Midst of Omens</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20773862.Nicole_Bailey”>Nicole Bailey</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6647583687″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This book started off strong with a war and you get to see a bit of the personality of the main character. He seems to have everything but he isn’t happy and wants more. He wants a legacy left behind that will have stories be told and songs sung long after he is gone. The gods want him to be happy and fulfilled so they send Enkidu to fill that void. Then, there is the goddess Inanna that wants to rule Gilgamesh’s kingdom. She has plans all set up until Enkidu comes into the picture. Will she get the throne or will Gilgamesh rule with Enkidu by his side? Before picking up this book I had heard of Gilgamesh in name only. All the stories and mythologies have always fascinated me but his story is not one that I have read. After reading this retelling I want nothing more than to read what inspired the author into writing this story.
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve never read the story of Gilgamesh so I wasn’t sure what to expect but this was a great story. Gilgamesh is a story about a part mortal part God who lives in a city with a palace and wives and many children, he leads a army who is strong and capable and feared by many. This however is not enough and Gilgamesh is set on leaving a legacy for all to remember and cant seem to find happiness with what he already has. The gods want him to find happiness and balance so Enkidu was made to be Gilgameshs other half. Enkidu was raised by wolves has no want of a legacy of his own only to fulfill his purpose. The moment when Gilgamesh and Enkidu touch is the moment a beautiful passionate relationship is born.
The lead up to develop these two characters is definitely a slow burn and is not for everyone, but the character development was excellent.
This story has several different relationship themes including mm mf ff and there are a few trigger warnings that should be heeded. There’s also several definitions in the beginning that are helpful to check prior to reading.
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had previously read one other book by this author and enjoyed it so much that I grabbed this one up without a second thought. The cover is gorgeously intriguing which pulled me in even further. By the time I read the synopsis I was already making room for it on my shelf. The author did an astounding job of weaving the historical world perfectly with romantic fantasy, which I feel is an incredibly difficult task. I appreciate the fact that they included content warnings at the beginning so that no one is caught off guard. Something else that I absolutely love is that they included not only a glossary but a map to make it a little easier imagining the world as they wrote it. Even if you aren’t familiar with The Epic of Gilgamesh, this book will still blow you away. It starts off a little slow but definitely speeds up into more action and spice. I highly recommend picking up this first book The Legacy of Gilgamesh series because I have a feeling the second book is going to be a knockout!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In the Midst of Omens By Nicole Bailey
5 Stars
The cover of this book caught me, and I love it. Now for the story part. I have never heard the story of Gilgamesh and this is to be a retelling or basically based off his story. I felt it was slow at first and it is very much into world building (which I love btw). Gilgamesh is the king of Uruk, has mortal and god blood and because of this he is very powerful, strong, and wins all the time. Then you have Enkidu who was created by the Gods. I wasn’t very fond of Inanna but I also felt that there should have been more about her and maybe I would of liked her just a little although in my book she wasn’t a good person. Maybe just more to her story. Shamat is an awesome character and I love her!!
I haven’t ever read a book by Nicole Bailey before but I loved how she told this story and am actively seeking out others of hers as well. I also cant wait to read book 2!!
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a retelling of The Epic of Gilgamesh by Nicole Bailey. I love almost everything the author has written but I have an indifferent feeling about this book. I neither liked nor disliked it.
The world-building is wonderful, and the characters are described amazing as well. I felt so much of this book was repetitive – this was probably my main issue with the book. I wanted to love the story, but I just couldn’t. The speed of the book changes a few times, which has some to do with my inability to love it. The book starts off pretty energetic with the War but dies down TREMENDOUSLY after the second, maybe third chapter. It does not speed back up until the last 10% of the book.
The book starts off following Gilgamesh, who is 2/3 God, and the King of Uruk. He is also insanely arrogant, selfish, blood-thirsty, and overly obessed with crafting a legacy that withstands time. The Gods create Enkidu, who is a wild man but also God blessed. Gilgamesh now finds himself in a TRUE competition with someone who is not so easily beat. Enkidu was my FAVORITE character and overall aspect of this book.
This book is a part of a duology, and it DOES end on a cliffhanger. I do look forward to reading book two in hopes it is better than this one.