An enjoyable and engaging YA fantasy story which kept me happily turning the pages. Maddy wasn’t overly pleased with the DNA test she received from her Grams for her birthday, but reluctantly takes the test. She is then shocked to discover that she is one-quarter villain, she didn’t even know it could show up in your blood. She can’t believe the results especially as she always follows all of the rules, from being hyper-aware of traffic laws to following the vague suggestions on posters. Everyone knows that they can depend on Maddy, and that she will always do the right thing in every situation. Maddy wants to discover the truth about her family history but she soon finds herself in the middle of a real-life fairy tale. Suddenly she’s surrounded with magic and mischief but she may also find her HEA that every girl dreams about. Just because she’s a villain by blood doesn’t mean she has to be one, she just has to choose who she will be! This was an entertaining and fun read with an intriguing storyline and quirky characters which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The characters and the setting were brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2024-05-28 16:33:352024-07-10 10:38:53One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This was a fun YA cozy mystery cum fantasy tale. Maddy follows the rules to the book, and stays away from the scissors. Her granny sends her a DNA test on her birthday and well, it so happens she is 25% villain in her genes. She is flabbergasted. And then begins her adventure with her dearest friend Leo who is also pulled into all the circus. Maddy becomes more mindful and self aware and starts doing things more selflessly. It is such a thought provoking tale. A very different kind of a book !
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2024-05-28 16:26:132024-07-10 10:38:47One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Anantha Rusum
I am giving this book 4.5 stars. I really enjoyed reading the first book in this series. It is a good starting point for the whole series. It is a really quick read, a little short. I am giving it 4.5 stars because I feel the author could have gone further with the story line and the characters to make it seems not so rushed. That being said, this is a very good book. It was a great easy read in one day. All the elements are there for it to be an amazing series based off of the start of this book. The mythical world that the author creates really does give the reader a great visualization of where this story takes place. The romance and steam in this book are tastefully done and the story line itself isn’t based just around those elements in the book. I just wanted more and maybe that is what is going to happen with the other books in the series. It did feel a little rushed in the middle of the book, like the author was trying to keep the book at a certain word length or page length. I would have liked to go more in depth but again, this might be fixed in the next book in the series. Either way, it is a good read and I did get caught up in the story which is always the goal. I look forward to reading the rest of the series because it is a great start. Highly recommend to anyone who wants a quick supernatural escape and a book they can finish in a day. Reviewed by: @bbohls
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2024-05-28 07:48:422024-07-10 10:37:41Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Barbara Bohls
Unrequited Love is a cute supernatural romance. The author gives the reader a brief overview of the characters, though the development is a little rushed. Overall I thought it was a good story despite the minor forced scenarios. Jordan, a “Cafe owner” gets annoyed that her ex-fiancé is bugging her every day and blaming her for it. Jordan isn’t quite human which leads to her sensitive things not always being cut and dry. When Cane approaches her with a proposition. He needs her to help with a ceremony, unfortunately for Jordan, it’s the woman that’s currently with her ex. Jordan has some reservations but ultimately accepts his request. Now can they keep it professional. Jordan is beginning to realize that Cane is a good looking man. One she’s been silently pining for. Will they be successful? Will they acknowledge the elephant in the room? Again this is a short story that leaves the reader wanting more for these characters as well as more throughout. I enjoyed the dynamic but I wanted more. I look forward to more by this author in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Beverly Place-Finniehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBeverly Place-Finnie2024-05-27 21:41:132024-07-10 11:08:44Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Beverly Finnie
Elinor’s holiday is nearly ruined when a poisoner targets the king and what’s even more irritating? Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau, thinks to solve the case before she can!
Spinning tales of subtle magic with unexpected twists, she packages satisfying stories that reads like no others. Byrd writes the book you need, not the one you expected.
Described by one reviewer as a “literary glass of bourbon after a long day,” and another: “When I get a Byrd story, I know I’m in good hands.”
Whether it is a Doppelgänger who was once a medieval knight now working in college administration, or an updated Red Riding Hood escaping a post-WWI wolf pack, her characters all feel real.
That Celtic goddess at the pet store? She’s someone you know. A medieval queen fleeing an abusive marriage? You experience her pain and triumph.
With a B.A. in journalism, she worked as a newspaper reporter, covering news, schools, and lifestyle for both weeklies and dailies. She was the first journalist to serve as director of The Forest Heritage Center in Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma.
Her hobbies include reading, nature hikes, and traveling when she has the money. She seldom has the money. Married to a man who reads all her books but with two adult children who never read them. Byrd has cats, which makes her a legit author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/MC2Delicious_Death_purple-1.jpg1200750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-05-27 00:00:012024-06-11 07:50:25Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash
The way this story is told is so different. I kept waiting for the “story” to start but little did I know the author smoothly snuck the story in while I was waiting. Next thing I knew I was half way through the book. I became so interested in what Madame Chalamet was doing and how she does what she does. I enjoyed the secondary characters especially that Archambeau.
This has a really nice flow to the story making it easy to read. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this one and look forward to the next one. I am curious what other powers she has as well as how and why she is doing this for a living.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lisa Helmickhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLisa Helmick2024-05-26 16:08:452024-07-10 10:34:50Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Lisa Helmick
A marvelous book! Truly a unique story. I loved the character development the author greatly displayed. Full of twist and turns with a fantastic ending. Definitely worth the read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelbyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelby2024-05-25 22:39:372024-07-10 11:10:35One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Shelby Wilson
Magic. Suppressed powers. War. Troy is Shinree, a slave. The Shinree are forced from birth to take a potion that inhibits their magic. Magic is considered an addiction and Shinree are told they are addicts. From birth Troy was given reprieve from Magic binding potions. Raised as a soldier trained for battle and educated he is sent to the battle lines with the Queen.
This story followed Troy as he was sent on a special mission by the Queen into enemy lines. Troy just wants acceptance and to feel like he belongs in a world that fears his powers. He finds a lot more than he thought he would on his expedition with a group of soldiers who have their own thoughts about him.
I enjoyed reading about Troy and some of his exploits. I recommend giving it a chance and maybe reading the other books with Troy. This is an extension of The Crown of Stones Trilogy so check them out. Troy’s story reminded me of the persecution people face all the time for their differences. It’s a story of finding who you are, your true purpose, and finding your place with people who fear and hate who you are.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rose McCaskeyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRose McCaskey2024-05-25 10:19:222024-07-10 10:33:04Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Rose McCaskey
From the moment I started reading I found this book to be original, fun and such a refreshing read. The idea that our blood can be used to detect whether or not we are a villain is a fascinating idea and this author has created a brilliant story from that. I thought the characters matched the premise of the story really well too. I became invested in their story and found them to be engaging and relatable. I have read other books by this author and I can safely say this one is my favourite so far!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-05-24 13:33:192024-07-10 10:09:46One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Kerry Baker
Maddy set the genealogy kit next to the computer and dug deep for some real sincerity this time. “Thanks for always remembering my birthday, Grams. You’re the best.” “Oh!” Grams placed a hand over her heart. “You sweet, sweet thing. Please make sure you call me as soon as you get those results back. I want to see what you are made of.” Her laugh sounded like fairy bells. “I will…”
Out of the corner of her eye, Maddy noticed Leo start to squirm. He was probably questioning his life decisions right about now. Instead of a gift, Leo always gave Maddy a day to do whatever she wanted. This was bold because the things Maddy liked and the things that Leo liked rarely ever matched up.
Time screeched to a halt. Maddy’s heartbeat slammed against her ribs so hard it was painful to breathe. “Mom?” “Yes?” Her mom was focused on wiping counters, so she didn’t look at Maddy. Pounding filled Maddy’s ears as her knees began knocking together. “Mom?” “Yes, Maddy? I answered you the first time.” “Yeah, but you won’t look at me.” Her voice sounded shrill. “Mom!” Maddy’s mom finally stopped what she was doing and placed one fist on her hip. “You have my full, undivided attention. What is it?” Words rushed up Maddy’s throat and got stuck there. She swallowed and tried again. “Am I adopted? Is that why Grams gave me this DNA test?”
Maddy—you have…. the blood of a villain.” If Elle had stood up and dropped the mic, those words could not have packed a harder punch. Maddy’s mind was officially blown. She knew it was happening because her thoughts went completely blank. All gone. This was something that had never actually happened to her before, and she wasn’t quite sure how to handle it. She couldn’t form words. She couldn’t move. She couldn’t blink.
One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper is such a fun YA fantasy, winning the way to my favourite of her books, so far. There was so much to love about this clever and imaginative fantasy- so much going on, but in a really great way- with adventure, action, wonderfully quirky & endearing characters, fantastic worldbuilding & fantasy lore, a cute fairytale vibe, magic, teenage drama/angst, friendship, family, 2nd chances, humour, banter, quips, antics, gaffs/blunders, (family) secrets, family dynamics, trials, challenges, emotion, mystery, intrigue, suspense, romance, lessons (in consequences of actions~reprocussions~not giving in to anger and hate~taking responsibility for your actions~making amends~forgiveness), danger, different realms, a journey of discovery/coming of age story, and much more. I loved the references to the various fairytales we all know and love, and love how Ms. Cooper weaved those elements into her storyline in such a creative and original way. It certainly added extra interest to the overall storyline. Very clever. Maddy Hutton isn’t particularly thrilled when she receives a DNA test from her beloved Grams for her 17th birthday, and even though she loves her Grams dearly, Maddy procrastinates instead of just getting the test done- and it takes her mother blackmailing her sometime later, into finally doing it. When the results come back- Maddy’s world turns upside down. She’s One Quarter Villain. What does that even mean? Well, Maddy finds out when she is thrust into an adventure to save her best friend who has been mistakenly banished to another realm. Maddy sets off on a quest to rescue him- but fate throws her a bit of a curveball along the way. Things go awry and Maddy can’t help but wonder if she really is a true villain at heart? What happens makes for a very cute, sweet, fun, and entirely enchanting read. I have loved all of Ms. Cooper’s books, so far- but this one IMO is the best yet!!! I am excited to see that she plans on this being part of a new 5 book series- so colour me one happy little book worm. I can’t wait to see what Maddy and Leo get up to next. Highly recommended to all YA Fantasy readers, or anyone who loves a great little adventure with a touch of magic…… definitely worth the read! Bring on the next instalment! Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-05-24 00:32:132024-07-10 10:08:08One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Angela Hayes
This was a cool story. It’s supernatural and a coffee shop. That makes it fun for me. It’s a short novella that is fast, romantic and exciting. It’s the first of the series and I enjoyed. It’s a quick read with unique characters that really come out in the story. I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings. I couldn’t book this book down. I’m glad it was short because I devoured it quickly. It’s a must read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-05-23 12:39:292024-07-10 10:12:49Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Shelly Kittell
What a fun story. It’s a paranormal cozy which is a fun little area for the YA genre. I found this to be a clean, which is a nice turn for most books. I can recommend this to my grandkids and feel good about it. I sure enjoyed this story. I love this author’s writing. She makes it fun, easy to relate to the target audience and so darn enjoyable. I had a few eye-rolling moments with some flat-out giggles. I loved every moment of it. It was a whole new look to fairy tales.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-05-23 10:51:452024-07-10 10:11:58One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Shelly Kittell
The theme of this book is the power of our choices. Our choices make up who we are ultimately. Hero or villain? Our destinies are borne of our decisions. The main character must go through major personal growth in order to fight for the future she wants.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2024-05-23 07:47:402024-07-10 10:06:13One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Alison Risher
5 Stars Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider
Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story is a fast paced Epic Fantasy that once I started reading I couldn’t put it down till the end. This is the Prequel to The Crown of Stones Trilogy and holy cow this author did not disappoint. This gives us back story on Ian Troy and the other nations fighting along with the Rellan Army. This was everything I expected it to plus more. I’ve read several books by this author and this may top my list of favorites. This story has drama, suspense, magic, adventure and so much more. I highly recommend reading this book and if you haven’t read the Crown of Stones Trilogy I’d recommend reading it as well. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2024-05-23 04:28:152024-07-10 10:05:20Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
This book was definitely a different change of pace from what I usually read. I really enjoyed reading it. I loved the idea of a villain getting a happy ever after. Finding out that you are one quarter villain, after doing everything you are told to do, was quite the shock for Maddy. She starts to question who she is, and what really makes a villain. The back and forth between Maddy and Leo was absolutely adorable. Once I realized it was a YA book, I roped my daughter into reading it with me, and she absolutely loved it. It’s definitely a book for everyone to enjoy. Cori does an excellent job tackling the topics of good vs evil and the topics surrounding it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2024-05-22 22:41:272024-07-10 10:04:46One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Crystal Jimmo
Definitely recommend this book if you’re into spooky stories! The character development was good. We follow along as Madame Chalamet talks to and uses her skills to solve a murder mystery.
Oh what an origin story. I have loved this world since Magic Price. This author never fails to pull you in with their world building. It gives you a much bigger look into the character builds and back stories. And this is the first fantasy series I read with a male lead character. And it does not disappoint.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Marlowhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Marlow2024-05-21 21:03:092024-07-10 10:02:16Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Michelle Marlow
Clear your schedules ladies because putting this book down will not be an option. A twist of fairy tales and reverse perceptions. One Quarter Villain is an interesting concept and a unique tale. I mean who can have a DNA test to find out what percentage of villain they are. When I read this, I knew I had to read this book. It is definitely a thought-provoking tale. That’s what I like about Cori’s stories is that you never quite know what you are going to get, and she surprises me each time. Cori has done it again with quirky characters as well as being fast paced and action filled tale with a fantastical world of magic and beasts. This YA tale is fun and can be enjoyed by all.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-05-21 16:44:152024-07-10 10:23:01One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Jenni Bishop
Unrequited Love is a sexy, sweet, short novella. Jorden is still trying to get over her ex, but it has been hard since he comes in everyday to her coffee shop with his new fiancé. Cane asks her to perform a ritual that involves them touching skin to skin. Will Jorden join Cane in this ritual to determine if her ex’s fiancé can have children together?! Why does Cane insist that it has to be her? If you would like to try a taste of supernatural romance (that is not vampires and werewolves) it is worth the read. I enjoyed every page of this novella; my only complaint is how short it is. I want more! I feel with more volume added to the story the characters would be more fleshed out, but they do show significant growth in the short number of pages we are given. Overall, it is worth the read and can be finished in one sitting.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Callie Lunahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCallie Luna2024-05-21 16:32:442024-07-10 10:22:18Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Callie Luna
Unrequited Love is the first book in the Magic and Heartache series by E.L. Roux. This book captured my attention from the moment I laid eyes on the cover- and then the blurb sealed the deal for me. I could do with a charmed coffee or 100 in my life right about now… Jordan and her friend and business partner, Perri, operate The Top Up coffee shop and café, providing delicious morsels and charmed beverages to humans and paranormals alike. Business is booming and everything should be coming up roses, except that her ex, Nathan and his new fiancée Tiffany, seem to pop up everywhere. Urghh, can’t a girl get a break. Cane is one of her most frequent customers, so when he makes a strange request, begging for her help to do a vision quest, Jordan can’t help but say yes…. Even though it will benefit her ex and his fiancée. But the promise of ‘seeing more’ of Cane is simply too irresistible to refuse. What happens once the ritual starts? Will the simmering embers between Jordan and Cane ignite, or will they fizzle and burn out? No spoilers from me, so you will just have to read the story for yourself to discover how everything plays out in the end… This is a short, sweet, novella length (96pages) romantasy/paranormal romance- with charms, magic, paranormal beings, chemistry, spice, humour, and fun. A cute story, but I wish it had been a little longer, and more ‘fleshed out’ so we got more of the characters background info, magic lore, world-building, and tension. As it was things did seem a little rushed towards the end- but overall it was sweet… The next book ‘Unrewarded Love’ (Book #2) is Perri and Kyla’s story (whom we both meet here)- and from what we get to know of them here, the sparks are set to fly. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-05-21 08:04:122024-07-10 10:00:49Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series Book #1) by E.L. Roux – Review by Angela Hayes
4.5 Stars This story is an engrossing fantasy that pulls you into a vividly crafted world, brimming with intrigue and magic. The characters are richly developed, making it easy to invest emotionally in their journeys. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the writing style is both clear and captivating, perfect for those who love a good narrative drive. While at times the pacing felt a bit uneven, the overall story was thoroughly enjoyable. A solid read for any fantasy enthusiast!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Daryian Lucashttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDaryian Lucas2024-05-21 01:07:282024-07-10 09:59:46Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Daryian Lucas
Maddy is the opposite of interesting. She follows all the rules, colors inside the lines, and never, ever runs with scissors. It’s one of life’s great mysteries that she’s best friends with Leo Romano. They couldn’t be more different if they tried.
On Maddy’s seventeenth birthday, her beloved Grams gives her a DNA test as a present. It turns out, there’s a lot more lurking in Maddy’s blood than plasma and red blood cells.
Cori Cooper lives in the magical Arizona Mountains, which she’s pretty convinced is the setting for all the fairy tales.
Besides writing stories, she adores hanging out with her family, playing board games, hiking and baking, baking, baking. Like Cat’s family, she’s positive Cinnamon Rolls fix everything.
You can connect with Cori on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads and her website – Coristories.com.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/one-quarter-villain.jpg1200811itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-05-21 00:00:432024-06-08 09:52:02One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
This is the first book in the Magic and Heartache series by E.L. Roux. I enjoyed this book. I liked the premise of the plot and I thought the characters were off to a good start; however, I felt that both the plot and the characters were a bit rushed. Granted the book was very short. I would really like to have gotten more back story for both of the main characters (the author does mention at the end that we will get that story later). I’m excited for the next installment in the series…I’m hoping it’s a little more substantial. In the first book, we have Jorden and Cane’s story and it’s really very sweet and heartfelt. This is a fantasy romance and is definitely 18+. The spicy scenes are *spicy* and very well executed. I just wish there was more world building because it really lends itself to that as well as more character development. But I’m excited to see what they come out with for the next installment.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2024-05-20 20:37:592024-07-10 10:26:40Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Megan Rea
This book was a much shorter story than I was expecting, which is a shame because it is one that I could have read for longer. I enjoyed the characters and the story and I would have loved to see both developed even further. I thought the story was a really interesting one to read. The characters were the entire focus of this book and it was great getting to know the more. I would have loved to see more about Jordan and Cane as they are the ones who pulled me into this story. This is a great read and one I enjoyed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-05-20 14:31:422024-07-10 10:24:34Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Kerry Baker
This is a fantastic addition to this series and great prequel. The author’s beautiful writing shines while the story tells us about Troy, a strong minded magically gifted man who has been enslaved by the kind since he was young. His life is difficult but different than others like him, as the Queen has her helping with her dealings but limits, if not dampers Troy’s need to cast his magic which if left undone could lead to disaster.
This adventure shows the many layers to each of these characters as they deal with life as it has been dealt to them and the many obstacles that come their way.
I was immediately struck by the impressive contrast of characters and the amount of detail provided along the way. I think new readers of this series will enjoy this, as would those who have read the other books. There’s plenty of fantasy, mystery and magic to tickle your fancy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Darlahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDarla2024-05-20 13:59:212024-07-10 10:24:20Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Darla Yocom
This is quite an interesting story. I liked the world built here by the author. We have the different lands, tools and then we have the characters. Whoa! Those characters are so diverse! At times I really felt sorry for Troy then he would turn around and surprise me with his actions. I love the crew who went on the mission. Then there is that Queen?! Man I am impressed with her leadership but also appalled by it.
This is a wonderful story. I have not read any other in the series and since this is a origin story I had no problem following along. It makes me eager to grab the rest of the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lisa Helmickhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLisa Helmick2024-05-20 13:36:112024-07-10 10:24:14Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Lisa Helmick
This book was really good. It is the prequel to the Crown of Stones series. We get to see what made Ian Troy into the character he is later in the series. During the war for peace the Queen sends deep into the enemy side. He really wants people to know he can do it and can count on him. Can he do it?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amelia Stansellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmelia Stansell2024-05-20 07:02:532024-07-10 09:57:50Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Amelia Stansell
Troy a Shinree finds himself one of the only shinree allowed to go to war. He is still a slave to the king but not forced on magic blockers. He finds himself assigned to the kings wife Aylagar and assigned to her regiment. He must fo what he’s told and his master is no fan of magic. Finally Troy and 4 others are called up for a special mission into the heart of battle they go with Troy on a special mission only he can be aware of, but their mission goes awry when Lucan their leader dies and what they find among the Langorians makes them question the war they thought they knew. Well done prequel!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2024-05-20 06:46:342024-07-10 09:57:36Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Melissa Saxton
So I had accidentally read book 2 and loved it, so I definitely had to go back and read book one to get a bit more information. Elinor is a fantastic character, she is bold, clever, and not afraid to get into trouble if it means finding out answers. Her interactions with everyone just crack me up, but especially with the Duke de Archambeau. The author creates a very real world with the added mix of the supernatural that everyone treats as regular every day norm. I enjoy that we have the current mystery that the Duke needs her to solve, but we also have the 20 year old murder of her father that I imagine will follow and tie the stories together. Definitely a wonderful read and a great series!
C. L. Schneider delivers, once again, with Troy! It is the prequel to the Crown of Stones trilogy and incorporates the same amazing world building, breathtaking storytelling, and perfectly flawed, realistic characters as the other books! Troy has so much adventure, distinctive magic, suspense, drama, and more. I found the character growth very touching as Ian Troy learns that some preconceived notions about him have changed over the course of the book, as well as some of his own beliefs changing. There are so many emotions swirling around, mistrust, danger, and bloodshed. But there is also a rawness and closeness formed between the mishmash of companions chosen for the Queen’s secret mission. There is a lot of backstory, not only concerning Ian Troy, but also about the other nations fighting alongside the Rellan army against the Langorians. Exactly what I wanted in a prequel! C. L. Schneider is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2024-05-19 21:55:312024-07-10 09:56:40Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Mandy Ott
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