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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Callie Luna

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is the sequel of The Apothecary’s Curse so I recommend reading that first but it can be read as a stand alone instead. Gaelan Erceldoune has been living for hundreds of years and finally has what he believes will end his long life. Instead he finds himself in the catacombs where he discovers a journal from an old friend that decides an Otherworld. Within the journal is a piece of stained glass that takes him into the dreamscape described in the pages. Again Barbara Barnett has crafted a perfect story that mixes the past, present, and future together to bring an epic and engaging tale. It has a great mix of history, fantasy, and science.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Ayla Phipps

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery, history, and more. Once again, the world Barbara Barnett weaves in the pages of this series pulls you in and fully emerges you. Apothecary’s Curse introduces you to the world and the characters, but Alchemy of Glass takes you deeper into the catacombs of who they are and what they must overcome.
It all starts with a journal and a piece of glass. Gaelen was surprised to see a long thought missing piece from one of his own stain glass windows changes everything. Now he must face the consequences of his actions towards Dr. Anne Shaw. Without her help and understanding the world could be doomed for the catastrophic future he’s seen ahead.
Can Gaelen and Anne trust each other? Is the past too much to overcome? What does the future show? This world is just *chefs kiss* everything is so perfectly weaved together and has a purpose even the simplest of details make a difference. Immortality has become too much for Gaelen and finding a cure is truly his biggest desire.

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Shannen Kern

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I hadn’t read anything by this author before, but the cover of this book is beautifully intriguing which made it impossible to ignore. Once I read the synopsis, I knew I was going to love it! This is the first book in the Guardians of Camelot series and it is quite an interesting start. I am a huge fan of all things related to Arthurian legends which made me a giant sucker for this book. I dove right in and didn’t come up for air until I devoured the entire thing! The characters were incredibly well-developed, but Morgan is definitely my favorite. Talia and Taron are magnificent as well. The story flows well and everything unfolds naturally. If this is also a new author for you, don’t hesitate to branch out! This was a fantastic urban fantasy read and I am on my way now to pick up the next book in this series.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Shannen Kern

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had only read one book by this author before picking this one up, but the cover was ridiculously beautiful so I grabbed it immediately! This is the second book in The Apothecary’s Curse series, and I found it even more enjoyable than the first. There is a possibility that you could read this book as a standalone but reading the previous book first would result in the best experience by far. I always love when stories are told from dual points of view as it helps me get in the character’s heads a little more, so this won brownie points for performing that flawlessly! This author has an absolutely astounding way of expertly crafting a dark fantasy that demands your undivided attention from the very beginning. I never wanted to put this book down but did so only for the basic necessities during the day and then ran right back to it. Gaelan is a perfect and unforgettable character for this magnificent book! If you enjoy dark fantasy with some historical fiction blended in, please don’t pass this book (or this series) up. I cannot wait to see what else this author has planned for us!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Finn Cunningham

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Her Sapphire Blade is book one of The Gaurdians of Camelot series by Sarah Biglow. I am an absolute sucker for absolutely anything to do with Camelot and the Authurian Legends. This was no exception, and when I found this I just knew I was going to love it! Morgan was relatable in so many ways, and this was such a wonderfully unique twist to the story and world we all know. I absolutely cannot wait to see what this series has to hold!

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Helen Dawkins

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wonderful book. I was hooked from the very beginning and loved every minute of it. This is the first book in the series, and focuses mainly on Gillian and Roman, but it also shows a lot of creating this world, that the other books will use to expand on.

Gillian grew up much like other kids in her world did. Human and terrified of the Shadowland & its beastly creatures. When a sickness unlike any other takes a hold of their world, her younger brother falls ill with the fatal disease. One night she overhears her mother speaking about traveling into the Shadowlands to find the witches of a coven. Gillian thinks that her brother needs his mother more than his sister and decides to take it upon herself to go search for the witches and hope they can help her brother. Gillian is very headstrong and is unwilling to bend, break or give up attempting to save her brother.

Early on, Roman, a strong dragonborn, finds Gillian. He just wants to keep his dad happy, and he will do anything for him, so when the Great Dragon says he wants to mate Gillian – Roman puts aside his growing feelings and does whatever it takes to deliver Gillian to his dad.

There is such a deeper situation happening that what is originally shown/stated. There are a lot of working parts to the entire plot. While it says this is a book for 18+ I personally do not agree, as there is nothing really explicit in the book. There is one super brief intercourse scene at the very end but personally I think it would be okay for older teens. The entire book was super fun, and I can totally see this being a large, interconnected fantasy series as there are so many directions it can go. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the second book!

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Kerry Carr

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in The Apothecary Series . Even though these books could be read as standalone reads I personally would recommend reading them in order so that you get a complete picture of the characters. Plus I feel that you will be completely captivated that you want to read them all anyway.
This story follows on from the first one. It is a historical fiction mixed with sci fi, mythology, fairies, magical spells and so much more. The combination of genres is really unique and for me it’s what makes these books so memorable and such a good read.
This a journey that will take our character Gaelan on an adventure through the past, into the present and future.
It is a story about choice and the consequences of the choice and decisions we make. Can Gaelan and Anne work together to save the world from a bleak future or will decision and choice that Gaelan make in the past have a disastrous effect on the present and future of the world and everyone in it.
These books are captivating and very thought provoking. I get lost in the story and feel like I am there witnessing everything first hand. The authors writing is amazing that as a reader you get to feel everything from their happiness and sadness to their greatest sense of confusion and grief.

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Cindy Rushin

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book. I have always had an interest in the subject of Camelot and I liked this interpretation of the history of that world. The story was very interesting and I enjoyed reading about Morgan’s journey to becoming who she was meant to be. It was a joy watching her grow and I look forward to reading the next book of her journey. The author created a vibrant world and I look forward seeing more from this author.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Immortal alchemist Gaelan Ercledoune’s story continues. Gaelan discovers a piece of magical glass in his old friend, Aurthur Conan Doyle’s journal. With the help of Dr. Anne Shaw, the apothecary sets out to try to change the course of mankind’s disastrous future.

Review by Terri Jo McAllister
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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Amber Howard

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this story so much. It sucked me in immediately and didn’t let me go. Characters were on point, plot on point and the ending, on point. I cannot wait for the next book. So many questions were answered but there’s a ton still lurking. Hopefully we will learn more in book 2.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Alyssa McLean

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this book! Every spare moment I had, I’d pick it up and read a few more pages.
The cover is beautiful! The characters are interesting, funny, and likable. I made predictions at the beginning of the book and I was wrong about most of them. I was surprised multiple times. I loved Gillian and the relationships she made throughout the book. 5/5 I definitely recommend this!

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging Arthurian inspired portal fantasy adventure. Morgan le Fey lives in modern day London leading a normal life despite her family’s witchy history. Morgan can’t even cast simple spells and when her magic fails to protect her loved ones she believes she’s not a witch. Her Aunt always told her that she was the lost heir of Camelot, but she thought it was just a story. However, when a stranger appears telling her she has a destiny to fulfil she realises it wasn’t just a story. As soon as she steps through the portal into Camelot she feels her magic. In honour of Prince Arthur’s coronation a tournament of magical champions is being held, but Morgan will need to master her skills if she’s to take part. Morgan must decide if proving her claim to the crown and taking back her throne is worth risking her life for. The descriptive narrative brought the magical world of Camelot vividly to life making me feel immersed in the story. The storyline had me hooked and I loved the retelling of the Prince Arthur story, especially with Morgan le Fey being the main character. I look forward to future books in this new series.

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Her Sapphire Blade, Guardians of Camelot Series, Sarah Biglow, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Fantasy, Witch by Joanne Ellis

Her Sapphire Blade, is an enchanting and refreshing take on the Arthurian legends, blending modern-day London with the timeless allure of Camelot. The story follows Morgan, a young woman whose life has always seemed frustratingly ordinary, despite her family’s mystical background. Living in the bustling streets of London, Morgan has long dismissed her aunt’s claims that she is the lost heir to Camelot, especially given her apparent inability to perform even the simplest spells. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when a mysterious stranger appears, insisting that she has a destiny to fulfill in a kingdom she believed existed only in legend.

The novel’s premise—that everything we think we know about Morgan le Fey is a lie—hooks the reader from the start. By reimagining Morgan as a relatable, modern-day protagonist struggling to find her place in the world, the author breathes new life into a character often depicted as a villain in traditional tales. Morgan’s skepticism about her heritage and her frustration with her failed magic make her an endearing and authentic character. Her journey from self-doubt to empowerment is one that readers will find both compelling and inspiring.

Upon entering the portal to present-day Camelot, Morgan’s connection to her long-dormant magic suddenly ignites, setting the stage for a high-stakes adventure. The author skillfully blends the ancient with the contemporary, creating a version of Camelot that is both familiar and new. This Camelot, while filled with the mystical beings and legendary figures we expect—witches, fae, dragons, and of course, Prince Arthur—feels vibrant and alive, a place where past and present collide.

The novel’s plot revolves around a tournament of magical champions, a thrilling backdrop for Morgan’s quest to prove her right to the throne. The tournament is not just a test of her magical abilities but a crucible that will force Morgan to confront her own fears, challenge her beliefs, and decide what she truly values. Each encounter with her opponents, from skilled witches to fierce dragons, is more than just a battle—it’s a stepping stone in Morgan’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of destiny and choice. Morgan’s struggle with her identity and her place in the world is mirrored in the broader question of what it means to have a destiny. Is it a path set in stone, or do we have the power to shape our own fate? The narrative deftly balances action and introspection, making it as much a story about personal growth as it is about magical battles and political intrigue.

The supporting characters, including the enigmatic Prince Arthur, add depth to the story, each bringing their own secrets and motivations. The relationships Morgan forms—with allies and adversaries alike—are complex and often surprising, challenging her and the reader to question the lines between friend and foe, truth

Her Sapphire Blade is a captivating read that redefines a classic legend for a new generation. With its blend of modern sensibilities, magical adventure, and a strong, relatable heroine, it offers a fresh perspective on the Arthurian mythos. Fans of fantasy, magic, and reimagined folklore will find much to love in this novel. As Morgan faces the ultimate choice—whether to risk everything for a destiny she never wanted—readers will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next in her story.

Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Callie Luna

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark in the Wood is a fantastic young adult fantasy with action, adventure, and romance. Gillian decides to go into the woods to potentially save her brothers’ life. It is dangerous in the woods and forbidden, full of monsters, and old magic. Will Gillian be able to save her brother Rory or even return home alive? I highly enjoyed this book due to all the world building, including multiple Gods to worship.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by LaliLovely

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved this book ! Such a unique story told in a beautiful way . The writing is lovely & there are so many meaningful lines . It’s the unwavering love of family & personal growth for me tbh . Every character has importance & layers in a way a lot of books dont portray , & it’s so impressive . Very mild touches of steam . This author is overflowing with talent & creativity !

 

@lalilovely

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Kelli Harper

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This young adult fantasy is a really great story. The description of the book from the author is “Red Riding Hood & Beauty and the Beast meet Dragons in this fast-paced fantasy about a young woman caught up in a world steeped in danger and all the power and fiery heat of dragons.”
This book is meant for more mature teens I have a 17 year old and I would not be opposed to her reading this book. The character growth from chapter one is steady and just reading and watching them develop their strengths and overcoming the obstacles that are thrown their way is awesome. I really enjoyed this book.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Hannah Porter

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is a slow burn continuation of The Apothecary’s Curse( the first book) just like the first. This book is a compelling blend of historical fiction and fantasy. It also excels in creating an immersive setting, filled with rich details and a perfectly woven journey over different time periods. Barnett’s writing is engaging, and her characters are well-developed. It offers a unique and atmospheric read with its detailed historical backdrop and intriguing plot twists, though it may appeal more to fans of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy rather than pure fantasy enthusiasts. Either way I still suggest you read it. It will not disappoint with its unique storyline. I look forward to more from this author.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Audrie Harrington

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The world building in the one was amazing! Gillian leaves her home to find a way to help her brother who is dying from a sickness. She overhears her mother talking and leaves in the middle of the night to try and find the witches in the shadowlands for a cure. She is found by Roman and tries desperately to return home but he won’t help. She is to become the mate of his father, the Great Dragon, and he is determined to get her to his father. There are new creatures and new worlds and magic in this book that I enjoyed. Gillian has unknown powers, she is wanted and lusted after by many, and all she can think about is escaping and returning home. This was a great YA enemies to lovers fantasy. It kept me hooked and I hope more is to come!

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Shannen Kern

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the first book I had read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was absolutely blown away! It is the first book in the Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales series and what a way to begin. It took me a chapter or two to really get into the story, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. I ended up ignoring quite a few chores to finish this because it was so captivating. It’s a great YA fantasy that will surprise you at every corner. Just when I think I had it figured out, the author threw another curveball at me. There are a great number of details to help build the Dragonborn world, but it never felt like the plot was weighed down with unnecessary details. Gillian is an intriguing character with determination and will of steel. To say that I am waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book in the series is an understatement. I will be waiting as patiently as humanly possible, but three months seems like a lifetime when it’s all I want! To all YA fantasy lovers, don’t pass this one up or you will regret it!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Mandy Ott

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Barbara Barnett continues the story of immortal apothecary, Gaelan Erceldoune, first introduced in The Apothecary’s Curse. I felt like this could be read as a standalone, but reading the first book was beneficial in understanding the characters. Alchemy of Glass explores the connections between magic and science, myths and reality, past and present. Written in the same dual time period style as before, Barnett’s writing draws you in and doesn’t let go! Alchemy of Glass has just as much world-building detail as The Apothecary’s Curse and the same oddly lovable, realistic characters. There were so many things happening in this book, from the apparent delirium of Gaelan following his attempt at ending his immortality to the time travel to the medical interventions requested of Anne, but all were somehow connected and none overpowered another. Overall, another great historical fantasy by Barbara Barnett.

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The Secret Aftermath (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Series) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Secret Aftermath: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 2)The Secret Aftermath: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
“The Secret Humankind” is the sequel to the engaging first book, “The Secret Aftermath”. This urban fantasy tale follows Julia, who finds herself in grave danger as someone seeks to eradicate her and all of humankind. Julia refuses to stand idly by and watch as her life and the lives of those she cares for are threatened. But who wants her gone, and why?
“The Secret Aftermath” is a thrilling and intricate book filled with action, featuring alien beings, supernatural entities, humans, and magic. The fast-paced plot is full of uncovered secrets and yet-to-be-revealed mysteries, as well as frustration, fear, desperation, lies, mayhem, suspense, tension, and danger.
If you’re looking for a captivating read that offers something a little different, then this book is for you.
I’m eagerly anticipating more from this series.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gillian is on a mission to find a remedy to save her brother. It requires her to go through the Shadowlands and trade her life for his and she is more than willing to do so. What she didn’t count on was becoming a captive of the Great Dragon’s son. It seems that everything she has been taught is only part of the truth. There is a lot more to the stories and she must choose which path she will take. Does she choose the path of loyalty and family? Or the forbidden path that involves a future that stems from all of her newfound information?

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Finn Cunningham

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark is the Wood is book one of The Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales series by Kristin Ward. This book is gonna hook you from page one, and I promise it isntt gonna let go. This is a phenomenal YA fantasy that is amazingly written. I may be out of the age range, but that in no way stopped me from thoroughly enjoying this masterpiece. I haven’t read any of Ward’s work before, but I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on more from this author!

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Kerry Baker

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is a brilliant take on such a well-known story. They author has found a unique was to introduce a twist to a story most already know the ending of. I loved the host of characters introduced throughout this book. They were varied and interesting, each adding something different to the overall story.
This author is one I am slowly becoming more familiar with and, with each book I add to the collection, the more I enjoy her work. This book is a great fantasy story, set between modern-day London and other world Camelot. I was drawn into the story straight away and thoroughly enjoyed the book.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Naomi McDonald

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, but I feel the story is enriched if you read the first book.
As with the previous book, I was drawn in immediately. The story is engaging and keeps you turning the pages. Superb world-building without getting bogged down by extraneous details. Complex characters. Intricate story line, expertly woven.
A compelling read – definitely on my list of top favorites this year.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Michelle Marlow

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was fun young adult fantasy. I always tend to lean towards YA fantasy when I am feeling down in life and this hit the spot for that. We start the journey as Gilligan goes to try and find a way to remedy her brother. A true enemy to lovers. Also a true YA not like some where it leans more heavily on the adult part.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Felicia Belcher

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alchemy of Glass is a slow burn into the depths of Gaelan’s immortality and his urge to end the “curse” after over half a millennium of life. Dual timelines of his past that changed his chromosomes, unbeknownst to him, until he meets Anne-in present time, a Genealogist. Conan Doyle, Nicola Tesla and Edison also make appearances, which comes together throughout the book of their importance to Gaelan.

Gaelan creates a “bauble” aka Ruperts Drop that is imbued with magic to transport the holder into the future. The bauble is best used within the caves the monks created centuries ago, a room of mirrors set to the Fibonacci sequence.

The future is bleak, it is up to Anne to make the correct decision to save the fate of humanity after a multibillionaire seeks her help to heal his ailing child with stolen tissue from the ” Miracle Man”- Gaelan!

reviewed by @fbelcher93

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Tausha Treadway

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow. This is a great start to the Guardians of Camelot Series that is built around Morgan who is being raised by her Aunt that lives in modern time London. She has been brought up being told stories of her connection to Camelot but she just thinks they are fairy tales. On the day before her 30th birthday her Aunt is attacked and she and her friend are threatened. In the process someone invites her to enter another portal called Camelot and she does. When she does she realizes this is where her powers come to life. When she enters this society and even participates in it and she even has power here. There is magic, witches, urban fantasy, murder and mystery in this fast paced book. I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.

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Alchemy of Glass (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Alchemy of GlassAlchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story of the immortal apothecary Gaelan continues in this historical fantasy sequel. Gaelan visits a mystical place from his childhood, an ancient ruined monastery in the Eildon Hills. Here he discovers a journal written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, describing his journey to a land of fairy castles, magical rivers and filigree trees, the Otherworld. He also finds a small piece of glass from a stained glass panel he made centuries ago, which comes to life in his hands. Gaelan finds himself transported but not to the dreamscape Conan Doyle described. Whilst doubting his sanity Gaelan believes he has traversed a portal into the future. As his past, present and future collide Gaelan must prevent a catastrophic future. I loved the mix of Celtic mythology, magic, fairy lore and science that this novel weaves together. I enjoyed being back with Gaelan and once again the descriptive narrative brought the settings vividly to life. I felt fully immersed in this enjoyable and engaging story. I would personally recommend reading book one first for a better understanding of the main characters backstory.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Kerry Carr

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really interesting young adult fantasy romance. I loved the feel of the fairytale stories intwined with witches, dragons, spells and adventure.
This is a story about one girl’s need to save her brother and the adventure that follows.

Gillian’s younger brother has becoming ill and is dying from an illness know as the Wasting. After over hearing her mother she knows the only hope for a cure is to find the witches. However they live in the Shadowlands, an area where they are forbidden to go.
However Gillian is determined to try and find a cure so she enters the woods where she has heard terrify things reside.
When she arrives she meets the son of the Great Dragon who proceeds to kidnap her and refuses to let her leave.
What unfolds is a story of adventure, drama, chemistry and people with different agendas.
At the end of the day she has a decision to make. Does she return to her family and her duty or does she remain in the Shadowland with the forbidden romance she has found.
This was a really unique and interesting read and I can’t wait to see what the author has instore for us next.

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