Posts

Ghosts of Alda (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 2) by Russell Archey – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Ghosts of AldaGhosts of Alda by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ The Horrors of Alda Continue ~

I have been looking forward to the second book in this series for awhile…and I am so stoked to have gotten the chance to read it! As with the first book in the Obscured Throne series, I don’t typically read dark fantasy. However this series seemed to whisper to me in a way I simply couldn’t resist. Ghosts of Alda by Russell Archey lived up to my expected hype, which was incredibly gripping from the beginning through to the end, I seriously couldn’t put it down!!!

The reader gets transported through several different character perspectives, each one not only haunting but also very well developed. I found myself lost in their tales. You learn more about the evil that is gripping the world of Alda, and the Black Gnarl at it’s center. We find out that the good forces, are being sustained by the Fifth magic, could there be hope after all? The Obscured Throne’s Eldritch Inheritors stand in the way though, they are elusive horrors worthy of any fright night tales.

Russell once again did an amazing job putting you right there in the world of Alda…hang on, because as you read you may find your spine tingling with fear right alongside the humans, dwarves, and elves in the realm of Alda.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Vassal of Magic (The Virus of Beauty Book 3) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Vassal of Magic (Virus of Beauty, #3)The Vassal of Magic by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Teen Wizard Returns ~

First of all, if you haven’t read the first two book in this series, you will definitely want to pick them up!!! C. B. Lyall is such a unique author that tells stories in a way that just sits you right down in the plot and takes you along for the journey. You really feel like you’re in the adventure right along with Wilf, and finding things out as he does. This is the perfect YA for anyone who enjoys Magic, coming of age stories, family drama, or finding identity overtures.

Wilf continues in his quest to be finally free from all the magic that seems to be unwilling to let him go. Unfortunately it looks like he will not be able to return to his “Normal” life as he would wish it to be. What I love about the third book in the series, is watching Wilf attempt to control the magic that he hates, in order to possibly be rid of it for good. It brings up a lot of conflicting feeling for the reader, especially if you err on the side of enjoying magic LOL.

When Wilf finds a piece of the shattered Mages Crystal, he starts to question so many things. The biggest heartbreak is watching Wilf’s affection for Katryna come into question. Their love story is so cute and sweet to watch unfold, and now I’m finding everything I loved about them come into question.

Overall there are so many choices Wilf has had to make. Watching him struggle through forever abandoning his dream to return to “normal” or allowing magic and Katryna to perish *sad*.

Thank you to the author for this incredibly fun series, and sharing it with the world. Lovely characters, fully dynamic quests in a very streamlined easy to understand world, and just wonderfully exciting to read!

Review by @taylorkstephenson

 

View all my reviews

To be a Fae Legend (Realm Chronicles Book 3) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

To be a Fae LegendTo be a Fae Legend by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Journey to Middle Earth with a Fae Legend~

This gripping series continues with Queen Titania’s journey unfolding in her quest to save her people, the Fae. This easily proves to be her biggest challenge yet. There is a legend, that has been hidden in Fae lore that One will essentially have all the power to end evil, for good. Of course, or heroine Titania is on the road headed towards savings her people, could it be her that is fated to wield this power?

There of course is also an evil omen, stating that there are three challenges that she will face on the way to achieving her goals. The development of Titania, and her closest support roles proves once again to enrapture the reader. With their quest pressured against the clock to save her people, Titania really takes her challenges head on and steps into her role as the Legend she is meant to become. Without giving anything away, you will be shocked and thrilled to the ending of the story walking alongside Titania on her journey.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Destiny of Light (Quirk of Destiny Book 3) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Destiny of Light (Quirk of Destiny, #3)Destiny of Light by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~ The Finale in a Gripping Apocalyptic Trilogy~

I highly recommend starting from the first book and then reading the trilogy in order. It appears that the stories are meant to be read in order. If you try to pick up from the third book characters are not re-introduced along with their importance to other characters. The themes appear to be easier to pick up, but you won’t really be able to pick up on the clues intended to lead you to how the demise of the world began in the first place. Regardless, you will certainly enjoy the stories and watching Calum attempt to save the world.

In this final story you will be spun on a journey about Genetically modified foods, the fallout of the human race into tribes and villages, encounter lost people who may have come to care for deeply, leaving you constantly on edge.

There is a group of people known/identified as Genies, appearing to be normal humans in the midst of others, albeit wielding extreme power. Amongst them, or perhaps surrounding them, are a group of elitists that are somehow intermingled in a unique and powerful way. There has been a mutation of the human gene pool, and possibly others genetics have been altered as well, bending the fabric of reality as we know it. This educational sci-fi piece is very unique, and an interesting read.

Our hero Calum is doing his best to help everyone to survive and restore the Earth to a livable state, but the rate at which destruction is occurring is faster than he can overcome it. Read on through the end to discover the truth behind the mysteries surrounding his efforts. What you may find could be very surprising.

If you have ever wanted to read the post-apocalyptic genre, focused more on the sciences and challenges your way of thinking, you won’t be disappointed. This is the final installment of the series and I can definitely say you will be wanting to pick up the first two in the series if you haven’t read it already. …Now it’s up to us…

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty Book 2) by C.B. Lyall Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty #2)The Veil of Corruption by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Reluctant Teen Wizard Savior ~

First of all, if you haven’t read the first book in this series, “The Virus of Beauty”, you will definitely want to pick it up!!! C. B. Lyall is such a unique author that tells stories in a way that just sits you right down in the plot and takes you along for the journey. You really feel like you’re in the adventure right along with Wilf, and finding things out as he does. This is the perfect YA for anyone who enjoys Magic, coming of age stories, family drama, or finding identity overtures.

Wilf continues in his quest for the righting the Magical Realm. Unfortunately he will not be able to return to his “Normal” life as he would wish it. As fate would have it, he is pretty important to righting the wrongs and correcting Beauty as the magical world knows it back to their normal state. He is sort of a catalyst if you will for correcting the undoings that are happening in their world. So whether he likes it or not, he has skin in the game. I absolutely love watching Katryna’s story meshing in with Wilf’s, they are absolutely adorable together, and watching her family try to come to understand their dynamic is interesting as well.

The take on the “Virus” gets explored further in the second book, and how that impacts entities (mainly witches) and their magic use. I haven’t ever read something quite like this before, so trying to understand the author’s message to the reader, and how she gets it there through Wilf and other main characters is very gripping. It makes you think in other words. By the end I just can’t quite accept what has happened to Wilf, and I need to keep reading…thankfully the third book is out, which I just can’t wait to read!!!

Thank you to the author for this incredibly fun series, and sharing it with the world. Lovely characters, fully dynamic quests in a very streamlined easy to understand world, and just wonderfully exciting.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Lucky Stars by Fantasia Yu – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Lucky StarsLucky Stars by Fantasia Yu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~ Forbidden Love Space Romance ~

This is the first book in what I am hoping is going to be a series. If you are looking for a quick, steamy romance, that has a flair of uniqueness to it then you’ve found the right book. The author quickly jumps into the storyline and carries you through what feels like a short-film centered around two moon-princesses. There hasn’t quite been a book like this before, so it was easy to really appreciate the storyline.

The two moon-princess sisters are definitely head-strong, very compassionate, and have minds of their own. Which of course can lead to complications if they are always being told what to do, where to go…and who to love. There are very key characters you will meet, that you will either love, hate, or love to hate. There is quite a bit of sassiness, sarcasm, and definitely some steam. Amidst the tragedy that of course ensues, there is still comedic relief, and an ending you will want to read.

Between the laser guns, moon romance, robots, and space travel this will certainly captivate your interest. You won’t regret giving it a shot!

Reviewed by @TaylorKStephenson

View all my reviews

The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Hawke Family Complete CollectionThe Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ The Hawke Empire Collection ~

Where do I even start? This ebook contains the entire series of the Hawke family escapades: Savage Collision, Tortured Skye, Stone Sober, Building Storm, Tainted Saint, and Steele Resolve. Definitely a series you will want to take your time savoring!

The family is based out of New Orleans. So as you can imagine there is a ton going on for them. Between the entire family, Gwyn really develops each character line in such a splendid way you will not want to miss out (or close your book.) Their adventures include the family business, storms, interfamilial troubles, and of course plenty of dancing. But don’t take my word for it. Pick up either the entire collection, or one of the stories and sink your teeth in. You won’t be able to let it go!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Nite Fire: Exit Strategy AUDIO by C.L. Schneider Reviewed by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

~ A Must Read in a Shapeshifter Fantasy ~

This is the final book in the series, and I have eaten up every single one. Having the audio version available is such a treat! Cassandra King is a phenomenal narrator who does justice to the series. She really plays Dahlia well, making the character come alive in a new way. 

 

As far as the story goes, Dahlia has remained true to her core self. Without giving in spoilers away, she has also evolved into something quite new. Her supporting roles and friends along the way have developed, as well as the world(s) around her. This is such a unique story line, and is such an easy decision to pick up and read. You definitely won’t regret it.

 

I do have to say even the villains/anti-heroes I find myself empathizing with, or at least seeing from their perspective. This is such a nice wrap up to an enthralling fantasy series I know without a doubt I will be reading again. It was also, just a little bit of a shock I was not expecting!!! While Dahlia isn’t the most lovable character, she certainly is inspiring, strong, and extremely loyal. I haven’t met a character or being quite like her yet, and it was such a pleasure to hear her story. Love, love, love this series.

 

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ A Hawke Empire Story ~

I’m not typically one to read romance novellas. But this definitely has me hooked. Jack and Nolan are two very unique and strong characters. They both have character development that just begs to be read and continued.

The story is about a young lawyer, or soon to be lawyer, who is about to take the bar and return to his family’s empire to set into his role with them. He meets a young woman who’s a complete mystery. Needless to say sparks ignite.

I picked this up and read it in just under 3 hours. Super easy to get through and honestly you just won’t be able to put it down. I’m getting the first book ASAP!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Return to Gallanvaig (A Quirk of Destiny Book 2) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Return to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of DestinyReturn to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ A Return to an Epic tale of a World Changed by Genies~

This is the second book in an incredibly gripping trilogy. An apocalyptic series centered around genetically altered food creating mutated humans. There is a return of the evil powers led by a Genie named Balthazar, super evil guy. This is an epic story of world domination and the fight to resist the ultimate downfall of humanity as we know it. The free survivors, the force of good that is left, is all that stands between this evil and ultimate destruction of the human race.

This is a horror novel, meant to set you on edge. But what makes this series stand out is that you are also meant to be educated…whether you realize it or not. And let me tell you, it is a FASCINATING ride. Your accidental education will move you outside of your comfort zone, and into a world you least expected but absolutely needed to be in. This author obviously did their homework, which makes this an easy favorite. From world building, scene setting, and character development you are in for a ride. Calum is a character you can fall right in line with as the plot continues to unfold. In this second book in the series, Calum has definitely matured. He is now super smart, diplomatic, and a little more down to earth than he was before.

If you have ever wanted to read the post-apocalyptic genre, focused more on the sciences and challenges your way of thinking, you won’t be disappointed. This is the second book and I can definitely say you will be wanting to pick up the first if you haven’t read it already. Happy Reading!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Gothic, Dark, Fairy Tale Rendition~

In a lot of ways this didn’t feel like a fairy tale. The writer does an amazing job of taking a fantastical idea and making the metaphor come to life. This felt honestly more like a biography of the women in Seuno, NM and what they have to deal with in order to stay alive. In a lot of ways, just being alive really isn’t enough.

This is such an empowering novel as well. It’s not just fluff and all of the happy endings we expect to see as readers in order to feel empowered. Maria DeBlassie includes the hardship, heartaches, and very real scenes of a young woman growing up in hardship, and what that looks like. Any young woman would do well to read this, because no matter what backgrounds we come from, we all have our own La Llorona’s we have to face in order to enter womanhood.

I will be purchasing a hardcopy of this for sure, and I am so excited to share with other female readers this haunting tale. Mercy’s journey to rebirth includes the grit we all honestly need to chase after our dreams, to never stop looking our demons in the eye and going ahead to live the lives we want to, in spite of them.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Virus of Beauty (The Virus of Beauty Book 1) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Virus of BeautyThe Virus of Beauty by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Teenage Wizard On the Run~

This is the first book in an exceptional Trilogy about a young Wizard named, Wilf Gilvary, and his world. It’s pretty obvious from the start he wants absolutely nothing to do with magic. The start of the story can be a little rocky to follow. Between the disappearance of his father and transition into the magical world. Nevertheless the story is so intriguing you tend to fly through it!

Poor Wilf is just a kid, and is forced into situations where he has to make some more mature choices. This is a good story for any age, as the content is fairly appropriate. And is very relatable to anyone reading the story as well. As such, the tale is very interesting and advances at a steady and enticing pace.

Eventually, Wilf is faced with a deadly virus that impacts the Wizarding world, and the magical folk in it. Between Wilf’s heritage, and his own innate skill set. It is up to him to make a decision on how to save not just those closest to him, but the entire world with the people in nit as he knows it. Wilf does a pretty solid job of navigating through this new and scary world, that he has been trying to resist from the beginning. There is quite a bit of character development, and I am looking forward to reading the second installment!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Curse of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 2) by Heidi Vanlandingham – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Curse of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 2)Curse of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Elf Lord Kingdom~

This is the second book in the Kingdom of the Elf Lords series. The author continues this saga with the very loved characters heavily dipped in Norse Mythology. In my opinion, this story is very well-developed, and a little less confusing (for me) than the first book. All of the background has been set for us to fully enjoy the 9 worlds and characters in them. Very gripping uniquely spun fantasy that transports you once again into a realm you wont want to leave anytime soon.

The author delivers suspense, disappearances, and of course strained familial bonds. In this tale you have shapeshifting, different creatures like; Fae (and dark Fae), wolves, undead, among many others. Of course… there is romance, in a sort of enemies/lovers way and secrets relationships.

Our beloved Emilian being forced to do what he doesn’t want to do, but is obligated to do over and over again. He is easily one of my favorite characters, and I’m always shocked by his choices, he’s not the easiest man to read.

Can Emilien and Hel work together long enough to save the very fabric of the nine worlds, or will they let their humanity lead everything to ruin? Can Shalendra ever find it in herself to accept her destiny and forgive her father? I wasn’t disappointed, and will need to read the next in this series to find out!! In addition to that there are so many other stories by Heidi Vanlandingham I’ve found I may need to add to my reading list. Thank you so much for such an excellent continuation of this series, what a thrilling read!!!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Necrosis by C.L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

NecrosisNecrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ You’re New Favorite Horror ~

This author is one of my all time favorites, after picking up her Nite Fire series last year, I just absolutely love the story-telling, world building, and relationship dramas. Necrosis is no exception. I wasn’t expecting to find a horror, post-apocalyptic read, but when I saw the book suggestion come up I of course immediately picked it up. SO LOVED THIS!!!

The reader is immediately thrown into an emotional state, calling on relational ties. The bond between Amy and her daughter is made so real, it’s hard to not find yourself right there with them feeling empathy for their struggles to survive. So much happens so fast, I feel like I will want to go back and re-read this, as there is such a splendid amount of detail. My favorite part of this is that when mobs come up, the drama carries you through the thrills so fast, you almost feel like you are right there with them out of breath and emotionally charged.

There is a wealth of metaphors for a person’s own reality, which I greatly appreciated. All in all this is a separate genre I feel, from what I normally pick up from the author, and loved it. Which is so exciting. Thank you so much for this zombie horror story, it is super spook and gave me all the feels. My only question is, do we get more?!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones Book 2) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ The Crown of Stones #2 ~

This is the second book in the Crown of Stones series by C.L. Schneider. It took me entirely too long to pick up the second book in this series, but thank goodness I did!!! Ian is back with a vengeance and I am right there with him. He is on a quest to restore all that was lost, and get back what was taken from him.

Ian is one of those lone-wolf type characters that is both real and unique at the same time. He is a tortured soul you just can’t help but root for, he remains true to his character and is a steady rock amidst so much chaos that is occurring in his realm. Now that he has finally come one step closer to understanding the pain and terror he has gone through, it is his turn to become the hero, albeit unwillingly. But he’s not entirely alone, as he rallies together with others who can come behind him on his quest.

A little bit of horror, some violence, spectacular fight scenes, well detailed use of magic and it’s elements, real struggles and awesome character interactions. This series has it all! Thank you to the author who continues to provide awesome tales to devour.

View all my reviews

Ashes Audiobook (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in , /by

~ Super Cute Re-Telling of Traditional Fairy Stories~

This is a super adorable modern day telling of Cinderella. Absolutely love the YA feel, and and character interactions. Ashley is a super adorable kick-ass heroine. She has to deal with haters, a dysfunctional family, and at times self-doubt. When a celebrity lands in her lap she is at least to say thrown off course, or perhaps may choose a new one.

Ashley takes fate into her own hands, and develops her own story taking us along the ride with her. This unlikely tale is riveting, unique, and full of “good-feels.” I like that Harry has a mind of his own, and we get to see what his side of the classic Cinderella story might have looked like. Either way, this modern re-telling allows us such a fun way to experience the tale. Harkins throws us into such a fun spin you definitely won’t be disappointed.

The audio book version is extra fun, Michelle does an unbelievably good job of bringing the characters to life, and keeping you captivated the whole way. You certainly don’t want to miss out on the audio version as you get an additional spark of life with Ashley and Harry’s romance.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Fantastical Viking Tale, Enchanting, Historical, War~

As our young heroes mature along their own story lines, the Agneson clan is wrought in war and epic challenges no one could have anticipated. The hidden folk present a new set of hurdles I really wasn’t expecting to see, but am totally here for. They each have transformation that propels them further into their own destiny’s.

Kara is my favorite character by far, which of course makes this my favorite installment in this saga (at least until the next one comes out…) Each sibling has such a unique role and character, I just love to see how Jay develops them naturally and so independently as well. It can be hard to keep up with names and places, especially if you are jumping in on book #4, but he actually does a really good job of making the distinctions in a way you can follow/remember.

The Forerunner series is an epic tale I am so glad that I picked up, and will definitely be putting these up on display and hopefully sharing with my friends. I can easily see myself re-reading and dog earing the pages (when I buy the hard-copy) to remember the laughter, heartache, and sheer epic-ness of this saga. My only question is…Is the next one out yet?!?

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

On Viking Seas (The Forerunner Saga Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Gripping Historically based Viking Fantasy~

Holy crap he did it AGAIN…this is the Third story in the Forerunner Series. You will definitely want to read these in order. I am a huge fan of Robert Jordans wheel of time series, if he had written about Vikings instead of high fantasy, this would have been it. Not to compare two authors, but for the sake of how much I LOVE the Wheel of Time series, this is a blooming favorite series that I hope continues on.

Finn and his Agneson Clan pick right back up in the midst of their journeys; character development, world building, good vs. evil are even more intense than the last book (if that’s possible!!!) There are plenty more the hidden folk, even a dragon makes an appearance. This is such a superb fantastical twist on Viking history. I’m not big into mythology, but there are quite a few references to Norse Gods intertwined with the humans lives.

Between the spiritual connections, human based rivalries and Politics, family ties, human trafficking, detailed accounts of history, and so much more you really will be able to sink your teeth into this. It can be a little difficult for me to keep up with all the unique names and places, I start to gloss over those parts a little bit. But now with the introduction of Kara I find myself immediately bonding with a character for the first time in this series, which is super exciting!!!

The good thing about this novel especially, is despite the maturing story lines, Jay creates an environment that can be fun and at times silly. Seriously can’t wait to read the fourth book in this series. Thank you for another amazing read!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Vardoger Boy (The Forerunner Saga Book 2) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series)The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Authentic Historical Viking Fiction~

You will want to read these in order. This sequel is the perfect follow up to “Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse”. Jump into this new read, as Finn dives deeper into his destiny. I am 100% terrible with names, places, and understanding history, so to be able to pick up a book that makes history just a little bit easier to understand is such a savory treat.

The author continues this ride with plenty of character building, world development, and plot twists. It almost feels like we (the readers) are on the same understanding as Finn is, and as he grows with his Clan, we too are getting a better understanding of his mission and just how to get there. There are new characters, folk legends, and quests to be had. I love that being a Viking novel, Jay doesn’t disappoint. Between the blood feuds, revenge, oath making, family ties, and the challenges each character faces, this really isn’t a cookie cutter story.

This adventure is super in-depth, each character’s story can swallow you up whole and spit you out right in the middle of a feud. Will Finn find victory against his rivals, and can he and his clan hold their spot in history? If you are a fan of Vikings, fantasy, YA, dark intrigue, or the like then you definitely will want to check this one out.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Jester by Brielle D. Porter – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

JesterJester by Brielle D. Porter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Fame or Family~

Lisette takes us on a wild ride from beginning to end…from first glance at the cover, to the last drop, you are in for such a treat! Her goal…The Queen’s Jester…can she do it? It depends on if she can get past Luc. Lisette is a feisty female protagonist in a political hot mess. I read some of the other reviews and everyone is spot on with this. -5 Stars- for sure.

I would say this is a romance, because of the way you can get sucked into Lisette’s romance. BUT, to me this reads more as a YA Fantasy overall (which is one of my favorite genres.) There is a Magic, and some practicing of magic. I just love how the world development allows for different characters progressing on their own individual paths. Every great fantasy novel does a good job developing the magical undercurrent that all the characters rely on, and the author sure doesn’t disappoint.

As Lisette’s own story unfolds, she goes through abandonment, deciphering between right or wrong (her own moral compass), and all the twists and turns that are involved all along the way. Her world is enchanting, fun, competitive, and a romance that is “enemies to lovers” if you’re into that.
I would absolutely jump on picking up the story again, and can’t wait to read book 2. Thank you for this book!!!

Reviewed by @TaylorKStephenson

View all my reviews

Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex Book 1) by Kristy Centeno – Review by Taylor Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex chronicles Book 1)Tale of a Body Thief by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ For Demon Hunter Lovers ~

I found this to have a really similar vibe to shows like Lucifer and Warrior Nun on Netflix. There aren’t a lot of written stories to include this genre, to the level of detail that Kristy gives us, which is just #LOVE. “Tale of a Body Thief” includes demon hunters, demons (obviously), monks, nuns, a monastery, a heap of investigation intrigue, and so much more you will just have to read to find out.

Rovena is the badass, gothic demon slayer we all wish we could be. She’s already a pretty competent individual in her trade, equipped with some unique abilities to assist her mission. Not only is she capable, witty, and a total force to be reckoned with, the author brings her to life as a real down to earth person.

Along side her trying to save humanity, are her fellow hunters. But can she trust them totally? In the midst of some pretty epic (and graphic) battle scenes, Rovena is forced to use quick and critical thinking. There is so much diversity across the board for all characters. We want good vs. evil to be drawn with a clear black and white line, but that’s not how life works for us, or for Rovena.

We as the readers are guaranteed a journey with this heroine to some pretty unexpected outcomes, a lesson in self discovery, and you might just find yourself questioning your own reality. I just love that Kristy leaves room in the world development to lure you into the next book. You really have to think for yourself, and ask yourself “is anyone safe?”.
Easy to read and understand the picture that Kristy paints for the reader.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Vilification of Aqua Marine (Working Mask, #1)The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Fun Take on Superheroes with a Twist~

I absolutely adore Aqua Marine, her enthusiasm, charisma, and drive make her a very unique character. She handles a lot of difficult situations in a very believable way. She’s the kind of down to earth, balanced girl every reader yearns to follow. Her journey through young adulthood, and finding herself through the obstacles presented to her are entrancing.

Megan Mackie’s first book in the Working Mask series will leave you itching for more. As Aqua’s story develops, so does her talent and the relationships closest to her. She’s so sassy I found myself laughing out loud and groaning in frustration right along side her. Megan puts you right into the world, and immediately immerses you into diabolical plans that will have you questioning everything. Pick this one up and be ready for some action packed fun.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending Book 1) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending, #1)A Veil of Gods and Kings by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~ What’s a Greek Mythology without Love? ~

Very cool retelling of an ancient story. I love picturing stories in a new way, it helps me imagine more of what could have been. I also love the enemies to lovers not being what you would normally expect.

Overall I think this is a very interesting read. Between romance, struggling with authority, and action packed storytelling this classic is a must read. Not my typical choice, but it’s so fun to pick up something new and be pleasantly surprised.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Finding Melodie and The Wedding Special Boxset by Laura Rossi – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Melodie Boxset (Melodie #1-2)Melodie Boxset by Laura Rossi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Sweet, Romantic, and Unforgettable~

This is a boxset containing both books, “Finding Melodie” and “The Wedding”

The first novel in this set is such a nice and honestly charming read. A romantic getaway from your other longer, more intense novels. If you are wanting to pick up a book with down to earth characters, and tasteful romance, this is definitely a quick page turner to clear your mind.

The second is such a perfect and easy to read follow up. It’s honestly really nice having both together like this because it was such a delightful read I couldn’t help but want to read more! It definitely turned out being a bit of a rom-com feeling, which isn’t my typical choice. I’m glad I picked this up and definitely want more of Melodie and Isaac!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Nite Fire: Exit Strategy (Book 5) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

Exit Strategy (Nite Fire #5)Exit Strategy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ A Must Read in a Shapeshifter Fantasy ~

This is the final book in the series, and I have eaten up every single one. Dahlia has remained true to her core self, but without giving in spoilers away has also evolved into something quite new. Her supporting roles and friends along the way have developed, as well as the world(s) around her. This is such a unique story line, and is such an easy decision to pick up and read. You definitely won’t regret it.

I do have to say even the villains/anti-heroes I find myself empathizing with, or at least seeing from their perspective. This is such a nice wrap up to an enthralling fantasy series I know without a doubt I will be reading again. It was also, just a little bit of a shock I was not expecting!!! While Dahlia isn’t the most lovable character, she certainly is inspiring, strong, and extremely loyal. I haven’t met a character or being quite like her yet, and it was such a pleasure to hear her story. Love, love, love this series.

Reviewed By @taylorkstephenson

View all my reviews

Nite Fire: Slash & Burn (Book 4) AUDIO BOOK by C.L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

/0 Comments/in /by

~Dragons, Darkness, Mystery, and Romance~

The narrator did an AMAZING job with this, I was so impressed by their ability to change voices for different characters. It was so easy to hear the differences and follow along with the story. Superb story telling!!!

What a fun ride getting into the next novel in this series. This may be my favorite one yet! Dahlia is continuing to develop not just her own innate talents, but the forces that be around her. Her world is changing, the humans world is changing, as well as other worlds all around her.

Dahlia is such a strong heroine, it’s really exciting to watch her band together with some likely, and some unlikely ties, to do the right thing. She answers to no one, and to everyone. I just love seeing how consistent her core characteristics are, but how capable she is and just how vulnerable she can be when it comes to saving the ones that she loves.

Pick up the fourth book in the Nite Fire series, you won’t regret it.

Reviewed by @TaylorKStephenson

View all my reviews