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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy TaleA Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ A Dress Like No Other ~

Absolutely loved putting myself back into my younger middle school/elementary years. Along with the other stories I read at that time, this book would have fit in perfectly to my tastes as a young girl. A strong female royal figure, adventure that is dangerous and necessary, friends that come along the way and last a lifetime, and so much more. This has everything you would expect for a new/novice reader to enjoy, and is definitely an appropriate read.

Princess Zarina is in line for the Royal Advancement Ceremony, a sort of coming of age moment for her. She gets the opportunity to make a deal with a tailor for the event that should make her night even more memorable. She ends up getting the dress, but it wasn’t exactly what she asked for, it’s something even more than that. This is when everything that was right…suddenly starts to go very wrong.

There is family turmoil, loss, and an evil in the world that Zarina must face if she wants to save her Kingdom. She must evolve, and adapt in order to survive in this world. Watching her grow is a magical journey you want to be a part of. The illustrations are so helpful to aid in the story, and they are fun too. Overall such a well written story, that just makes you feel good to read.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Bake Happy (Bake Believe Series Book 3) by Cori Cooper – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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Bake HappyBake Happy by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ A Third Dose of Family Fun~

I will definitely be re-reading this trilogy from the first book through the third. I picked it because I was needing a little bit of a pick me up in life. This was just so much fun, there was laughter, smiles, and “good feel” emotions that just can’t be simulated on your own. Despite not knowing the backstory of the characters, I still found this to be a charming read.

Cat is obviously a baker, and her confidence inspires me to really enjoy my own hobby as well. It also makes me wonder what I can do to make my world a better place. I think this will be a good re-read for the holidays, as there is a lot of family and tight-knitted “ness” between the characters.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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A Quirk of Destiny (Quirk of Destiny Book 1) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et IgnorabimusA Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Zombies…Epidemics…For All Fans of Thrill and Destiny~

There are so many reasons I loved this book. I think the main one is because of my own natural love of the environmental sciences. Reading about them in a fictional setting, from an author who obviously did their homework 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 develops.

He is persistent in the face of obviously challenging situations, making him in my opinion an excellent leader. He isn’t a cookie cutter character, rather his choices really put you into the world in a way that makes you think, “What would I do here?” The plot develops in a way that is shocking, and unique. Seriously loved this over-all, it’s hard to find a story with zombies that you can really sink your teeth into. 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.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Antipodes (Antipodes, #1)Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Travel Based Love Story~

This is not what you would expect, I usually judge a book by it’s cover but this one called out to me. I’m not one to pickup books that look as cute as this one, but boy am I glad I did. This is a Funny, witty, and exceptionally cleverly written story. With an Island-survival-feel, a group of young people have to work together to ensure humanity lives on.

Campbell affectionately known as “Cam” is easily what every reader desires in a book boyfriend. Despite being somewhat aloof, he somehow always hits the mark. His partnership with Laetita is bar none. And as his story progresses, so does the world and everyone else around him. For any Y- The Last Man fans, the characters in Antipodes really remind me of the ones in that comic series. A little dark, a lot of hope, and a whole mess of suspense in between.

I absolutely love the attention to detail that the author provides the reader both biologically and geographically. Coming from someone who is challenged at both I really appreciated the concepts being spelled out clearly. Maybe I am a bit like Campbell this way, haha.

I would love to see this turned into a movie or even a series….If you’ve seen Welcome to Eden on Netflix this feels like a really similar vibe. Of course being a book series you have a lot more to sink your teeth into as the action unfolds. At the very least, a book number two is something I can’t wait to get my hands on. Watching shows and actually sitting down and reading/immersing yourself in a story like this is what every reader years for.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) Audio Book by Tricia Copeland – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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~Journey to Middle Earth with a Fae Queen~

This is my second time through this book. I read the kindle versions first, but when I saw the audible come out I knew I had to try it out. Titania is such a force to be reckoned with. The story is strongly gripping, and I can easily see that Titania and her entourage have done some major development in their adventures so far. 

 

I had a hard time listening through the audible, but I gave it 5 stars because it’s probably personal preference. I found the audio to be monotone, a little difficult to hear the words and not just the lyrical cadence of the narrator. It’s possible that reading through it myself the first read through, I was picturing the inflection going a little differently for Titania. Overall though a very thorough performance on this fantasy journey. 

 

Titania goes through so much, is so level headed, and well rounded. Truly a hero! If you are questioning picking up this series, you won’t be disappointed. Fae, Middle Earth, strong companionship, difficult choices, a kingdom in need of justice only a young heroine can redeem!!! What more could you ask for in a fantastical journey to Middle Earth?

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns)Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Journey into the land of the Fae ~

I just recently started getting into the Fae realm-type stories. I definitely was drawn in by the cover of the book, but then Chloe’s story quickly wrapped me up into her world. This adventure was definitely action packed, full of tears, and plenty of plot twists. Chloe is easily relatable, but finds herself in situations that might make you question how you yourself would respond.

If you enjoy mystery, romance, female heroines, FAE, or anything that has a good story line then this is the book for you! Promise you won’t regret it.

Reviewed by @TaylorKStephenson

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Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse (The Forerunner Saga Book 1) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review By Taylor K Stephenson

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Thorfinn and the Witch's Curse (The Forerunner Series #1)Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Excellent Viking Read ~

As a huge fan of YA and all things fantasy, this is a delicious read. Super easy to pick up, get into the story, and follow Finn around for the whole ride. There is plenty of character building, world development, and the author leaves you with just enough to be begging for the next book to be in your hands. If you are a fan of Vikings, fantasy, YA, dark intrigue, or the like then you definitely will want to check this one out.

Happy Reading!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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

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Slash & Burn (Nite Fire, #4)Slash & Burn by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Dragons, Darkness, Mystery, and Romance~

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

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Return of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 1) by Heidi Vanlandingham – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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Return of the Elf LordReturn of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Fantastical Romance will have you reading through the night~

A read I picked up last week to be honest for the cover (I’m a sucker for good covers!!!) There were a number of other good reviews as well as a very intriguing synopsis. What drew me in though was the characters development. They stand alone really well on their own, but the author does a phenomenal job of bringing them together in a way that is truly exceptional.

This is typically my favorite genre to read; fantasy, romance, a little bit of darkness. What I haven’t read before is the tinge of history you get from this. I have to say it drew me in the way “Vikings” or “The Last Kingdom” did…such a good presentation it had me actually interested in Mythology and the historical context around the storyline.

Overall a great, straightforward read. If you are on the fence it has just the right amount of uniqueness and originality to make you begging for more.

Review by @taylorkstephenson

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Unlock the Angel (Seraphim Angel Order 1) by Calla Zae – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Unlock the Angel (Seraphim Angel Order, #1)Unlock the Angel by Calla Zae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Romance, Intrigue, and Angles~

This is one of my absolute favorite topics, and to see it covered in such an expansive way is such a treat. This definitely isn’t what you would expect at first glance, and has so much to offer. As a reader I found myself quickly immersed into the character’s growth, being able to relate on a really personal level. I love the feeling of getting lost into a good book, and this read was no exception!

The author’s ability to build the world along side the characters is second to none. If you are a fan of angels, a love story, distraction from reality for a bit…this is an excellent choice to pick up. Plus, who doesn’t love a good paranormal romance?!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors by C. L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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Smoke & Mirrors (Nite Fire #3)Smoke & Mirrors by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ Dive Deeper into the world of Dalia~

I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the next book in this series. The author does such an incredible job of story continuation, world building, and character development. This series is definitely binge-worthy! A little bit of crime, a lot a bit of who dun it, and who doesn’t love dragons?! If you have read the first and second books in the series, reading the third is a must. If you haven’t picked up the series, I say again reading this book is a must.

Looking forward to sinking my claws into the next one in the series. What kind of adventures will she get herself into next? Either way…I am along for the ride!

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles, #1)To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~Journey to Middle Earth with a Fae Princess~

I actually started off by reading the second book in this series, and am SO glad I went back to read the first. I won’t share any spoilers of course…Titania is what everyone hopes for in a strong female role. She is relatable, real, and steadfast. I love how as this story is developed, you can clearly see her growth through the struggles that she encounters, in the face of complicated situations.

If you enjoy YA fantasies this is definitely a must read. Fae, Middle Earth, family ties, difficult choices, a realm in need of a heroic young princess. What more could you ask for in a fantastical journey to Middle Earth?

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles, #2)To be a Fae Guardian by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Journey to Middle Earth with a Fae Queen

So I have to say, I actually didn’t pick up the first read, and started this series with the #2 story with Titania. The story is strongly gripping, and I can easily see that the Fae have done some major development in their adventures so far. I will certainly be picking up the first novel so I can see how the Fae Queen’s journey began.

If you are questioning picking up this series, you won’t be disappointed. Fae, Middle Earth, strong companionship, difficult choices, a kingdom in need of justice only a young heroine can redeem!!! What more could you ask for in a fantastical journey to Middle Earth?

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Nite Fire: Chain Reaction (Book 2) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Taylor K Stephenson

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Chain Reaction (Nite Fire #2)Chain Reaction by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~ My Favorite Supernatural Crime Series ~

I am so happy to have found this series. This is out of my typical comfort zone of fantasy, being a crime/thriller series. After reading the first book, “Flash Point”, I just knew I would need to read the second book in the series. And so happy that I did.

This is a perfect continuation of Dahlia Nite’s adventures, along with building the relationships around her. This series is one where you will get so engrosses, it will feel like seeing your old friends again. The author does such a phenomenal job of putting you right there with Dahlia, it almost feels as if you are a crime solving being with supernatural capabilities as well.

Definitely recommend this if you want a fun series to chomp into, and escape into the world of our supernatural crime solving hero Dahlia Nite (and her companions!!!) Happy Reading.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Best Audio Story Yet

The author has done it again!!! I’ve read another of her series, so I was really excited to sink my teeth into another of her fantasy series. With her story, and the narration this is easily my favorite audible. The narrator did an absolutely phenomenal job bringing this story to life. I haven’t ever heard anyone do quite so many different vocals, and do them WELL.

This dark, intense, and highly action packed story is gripping from beginning to end. I picked it up and simply couldn’t put it down. It was a little raunchier than I was expecting, so I had to take some breaks. The main character can be a bit of a rake. I would have liked to see a little more character development, which may be happening in his next adventure.

All in all, I can’t wait to read the second book and find out what happens next.

 

Reviewed  by @taylorkstephenson

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Magic-Price (The Crown of Stones, #1)Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The author has done it again!!! I’ve read another of her series, so I was really excited to sink my teeth into another of her fantasy series.

This dark, intense, and highly action packed story is gripping from beginning to end. I picked it up and simply couldn’t put it down. It was a little raunchier than I was expecting, so I had to take some breaks. The main character can be a bit of a rake. I would have liked to see a little more character development, which may be happening in his next adventure.

All in all, I can’t wait to read the second book and find out what happens next.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Nite Fire: Flash Point by C. L. Schneider – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Flash Point (Nite Fire, #1)Flash Point by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

New favorite fantasy series!!! I can’t wait to read the next. I typically don’t go for books with a cover of a human on the front, but after reading all of the reviews for this one, I’m really glad I took the chance.

Without spoiling anything, the author does an incredible job of character development, as well as world development. I found myself genuinely placed with impossible decisions along with Dahlia Nite. I felt like her moments of having to make choices alone, and with others questioning her motives is super relatable to how a lot of us as readers can feel sometimes, I know it’s true for me.

I seriously can’t wait to read the next book in the series, I’m in for the ride!!! If you’re debating picking this one up, make the leap and you won’t be able to put it down.

Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson

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Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairing Series Book 1) by Parker Fairchild – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairings Series Book 1)Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship by Parker Fairchild
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Super Cute Christmas Romance <3

I don’t typically get into romances…much less Holiday themed ones. However, this one was just too cute to pass up and I’m glad I read it! Olivia and her SEAL are such a sweet story together, from the beginning, middle, to the end. I found myself dreaming along with her, and experiencing a full range of emotions.

If you are looking for some Christmas Magic, pure love, and good feels, this is the book for you!!!

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Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Taylor Stephenson

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Ashes of AldyrAshes of Aldyr by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First I just want to say…WOW. This read came onto my plate at the perfect time for a dark and menacing read during the spooky season. I don’t typically read dark fantasy, but this book seemed to whisper to me in a way I simply couldn’t resist. Ashes of Aldyr by Russell Archey was unexpectedly gripping from the beginning through 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.

Russell 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 of Alda.

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