The world Beyond the Walls is the third book in the Natural Forces series by Jean Gill. It’s an original and creative YA fantasy adventure story. Included in this novel are elements of magic, action, drama and good vs evil. While this genre isn’t one i normally read, I did enjoy it. Gill weaves around the reader a spectacular tale that draws you in while
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Clawsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Clawson2021-03-28 11:01:192021-03-28 19:25:43The World Beyond the Walls: epic dystopian eco-fantasy (Natural Forces Book 3) by Jean Gill – Review by Emma Clawson
Cecily has always had a huge crush on singer Andrew Holiday and she wants to be an actress, so she tags along when her friend auditions for his new video. is a wonderful novel for those who love cute, adorable romances. This novel has elements of romantic comedy and a bit of drama. It’s a wonderfully well-balanced story. It leaves the reader feeling good throughout the novel. This is great for any young adult or for anyone wanting a feel good read
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Clawsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Clawson2021-03-28 10:58:352021-03-28 19:24:53Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Emma Clawson
This is the third book in the series and its just as good as the other two. I’ve always loved fairy tales and the idea of twisting classic childhood stories together with a touch of danger and suspense is amazing. I can’t wait to see what the author does next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laura-Jane Minniehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLaura-Jane Minnie2021-03-28 02:58:012021-03-28 10:43:12Wolf’s Beautiful Beast (The Untold Stories Book 3) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Laura-Jane Minnie
Daisy’s Darkness is the sixth book in the Wheels & Hogs series by D.M. Earl. This is my first read by D.M, so I had no idea of what to expect- but the blurb lured me, so I took a chance and dove in. I hadn’t realised at the time, that this was the sixth book in a series, so I am jumping into it a bit backwards- I was happy to discover that even though I hadn’t read the previous 5 books, it didn’t impact on my reading of this story. It can be read as a standalone, but having said that, I am intrigued enough to want to go back and read them, too. The story is emotional, so I recommend having a box of tissues beside you while you read, as you will probably need them. This is a YA story, so it is full of all the angst and teenage drama you would expect from teenagers- but it also gives a insight into some of the real problems faced by our young ones in today’s society- exploring issues such as bullying, peer pressure, the huge role social media plays in their lives, depression, anxiety, cutting, self-image, self-esteem, eating disorders, fitting in, isolation, loneliness, and dealing with dark thoughts. The story is heart-wrenching and a little dark in places, but the author balances all the heaviness with lighter moments, family love and understanding, and a touch of romance. Looking forward to seeing what the rest of the series holds.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-03-28 02:56:312021-03-28 10:42:46Daisy’s Darkness (Wheels & Hogs Book 6) by D.M. Earl – Review by Angela Hayes
Red’s Tangled Tale by Suzanna Lynn is the retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood and is the second book in The Untold Stories series. I really like how the author had us meet Red, or Rosalee, back in the first book and how Red interacted with Captain Hook. We meet up with Captain Hook in this second book when Red offers to help him search for ash that he needs to help a friend who is being held captive by a wicked witch in the land of Oz (I seriously love all these characters crossing into each other’s stories!). The search for the ash is a dangerous one but Red is the best hunter in the village and happens to have helped her father gather ash even though it was a tragic moment in her life. Enjoy reading the tale! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Betsy Melanohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBetsy Melano2021-03-27 21:04:152021-03-27 22:58:32Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Betsy Melano
I found this book to be really well written and easy to read. It took me a few chapters to really get into but once I did I was in a magical realm of fairies I didn’t realize I would enjoy. I felt as though I was in this beautiful world so visually stunning in my mind. At times I felt like I was the main character and experiencing her challenges and difficulties. This is a coming-of-age story and the character must standup and fight her way to be the rightful heir to her throne. And it’s not an easy ride I can tell you that. I am expecting this to be part of a series of books, or at least I am hoping that it is. I can only imagine that the ride, or flight, gets even better.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Karen Pearmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaren Pearman2021-03-27 18:48:482021-03-27 20:14:02To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland – Review by Karen Pearman
If you love epic fantasy tales that take you to worlds beyond your wildest imagination, then you will love Tricia Copleland’s To be a Fae Queen. Based on a young female Fae in a long line of Monarchs this book took me by surprise. I found myself getting lost in the details of the Fae world and its many realms had me lost for hours. Not only does Tricia Copland paint us the perfect picture she also gives us fantastic Character descriptions. To be a Fae Queen really has it all, action packed trials and battles, young love, friendship, and of course magic. Since I didn’t want to put this book down, I was beyond glad that this was book 1 of this series, i look forward to more from this author and this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2021-03-27 15:59:092021-03-27 20:11:41To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland – Review by Stephanie Corbin
Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager
I enjoyed this book, but feel so old right now. It got me thinking back to when I was the same age as Cecily. What girl didn’t dream of meeting her famous crush? I remember my best friend and I talking about us meeting the flavor of the month at a concert and going from there.
The difference here is Cecily actually got to meet her famous crush and it couldn’t have gone any better. Andrew seems to be a really good guy, not pushing her into more than friendship. But they are so very different even though they are just a year apart and his “friends” are so not what Cecily is used to or need.
I’m very interested to see how this plays out. I’m not convinced he is the right one but I guess we will see.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Robin Rankinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRobin Rankin2021-03-27 14:07:562021-03-27 20:09:28Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Robin Rankin
To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland is a YA paranormal fantasy and it is a story that is easy to lose yourself in. This story has everything you need to keep you enthralled. There is action and danger, lies and deceit, with faeries and a variety of characters and creatures. As Tricia said, “evil lurking in Lower Earth and someone is needed to resolve that issue” and Titania and her army of faeries are just the ones to do it. Tricia’s writing takes you to the most vividly magical places. It is a wonderful start to the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2021-03-27 00:24:482021-03-27 06:03:05To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland – Review by Jenni Bishop
Red’s Tangled Tales is the second book in The Untold Stories series by Suzanna Lynn. As with the first book, this is a wonderful young adult fantasy and is a mash-up of several classic fairytales, giving us a different version of the stories we all thought we knew so well. With Red Riding Hood taking the spotlight in this story, we also get more of Captain Hook, who we followed in the first book- as we are thrust on an adventure filled with magic, drama, wolves, friendship, action….. and more. I love all the intricate, clever, interconnected details that really bring the story/series to life. Taking our favourite classics and giving them a new and highly original spin. I can’t wait to see where we go from here. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-03-26 23:01:482021-03-27 06:02:32Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Angela Hayes
This fantastic book held me captive from beginning to end. I am no stranger to this author but found her to find a new voice through these pages that completely enthralled me. This amazing tale unfolded before my eyes and whisked me away to an enchanted land filled with beautiful detail. This fantasy was everything I was hoping it would be ever since seeing the beautiful cover. It didn’t disappoint except that it ended at all. Simply loved it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Lovelacehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Lovelace2021-03-26 22:02:312021-03-26 22:02:31To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland – Review by Heather Lovelace
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock. This was definitely outside my normal reading and although I had a bit of trouble connecting with it at first once I got there I was really impressed and glad I picked it up. This story was filled to the brim with mystery and twists and just an overall enjoyable storyline. The characters are complex and truly brought this story to life. The storyline had me completely drawn in and I really enjoyed the journey this author took me on with characters that are well developed. I loved the unique storyline and can’t wait to see where this author takes readers next. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking. Four big stars and highly recommended.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Kearneyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Kearney2021-03-26 18:14:132021-03-26 21:32:26Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock – Review by Katie Kearney
I am a huge fan of retold and modern retellings of fairy tales, and I jumped at the chance to review Suzanna Lynn’s “Red’s Tangled Tale”. This is the second novel in “The Untold Stories” series, and it focuses on Red Riding Hood.
After the death of her father, Red is living in the cursed woods with her granny. When Captain Hook pays a visit to her town, Red agrees to help Hook and his band of pirates find magic ash that will help free Hook’s love, who has been captured by a cruel Sea Witch. Facing deadly and dangerous wolves is just the first challenge of her journey. On her return, Red meets a young woman trapped in a tower, and after befriending her, she agrees to help young Rapunzel retake her Crown and title- as Princess Ozma, Princess of Oz.
Lynn’s YA fairy tale retelling is really reminiscent of “Once Upon A Time”, the wonderful ABC television show from a few years back, where many fairy tale creatures come to life. I love knowing the back stories of beloved fairy tale creatures, and imagining what their lives would be like. Lynn helps me complete this task with her new series.
Although I did not read the first novel in the series, I was still able to follow along with the plot. As the characters are already acquainted with any of us who has read a Grimm’s fairy tale, or seen a Disney movie, there is not a lot of familiarization that needs to be done with any of the characters. In Lynn’s novel, Red is spunky, brave and confident and I rooted for her from page one. She is the ideal female heroine and protagonist.
As this is a series, obviously some pertinent plot points are left for future novels, but enough of the story was resolved that I felt satisfaction at the novel’s conclusion. I appreciate being given the oppourtunity to read this novel, and I look forward to reading more of Lynn’s past (and future) work.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin2021-03-26 16:41:122021-03-26 21:31:47Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories) – Reviewed by Erin Clemence
Another superb blending of tales from my childhood! Lycos is mistaken for the beast that haunts the village and he, Red, and Rapunzel are thrown in the castle tower as prisoners. Desperate to know if their daughter, princess Arabelle, is still alive, the King and Queen agree to let Lycos go to the cursed castle to save the princess from the clutches of the beast. What will happen to Red and Rapunzel if he fails? You will have to read this third story in The Untold Stories series to see what becomes of our three travelers and to the kingdom under a cursed spell. I have really enjoyed this series and am anxious for the fourth book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Terri Jo McAllisterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTerri Jo McAllister2021-03-26 16:15:272021-03-26 16:18:36Wolf’s Beautiful Beast (The Untold Stories Book 3) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Terri Jo McAllister
I enjoyed this book. It is the second book in this series which is just as great as the first one. I highly suggest that you read the first book as well. This is a well developed story where the author’s attention to details made me feel part of the story. This is an engaging story that has relatable characters. Cecily feels that she has it all, a great job, a best friend and a boyfriend. What will happen when her best friend starts ditching her? She has never had a relationship like the one she has with Andrew, until now. What will happen to her when her world comes crashing down with one photograph? I enjoyed watching her growth and felt bad for her when life challenges start changing her life. This is a great story that I highly recommend. I am glad I picked up this book and so will you. Find out what happens to Cecily and Andrew. Is their relationship all that she thought it was?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2021-03-26 14:24:312021-03-26 16:13:43In Over Her Head: Lights, Camera, Anxiety (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 2) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Liam Covington is a typical teenager, he goes to high school and has a close friend group, but as hard as he tries to keep a low profile while he is there, the other kids are always messing with him, bullying him and generally making his life awkward, but what they don’t know is that he can see colours all around him, not just normal colours, they are attached to people and they get brighter when he is going to be messed around with, but even if he did tell someone, they wouldn’t believe him anyway.
As usual his day starts with someone pushing him over on the way to school, but today, he is going on the school field trip to the desert and he is hoping that it won’t get much worse, however, when he gets on the bus, he can see the colours everywhere and tries to mind his own business. When they get there and the ranger starts talking about the desert, it’s geological features and the life which teams within it, all the kids are just waiting until they can go and play on the dunes, but Liam is enjoying the tour and talk just as much, he is also reminiscing about the family holiday he used to have as well. He crests one of the sand dunes and breathes in the air, thoroughly enjoying himself until he is drawn to a midnight blue colour smoke which is making patterns in the sand below him, this is when danger strikes and he steps into a sinkhole just as a dust devil appears and mixes in with the smoke and swirls towards him but he cannot move or- avoid the sand swirling around him, he tries to dig into the sand and find some kind of purchase to get away from it all. The next thing he knows is Kenna, a girl he has been trying to avoid comes to his rescue, pulls him out of the sand and offers him some water, his head hurts and he feels exhausted and gritty, but still he picks up the unusual shell and walks back to the bus with his friend supporting him.
Things start to go from bad to worse when his brother and mother find out what happened and are mad at him for not telling them as soon as he saw them, but it gets worse when the colours start getting brighter and start to appear in people’s eyes, not to mention the school gossip which is making his life worse, especially when it comes to Kenna, someone who he swore not to talk to again after their families had a disagreement years ago. Meanwhile, he begins to see what he thinks are hallucinations and the shell he picked up in the desert is either burning hot or covered in the blue designs he can see in his hallucinations, but what happens next shocks him into realising that maybe his hallucinations are real and that they may be able to give him some answers as to why he sees the colours and nobody else does. This is a fantasy adventure which will have you speeding along with Liam while he tries to work out the mystery of why he experiences what he does, while trying to live a life as normally as he can.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-03-26 07:25:362021-03-26 08:44:49Granted: Curse of the Emerald Jinn by Rachel Huffmire – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
5 Stars Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager Can Dreams Come True? Is the first book in The Cecily Taylor Series by Krysten Lindsay Hager is a fast paced YA that once you start you won’t want to put it down till you finish. This is a sweet romance and the authors style of writing and attention to detail along with great characters I felt were relatable and fully developed. Cecily dreams of being an actress someday. She also has a crush on Andrew who is a singer and he’s shooting a video for his next video. Cecily gets an opportunity to be apart of that and finds herself working with Andrew. Her boyfriend becomes quite jealous and things for her start to fall apart. I highly recommend reading this and find out what happens next. This is my first book by this author but definitely not my last.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2021-03-26 05:21:282021-03-26 08:43:39Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
After losing her brothers Titania trained and studied to rule Aubren. But she hadn’t planned on becoming Queen at fifteen. Now with her reign challenged from within the castle walls she must decide what is best for her country. Should another rule in her stead? Or has fate led her to this moment?
Only she can decide a path that becomes littered with choices. Should she marry to shore up her reign? Will naming a successor be enough? And what of the creatures of the deep and a tale of one who can end all evil? Faced with a decision of aiding beings of Upper Earth she must weigh whether to follow her gut or side with tradition.
Can Titania trust that her inner power will be enough to stop the looming evil? Or is she damning them all to a life of darkness?
To Be a Fae Queen is a magical journey into the realm of Middle Earth. If you like fearless heroines you’ll love Tricia Copeland’s tantalizing fantasy.
Download To Be a Fae Queen to descend into a new world today!
Tricia believes in finding magic. She thinks magic infuses every aspect of our lives, whether it is the magic of falling in love, discovering a new passion, a beautiful sunset, or a book that transports us to another world. With two award-winning vampire fictions, she began her career as a scientist. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles from contemporary romance and dystopian fiction, to paranormal and urban fantasy at www.triciacopeland.com.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/To-be-a-Fae-Queen-e-book-cover.jpg1200750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2021-03-26 00:01:072021-10-30 05:03:34To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland
Daisy’s Darkness (Wheels & Hogs Book 6) by D.M. Earl is a YA story and one full of the usual teenage mean girls, drama and angst and so much more. DM is a new author to me, so I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I didn’t feel like it mattered tall that much in the grand scheme of things. It is an emotional and hard hitting read but DM does not shy away from the telling. The story shares some major issues that YA’s face in today’s world such as bullying and abuse, eating disorders and suicide and other mental health issues so be aware in case of triggers.
You are going to want to hit out at the mean biatches and take them down whilst gathering Daisy and her friends into a safety bubble full of hugs and love.
We are introduced to the character of Red in The Hook’s Little Mermaid. The character of Red comes off as a brave girl, who has just lost her father . She develops a deep bond with Hook in a brief time. In this book, we get to know more about Red ,her encounter with Hook and their journey together into the forest. Red is a fearless girl, who dons a red cloak .She is a hunter who goes into the deep forest to find fur and ash, and trades them to the bartenders and the pirates to get a good price, to feed her family. Red is determined to hunt down her father’s killer , whom the wolves took out. Captain Hook is in search of the Ash, to battle the kraken in the deep seas. Together they journey into the forest and the fairy tale takes a twist such that another fairy tale is introduced in the story. Rapunzel is introduced and their quest together is exciting. Suzanne Lynn has a good knack of creating this fairy tale mashups, each children’s classic blended with another and a fresh perspective given to the characters we have doted since childhood. I have enjoyed reading this Untold Series so far and hope to see more such books in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2021-03-25 22:06:592021-03-26 08:40:14Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Anantha Rusum
Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series #1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. Hager makes me want to come back and read more. The Cecily Taylor Series is an amazing way to start a series.
Cecily is the shy girl next door type. She wants to be an actress, but isn’t trained. Getting the chance to star in a music video with her popstar crush is amazing. The quote I chose for Cecily is: “Musicians have a way of doing that. I’d probably forget my own name if I met Andrew Holiday. I just hope she stops making passive aggressive comments.”
Andrew is a famous musician. When he auditions in a small town he gets something he’s been looking for. Enter Cecily and he finds what he’s looking for in a girl. The quote I chose for Andrew is: “Maybe that’s why it worked so well. You weren’t trying too hard. I dunno. It just worked for some reason, you know? Like you were meant to be in it.”
Highly recommended for YA Contemporary Romance lovers.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Kimblehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Kimble2021-03-25 20:54:502021-03-25 21:58:36Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Amanda Kimble
Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Krista Vaughan
Cecily has loved musician Andrew Holiday FOREVER. Have you ever had a song speak to you? The artist just seemed to understand how you felt? Andrew just seems to “get” her. Cecily auditions to be in his next music video and she catches Andrew’s eye. Her current boyfriend certainly thinks something is up. Is there a chance her dreams of Andrew could become reality? A beautiful story of what could happen if you just believe.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kricket4078https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKricket40782021-03-25 20:34:362021-03-25 21:57:35Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Krista Vaughan
Cecily Taylor is your typical seventeen year old girl, she has a close group of friends and a cute boyfriend who she loves, she also has a crush on the popstar Andrew Holiday and has for years, but it isn’t all sunshine and she has had people close to her leave and then not talk to her again, so she has some insecurities around it and a bit of a lack of self esteem, but which teenagers don’t have something like that?
Her boyfriend is in love with her, but he isn’t very romantic, but her best friend helps him out when needed and although it is sweet, Cecily would rather he thinks of these things himself on occasion, but he likes to spend time with her, be that on a coffee date at the library, or watching sports with her at home, even if she does fall asleep and misses the whole thing. However, when one of her friends gets an audition to be in the music video which is being filmed in their home town and Andrew Holiday is the one whose video it will be, Cecily is shocked when she asks her to go as moral support and her parents let her, as long as there is an adult chaperone there as well, but if not, then she would have asked to go to the open auditions with her friends anyway, it would be good practice if she wanted to pursue her career as an actress after all.
The next day, Cecily gets ready for school after she finds out that the private audition with her friend has been moved up, the video said they were looking for the “Girl next door” and that is how she looked normally, then she shows up at school and sees what her friend is wearing and she is not so sure what exactly that means anymore, but hopefully her anxiety wouldn’t get the better of her. As the day goes on all the school is talking about is the auditions, all too soon the day was over and they were heading to the playhouse where the audition was going to be held, her friends mum filled out the paperwork and then her name is called, but as she is going through the door, Andrew himself walks out asking about getting some coffee, walks straight past her and makes a beeline for Cecily, much to her amazement and asks he if she is auditioning too, when she replies in the negative, he asks her to reconsider and come in onto the set anyway. All of a sudden Cecily is being asked to be an extra by the director, saying that she has the “ethereal” look he is going for, he then hands her some forms to fill in and asks her and her friend to come back at 4am on Saturday for the shoot.
As she fills in her family, best friend and boyfriend about the turn of events, they are all surprised but really happy for her, however, her boyfriend starts to act weirdly, but blames it on his mum’s health and says nothing is wrong. The next day Cecily asks his what is going on when she eventually sees him, but he is talking to his ex and seems distracted, this continues the next couple of days, it turns out that he has been seeing more of his ex than normal, although the reason is because she has just broken up with her boyfriend and was upset, but Cecily can’t understand it and feels a little upset and betrayed herself, this feeling continues when the same thing happens and they end up arguing. As Saturday turns up and the filming day arrives, Cecily hasn’t slept well and has no idea what to expect, but Andrew puts her at ease and seems to be as nice as he projects, there is something there and their connection seems more than just superficial, but will Cecily follow her dreams of being with Andrew, or will she stick to her loving boyfriend and the small town familiarity he exudes? This is a sweet romance which will pull you along with Cecily as she figures out what her heart desires and makes the choices she needs to.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-03-25 19:45:542021-03-25 21:56:16Can Dreams Come True? (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 1) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
The World Beyond the Walls is the third book in Jean Gill’s Natural Forces series. The series juxtaposes the sterile and highly regulated Citadel with the wild and free Forest beyond – an enticing and thought-provoking fantasy setting. It was great to catch up with familiar characters and meet some new ones as well – I particularly like Jeanette whose curiosity and determination get her into trouble and who knows the value of stories. I really like how this series focuses on bees in the fantasy narrative. It’s very current, with concerns about bee populations dwindling, and also lends itself to an interesting perspective on society and loyalties. This is the third book in the series, and I would definitely recommend starting at the beginning to enjoy the story in order. Gill does recap some important events of the earlier books so it makes sense on its own but the books are all so good you’ll want to read them all! For me, this is a five-star read. I would recommend it to confident teen and young adult readers who enjoy fantasy and nature, particularly those involved in activism.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2021-03-25 16:26:402021-03-25 18:32:53The World Beyond the Walls: epic dystopian eco-fantasy (Natural Forces Book 3) by Jean Gill – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
Mielitta Queen Of The Warrior Bees and Mage-Smith Kermon are back living in the Forest and the Citadel respectively, Kermon is trying to teach the children magecraft while also keeping his dual role as a spy between the two parties, as he is carrying out his plans for the transition test where the children go into the world beyond the walls, the children he is testing are also trying to push the boundaries set by their genders, but they don’t fully know why those boundaries are there, in fact, only two people know that at all and Mage-Smith Kermon is one of them.
When Mage Smith Kermon is disturbed in his forge with news that one of his students has gone into the world beyond the walls and not returned, he is frustrated and annoyed, but he is also worried because of the evil which lies within them, he sends the young student away and has to attend a Council meeting to request permission to do this, however as they took the time to listen to all the opposing viewpoints and make a decision which appeals to all, he finds out afterwards that the other student has gone ahead alone, so now he has to go after both of the students with another mage at his side to be his anchor.
Mage-Smith Kermon gathers the children who have spoken to the two missing students to find out any information about what they had gone into the wall to decide, based on the little he is able to gather, he has a starting point for when he takes his turn to enter the mysterious world, he takes the time to gather provisions and goes to the water gate to connect with Mielitta to inform her of the situation and what he is about to do, including that the student was possibly following the story of Mielitta, however, he speaks to someone unknown instead and they say that they will pass on the message to her, when the connection is cut off, Mage-Smith Kermon is surprised to find where he had thrown some boots containing seeds into the mud at the base of the gate, now there are plants forcing their way through to the Forest, with this new knowledge, he sets off to find his students. Meanwhile, Mielitta and her two friends are being woken up after a long winter hibernation, but the news they receive on awakening is not what they had hoped and it means they need to return to aid another of their friends and the bees who rely on them, in this Mielitta shifts from bee to human and back to help the bees and the humans to communicate while the others help her, while the one with the nature of a bear replenishes his reserves in the way he needs to, but while he is resting in the cave, he has a vision which leads to a way to get back into the Citadel to help Mage-Smith Kermon.
When they follow the vision, two of them can enter the walls, however, Mielitta is not able to, so she decides to find another way in which she can help, but is distracted by her heart and the hurt the walls just caused her, she is prompted by her bees to think of and return to the homestead, however, her steps lead her to the water gate instead and she goes in to help the others in bee form, but she has no idea of the danger leaving the Citadel and heading in the opposite direction to her.
Will the four friends be able to solve the mystery of Mielitta’s history, find and protect the missing students from the evil within the walls and come out of the other end unscathed, or will the duplicity within the Citadel lead to their demise? This is a thrilling final installment to the series and you will not be able to put the book down until it is finished and you know how it ends.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-03-25 16:07:302021-03-25 18:31:54World Beyond The Walls (Natural Forces Book 3) by Jean Gill – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
“Red’s Tangled Tale” (Book #2 of “The Untold Stories” series) by Suzanna Lynn is a new look at the old tale of “Red Riding Hood,” and flips the fairy tale on its ear. “Red” is NOT a victim of the Big Bad Wolf in this tale; she is a strong, fierce heroine who helps feed her local village by entering the spooky Blakx Forest and hunting, including killing any of the ginormous wolves that inhabit the Forest, one of whom killed her father. “Red’s” friend, Captain Jameson Shaw – aka “Captain Hook” – arrives in her village, apparently on a mission to find any aid possible in rescuing his friend, the Little Mermaid, from an evil witch, apparently a sister of King Neptune? He needs some ever-burning ash from the Blakx Forest – the very quest in which Red’s father died. Red leads Hook and some of his pirate companions into the Forest, but what does she find there? Do they succeed in their quest? What else does Red find in the Forest besides the “ash?” Is the white wolf more than it seems? I’d love to tell you, because I LOVED the addition of other fairy tale folks into the mix, but that would spoil a surprising twist in the tale, and I don’t want to include any spoilers. Again, I loved the re-framing of the old fairy tale. I loved that Red was a strong heroine and that a pirate needed HER help, instead of HIS rescuing HER. There were a couple of things I didn’t “love:” This book can definitely be read as a stand-alone, but I feel I would have understood more of the story if I had read Book #1 first, as it addresses how the Little Mermaid was captured. I also didn’t love the overuse of the verb “hissed.” Red and Captain Hook “hissed” a lot of their dialogue to one another, and in a couple of spots it was just glaringly misused. So since I liked the book a LOT, I’ll give it 4.4 stars, which unfortunately rounds down to 4.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sherry Sharpnackhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSherry Sharpnack2021-03-25 15:06:432021-03-25 15:06:43Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Sherry Sharpnack
This is the 3rd book in The Untold Stories series. This is a Young Adult Fantasy novel and is 207 pages. This story follows Lycus. He was cursed to run through Blakx Forest in wolf form. Rapunzel sets him free and he finds out her and Red will be journeying into the forest and joins them. They hear word of a lost princess and Lycus is forced to hunt and kill the beast. But he is captured by the beast and now must make a choice.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Schoolmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Schoolman2021-03-25 14:47:382021-03-25 18:28:57Wolf’s Beautiful Beast (The Untold Stories Book 3) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Heidi Schoolman
This is the 2nd book in The Untold Stories series. This is a Young Adult novel and is 220 pages. This story follows Red as she hunts her father’s killer. Her father was the only one brave enough to enter Blakx Forest. The wolves took him out and now Red is going after them. Enter Captain Hook. He is in search of a rare burning ash but must go through the forest to get it. Together, they make the journey into the forest. This is a great series that intertwines all the well-known fairy tales, but with a twist!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Schoolmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Schoolman2021-03-25 14:44:122021-03-25 18:28:26Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Heidi Schoolman
I’ve read the other two books and was in love, this one was fantastic. I can’t say enough about Melitta’s story. You really do need to read these in order, so if you haven’t go start book 1! This one focuses a lot on the walls and everyone around her, which rounds out the stories very well. I love each character, even the bad ones. They play a great role and are important for each little situation that helps the greater plot. Some of my favorite characters is Verity, and I can’t get into details but she’s boss lol. Please read these in order, if you don’t, you won’t understand everything you need to. It’s fantastic and elegantly written.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Meg Tyrrellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMeg Tyrrell2021-03-25 09:25:002021-03-25 09:38:14The World Beyond the Walls: epic dystopian eco-fantasy (Natural Forces Book 3) by Jean Gill – Review by Meg Tyrrell
Mielitta is now the Queen of the Warrior bees after the battle for the Forest and she and her bees are settling to their new life with two of her friends as the other settles back into life in the Citadel, meanwhile the Council are reporting what happened to the rest of those living within it, while also spinning it in the light of their victory and the fact that those they paint as traitors are still alive, as well as the noble sacrifice of their Chief Mage, what they don’t say is how he died Mage-Smith Kermon is adjusting to life back within the Citadel and he is missing it and his friends greatly, but he spends his first few days back creating the system he needs to connect with them again and while he is completing this task, he learns about the old transition test from childhood to adulthood as he does this.
When Mage-Smith Kermon successfully contacts Mielitta, he is feeling a barrage of emotions and finds it hard to concentrate on the words being said, even though there isn’t much to report this first time, so when a messenger announces that his presence has been requested at a meeting, they cut off the call and he agrees to contact them again when he has more news. Life in the forest continues as they learn the ways of the Forest and its inhabitants, they decide what tasks they need to complete first with guidance from the bees and go out to forage and hunt before finding somewhere they will feel safe as a home base, that is until Mielitta is summoned by her bees to help the hive, but when she arrives, she realises that it is her that needs the helps and so she experiences life as a worker bee to help her to recover from the battle. As the Council meet to replenish their numbers and choose those to replace the ones they lost, they have to adhere to the blood made in the Forest with Mielitta, even though they don’t necessarily agree with it, so they elect people who they feel will fit with the demands, yet still bend to their will, as well as how to commemorate the Chief Mage’s father with an award for going into the walls and helping Perfection to continue with what they find. After that has all been decided, the Chief Mage announces that Mage-Smith Kermon will devise the new transition test and that to do this, he will be going into the walls and at the same time, be the first recipient of the newly created award.
As their lives continue and they all adjust to their new roles, Mage-Smith Kermon enters the wall, but as well as finding the information needed for the new test, he also discovers the more malevolent side to them and when he returns to complete his reports, both for the Council and for Mielitta, something has changed, even though he cannot put his finger on what it is. Will Mage-Smith Kermon be able to continue his double life and still keep his sanity and loyalty intact, or will the web of lies, subterfuge and this mysterious malevolence destroy everything that he, Mielitta and the rest of their group have worked for? This is another journey of secrets, discovery and balance, which propels you along as the revelations come in thick and fast.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-03-25 08:30:142021-03-25 09:35:30Arrows Tipped With Honey (Natural Forces Book 2) by Jean Gill – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
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