What an exciting fantasy book. A military school in a fantasy realm really is a new one that I’ve come across. A group of boys that grew up together were sent by their parents for survival because resources were slim. There is where the adventure started. This is a pretty fast-paced adventure that will take you for a ride and take you on a gamut of emotions. You’ll feel like you’ve been on a roller coaster ride. A new author and a new type of read leaves me hoping that he’ll write some more and bring some more entertainment to this genre. I enjoyed this story a lot.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-09-08 04:42:042024-09-27 13:24:06Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Shelly Kittell
his is my first book by this author in which I enjoyed reading from beginning to end. This is a young adult story about Joey and his mom. There is not much work for his mom so she sends Joey away to Lipidius. It is a mystical, fantasy place that is full of magic and monsters. This is a nation where the students find that they have something to fight for. What happens with Joey is something you don’t want to miss. He is a great character that any young adult will enjoy reading about and the adventure he takes you on is not one you will soon forget. I enjoyed watching the growth of the characters throughout the story that made it easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced story that is engaging and hard to put down. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this book.
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 Wagner2024-09-05 15:38:102024-09-27 13:15:17Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Thirteen-year-old Joey is in trouble. His mother can hardly feed him, which-because of his small size-is saying a lot. As war moves closer to their little town, his mother’s options for more work are a big fat zero. Desperate, she sends him to a place where he won’t starve, Lapidius. Soon after arriving, however, Joey learns that he and the hundreds of other children aren’t just charity cases. Lapidius is a prestigious military institute that develops specialized skills for combat. But Lapidius is also a mysterious place where Joey learns that the battle for which they are being trained fot is full of magic, malevolence, and monsters. The new students discover a nation found worthy to fight for.
Like the characters in his books, Matt Runals believes that individual freedom is a necessary part of working together. An early entrepreneur, he owned a paintball business as a teenager and competed in paintball semi-professionally. He attended Longwood University getting a degree in History and a Master’s of Divinity from Regent University. Later he worked at Liberty University, where he served as assistant coach and chaplain for Liberty’s paintball team and worked as a code of conduct officer and a class 3 civil rights Title IX investigator with the Dean of Students. After college, he spent fifteen years as a youth minister, mentor, and counselor, focusing on the wellbeing of trauma victims and the spiritual development of teens. Feeling called to serve in the Army he joined as a chaplain, a position he’s held for eight years. The work Runals has done in mentoring, counseling, and guiding those in need has reinforced his strong belief in community involvement and volunteering. In 2019, Matthew’s leadership was recognized when he was nominated for the General Douglas Leadership Award. Runals currently lives in Texas with his wife Dana, whom he met while playing Ultimate Frisbee, and their three children. He hopes that his work with the Army and the heart he puts into his writing will help more people see the promise and possibility in our American heritage.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/lapidius.jpg500320itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-09-05 00:01:342024-09-20 09:03:25Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals
Dark Is The Wood (Enchanted Tales With Dragon Scales book 1) By: Kristin Ward Review by: Susan Ratchford 5 Stars
Such a fun and enjoyable read! Dark Is The Wood is a perfect blend of the fairy tales that are so nostalgic to us, mixed with enough uniqueness to make them new again. It makes it all the more cozy and comforting to read! Gillian is strong, brave, and believable as a character. Ward’s writing style and character development hits the mark without feeling overwhelming and just makes you want to know more. I will definitely be looking for her next book in this wonderful series Treacherous Is The Tower!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Susan Ratchfordhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSusan Ratchford2024-09-04 13:22:042024-09-27 13:02:22Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Susan Ratchford
Dark is the Wood by Kristin Wood is a book that I would consider falling into the young adult fantasy category. Nonetheless, this book was very entertaining, I found myself getting some Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast and Lord of the Rings vibes. Gillian finds herself meeting dragons along with many other fantasy characters and it takes us on a well-written adventure. Gillian goes into the Shadowlands to save her brother when she finds herself being one of the ones that needs sabing when she ends up caught by the son of The Great Dragon. This book has all of the fantasy vibes I like to see in books that are in the same genre! Kristin did a great job at building a world that is detailed and intriguing! She also created characters that are all very interesting. I wouldn’t mind seeing her write books on the backstories of the characters that are listed throughout the book. The main character Gillian is relatable and a great main character. I found myself being pulled in from the very first page to the last, and Kristin kept the romance very pg, and that is what makes this a great ya read! I look forward to seeing what else Kristin will bring us in this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mary E Espinozahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMary E Espinoza2024-09-03 12:50:592024-09-27 12:55:22Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Mary Espinoza
Paige has it all… or so she thinks. Then she’s ditched from her soap opera job and has to follow her family’s advice and do an internship in journalism. At first she’s not too keen but then she finds she’s really good at it and starts to get recognition for it. Is this what she should have been doing all along? Her ex boyfriend was always borrowing money off her and taking her for granted but then he hits the big time and gets himself signed with a record label, Paige meets Victor doing her internship and really likes him but he has trust issues. So who does Paige choose? I loved this one. The relationship between Paige and Victor I really liked and could relate to. I will definitely be reading more from this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Samwayshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Samways2024-09-02 23:35:412024-09-27 12:46:27Falling for a Star in the City, Stars in the City Series, Krysten Lindsay Hager, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, YA, Romance
Falling for a Star in the City is a great YA read; slow burn for sure. Paige’s life has been a bit out of control since her close friend’s death. I love that this book showed grief isn’t easy and that you can’t do it alone. Paige’s friends were supportive and real as she was struggling with life, her acting career, her love life mess, and everything in between. I like that they gave her space while also telling her the truth along the way. Paige’s love life was of particular interest as she was stuck deciding between Viktor and Walker. Both have a hold on Paige, forcing her to make a difficult decision.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Pesekhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Pesek2024-09-02 16:35:092024-09-27 12:48:02Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Megan Pesek
Wonderful book. I was hooked from the very beginning and loved every minute of it. This is the first book in the series, and focuses mainly on Gillian and Roman, but it also shows a lot of creating this world, that the other books will use to expand on.
Gillian grew up much like other kids in her world did. Human and terrified of the Shadowland & its beastly creatures. When a sickness unlike any other takes a hold of their world, her younger brother falls ill with the fatal disease. One night she overhears her mother speaking about traveling into the Shadowlands to find the witches of a coven. Gillian thinks that her brother needs his mother more than his sister and decides to take it upon herself to go search for the witches and hope they can help her brother. Gillian is very headstrong and is unwilling to bend, break or give up attempting to save her brother.
Early on, Roman, a strong dragonborn, finds Gillian. He just wants to keep his dad happy, and he will do anything for him, so when the Great Dragon says he wants to mate Gillian – Roman puts aside his growing feelings and does whatever it takes to deliver Gillian to his dad.
There is such a deeper situation happening that what is originally shown/stated. There are a lot of working parts to the entire plot. While it says this is a book for 18+ I personally do not agree, as there is nothing really explicit in the book. There is one super brief intercourse scene at the very end but personally I think it would be okay for older teens. The entire book was super fun, and I can totally see this being a large, interconnected fantasy series as there are so many directions it can go. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the second book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-09-02 14:18:092024-09-27 12:38:23Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Helen Dawkins
I’ll admit at first I wasn’t sure what to make of Paige and Viktor, especially since whilst we’re at admissions, I hadn’t realised they would be college age but it didn’t take long for me to be drawn into their world! In fact, this book soon became unputdownable and I kept wanting to know more about what would happen to Paige’s career and what was really going on with Viktor! I will have to go and read the rest of the series now!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2024-09-02 10:48:132024-09-27 12:34:14Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Gillian Fawell
I LOVED this book! Every spare moment I had, I’d pick it up and read a few more pages. The cover is beautiful! The characters are interesting, funny, and likable. I made predictions at the beginning of the book and I was wrong about most of them. I was surprised multiple times. I loved Gillian and the relationships she made throughout the book. 5/5 I definitely recommend this!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alyssa McLeanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlyssa McLean2024-09-02 10:25:472024-09-27 12:33:42Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Alyssa McLean
Dark in the Wood is a fantastic young adult fantasy with action, adventure, and romance. Gillian decides to go into the woods to potentially save her brothers’ life. It is dangerous in the woods and forbidden, full of monsters, and old magic. Will Gillian be able to save her brother Rory or even return home alive? I highly enjoyed this book due to all the world building, including multiple Gods to worship.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Callie Lunahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCallie Luna2024-09-02 00:36:442024-09-27 12:40:31Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Callie Luna
Loved this book ! Such a unique story told in a beautiful way . The writing is lovely & there are so many meaningful lines . It’s the unwavering love of family & personal growth for me tbh . Every character has importance & layers in a way a lot of books dont portray , & it’s so impressive . Very mild touches of steam . This author is overflowing with talent & creativity !
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lalihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLali2024-09-02 00:01:372024-09-27 12:40:16Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by LaliLovely
This young adult fantasy is a really great story. The description of the book from the author is “Red Riding Hood & Beauty and the Beast meet Dragons in this fast-paced fantasy about a young woman caught up in a world steeped in danger and all the power and fiery heat of dragons.” This book is meant for more mature teens I have a 17 year old and I would not be opposed to her reading this book. The character growth from chapter one is steady and just reading and watching them develop their strengths and overcoming the obstacles that are thrown their way is awesome. I really enjoyed this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kelli Harperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKelli Harper2024-09-01 23:05:542024-09-27 12:33:04Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Kelli Harper
The world building in the one was amazing! Gillian leaves her home to find a way to help her brother who is dying from a sickness. She overhears her mother talking and leaves in the middle of the night to try and find the witches in the shadowlands for a cure. She is found by Roman and tries desperately to return home but he won’t help. She is to become the mate of his father, the Great Dragon, and he is determined to get her to his father. There are new creatures and new worlds and magic in this book that I enjoyed. Gillian has unknown powers, she is wanted and lusted after by many, and all she can think about is escaping and returning home. This was a great YA enemies to lovers fantasy. It kept me hooked and I hope more is to come!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Audrie Harringtonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAudrie Harrington2024-09-01 22:49:242024-09-27 12:32:14Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Audrie Harrington
This was the first book I had read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was absolutely blown away! It is the first book in the Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales series and what a way to begin. It took me a chapter or two to really get into the story, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. I ended up ignoring quite a few chores to finish this because it was so captivating. It’s a great YA fantasy that will surprise you at every corner. Just when I think I had it figured out, the author threw another curveball at me. There are a great number of details to help build the Dragonborn world, but it never felt like the plot was weighed down with unnecessary details. Gillian is an intriguing character with determination and will of steel. To say that I am waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book in the series is an understatement. I will be waiting as patiently as humanly possible, but three months seems like a lifetime when it’s all I want! To all YA fantasy lovers, don’t pass this one up or you will regret it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2024-09-01 22:33:262024-09-27 12:30:53Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Shannen Kern
This is the second book in the Stars in the City series, and it was just as incredible as the first one, if not more so! Even though this is part of a series, I believe it can be read as a standalone without a problem. You will likely circle back for the first though just for the sheer fact that the author writes a very intriguing and captivating YA romance. It took me a little bit to find my reading groove, but once I did I couldn’t put it down! It’s refreshing to come across a clean romance that has a great plot and well-developed characters that you root for the whole way through. They feel relatable and the author has you invested in them pretty quickly. Paige is a wonderful character with an amazing group of friends. They tell it like it is without sugar coating everything to protect her. If you enjoy slow-burn, clean YA romances, this one is definitely for you! I am excited to see what the next book in the series will bring.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2024-09-01 22:15:262024-09-27 12:29:16Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Shannen Kern
Paige has caught the gig of a lifetime working on a soap opera. Her longterm boyfriend is trying to get discovered for his singing and songwriting. When she is relegated to a reoccurring role and then breaks up with her boyfriend, her parents pressure her into going to school to become a journalist. While looking online she came across an article that featured her ex-boyfriend that mentioned his contract and his first album being about their relationship. Talk about a kick in the gut finding out he made it big and your relationship was the inspiration. Seeing that he made his dreams come true it has her re-evaluating her acting career. While still trying to make it as a journalist she interns for a sports station where she meets a college hockey player named Viktor. The more time they spend together the more their feelings develope. When she finally feels that she is in a good place and moving forward with her life and a new relationship, her ex Walker shows up back in town. Will she and Viktor make a go of it despite their varying differences or will Walker’s sudden appearance thwart their budding relationship?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlisa Wahtomy-Albahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlisa Wahtomy-Alba2024-09-01 21:37:382024-10-23 12:17:06Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
Gillian is on a mission to find a remedy to save her brother. It requires her to go through the Shadowlands and trade her life for his and she is more than willing to do so. What she didn’t count on was becoming a captive of the Great Dragon’s son. It seems that everything she has been taught is only part of the truth. There is a lot more to the stories and she must choose which path she will take. Does she choose the path of loyalty and family? Or the forbidden path that involves a future that stems from all of her newfound information?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlisa Wahtomy-Albahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlisa Wahtomy-Alba2024-09-01 19:48:442024-10-23 12:17:47Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager. This is a young adult sports romance. Its the story of Paige and Walker who are boyfriend and girlfriend. Paige wants to be an actress and Walker is wanting to be a songwriter/singer. Her family finally convinces her to come home and go back to school to major in journalism. She breaks up with Walker and goes home with her tail between her legs. When she gets home she hears thru the grapevine that Walker has gotten a singer/songwriting contract making her feel even worse about herself. She starts interning at a TV station, sports department and meets Viktor a college hockey player. The more time she spends with Viktor the more she likes him but she’s afraid that they have nothing in common. When Walker comes back to town after changing some of his songs he wrote about her and how much he loved her to how much he hates her she is determined to prove to him she has moved on and that she is happier than ever. Will she and Viktor make a go of their relationship or will Walker coming back to town ruin their chances?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2024-09-01 19:07:122024-09-24 19:17:43Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Tausha Treadway
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. This book starts out slow but pulls you in the more you read. Paige is all over the map with her feelings and I attribute a lot of that to her not dealing with her friend’s death and her wanting to please her other people. Paige and Walker have been together for a long time so part of me understood her reluctance to let that relationship go completely. Paige and Viktor start hanging out and I was rooting for these two the entire time but there are definite issues that need to be worked out on both their parts for anything to work between them. This story has drama, angst, emotions, friendships, and great characters. The characters in this book are very relatable. I enjoyed reading this story. I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candida Hopperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandida Hopper2024-09-01 17:15:282024-09-27 12:26:04Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Candida Hopper
Dark is the Wood is book one of The Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales series by Kristin Ward. This book is gonna hook you from page one, and I promise it isntt gonna let go. This is a phenomenal YA fantasy that is amazingly written. I may be out of the age range, but that in no way stopped me from thoroughly enjoying this masterpiece. I haven’t read any of Ward’s work before, but I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on more from this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Finn Cunninghamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFinn Cunningham2024-09-01 16:01:242024-09-27 12:25:42Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Finn Cunningham
Wow this one started really well! It told of curses, old gods, evil gods, a mysterious dark wooded shadowland and ghouls and witches and things that go bump in the night. Human and animal sacrifice are mentioned as well. From the first page it teases a very good story to come… And it didn’t disappoint! I absolutely loved this story!! I couldn’t put it down. There’s so much going on! Gillian enters the shadowlands, discovers she has powers, finds out her parents aren’t actually her parents, meets a dragon in human form, falls in love and has to fight with everything she has to get what she wants. Its just brilliant! it’s a real fantasy you can lose yourself in. I will be reading more from this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Samwayshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Samways2024-09-01 12:29:262024-09-27 12:07:26Dark is the Wood, Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series, Kristin Ward, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, YA, Fantasy
This is the second book in the Stars in the City Series. This is a YA romance which is full of angst, drama and emotion as our main character struggles to redefine herself and deal with all the other complications that comes with being young and finding your way in the world. This book was a captivating read and I enjoyed seeing the character growth of Paige as we watch her change and transform her life.
Paige thought her life was perfect and she loved her work as an actress on a soap opera. However when her job is not longer a safe secure option Paige has to look for other work which leads her to journalism. This job leads her to meet the next potential romance in the form of hockey player Viktor. Their connection is strong but with Paige’s ex trying to win her back what will Paige do? Will she give the relationship with Viktor a chance or will she got back to Walker.
This story is a great insight into the life of a young woman who is trying to succeed in her life and find her place and what she wants. Dealing with emotions around romance is never easy and you can really feel Paige’s struggle as she trys to decide which one( if either) of the guys is right for her. You will find you can’t put this romance down and I cant wait to see what else the author has in store
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-09-01 12:23:332024-09-24 20:02:59Falling for a Star in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Kerry Carr
This book was fun young adult fantasy. I always tend to lean towards YA fantasy when I am feeling down in life and this hit the spot for that. We start the journey as Gilligan goes to try and find a way to remedy her brother. A true enemy to lovers. Also a true YA not like some where it leans more heavily on the adult part.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Marlowhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Marlow2024-08-31 22:58:242024-09-27 11:57:54Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Michelle Marlow
This was a really interesting young adult fantasy romance. I loved the feel of the fairytale stories intwined with witches, dragons, spells and adventure. This is a story about one girl’s need to save her brother and the adventure that follows.
Gillian’s younger brother has becoming ill and is dying from an illness know as the Wasting. After over hearing her mother she knows the only hope for a cure is to find the witches. However they live in the Shadowlands, an area where they are forbidden to go. However Gillian is determined to try and find a cure so she enters the woods where she has heard terrify things reside. When she arrives she meets the son of the Great Dragon who proceeds to kidnap her and refuses to let her leave. What unfolds is a story of adventure, drama, chemistry and people with different agendas. At the end of the day she has a decision to make. Does she return to her family and her duty or does she remain in the Shadowland with the forbidden romance she has found. This was a really unique and interesting read and I can’t wait to see what the author has instore for us next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-08-31 15:26:072024-09-24 20:02:00Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Kerry Carr
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197712787-dark-is-the-wood” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1692812010l/197712787._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197712787-dark-is-the-wood”>Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18149425.Kristin_Ward”>Kristin Ward</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6805680293″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> I was completely immersed in this book from the very beginning. The characters are strong, and the relationships that develop are constantly developing occasionally in ways you at first did not see coming.<br />In a world of two halves we follow Gilliam as she decides how best to save her brother from the wasting, a disease that ravages the mortal world. She travels to the Shadowlands to seek the help of the witches, the Shadowlands holds many monsters including dragon born.<br />Saved from attack by Roman, Gillian is taken away to the Great Dragon and finds out that she herself is not what she thinks. <br />Full of action, emotion, love, distrust, if you like your books to be enthralling and more than a touch of fantasy then this is a read for you. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tracy Ghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTracy G2024-08-31 01:03:082024-09-27 11:58:16Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh
Ooooo this one was a treat. This is the first book I have read by Kristin Ward and the moment I saw “The End” I instantly went and preordered book two so that I could see what would happen next in this world. Gillian has watched her town wither and suffer long enough. When her brother is taken, she does what is necessary to get him back safely and to take his place. Only she becomes caught and sucked into the history she never knew existed but involves her. The Lords who rule the Shadowlands are no more responsible for where they are born than any other and when Gillian finally begins to see past where they are from, she enters a new struggle. To honor her family duty or to honor her heart. What has caused Rudgarde and the Kingdom of Mirynn to be taken over by the wasting? Is the truth behind history the key to saving the children and the crops? I have always been a fantasy girl, and this book had it all. Depth, growth, complex history, forbidden love, and so much more that once I started, I fell into the world until the last page. And that ending is perfect. *Chefs kiss* I cannot wait for book two, Treacherous is the Tower, December 1st, 2024. I’ll see you there to see what happens when Rapunzel meets Dragons, with Sorcha and Draven’s story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Phippshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Phipps2024-08-30 21:41:332024-09-27 11:55:21Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Ayla Phipps
Paige has been appearing on a show with some of her now friends somewhat living her dream, but that dream has been crushed because of one of the regular actors having some major issues and possibly being removed from the show. During her time off the show she decides that she no longer wants to be with her boyfriend Walker who is hoping to become a big singing sensation. Paige loves his music because most of his songs were written for her but she doesn’t necessarily believe he will be a big name anytime soon because she feels he has no ambition. Well how wrong was she, Walker gets signed and changes some of the song he wrote for her to songs about how he hates her and the things done. During her time off the show she takes an internship and is truly excelling in it. That is where she meets one of Hepburn University’s hockey players Viktor. She begins to fall for him the more time she spends with him but does he have the same feelings for her?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Knallshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Knalls2024-08-30 19:17:042024-09-27 11:54:14Falling for a Star in the City(Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager-Review by Heather Knalls
This is an epic YA fantasy that hooks you from the first page. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and I cannot wait for the next in the series to come out! I loved the way Ward developed her characters and drove her plot lines. Gillian’s feistiness and bravery is unmatched and I loved the tension between her and the Great Dragon and the Dragonborns. Ward has woven together a world of magic, fantasy, legends, lore, tragedy, hope, and so much more. This is truly an epic tale and I can’t wait to see it continue on. I couldn’t put this book down and was reading well into the night. If you are looking for a story to get lost in, then pick this one up!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2024-08-30 14:30:332024-09-27 11:54:00Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Megan Rea
Wow… Just wow. I love a good fantasy and this hit the spot.
Gillian- a poor 18-year-old girl who took a medallion from her mom (that was supposed to be for her) and ran off to the forbidden forest to try and find someone to save her brother. She was caught and brought to the dragon king where she was to be his mate and have his babies.
It is a great story with action and cute little moments while Gillian learns about herself and tries to find a way to save her younger brother. There are witches, dragons, dragonborn, and creatures I don’t even know how to categorize. This story is very thrilling and will keep you up all night wanting to read what is next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Debshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDebs2024-08-30 05:58:252024-09-27 11:52:49Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Deborah Joseph
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
