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ClareR (5885 KP) rated The Every in Books

Jan 11, 2022  
The Every
The Every
Dave Eggers | 2021 | Contemporary, Dystopia, Fiction & Poetry, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Every would appear to be something of a ‘Marmite’ book. I liked it, but I think I would have liked it more if it hadn’t been like a personal vendetta towards what Dave Eggers in the novel , very frequently refers to as “an e-commerce behemoth named after a South American jungle”. He’s blatantly anti-Amazon, and that’s ok, each to their own. This whole book seemed to be a cautionary tale of big business (particularly the online type), and smart phones (particularly the apps). This last part I can actually agree with: my sons are pretty much glued to their phone screens (although they seem to prefer YouTube, Reddit and Discord to some of the apps described in the book).

The characters who work for The Every are evangelical about their employer - they can see no wrong in their monopoly of, well, everything really. This in itself would throw up every red flag to me - and it does to the main character, Delaney. And when her co-conspirator joins the dark side, it seems even less unlikely that she’ll be able to bring the company down. The more weird and whacky her ideas for ridiculous apps become, the more the company likes them. And that means everyone - the company and the customers. It starts to seem unlikely that Delaney will be successful.

I think that there may well be a follow up to this - it’s left open-ended. Even though I’m a big fan of the open-ended-ending, I really don’t know whether I’ll read the next one (if it comes!), although I should think I’ll have time to decide whether I will or won’t!

Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and the publisher for serialising this.
  
29 of 230
Book
Blackbird Rising ( The Witch Kings Crown book )
By Keri Arthur
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A modern fantasy novel inspired by the King Arthur legend...

For hundreds of years, the Witch King’s sword has been buried in stone awaiting the next hand to draw it.

Many have tried. None have succeeded.

Gwen is the last in a long line of De Montfort witches whose duty it is to protect the sword of all power. But when she returns to King Island to perform the blessing, a mysterious pulse of blue light tells her that someone has attempted to draw the sword. Before she can investigate any further, demons attack. She only survives with the help of a mysterious stranger who disappears as quickly as he appears.

Gwen and her grandmother, Moscelyne, soon discover that minor gateways into Darkside—the traditional home of both demons and dark elves—are being forced open by magic. Even worse, someone is now sending demons after the Witch King’s heirs.

As vital artifacts are stolen by Darkside and the deaths draw altogether too close to home, Gwen and Mo—with the help of old gods and an ancient order of knights once thought dead—scramble to unravel the clues and stop the murderous would-be king from claiming the crown.

If they fail and the wrong hand draws the sword of power, he can unlock the main gateway into Darkside and unleash utter hell onto an unsuspecting and unprepared England....

Another of Keri Arthur’s books I just just loved. King Arthur inspired based in England with some brilliant characters. Finished it quite quickly and can’t wait to start the next! Although it’s been added to a very long tbr pile 😂
  
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Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post

Aug 20, 2022  
Author Margie Seaman shares a lovely scrapbook page for her clean romance/women's fiction novel SOMEDAY BELONGS TO US on my blog. Check it out, and enter the giveaway for a chance to win an autographed limited edition hardback of the book - three winners!

https://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/2022/08/book-blog-tour-and-giveaway-someday.html

**BOOK SYNOPSIS**
It’s never too late to find love on the high seas.

Kate Caldwell is a 72-year-old romance novelist writing under the nom de plume, Desiree Desire. With more than thirty bestsellers to her credit, Kate is considered an authority on romance. Her personal life, however, has been lacking in the love department for a long time, and she has all but given up hope of finding a true, romantic connection. Her latest series, about a rakish eighteenth-century pirate, has been a struggle. Her struggle with her own creative processes boils over on a stormy night, when Captain Edward Peregrine, a pirate of the Caribbean during the year 1721, begins appearing to her as she sleeps. Convinced that Edward is a figment of her imagination, Kate happily accepts his return visits, and the two collaborate on the first two books of the series. Then, Edward suddenly stops appearing, and Kate is frustrated with her publisher’s demands for the next book.

In desperation, she decides to take a two-week cruise with her granddaughter, Ellie, hoping the chance to relax and watch the waves breaking in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean will reset her creative process. Little did Kate know that troubled waters lay ahead or that she’s in for the adventure of her life, and possibly, true love at long last.
     
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Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post

May 10, 2022  
Sneak a peek at the humorous Western historical fiction novel OUTLAW WEST OF THE PECOS by Preston Lewis Author on my blog, and enter the giveaway for your chance to win an autographed copy of the book - three winners!

https://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/2022/05/book-blog-tour-and-giveaway-outlaw-west.html

**BOOK SYNOPSIS**
Accused of cheating at cards on a Southern Pacific passenger train in far West Texas, H.H. Lomax is kicked off the train and finds himself at the mercy of the unpredictable justice of Judge Roy Bean, who calls himself “Law West of the Pecos.” After being fined of all his money, married, and divorced by the judge in a matter of minutes, Lomax discovers an unlikely connection to him.

Against a backdrop of a pending world heavyweight championship bout, Lomax heads to El Paso to interest someone in writing and publishing Bean’s biography. He winds up in an El Paso boarding house across the hall from Texas killer John Wesley Hardin. They despise each other, but Hardin fears Lomax’s straight-arrow Texas Ranger brother and treads lightly around Lomax. Because of Hardin’s crooked connections in El Paso, Lomax gets caught between him and corrupt constable John Selman.

El Paso is becoming the focal point of efforts to host a championship prizefight that everyone from the Presidents of the United States and Mexico to the governors of Texas, New Mexico Territory and Chihuahua have vowed to stop. Calling on his connections to his Ranger brother, El Paso officials and the promoter of the boxing match, Lomax uses his Judge Roy Bean friendship to pull off the oddest prizefight in heavyweight history.

Outlaw West of the Pecos stands as an entertaining mix of historical and hysterical fiction.
     
Kushiel
Kushiel
Jacqueline Carey | 2001 | Fiction & Poetry, Science Fiction/Fantasy
9
9.5 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
91 of 230
Kindle
Kushiels Dart ( phedre’s Trilogybook 1)
By Jacqueline Carey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶

A massive fantasy tale about the violent death of an old age and the birth of a new one. Here is a novel of grandeur, luxuriance, sacrifice, betrayal, and deeply laid conspiracies. Born with a scarlet mote in her left eye, Phedre no Delaunay is sold into indentured servitude as a child. When her bond is purchased by an enigmatic nobleman, she is trained in history, theology, politics, foreign languages, and the arts of pleasure. Above all, she learns the ability to observe, remember, and analyze. Exquisite courtesan, yet talented spy, she may seem an unlikely heroine... but when Phedre stumbles upon a plot threatening her homeland, Terre d'Ange, she has no choice but to act. Betrayed into captivity in the barbarous northland of Skaldia, and accompanied only by disdainful young warrior-priest, Phedre makes a harrowing escape and an even more harrowing journey, to return to her people and deliver them a warning of the impending invasion. And that proves only the first step in a quest that will take her to the edge of despair and beyond.

Well that was a much longer book than I was expecting. I loved it! The world building and characters were so good I did struggle at first there was a lot of information thrown at you but once it was ingrained it was just so enjoyable to read. I enjoy these epic journey books with female characters that are strong and capable instead of whinny and annoying. I think to get the most out of these long massive world building books you have to have some patience and not force yourself to enjoy them. Definitely looking forward to more.
  
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Merissa (12926 KP) rated Capturing Fate (Fatal Truth #2) in Books

May 13, 2021 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)  
Capturing Fate (Fatal Truth #2)
Capturing Fate (Fatal Truth #2)
Abbie Roads | 2021 | Paranormal, Romance, Thriller
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
CAPTURING FATE is the second book in the Fatal Truth series, although it could be read as a standalone. I say could because if you do, you're missing out on another 5-star read!

This novel had me confused slightly, to begin with, simply because of the timeline. I 'presumed' it would start after book one finished, but it didn't. It actually runs parallel to book one for most of it but gives you a completely different viewpoint.

And what a viewpoint it was. This book is such a gripping read. The big bad here is fully dimensional, evil in every way. Seriously, I hated the man! And Dolan and Daught, bless them. They really go through the mill. In fact, all of her boys have done and do. My heart broke for them so many times.

Although this is still dark and violent, it's not quite as violent as book one. This makes sense as this is a different book! Trust me though, it's still not light and fluffy.

I adored the ending and probably had a sappy smile on my face. The uncles about floored me, and I loved them all for it. The only problem now is there are nineteen other people I need HEAs for. If anyone deserves a HEA, it's them!

A brilliant addition to the series, and one I have no hesitation in recommending. A stunning story that kept me in its grip from start to finish. READ IT!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 13, 2021
  
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Merissa (12926 KP) rated The Bridled Tongue in Books

Feb 1, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)  
The Bridled Tongue
The Bridled Tongue
Catherine Meyrick | 2020 | Fiction & Poetry
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
THE BRIDLED TONGUE is set in the late 1500s when Alyce returns home from being in service. Her sister, Isabel, has always been in competition with Alyce but now feels as though she has won. After all, she is married - even if there are whispers of his infidelities. Things soon turn around after Alyce is betrothed, and marries, a man of higher standing than her husband. Will Isabel leave the competition behind, or will it turn deadly?

I think you know which way it will go - after all, there would be no story otherwise. What you need to do though is read this one for yourself. Instead of just reading my review which skims along the surface, take the time to delve into the depths of this amazing novel that will keep you turning the pages.

The timeline is historically accurate, with a few fictional additions. The scenes are brilliantly described and will make you feel as though you are there. Sibling rivalry can be harsh indeed, especially when it is encouraged. The circumstances between Alyce and Isabel are incredibly well thought out and explained. It was also easy to see how things could get so out of hand.

One thing I loved was seeing the relationship develop between Alyce and Thomas. From acceptance, to respect, to love. Simply delightful and wonderful to read.

This book is a 5-star review from me. It couldn't be anything else. A fantastic portrayal of the times and absolutely recommended by me.

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 1, 2021
  
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Merissa (12926 KP) rated She Sees Ghosts (Adirondack Spirit Series) in Books

Jan 20, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)  
She Sees Ghosts (Adirondack Spirit Series)
She Sees Ghosts (Adirondack Spirit Series)
David Fitz-Gerald | 2020 | Fiction & Poetry
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
SHE SEES GHOSTS is part of the Adirondack Spirit series that tells you about living in times gone past when life was both easier and a whole lot harder.

Mehitable has the ability to see and talk to ghosts. For a long time, she viewed this as a curse due to how it impacted her life. It is only as the story progresses, and she grows, that she can view it as something special. Mehitable is a strong character, determined to live her life the way she wants, rather than how society expects it. She is fully supported by her best friend, Polly, and her husband, Reuben. Other characters show up for their part, but the main story involves Mehitable, Polly, Reuben, and then Destiny. Although Destiny wasn't in it for long, he certainly had an impact. I would have liked to have had more of him, but he still managed to stake his claim in the book anyway.

This was a fascinating read that also gave insight into some of the living conditions that they contented within the here and now, as well as in their history.

I did feel the ending left me hanging. I am presuming the next book in the series will be about Moses, but I'm not completely sure. I would love to know more about Mehitable and her life though.

A wonderful story with lots of research shining through, making this a fantastic historical novel with paranormal elements. Definitely recommended by me.

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 20, 2021
  
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ClareR (5885 KP) rated Kala in Books

Aug 18, 2023  
Kala
Kala
Colin Walsh | 2023 | Contemporary, Crime, Fiction & Poetry, Mystery, Thriller
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I listened to this frankly stunning novel on audiobook via NetGalley. I think that this will be a book that people will want to read in one sitting - I couldn’t put it down (which makes work really inconvenient!).

Three friends reunite after many years. Mush has stayed in Kinlough, Joe has become a famous singer, and Helen has been working as a journalist in Canada. As teenagers, they hung around in a group of six, until one of its most popular members (Kala) goes missing. It seems that her disappearance has had a huge effect on all of her friends since then. Helen comes home for a wedding and during this time, remains are found in a hold-all. And they’re Kala.

Mush helps his mother run a coffee shop and is, I think, the most likeable character. He wants to pick up friendships where they were left off after Joe and Helen had left. I can’t help but think that Helen uses this as a way to get him to help her look into the disappearance of Kala.

This isn’t just about Kala though. It’s a book that looks at all of these characters and their lives. They all have issues of one kind or another, whether these issues are caused by Kala’s disappearance, their family lives or something more - the town itself has a violent undercurrent.

It’s beautifully written: the snatches of scenes from childhood are idyllic, the interactions of the characters range from funny to sad to menacing. Do these characters really know one another, and who can they trust? There are a lot of lies to uncover!

I will be very keen to read whatever Colin Walsh writes next - he’s definitely one to watch!
  
Reservations (Reservations #1)
Reservations (Reservations #1)
Kindle Alexander | 2021 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
RESERVATIONS is the first in a new series of the same name. In this one, we are introduced to a host of characters, some of whom have found their partners, some haven't. Thane is one that hasn't. He is happy to use escort services to give him what he needs without any messy emotions or complications getting in the way. When he sees Levi, he immediately wants him and makes the mistake of thinking that everyone can be bought. Levi is struggling to hold his family together but has a strong moral character with ethics that put Thane to shame.

I enjoyed the story of these two getting together. I LOVED that Thane was shot down in flames by Levi and the grovelling he did to try and put things right. The fact he learnt an important lesson during that made it all the more special. The sparks fly between these two and it is HOT! Be prepared for steam to come off your Kindle.

This novel is smoothly-paced and gives you plenty of time to get to know the characters. There is a LOT of miscommunication here, but then, love never runs smoothly.

I'm looking forward to seeing more of Julien as this didn't give me the information I wanted on him. Being as this isn't his book, that's not really surprising though! He is next so we'll see what happens.

A great start to a new series and definitely recommended by me.
 
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
 
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
 
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!