REVIEW - REALM BOOK 3 - a riotous revelation

Realm - Battle for the Throne (book 3)

Date read: 6th September 2021

My rating: 4.5*
Genre I reckon: YA Fantasy 

Buy link: Amazon 

Eep, what a dramatic conclusion to this fantastic series! 

Centaurs, elves, that flying carpet and a love triangle - what's not to love? 

So many wonderful characters are woven together in this series. And only in book 3 do some of those people reveal their true selves. 

The action is relentless as we travel through this battle. Good vs evil at its best. 

It stays firmly within the YA parameters. This raunchy reader kinda wishes it could've stepped outside that to unite two characters in a different way, but that's just me - LOL. 

I was rooting for the whole team the whole time. 

I felt like I was there with them, fighting alongside Lily etc., screaming with their, "NOOOO!" moments.

If you love YA fantasy, this is definitely a read for you. 

A solid 4.5* from me.

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - REALM BOOK 2 - Further fantastical fun

Realm - Ruler of the People, God of Death (book 2)

Date read: 30th August 2021

My rating: 4.5*
Genre I reckon: YA Fantasy with a centaur

Buy link: Amazon 

Find the book 1 review here.

This book continues Lily's travels in Realm. And things haven't gotten any easier!

You'd think rescuing her long-lost dad would be it, but no. That was just the beginning of their problems because now the evil king has his sights set on the entire group. And he's not the only dangerous being in Realm! 

There's danger, death and drama galore. And a large dose of mixed feelings - well, when Lily is going through stuff, it's hard to sort through her warm fuzzies.

Oh, and there's a magic carpet - eep! And did I mention the monsters? And the centaur who's still yummy. 

Each chapter is titled with the person's POV we're viewing the story through. There's a whole host of characters and it was interesting to see the plot unfold through different eyes. 

All the characters have a history and depth. The scenes are described beautifully, including an Indian-influenced town. And I really felt like I was on this adventure with them, willing them to win the day. 

I might just let book 3 jump my TBR queue! 

If you love fantasy, you really need to read this series.

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - Realm - it's fantastical

 

Realm by Jessica Cantwell

Date read: 29th March 2021

My rating: 4*
Genre I reckon: YA Fantasy - book 1 of a series

Buy link: Amazon 

Phew! Poor Lily - she gets whipped from the Earth that she knows straight into Realm; a land with many fantasy creatures. Fortunately, one of those includes a rather fine centaur. Did it just get hot in here?

This is a proper, good vs evil story, complimented by a plethora of well-rounded characters. I felt invested in each one's path as they traversed the perils of monsters at every turn. 

And then there's the family aspect - and boy, are they interesting?! 

The story is beautifully written with just enough gorgeous description so you understand the world you've been plonked into. 

Each character takes turns in telling you their story, sometimes breaking the third wall. I found this a charming way of getting to know them, like they were having a conversation with me. Their abilities are as diverse as their appearance and personalities. 

There's the hint of romance (not steamy, but a triangle is forming). Along with minimal, bleeped out swearing, this in the YA category imho. There is plenty of wit & banter too btw.

This tricky quest is just the beginning! I'm excited to read what happens next. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - Masters of the Elements - a whirlwind of adventure

 

Date read: 13th October 2020

My rating: 4*

Genre I reckon: Time Travel NA Romance Adventure

Buy link: Amazon 

Follow the author: CCSullivan_writer 

This is one of those books that leaves me feeling more cultured just for having read it. Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo both appear as Lena explores the past and present in a surprising new way. 

Lena is not alone. A survivor of a damaged past, she starts off afraid to share details with even those closest to her. But through the passing of time, she opens up and blooms. 

The host of characters are all well-written; I felt like I knew each of them and kept wanting to discover more. OMG Dante & Damian! 

Secrets are slowly revealed, and the group must learn to adapt. 

Florence is a beautiful backdrop to the dramatic events. I felt like I was there, walking through the streets. 

Action, adventure, time travel and intrigue in Florence - an easy recommend to a friend. 

I can't wait for the next book!! 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - Companion of Darkness - is dark indeed

Date read: 22nd October 2018

My rating: 5*

Genre I reckon: YA;dark fantasy

Buy link: Amazon






As you're on my blog, you may well be familiar with Love Bites, my paranormal romance. You know I'm a sucker for fantasy. So, how could I resist?

This book is YA, but it's not a sugary sweet tale by any stretch of the imagination.
Jesaela, the poor faerie, is thrown into the clutches of the evil Lyssa. But is she really as awful as she appears?

Enter into this magickal world, full of dragons and fantasy beings.
But beware; who is friend and who is foe?

I love the means of travel, especially the portals. And the characters have depth and come to life with full force.
I don't want to say who my favourites are, in case of spoilers. There's some clever twists in this tale.

The author has woven the terrific world of Teralia with expert hands. I can see, smell and feel it all.
And dammit; I want more. NOW! Hopefully the next book won't be too far away.

NB - there are some (not overly detailed) scenes of torture in this book.
But if you enjoy a good fantasy tale (no matter how far above the age of YA you are), then give this a read. You won't regret it.
Because; dragons! :)

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - Catnip - it's addictive!

Date read: 23rd August 2018

My rating: 5*

Genre I reckon: YA sci-fi fantasy (with a little romance)

Buy link: Amazon

Well, what a fabulous book!

This has been on my TBR for ages, and I've been anxious to read it. 

Just look at this cover. Now try to stop. No, I can't either! 

Whilst weaving a 'tail' of science and madness, JS Frankel also raises some poignant questions. How far should one go with scientific research, for example. 

The cat-girl is incredible, her journey no less so.

Anastasia with amnesia; lol

I don't want to say too much for fear of spoilers.

But transgenics is the theme, with a slight love story running alongside. Plenty of action, and the men in black suits.

Really well written; give it a go, you won't be sorry.

And when you do fall in love, there's more to find, as this is but the first in a whole series. Yay!

Always in love and light,

TL

Review - Call of Kythshire - I'd answer

Call of Kythshire (Keepers of the Wellsprings Book One)
by Missy Sheldrake 

Rating: 4*

Read: September 2016

Reckon it's: YA/Fantasy/Sweet Romance

I love this book (and I'm a lady over 21). 

I love the illustrations (even on my old 4th gen Kindle).
And the story is really strong.

Azaeli is an awesome young lady; one to watch in the role model stakes.
She's a squire and all round good person.
But she becomes embroiled in a fierce battle of good vs evil (sorcerers vs fairies).

Excitement and intrigue are maintained throughout, in language suitable for the age bracket.
There's a clean romance involved along the line, but the main story remains focussed on Kythshire.

Exciting and lovely.

Goodreads Book Link