Book Review | THIS WILL BE FUN by E.B. Asher

THIS WILL BE FUN
            BY E.B. ASHER | PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 29,2024
 AVON | GENRE: FANTASY
RATING: ★★★

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Ten years ago, they saved the realm—and it ruined their lives. Now, four former heroes must reunite, and hopefully live to tell the tale, in this charming romantasy about friendship and redemption, perfect for readers of Legends & Lattes and lovers of Shrek.

Everyone in Mythria knows the story of how best friends Beatrice and Elowen, handsome ex-bandit Clare, and valiant leader Galwell the Great defended the realm from darkness. It’s a tale beloved by all—except them. They haven’t spoken in a decade, devastated by what their quest cost them.

But when they all receive an invitation to the queen of Mythria’s wedding, it’s a summons they can’t refuse . . . and a reunion for the ages—with Clare secretly not over his long-ago fling with Beatrice, Beatrice fighting the guilt she feels over how everything ended, Elowen unprepared for the return of her ex-love (the cunning Vandra), and all of them lost without Galwell. And if reuniting with former friends and lovers wasn’t perilous enough, dark forces from their past have also returned.

Dusting off old weapons and old instincts, Beatrice, Clare, and Elowen will face undead nemeses, crystal caves, enchanted swords, coffee shops, games of magical Truth or Dare, and, hardest of all, their past rife with wounds never healed and romances never forgotten.

This time around, will their story end in happily ever after?

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"A Tale of Nostalgia, Adventure, and Missed Potential"

THIS WILL BE FUN by E.B. Asher is a romantasy that blends elements of adventure, magic, and romance into a tale. The premise has so much potential: once glorified heroes, now estranged, are invited together to attend a royal wedding —moreover, for a last mission. The emphasis on friendship promised a cozy read, and I was excited to see how the characters would navigate their past and present struggles.

The story revolves around Beatrice, Elowen, Clare, and Galwell the Great, who once saved the realm of Mythria from darkness. Ten years later, they are invited to the queen’s wedding, bringing them back together for a reunion filled with unresolved feelings and old flames. As dark forces resurface, they must embark on another quest to save their land and confront their past.

Despite the intriguing premise, the book often felt like a collection of unfinished ideas. While the characters are likable, the narrative struggled to bring together the different elements cohesively. The emphasis on Beatrice and Clare's romantic tension overshadowed the adventure, which felt underdeveloped. The repetition of emotional turmoil without advancing the plot became tiresome. As a fan of world-building in fantasy novels, I found the setting lacked the richness and detail I had hoped for. The book has its moments of charm, but it didn’t fully deliver on its potential.

I appreciated the focus on friendship, which added a cozy layer to the romantasy genre. However, I found myself wanting the story to delve deeper into the quest rather than the romantic subplots. The book ironically was not fun most of the time, as it kept circling the same emotional beats. Yet, if you're into burning passion evolving from years of longing (oftentimes) masking as anger, this story is for you.

Overall, THIS WILL BE FUN offers an interesting mix of nostalgia, adventure, and second chances. While it didn't completely live up to my expectations, it might still resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven stories and second-chance romances. For those seeking a richly detailed fantasy world or a tightly-knit adventure, it may leave you wanting more.

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About the Author:
E. B. Asher is the pen name for authors Bridget Morrissey, Emily Wibberley, and Austin Siegemund-Broka. Bridget Morrissey is the author of the romance novels Love Scenes, A Thousand Miles, and That Summer Feeling, as well as two novels for teens. She lives in Los Angeles, where she coaches gymnastics. Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka are the authors of the romance novels The Roughest Draft, Do I Know You? and The Breakup Tour, as well as several novels for teens. Married, they live in Los Angeles, where they continue to take daily inspiration from their own love story.

*Thanks to HarperCollinsCA for the egalley
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Blog Tour | FALLEN KNIGHT by Ceril N. Domace

About the Book:

FALLEN KNIGHT
BY CERIL N. DOMACE
PUBLICATION: JANUARY 24, 2025 | GENRE: ADULT FANTASY

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Leon Quinn has two goals in life: stay out of the reach of the Templesbane and drink himself unconscious whenever he can afford it.

The first is because the Templesbane wiped out his home and family among the Knights Vigilant when he was a child, destroying everything he knew and loved in one night. The second is to help him sleep when the memories of the first overwhelm him.

But he can’t avoid his past forever. His mercenary work has brought him back to Mezeldwelf, the city he fled to after the downfall of the Knights Vigilant, and to his estranged father just in time to get embroiled in a scheme that threatens the very foundation of the city. A scheme that could see Mezeldwelf, its people, and its gods handed over to the Templesbane.

To protect the city and man that adopted him, Leon will need to confront the ruins of the life he left behind and the horrors that threaten the life he’s cobbled together since then.

AMAZON | GOODREADS | STORYGRAPH

"This such a good read that hooked me in as soon as I started it."
-Helen Byles
"Domace masterfully crafts a world that is incredibly immersive, with intricately blended elements of classic fantasy, and a role-playing game-style narrative. "
-Charlotte
"This book really captured me emotionally."
-karla_bookishlife
"The writing was superbly done. I was immediately hooked and I looked forward to getting out of work everyday for the past 4 days, just so I could get the next portion in."
-Cozy with Books



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About the Author:

Ceril N Domace is an accountant, animal lover, and dedicated dungeon master.

As a lover of fiction works great and small, Ceril has been reading age-inappropriate stories since her father failed to pull The Silmarillion from her grubby little fingers at age five. As a grown-up accountant, her spreadsheet compiling gives her plenty of time to make plans for a fantastic world that isn't plagued by balance sheets . . . and also has dragons.

On the rare occasions she manages to free herself from an ever-growing and complex web of TTRPG, Ceril enjoys taking walks and griping that all her hobbies are work in disguise.

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Book Review | A DEATH IN DIAMONDS by S.J. Bennett

A DEATH IN DIAMONDS
               BY S.J. BENNETT  |  PUBLICATION: JANUARY 21, 2025
CROOKED LANE BOOKS  |  GENRE: MYSTERY & THRILLER
RATING: ★★★★✬

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Two murders in Chelsea plague amateur detective Queen Elizabeth II in the fourth book in the charming series, perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and Jacqueline Winspear.

1957, England. Young Queen Elizabeth II is finding her way in postwar Europe, trying to repair friendships with foreign governments. Advised by her father’s old courtiers, the Queen suspects that they may not have her best interests at heart. One of them is trying to sabotage her public appearances: that much she is sure of.

When two bodies turn up in Chelsea, the Queen finds herself unwillingly used as the alibi for somebody very close to her. With the reputation of the monarchy at stake, Elizabeth knows she can’t face these challenges alone. She needs support from someone she can trust. Therefore, she enlists the help of an ex-code breaker, Joan McGraw, to uncover the truth.

But as Elizabeth and Joan are uncovering secrets from the past, the clock is ticking, and they are in more danger than they know.

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A DEATH IN DIAMONDS is the fourth installment in S.J. Bennett's brilliant series, and it continues to impress. Bennett masterfully sketches Her Majesty, the Queen, as we all perceive her—wise, elegant, and compassionate. Set in 1957, the historical background is particularly engaging this time around taking us back in time to a period that feels much closer to home. The Queen opens Parliament and delivers a radio address to Canadians, adding a layer of authenticity and relevance.

The plot is filled with murder, despair, and intrigue, topped with a stolen tiara. A couple is found murdered in an exclusive mews, and the woman is wearing the stolen tiara. The investigation is not just a race against time, but may be against some certain elements too, both known and unknown. Inspector Darbishire hits a dead end and is even warned off the case. The Queen must discreetly set her own investigation in motion, with the help of Joan McGraw, a stand-in Assistant Private Secretary. However, delving into certain aspects of the case could have serious consequences, and the Queen is hesitant to open that can of worms.

This story offers a more personal look into the Queen's life, focusing on her family dynamics, her vulnerability as a young wife and mother, and her eagerness to serve her country and the Commonwealth. Bennett's writing is as thoroughly enjoyable as ever, but this installment is especially moving and emotional as the Queen tries to balance her duty with her heart.

I particularly loved Joan's introduction and the snippet of her love story, adding a delightful touch to the narrative. Joan navigates a male-dominated world and also faces the rigid class systems within the Palace. Her adventures often keeps me at the edge of my seat. I'm always afraid for her. Something, I guess, I have never experienced with tall and formidable Rozie Oshodi, whom I always cheer on like a champion.

A DEATH IN DIAMONDS is a captivating continuation of the series, offering a blend of historical fiction, mystery, and personal drama. Fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy this latest installment.

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About the Author:

SJ Bennett was born in Yorkshire, England, and lives in London. An army child, she grew up traveling around the world. Her first novel was published when she was forty-two, after a varied career and lots of procrastination. She is the award-winning author of several books for children and teaches and podcasts about writing.
Photo from publisher's website. No infringement intended.

*Thanks to Croocked Lane Books and Netgalley for the eARC access
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | ACE, MARVEL, SPY by Jenni L. Walsh

ACE, MARVEL, SPY
BY JENNI L. WALSH  |  PUBLICATION: JAN 14, 2025
          HARPER MUSE  |  GENRE: HISTORICAL FICTION
RATING: ★★★★         

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Based on the life of a very real, very incredible American icon.
Alice Marble strives to have it all.

Alice tirelessly works her way up to be a #1 tennis champion, all while maintaining a growing career trajectory editing the Wonder Women comic. She enjoys her hard-earned success with her loving husband, her steadfast coach, and her dear friends—many of whom are famous and well-connected.

But then her world falls apart.

Alice's life begins to unravel when she receives a telegram informing her that her husband has been killed in action in the war in Germany. Heartbroken, she feels like she can only watch as the war wreaks havoc in every area of her life.

Until an unexpected invitation arrives.

Alice is prompted to action when the US Army sends her a request: Under the guise of playing in tennis exhibition games in Switzerland, she would be a spy for them. And Alice aches for nothing more than to avenge her husband's death. What awaits her might be her greatest challenge yet.

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ACE, MARVEL, SPY is a fascinating biofic novel that brings to life the story of tennis star Alice Marble and her coach, Teach Tennant. Author Jenni L. Walsh skillfully combines Alice's memoir with her own imaginative storytelling to fill in the gaps, creating a compelling narrative.

Whenever opportunity presents itself, I love watching tennis matches. It's not just about the players' skill, mastery of the game, or their courage. It's also about the civility exercised by everyone involved, including the rebels. And we've seen many rebels, indeed.

The novel provides a detailed account of Alice's rise to tennis stardom, highlighting her achievements and the challenges she faced. However, it also delves into a critical period in her life when she is forced to stop playing competitively due to the onset of World War II. This blend of tennis and WWII historical fiction is both engaging and enlightening.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its accurate portrayal of tennis. Despite the abundance of tennis-related content, Walsh manages to present it in a way that is accessible to the average reader. The spy element of the story is particularly thrilling and adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Walsh's use of different storytelling techniques, such as telegrams and news stories, adds depth and variety to the narrative. These elements help to break up the text and keep the reader engaged.

Alice's courage is further highlighted by the personal loss she endures when her husband is killed during WWII, which ultimately leads her to agree to spy for US intelligence. This courage likely stemmed from her being an undisputed tennis player, accustomed to facing and overcoming challenges.

While the book does an excellent job of speaking tennis accurately, I would have liked to see a bit more focus on the espionage aspect. Nonetheless, ACE, MARVEL, SPY remains a well-rounded and enjoyable read. In fact, I'd love to see this story in a movie or a short series. Recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction and have an interest in tennis.

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About the Author:

Jenni L. Walsh worked for a decade enticing readers as an award-winning advertising copywriter before becoming an author. Her passion lies in transporting readers to another world, be it in historical or contemporary settings. She is a proud graduate of Villanova University, and lives in the Philadelphia suburbs with her husband, daughter, son, and various pets.

Jenni is the USA Today bestselling author of historical novels Becoming Bonnie, Side by Side, A Betting Woman, The Call of the Wrens, and Unsinkable. She also writes books for children, including the nonfiction She Dared series and historical novels Hettie and the London Blitz, I Am Defiance, By the Light of Fireflies, Over and Out, and Operation: Happy. To learn more about Jenni and her books, please visit jennilwalsh.com or @jennilwalsh on social media.
Photo from author's website. No infringement intended

*Thanks to Harper Muse and Wunderkind PR for the ebook access
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE ANCIENTS by John Larison

THE ANCIENTS
                       BY JOHN LARISON  |  PUBLICATION: OCTOBER 15, 2024
PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE  |  GENRE: SCIENCE FICTION
RATING: ★★★★

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A young boy and his older sisters find themselves suddenly and utterly alone, orphaned in an abandoned fishing village. Their food supplies dwindling, they set out across a breathtaking yet treacherous wilderness in search of the last of their people.

Down the coast, raiders deliver the children's mother, along with the rest of their human cargo, to the last port city of a waning empire. Determined to reunite with her family, she plots her escape—while her fellow captives plan open revolt.

At the center of power in this crumbling city, a young scholar inherits his father's business and position of privilege, along with the burden of his debts. As the empire's elite prepare to flee to new utopia across the sea, he must decide where his allegiance lies.

With a rapidly changing climate shifting the sands beneath their feet, these three paths converge in a struggle for the future of humanity—who will inherit what remains and who gets to tell its story. At once a sweeping survival story; an epic of the distance future; and a post-apocalyptic vision of hope and optimism, THE ANCIENTS weaves a multilayered narrative about human resilience, hope, and stewardship of our world for future generations.

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John Larison's THE ANCIENTS is a masterful blend of dystopian fiction and post-apocalyptic survival. Set in a time where climate change has drastically altered the world, the novel weaves together the stories of three sets of characters, each struggling to survive and find their place in a rapidly changing environment.

Larison's novel is a survival story. A meditation on human resilience, hope, and the stewardship of our world for future generations. The pacing of the novel is deliberate, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the richly detailed world Larison has created. The narrative is both poetic and gripping, with each character's journey adding depth to the overarching themes of the novel.

The book serves as a stark reminder of our current environmental crisis. Larison's depiction of a world ravaged by climate change mirrors the exploitation of our planet and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations. The novel highlights how those in power often take advantage of the most affected by climate change, drawing a poignant parallel to our present-day struggles. Interweaving fables throughout the story was really clever, becoming something of a warning, accenting lessons from the past and deciding on a better future.

Larison's ability to create a believable and immersive world, combined with his exploration of complex themes, makes this a standout read. Whether you're drawn to the survival aspects or the deeper philosophical questions, THE ANCIENTS offers a compelling and rewarding experience.

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About the Author:

John Larison spent much of his childhood in remote regions of Australia, the Caribbean, Canada, the South Pacific, Alaska, and the American West. While learning to write, he worked as a fly-fishing and whitewater guide in the Pacific Northwest. His acclaimed, bestselling novel Whiskey When We’re Dry was an Indie Next pick and was named a best book by O, The Oprah Magazine; Goodreads; Entertainment Weekly; Outside; Southern Living; Parade; The Times; and others. He teaches classical mythology and creative writing at Oregon State University.
Photo from Penguin Random House.

*Thanks to Penguin Random House for the eARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE LAST DRAGON OF THE EAST by Katrina Kwan

THE LAST DRAGON OF THE EAST
 BY KATRINA KWAN  |  PUBLICATION: OCT 8, 2024
SAGA PRESS  |  GENRE: ROMANTASY
RATING: ★★★★✬      

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At the spry young age of twenty-five, Sai has led a quiet life, keeping the family teahouse up and running—even if that means ignoring the past-due notices—and taking care of his ailing mother. But he has a not-so-secret gift that he’s parlayed into a side career: he was born with the ability see the red threads of fate between soulmates, which lends itself nicely to matchmaking. Sai has thus far been content not to follow his own thread, the only one he’s ever seen that’s gray and fraying.

But Sai’s ordinary existence is about to be turned upside-down by a pair of shining dragon scales. When his mother’s doctor sells them to him, claiming them as a miracle cure, Sai is pretty sure he’s being scammed. When the medicine actually works—and the terrifying, ruthless emperor catches wind—Sai is thrust into the search for a dragon long thought extinct that will lead him into the throes of a brewing war and deep into foreign lands, facing down challenges both magical and mortal on an unexpected adventure. And for the very first time, as his own thread of fate begins to move, he may be able to solve the mystery of his Fated One on the other end of the line.

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Katrina Kwan's debut novel, THE LAST DRAGON OF THE EAST is a mesmerizing blend of Chinese mythology and fantasy. The story follows Sai, a young man with the unique ability to see the red threads of fate that connect soulmates. His quiet life takes a dramatic turn when he acquires a pair of dragon scales, leading him on an adventure filled with magic, danger, and the search for his Fated One.

As someone with Asian heritage, the themes of fated soulmates and reincarnation deeply resonated with me. These cultural beliefs add a rich layer to the narrative, making the story feel both personal and universal.

Kwan's narration is nothing short of beautiful and lyrical. Despite its poetic quality, the story maintains a brisk pace, never sacrificing detail or depth. This balance keeps readers engaged from start to finish, making it a truly immersive experience.

The novel is vast in scope yet inclusive, weaving together diverse characters and perspectives. It explores themes of destiny, love, and the eternal search for one's soulmate, all set against the backdrop of a richly imagined world inspired by Chinese mythology.

One of the standout elements of Kwan's novel is her depiction of dragons. In Western mythology, dragons are often seen as destructive creatures that devour everything in their path. However, in Asian mythology, dragons are revered as protectors and symbols of power, strength, and prosperity. Kwan captures this beautifully, portraying dragons as noble and benevolent beings, which adds a unique cultural dimension to the story.

THE LAST DRAGON OF THE EAST is a must-read for fans of fantasy and mythology. Its unique blend of lyrical narration and fast-paced storytelling makes it a standout debut. Whether you're drawn to the cultural elements or the thrilling adventure, this book has something for everyone.

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About the Author:

Katrina Kwan is a Vancouver-based author and actress. After graduating from Acadia University in 2017 with a BA in political science with honors, Kwan spent the next six years honing her creative skills as a freelance ghostwriter. With several ghostwritten romance novels under her belt, she’s ecstatic to finally be writing books under her own name. She is also the author of the contemporary romcom Knives, Seasoning, & a Dash of Love. She lives in Vancouver with her husband and two cats, and when she isn’t writing, she is desperately trying to keep her collection of houseplants alive. Photograph by Katrina Kwan.

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster CA for the eARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | GENTLEST OF WILD THINGS by Sarah Underwood

GENTLEST OF WILD THINGS
BY SARAH UNDERWOOD | PUBLICATION: OCT 1, 2024
HARPERCOLLINS | GENRE: YA FICTION
RATING: ★★★★

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Desire binds them. Hunger compels them. Love will set them free. . . .

On the island of Zakynthos, nothing is more powerful than Desire—love itself, bottled and sold to the highest bidder by Leandros, a power-hungry descendant of the god Eros.

Eirene and her beloved twin sister, Phoebe, have always managed to escape Desire’s thrall—until Leandros’s wife dies mysteriously and he sets his sights on Phoebe. Determined to keep her sister safe, Eirene strikes a bargain with Leandros: If she can complete the four elaborate tasks he sets her, he will find another bride. But it soon becomes clear that the tasks are part of something bigger; something related to Desire and Lamia, the strange, neglected daughter Leandros keeps locked away.

Lamia knows her father hides her for her own protection, though as she and Eirene grow closer, she finds herself longing for the outside world. But the price of freedom is high, and with something deadly—something hungry—stalking the night, that price must be paid in blood. . . .

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Sarah Underwood's novel, GENTLEST OF WILD THINGS, harnessed the power of mythological storytelling reimagined for a contemporary audience. The book delves into the ancient Greek myth of Eros and Psyche, but with a twist that infuses the narrative with a modern sensibility about love, desire, and the human condition.

Set against the backdrop of Zakynthos, a place where the concept of Desire is commodified, the story unfolds with Eirene and Phoebe, twin sisters whose bond is tested by the machinations of Leandros, a descendant of Eros. The novel explores the complexities of love—not as an abstract concept but as a tangible, powerful force that drives the characters to extremes.

Underwood's prose is a blend of lyrical beauty and dark intrigue, capturing the essence of a world where love can be both a blessing and a curse. The character of Lamia, Leandros' daughter, is particularly compelling, embodying the conflict between the longing for freedom and the dangers it entails.

While the pacing may occasionally slow, the overall narrative is a mesmerizing experience, GENTLEST OF WILD THINGS is a captivating novel that challenges the reader to consider the price of love, and the sacrifices made in its name. It's a journey through a landscape where myth meets reality, and where the stakes are life itself. Critics have praised the novel for its exploration of themes such as feminism, disability, and abuse, all woven into a rich tapestry of mythological retelling. For those who appreciate tales with profound emotional stakes and powerful female characters, Sarah Underwood's novel is a captivating read that lingers long after the last page is turned.

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About the Author:

Sarah Underwood grew up by the sea in Devon. A data scientist by training, she is a graduate of Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge and is now studying for her PhD at the University of Oxford. Sarah has been writing as long as she can remember and has always been drawn to stories of myth and magic. Her debut novel, Lies We Sing to the Sea, was an instant New York Times, indie, and international bestseller.

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster CA for the printed ARC
in exchange for this unbiased review.

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