Blog Tour | TAKEOUT SUSHI by Christopher Green

About the Book:

TAKEOUT SUSHI
by Christopher Green
Publication: May 2024
Publisher: Neem Tree Press
Genre: Contemporary Short Stories

Takeout Sushi is a collection of 17 illustrated short stories set mostly in contemporary Japan that explore feelings of belonging, displacement, and the strangeness of everyday human interaction.

In an innovative, fast-paced company, a man’s job comes under threat when a team of robots are brought in to replace the HR department. A husband’s search for shortcuts to his domestic tasks goes painfully wrong. Overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, a foreigner takes a weekend break and discovers something other than solitude in the mountains.

Marking Christopher Green’s debut adult fiction and inspired by his own experiences, these whimsical slice-of-life tales are full of heart and humour—perfect for fans of Convenience Store Woman and Before the Coffee Gets Cold.

Amazon
Goodreads

"With humour, nostalgy and heartwarming approach, Green put into motion characters and situations that you may rather ignore in the everyday life."
-WildWritingLife
"The stories thus evoke a variety of emotions, ranging from hope to panic to fear to laughter."
-Rosh's Reviews
"This collection is engaging and keeps your interest within each narrative."
-Ryan Yarber


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About the Author:

A long-time resident of Japan, Christopher lives near Tokyo with his wife and daughter. Christopher writes short stories and children's stories. His first collection of short stories Takeout Sushi is due for publication by Neem Tree Press in May 2024.

For a little more about Christopher and his books, please visit www.greeninjapan.com.

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Blog Tour | TIME MARKED WARLOCK by Shami Stovall

About the Book:

TIME MARKED WARLOCK
by Shami Stovall
Publication: August 1, 2024
Publisher: Capital Station Books
Genre: Urban Fantasy

Adair Finch is the most powerful warlock Urban Fantasy in the world, and one of the best private investigators for hire. He has dealt with corporate vampires, murderous werewolves, and even fae royalty. Everything was perfect until he lost one case—the case where he also lost his brother.

So Finch retired. From magic. From PI work. From everything.

Bree Blackstone, a twelve-year-old witch, doesn’t know or care about any of that except Finch’s reputation. In the middle of the night, she bangs on Finch’s door. Her mother has been murdered, and now the assassin is after Bree as well.

Reluctantly, Finch agrees to help, only to discover something sinister has been brewing in town while he ignored the world… He’ll need to dust off all his old skills and magic before it’s too late.

Goodreads

"The villain(s) were believable, had compelling motivations, and were enough of a threat to all involved to keep the reader’s interest."
-HC Newton, The Irresponsible Reader
"Wow. Totally blown away with how fast paced this is."
-Beth's Bookcase
"If you haven't read this beauty then please pick it up!
It deserves to be read by many!"
-Kealyn_Reads_LP


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About the Author:

Shami Stovall is a multi-award-winning author of fantasy and science fiction. Before that, she taught history and criminal law at the college level, and loved every second. When she’s not reading fascinating articles and books about ancient China or the Byzantine Empire, Stovall can be found playing way too many video games, especially RPGs and tactics simulators.

If you want to contact her, you can do so at the following locations:

Website: https://sastovallauthor.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GameOverStation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAStovall/
Email: s.adelle.s@gmail.com

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Blog Tour | CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND by Susan C Wilson

CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND
BY SUSAN C WILSON | PUBLICATION: JUNE 2023
NEEM TREE PRESS | GENRE: MYTHOLOGY
RATING: ★★★★★

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Queen Clytemnestra's world shatters when Agamemnon, a rival to the throne of Mycenae, storms her palace, destroys her family and claims not only the throne but Clytemnestra herself.

Tormented by her loss, she vows to do all she can to protect the children born from her unhappy marriage to Agamemnon. But when her husband casts his ruthless gaze towards the wealthy citadel of Troy, his ambitions threaten, once more, to destroy the family Clytemnestra loves.

From one of Greek mythology's most reviled characters—a woman who challenged the absolute power of men—comes this fiery tale of power, family rivalry and a mother's burning love.

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THE HOUSE OF ATREUS #1

Susan C Wilson's CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND emerges as a formidable entry into the realm of mythological retellings, offering readers a fresh perspective on the ancient tale of Clytemnestra. The novel, which is the first in a trilogy, promises to delve deeper into the lives of Clytemnestra's twin sister Helen and daughter Electra in subsequent books, setting the stage for an expansive exploration of these intertwined destinies.

The narrative unfolds through the bitter and poignant first-person account of Clytemnestra, the queen of Mycenae, whose life is marred by tragedy. Wilson's portrayal of Clytemnestra is complex and multifaceted, presenting her not just as Agamemnon's wife but as a mother fiercely devoted to her children. Her narrative voice is compelling, drawing readers into her inner world as she navigates the treacherous waters of love, loss, and vengeance.

At the heart of the story is Clytemnestra's unwavering love for her children, which becomes her driving force. The loss of her firstborn ignites a chilling resolve to shield her remaining offspring from the cruel whims of fate and the machinations of those who would use them as mere tools. Wilson adeptly captures the perilous tightrope walk between maternal instinct and the societal roles imposed upon women, highlighting the timeless struggle for autonomy and respect.

The novel does not shy away from the brutality inherent in its mythological roots. Wilson's writing is raw and unflinching, laying bare the violence that pervades the lives of her characters. Yet, it is this very savagery that lends authenticity to the narrative, grounding the fantastical elements in a reality that is as unforgiving as it is captivating.

Wilson's vivid descriptions transport readers to the ancient world of Mycenae, with its grand banquets, sacred rituals, and the ever-present glow of hearth fires. The attention to detail in the depiction of the citadel's domestic life adds a rich layer of texture to the story, making the setting an integral character in its own right.

CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND is a reclamation of a voice that has often been overshadowed by the more famous figures of Greek mythology. Wilson breathes life into Clytemnestra, transforming her from a character in a well-worn tale to a living, breathing individual with a story that demands to be heard. It is a testament to the enduring power of myth and the ways in which it can be reinterpreted to resonate with contemporary audiences.

In conclusion, Susan C Wilson's debut novel is a triumph of storytelling, weaving together the threads of ancient myth with the emotional depth of human experience. It is a book that both devastates and uplifts, leaving this reader eager for the next chapter in this evocative trilogy. For those who have yet to experience CLYTEMNESTRA'S BIND, it is a journey well worth taking, one that will linger in the mind long after the final page is turned.

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About the Author:

Susan C. Wilson is a working-class Scottish writer. Her lifelong passion for ancient Greece was ignited as a child by stumbling across stories of gods and heroes in the dictionary. She loves to explore what makes us human: the eternal motivations, desires and instincts that cross time and place.

She has a degree in journalism from Napier University and, in preparation for writing her novels, gained a diploma in classical studies from the Open University. Clytemnestra’s Bind, her debut novel, was long-listed for the Mslexia Novel Competition 2019. It is the first in The House of Atreus trilogy and will be published by Neem Tree Press in June 2023.  Photo curtesy of Neem Tree Press.

*Thanks to Neem Tree Press and @TheWriteReads for the ebook access in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE by Justinian Huang

THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE
BY JUSTINIAN HUANG | PUBLICATION: MARCH 26, 2024
HARPERCOLLINS / MIRA | GENRE: ROMANTASY
RATING: ★★★★★

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“What if I told you that the feeling we call love is actually the feeling of metaphysical recognition, when your soul remembers someone from a previous life?”

In the year 4 BCE, an ambitious courtier is called upon to seduce the young emperor—but quickly discovers they are both ruled by blood, sex and intrigue.

In 1740, a lonely innkeeper agrees to help a mysterious visitor procure a rare medicine, only to unleash an otherworldly terror instead.

And in present-day Los Angeles, a college student meets a beautiful stranger and cannot shake the feeling they’ve met before.

Across these seemingly unrelated timelines woven together only by the twists and turns of fate, two men are reborn, lifetime after lifetime. Within the treacherous walls of an ancient palace and the boundless forests of the Asian wilderness to the heart-pounding cement floors of underground rave scenes, our lovers are inexplicably drawn to each other, constantly tested by the worlds around them.

As their many lives intertwine, they begin to realize the power of their undying love—a power that transcends time itself…but one that might consume them both.

An unpredictable roller coaster of a debut novel, The Emperor and the Endless Palace is a genre-bending romantasy that challenges everything we think we know about true love.

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EXPLORING THE DEPTHS OF LOVE ACROSS TIME

Justinian Huang's debut novel is a masterful tapestry of love's endurance through the ages. The narrative takes us on a journey across different timelines, from ancient China to modern-day Los Angeles, weaving a complex story of romance, betrayal, and destiny.

In 4 BCE China, we meet a low-ranking clerk whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is chosen to capture the young emperor's attention. This marks the beginning of an epic saga that traverses centuries, highlighting the immutable force of love. Huang's portrayal of this era is rich with historical detail, immersing readers in a world where duty and desire collide. A favorite trope, I must admit.

The story then shifts to 1740 China, where an innkeeper's mundane existence is disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious young man and his grandmother. The ensuing events draw the innkeeper into a web of intrigue, requiring the aid of a past lover. A tribute to Pu Songling, of course. Huang skillfully uses this narrative strand to explore themes of isolation and the human yearning for connection.

In present-day Los Angeles, a college student's life is forever changed when he encounters a mysterious artist who seems to have captured his likeness across time. This strand of the story delves into the complexities of identity and the search for belonging in a world that often feels alienating.

Huang's ability to toggle between these periods with ease is a testament to his storytelling prowess. The characters' struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, as they are reborn and rediscovered in each other's arms, lifetime after lifetime. Every interaction is like a mirage, at once familiar, and yet, unique. The novel is a celebration of queer love, transcending the boundaries of time and space.

Drawing from Chinese history and mythology, Huang creates a central couple that embodies the power and beauty of love. The novel's scope is ambitious, yet Huang manages to deliver a narrative that is lyrical, intimate, and grand. I was enthralled.

THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE has been praised for its genre-bending elements, combining fantasy, romance, and historical fiction to create a romantasy that challenges conventional notions of love. It is a novel that promises to leave readers both enchanted and contemplative, pondering the enduring nature of love and the ways in which it can define our lives.

With this stunning debut, Justinian Huang has established himself as a formidable voice in contemporary literature. His novel is not just a story; it is an experience that celebrates the timeless and transformative power of love. For those who are drawn to tales that span lifetimes and challenge fate, THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE is a must-read.

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About the Author:

   

Born to immigrants in Monterey Park, California, Justinian Huang studied English at Pomona College and screenwriting at the University of Oxford. He is now based in Los Angeles with Swagger, a Shanghainese rescue dog he adopted during his five years living in China. THE EMPEROR AND THE ENDLESS PALACE is his debut novel.
 Photo curtesy of HarperCollins.

*Thanks to HarperCollinsCA for the ARC, via Netgalley, in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Blog Tour | A SWIFT RETURN by Fiona Barker

A SWIFT RETURN
BY FIONA BARKER | PUBLICATION: FEBRUARY 2024
ILLUSTRATOR: HOWARD GRAY | ARABIC TEXT: MAYSOON ABUBLAN
TINY TREE BOOKS | GENRE: CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK
Rating: ★★★★

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Aria has her head in the clouds. Yusuf keeps his feet on the ground. But when they work together to save a bird who has lost her way, something magical happens. When Swift loses her way on her epic migration. Aria and Yusuf come to her rescue and are inspired to think big about looking after the sky above their city. Inspired by Fiona and Howard’s love for wildlife of all kinds, A Swift Return is the follow-up to Setsuko and the Song of the Sea. Howard’s beautiful illustrations evoke a strong sense of place, strengthened by the beautiful Arabic text distilled by Maysoon AbuBlan.

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This is such a wonderful book.

In a world where pollution threatens the beauty and balance of nature, A SWIFT RETURN stands as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility. This story, through its serene illustrations and succinct language, underscores the urgent message that we must all contribute to reducing our carbon footprints. It's a call to action for each of us to aid those who suffer the consequences of environmental damage. Aria and Yusuf, despite their tender age and differing passions, unite for a noble cause: rescuing an injured bird. Their journey is a testament to the power of collaboration in the face of adversity and highlights the imperative to recognize and act upon the duties we owe to our planet.

This book is an essential read for parents eager to inspire environmental stewardship in their young children. I recommend.

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About the Author:

   

Fiona is a middle-aged, married mum of one. She is positively potty about picturebooks; reading them and writing them. When writing, she longs for alliterative loveliness but is reluctant to rhyme. When reading, she looks for a marriage of words and artwork and loves anything that is fun to read aloud.
Fiona loves doing school author visits and speaking to adults about picture books and children's publishing.

Visit www.fionabarker.co.uk for details of forthcoming events.

*Thanks to Tiny Tree Books and @TheWriteReads for the finished copy in exhange for this unbiased review.

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Book Review | COMPASS AND BLADE by Rachel Greenlaw

COMPASS AND BLADE
BY RACHEL GREENLAW | PUBLICATION: FEBRUARY 29, 2024
INKYARD PRESS / HARPERCOLLINSCA | GENRE: YA FANTASY
RATING: ★★★½

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This world of sea and storm runs deep with bargains and blood.

On the remote isle of Rosevear, Mira, like her mother before her, is a wrecker, one of the seven on the rope who swim out to shipwrecks to plunder them. Mira’s job is to rescue survivors, if there are any. After all, she never feels the cold of the frigid ocean waters and the waves seem to sing to her soul. But the people of Rosevear never admit the truth: that they set the beacons themselves to lure ships into the rocks.

When the Council watch lays a trap to put an end to the wrecking, they arrest Mira’s father. Desperate to save him from the noose, Mira strikes a deal with an enigmatic wreck survivor guarding layers of secrets behind his captivating eyes, and sets off to find something her mother has left her, a family secret buried deep in the sea.

With just nine days to find what she needs to rescue her father, all Mira knows for certain is this: The sea gives. The sea takes. And it’s up to her to do what she must to save the ones she loves.

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I enjoyed reading COMPASS AND BLADE, a YA fantasy adventure, and the first book in an expected trilogy. The book follows Mira, a young wrecker who lives on a remote island where the villagers lure ships to their doom and scavenge their cargo. Mira has always felt a connection to the sea, but she also longs for something more than her harsh and dangerous life. When her father is captured by the watch, the ruthless enforcers of the mainland, Mira decides to risk everything to save him. She teams up with Seth, a mysterious survivor of one of her wrecks, and embarks on a perilous journey across the ocean. Along the way, she discovers secrets about her past, her family, and the true nature of the sirens that haunt the waters.

Rachel Greenlaw has a knack for creating a vivid sense of place and time, making me feel like I was sailing along with Mira on her quest. The Fortunate Isles are full of wonders and dangers, and Greenlaw describes them with rich details and poetic language. I could almost smell the salt in the air, feel the wind in my hair, and hear the waves crashing on the rocks. The world building is impressive and immersive, revealing new aspects of the history, culture, and magic of this fantasy world as the story progresses. The plot is fast-paced and full of surprises, keeping me hooked until the end.

However, I also had some issues with the book, mainly with the characters and the romance. Mira is supposed to be a brave and adventurous heroine, but she comes across as naïve and passive most of the time. Then again, it may be the author’s intention for this first installment. Which reminds me of Meghan Chase from The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa, and how much I want to smack her in the head in Book 1, then completely fell for her by Book 3. The romance between Mira and Seth is also underdeveloped and unconvincing. They fall in love too quickly and easily in my opinion. I would have liked to see more tension, conflict, and development between them, making them more complex and realistic. I didn't feel invested in their relationship.

COMPASS AND BLADE is a captivating read for fans of fantasy and adventure, with a stunning setting and a thrilling plot. I look forward to the next book.

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About the Author:

   

Rachel Greenlaw lives on an island in the middle of the Atlantic, with all the allure of tropical palm trees in the summer and spine-tingling storms in the winter. Her debut women’s fiction novel, One Christmas Morning, was published in 2023. The Compass and Blade trilogy is her first YA fiction series.

@rachelgreenlaw_ | www.rachelgreenlaw.com

*Thanks to HarperCollins CA / Inkyard Press for the printed ARC in exchange for this unbiased review.

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Blog Tour | Askefise by Rebecca Schmid

About the Book:

Askefise
by Rebecca Schmid
Publication: 12 October 2022
Publisher: Schara Reeves Press
Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Tales of Redemeré: Book I
ASKEFISE
n. One who blows on ashes to bring them to flame.

In a time before the Great War has ravaged the land, two sisters stumble across a lone traveler who calls himself Tyron. They tell him that they’re just passersby. He tells them that he’s nobody.

They’re all lying.

When the sisters begrudgingly agree to take Tyron with them to safety, they have no idea what they set in motion. One thing’s for certain: The world of Eatris will never be the same.

For once Tyron has started, there’s no turning back.

Amazon
Goodreads

"The story is splashed with action and romance, has simple but well done political intrigue, and includes thoughtful disability representation. It also pictures complex familial relationships and how trauma shapes us as we grow up. It got me engaged all the way through."
-Tiny Elf Arcanist
"it's a very well written book with a very solid storyline and characters that you can't help but root for."
-Patricia
"Overall, this is a great book for fantasy fans, with flawed but likeable characters in a detailed and fascinating world. Bring on book 2!"
-Books, Cats, Etc.


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About the Author:

Rebecca Schmid is an author and pianist from upstate New York. She credits her parents for fostering her love of books and writing. With their encouragement, she has been writing since she was a teenager (though she cringes at the thought of those early drafts) along with her best friend and sister-in-law, Niamh Schmid. Together, they co-authored the series, A Daughter’s Ransom, debuting their first book in 2020. Both have continued to explore the TetraWorlds in solo works as well as joint projects.

While books and music take up most of her time, Rebecca enjoys dabbling in many other hobbies such as painting, horse riding, history, archery, hiking, martial arts, and more. If anyone asks her why she needs so many past times, her excuse is simple: “I’m researching…for my book, of course.”

You can find her on many different social media platforms under her imprint name, Schara Reeves Press (@ScharaReeves)

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