Beneath a Crescent Shadow {Book One in the Balkan Legends Series} by A.L. Sowards-Historical Fiction Book Review

 Book Synopsis

After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and dangers much closer to their Balkan home.

The Balkans, 1373

A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin’s father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving Konstantin to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, this young, new ruler is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future.

A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana’s betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana’s abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope of saving their people from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain (June 4, 2024)
• Genre: Historical Fiction
• Series: The Balkan Legends
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639932461

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required****

My Review

Beneath a Crescent Shadow has become my latest "I couldn’t put this book down" read. Once you dive in, it’s nearly impossible to stop. The story combines themes of war, love, forgiveness, loyalty, and honor, all set against a rich historical backdrop. 

A.L. Sowards, the author, is known for her deep and accurate historical research and her ability to craft captivating historical fiction. In recent years, Sowards has explored periods of history that were unfamiliar to me.   

Set in the Balkans in 1373, the novel follows Konstantin, a vassal to the Ottoman Sultan, who has conquered Serbia with his powerful army. As a young Zupan, Konstantin inherits a struggling Zupa and aims for financial stability. His grandfather arranges a marriage to Suzana, who brings a significant dowry but also carries the scars of a trauma-filled childhood.  

I especially loved the development of Konstantin and Suzana's relationship. Suzana battled with trust issues stemming from her history of abuse, especially from her father. Konstantin was a supportive husband and gradually guided her out of the shadows of her past. Her path to healing was the favorite part of the story for me. The writing flows so smoothly that the shifts in POV feel seamless. There is also a good twist in the story that you won't see coming. 

Amid battle scenes, relationship struggles, and community conflicts, a tender romance grows. I look forward to reading the second book, as Beneath a Crescent Shadow has made a lasting impression on me. This story will stay with me for a long time.

****Meet Author A.L. Sowards****

A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She lives in Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

For more information, please visit her website, ALSowards.com

~*~*~*~*Purchase Beneath a Crescent Shadow~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Hardcover-https://amzn.to/4eDba8e

Kindle-https://amzn.to/4cvIzjy

A Provincial Peer: Georgian Gentlemen Series By Sian Ann Bessey-Historical Romance Book Review

 Book Synopsis

Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. The heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. So when a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is intrigued.

Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.

Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Covenant Communications (May 7, 2024)
• Series: Book 6 of Georgian Gentlemen
• Genre: Historical Romance
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 248 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1524426180

• ***I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

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My Review

The Georgian Gentlemen series has been remarkable. A Provincial Peer is an incredibly sweet novel. I quickly grew to love Lord Benning, Benedict, who is one of the most charming male characters I've met within the pages of a book. While not flawless, he quickly rectified his mistakes. Caroline Granger, who returned home with her young daughter Meg after her husband's passing, shows impressive bravery. Caroline carries scars from a bout of smallpox. Although Benedict is an old family friend, Caroline shares a closer friendship with his younger brother. This story explores themes of social class, self-acceptance, and weaves in a bit of mystery alongside the romance. Seeing the bond between Benedict and Meg from the start was heartwarming, and their interactions always made me happy. 

The plot involving the deadly smallpox outbreak and the introduction of the first smallpox vaccination was intriguing. I enjoy a delightful romance that also educates me. 

A Provincial Peer and the entire series are so skillfully written that you are instantly immersed in the story.I love feel-good stories where good people come out on top. All of the heartfelt moments in this story will also make you an instant fan of Author Sian Ann Bessey...unless you already are.I enthusiastically recommend reading the entire Georgian Gentlemen series.

****Meet Author Sian Ann Bessey****

Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, and grew up on the island of Anglesey off the north coast of Wales. She left Wales to attend Brigham Young University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in communications. The author of several novels and children's books, Sian has also written articles for the New Era, Ensign, and Liahona magazines. Sian and her husband, Kent, are the parents of five children and the grandparents of three beautiful girls and two handsome boys. They currently live in Rexburg, Idaho, and although Sian has few opportunities to speak Welsh anymore, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch still rolls off her tongue. Traveling, reading, cooking, and being with her grandchildren are some of her favorite activities. She also loves hearing from her readers.

Learn more about Sian and her books 

HERE:

sianannbessey.com

~*~*~*~*Purchase A Provincial Peer~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://amzn.to/4cKANmm

Kindle-https://amzn.to/3LAoddE

Cold Vengeance by Nancy Mehl- Romantic Suspense Book Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Cold Vengeance by Nancy Mehl hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Cold Vengeance 

Series: Ryland & St. Clair #3 

Author: Nancy Mehl 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: July 16, 2024 

Genre: Romantic Suspense 

****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection--she may have discovered the existence of an unknown serial killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan. 

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the target of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives--and hearts--on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both? 

USA Today bestselling author Nancy Mehl brings her Ryland & St. Clair series to an explosive close with a pulse-pounding story where the stakes are high and silence is deadly.

My Review

This series has engaged me and I love it! I also really admire Author Nancy Mehl's approach to writing suspense novels. The story begins with all the pieces of the puzzle scattered, and as the chapters continue, readers gradually gather each piece, happily participating in solving the puzzle.

 I enjoy thinking alongside River and Tony. Having read the earlier books, readers are already familiar with the characters. The series stands out because the main characters are former FBI behavioral analysts who have moved into private investigation. You definitely look at things differently through their eyes and experiences. The investigation into cold cases that April, a popular crime podcaster, was exploring before her kidnapping adds an interesting element to the story. There's also a continuing case where River's life is in harm's way.

While Cold Vengeance may not be filled with constant action, it explores the thoughts of two highly skilled private investigators. You are holding your breath when things do get intense.

The Christian theme is prevalent, highlighting their relationship with God, their faith, and River's remarkable journey toward forgiving her father. The romance between River and Tony remains endearing, and it was heartwarming to witness their bond deepen. While Cold Vengeance can stand on its own, I am grateful for having read the previous books, as it enriches the conclusion of both the book and the series. Cold Vengeance is among my favorite reads for 2024 thus far.

PURCHASE LINKS:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

More Books from this Series:

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****About the Author****

Nancy Mehl is the author of more than fifty books, a Parable and ECPA bestseller, and the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson.

Connect with Nancy by visiting NancyMehl.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive the complete paperback set of the Ryland & St. Clair series and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 24, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 31, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

The Crimson Stained Catalyst: The Last Fae King Book One By Rebecca Ethington-Fantasy Book Review

 Book Synopsis

Caspyn hunts Fae.
Since the day the vile monsters killed his sister he has made it his goal to end them all.

Stories spread through Okivo about the hunter, the Wanderer, who hunts the Fae that once enslaved his kind and harvested their magic. Magic that Caspyn still has, Magic that could get him killed if The Queen were to find out what he held… or what he knew.

Which is why Caspyn isn’t just hunting Fae. He’s working his way closer to The Queen, and to the Princess who lore says is the only one with magic strong enough to end The Queen. If he hopes to undo the scourge that is coming and save his sister from the dangers the Queen is about to unleash against them all he must reach the powerful Princess before it is too late.

The Princess who has been rumored to have no magic.

Princess Elara has been locked away since her Catalyst died, the magic that defined her as part of the royal family of Okivo dying with him.

Elara is kept under lock and key, guarded by a man shrouded in black who is not allowed to speak. Desperate for her mother's acceptance and a life outside of the walls she is kept in, Elara finally finds the courage to stand up to her mother, only to find herself in greater danger.

There is something that is growing and brewing inside of her, a magic that shouldn’t be possible without a Catalyst; a secret that her guard knows the truth about - but he must find his voice again to share it.

When Elara finally makes her move, she comes face to face with a man who has been clearly trained to kill, and sent to end her. Except, he’s asking for her help.

The Crimson Stained Catalyst is the first book in The Last Fae King Series, a danger filled adventure of Fae, Magic, Lies, and above all Love in an epic fantasy world. This first installment of this slow burn Romantasy series is perfect for those who love:

• Deep world building and unique magic systems
• Magical royals with secrets and vendettas
• Dangerous anti heroes with (possibly) noble intentions
• Strong and brave heroines who aren’t afraid of a little danger
• A Fae world with magic and romance
• Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Holly Black

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Imdalind Press (July 14, 2024)
• Genre: Fantasy
• Series: The Last Fae King Book 
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 598 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1949725685

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

This expansive fantasy novel spans over 600 pages and is the first book in a series, with rich world-building. The index at the start, detailing the magical system, proved especially helpful; I took photos for quick reference during my reading. The story is told through various viewpoints. The author has crafted a Fae realm brimming with magic, romance, adventure, deceit, and unexpected turns, particularly towards the end. 

As this is a series, I expect the romantic aspects to deepen in the next book. I especially loved the exploration of the new magic system and how well-developed the characters were, particularly the impressive villain. I do look forward to further character growth in the second book as the story expands.

Set aside time to fully enjoy this thrilling new epic fantasy. Although there is a minor cliffhanger at the end, rest assured that the next book will hopefully be released soon.

****Meet Author Rebecca Ethington****

HELLO THERE! I’m Rebecca. I‘m an author, a mother, a dog lover, a rock climber, a player and creator of video games and all around adventurer. A passionate person with an immense amount of drive, my writing has been described as “INTERESTING AND INTENSE” BY USA TODAY.
With a whole lifetime of writing, I have over sixty published novels under two names and have garnered years of social media marketing experience, business management, and even a little bit of web design: I am a creator who enjoys building new ideas and infecting imagination into everything I touch. 

Learn more about Rebecca and her books

HEREL https://www.rebeccaethington.com/

~*~*~*~*Purchase The Crimson Stained Catalyst~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://amzn.to/3y0q3Bn

Kindle-https://amzn.to/4bVHAbQ

Hidden in the Night {Book Three in the Missing in Alaska series} By Elizabeth Goddard- Romantic Suspense Review

 

Book Synopsis

At the behest of her ailing mother, former FBI special agent turned rare-book collector Ivy Elliott arrives in Alaska to secure an unpublished Jack London manuscript kept secreted away for decades. But when she arrives, she learns the manuscript is gone--taken by the granddaughter of the woman who possessed it. Ivy sets off in pursuit, not just to save the manuscript but to save the vulnerable girl, who was previously trafficked and has no idea what she's getting herself into.

Joining forces with Alaska State Trooper Nolan Long, Ivy must battle a blizzard, sabotage, and the worst of an Alaskan winter as the search goes on. But every answer they find only raises more questions--and the danger to their lives and to the missing girl may only be the tip of the iceberg.

Don't miss this breathtaking race for truth set amid the glorious--and deadly--Glacier Bay from USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell (June 4, 2024)
• Genre: Romantic Suspense
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 336 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0800742060

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

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My Review

Author Elizabeth Goddard has quickly risen to the top of my favorite authors' list. "Hidden in the Night" firmly establishes her as a must-read author.

 "Hidden in the Night" revolves around piecing together clues to locate a Jack London manuscript that contains a hidden treasure map. The situation is intricate because the "pieces" include: 

• The manuscript is probably in Alaska.
• Alaska's Indigenous people have a history tied to the treasure.
• The true thief and those searching for the manuscript remain a mystery.
• A band of saboteurs will stop at nothing to get their hands on it.
• The plot includes serious threats like kidnapping, murder, and human trafficking.

In this third book of the 'Missing in Alaska' series, we follow Alaskan State Trooper Nolan Long and Ivy Elliott, a former FBI agent. They had a brief meeting in an earlier book but now join forces to find the manuscript and a missing local girl. As they work together, they face many dangers and struggle with growing feelings for each other. Their slow-burn romance feels real and fitting for the story.

Kudos to Elizabeth Goddard for her vibrant and imaginative language that vividly brings scenes to life. After reading this series, I feel as though I’ve traveled to Alaska numerous times. 

Additionally, characters from the first two books reappear in the third book, which I enjoyed. While each book can be read as a stand-alone, reading them in order offers a much richer experience. 

If you enjoy the Romantic Suspense genre, "Hidden in the Night" and this series are absolute reads. Goddard masterfully blends excitement, unexpected twists, romance, and faith in this thrilling adventure.This captivating and thought-provoking novel is perfect for cooling down the heat this summer.

****Meet Author Elizabeth Goddard****

Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than sixty novels, including the Missing in Alaska and Rocky Mountain Courage series. Her books have sold nearly 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader's Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award and HOLT Medallion finalist. When she's not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website.

https://elizabethgoddard.com/

~*~*~*~*Purchase Hidden in the Night~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://amzn.to/3y0IXI7

Kindle-https://amzn.to/3Wo8hkN

{{Books in the Missing in Alaska Series}}