Circus of the Dead (Circus of the Dead #1) by Kimberly Loth | ARC | A Book Review

It's been a while since I last read a Kimberly Loth. I have missed her stories. They've always been so fascinating and intriguing. Waiting for the next book in the series was a pain and a form of torture. But it always ends up all worth the effort because it's always full of surprises that come from nowhere. I will always be an avid fan of her stories. And with this new book, I was reminded of how I have always enjoyed her stories. How her characters have made me hopeful and inspired in spite of all the hardships and stresses in the world. 

Circus of the Dead is just what it says. A circus full of horrors. Nasty clowns whose goal is not to make someone happy but miserable. A real deadly circus where there's always someone who ends up dead. There are ghosts and vampires too. It's not a place of fun, not unless you're a masochist or a sadist or think that seeing blood is fun. It's a place for the morbid and people who have a death wish. How Callie ends up in this horrible place is unfortunate. What was supposed to be a fun summer vacation with his Uncle in New Orleans, turned out to be a living nightmare she might not get out alive. 

This story reminds me of Stephen King's Bazaar of Bad Dreams. The only bright spot in the whole story is Callie who is full of spunk and will never give up. I guess, if it were someone of lesser strength and personality than she is, that person would have succumb to all the temptations already just to end everything. But not Callie. I root for her. Every attempt that she tries to get out of the island, I totally want it to succeed. Unfortunately, some greater magic is at work here that Callie has yet to understand in order to beat it and get out of the island and back to the loving arms of her family. 

I think the story is a bit relevant in this current time because with the Covid-19 pandemic, we are all like Callie, trapped in an island in New Orleans and finding a way to get out back to sunny California. And like some of the visitors of the circus, sadly, some people did not know that the time they spent at the circus, whether they were there out of curiosity or due to peer pressure, is actually their last time on earth. And like Callie, we try our best to stay alive in this forsaken island while biding her time until she can think of a way to get out for good.

The Circus of the Dead, just like the current pandemic reminds us of what's important in life. Family, friends and just the basic necessities. All else are unnecessary and we can do without. We will survive if we keep our wits and take one day at a time. And just like Callie, learn about the surroundings, the people and never lose hope. For Callie, she has to stay alive to get out of the island. She can't lose sight of that goal. She has to remind herself of that every day. 

I did enjoy the story even though it's a bit morbid and gruesome. But then again, every reader is forewarned. The title itself tells you that. Read at your own risk. But even so, as I have said, Callie's character is just so strong and she's a fighter. I think she was purposely lured to this place because there's something in her. I am not sure if she has a certain special ability of supernatural kind but she is special. And I would hate to say it but Samuel would rue the day he met Callie. I have faith that Callie will beat all odds and get out of the island and maybe bring back sunshine and hope to all the cursed inhabitants there also. But that's just me looking so far ahead. 

I give the book 5/5 gutsy fire dancers. This book is not for the faint and chicken-hearted. If you are a fan of Stephen King, you'll definitely love this story. If you've been following Kimberly Loth as I have, this is another story to be excited for. This type of story coming from Loth does not surprise me at all. With her talent of coming up with incredible and fascinating tales of adventures, I, in a way have expected she will likely come up with this one. I am excited and psyched as to what other horrors and blocks Callie has to go through in order to finally be back to the real world and be with her family again. I am also sure that Callie, with her mindset and attitude, will never let anything defeat her. She will find a way. I know she will. I guess, the best thing about Loth's stories are her characters. They're simply not to be messed with. They would find a way to beat the enemy or find a way to go around the obstacle. And I have a feeling that Callie's the type who can think out of the box. With that kind of thinking, I know she will outsmart Samuel. I bet on it. Watch out Samuel!

He's got that look that is dangerous but devastatingly handsome. The kind of guy who is sure to treat you like crap and yet, you run back to him because his kisses curl your toes. 

Not very good clowns unless their mission in life is to make everyone else as grumpy as they are.  

- Kimberly Loth, Circus of the Dead #1 - 

Thank you again, Kimberly Loth for the advanced review copy. I have missed you. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series. 

Leah and Rhea (Spell #1) by Melissa Hines Helms | A Book Review

It's the fourth month since this pandemic has wreaked havoc and in a way, rearranged and disrupted our lives. I lost work for about two months and fortunately, I got reassigned to a another project about two weeks ago. That is something to be thankful for in this time of chaos in my country because of government officials doing a bad job. Instead of prioritizing the need to resolve and end Covid19, they are playing gods and flexing their powers to suppress freedom. It's a very sad reality. It's like another dictator is sitting in his throne and anyone who dares speak a wrong word will be thrown out to the dungeon or will forfeit  his life. 

In the midst of all these stressful events happening, I'd still like to think that good will always triumph over evil. That my country, no matter how horrible the situation its facing, is still a land of people who will fight for freedom, equality and end corruption. Like all the heroes who came before us, I believe this little archipelago in the Southeast is still home to a lot of men and women who will never ever let this country and our brave ancestors down. And I am one with that fight even if sometimes I want to just go and live somewhere else, if only migrating to another county is that easy. The events in my country are discouraging and you can't help but think about a very dim future. But as always, Filipinos are optimistic and we often look at the brighter side of things. We are also too forgiving which is also a curse because most of us tend to forget the wrongs done in the past and some of these perpetuators of those wrongs are again back in the government pillaging the country's coffers for personal gain. 

So, with the stress that's leeching all the positivity everywhere, I decide to just read books, listen to uplifting and relaxing music and watch K-dramas or movies that are projecting good vibes. Leah and Rhea is one. These two fairies will go against the mighty and powerful witch who put a spell on the whole forest. These two little beings will risk their lives to save the forest and their animal friends. Yes, this might be another David and Goliath story but it's a lot cuter and kid-friendly. 

Lea and Rhea are twin fairies who never discovered what their magic were. Their parents became stars in the sky when they were young. They never had anyone teach them about magic so all they have to do to survive is use their wits and of course, fly. That, at least, is something very useful for a fairy. 

This is a really good bedtime story for kids. It speaks of the bond of sisters, friendship, risking one's life for the good of the many and bravery. The story is not so unique but it got its point across. Good will always triumph over evil and nothing is really over until you stop trying. Our two friends, met very helpful and interesting characters along the way in their search to find the ingredients to reverse the spell of the evil witch Matilda. These characters are Khuno and Bunny who are rabbits; Win the Winking Willow Tree, Felda, Matilda's sister who is fortunately the good sister and the last older fairy; and finally, another fairy who can't talk - Troy. These characters helped the sisters make the reverse potion, bring back the whole forest to life and ended Matilda's reign of terror.

I actually enjoyed reading this book. I remember, I was a bit down and I wanted something to cheer me up. This book did it. It somehow uplift my spirit. It is so straightforward. It is so easy to read. It is also like a coming of age story for both of our fairies. These two fairies who don't know a single magic and has never left their forest has to reverse the curse that Matilda cast on the whole forest. As a consequence of ripping out the reverse spell from Matilda's book, Rhea was also affected by a curse. To save everyone and her sister, Leah and Rhea had to go separate ways to continue on their quest. These two had never been separated their whole lives so it was a very scary thing. But they each succeeded in their own task - Rhea to prepare the reverse spell and Leah to find the last and elusive ingredient for the spell to work. In the end, the evil is vanquished and the whole forest woke back to life. 

I give this book 4/5 pairs of colorful fairy wings. If I were a kid, I would surely love this book if I have read it when I was younger. It was very straightforward and all the language and tone of the story was very fitting for young audiences. If I have kids, which I still don't, but in the future, I would surely tell them of this tale. There were no very violent or gruesome scenes. It was filled with exciting adventures, if only the fairies were not pressed for time or fighting for their lives. I think this would make a good animation. I really had fun reading this book and it somehow made me forget about my worries, if only for the moment. I was rooting for the twin fairies to succeed and that only happened because these two refused to give up even if the odds they were up against were too much for them. This too applies in real life. You can't give up unless you give your all. You can't say you will fail if you haven't tried anything. And if by chance, you really fail, at least you gave your all. That alone speaks volumes. You won't look back with regret because the greatest tragedy is not moving an inch when you know you could have done something even if that does not guarantee the results. That's life. Nothing is guaranteed. You do your best and if you fail, you get up and try again. 

I could not find any quotable quotes in the story but I will let you in on how this story came about. This story came to Melissa when she was doing her undergraduate studies and was working part-time as a nanny for an adorable four-year old girl named Grace Farver Needlman. Grace had a terrific imagination as most kids do and Melissa needed to come up with engaging stories everyday for their drive home from preschool. And that's how Leah and Rhea's adventures started.

Thanks again, Melissa Hines Helms for the review copy. Sorry the review took ages. 

Terminal 19 by L. R. Olson | A Book Review

Yesterday, I watched the movie Ford versus Ferrari starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale. It's based on a true story of Ken Miles, Carol Shelby and the Ford GT40. The only car to ever defeat Ferrari and won 4 straight years in Le Mans. Le Mans is a 24-hour car race and Ferrari always won it. It was a very inspiring story of two people who broke records and who refused to give in to bureaucracy and just followed their guts against all odds. It's a story of friendship, of the great drive to be better and to never give up in spite of everything stacked against them. 

How the movie relates to this book? Just like our two heroes in the movie, Miles and Shelby, Hope is also battling something a lot bigger than her nineteen-year old self - cancer. She was diagnosed five years ago and she has given up hope of ever be cured of it. It's ironic, right? Being her name is hope, but she has come to terms that she may just have two or three years tops to live. Her family and friends on the other hand, refuses to even think of that eventuality. 

So, as she might not have more years to live, Hope decided to actually do something she had long wanted to do - travel to Scandinavia. Why Scandinavia of all places? She had family there. Her dad was from Denmark. Aside from that, she just had this urgent need to go there. So, she kind of guilt-tripped her Mom to allow her to go and besides, she's meeting her cousin Faith there also. She's not exactly alone. In terms of the risk of her dying in another country, well, that might be a possibility but she refuses to dwell on that. She will have the best time of her life, if this is going to be her last. And besides, it had been years ago when she last had an attack. The doctor said her cancer is on status quo. Meaning, no improvement and it's not getting worse. 

So, off she went to Copenhagen and on her first day, she met a Scandinavian hottie. Yes, like model hot, who for the first time in a long time, made Hope embarrassed. He made her feel normal after a long time. She had gotten used to being examined by doctors wearing next to nothing that being embarrassed has become a bit alien to her. This trip, Hope wants to be anonymous, just like any other tourist. And best of all, people don't have to know that she's sick. She can be normal or pretend to be normal for a month and experience new things. To feel alive again because it's been a such long time she felt truly alive. 

Ahhh...this story is so full of hope that I too wanted to rush off and go to Scandinavia. To feel as alive as Hope felt, experiencing the sights, sounds and smell of Denmark, Norway and Finland. And finding my own Scandinavian hottie would be just the icing to it all. I wouldn't even complain. My own Christian or Thor. My wanderlust and thirst for new adventures and experiences was fueled by this story. If only. Maybe someday. 

This story just proved that when you step out of your comfort zone, it's when amazing and unexpected things happen. Just like Hope, going to Scandinavia was the best thing she did and if she'd only known that it was the best for her, she would have done it sooner. Scandinavia did amazing things to Hope, including to her illness. Happiness and joy are the best cure and Hope has found hope again. Hope to believe again that she might live longer. Heck, she wants to live longer and do more. She knows she can do more. 

This is a story of going beyond our limits and believing that life has a way of surprising us in the best way possible. Yes, it sucks most of the time, but when it gives out surprises, nothing will ever make you be ready for it. There's nothing else you can do but thank the universe for being generous and for being the lucky recipient of that fortune. So, if you're going through something horrible and impossible right now, fear not, it's not going to be permanent. The universe will find a way to make up for your misfortunes, as long as you keep hoping and have an open mind. Nothing is set in stone and the tides may yet turn in your favor. 

So, with that said, I give this book 5/5 Danish kroner. Yes, this Danish coin was the key to hope meeting Christian who helped bring hope and sunshine to her almost fading life. And their first meeting was embarrassing yet funny. This story, in more ways, will make you alive and cry at the same time. But mostly, hope. You will hope that you too may find or experience something as incredible as what Hope experienced in Scandinavia. That like Hope, even if it would be the last days of your life, something amazing will blow you away and that you will no longer fear dying because you have truly lived, even for a moment or for a few days. It's in the satisfaction of knowing that I may have lived only once but hell yeah, I lived. 

I wasn't supposed to come here to fall in love with life. I was supposed to come here as a last hurrah, to say goodbye to life. And suddenly, whereas before dying seemed like a relief, the thought of leaving no longer holds any appeal. 

It reminded again that death doesn't just affect the dead. It affects the living much, much more. 

- L. R. Olson, Terminal 19 -

Thanks again, ebooksforreview, I am a reader and L. R. Olson for the review copy. I am sorry this review took forever. 

Super Me by Jessica Dazzo | ARC | A Book Review

I got this from the Contact Us form of this blog. The author's husband, Mike, reached out and asked if I wanted to review his wife's book. I agreed, so here it is. 

I would like to apologize to Jessica and Mike Dazzo for taking a long time to get this review posted. I appreciate your understanding.

I've read this about a few months ago, more like sometime in 2018. So, when I was writing this review, I was trying to remember what stood out for me in this story. Unfortunately, I couldn't remember. Yes, I came up blank. I can't even remember what the story was about and why it was called Super Me. So, the ending was I have to browse through the book again. Reading through my highlighted passages but still nothing seems to jump at me. Last resort was to reread the book from the start. I know, it's ridiculous but it's my bad because I didn't write a review right away and my mind have gone through a few holidays. It seemed like it had archived all the data and I can't seem to retrieve them. Or maybe, it's because the book did not really leave a strong impression or imprint on me. Well, rereading the book will definitely prove or disprove that assumption. Let's find out.

So, the story started with the main character- Faye, hearing things differently. Actually, the story started with Faye hearing the name Lucan. Yes, she thought it was weird but when it started to happen very often, she stared thinking that her own mind is betraying her. And here's the fun part, a cute boy with the name Lucan transferred to her school. Is that coincidence or what? The troubling part is the name is the reason that mostly gets her embarrassed. One time, they were in class and she was asked to read for a character in Romeo and Juliet and she read something in the book that goes, "my Lucan" which was not actually what was written in the book. She was so humiliated that she can't get out fast enough from the classroom. 

So, how did it feel rereading this book? It actually felt like the first time. I can remember that I exactly felt the same emotions reading some of the sad parts of this story and going teary-eyed again. I mostly remembered the emotions, although what the story was about and how it went only came to me when I was more than halfway through my second reading of the book. I am not sure why I have no retention of the story. I might have probably slept-read through it the first time. Even as I tried to read some reviews to refresh my memory, nothing really stood out and sparked my memory. So, to be honest, I did not regret rereading this book. It was all worth it because the story has a way of making you involved. It was a way of making you a part of Faye's struggles. They're real enough that you won't say that this is all too much teenage drama. I do admit, the supernatural part was a bit unexpected. Yes, I too think that Faye's mind was betraying her. That she might have a mental condition. Good thing, though that it was far from that. 

In spite of the fact that the book left me no impression or anything as a point of recollection for me, I actually enjoyed reading this one for the second time. And believe me, I don’t' like rereading books or watching a movie for a second or third time. Though I did that about a time or two. I can't exactly remember what movie that was that I re-watched but I did it because I want to remember how the story went. Yes, I only do redo's when my memory seems to be failing. But I will definitely say, I have a very sharp memory. I can remember faces and names of classmates from grade school and some other things. Having said that, I do believe that this story was written with enough dose of reality in it or as real as it gets. I know I caught myself a few times on the brink of crying. I just had to check myself because I was at the office when I was reading again this story. Don't worry, I really had nothing to do. I am waiting for another set of accounts to be worked on which were still coming. I have hit my target on the first set of accounts and had only three problematic ones to follow up on. 

Anyway, I give this book 4/5 pairs of well-worn and comfortable snow boots. The story has a way of making you comfortable with Faye. At the same time, you will feel all her struggles to the point that you will feel uncomfortable. You will think of Faye as your friend and hope for the best that she will eventually be able to deal with all her issues. I won't call them "teenage drama" because calling it drama would be downplaying the seriousness and gravity of her situation. She has a lot to deal with including raising her mom who I think has a lot of growing up to do and should pay more attention to Faye. Faye deserves a better mom. It felt like she's the female version of Atlas with a lot of things thrust on her very young and vulnerable shoulders. No kid should be parenting a parent. That's definitely messed up and felt like the world has fallen off its axis. Sad but it's a reality to some teens. 

And why can't the world just go on pause for a second so I could have a breather?

-Jessica Dazzo, Super Me-

Thank you again Mike and Jessica Dazzo for the ARC. Again, sorry for the very delayed review. 

Lineage (Elemental Ninjas #2) by Mon D. Rea | ARC | A Book Review

This is book two of the Elemental Ninjas. I had a paperback copy of book one given by the author and he also gave me an ebook copy of book two to review. Thanks again Mon D. Rea. 

This continues the adventure of Sakura and Temujin. This time, another one joins their crew- Sasha. This was the same Sasha who Sakura played with when they were younger. The same kid who helped Sakura broke through the vault for the scroll. This time, he's also grown, just like Sakura and wants to go on an adventure of his own and wants to prove much about himself. So, will this trio get more things done or just get into more trouble?

This could be summed up as Sasha's adventure. It's because it focused more on Sasha. It doesn't mean that Sakura and Temujin were left out but it's just that most of the story is spent on Sasha's school and here, Sasha has to face some of his fears. Before the story ends, the three have to fight for their lives which was what was expected when they embarked on this quest but hoping to not happen. Unfortunately, it happened just too soon. 

Even if this story had more Sasha in it than Sakura and Temujin, or all three of them, it was still very engaging and entertaining. I still enjoyed it. I guess, it's a good way to introduce Sasha and showcase what he can do and contribute to the team. And with how his adventure in the school went, there was a lot he can contribute. He, in some way, has mastered some of his skills and has mastered a part of himself. He has conquered one of his fears and proved to be the hero, instead of some loser who's joke was on him. 

In this story also, the tension between Sasha and Temujin to fight for Sakura's attention is a bit coming to the surface. Temujin is now feeling that Sasha might prove to be a very good rival for Sakura's heart. Not too mention, that these two- Sakura and Sasha, were best friends and now reunited. These two have a lot of history together and what would Temujin have to top that. So, I'm welcoming this growing tension and I am not sure yet who I will be rooting for, but I'm leaning towards Temujin because he's more of the underdog in this rivalry. At the same time, the thought of falling in love with your best friend from childhood who is very familiar and comfortable, is not a very bad thing also. Hmmm...who will likely end up with Sakura's heart? For now, Sakura is not showing any clues or signs as to who she is more partial with. It seems, for now, this two boys hold their own place in Sakura's affections because they both shared an experience(s) with Sakura. But who will eventually hold her heart in his hands is still a big question. For now, Sakura's focus is just on their quest and to make sure that the scroll will not fall into evil hands. 

Though, this showcased more on Sasha's character development, I am glad that the author did not lose sight of the whole story. This side adventure of Sasha actually has a connection to the trio's quest as a whole. They have found valuable information that might just actually be a key to helping them with defeating the enemy. I didn't expect to actually find out about that. It was done very cleverly that you won't be expecting that there was actually a bigger picture in that little pit stop on their way to their destination. Wow!

I give this book 5/5 hippocamps. Hippocamps meant sea horses but they're reptiles. Sasha's mastery of the blue ninja's technique to call out to marine animals is very impressive. This reminds me of Percy Jackson being able to ride Pegasus and his ability to command the sea and communicate to its creatures. I am looking forward to learning more what Sasha can do. He's hell-bent on proving everyone that he's grown and can stand his ground, especially his family and the people at his school. I also liked the special surprise at the end of the story. That was really special and it calms my heart to know that these trio will not be alone and unguided in their adventure. Someone is tracking their progress and is also rooting that these unassuming heroes will succeed in their quest. So, at this point, I don't know what to expect next. I am just excited to follow these three to where they will take me. So, onward to the next stop, adventure, lessons that await. 

Give hope to others even when you leave none for yourself. 

Most of us were just too shy to express our feelings to others, and it was human nature to take time for granted, thinking that keeping our feelings secret was a good thing. We would leave words of appreciation unspoken till it was too late. 

- Mon D. Rea, Lineage -  

 

Into the Moonless Night (Moonfall Mayhem #3) by A. E. Decker | ARC | A Book Review

I've been waiting for this book. This is the third installment in the Moonfall Mayhem series. As what the author confided in me, this story is about Catch. The second book hinted that this story might be about him. Thanks Miss Decker! So, I'll now be able to understand what makes Catch tick and the mystery that surrounds him.

I read the second book of this series in October 2016, so it's been almost a year. This has been truly a long wait but I don't mind because this story has a lot to tell. A lot of secrets that got unearthed. Old wounds that get reopened and old rivalries that got revived. Issues that were left unresolved were tackled here and new friendships and alliances were formed also. Yes, a host of new characters which are very very interesting are introduced. New enemies have come into the light too. This book is totally still a mayhem.

As I have said, this is Catch's story. This installment would take us to the birthplace of Catch, the Clawrags, and delve into his history. His friends, in order to rescue Catch, followed his steps to his home and along the way encountered their own set of adventures. There were some references to some famous fairy tales though, like the house of the witch in Hansel and Gretel. That was the most hilarious part of the story, especially with its very eccentric homeowner and cauliflowers. 

In this story, again Rags-n-Bones, Dmitri, Moony, and even Nipper, pitched in to get them to succeed in their adventures and quests. I think Rags again proved to be very impressive and he used what he had learned in Widget to help the team here. Moony also just keeps on getting funnier and wittier. I think I'd like to keep him as a pet. There would be no dull moments with him around and he's just so full of himself but in such a very cute way. Instead of being irritated because of his overconfidence, you will just be amused at his antics and witty comments. The "catch the flag" thing also was very fun. It's one of the highlights of the story and again, Team Ascot took the prize.

I really enjoyed this adventure although, it was slow going at first. Not a lot was happening until they got to the house of the witch. That house really cracked everything up, literally and figuratively. And then, after that, I think all hell broke loose because a lot was happening and a lot of developments were presented. I think, the last part of the book was loaded with everything- discoveries, fireworks, and all. And again, it sets me up for the excitement for the next installment. New characters are introduced which are going to play a vital part in the story. I can't wait to know what's going to happen next. This time, I'm not sure who's going to take center stage. I guess, if it's going to be the conclusion already, then there would be no need for that but to just tie up all the loose ends neatly and beautifully.  And that includes the love angle. Hopefully.

I give this book 4.5/5 cauliflowers. The same way as avocados make the second book memorable, this story is made hilarious and unforgettable because of cauliflowers. Oh, my goodness, I'm still amused every time I remember what this vegetable is doing in this story. Just simply hilarious. I think I can still smell it while typing this review. 

That was the trouble with being a dedicated liar: occasionally you fooled even yourself. 

Sarcasm. It was something that just blossomed with adolescence, like spots. 

- A. E. Decker, Into the Moonless Night - 

Thanks again, World Weaver Press and Miss A. E. Decker for the ARC. 

Other Books in the series:

The Falling of the Moon (Moonfall Mayhem #1)

The Meddlers of Moonshine (Moonfall Mayhem #2)

Starr Gone (Starr Fall #3) by Kim Briggs | A Book Review

This is the third part of the series and it is far from over. More revelations have sufficed which is a surprise both to Starr and her friends. It seemed like the General have more pawns in the game. Now, what would Starr do? What would her friends do?

I am not yet sure how I feel about all the things that happened in this installment. There were some good things and some parts which I am not too happy. I did suspect that some of Starr's old friends may make a comeback because their disappearances were very suspicious. True enough, they're back. In as much as I may have suspected it but then I was still surprised when they showed their faces. It turned out, they were not really her friends. In fact, they were so jealous of her. Yes, those fake friends are very common in real life too. But don't worry, Starr has a solid set of very loyal friends who will scour the ends of the earth to find and rescue her. They will never abandon Starr.

At this point, I'm not sure who's using who when it comes to the people after Starr. Between her family and the General's group, each party seems to have their own agenda and Starr is in the middle of it. Talk about the proverbial "between a rock and a hard place." It's definitely where Starr is. But I'm guessing, Starr is just waiting for the best opportunity also to make her move. I know she will come up with something. Also, her friends are not just lying around helpless. They are planning her rescue also. So, it's a wait and see for the next book. Hopefully, the General's evil plans will finally be exposed and he would be punished for all his crimes and Starr would finally be able to stop running for her life and be a carefree teenager again.

With regard to the part where I was not too happy, well, there was a part that annoyed me. Of course, with the way the story has turned, not all of them are really in Starr's favor and it's a bit frustrating because I thought everything is going good for them. Also, some of the villains are really annoying and I can't wait to see if some of them will change their loyalties. It seemed like, some are not too happy where they are and may just be the key that Starr needs to get out of her current prison. We'll see. 

All in all, it's a surprising turn of events. I did not totally picture it but as I said, I did have an inkling that something like this may turn out. But then again, it was still a shock. Hopefully, good things are going to happen in the next book. So far, I have no idea or any theory as to how Starr and her friends are going to outsmart the General but I know they will come up with something. I hope it's going to be as surprising as what happened here. Something that would be totally unexpected.

I give this book 3/5 guns. 

I'm a china doll to be placed in a vacumm-sealed glass case on the very top of the tallest shelf to collect dust and grow fragile from lack of use.

- Kim Briggs, Starr Gone - 

Thank you again, Kim Briggs for the review copy.

The Exploding Sky (Sons of the Sand #4) by Kimberly Loth | ARC | A Book Review

Mother of Goddesses! I can't believe this series is over. The adventures of Gabe and Liv are over. No more running, lies, and secrets. Everything has been revealed and laid out. Anyone that has been hiding a secret has confessed. And my goodness, they were all so shocking and so jaw-dropping. Until now, I am still shaking my head in disbelief. 

True that, this book concludes the four-book series of genies and adventures. If you haven't started this series, start it now. Right at this minute. You will definitely not be disappointed. If you love magic, love stories, mythical or magical creatures, then this is the story for you. It's so enjoyable that you will find yourself stepping into the shoes of Liv and get carried away by all her experiences, worries, and adventures. A lot of characters here may seem ordinary and not note-worthy, very unassuming characters that will definitely surprise you. 

I have read this from the first book and now, this last installment. I have accompanied Liv in all her confusion, her exhilaration, her doubts, and all her fears. If I did not want to be Liv, I'm her older sister who wanted her to succeed in all the challenges that have been thrown to her throughout this story. Her character had developed beautifully as the story progressed and had come to terms with the changes and revelations that were part of her identity. She had surprised all those who wanted to hurt her and had tried so hard to protect those she loved. Here is another teen heroine who took me to various adventures, made me fear for her life, and have made me cry with her. It's sad that this story is ending but it ended with a lot of fireworks that I almost had trouble keeping up because they just came out right after the other without the chance for me to even breathe or think through them. 

Again, classic Kimberly Loth with all her surprises coming from everywhere will bombard you endlessly. I did not see these surprises, especially in this last book coming. Never ever. I have no idea. They were totally out of the blue. They just came down raining faster than you can say "What?" Yes, you will end up saying the word "What" again and again because of the numerous secrets and people owning up to secrets right after the other, literally. That was the best part of this book and I want to relive those moments again. Very priceless. I've never been hit with these multiple revelations before. Totally a first and a one-for-the-books kind of experience. 

I only expected that the book will end happily ever after and that the villain will be extinguished. Those expectations were met but what blew me entirely was it was more than I could ask for. Freaking absolutely beyond my imagination. I never ever thought of those twists to come flying right out to me like Aladdin's magic carpet. It was super fantastic. Literally and figuratively, the sky has exploded in this story. 

And with that said, I give this book 4.5/5 voodoo dolls. I love the surprises in this story and the whole series in general, but I think it's slightly not as emotional as the Stella and Sol series. This is a very good series and I did enjoy it but I just love Stella and Sol even more. I think the Stella and Sol was a more mature story than this one with a lot of depth and drew a lot of difficult and complicated emotions from me. I know where the differences lie between this and the former series and it's also because the main character of this story, Liv, is a teenager and her experiences and what's expected of were totally different from that of Zwaantie, but I just can't help but compare the two. Stella and Sol is deep and complicated and this one is loads of fun, lighter. This did not mean that this story disappoints. No, far from it. I absolutely love this, though I did point out a few things that I would have wanted to be more on this series. Nevertheless, this book ended with major fireworks which is just beyond any I could ever imagine. And fireworks are always grand.

Mother of Goddesses!

- Kimberly Loth, The Exploding Sky - 

Thanks again, Kimberly Loth for the ARC. I'm looking forward for the next series that will again take us to another adventure and get me to meet new characters and creatures. Congratulations!

Other books in the series:

The Smoking Lamp (Sons and Sand #1)

The Blazing Glass (Sons and Sand #2)

The Glowing Sands (Sons and Sand #3)

Incense and Peppermints by Cathrina Constantine | A Book Review

To be honest, I am not really a fan of the '60s. The decade of rock and roll, marijuana,  drugs, war, and other things. It's probably the reason why I haven't read a lot about this period or there weren't a lot of books that I've come across that interested me enough. Or maybe, I just don't care about it or have understood little about it. Well, this book is different. It somehow opened my mind about that period and to the fact that teenagers, no matter what decade they are from, in some ways are the same. And speaking of drugs, it wasn't just popular in that decade, somehow every generation has its own share and taste of it. The name and type of poison may vary or may have changed and evolved from generation to generation but nevertheless, it's one of the common things that become part of a teenagers right of passage through life. Personally, I haven't tried one. So, I can't totally relate to that part.

I think I signed up for this book because the blurb was interesting enough, though I had my doubts because of the era it was set. Much to my surprise, the story was very relatable and not so dated. I guess, part of it being YA has bridged that gap, if ever there was that generation gap. I was actually absorbed in the story and just had to finish it. One of the reviewers had the same reaction. 

As I have said, even if you were not born in the 60s, you will definitely end up liking this book. It mentions a lot of truths which are still applicable or are happening to teenagers today. As you read through the story, you'll feel like you're Mary, the main character. Caught up in a world of crushes, drugs, late nights, and all other adventures teenagers find themselves in. She even had her own share of abuse and what's worse, she didn't know who the guilty party was until some tragedy struck. Finding out the truth was very devastating yet it was also liberating for her. She ended up not hating the person but rather felt sorry for him because that person was going through a lot. Which actually speaks much about Mary's character and maturity.

This is actually a really good story about the 60s with a lot of lessons. Like I said, I was so surprised that I was actually drawn into the story. All the doubts I had, had disappeared and it made reading it all the more fun. I guess, it has to do with the characters. The characters were very relatable and could as well be the same way teenagers behave nowadays or from the other books that I have read. Somehow I have an impression that I might not like the book because it's in the 60s and it's a very unfamiliar era to me and somehow things might get lost in translation or something. But that was never the case. Nothing was lost in translation or in the haze at all. For that, I think I owe it the author's ability to bridge that gap. That in spite of the decades of distance from the readers generation, she somehow had made it like the story is timeless. The events in the story and the characters could well be millennials and you'll see that they'll exactly be going through the same things that happened in this story. That is a very great feat to accomplish. Congratz Miss Constantine!

And with that, I give the book 4.5 /5 peppermints. So, being a teenager, no matter from which generation you are from, you will experience the same things a teenager has to go through in order to pass through to adulthood. The same confusion, doubts, and sense of anything can happen or the feeling of invincibility will be there. The same issues and fears that plague the kids in the 60s are still the same issues that bombarded the youth of all generation. And that somehow, connects every reader to this story set in the 60s. A really fun and touching coming of age story of Mary who could well be just you and me.

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.

-  Cathrina Constantine, Incense and Peppermints -

Thank you again Xpressobooktours and Cathrina Constantine for the copy.

Coral and Bone (The Siren Chronicles #1 ) by Tiffany Daune | ARC | A Book Review

I know I have said before that I have read quite a few mermaid stories this year. This book is one of them. This is also a totally unique mermaid story from the others that I have read. The story is about mermaids and sirens. In here, the mermaids are the bad guys which is not usually the case. That alone is already a good start to story.

Halen is girl who got sparks from her fingertips. They're like lightning. Tage and her were running from a boy who just came into their house and they both ended up swimming out to sea. When Halen woke up, she was in a different world and secrets about her real identity and about her life had started to surface. One person who he thought was dead was actually alive and now, she must fulfill her destiny, destroy everything or run away from it all.

There was a part of the story that was a bit hazy for me. The part were Halen was talking to Asair in his lair was not so clear to me. Somehow, I did not care much about what their conversation was. In away, it was a bit uninteresting for me. I am not so sure. But I might have fallen asleep during this part. But I am glad that it somehow ended well, though it's obvious that there is a next book. Despite that part where I might have daydreamed or my mind was somewhere else, I actually wanted to read the next book. I'm curious as to what's going to happen Halen. The ending hinted that she somehow did not fully escaped the darkness and Asair's influence. So, that's what's to be expected in the next installment. How that part would come into play when Halen is not entirely herself anymore after her encounter with Asair is totally to watch for.  

Other than that, I think I enjoyed the story. The secrets and all the things that were kept from Halen are really interesting things that would keep you glued the story. Knowing that Halen actually have some other immediate family members that she still had to meet is also a good reason to follow the series. I am especially curious when that other family member will turn up and come face to face with Halen and if Halen will be able to free that person from whatever is keeping her.

And of course, the romance part of the story is also still in it's early stages, so a lot could still happen. I'm pretty sure when that long-lost family member makes an appearance, she will definitely cause chaos and confusion, especially with these two would be lovers --Halen and Dax. Definitely, that person will affect the relationship of these two.

So, there's a lot to be expected in the development of this story and that makes me so curious. I am still looking for a review copy of the second book and haven't found one yet. Hopefully, I would be able to because I wanted to find out if my theories are correct. So, with that said, I give this book 4/5 silver bracelets with star charms.

Every day is filled with impossibility, until you have chosen to see the possible. Once you make the shift to see, life is a less frightening journey. 

Love thrived with trust and wilted with lies. 

Forgiveness is as easy as love. Letting go is the hard part.

- Tiffany Daune, Coral and Bone - 

Thank you again Tiffany Daune and Ben of Oftomes Publishing for the copy. Sorry for the very delayed posting of the review. 

Emerge (Mer Chronicles #1) by Tobie Easton | A Book Review

I don't know how many mermaid books I have read this year. Honestly, I have read quite a few and each one is different from the other. It's actually interesting being able to read different takes and versions of mermaid stories. I've always loved Disney's The Little Mermaid. So, I was just so happy to find out that this book is a retelling of the same fairy tale though it's more on Hans Christian Andersen's version. 

This is a totally different version of Disney or Anderson's version. I think it's actually a refreshing adaptation which puts the famous Little Mermaid star on a darker shade. Yes, in this retelling, The Little Mermaid's story did not have a happy ending which provides a background story of how Lia's story came to be. So, following the events after The Little Mermaid's last action to claim her one true love, a war broke out in the mermaid kingdom. As an aftermath of that war, some Mer people decided to leave and stay on land and hide their identities.

I think, the thing that strikes me most about the story is the author's version of The Little Mermaid's story. I was impressed. I like it. I like it because it's such a very unexpected turn of events. It somehow puts The Little Mermaid in such a bad light that had caused a series of unfortunate events for her descendants and the rest of the Seven Seas. I think it's such a radical way of setting the stage for this retelling but I think it really works. It's totally an out-of-the-box way to put it and I just love it because it's so unforeseen. I would never have thought to actually think of the story going that way, especially, on my favorite fairy tale character and story. I don't know how many times I've watched The Little Mermaid or sang the OST and imagining I was Ariel. I'm just totally impressed by the background story. I just can't stress that enough.

Lia's character is very relatable because she's going through the same things teenagers are dealing with. Though, I'm sure, no one can relate to being a Mermaid on land. Anyways, she's been a really good teenager until she's forced to break the rules when the new girl seems to have a bigger chance of ending up with the boy she wants. It's a normal teenage love triangle until the secrets and the darker elements were added in. The competition now comes with much more devastating consequences. And the game changes because it's not just about natural charms and wit anymore, it's more than that. It's a much more threatening display of powers and abilities that is beyond the reaches of dry land. So, Lia is forced to tap into her family's ancient abilities and secrets to even up the playing field. The one that she was sworn to never ever do.

I love that this story has a mix of intrigue and mystery. I enjoyed Caspian and Lia playing detective. I also love that most of the characters in the story are named after precious stones. The last name Nautilus is also very perfect. It reminds me of Captain Nemo's submarine in Jules Verne's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. I enjoyed that story and the series adaptation SeaQuest very much. May Jonathan Brandis and Roy Scheider rest in peace. 

Ah, this is very exhilarating. It's refreshing. I give this book 5/5 swimsuits. I just love how this was adapted to the original Andersen story. Yes, sometimes happy endings are overrated and finding another story with a totally unique twist is just so entertaining. I can't wait for the next book. Good thing I already have it with me courtesy of Month9Books. I will soon dive into the world of Lia and her friends again. 

How can you narrow down to a few paltry words something that means everything?

- Tobie Easton, Emerge - 

Thank you Month9Books and Tobie Easton for the copy.