Showing posts with label paranormal romance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label paranormal romance. Show all posts

Monday, October 2, 2017

Nobody's Goddess (Never Viel #1) by Amy McNulty | A Book Review

Nobody's Goddess by Amy McNulty | A Book Review by iamnotabookworm!

I got this from Library Thing, I think last year but has been unable to read it until now. This story has paranormal, romance and time travel thrown into the mix. Until now, I am still unsure if I like the story but it was interesting.

I think what caught me with this is the title. Yes, what's a "Nobody's Goddess"? Satisfyingly, that question was answered in the story. 

Of course, judging by the title--goddess, the protagonist of the story is a girl--Noll. A young woman or a seventeen-year old whose love is unrequited. What's more painful is the person she loves and wants to be with is in love with her sister. Her best friend in the world is in love with her more-attractive-yet-lacking-in-personality sister. What a sad and cruel world!

In a world where women dominates and men have to wear a mask their whole life if his love or wife does not return his love. Or if the woman does refuse the man's love, the man is bound to find himself banished in the commune to live a life of poor distaste, grief and shame. Noll, wanting to find out who started this whole thing about a man loving and worshipping only one woman in his entire life, sought out the Master in the castle.  And that, later on lead her to an incredible experience in a time way far back from her own. What she found was the reason why women were treated as goddesses and who was the person responsible for it--the first goddess. And realizing the root of her problem was like a sharp slap to her face which stung a lot.

This is a sad tale. Finding out that the one you love does not love you back is painful but chooses to spend forever with your sister is adding salt to the already gaping wound. Then, finding out the person responsible for that sad reality is even more devastating. But the redeeming quality of the story is Noll's realization that she actually could do something to change things and give some men a choice to find someone else to love and not die in grief, when that other person does not return the love. It comes full circle and whatever mistakes or misdeeds done in the past will be better in the future. Oh, I would give anything to be able to do something like that. To change the present or the future by going back to some time in the past. Honestly, I don't have regrets. I can't take back or undo whatever happened in my life but there are times I wish my life was way better than it is now. Or the lot I was given in life, like what if my family were rich and I was not bullied or was an easy target for some people's rudeness. I am not sure if these would make my life a lot better but sometimes you just wish that you were someone else or some place else or circumstances were different. I do live a different life in my imaginings. At least, that is a lot safer, no collateral or irreversible damages.

I give this book 3/5 swords. The story is interesting and a very well-thought out plot but I was not so drawn into it. I am not sure if I liked Noll but she definitely has a very spirited and spunky personality which is very admirable. And I do feel sorry for her that her best friend is not in love with her. I do feel her but in some way, there is a part where I cannot totally relate to her. I do like her real name, Oliviere. It does slide off the tongue beautifully. I can't blame the Master wanting to call her by that name. It's a very unique name because it sounds like a name of a boy and a girl given that name is very cool. I wish my name is as cool as that.





I could live without love . I'd accepted that by now. I wasn't sure I could live without freedom.
- Amy McNulty, Nobody's Goddess - 



Thank you again Librarything and Amy McNulty for the copy.




The Smoking Lamp (Sons of the Sand #1) by Kimberly Loth | ARC | A Book Review

The Smoking Lamp (Sons of the Sand #1) by Kimberly Loth | ARC | A Book Review by iamnotabookworm!

Here comes another one from the master storyteller. I don't know where Kimberly Loth get her stories from but it seems that there is no way they are running out. Congratulations on this new series!

This story is definitely smoking hot! Not just the genie but the story is really out-of-this-world amazing. A totally new take on the genie-in-a-bottle tales. I think it's time we outgrow Aladdin and meet new genies. Yey!

As you may have noticed, I have reviewed quite a few of Kimberly Loth's books. Since I first stumbled upon one of her books, the first one was Skye, since then, I have always looked forward to reading a new book from her. Her stories just have a way of making me remember how I fell in love with books, stories and reading, in the first place. Her stories always take me to a different, new and magical world where I can take part and get swallowed in it. A world where I could step into the shoes of the heroes and feel like them. It is a world of endless possibilities where I am not constrained by anything. Worries or anything else.

This new story unlike the others takes the old and brought it out into the modern world. A genie was freed from his bottle-prison in modern-day America and was as lost and confused as expected. Luckily for him, he has someone like him who has been in America for a few years who can orient him about this new culture and new world. And that things are different now and the rules may have changed from about a thousand years ago.

I know I just met Liv, Ty and their ever-silent grandmother but I already liked them. Ty has my dream job. A travel photographer. Liv is her younger sister who sometimes tags along on his international travels. This story started in Egypt when Liv bought ten pretty bottles from an Egyptian souvenir shop as a gift for her friends in the US. And the rest of the story will smoke you out of your senses.

A main character that is in her most vulnerable because a boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend. A very loving and adorable brother who has the coolest job ever. A mute and mysterious grandmother who cooks very delicious food and pastries. Twin best friends who have an obsession with books and fictional characters. A genie who has been imprisoned in his bottle for far too long and there could be more of them. This is easily the mix of curious and interesting characters and adventure that you are looking for. What are you waiting for? Don't just stand there wishing, get the book now!

I give this story 5/5 old perfume bottles. I really enjoyed the story. It's far from Disney's Aladdin story we know. The genie here is not really that nice like Aladdin's genie but may actually kill his master. Scary right? Really, be careful what you wish for. I don't think I would wish for anything, if in exchange my life would be drained out of me. This is definitely a series to watch out for and follow. Well, I am on the author's ARC team already, if you want to join us, then join the Facebook group now! Don't miss out on this new and amazing story or your wish just won't be granted. 



Everything was better with cinnamon.

- Kimberly Loth, The Smoking Lamp -  



Other stories by Kimberly Loth--

Dragon Kings:

Stella and Sol:


Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Hale and Gemini (Alder Tales #3) by RS McCoy | ARC | A Book Review




It's live ! RS McCoy's third installment of the Alder Tales is finally out. Congratulations RS McCoy!

This is a re-imagining of the story of Hansel and Gretel. In this case, they are not siblings but rather friends - childhood friends who grew up together.

I have waited for this book to come out. The story just keeps getting better and better-more interesting, more engrossing and more surprising. I just love the surprises that came with this book. Things are looking really really good. Everything seems to be hopeful. But like all good things, they get worse before they get better. My favorite characters in this story had to go through pain, heartbreak and sorrow before they finally find the reason behind what fate had given them. And in the end, it all worked out for the best. Of the three books, this is probably the most hopeful, things are looking up and getting brighter for the Franes. But then again, classic RS McCoy leaves the readers open-mouthed and tongue-tied because something unexpected happened before this book closes. And that makes the readers even more addicted to this story.

Hale and Gemini (Alder Tales #3) by RS McCoy | ARC | A Book Review by iamnotabookworm!


Let's talk about Hale and Gemini. Hale is Blossom's third older brother and Gemini is Blossom's best friend. Hale used to comb and plait Gemini's hair when they were younger since Hale is Blossom's default bodyguard. He goes where Blossom and Gemini are. And since Blossom and Gemini are inseparable, Gemini sort of became Hale's adopted little sister. But that kind of relationship changed when they left the Alder forest to runaway from their pains and the reminders of these pains. Unexpectedly, these two were thrown together and in turn formed a bond that is different from what they had. A far stronger bond. Gemini became Hale's companion and the only person who understood what he was going through. And Hale, promised to protect and keep Gemini safe from all that threatened to take her away or harm her.

This book is more than what I was hoping for. It gave me more than I wanted and turned the story into a very fascinating adventure and quest for purpose. Each character started with a mission to find what other purpose s/he has to fulfill in life. Why s/he was given this specific lot and why not the other way around? As the story came to an end, they were answered. At this point in the story, everyone seemed to have found their place and things have sort of fallen into place. Which in truth what every reader expects or wishes for every story but in this case, you never see it coming. I never expected that things will be resolved because the story is far from over. And I understand, because some other issues took their place. New hurdles are to be overcome. This is good news because there is definitely another book. I hope this story does not end with the next book. I think two or three more books will do.

I give this book 5/5 tattoos of trees. I just love how this story is unraveling and progressing. I have no complaints. It is far more than I could ever imagine it to be. I am looking forward to the next three books of this series. Please... RS McCoy let there be more of this series. I am so privileged to have read this series from the start and I am hoping that I would be able to see this through to the end. I will make sure of it. Thank you so much RS McCoy for the ARC. Again, Congratulations! This is absolutely fantastic!



His life was nothing more than the rubble after an earthquake. Each piece was recognizable as something it had been before, but every facet of him was shattered.


Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3) by RS McCoy | Cover Reveal



 Hale and Gemini
Author: RS McCoy
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Fairytale Reimagining
Cover Designer: Kit Foster Design
Release Date: July 18, 2017


  











The third son of the Bear Clan, Hale thought he had his life figured out. He had a stunning bride, his iron faith in the Mother, and has spent the last five years training to be the future clan leader. But when his life comes crashing down around him, Hale knows he can’t stay home. 

Leaving behind everyone he’s ever known, Hale is alone with his thoughts as he crosses the Alderwood in search of his sister. Then Gemini—the clan flirt and known gossip—follows him, demanding his protection. She’s just as determined to leave her life behind. Hale doesn’t know what made her leave her sisters or suitor, but he has no choice but to continue with a helpless girl at his side. Neither ever expected just how dangerous the Alderwood could be. 


Oblivious of Hale’s departure, Parson and Raene travel to Terrana to ask political favors in exchange for their clan leader’s freedom, but lingering injuries threaten their arrival—and their lives. They’ll need the help of an unlikely ally if they hope to succeed. 






Rachel McCoy is a Texan living in New Jersey. Between binge-watching MTV reality shows and baking gluten-free treats, she writes paranormal fantasy and science fiction novels. She is the self-published author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays. 




Monday, May 29, 2017

The Lightning Luminary by RS McCoy | Blog Tour



Title: The Lightning Luminary
Author: RS McCoy
Genre: Urban Paranormal Romance
Cover Designer: Kit Foster Design
Now Available



Talia Stanley may look like the typical wealthy New Yorker, but she's hidden her secrets for more than a thousand years. One of the last surviving members of an ancient race called Luminaries, Talia has suppressed her ability to control lightning in exchange for safety. 

And for generations it worked. Talia's hermit lifestyle protected her from strong Luminaries that want her power. All that changed the day Mason Rathbone walked into her life. 

A good-looking artist, Mason is just the guy to get Talia out of her penthouse apartment and show her what it means to live again. But just as she starts to get comfortable, Talia gets sucked right back into her vicious past.







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To read my review of The Lightning Luminary, click here.







Dr. Hershey’s waiting room was as colorful and bright as she was. The walls were the color of fruit punch with large white polka dots. A massive swatch from Minnie Mouse’s wardrobe. The left side of the room was covered in large, multi-colored waffle pieces, with a tiny Crayola table with chairs, a box of toys, and a wall of kiddie books.

Mason froze mid-step. Clearly he was in the wrong place.

“Come on in, Mr. Rathbone.” Someone called from the depths of the office labyrinth. Mason followed the voice until he found Dr. Hershey buried behind a desk. It was cluttered with stacks of files and papers, binders and books, with jars of candy mixed in. Her pen scratched against a yellow legal pad, her brow knitted with concern over whatever it was she wrote.

“I thought I was in the wrong—”

She pointed her pen around the room without looking up. “My associate, Dr. Lemore, is a child psychologist. It helps them feel comfortable before their appointments.”

Mason looked around her white office. Various degrees and certificates hung on the walls. A few awards, even. Apparently, the sweet, little Dr. Hershey was quite accomplished. “And what about you? You pass out chocolates?”

Dr. Hershey reached into the nearest jar and fetched a fun-size Twix bar. Without looking, she tossed it at his chest. Mason caught it and smiled.

She put down her pen and leaned back into her chair. The new distribution of weight sank the chair back toward the ground. It almost looked as if she might tilt over backward. “How are you feeling today?”

Mason shrugged and thrust his hands into his pant pockets. In fact, he woke up rested and relaxed. He actually slept in a bit thanks to his appointment. “My brain didn’t try to kill itself, so I guess I’m feeling fine. And a nice lady gave me a chocolate.” He winked at her.

Dr. Hershey’s cheek twisted into a half-hearted smile. From the lively giggles of yesterday to this morning’s dreary mood, Mason could hardly believe it was the same person.

“You okay, doc?”

She nodded and put on a fake smile he was sure she used often. “One of my patients committed suicide last night. I was just going over her file—” Mason swallowed as Dr. Hershey rubbed her eyes. “But now, you’re here.” This time, the smile was easier, less forced.

“Aw, thanks doc.” His bashful act was dampened by the mention of her tragedy. Mason felt compelled to add, “I’m sorry for your loss.”

She nodded her thanks. “Who have you lost, Mr. Rathbone?”

The question made him uncomfortable, as if Dr. Hershey had known to ask. It wasn’t often he talked about his past, especially not with people he’d just met. Still, this was his doctor. “My mom. Breast cancer three years ago. My dad and brother when I was in high school.”

“Which explains why you have no next of kin.”

Mason thought that was a very polite way of saying he was an orphan.

“Any change in your condition?”

“Nope. Slept pretty well. And it’s only been twelve hours since I saw you at Sinai…”

“Have you tried using the microwave yet?”

“No, but—” Too late Mason realized she teased him. He shook his finger in the air and chuckled. “That’s a good one, doc.”




Rachel McCoy is a Texan living in New Jersey. Between binge-watching MTV reality shows and baking gluten-free treats, she writes paranormal fantasy and science fiction novels.

She is the self-published author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays. 



To connect with RS McCoy (or swap recipes), visit her on her website (www.rsmccoyauthor.com) or check out her Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AuthorRSMcCoy). You can also join her newsletter to receive release updates, free stories, and bonus extras (http://eepurl.com/YItp1). 


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Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1) by RS McCoy | A Book Review

Blossom and the Beast (Alder Tales #1) by R.S. McCoy Book Review

This is another re-telling. This time it's a different take on Beauty and the Beast. I love re-tellings. I think this review is just timely since a new version of Beauty and the Beast starring Emma Watson is coming out in theaters this March 2017. 

Blossom and the Beast is an absolutely endearing tale of two people of different backgrounds falling in love with each other more as each day passes. It will make you swoon and fall in love with Blossom and Kaide.

Kaide is my kind of guy. The serious and brooding on the outside but really sweet and thoughtful. One whose decisions are well-thought out and well-meaning. 

I love Blossom. She's a no muss, no fuss kind of girl which I would like to think I am also. One who is not concerned with pretty dresses and parties. Free-spirited and loves to discover the world on her own. Stubborn as a bull but also kind and smart. I think Blossom and I have a lot in common. She could well be my alter-ego.

I love Argeron Frane or more fondly called as DA. He is the embodiment of a great father and clan leader. If I were one of the citizens of Alder, I would like to be a Terra and be part of Da's clan. He is fair and wise. His actions and decisions are also very reasonable.

Having read two of R.S. McCoy's works, I should at least be little familiar with her writing style. Those burst of surprises within the story and on the last chapters. Those things should not surprise me anymore but I was caught with my jaw open. It was shameful but I admit it was very exciting as well. To be surprised over and over is the best thing every reader could hope. I was stunned and had to remind myself that I have book two ready to continue my journey. And that is one of the best things about R.S. McCoy, aside from spinning astounding tales, she is also generous. When she sends you an ARC, if there is a book that came before it, she will always include it. I bear witness to this generosity twice. 

I give the book a hundred beautiful blossoms. I relished every word in this book. I was transported to the forest in Alderwood and to the bustling city of Pyrona. An amalgamation of both the crude and the advanced. Where the lifestyles of the inhabitants are polar opposites. Where people are of varied temperaments and priorities. But is not a far cry from reality. I think it may even be an accurate mirror of what real events are.



I think it's time I include R.S. McCoy to my favorite authors' list. She deserves it. She has continued to astonish me with her writing prowess. Her ability to create characters that are not far from real people. Not larger-than-life personas but relatable ones. Her stories are so engrossing that I sometimes forget they are not real because I want to live in them. Thank you for the great stories. You rock!

I'm also going because I want to know what it is. I want to know what parts of me are the strongest. I know that might not happen, but I have to take that chance.
- R.S. McCoy, Blossom and the Beast - 


Thank you again, R.S. McCoy for the copy. 



Wednesday, November 9, 2016

IF by Spencer Michaels | Cover Reveal

IF by Spencer Michaels Cover Reveal banner


Title: IF
Author: Spencer Michaels

Genre:  Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Evatopia Editions
Cover Designer: Yosbe Design
Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR


IF by Spencer Michaels Cover Reveal


Blurb:
Does love true stand a chance against a hitman and the mob?

When Anna, a young naive girl, is forced into an arranged marriage to William Bakalar, a hitman for the Youngstown, Ohio mob, she never expects to risk everything by falling for another man. But Mark Banos, known on stage as Tom Marks, is everything to Anna...not just her love, but her destiny.

Tom, a quick-tempered night club performer, and Anna, an innocent psychic who toils away her days as a department store clerk, find romance. But their union is merely an undercurrent of what’s really at stake for this couple.

They share a deep connection beyond mere physicality, but that which is also spiritual. Their Twin Flame relationship, if not realized, will affect more than their hearts, but also the wellbeing of everyone. Together, they create a healing frequency that will maintain the balance of the planet. The world stands to lose their combined saving powers if they are not reunited.

Compared to Richard Matheson’s classic novels, “What Dreams May Come” and “Bid Time Return” about a man who travels back in time to court a woman, Spencer Michaels’ story, “If” provides a satisfying, page-turning journey for romance and fantasy readers.



Spencer Michaels is the pen name of father-son writing team Michael and Spencer Bennington. When friends ask how the collaboration began, son Spencer is quick to joke that Michael guilted him into becoming his writing partner. That wry sense of humor shows Spencer’s modesty as he is an Adjunct Professor of English and a doctoral student at the University of South Florida.

Prior to becoming a novelist, Michael Bennington worked as a professional musician for over 50 years playing night clubs, coliseums and even serving as back up to nationally known recording artists. He shared his love of music as a teacher for 13 years before retiring in 2012. These days his music is limited to playing at his church where he serves as choir director.

Spencer’s first book was inspired by what he believes is an inspiration to many a writer...the love of a beautiful woman. He also credits the stories his dad told about his early days as a nightclub entertainer with sparking his imagination.

Michael notes that his love of writing began accidentally when he suffered a stroke. Not being one to rest on his laurels, he launched into writing and convinced Spencer to jump on board. Michael lists The Baltimore Orioles as his other passion, along with single malt scotch.


Author Links: