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. 

Snow Owl (The Alder Tales #4) by R.S. McCoy | An ARC | A Book Review

The last book in The Alder Tales series. It's finally here and it's also sad because the series has ended. I would like to have more of Blossom, Kade, Parson, Raene, Hale, Gemini and Da. These amazing characters have become like family to me as I have seen them grow through the four installments. The tale is concluded and it's a mixture of emotions because then, there would be no more waiting for the next book. I will miss the build up of emotions and the anticipation that came with the waiting. Ah, but it was a very good run.

I think all the important characters in this whole tale have mobilized in this story. It's like all hands on deck. All the Franes and all those that are related to the Franes have to get involved and do something. Everyone has to chip in. Everyone needs to help. Now, it's not only the Franes who are in danger but the whole of the kingdom. 

A lot of things are happening at the same time in this last book. From start to finish, I was filled with tension and I was on edge. I wanted the plan of the Franes to work. I want them to succeed in their mission but it was not as easy as it was. The best thing about this story is it has done what all good last installments do. It tied all lose ends neatly and perfectly. I love how it ended but I wish there was one or two more books. I know the Franes have now found their happy endings and each have found the right person to complete them, but I wanted the story to not end there. I wanted to know how their lives will be after all that they have accomplished and survived.

Everything here comes full circle and truth be told, when you are unhappy you want everyone to be unhappy too. Since you suffered, you wanted people to do the same. When you were robbed off of your choices, you wanted to take that away from people too. Audra Mercer, the grand villain of this story, was a prime example of that and she represents a lot of hurt, miserable and selfish people here in the world that wanted the whole kingdom to feel the same way she felt too. I just wished she didn't have it easy at the end. She wasn't even repentant at all. I wished to pound her for all the torments and sufferings that she had caused just because she was so miserable. I almost thought that she was going to have a change of heart because I thought she might have just found the person she needed. Almost, but not quite. Right to the very end, she did not want to relinquished what little control and power she had left. Well, like in real life, not all villains realize that their end is near, so change is not to be expected. 

There were a lot of revelations here-- of characters, of motives and hidden agendas are now all out in the open. It's no time for subtlety or discretion anymore. The guilty are now made to pay for their crimes and sins. Allies have to band together for strength. A lot of very unexpected characters rose up to do the opposite also. Actions that were out of character.

Yes, I am happy with the story but again, I still could not get over the fact that this series is over. It hasn't sinked in yet. I wanted to have more. 

I give this book 5/5 snow owls. As I have said, the book is a very fitting conclusion to the series. It absolutely and certainly tied all loose ends. Everything that needs to be resolved was resolved and anyone that needs to pay for their crimes was asked to pay back all debts that were owed in one way or another. I perfectly did not expect all the revelations but it wasn't surprising at all too. They all made perfect sense and the dots all connected. 

But the secret to bravery is doing what's needed even when you're afraid.

- R. S. McCoy, Snow Owl - 

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

Other books in the series:

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1)

Raene and the Three Bears (The Alder Tales #2)

Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3)

The Snow Owl (The Alder Tales #4) by R. S. McCoy | Cover Reveal

The Snow Owl

By RS McCoy

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Fairytale Retelling

Series: Alder Tales Book Four

Cover Designer: Kit Foster Design

Pre-Order Available: February 1, 2018

Release Date: March 7, 2018

*A Paranormal Romance Retelling of The Snow Queen*

Audra Mercer is planning to destroy the world. Well, maybe just the realm. It’s taken almost fifteen years for her to rise from the ashes of trauma and place herself at the top of the Aero branch, the prime position to enact her plan to bring the branch hierarchy crashing down. She’ll spare no one and stop at nothing to secure her vengeance. 

As Mercer’s third in command, Blossom is drowning in secrets. She’s lying to her boss, her friends, her allies, her lovers. She’s playing both sides and hoping to have both her life and her happiness by the end. But one misstep will mean showing her colors before she loses everything. 

Following in the footsteps of Gemini’s kidnappers, Raene assumes a Terra identity and allows herself to be taken across the Alderwood. Parson secretly follows, but if he can’t keep up, they’ll lose both Raene and all hope of finding Gemini. 

Books by RS McCoy:

Sparks Saga:

    

The Lightning Luminary:

The Extraction Files:

   

The Alder Tales:

  

   

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 as well as numerous short stories, some of which now reside in anthologies. 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.

Author Links: 

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Charm (A Cinderella Reverse Fairytale) (Reverse Fairytales #1) by J. A. Armitage | ARC | A Book Review

I am also a member of J. A. Armitage's Facebook Group. I also get ARC's of her new books. I read this last month but was unable to post a review right away. This is another retelling of my favorite fairytale of all time--Cinderella. 

What kind of Cinderella story is this one? And what separates this from the other retellings done before? Well, this is totally different because it is a reverse-Cinderella story. Instead of Cinderella orphaned and left to the care of her step-mother and bullied and oppressed by her step-sisters, this Cinderella is a he. Yes, he is not some helpless damsel just waiting to be saved. Cynder instead is a kitchen servant and is attracted to the princess--Princess Charmaine.

I felt like the story is more focused on Princess Charmaine instead of Cynder. And I like it. Again, this retelling worked for me because it kept the spotlight on the heroine of the story which is the princess. I don't mind that Cynder is relegated to being a supporting role, though the love story would definitely not work without him. Just like in the original story of Cinderella, it narrated the story of Cinderella and less of the prince and as I have said, I liked that this one stayed on that track. This is a story of a girl.

So, this is a story of a princess who had to step in her dead sister's shoes to produce an heir for the kingdom. She had to choose from a line up of royalty, rich and honorable gentlemen to marry. But as the heart would have it, she falls in love with one who was never going to be in the list--a servant who washes dishes in the palace kitchen. And if that's not problem enough, an impending war is about to break out and threatens to throw the whole kingdom into chaos. Worst of all, Cynder, is found to be in the middle of all these things. Will this story have a happy ending?

This is probably the most suspenseful Cinderella story I have ever read. It's packed with action, politics and intrigue that added more color and spice to this retelling. I can't say this is the best retelling of Cinderella's story but it's definitely very interesting and engaging. I can't wait for the next book and what other problems and hurdles these two lovers will have to go through in order to keep and fight for their love. 

I give the book 4.5/5 fancy dinner plates. I love that the female character in this story is not some helpless damsel in distress. Princess Charm is indeed in distress here due to the responsibility and future of the kingdom being placed on her shoulders but she is one smart and daring lady. I am happy that in this story, she is not some meek person who just took all the beating. She is an empowered and intelligent woman and she is someone who is absolutely not going to just stand by and let things happen. I wished the original Cinderella was more like Princess Charm.

A mother's touch that could cure any ills, all except this one.

- J. A. Armitage, Charm - 

Thank you, J. A. Armitage, for the ARC.

Sprite by Anna B. Madrise | A Book Review

The Holidays are coming and this book is just in time. This felt like a retelling of The Christmas Carol. Remember the story of Ebenezer Scrooge? This story reminded me of Scrooge but only with some twists that make this its own.

I got this from the author's giveaway on Instagram. Can you believe it? I won six paperbacks from the author. Yes, I felt so lucky. This is the third book of that 6-book prize. Thank you again, Anna B. Madrise.

Sprite, not the carbonated drink but a supernatural being. They are similar to fairies but a little bigger, more like a little child. Their most distinguishing feature is the ability to command snow or shower snowflakes. This supernatural creature is one of the major player in this story. Sprite, which is also her name is tasked to change Blaine Frost into a compassionate, giving, courageous and joyful person. Blaine's motivation is to be able to keep the love of his life--Noel.

Like the very popular Christmas story of Scrooge, Blaine's story also started on the eve of Christmas day. He was driving home with Noel on a snowy night when he lost control of his car because he drunk. Blaine woke up to an unconscious Noel on the passenger side and the appearance of a child-like character with white hair and pink lips sitting on his hood. The said character gave her an assignment to perform so he could have Noel back. Failure to do acts of compassion, charity, courage and joy in seven days will lose him Noel for good. 

This is a very modern twist to the classic Christmas story of all time. Blaine represents the modern-day Scrooge but with more good looks and a very nice girlfriend. Blaine is a workaholic and a person who never thought about anyone else but himself. He grew up in a family who never thought about money because it was never lacking. His only redeeming quality is he loves his girlfriend which makes him an upgraded version of Scrooge. At least Blaine is capable of loving someone other than himself.

The story ended with Blaine being able to perform all virtues required by Sprite. He got Noel back and got more friends who became like family to him because of his change of heart. A happy ending. Great! But what I really liked about the story is how it emphasized paying attention to our surroundings. Blaine, if you really look at him, is not a bad person. He never hurt anyone intentionally but he also never cared about anybody else's business. I think his faults were in his omissions. He did not care about his employees spending more hours at work thereby, missing out on family events. He never cared about the homeless person which turned out to be someone he knew in high school. All these minor details added up have major effects in other people's lives. How many of us are just like Blaine? We are all guilty. What I love about this story is it is so unassuming. It even comes as a cute and funny tale because of Sprite's character but it also poses a very heavy reminder of the very small things we try to not see. The things that we refuse to look and turn our heads away because it has no bearing to us in any way. 

I give this book 4/5 snowflakes. Though the story is done in a light way, with Sprite's character who is very playful, it holds a very important and relevant lesson. It reminds us all of doing a random act of kindness everyday. Just because we are so busy with our lives and our own problems, doesn't mean it gives us the license to forget about the rest of the world. A little random act of kindness goes a long way and this was what really hit me in this story. Though, in here, all the acts done by Blaine were not totally done to strangers, the meaning and essence is still the same. If you can't be compassionate and giving to the people you know, how much more to those who aren't? This book is really in time for the holidays but kindness should be practiced all the days of the year. Kindness is not only done during Christmas. It should be given any day. And let's not forget about love. After all, it was Blaine's love that moved him to be a better man.

Being homeless doesn't just strip somebody of the basic necessities, like shelter and food, it also strips away one's dignity. Somehow, maybe not monetarily, but somehow, I will pay you back for your help. Give me that-- my dignity, my self-worth.

- Anna B. Madrise, Sprite - 

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.

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.

- RS McCoy, Hale and Gemini - 

Other books in the series:

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1)

Raene and the Three Bears(The Alder Tales #2)

Snow Owl (The Alder Tales #4)

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

Pre-Order: http://amzn.to/2srWOVb

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. 

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The Frogg Princess: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series # 3) by Jamie Brook Thompson | A Book Review

This is the third book in the series of retellings done by Jamie Brook Thompson. This completes the box set of three fairy tale stories given a very modern twist.  

This is the story Taya. A girl from New Orleans who set out to start a new life and hopefully setup her own restaurant. She ended up in Silver Creek where a few rude people are set to ruin her dreams.

This has similarities to Disney's animated movie The Princess and the Frog. One is both female main characters are black. As with the movie, the twist lies in the male protagonists. In this story, he is Felix Frogg, a police officer of Silver Creek who has a kind heart. 

The story was okay. Between the three stories, I love the author's version of Cinderella. What I like about this one is the introduction of new characters that will be in the next installment. A very teasing preview of what's to happen next and a glimpse of the next fairy tale character that is going to be given a new breath of life in this modern day. 

I give this 3.5/5 police cars. I did enjoy this story but not as much as the very first installment. I guess, my expectations were high because the first story was just so unexpected and I was wanting for the same kind of elation for the next two. I advise, based on experience to read the stories one after the other so you will get the full on magical feeling experience. Even if the second and third book were not as surprising as the first, on my opinion, all three make a really good real life versions of the world's most beloved fairy tales. But if I were to choose, Cinderella is right up there and I just wished that the succeeding two were as just as fascinating. Hopefully, the fourth story, judging from the way the characters were introduced, would turn out to be in the same caliber as the Cinderella story--packed with amazing surprises in both its characters and unexpected modern twist. I can't wait to read it.

Never marry a man that buys a ring to turn your finger green.

- Jaime Brook Thompson, The Frogg Princess: A Real Life Fairytale - 

Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com.

Other stories in the series:

Cinderella: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #1)

Beauty and the Beast: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series#2)

Beauty and the Beast: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #2 ) by Jamie Brook Thompson | A Book Review

This is Jamie Brook Thompson's version of the classic Beauty and the Beast. Unlike Disney's re-imagined movie, this is a very modern take on the oldie-but-goodie tale. If I was impressed with the author's Cinderella version, I was not so by this one but it goes without saying that this story has its own merits. 

Belle here is a beautician. If I think about it, it's not so unexpected considering the story. I wished she were something else. Something more surprising like Cindee's character in Cinderella. I just thought it was too obvious that was what Belle's character would be like. I just didn't find anything so noteworthy about it. Beast on the other hand, Adam Anderson in this story, is very interesting, if not mysterious. The kind of beast that he portrayed here is so curious and it drew me in. I wanted to know how his character is in parallel to the original one. Another thing I liked about the story is how Belle and Adam met. It was akin to the wolf scene in the latest movie, only Belle was the one surrounded by the dogs and not his father. 

I did enjoy this story. It was so straight-forward and there was no beating around the bush. Their love story progressed rapidly. It was like a May-December love affair yet you can feel how the characters were so drawn to each other that you will tend to agree with the immediate plans to tie the knot. 

I give this 3.5/5 Darth Vader helmets. As I have said, I just wished Belle's character was more unexpected and as bad-ass as that of Cindee in the first book of this series. I just thought she could have been more than just being a beautician. She was feisty though. Nevertheless, Belle did step-up and showed that she wasn't some weak woman who was just going to take all the beating. That was a redeeming quality that put a happy-ever-after ending to this story.

Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com for the copy.

Other books by the author:

Cinderella: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #1)

The Frogg Princess: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #3)

Cinderella: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #1) by Jamie Brook Thompson | A Book Review

I got this from ebooksforreview.com. I love retellings and modern fairy tales. As obvious as the title, my favorite fairy tale classic is given a modern twist and a new breath of life. The author--Jamie Brook Thompson, took on the challenge of retelling classic fairy tales and making them alive in a contemporary setting. I have read three of these and have been very impressed and overjoyed. Makes me hope that maybe, I too can have my own fairy tale just like the unfortunate ladies in her stories who found their princes and true love.

First of the three fairy tales that Miss Thompson tackled is Cinderella. The heart of the classics. I think every girl who has read her story wants to end up with a prince and escape the life of hardship and pain. Whoever doesn't? 

I love that Cindee  in this story is a strong and bad-ass woman. An in-demand mechanic in the small town of Silver Creek. What could be more bad-ass than that? I just dig it. The main character is portrayed oozing with strength and spunk. She's not some hopeless damsel in distress. She is working hard to get to a goal. Like the original tale, Cindee is an orphan and was taken under his Uncle's care. Unfortunately, the uncle is often passed out drunk throughout the whole story. The only good thing is he is good to Cindee. Her aunt with a daughter from a previous marriage are the ones making her life miserable. Her only hope of getting out from the shed (literally, she lives in the shed, not in the main house) is to save enough money to get her own space to be away from the sharp claws of her aunt and step-cousin.

Prince Charming comes in the form of Henry Christensen. The town's most eligible bachelor and Cindee's crush since high school. A guy who sees Cindee beyond her greasy and dirty appearance. One who wants to pursue his own dreams and not the path set by his family. Cindee and Henry have a lot in common than they ever know.

Wow! I know Cinderella's story had been given a thousand versions but this is the farthest it could take from the original yet preserve the essence of the classic fairy tale. I just love this story! This is probably the best so far that I have encountered. Very low-key, no flamboyant or excessive productions. A very simple story yet hit its mark.  And the setting, no palace or kingdom but just a small town. A small town brimming with interesting characters that are going to be called forth to take center stage in the next stories of the author. Another merit to this is it's not too lengthy. The story was direct to the point. No dilly-dallying yet able to capture all the necessary ingredients for it to work and worm its way to the heart of the readers. Yes, definitely, you will fall in love again with Cindee's prince charming and that Cinderella's story could still be anyone's--even yours.

I give this more than 5/5 delicious and mouth-watering cupcakes. I need not say more. You have to read the book to experience this sweet and warm-and-fuzzy-all-over story. Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com and Jaime Brook Thompson. I am looking forward to read the rest of the fairy tales given a new life by your creativity. Hopeful and inspiring.

Life isn't about waiting for Prince Charming, or fitting that glass slipper. It's about having a plan and going for it.

- Jamie Brook Thompson, Cinderella - 

Other stories in the series:

Beauty and the Beast: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #2)

The Frogg Princess: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #3)

Ballad of the Beanstalk by Amy McNulty | ARC | A Book Review

This is another fairy tale retelling and I loved this very much. This was my first time to read an Amy McNulty story and I was so happy to have signed up for this book. Thanks again, Amy McNulty for the ARC. This is actually a prequel to Jack and the Beanstalk that reveals the story behind the magical singing harp.

This is one of the best retellings I have ever read. I was really dazzled and bewitched by the story. I want more. I hope there is a sequel. I usually give my ratings at the end of each review but for this one, I am telling you now that it is a 5/5 bowls of five different kinds of beans. Just fitting because the story did mention different color of beans. 

Since, I had a great time reading this book, let me tell you the best parts about it. The twists in the story were so unexpected. I liked how they were played out. The main character, Clarion, a poor but gifted harp player, found herself in a very tricky love triangle between her best friend and a dashing son of a lord. The story centers upon these three characters' entwined lives. Clarion's climbing the beanstalk will lead to the most interesting and astounding events in her boring life. She will discover a world right just above her own. She will meet curious characters that will become dear to her and will do anything to help them. This is an adventure of a lifetime for Clarion. I, too find her adventure very fascinating.

The reason why I liked this because of the unpredictability of the events in the story. They were so well-written that most of the time, I didn't know what was going to happen next. Yes, this is not a happy-ever-after story. The love triangle was not really resolved. The very surprising ending was not really what I liked either but the fact that it hinted that the story was not over yet and there are more to come is what made me happy. The promise of more was what made my day. I want to know more. I want to know what happens to Clarion, Mack and Elena. And who was that new character that was introduced into the story right before the story ended? I am curious as to how everything will play out. What other twists will the author add?

I have another book of Amy McNulty but have not gotten to read it yet. After this book, I am curious to read her other stories. I have read other reviewers saying her other works are really good also. Nice meeting you Miss McNulty and I am looking forward to reading the rest of your stories.

All the best things in this life will cause you some pain. But they're worth it. So long as you never give up because the pain seems frightening.

- Amy McNulty, The Ballad of the Beanstalk -  

Winter Falls by Jacque Stevens | A Book Review

This is my second book by Jacque Stevens. The first one was also a fantasy story but totally different from this one. The Winter Falls is a retelling of the story of the Snow Queen. 

The story of the Snow Queen that I am familiar with is the one on the Chronicles of Narnia and Frozen. *Cue in background music for the "Let it go!" the sound track* I have also watched the movie where Emily Blunt played the role as Snow Queen opposite Charlize Theron as the Evil Queen. The difference between this story and other versions of the Snow Queens that were done is that on this version the Snow Queen is part of the four princesses that are responsible for the four seasons. This also included an alternate-universe-kind aspect--the real world and the fairy tale world co-existing in the same time and the portal to cross between these two worlds was through a broken glass shard.

What struck me most about this is the author's note. The author described how this story came about. This was written when she was going through hard times as cold and desolate as winter time. Then this book got published in summer which spelled a lifting of the coldness and the coming of warmth and good things in her life. What I love most about everything she said was that, like everything else, winter ends also. No matter how cold, bitter and desolate it could get, spring comes and melts all the terrible experiences and lingering feelings winter has brought. This is a story of hope.

In a lot of ways, I can closely relate to what the author is talking about. Winter--the all encompassing metaphor for the hardships, loneliness, separation and emptiness we experience trying to get through life. And like the seasons, life moves on and with it the changes that come forth. Some of these changes we should be willing to initiate to finally find comfort and warmth. Others we need to accept as challenges thrown our way. We may not like them but they bring some sort of blessing or force us to find strength from all the strangest places. Just like what happened in this story.

I enjoyed this! The part where the main character, Katie, ended up in another world was so exhilarating. In that alternate universe, she was able to confront her weaknesses and find her strength.  I think a lot of people can relate to Katie. We all have our own fears and frustrations. Most of us have built walls to not be hurt again. To protect us from getting our broken hearts from further crumbling to dust. We have fashioned full-body armors out of desperation and depravity as defense from all the foes whether human or otherwise. We walk around carrying these cumbersome armors in the hope of resisting pain and discouragement, all the while adding to our burdens. 

I give this book 5/5 mirrors. Knowing where this story came from has affected me most. It made Katie's character so relatable and got me so involved in her experiences. I guess, understanding what the author went through and having been through the same contributed to the depth and sorrow expressed in the story. Yes, reading this felt like winter--freezing, isolating, desperate and tormenting but also filled with hope, just like all other fairy tale stories. It's always darkest before the dawn but through it all, the morning sun rises with all its glory and melts all the darkness to oblivion. This also pointed out a lot of parallelism to real life. If you haven't known, fairy tales are taken from real stories. They just use a lot of symbolism. 

Whatever I had lost, had been missing for years and was certain to be gone for good.

- Jacques Stevens, Winter Falls -  

Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com for the copy. Sorry for the delayed post. 

Also by Jacque Stevens:

The Stone Bearers