Scrapping and playing

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Murder at the Highland Castle By Helena Dixon (A Miss Underhay Mystery #14)

A majestic castle by a Scottish loch, a glass of whisky by a roaring fire, stockings hung by the chimney… and a body? It’s a midwinter murder for Kitty Underhay! Winter, 1935. Lightly dusted with snow and nestled on the edge of a sweeping Scottish loch, Finnglach Castle looks positively magical. Kitty Underhay, her husband Matt and their beloved dog Bertie are delighted to be celebrating the new year with a Hogmanay party, but just after midnight, a shot rings out across the grounds…

Their host, Lord Barlas, is dead, murdered in the snow. The killer’s footprints have vanished and the gun is missing. With the snow-covered castle completely cut off, and a killer in their midst, Kitty and Matt need to work fast to find the culprit before someone else ends up dead. As the weather worsens, the guests begin discussing dark Highland stories about evil spirits. But with an anxious daughter, a new wife set to inherit a fortune and a suspicious spiritual adviser, Kitty is sure the killer is close at hand. Can she, Matt and Bertie sniff out the treacherous culprit in time for haggis and whisky or will they find themselves skating on dangerously thin ice?

Buy Link(s): https://geni.us/B0CDHGNWHYsocial

My Review:

What’s not to love in a mystery novel set at Christmas time, in an manor in the Highland, with a cast of characters that would be perfect in a Golden Age Novel, and some gothic elements?

I can find no fault and I loved this novel. I was grabbed since they arrive in the Highland and couldn’t stop reading until I read the last page in the novel.

There are secrets, twists, surprises and a lot of entertaining moments in this novel. Kitty and Matt are a great couple and I love their stories.

This one is a very good one as it’s entertaining and a page turner.

Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author:

Helena Dixon splits her time between the Black Country and Devon. Married to the same man for over thirty-five years she has three daughters, a cactus called Spike, and a crazy cockapoo. She is allergic to adhesives, apples, tinsel and housework. She was winner of The Romance Prize in 2007 and Love Story of the Year 2010 as Nell Dixon. She now writes historical 1930's set cozy crime. 

Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nelldixonauthor

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NellDixon

Website: http://www.nelldixon.com

Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/helenadixonuk

Bookouture Email Sign Up: https://www.bookouture.com/helena-dixon

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The Altar Girls by Patricia Gibney (Detective Lottie Parker #13)

The little girl looked like an angel in her thin white robe, her long black hair spread around her head like a dark halo on the snow. Her hands rested on her chest, fingers interlaced as if she had fallen asleep while praying. But she would never wake up again…

When Detective Lottie Parker receives news that a child’s body has been found in the frozen grounds of the cathedral, a shiver runs down her spine. She’s terrified it will be eight-year-old Willow Devine, reported missing that morning. But when she arrives at the cathedral, holding a photo of Willow with her blonde ponytail and gap-toothed smile, she gets a terrible shock. The body is a young girl, wrapped in a white shroud, a rosary clutched in her frozen fingers. But her hair is dark, not fair. This girl isn’t Willow but another eight-year-old, Naomi. Desperate to find a connection between the two girls and to find Willow before it is too late, Lottie speaks to the girls’ families and discovers that both girls were altar servers at the cathedral. The charismatic priest Father Maguire has a watertight alibi for the time the girls went missing, but Lottie suspects the confused old lady traumatised by the discovery of Naomi’s body is hiding something… A day later, Willow’s little body is found wrapped in a white robe in the snowy grounds of a church across town. Lottie is devastated, convinced now that she can’t trust anyone, least of all the girls’ parents. Why did Willow’s mother claim the girls didn’t know each other? And why are there no photos of Naomi in her mother’s shabby house? But when a little boy from the choir goes missing too, Lottie realises she must spread her net wider. Can she stop this twisted killer before another precious life is stolen?

Buy Link: Amazon: https://geni.us/B0CDC4V8W7social

My Review: This novel grabbed me at the first page and let me go when I reached the end. It moved, made me feel for all the victims root for Lottie, her family, and hope that Sergio could be back to a loving home. Sometimes I felt the cold, the chilly atmosphere and how the characters were damaged and hurt. It’s a tense and fast paced story, a story that moved me and I felt a lot of rage as there’s a lot of victims but some are more hurt by the adults’ choices The excellent storytelling and the short chapter made me turn pages and it was a bad case of just-another-chapter as there was a new surprising twist any time I wanted to stop reading Patricia Gibney delivers another story that keeps hooked. Moving, heartbreaking and entertaining. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author Patricia is the million-copy bestselling author of the DI Lottie Parker series. She yearned to be a writer after reading Enid Blyton and Carolyn Keene and even wanted to be Nancy Drew when she grew up. She has now grown up (she thinks) but the closest she’s come to Nancy Drew is writing crime! In 2009, after her husband died, she retired from her job and started writing seriously. Fascinated by people and their quirky characteristics, she always carries a notebook to scribble down observations. Patricia also loves to paint in watercolour and lives in the Irish midlands with her children.

https://patriciagibney.com/ https://www.facebook.com/trisha460/ https://twitter.com/trisha460 https://www.instagram.com/patricia_gibney_author/

Sign up to be the first to hear about new releases from Patricia Gibney here: https://www.bookouture.com/patricia-gibney

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REBELLION by Simon Scarrow  (EAGLES OF EMPIRE 22)

AD.60 and Brittania is in chaos. Boudica has had a taste of victory against the formidable veterans in Camulodunum and she won’t stop now. How will Roman heroes Macro and Cato fare against the notorious Queen of the Britons?

A quick response to the rapidly advancing rebel forces, Governor Suetonius takes command leading his army to the besieged Londinium with prefect Cato and a mounted escort in tow. The grim reality of Britannia slipping deeper into chaos and hysteria becomes unmistakable as tribal warriors continue to swell the ranks of Boudica’s forces. Both Cato and Suetonius confront the sobering truth that minimal preparations have been made to confront a full-scale insurrection.

Meanwhile, in Londinium, a heart-wrenching revelation unfolds. Centurion Macro is among those missing following the Camulodunum massacre. Has Cato's loyal comrade, who has faced countless battles, met his ultimate challenge? As disaster looms, Cato readies himself for the next strategic move. Can he dare to hope that Macro, marked by battle and unflinching courage, has managed to evade these bloodthirsty rebels? In this pivotal military campaign, Cato knows that only one man he trusts stands beside him, and the fate of the Empire in Britannia hangs in the balance.

Book page: https://www.headline.co.uk/titles/simon-scarrow/rebellion-eagles-of-empire-22/9781472287076/

My Review: Note: you can read this book as a stand-alone but I think it’s a sort of follow-up to Death to the Emperor, the previous novel in this long series. Boudica’s rebellion is described in a lot of books but I think this one that describe is it could have been. It was gory, violent, sometime very cruel insurrection, a sort of guerrilla that nearly defeated Rome. The author did a good job in described the sense of confusion, the excitement, the violence. This age is not known for any type of Geneva treaty or piety, the Roman pietas is the sense of loyalty not any type of kindness The novel is fast paced, action packed, with some heartbreaking moments. There’s a lot violence and some scenes are a graphic description of what it was described by the historian so you’d better skip them if you are squeamish. I  was happy to catch up with Cato and Marco, felt for them and hope to read soon their new story as the aftermath of the rebellion won’t be easy. This story kept me reading till late in the night as I wanted to be sure that my favourite characters were going to survive. The storytelling is excellent and it’s well researched. There’s a lot of attention to the details. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author: Simon Scarrow is a Sunday Times No. 1 bestselling author with several million copies of his books sold worldwide. After a childhood spent travelling the world, he pursued his great love of history as a teacher, before becoming a full-time writer. His Roman soldier heroes Cato and Macro made their debut in 2000 in UNDER THE EAGLE and have subsequently appeared in many bestsellers in the Eagles of the Empire series, including CENTURION, INVICTUS and DAY OF THE CAESARS. Many of the series have been Sunday Times bestsellers. REBELLION marks no.22 of Simon’s Eagles of the Empire Novels.

Simon Scarrow is also the author of a quartet of novels about the lives of the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon Bonaparte, YOUNG BLOODS, THE GENERALS, FIRE AND SWORD and THE FIELDS OF DEATH; a novel about the 1565 Siege of Malta, SWORD & SCIMITAR; HEARTS OF STONE, set in Greece during the Second World War; and PLAYING WITH DEATH, a contemporary thriller written with Lee Francis. He also wrote the novels ARENA and INVADER with T. J. Andrews. His first Berlin thriller, BLACKOUT set in WW2 Berlin and first published in 2021 was a Richard and Judy Book Club pick with DEAD OF NIGHT following to critical acclaim earlier in 2023.  

Simon and ‘Eagle of the Empire’ series: Simon’s inspiration for the "Eagle of the Empire" series stems from a fascination with the Roman Empire's military and political intricacies. Scarrow's meticulous research and dedication to historical accuracy are evident in his works, where he skillfully weaves narratives around real historical events and figures. Simon has been inspired by his own life and experiences and sees himself in both his main characters Cato and Marco - Cato being who he was as a student and Marco who he has grown up to be. He has a knack for immersing readers in the ancient world and through his novels, he invites readers to embark on those journeys back in time, where empires clash in battles that have shaped the course of human history but encourages us to draw parallels to the political now through his stories of the then.

Website: https://www.simonscarrow.co.uk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimonScarrow

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Mystery at Saltwater Cottages by Clare Chase (An Eve Mallow Mystery #11)

Saltwater Cottages, Saxford’s new arts and crafts centre, is as pretty as a picture. But when murder makes a blot on the landscape, Eve Mallow must draw on all her detective skills to solve the case!

When beautiful Saltwater Cottages opens, offering art courses in charming surroundings, Eve Mallow and best friend Viv sign up straight away. Viv’s brother Simon is in charge, and they all want him to succeed. But from the start, Eve finds herself in a sticky situation. Famous guest artist Nena Field is a complete nightmare, painting everyone in a bad light. So when Eve finds her body in Blind-Eye Wood, there’s no shortage of suspects. But who could have hated her enough to take her life? Was it the curiously over-qualified cook, the secretive manager, or the chatty receptionist, mysteriously missing at the time of the murder? Determined to find the killer and save Simon’s business, Eve sets to work sketching out a theory of the crime. Nena was working on a secret painting when she died, which has now vanished without a trace, and Eve is convinced it holds the answers she needs. But when all her best suspects seem to have alibis, Eve is forced back to the drawing board.

Then Eve has her own brush with death, and realises she must be on the right track. But what did she see or hear at Saltwater Cottages, and can she find the killer before they paint her out of the picture?

Buy Link(s): https://geni.us/B0C49XRKDXsocial

My Review: This is a solid and entertaining mystery but I don’t know it Clare Chase would be able to write a boring or bad mystery. Eve and the cast of characters are enough to keep you reading till late in the night as they’re well plotted and relatable. As Eve writes obituary anytime it’s like looking at a different side of the life of relevant people. There’s always a lot of darkness, secrets and some very dangerous enemies. This is one of the strong point of this series: even if we know that Eve will investigate we are always feeling like she’s working and the information she’s collecting are part of her work. I wasn’t a fan of the victim, she’s one of those characters that you hope will play a role as a victim. There’s a lot of twists and surprises and I loved the solution Another well plotted novel that kept reading and guessing, another story that kept reading till late in the night. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author Clare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations. Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder on the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award. Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium. As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s books. You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com

Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareChaseAuthor Twitter: https://twitter.com/ClareChase_ Website: www.clarechase.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarechaseauthor/ Bookouture email signup: https://www.bookouture.com/clare-chase

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The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett (The Appeal #1.5)

One dead Santa. A town full of suspects. Will you discover the truth?

Christmas in Lower Lockwood, and the Fairway Players are busy rehearsing their festive pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, to raise money for the church roof appeal. But despite the season, goodwill is distinctly lacking amongst the amateur dramatics enthusiasts. Sarah-Jane is fending off threats to her new position as Chair, the fiberglass beanstalk might be full of asbestos, and a someone is intent on ruining the panto evenbefore the curtain goes up.

Of course, there's also the matter of the dead body. Who could possibly have had the victim on their naughty list?

Join lawyers Femi and Charlotte as they read the round robins, examine the emails and pore over the police transcripts. Will the show go on?

Book Page: https://serpentstail.com/work/the-christmas-appeal/

My Review: Janice Hallett only writes clever and entertaining books, this one is the perfect example of how she mixes humour, social satire and a description of the relationship amongst the member of the The Fairway Players. There's a good balance amongst these elements: the power plays, the snobism and class distinction, the secrets hidden behind the facade. I had a lot of fun but I think there was also food for thought as sharp and witty social remarks are spot on. This is a story set at Christmas time but it's not a Christmas story. There's any magic moment with the snow falling, there's plenty of very funny moments. It was a great follow up to The Appeal, an original and fresh novel that I read in one sitting. I strongly recommend it. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author:

Janice Hallett studied English at UCL, and spent several years as a magazine editor, winning two awards for journalism. After gaining an MA in Screenwriting at Royal Holloway, she co-wrote the feature film Retreat. The Appeal is inspired by her lifelong interest in amateur dramatics. Her second novel, The Twyford Code, will be published by Viper in 2022. When not indulging her passion for global adventure travel, she is based in West London.

Social links: https://linktr.ee/janicehallett

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A couple of reviews

The Circumference of the World by Lavie Tidhar

Caught between realities, a mathematician, a book dealer, and a mobster desperately seek a notorious book that disappears upon being read. Only the author, a rakish sci-fi writer, knows whether his popular novel is truthful or a hoax. In a story that is cosmic, inventive, and sly, multi-award-winning author Lavie Tidhar (Central Station) travels from the emergence of life to the very ends of the universe.

Delia Welegtabit discovered two things during her childhood on a South Pacific island: her love for mathematics and a novel that isn’t supposed to exist. But the elusive book proves unexpectedly dangerous. Oskar Lens, a science fiction-obsessed mobster in the midst of an existential crisis, will stop at nothing to find the novel. After Delia’s husband Levi goes missing, she seeks help from Daniel Chase, a young, face-blind book dealer. The infamous novel Lode Stars was written by the infamous Eugene Charles Hartley: legendary pulp science-fiction writer and founder of the Church of the All-Seeing Eyes. In Hartley’s novel, a doppelganger of Delia searches for her missing father in a strange star system. But is any of Lode Stars real? Was Hartley a cynical conman on a quest for wealth and immortality, creating a religion he did not believe in? Or was he a visionary who truly discovered the secrets of the universe?

My Review: This is not the best Lavie Tidhar but the level is usually so high that I loved it. A homage to classic sci-fi, a book about a book, multiple POVs and threads. It's a book that can be confusing at times, a lot threads with a lot of jumps but will converge in a solid solution at the end. There's a fascinating world building, questions and an excellent storytelling. I was enthralled and had to finish it even when I felt a bit lost as there was always something that kept me coming back. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Tachyon Publications for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Book page: https://tachyonpublications.com/product/the-circumference-of-the-world/ https://lavietidhar.wordpress.com/the-circumference-of-the-world/

The Author: British Science Fiction, British Fantasy, and World Fantasy Award winning author Lavie Tidhar (A Man Lies Dreaming, The Escapement, Unholy Land, The Hood) is an acclaimed author of literature, science fiction, fantasy, graphic novels, and middle grade fiction. Tidhar received the Campbell, Xingyun, and Neukom awards for the novel Central Station. In addition to his fiction and nonfiction, Tidhar is the editor of the Apex Best of World Science Fiction series and a columnist for the Washington Post. His speaking appearances include Cambridge University, PEN, and the Singapore Writers Festival. He has been a Guest of Honour at book conventions in Japan, Poland, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, China, and elsewhere; he is currently a visiting professor and writer in residence at the American International University. Tidhar currently resides with his family in London.

Website: http://lavietidhar.wordpress.com/ Twitter: lavietidhar

A Stranger in the Citadel by Tobias Buckell

From powerful storyteller Tobias Buckell (Crystal Rain, The Tangled Lands), a complex novel of humanity’s passion for the written word. At the revolutionary crossroads of magic, betrayal, and long-forgotten truths, a naïve, compassionate royal and a determined, hunted librarian discover a dangerous world of mortal and ancient menaces.

The life of the youngest musketress of Ninetha has been one of hard training. But Lilith’s days have also contained many pleasures, the royal privileges of her family’s guardianship of the Cornucopia, a mystical source of limitless bounty. Lilith has never seen a book, and she never expects to encounter one within the safety of the citadel. When Ishmael, an outcast librarian, shows up outside the Afriq Gate, Lilith saves him from immediate execution by her father’s second-in-command, the zealot Kira. As Lilith’s curiosity draws her to Ishmael, she lets slip her family’s most dangerous secret to Kira, sparking a deadly rebellion and an unexpected journey full of stunning revelations.

My Review: Sometimes you start book and you feel enthralled by the plot and the storytelling. It happened with this book, I was in love with this story since the moment Lilith sees her first book as we are introduced to this complex and intriguing world building. There’s a very original magical system, strong characters and emotions, it’s one of those cases you would be happy if this was a series and you could learn more about this world. Tobias S. Buckell can writes and I want to read some of the other series as I thoroughly enjoyed this story Highly recommended. Many thanks to Tachyon Publications for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Book page: https://tachyonpublications.com/product/a-stranger-in-the-citadel/

The Author: Born in the Caribbean, Tobias S. Buckell is a New York Times Bestselling author. His novels and over 50 short stories have been translated into 17 languages and he has been nominated for the Hugo, Nebula, Prometheus and John W. Campbell Award for Best New Science Fiction Author. He currently lives in Ohio.

Website: http://www.tobiasbuckell.com/

Twitter: tobiasbuckell

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A DISH BEST SERVED HOT by Natalie Caña (Vega Family Love Stories #2)

In this follow-up to A PROPOSAL THEY CAN'T REFUSE, single dad Santiago "Saint" Vega gets a second shot at love when he falls for his daughter's teacher, but when duty to his family forces him to do something she'll never forgive, will everything he's built come crumbling down? Santiago "Saint" Vega gets a second shot at love with Lola León, but when duty to his family forces him to do something she'll never forgive, will everything he's built come crumbling down?

Years ago, Saint walked away from the girl he loved to fulfill his duty. Now he’s struggling to build bridges between his drifting family, take on more responsibilities at his uncle’s construction company, figure out why his daughter refuses to talk at school and curtail his mischievous abuelo’s escalating pranks. Then she walks back into his life. Social justice advocate Lola León has returned to Humboldt Park for two reasons: to help care for her dear abuelo and to serve the community center she loved, particularly the shelter for unhoused LGBTQIA+ youths. When she finds out that the Vegas are responsible for endangering both, she is more than ready to go to war—even if the boy she never forgot is standing at the front of the battlefield. Neither of them expects to become allies in saving the shelter, helping Saint’s daughter or ending the decades-long feud between their grandfathers. They definitely don’t expect all of their old feelings to come rushing back. As Saint and Lola enter combat, they can’t help but wonder where the other’s true allegiance lies, and whether they’ll win these battles only to lose each other.

My Review: I'm loving the Vega Family series and this one was up to A Proposal They Can't Refuse: fun, entertaining but also dealing with social issues and inclusivity. Saint is the responsible one, the one who would do almost anything to help his family. Lola is the warrior, the social worker who's ready to fight against the guy she still loves. Plus there's the Abuelo, my favourite character. A well plotted and fast-paced novel that talks about a second-chance love story but also about gentrification and the less lucky. Read it and have fun Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Author Bio: Natalie Caña writes contemporary romances that allow her to incorporate her witty sense of humor and her love for her culture (Puertominican whoop whoop!) for heroines and heroes like her.

Social Links:

Author Website: http://nataliecana.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliecanawrites/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NatCanaWrites

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliecwrites

Buy Links:

BookShop.org

Harlequin

Barnes & Noble 

Books A Million

Amazon

ISBN: 9780778333500 Publication Date: October 31, 2023 Publisher: MIRA 18.99 US | 23.99 CAN

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Change of Heart by T.A. Williams (Beneath Italian Skies #2)

Two families at war and Alice finds herself caught in the middle. Can she re-write a story as old as time? When cutbacks force Alice out of her assistant manager role at a Devonshire stately home, she turns her sights elsewhere: the picturesque hills above the historic city of Parma. An aristocratic Italian family are looking to open their medieval castle to the public, and Alice is just the woman for the job. Four years ago, a life-changing accident pushed Alice into depression, but the beauty and charm of the Italian countryside works its magic in brightening her days. Especially when she keeps bumping into handsome Luca… But rivalries run deep in the town, and Alice’s work – not to mention her potential love life – are caught in the middle of a long-standing feud between two families. With her job and future happiness in peril, can Alice save the future of the castle, and bring two warring families together?

Purchase Links: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Change-Heart-uplifting-escapist-Beneath-ebook/dp/B0C894JRL7 https://www.amazon.com/Change-Heart-uplifting-escapist-Beneath-ebook/dp/B0C894JRL7

My Review: There's not a lot of romance novels that feature an heroine with mobility problems or characters with physical issue. Kudos to the author that developed a strong and clever heroine that I loved. This is a story about changes but also a story about learning to accept us and what we are even if we are not as perfect as the world seems to ask us. The plot is lovely, fast placed and made me smile and root for the characters. I appreciated the setting as Parma is a wonderful city and the area is a great place. Plus the mouth-watering food and the people. I also like that the author talks about cold as it can be quite cold in North Italy. That said I read the story in one setting, a sort of let's-see-how-it-is and ending the book because there was a next chapter I wanted to read. I think that T.A. Williams should send a copy of his novels to the Parma tourist board as this book will make armchair travel a lot of people to Parma. A well plotted, poignant, and compelling story that I strongly recommend Many thanks to Canelo and Rachel's Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Author Bio: I’m a man. And a pretty old man as well. I did languages at university a long time ago and then lived and worked in France and Switzerland before going to Italy for seven years as a teacher of English. My Italian wife and I then came back to the UK with our little daughter (now long-since grown up) where I ran a big English language school for many years. We now live in a sleepy little village in Devonshire. I’ve been writing almost all my life but it was only ten years ago that I finally managed to find a publisher who liked my work enough to offer me my first contract. The fact that I am now writing escapist romance is something I still find hard to explain. My early books were thrillers and historical novels and I now also write cozy crime, but my first love has always been romance. Maybe it’s because there are so many horrible things happening in the world today that I feel I need to do my best to provide something to cheer my readers up. My books provide escapism to some gorgeous locations and descriptions of food to make you drool.

Social Media Links: Website: www.tawilliamsbooks.com Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tawilliamsbooks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrevorWilliamsBooks/

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The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall

For fans of Practical Magic and Gilmore Girls this charming debut novel and TikTok sensation is packed full of romance, charm and plenty of magic… Revelare witches are cursed. As long as they use their magic, they are doomed to four heartbreaks. So far, Sadie Revelare has experienced three – the devastating departure of her mother and the loss of her brother. And the most painful heartbreak of all: Jake McNealy, her first love. Ever since, Sadie has done everything she can to protect herself from more pain. But now Sadie's beloved grandmother is sick. And without her, Sadie isn't sure she will have the strength to keep her family and her magic together. As Sadie’s carefully structured life begins to unravel, Jake returns to town after a decade away. And in the face of a final heartbreak that could tear Sadie apart, she must decide once and for all: is love more important than magic? The perfect read for anyone looking for a cosy and warm, witchy novel to curl up with this autumn.

My Review: Practical Magic is amongst my favourite books, and I like Gilmore Girls. This means I was expecting a story featuring family and magical dynamics and humour, but this is a good story but also one where the lightness of the small-town atmosphere mixes with the grief of the loss and the fear of being hurt again. I’m not sure I loved Sadie as sometimes she seems a bit self-damaging, but I surely loved the small-town atmosphere and the second chance romance. The family dynamics are very interesting and sweet, the descriptions of the food are mouth-watering. I think that some more humour would have helped and made this novel a lighter and more entertaining read. I read it this summer and re-read now and this changed some of my impressions and I changed the review on Goodreads as I noticed new details about the relationships and the characters and their world view which more conservative than the one the average witch story. A story that mixes different tones heart-breaking and heart-warming. I would be curious to read stories about the curses of the other characters. It’s a book you can love or hate according to your mood. I liked it and would read more books by this author. Many thanks to the Aria and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Purchase Link - https://amzn.eu/d/gbqaEhX

The Author: Breanne Randall is a freelance writer by trade and an author by vocation. She graduated with honors with degrees in English Literature, Psychology, and Religious Studies, and her articles have been published in national magazines such as Parents, Fit Pregnancy, Good Housekeeping, Family Circle et al. as well as regular contributions to sites such as Disney Family, SheKnows, Bustle, et al. A seasoned traveler, she imbues her stories with the magic and culture collected from the over forty countries she’s visited. Breanne lives in the sleepy foothills of Northern California with her husband, two daughters, and a slew of farm animals. When she’s not writing, you can find her wandering the property searching for fairy portals or serving elaborate stuffed animal tea parties.

Social Media Links: Instagram: houseofrandall Twitter: @breanne_randall

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Blood of Wolves by G.N. Gudgion (The Rune Song Trilogy #3)

In a war between gods, Adelais stands alone.

After bringing down deadly vengeance on church and crown in Galmandie, Adelais escaped to her home in Vriesland. But even here she is surrounded by enemies. While the common folk worship her, ruthless nobles plot to harness her fame and advance their own ambitions. In the shadows, assassins wait for a chance to strike. Adelais makes a dangerous journey to the north, seeking to understand the prophecies that swirl around her. At the source of all rune magic, a place as ancient as time, she glimpses the chaos of a coming war. The armies of Vriesland are on the march—thousands of spearmen and berserkers, inspired by the girl they call the Fate Weaver. But the Galman lords have gathered a vast army of their own, uniting behind a holy relic in the hands of Agnès de Fontenay. As friends face off across the battlefield, as armored knights smash into shield-walls, as the gods themselves wrestle for power, Adelais must weave the fate of nations before all that she loves is destroyed.

The Rune Song Trilogy reaches its thrilling finale. An unputdownable epic of intrigue, action and Viking magic, Blood of Wolves is perfect for fans of Mark Lawrence, Andrzej Sapkowski, Robin Hobb and Guy Gavriel Kay.

Buy Link(s): https://geni.us/B0CKBZWMH6cover

My Review: I am always sad when I have to say goodbye to characters I loved and was sad to read the last page of the Rune Song Trilogy The character arc of Adelais, from runaway prisoner to the be the Chosen, is astonishing. I loved her and loved how she craved to be loved and lived a simple life instead of being in the middle of battles, political intrigues, and epical changes. There’s a lot of character development in this series and it makes it very interesting keeps you reading as you want to know what will happen to them. The magical system is fascinating as it’s based on the runes, and I liked how the author did his homework and used the right meaning for each rune and the complex archetypal meaning behind them. This is a good historical fantasy, one that talks about cultural and religious clash. It would be great to read what will happen to the heir of these characters as I think there’s still a lot I want to know about this world. You will surely love this series if you love Gemmell or Gavriel Kay. As they are amongst my favorite fantasy writers consider it a sort of 10/5 * review Many thanks to Second Sky for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Author Bio G.N. Gudgion (‘Geoff’) grew up with his nose in a book, often one featuring knights in armour. A later search for stories where women didn’t have to be either beautiful damsels or witches led him to the fantasy genre and the works of Guy Gavriel Kay and Mark Lawrence. After Geoff gave up a business career to write, it was natural to gravitate to historical fantasy, to stories with complex, conflicted characters that a reader can bleed with, cry for, and perhaps fall in love with. They live in worlds where you can smell the sweat and the sewers, as well as the roses. Geoff lives in a leafy corner of England, where he’s a keen amateur equestrian and a very bad pianist. He spends much of his time crafting words in a shed, fifty yards and five hundred years from his house. He is also the author, as Geoffrey Gudgion, of supernatural thrillers Saxon's Bane (Solaris, 2020) and Draca (Unbound, 2020)

Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geoffrey.gudgion.author Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeoffreyGudgion Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geoffreygudgion Website: https://geoffreygudgion.com Goodreads (Geoffrey Gudgion): https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6542406.Geoffrey_Gudgion Second Sky email signup: www.secondskybooks.com/gn-gudgion

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Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved

When the ceiling of preloved clothing shop Roseford Reloved falls in at the height of Christmas season, owner Polly Parrott is in despair. She can see her fortunes draining away as quickly as the water is pouring through her roof. What makes it worse is that standing right underneath the deluge is Will Sutherland, sporting hero and new owner of Parson’s Grange, the new modern mansion in Roseford. Polly and Will’s first meeting is about as far from a success as it can be, but over a festive season of Christmas markets, a Yuletide Ball and inconvenient snowfalls, can they forge a friendship or even more, despite their unpromising beginning? Or will the complications in both of their lives end their romance before it even begins?

My Review: Roseford is always a place I love to visit as I love to visit story written by Fay Keenan as it’s like travelling to a lovely place where people is friendly and ready to help, there may be problems but also a solution. There’s fun, there’s a lot of emotion and be sure you will find love. This is this type of book on steroid and even if it was a bit complex to read it, like starting another book and experience a sort of deja vu before discovering you already read it. That said I loved Polly, Will, was glad to catch up with the characters and it was a great way to pass time while I was commuting even if it was early, grey and cold. This novel made me smile, root for the characters, and turn pages trying to understand what was going to happen and not miss my station. That said I loved it and it’s recommended. It can be read as a standalone but read the rest of the series for the best experience. Many thanks to Boldwood and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/winterrelovedsocial

The Author: Fay Keenan is the author of the bestselling Little Willowbury series of novels. She has led writing workshops with Bristol University and has been a visiting speaker in schools. She is a full-time teacher and lives in Somerset.

Social Media Links : Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/faykeenanauthor Twitter: https://twitter.com/faykeenan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faykeenanauthor/ Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/FayKeenanNews Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/fay-keenan

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A Holiday Romance in Ferry Lane Market by Nicola May (Ferry Lane Market #4)

When soap actor Sabrina Swift loses her way due to a public scandal, she packs up her life, heads to Cornwall and randomly finds herself running a Christmas gift shop in the quaint and quirky Ferry Lane Market. Changing her looks and identity to keep her anonymity, the newcomer starts to make friends and enemies as she walks a frosty path in the established community. And as rumours start circling that the outside market is going to be shut down, Sabrina is not only ensconced in an unexpected love triangle but is also faced with a difficult decision that could alter both her life and those of the inhabitants of Hartmouth forever. Charming characters and a beautifully written setting make for a delightful and uplifting tale that explores themes of self-discovery, belonging and the importance of following your heart.

My Review: I was very happy to read another novel in the Ferry Lane Market series and catch up with the characters that I loved. Sabrina is a great character, well developed and likeable. She’s hiding after a scandal, but she fell in love with her hiding place and the people. This is the start of a poignant, heart-warming, and festive story. Nicola May delivers another compelling story and plays with a lot of emotions never being repetitive or predictable. It can be read as a stand-alone but reading the whole serie will make you appreciate the nuances of this story. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Purchase Links https://www.amazon.co.uk/Holiday-Romance-Ferry-Lane-Market-ebook/dp/B0CC342XY6 https://www.amazon.com/Holiday-Romance-Ferry-Lane-Market-ebook/dp/B0CC342XY6

The Author: Nicola May is a rom-com superstar. She is the author of sixteen romantic comedies, all of which have appeared in the Kindle bestseller charts. Two of them won awards at the Festival of Romance, and another was named ebook of the week in The Sun. The Corner Shop in Cockleberry Bay became the best-selling Kindle book in the UK, across all genres, in January 2019, and was Amazon’s third-bestselling novel in that year.

Social Media Links : www.nicolamay.com X: @nicolamay1 Nicola May - Home | Facebook i: https://www.instagram.com/author_nicola/

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The Puppet Maker by Jenny O'Brien (Detective Alana Mack#1)

The scrap of paper looked as if it had been torn from a diary. The words written in faint pencil. The letters rounded, almost childlike: Please look after her. Her life and mine depend on you not trying to find me.

When Detective Alana Mack arrives at Clonabee police station, in a small Irish seaside town on the outskirts of Dublin, she doesn't expect to find a distressed two-year-old girl sobbing on the floor. Abandoned in a local supermarket, the child tells them her name is Casey. All Alana and her team have to go on is a crumpled note begging for someone to look after her little girl. This mother doesn't want to be found. Still recovering from a terrible accident that has left Alana navigating a new life as a wheelchair user, Alana finds herself suddenly responsible for Casey while trying to track down the missing mother and solve another missing person's case… a retired newsagent who has seemingly vanished from his home. Forced to ask her ex-husband and child psychiatrist Colm for help, through Forensic Art Therapy, Alana discovers that whatever darkness lies behind the black windows in Casey's crayon drawing, the little girl was terrified of the house she lived in. Then a bag of human remains is found in a bin, and a chilling link is made – the DNA matches Casey's. Alana and her team must find the body and make the connection with the missing newsagent fast if she is to prevent another life from being taken. But with someone in her department leaking confidential details of the investigation to the media, can Alana set aside her emotional involvement in this case and find Casey’s mother and the killer before it's too late?

My Review: I was on the edge and holding the breath I didn’t know I was holding which is a a sort of commonplace phrase but there were moment’s I felt like I was in the story. Alana is strong and abrasive character. The author did an excellent job in developing a character who’s been recently wheelchair bound and how she’s adapting. My brother-in-law is hemiplegic, and some traits of Alana brought me back in time to when he had to learn again to move in a world which is full of barriers and people who consider you too weak to face any difficulty. This is not a cosy crime. This is a gory, gritty and dark crime that bring us to very dark places, but it also shows a lot of empathy towards the victims. There’s grief, darker, there’s a lot of evil in this story but also a great team that works together to solve and find the bad guys. I love them, the descriptions of Dublin and the tightly knitted and adrenaline-fuelled plot. Can’t wait for the next story. Many thanks to Storm Publishing and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

Purchase Links https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C9JJ5XYB/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9JJ5XYB/

The Author: Born in Dublin, Jenny O'Brien moved to Wales and then Guernsey, where she tries to find time to write in between working as a nurse and ferrying around 3 teenagers. In her spare time she can be found frowning at her wonky cakes and even wonkier breads. You'll be pleased to note she won't be entering Bake-Off. She's also an all-year-round sea swimmer. Jenny is represented by Nicola Barr of The Bent Agency and published by Storm Publishing and HQ Digital (Harper Collins).

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Fatal Lies by Anita Waller (A Forrester Detective Agency Mystery #2)

For Matt Forrester, The Forrester Detective Agency is going from strength to strength: they’ve expanded their office space and even hired a new office manager – a qualified and astute woman named Carol. What starts as a simple burglary case soon turns into something darker. The victim of said burglary soon turns up dead, after engaging in threats with the local yobs she believed to have been responsible. But it soon becomes clear that there’s more at play here, and Matt – alongside sister Hermia, partner Steve, and life partner Karen – will have to put all their skills to the test, even if it puts them in danger…

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/FatalLiessocial

My Review: I didn’t read the first in this series and will surely do it as I thoroughly enjoyed this story that it’s hard to classify as genre but easy to define as highly entertaining. I like the style of writing and the characters; Ms Waller is an excellent storyteller and has a knack for keeping you reading and causing what I call the one-more-chapter syndrome and sleep deprivation due to late night reading. Matt, Karen and the cast of characters are relatable and likeable. They’re well developed and it’s easy to root for them. The plot is tightly knitted and full of surprises, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I liked the solution. I can’t wait to read the next story; this one is highly recommended. Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

The Author: Anita Waller is the author of many bestselling psychological thrillers and the Kat and Mouse crime series. She lives in Sheffield, which continues to be the setting of many of her thrillers.

Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anita.m.waller Twitter: https://twitter.com/anitamayw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitawallerauthor/ Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/AnitaWallerNews Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/anita-waller

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The Hunger of Empires By R.S. Moule (The Erland Saga #2)

Erland is in flames.

Two kings claim the throne and the war between them lays waste to the country. Far away, an old enemy scents weakness. The vast empire of Ulvatia desires new lands. Under a ruthless new leader, the empire turns its armies on Erland. Orsian has lived in hiding since his father Andrick was cut down in battle. On the dark backstreets of Cliffark, surrounded by thieves and pirates, he finds a home. When Erland is threatened, Orsian knows he must fight. Will he protect his new friends or risk returning to his family? Rymond Prindian wears the crown of West Erland, but his struggle for power is just beginning. The might of the empire will fall on his new kingdom soon. Courtiers whisper and ruthless mercenaries sharpen their knives—and Rymond can show no sign of weakness. High above, Pherri pushes through wind and snow on the mountain of Eryispek to discover the origins of her magic. There, she learns of another war, far greater than the one being fought on the plains below. Two rival gods, with unimaginable power, have been imprisoned in the mountain for centuries.

And now they are breaking free.

My Review: The first book in this series was excellent, it made me think about one of my favorite fantasy authors (Gemmell) and kept me hooked following the twists and discovering this complex world. If you didn’t read the first book, please do it as you will surely enjoy it and it will help you to enjoy this exciting story. There’s a handy list of characters at the beginning and it will help to refresh who’s who. This action packed and fast paced fantasy doesn’t suffer from the in-between-book-syndrome: there’s a lot of surprising twists and there a lot more world building and character development. You are kept turning pages, having fun and rooting for the characters. I can’t wait for the conclusion and I think it will epic and full of BOOM-BANG-ETC Highly recommended. Many thanks to Second Sky for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author: R.S. Moule ('Roger') lives in South London with his wife Eloise and their cat Tinks. He has a passion for writing epic fantasy grounded by human flaws and desires, set in worlds inspired by a childhood divided between his home in the soft, rolling hills of the Cotswolds and summers spent exploring the rugged coastline and deep glens of the Isle of Man. When not reading or writing, he can often be found playing guitar, watching football, or looking for his keys.

Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089227002713 Twitter: https://twitter.com/RS_Moule Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rs_moule/ Second Sky email signup: www.secondskybooks.com/rs-moule

Buy Link(s): Amazon: https://geni.us/B0C5K3363Qsocial Apple: https://ow.ly/WFn850PGpuX Kobo: https://ow.ly/YcYy50PGptH Google: https://ow.ly/T0rT50PGpwA

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The Girl from the Resistance by Imogen Matthews (The Dutch Girls #1) - PROMO

1941, Nazi-occupied Holland. Trudi can hear the muffled sobs of two heartbroken little girls as they peer wide-eyed from their hiding place behind the bookcase. Rosy and Louisa’s parents have been dragged away by soldiers. Now Trudi is the only one who can keep them safe…

When Nazis break down the front door of eighteen-year-old Trudi’s home and seize the Jewish couple hiding in her attic, she’s devastated, and is suddenly solely responsible for their two innocent children. The whispered rumours about the resistance are her only hope. A man called Frans and his cousin Piet risk their lives every day, helping scared and abandoned Jewish children escape into the countryside. Under the cover of night she races to beg for their help. When the girls are offered a safe house, Trudi is relieved. But with soldiers on every corner of the cobbled streets, getting there will be extremely dangerous… she must dress up in a German nurse’s uniform and convince anyone who asks that she is transporting two children to hospital. Trudi will have to give up everything to protect Rosy and Louisa. She will have to lie to her friends and family, and learn to fire a weapon that could take someone’s life. The only consolation is Piet’s dark eyes and handsome face as he stands beside her helping to plan her next steps. But Trudi suspects someone close to her told the Nazis about the hiding place in the attic, and they’ll stop at nothing to make sure the girls do not escape…

A heartbreaking, inspiring and uplifting tale about the sacrifices we’re prepared to make for innocent people. Fans of Mandy Robotham, The Nightingale and All the Light We Cannot See will love this unforgettable historical series based on true stories of the heroic women of the Dutch resistance

Buy link: https://geni.us/B0CC5H575Wsocial

The Author: Imogen Matthews writes novels based on true stories about the Netherlands during the German occupation in World War 2. Some stories she discovered by chance, others are based on her Dutch mother's own experiences of hardship and survival during the Hunger Winter of 1944-45. Her first novel, The Hidden Village, is set in the Veluwe woods, a beautiful part of Holland that Imogen has visited frequently over the past 30 years. It was in these woods that she discovered the story of the real hidden village which provided shelter in underground huts for Jews during WW2. Imogen retells the story of the hidden village with characters drawn from real life and from her imagination. Within weeks of publication in 2017, The Hidden Village became an international bestseller, ranking at the top of a number Amazon's most-read book lists. Following on from The Hidden Village comes Hidden in the Shadows, which has the pace of a thriller yet is also a love story. It tells the story about two young people who are brutally torn apart and must find a way to be together against all odds. Imogen's third WW2 novel, The Girl Across the Wire Fence, is set in Amersfoort, Netherlands, and is based on the unforgettable tale of two young lovers who risked everything to keep hope alive in the very depths of hell - the little known Dutch concentration camp called Kamp Amersfoort. Imogen's WW2 novels are published by Bookouture, a digital imprint of Hachette. Learn more about Imogen's story in this video: https://youtu.be/2YO0IWJSjj0

Social Links: www.imogenmatthewsbooks.com Facebook: @theHiddenVillagenovel Twitter: @ImogenMatthews3 Author email sign up: https://www.bookouture.com/imogen-matthews

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First Victim by L.A. Larkin (A Sally Fairburn Crime Thriller #3)

The doorbell chimes loudly. Her husband answers. Muffled voices. Then a crash. The sound of her husband’s body falling to the floor. “Joseph…?” Her voice wobbles. And she knows instantly—she should have stayed silent…

Ex-cop Sally Fairburn has put the world of crime behind her, but when her old boss contacts her about working her first case as a detective, she can’t resist. The high-profile Austin case will be her first opportunity to prove herself. Retired accountant Joseph Austin has been found dead and his wife, Fiona, in a coma, in their exclusive Peakhurst mansion. It’s a suspected burglary gone wrong, but something about the murder scene doesn’t add up: why is nothing valuable missing? Nobody seems to know who might want to hurt this sweet old pair, but as Sally investigates, she discovers the wealthy couple weren’t as popular as she first thought. They’d been embroiled in heated arguments with their neighbor, ex-con Salvador Sobral, for months. His is the strongest motive she can find. But before Sally can pounce, she receives a chilling call. Sobral has been brutally murdered with a thin strip of wire. Racing to find the missing link between the murders, Sally grows ever more desperate to catch the killer—especially when her violent ex-husband returns to his post with the Franklin police department, determined to discredit her. Fiona Austin holds the answers Sally needs. But will she come round from her coma before the murderer strikes again? Or will the killer lead Sally down a dangerous path that will leave her balancing on a knife edge between life and death?

Buy link: https://geni.us/B0CD7ZJ5QCsocial

My Review: Sally Fairburn Crime Thriller are always tense and adrenalinic stories that keeps turning pages and on the edge. This is up to the level of the other instalments in these stories: plenty of surprising twists, fast pace, and with some dark moments. The author delivers a good story that kept me till late in the night and I enjoyed it. I was glad to catch up with Sally but I would suggest her to buy a good luck charm or prepare a witch bottle because there’s a limit to the amount of misfortune a human being can face unless they are cursed and this is not a fantasy My consideration on Sally’s private problems apart this is an excellent crime thriller and I was surprised and satisfied by the solutions. Can’t wait to read the next one. 4.5 upped to 5 Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine

The Author L.A. Larkin’s crime and psychological thrillers have won her fans all over the world. Described as a superb “chiller thriller” writer by Marie Claire magazine, and praised by the king of crime, Lee Child, for her “fast and immersive” thrillers, Louisa’s novels will keep you reading all night.

Author social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LALarkinAuthor Twitter: https://twitter.com/lalarkinauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la_larkin_author/ Newsletter sign up: https://www.bookouture.com/l-a-larkin/