Monday, September 19, 2022

The Seashell of 'Ohana ~ Review

The Seashell of 'Ohana
by Mary Ting
Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 22, 2022
An absolutely gorgeous and heartwarming read about finding love when you least expect it, second chances, and how loved ones who have passed away are still with you, no matter where you are. Fans of Debbie Macomber, Susan Mallery, Pamela Kelley, and Jenny Hale will adore this romantic journey of self-discovery and matters of the heart.

“The sweeping island scenery and romance left me feeling refreshed. This was a mini escape!” ~First for Women Magazine 

Since Abby became a widow in her mid-twenties, she's spent the past four years raising her son and working long hours at the gallery she owns with her sister in Kauai. She doesn't have time for a social life, nor does she want one. Until the handsome Ian Bordonaro comes back to town.

When Abby finds out Ian is grieving the death of his mother, she feels an instant connection. She knows his pain too well, and not many in her life understand what she's been through. Their friendship grows, but a lingering sense of guilt prevents Abby from moving forward. 

Will she surrender to grief and give up her second chance at happily ever after? Or will finding a rare angelwing shell intact on the beach be a sign it's time to open her heart again?

"I didn't know I needed this book until it landed in my lap. When you need a break from reality and just want to snuggle in with a cup of tea, some romance, and laughs; this book is perfect." ~Erin, Bookseller at Barnes and Noble

"[Mary Ting's] new romance promises to leave you in laughs and tears all the while reminding you that those you've lost are never as far as you might think." ~Tanya Roberts CER Indigo Books, Quebec Canada

*Romantic Fiction Grand Prize Winner, Chatelaine Book Awards
*Bronze Medal Winner, Independent Publisher Book Awards (IPPY)
*Gold Award Winner in Romance, Kops-Fetherling International Book Awards

All the Ohana feels!, September 18, 2022
This story thrummed every chord to my heart even as the tears fell. One thousand percent worth it! Ting has such a magical way of touching the soul. I often wonder if she realizes just how much she affects people with her art.
Everything about this world called to me, & before I knew it I had flipped the very last page. The few heart crushing moments were expertly woven & again absolutely worth it. The characters are easy to love (not to mention easy to crush on), their banter easy on the heart, the vision of the island easy to escape to, & their futures easy to dream about. Pushing this tale into the highly recommend list. The feels are real!


Mary Ting
International Bestselling, Award-Winning Author Mary Ting writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers all over the world. Her books run a wide range of genres: science fiction, fantasy, and swoon worthy stories. Her storytelling talents have won her a devoted legion of fans and garnered critical praise. 

Mary was born in Seoul Korea and resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two dogs—Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Becoming an author was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, she retired from teaching. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children's chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.

Awards:
ISAN-International Sensory Assassin Network 
2019 WINNER BENJAMIN FRANKLIN AWARDS IN SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY
2019 FINALIST: ACTION ADVENTURE SILVER FALCHION AWARDS
2019 SILVER MEDAL: YOUNG ADULT FICTION-FANTASY/SCI-FI MOONBEAM CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARDS
2018 WINNER AMERICAN FICTION AWARDS IN SCIENCE FICTION: POST-APOCALYPTIC
2018 WINNER INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARDS IN SCIENCE FICTION
2018 WINNER READERS' FAVORITE AWARDS IN YOUNG ADULT ACTION

Crossroads Saga, Crossroads 
*Reader’s Favorite Gold Award Winner for Young Adult 2012
Descendant Prophecies, From Gods
*RONE Award finalist for InD’Tale Magazine for Young Adult 
The Secret Knights Series, The Chosen Knights
*YA fantasy-Readers’ Favorite International Book Silver Award
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk
*2018 Hollywood Book Festival First Runner up in Unpublished Manuscript.

@MaryTing  

Saturday, September 17, 2022

Blood Solace ~ Review

Blood Solace
by Vela Roth
Publication Date: February 23, 2022
If they reunite, a magical war could tear the kingdom apart

Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.

Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.

Steamy romance meets classic fantasy worldbuilding in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic story of forbidden love for a guaranteed series HEA.

New edition featuring a fantasy world map, glossary of lore and characters, enhanced opening chapter, and all-new cover artwork

Oh my Orthros!, September 15, 2022
Thoroughly enjoying this hesperine’s tale more & more with each book. In Blood Solace we are rewarded a walk through the magical world of Orthros meeting all of the elder firstbloods & their families. What an amazing world they have built! This is only after a terrifying trip & run in with heart hunters, of course. Prepare yourselves for a whirlwind adventure of magic, conspiracy, romance, fabulous world building, & a kaleidoscope of characters.
Each have won a special place in my heart as we have gotten to know them better, & I am eager to see what is to come for them all. The queens have mesmerized me. I would eagerly read more about all of the characters who rushed to Cassia’s side making her feel welcome & wanted. Of course, I am particularly fond of sweet little Zoie. Still holding on for Lio & Cassia’s happy ever after too. I hope it is as epic as their love for each other. Diplomacy be damned…I hope to see her tyrant father taken out only after finding out all of the deeds his daughter had a hand in. He deserves nothing less! Chysanthos & Skleros with him!
Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book to continue this addicting adventure!!

Amazon e-book ~  Autographed Book


 Vela Roth grew up with female-driven fantasy books and classic epics, then grew into romance novels. She set out to write stories that blend the rich worlds of fantasy with the passion of romance. 

 She has pursued a career in academia, worked as a web designer and book formatter, and stayed home as a full-time caregiver for her loved ones with severe illnesses. Writing through her own grief and trauma, she created the Blood Grace series, which now offers comfort to readers around the world. 

 She lives in a solar-powered writer’s garret in the Southwestern United States, finding inspiration in the mountains and growing roses in the desert. Her feline familiar is a rescue cat named Milly with a missing fang and a big heart. 

 Vela loves hearing from readers and hopes you’ll visit her at velaroth.com.
Get a free book when you join Vela's email community! 
 Subscribe here: vroth.co/signup 
 @velarothauthor 

Friday, September 2, 2022

Blood Mercy ~ Review

Blood Mercy
by Vela Roth
Publication Date: January 26, 2022
If they reunite, a magical war could tear the kingdom apart

Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.

Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.

Steamy romance meets classic fantasy world building in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic story of forbidden love for a guaranteed series HEA.

New edition featuring a fantasy world map, glossary of lore and characters, enhanced opening chapter, and all-new cover artwork

Oh my Hesperine!, August 19, 2022
The saga continues & I am ready to riot!!
I must start by saying it’s taken me a lot longer than normal to finish this book as we have been battling a “war” of our own in real life. The solace this tale has brought in each moment of down time I’ve had this last week left me beyond grateful. Thank you, Vela Roth for creating such an addicting group of characters & weaving their tales into a stunning tapestry worthy of royalty. This world first won me over in Blood Price, & totally sealed the deal in Blood Mercy! The coming war the hesperines may face is only the beginning….the connection Cassia & Lio unveil - legendary….the mages, the secrets, the king - unrivaled….but that ending - riot worthy?!? I am screaming!!!!!!! Must HAVE answers NOW!!!!!! OH MY HESPERINE!!!!! Blood Solace here I come!

Amazon e-book ~  Autographed Book


 Vela Roth grew up with female-driven fantasy books and classic epics, then grew into romance novels. She set out to write stories that blend the rich worlds of fantasy with the passion of romance. 

 She has pursued a career in academia, worked as a web designer and book formatter, and stayed home as a full-time caregiver for her loved ones with severe illnesses. Writing through her own grief and trauma, she created the Blood Grace series, which now offers comfort to readers around the world. 

 She lives in a solar-powered writer’s garret in the Southwestern United States, finding inspiration in the mountains and growing roses in the desert. Her feline familiar is a rescue cat named Milly with a missing fang and a big heart. 

 Vela loves hearing from readers and hopes you’ll visit her at velaroth.com.
Get a free book when you join Vela's email community! 
 Subscribe here: vroth.co/signup 
 @velarothauthor 

Thursday, July 7, 2022

WET ~ Review

WET 
A Standalone Westbrook Elite Book

by Cambria Hebert
Release Date: July 12, 2022 
Making decisions I regret is basically a hobby.
So I guess it really wasn’t that surprising when I went out on a date with an Elite.
And then he tried to assault me.
I might be small, but I’m not meek. I fought him off… then went straight to the dean.
He didn’t believe me. No one does.
And now my date from hell is in revenge mode, and I somehow end up in the campus pool.
Did I mention I can’t swim?
Lucky for me, a knight in shining armor saves me from drowning.
Except he’s not wearing shining armor. He’s naked.
And he’s also Elite.
Seriously, what is up with these Elite swimmers?
Of course, I have no intention of ever seeing his very good-looking, naked highness again.
Elite obviously can’t be trusted.
Until he wraps me in his hoodie and promises to believe me.
Now I’m drowning again—but this time in his enigmatic cobalt eyes and addictive touch.
My only oxygen is him. I think I maybe could fall in love.
But will he keep his promise when I tell him the truth about his teammate?
Or will trusting Ryan with my heart and my life be just another decision to regret?

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Cover Design: Cover Me Darling LLC
Cover Photo: CJC Photography
Cover Model: Taylor Davis 
WET is the PERFECT title for this book!, July 2, 2022 
Obsessed is an understatement when it comes to Jonas Hughes …. but my obsession quickly became Ryan & Rory! Their unmistakable chemistry & adorableness is seriously addicting. Jamie stole the show a few scenes in as well. I love the bond he & Ryan have, & how he immediately adopts Rory into the bro-hood.
In all honesty it is very rare for me to truly enjoy stories involving abuse (yes, this tale has some triggering events). Yet Hebert once again tackles these topics with finesse & elegance never once going too far into that looming darkness. A rare gem awaiting it’s moment to shine. And … let’s face it, the woman writes like no other!! A kaleidoscope of suspense, action, snark, emotions, romance, unexpected connections, & smexy entertainment!
NEED MORE NOW!!!

CLICK HERE to get your copy on Amazon!!!!

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CAMBRIA HEBERT

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Cambria Hebert is the author of the young adult paranormal Heven and Hell series, the new adult Death Escorts series, and the new adult Take it Off series. She loves a caramel latte, hates math and is afraid of chickens (yes, chickens). She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair. She currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and children (both human and furry) where she is plotting her next book. You can find out more about Cambria and her work by visiting her website.

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"Like" her on Amazon &  Facebook