I am currently a guest reviewer for Nat's blog - 'Book Lover's Life'.
If you want to see more book reviews by both Nat and I, then check out her Blog NOW! (Just click the picture on the left)
ALTERNATIVELY, you can click the links below to check out what Nat is up to, what she is reading, enter her competitions and follow her.
Look forward to seeing you there!
How I Got Going With 'Book Lover's Life' Blog.
For a few months now, I have been reviewing books (e-books and paperbacks) for Nat over at Book Lovers Life.
I have found this a fantastic experience and hope to continue this on for a long time. As well as finding my reviews on her website, you can also see them here on my own and on GoodReads and Amazon UK.
I was first introduced to Book Lover's Life Blog on the 1st of September 2014. And my very first review was published on the 5th of September 2014. This review was for 'Roots' (Witchbound series, Book 1) by Kelbian Noel.
Below is my Introduction for Book Lover's Life:-
For a few months now, I have been reviewing books (e-books and paperbacks) for Nat over at Book Lovers Life.
I have found this a fantastic experience and hope to continue this on for a long time. As well as finding my reviews on her website, you can also see them here on my own and on GoodReads and Amazon UK.
I was first introduced to Book Lover's Life Blog on the 1st of September 2014. And my very first review was published on the 5th of September 2014. This review was for 'Roots' (Witchbound series, Book 1) by Kelbian Noel.
Below is my Introduction for Book Lover's Life:-
Monday, 1 September 2014 - Lets Welcome Book lovers Life New Reviewer!!!
Hi guys, its my pleasure to introduce you to my new guest reviewer Ailsa!! I'm delighted to have her on board so please lets give her a warm welcome and from me personally, Welcome aboard Alisa!! Ill pass you over to her now so you can get to know her.
My name is Ailsa Hindhaugh. I am a 29 year old female who loves nothing more than to lose myself in a great story. I am currently at home full time (back injury) and have a very understanding partner (Paul) of 10 years, who tends to give me wrong for not going to bed because I am reading.
For as long I as can remember, I have liked to read however, it has truly developed into a great love/passion of mine since I was about 16.
From about 8 years old I was mainly only interested in shark books or Goosebumps and Sweet Valley High. Once I hit High School I would only read Sharks books and crime/thrillers. This all changed when I joined my first book group that was set up by the school librarian for sixth former's. It was encouraged to try new genres, which I did and this is when I found out that I just couldn't get enough of reading everything.
I felt like up until then I had missed out on so much when it came to experiencing new and exciting stories.
In 2009, I finally (after years of applying) managed to secure my dream job. I was working for the County Council as a Library Assistant in both a prison and the local libraries in my area. I loved it more than any other job I had previously. Reading books and recommending them to our customers, as well as getting recommendations from them, was very fulfilling to me. I would travel via bus to work all over (sometimes 3 libraries in a day). I loved this job so much I would take holidays from one post and work extra at another. I was reliable and willing to work, which was what they wanted.
Unfortunately, things changed for me in 2010, when I injured my back (not work related). It became so bad, that I had to give up my job. Now 2014, still with back problems I decided to use my skills and put them to good use. Now I read books and review them, leaving reviews on various blogs and websites.
Ideally I would love to work with books again (if possible) whether I get back into the libraries or via book blogs.
I love to read all genres and basically anything I can get my hands on to. However, some of my favourites are Paranormal/romance, crime, Intrigue, YA and feel-good reads. I love series, so if there is an author out there that does a series that I can get drawn into then I will read them all. Some of my Favourite authors include Kathy Reichs (Temperance Brennan Series), Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampires Series), Janet Evanovich (Stephanie Plum Series), James Patterson (Alex Cross Series) and any author from Harlequin Intrigue (from Mills and Boon).
Now it's time to get down to reviewing books. The following reviews were written originally by me for 'Book Lover's Life'
Roots (Witchbound Series)
Book One - By Kelbian Noel.
"FOUR STRANGERS, ONE DESTINY"
Blurb.
I don’t consider myself a witch, that’s my parents’ thing. I've never really believed in magic either. Sure, I tried it a few times. Fell for the whole ‘magic happens’ thing. But it didn't happen to me. No amount of rhyming stopped my parents from moving me halfway across the country. Not one spell stopped me from being labelled the town freak.
And worst of all, no matter how many times I begged the Universe to bring my twin back, I was ignored. Until now.
He’s back all right. And in a magical bind of his own. Not the magic-won’t-work-for-me kind either. In fact, it’s working a little too well. Too dark. Too deep.
It turns out our entire family’s magical roots run just as deep and my brother didn't end up where he is by accident. So I’m going to help him. But magic isn't really on my side. Nope. Once I finally get the craft under control, I’m expected to abandon the one person in the world who’s closest to me, just to save myself.
I don’t consider myself a witch, that’s my parents’ thing. I've never really believed in magic either. Sure, I tried it a few times. Fell for the whole ‘magic happens’ thing. But it didn't happen to me. No amount of rhyming stopped my parents from moving me halfway across the country. Not one spell stopped me from being labelled the town freak.
And worst of all, no matter how many times I begged the Universe to bring my twin back, I was ignored. Until now.
He’s back all right. And in a magical bind of his own. Not the magic-won’t-work-for-me kind either. In fact, it’s working a little too well. Too dark. Too deep.
It turns out our entire family’s magical roots run just as deep and my brother didn't end up where he is by accident. So I’m going to help him. But magic isn't really on my side. Nope. Once I finally get the craft under control, I’m expected to abandon the one person in the world who’s closest to me, just to save myself.
Extract from Chapter Three
A quick, strong breeze blasts through the room, suffocating me, Eyes squeezed shut, I shield my face with my free arm.
“The company you keep, the shoes on your feet.” My eyes fly open as the familiar voice fills the room.
“Do you recognize the spirit?” Joslin squeezes my hand. “She’s speaking to you. Maybe it’s your grandmother.”
Is she serious? “Let go of my hand, I don’t want to do this anymore.”
“Not yet. Talk to her. Say something.”
“Let go!” I yank my hand away.
Joslin’s fiery eyes fly open. “No!”
I step back, ready to make a run for it, but a loud shriek freezes me I place. My arms fly to my head, as it continues, practically splitting the air in half.
When it finally stops, I’m hesitant to look up, positive the entire room is ready to ring my neck. But every single person, except Joslin and Brooklyn, is in the same terrified stance.
Summary
Baltimore is now seventeen and she has always been surrounded by magic. Her grandmother and her parents were practising witches and were even a part of a coven. Baltimore, however has never truly believed it ever existed and hates how it has made her somewhat of an outcast within the community.
After her twin brother left years earlier, Baltimore moves to a small town with her parents. People look at her and treat her differently as her family are witches. Only thing is, Baltimore doesn't believe in it at all.
A school trip is planned to visit a University and as far as her parents are aware, Baltimore is heading there with her school and best friend, and as far as her school knows, she didn't get permission to go from her mum and dad while they are attending there coven. Of course, the only one Baltimore trusts with where she is really going is Bridgett, her BFF.
Now that Baltimore has found her twin brother Brooklyn after two years she is secretly going to see him. She can’t tell her parents as they will make Brooklyn return home, but he ran due to him feeling ‘smothered’ by them.
When Baltimore arrives at the meeting place, Brooklyn turns up in a car and surprises her but taking her to a beautiful home which reminds her of her grandmother. [Their grandmother died years earlier and when they were younger she used to tell them stories of the ‘Elementals’ – a powerful group of four witches and how there were evil (‘Tainted’) witches out to gain back the full power they feel they deserve, by destroying the ‘Elementals’.]
On arriving at Brooklyn’s home, she meets his roommates and his girlfriend Joslin, Margo, Tarik, Stone, Wheeler and the ‘resident hunk’ Nate.
Baltimore soon realises that her twin has changed. He now believes in witchcraft and is actively practicing with his roommates as a coven, led by Brooklyn’s girlfriend, Joslin.
On Baltimore’s arrival, the group rope her in to taking part in a séance, where a sudden scream rings out warning Baltimore to run, but thinking it is her twin playing a joke, she stays, only for things to go wrong very quickly.
Follow Baltimore’s journey into the world of witchcraft. Within a few days her world is turned upside down. How is she going to save the ones she loves? And how does she actually fit in this ‘witch’ world?
Baltimore is now seventeen and she has always been surrounded by magic. Her grandmother and her parents were practising witches and were even a part of a coven. Baltimore, however has never truly believed it ever existed and hates how it has made her somewhat of an outcast within the community.
After her twin brother left years earlier, Baltimore moves to a small town with her parents. People look at her and treat her differently as her family are witches. Only thing is, Baltimore doesn't believe in it at all.
A school trip is planned to visit a University and as far as her parents are aware, Baltimore is heading there with her school and best friend, and as far as her school knows, she didn't get permission to go from her mum and dad while they are attending there coven. Of course, the only one Baltimore trusts with where she is really going is Bridgett, her BFF.
Now that Baltimore has found her twin brother Brooklyn after two years she is secretly going to see him. She can’t tell her parents as they will make Brooklyn return home, but he ran due to him feeling ‘smothered’ by them.
When Baltimore arrives at the meeting place, Brooklyn turns up in a car and surprises her but taking her to a beautiful home which reminds her of her grandmother. [Their grandmother died years earlier and when they were younger she used to tell them stories of the ‘Elementals’ – a powerful group of four witches and how there were evil (‘Tainted’) witches out to gain back the full power they feel they deserve, by destroying the ‘Elementals’.]
On arriving at Brooklyn’s home, she meets his roommates and his girlfriend Joslin, Margo, Tarik, Stone, Wheeler and the ‘resident hunk’ Nate.
Baltimore soon realises that her twin has changed. He now believes in witchcraft and is actively practicing with his roommates as a coven, led by Brooklyn’s girlfriend, Joslin.
On Baltimore’s arrival, the group rope her in to taking part in a séance, where a sudden scream rings out warning Baltimore to run, but thinking it is her twin playing a joke, she stays, only for things to go wrong very quickly.
Follow Baltimore’s journey into the world of witchcraft. Within a few days her world is turned upside down. How is she going to save the ones she loves? And how does she actually fit in this ‘witch’ world?
My Thoughts
Overall, I was very pleased with this book. The story was great and gripping although it did take a little while to get into (personally I found the first chapter just kind of started rather abruptly) but once I got further into the book, I found it fairly hard to put down.
Although the beginning was difficult to get in to, it is definitely worth sticking with as you will not be disappointed.
The heroine of the story is Baltimore. Following other YA stories I have read. Baltimore is not the typical heroine that you would normally find in a story, which makes a fantastic change and is probably why I enjoyed this so much.
Kelbian Noel was able to grip readers almost from the onset and the way the story is told; the characters and the plot, I can honestly say this is going to be a must read series in YA Paranormal/Fantasy genre.
The in-depth detail in the subject of Magic was surprisingly fascinating and although it is not a subject I am particularly knowledgeable on, it is clear that Noel did a lot of research to be able to make this series what it is.
If you are looking for a fast-paced, action packed story, then this is the one for you. With various twists and turns and a lot of family secrets, you will be surprised what you will learn along with the main characters in this series.
If you are a paranormal/fantasy fan, then this is a series for you. Fans of Charmed, Willow from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Witches of East End, then you are in for a treat with ‘Witchbound’.
My Rating
Although I loved this story, I give this book 4.5 out of 5. I would have given ‘Roots’ full marks if it wasn't for the disappointing beginning. This is available for download now from Amazon.
You can now see the Book Trailer now for 'Roots'
Although I loved this story, I give this book 4.5 out of 5. I would have given ‘Roots’ full marks if it wasn't for the disappointing beginning. This is available for download now from Amazon.
You can now see the Book Trailer now for 'Roots'
Product Details
- Format: Kindle Edition(£2.09) File Size: 434 KB Print Length: 288 pages Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1482790297 Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l. ASIN: B008MZ59Q0
- Paperback: 286 pages(£7.77) Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 2 edition (21 Mar 2013) ISBN-10: 1482790297 ISBN-13: 978-1482790290 Product Dimensions: 20.3 x 12.7 x 1.7 cm
Sprung (Witchbound Series)
Book Two - By Kelbian Noel
See Intro page for rating scale.
"FOUR STRANGERS, ONE DESTINY"
Blurb.
Since she discovered magic, seventeen-year-old Skye Jackson's life is almost perfect. Almost. Even perfect has its glitches.
What happens when the one with all the power makes the biggest mistakes? Welcome to my life.
Four months ago, I couldn’t have been happier. When my parents got divorced, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. Especially when Mom married a guy half her age.
But then I found out I wasn't the average 'Joana'. Discovering magic existed and, best of all, I could use it, made everything easier to deal with.
That is until I got a little too spell happy. But what girl wouldn't defend her best friend against a world-class creep?
Now I’m stuck in a nightmare, forced to make life and death decisions I never dreamed I’d face.
Since she discovered magic, seventeen-year-old Skye Jackson's life is almost perfect. Almost. Even perfect has its glitches.
What happens when the one with all the power makes the biggest mistakes? Welcome to my life.
Four months ago, I couldn’t have been happier. When my parents got divorced, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. Especially when Mom married a guy half her age.
But then I found out I wasn't the average 'Joana'. Discovering magic existed and, best of all, I could use it, made everything easier to deal with.
That is until I got a little too spell happy. But what girl wouldn't defend her best friend against a world-class creep?
Now I’m stuck in a nightmare, forced to make life and death decisions I never dreamed I’d face.
Extract from Chapter Twenty-Two
It’s been days since we’'e seen each other and the last meeting has me wondering if this is a good idea. It’s not like we have that much of a choice, but I’m still nervous about how she’ll react, when I tell her what I've done this time. If I tell her at all.
'Hey, Nana. I've effed up two more spells since the last time you screamed at me. Remember that guy I killed?
Well I brought him back to life, now he’s going crazy.
Oh and by the way, this is Ramon some other guy I summoned with another spell I had no business doing.
Think you can help us out?'
That’ll go over well.
Summary.
Skye Jackson is a seventeen year old girl, who has just dealt with her parent’s divorce. Although she is pleased they are no longer together, now she lives with her mother and new ‘boy toy’ husband who continually tries to be her ‘new dad’.
She starts visiting her Nana more who for the past five years has not spoken to anyone and is residing in a home. That is until recently. Now her Nan is talking only to Skye and what she has to say is taking up all of Skye’s time. Her nana has informed her that their family is magic and that she herself is a very powerful witch.
Now neglecting her family, friends and boyfriend so she can visit her Nana, they both practice magic. Life to Skye couldn’t be any better even though it has led her to losing her boyfriend (who is feeling left out of her life.)
Things in Skye’s are taking for granted when it comes to magic and using it to her advantage, but when a boy mistreats her best friend Claire and starts an untrue/unflattering rumour around school, Skye decides something needs to be done to teach him as lesson.
She decides to use magic, but soon things go terribly wrong. Skye faces dilemma’s and is left with more questions than answers.
Following magical mistakes what can she do to fix them?
How can she use magic to help her friend who is in trouble for something that is her fault?
And finally, how can she truly learn to use magic safely and learn what she truly has?
It so becomes clear to Skye that magic comes with consequences.
Now her Nana is back to her old self and not talking to anyone, she needs guidance, but who can really help her even though she now knows that there are some things you are just better off not knowing.
Skye Jackson is a seventeen year old girl, who has just dealt with her parent’s divorce. Although she is pleased they are no longer together, now she lives with her mother and new ‘boy toy’ husband who continually tries to be her ‘new dad’.
She starts visiting her Nana more who for the past five years has not spoken to anyone and is residing in a home. That is until recently. Now her Nan is talking only to Skye and what she has to say is taking up all of Skye’s time. Her nana has informed her that their family is magic and that she herself is a very powerful witch.
Now neglecting her family, friends and boyfriend so she can visit her Nana, they both practice magic. Life to Skye couldn’t be any better even though it has led her to losing her boyfriend (who is feeling left out of her life.)
Things in Skye’s are taking for granted when it comes to magic and using it to her advantage, but when a boy mistreats her best friend Claire and starts an untrue/unflattering rumour around school, Skye decides something needs to be done to teach him as lesson.
She decides to use magic, but soon things go terribly wrong. Skye faces dilemma’s and is left with more questions than answers.
Following magical mistakes what can she do to fix them?
How can she use magic to help her friend who is in trouble for something that is her fault?
And finally, how can she truly learn to use magic safely and learn what she truly has?
It so becomes clear to Skye that magic comes with consequences.
Now her Nana is back to her old self and not talking to anyone, she needs guidance, but who can really help her even though she now knows that there are some things you are just better off not knowing.
My Views.
Slightly, disappointed as it wasn’t another fantastic story about Baltimore, however the heroine, Skye has helped to make up for any disappointment that I may have had starting this book.
I am pleased to say that I was immediately gripped with this, right from the beginning. My personal opinion, is that Kelbian Noel eventually got her groove and this flow from Book one to Book two was seamless, even though they are about two different characters.
Again, Kelbian Noel was able to grip me from the onset with a fantastic plot, great detail and of course the characters. After reading this book, I realised that each book within this series is going to be introducing you to each elemental, which to me personally I find fascinating.
There were quite a few similarities between the heroines in both ‘Roots’ and ‘Sprung’, for instance both Baltimore and Skye are the same age and are no longer with their boyfriends. It also seems that their grandparents have played a huge part in their lives, when it comes to magic. Skye’s grandmother although in a home and has not spoken to anyone in years, suddenly starts to talk but only to her. This is when Skye learns about magic and they both practice spells together and it seems Skye is now obsessed with it whereas Brooklyn truly doesn’t want anything to do with it until it become vital and important to use it to help save and protect not just herself, her sisters, the one’s she loves but to also protect pure magic. Each family have their own special ‘book of shadows’ which is passed down from generation to generation and now it is their turn to use them.
To me this is where their similarities stop. These two heroines are individual in their own right and they both make great main characters.
I love how they were able to bring some of the characters from the ‘Roots’ into the second story and how Ramon is a special part in the Elemental Sisters lives, which to me was a surprise, especially following what happened in the first book.
This was definitely fast paced, exciting and full of unbelievable action and surprises. With a wide range of twists and turns and the introduction of both old and new characters ‘Sprung’ is a fantastic continuation of the ‘Witchbound’ Series.
‘Sprung’ has made me excited to continue reading the series and to learn more about the Elemental Sisters, their magic and of course their lives.
If you are a paranormal/fantasy fan, then this is a series for you. Fans of Charmed, Willow from Buffy, then you are in for a treat with the ‘Witchbound’.
Slightly, disappointed as it wasn’t another fantastic story about Baltimore, however the heroine, Skye has helped to make up for any disappointment that I may have had starting this book.
I am pleased to say that I was immediately gripped with this, right from the beginning. My personal opinion, is that Kelbian Noel eventually got her groove and this flow from Book one to Book two was seamless, even though they are about two different characters.
Again, Kelbian Noel was able to grip me from the onset with a fantastic plot, great detail and of course the characters. After reading this book, I realised that each book within this series is going to be introducing you to each elemental, which to me personally I find fascinating.
There were quite a few similarities between the heroines in both ‘Roots’ and ‘Sprung’, for instance both Baltimore and Skye are the same age and are no longer with their boyfriends. It also seems that their grandparents have played a huge part in their lives, when it comes to magic. Skye’s grandmother although in a home and has not spoken to anyone in years, suddenly starts to talk but only to her. This is when Skye learns about magic and they both practice spells together and it seems Skye is now obsessed with it whereas Brooklyn truly doesn’t want anything to do with it until it become vital and important to use it to help save and protect not just herself, her sisters, the one’s she loves but to also protect pure magic. Each family have their own special ‘book of shadows’ which is passed down from generation to generation and now it is their turn to use them.
To me this is where their similarities stop. These two heroines are individual in their own right and they both make great main characters.
I love how they were able to bring some of the characters from the ‘Roots’ into the second story and how Ramon is a special part in the Elemental Sisters lives, which to me was a surprise, especially following what happened in the first book.
This was definitely fast paced, exciting and full of unbelievable action and surprises. With a wide range of twists and turns and the introduction of both old and new characters ‘Sprung’ is a fantastic continuation of the ‘Witchbound’ Series.
‘Sprung’ has made me excited to continue reading the series and to learn more about the Elemental Sisters, their magic and of course their lives.
If you are a paranormal/fantasy fan, then this is a series for you. Fans of Charmed, Willow from Buffy, then you are in for a treat with the ‘Witchbound’.
My Rating
For me ‘Sprung’ deserves full marks – 5 out of 5! Was pleased to have been given the opportunity to read it and truly can’t wait to read ‘Smolder’ (Book Three) from the fantastic fantasy series ‘Witchbound’. You can download this now from Amazon UK.
You can now see the Book Trailer now for 'Sprung'
For me ‘Sprung’ deserves full marks – 5 out of 5! Was pleased to have been given the opportunity to read it and truly can’t wait to read ‘Smolder’ (Book Three) from the fantastic fantasy series ‘Witchbound’. You can download this now from Amazon UK.
You can now see the Book Trailer now for 'Sprung'
Product Details
- Format: Kindle Edition(£2.09) File Size: 457 KB Print Length: 337 pages Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1484044622 Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l. ASIN: B00C4XJ534
- Paperback: 336 pages(£8.18) Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (4 April 2013) ISBN-10: 1484044622 ISBN-13: 978-1484044629 Product Dimensions: 2.1 x 12.7 x 20.3 cm
Smolder (Witchbound Series)
Book Three By Kelbian Noel
For a list of scale ratings click on 'Intro' now!
Blurb
“Calida Cevallos has never been special. In fact, as far as she’s concerned, there isn’t an exceptional bone in her body. But, this summer, she’ll discover extraordinary literally runs through her veins.
I’ve always been a burden. The girl people put up with, the one they tolerated. When I finally found someone who actually wanted me around, I couldn’t have be happier. But lately something’s been bubbling at the surface. Something wants to break free…and I’m afraid it’s me.
I love him. And, for a time, I thought I needed him. Now I’m not so sure. These days, I get the feeling I’m the one who’s needed. By whom? I’m about to find out.”
Summary
Calida is an orphan. Her parents were killed in a fire. From the age of 13 she has bounced from foster home to foster home with no memory of her earlier years.
She meets Ramon who saves her from a burning building and from then on, they have been inseparable.
Out of the blue, Calida is contacted by a solicitor. He has items that had been left by her family (a house, money and a small green book). As Ramon is away working, Calida decides not to tell him about any of this. She wants to explore this on her own.
She visits the house which has been left to her and is surprised with how much she likes it. On one visit she is attacked by a cat, which from then on refuses to leave her side.
When he returns, Calida informs Ramon that she wants to look into her family and asks if he would be willing to visit Raleigh with her in search of any information about her family and who she really is. Ramon is unable to go, so Calida decides to go alone.
She boards a bus heading to Raleigh, but is distracted by the cat (which has somehow managed to get on the bus with her). She gets off the bus and the cat runs away. Calida goes searching for it, but gets lost and misses the bus.
Now, Calida is stuck in a small town for days and upon exploring it she realises its special.
Follow Calida in her adventure, in discovering who she is, where she comes from and all about her family.
My Thoughts
I loved the first two stories and was definitely looking forward to reading this third instalment to the Witchbound series.
Calida is a remarkable girl, who despite her life’s ups and downs she is able to overcome her fears of being alone and most importantly, being independent.
With a slightly complicated love life and various family surprises along the way, Calida is in for one hell of a ride.
All I can say is if you are a fan of fantasy, romance, friendships, magic and more, then this is DEFINITELY the book and the series for you.
“Calida Cevallos has never been special. In fact, as far as she’s concerned, there isn’t an exceptional bone in her body. But, this summer, she’ll discover extraordinary literally runs through her veins.
I’ve always been a burden. The girl people put up with, the one they tolerated. When I finally found someone who actually wanted me around, I couldn’t have be happier. But lately something’s been bubbling at the surface. Something wants to break free…and I’m afraid it’s me.
I love him. And, for a time, I thought I needed him. Now I’m not so sure. These days, I get the feeling I’m the one who’s needed. By whom? I’m about to find out.”
Summary
Calida is an orphan. Her parents were killed in a fire. From the age of 13 she has bounced from foster home to foster home with no memory of her earlier years.
She meets Ramon who saves her from a burning building and from then on, they have been inseparable.
Out of the blue, Calida is contacted by a solicitor. He has items that had been left by her family (a house, money and a small green book). As Ramon is away working, Calida decides not to tell him about any of this. She wants to explore this on her own.
She visits the house which has been left to her and is surprised with how much she likes it. On one visit she is attacked by a cat, which from then on refuses to leave her side.
When he returns, Calida informs Ramon that she wants to look into her family and asks if he would be willing to visit Raleigh with her in search of any information about her family and who she really is. Ramon is unable to go, so Calida decides to go alone.
She boards a bus heading to Raleigh, but is distracted by the cat (which has somehow managed to get on the bus with her). She gets off the bus and the cat runs away. Calida goes searching for it, but gets lost and misses the bus.
Now, Calida is stuck in a small town for days and upon exploring it she realises its special.
Follow Calida in her adventure, in discovering who she is, where she comes from and all about her family.
My Thoughts
I loved the first two stories and was definitely looking forward to reading this third instalment to the Witchbound series.
Calida is a remarkable girl, who despite her life’s ups and downs she is able to overcome her fears of being alone and most importantly, being independent.
With a slightly complicated love life and various family surprises along the way, Calida is in for one hell of a ride.
All I can say is if you are a fan of fantasy, romance, friendships, magic and more, then this is DEFINITELY the book and the series for you.
My Rating
I rate this a 5 out of 5 for both the book and the series.
I would recommend this series to anyone from a Young Adult age and over. If you like Charmed and Witches of East End then this is the right series for you.
I rate this a 5 out of 5 for both the book and the series.
I would recommend this series to anyone from a Young Adult age and over. If you like Charmed and Witches of East End then this is the right series for you.
Product Details
- Format: Kindle Edition(£1.85) File Size: 372 KB Print Length: 202 pages Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l. ASIN: B00N7KCSHI
Vanished From Dust
By Shea Norwood
"HE SEES THEM EVERYWHERE"
Blurb
“A chill runs through his skin as the phantom appears.
He sees them everywhere. . .
Eric Stark is not insane. Or at least he doesn’t think so. He wishes everyone in Dust, Texas, felt the same way. But that’s not going to happen since the whole town thinks he’s crazy. Why didn’t he keep his mouth shut?
No one understands. Eric is alone as he battles his sanity in a town of tormentors. Suddenly a new friendship emerges after the new kid, Kyle Barrett, moves to town. Eric reluctantly reveals his secret. Is it a curse or a gift? He isn’t certain, but with Kyle by his side he finds the courage to seek the truth.
They soon realize that something sinister is descending on the residents of Dust. Is it caused by Eric’s phantoms or is it something else? Is it connected to the mysterious death of hundreds of townspeople over sixty years ago? One thing is certain—only Eric and Kyle can save them.
They set out on a heart-pounding adventure and find themselves transported to a disturbed and deserted version of their small southern town. They quickly discover that this new world has mysteries of its own to uncover. What they find could prove more than they bargained for, and it only leads to more questions. Eric and Kyle must face a horrifying fact—they may never get out alive.
“We’re gonna die here,” Kyle muttered.
“I don’t believe that,” Eric said. “And neither do you.”
Will they survive their encounter with these dark and mysterious beings?
Will they find a way back home?
Or will they be lost forever?”
“A chill runs through his skin as the phantom appears.
He sees them everywhere. . .
Eric Stark is not insane. Or at least he doesn’t think so. He wishes everyone in Dust, Texas, felt the same way. But that’s not going to happen since the whole town thinks he’s crazy. Why didn’t he keep his mouth shut?
No one understands. Eric is alone as he battles his sanity in a town of tormentors. Suddenly a new friendship emerges after the new kid, Kyle Barrett, moves to town. Eric reluctantly reveals his secret. Is it a curse or a gift? He isn’t certain, but with Kyle by his side he finds the courage to seek the truth.
They soon realize that something sinister is descending on the residents of Dust. Is it caused by Eric’s phantoms or is it something else? Is it connected to the mysterious death of hundreds of townspeople over sixty years ago? One thing is certain—only Eric and Kyle can save them.
They set out on a heart-pounding adventure and find themselves transported to a disturbed and deserted version of their small southern town. They quickly discover that this new world has mysteries of its own to uncover. What they find could prove more than they bargained for, and it only leads to more questions. Eric and Kyle must face a horrifying fact—they may never get out alive.
“We’re gonna die here,” Kyle muttered.
“I don’t believe that,” Eric said. “And neither do you.”
Will they survive their encounter with these dark and mysterious beings?
Will they find a way back home?
Or will they be lost forever?”
Extract from Chapter One
“I’m not crazy,” Eric Stark shouted at the crowd of seventh graders as they surrounded him. He looked up from the ground, which consisted of patches of grass and dirt, to see the sunlight glinting off of the metal braces of a girl with pigtails as she pointed and laughed with the rest of them. Another boy kicked him in the stomach, causing him to retreat into a fetal position to guard against another blow.
“Oh yeah?” Greg Coffey asked as he towered over Eric. His lip was curled, showing his crooked, heavily stained teeth. “What happened last week in class? You said, ‘They’re watching me.’ Remember that, loser?”
“I didn’t say that.” Eric tried to get up, but Greg pushed him back down and kicked dirt in his face. Eric rubbed his burning eyes with both hands. When he opened them he saw four more kids sneering over him, all laughing at his expense. Where was a teacher when you needed one? The hot Texas sun was high on the horizon, almost blinding him as he stared back at his tormentors. Sweat was pouring from his brow, mixing with the tears that streamed down his face.
“Yeah you did,” Adam Marshall said with a smirk. “You’re going off the rails,
crazy train.”
“I like that—crazy train. Just like the song,” Greg said. He laughed and gave Adam a high five. “That’s your new name. Like it?” Greg kicked another pile of dirt at Eric. Eric tried to spit it out, but his entire face was covered in a muddy film. He wished that he’d just kept his mouth shut about it, but it was too late now. News traveled fast in a small town, and he was sure everyone thought he was insane by now.
He didn’t know what he was.
“Leave him alone,” a kid said. He leaned over to help Eric to his feet. “I don’t like bullies.”
“Stay out of it, new kid.” Greg said and gave him a scowling stare.
“Or what?” The kid got closer.
“Let’s go,” Adam said. “There’s a teacher coming.” He slapped Greg on the shoulder.
“This ain’t over,” Greg said as he walked away. “Thanks,” Eric said.
“I’m Kyle Barrett,” the kid said, extending his hand.
Eric shook it. “Did you just move here?”
“Yeah, this is my first day,” Kyle said. “It’s hard being the new kid. No one talks to you.”
“No one talks to me either, except to make fun of me,” Eric said.
Summary (in my words)
This is a story about a fourteen year old boy from Texas, called Eric. Eric isn’t your ‘usual, normal’ child and is constantly bullied by others at his school. One day he is being beaten by a bully when the new boy at school, Kyle steps in to defend Eric. From this point on they become instant friends, but Eric is hiding something from his one and only friend.
Eric is different. He can see and communicate with ghosts.
One night (while Kyle is sleeping over at Eric’s) they decide to play ‘Knock Knock’ when they should be in bed. Once they know Eric’s parents are asleep they sneak out and start knocking on neighbours doors and then hide so they can watch to see if anyone comes out. When one neighbour answers the door holding a shotgun, this scares them so they decide to run.
While running a safe distance from the gun wielding neighbour, Eric notices a shadowy figure at the door of the abandoned theatre.
Soon they both come to the conclusion that there is something not right going on in their home town and they decide to try and solve it.
Eric convinced he did see something in the abandoned theatre, the pair decides to investigate.
While investigating, strange shadowy, dark beings appear around them. The questions I will leave you with is; Are they safe? Will they survive? And are they going to get to the bottom of the strange occurrences that has been going on in their home town?
My Thoughts
Eric is a very special child with an amazing gift that first presented itself at the age of eight, which unfortunately isn’t understood by anyone which makes him an outcast. Having the ability to see phantoms/shadows/demons/dark creatures (depending on what you call them) means he has gone through a rather unpleasant childhood (only 14 at this point), which has included ridicule and beatings from bullies and having his parents sending him to a ‘specialist’.
The book starts with Eric and his “friend” Josh walking to school together. This is not a friendship but is an arrangement set up by Eric’s mum. Once they are far enough away, they go their separate ways.
Kyle is the new boy of the school and when he witnesses Eric being beaten, he steps in and defends him. Immediately, they realise they are similar in many ways (especially when it comes to creating mischief and playing video games) and become instant best friends. They become inseparable.
When they play their favourite mischievous game of ‘knock, knock’, Eric notices a figure standing inside the abandoned theatre in front of the door. At this point Eric has had it. The only other person who understands what he sees is the town drunk. This is when Kyle and Eric decide to investigate (Eric mainly wants to know once and for all if he is crazy like everyone thinks he is or whether what he is seeing is real).
This is a story about a fourteen year old boy from Texas, called Eric. Eric isn’t your ‘usual, normal’ child and is constantly bullied by others at his school. One day he is being beaten by a bully when the new boy at school, Kyle steps in to defend Eric. From this point on they become instant friends, but Eric is hiding something from his one and only friend.
Eric is different. He can see and communicate with ghosts.
One night (while Kyle is sleeping over at Eric’s) they decide to play ‘Knock Knock’ when they should be in bed. Once they know Eric’s parents are asleep they sneak out and start knocking on neighbours doors and then hide so they can watch to see if anyone comes out. When one neighbour answers the door holding a shotgun, this scares them so they decide to run.
While running a safe distance from the gun wielding neighbour, Eric notices a shadowy figure at the door of the abandoned theatre.
Soon they both come to the conclusion that there is something not right going on in their home town and they decide to try and solve it.
Eric convinced he did see something in the abandoned theatre, the pair decides to investigate.
While investigating, strange shadowy, dark beings appear around them. The questions I will leave you with is; Are they safe? Will they survive? And are they going to get to the bottom of the strange occurrences that has been going on in their home town?
My Thoughts
Eric is a very special child with an amazing gift that first presented itself at the age of eight, which unfortunately isn’t understood by anyone which makes him an outcast. Having the ability to see phantoms/shadows/demons/dark creatures (depending on what you call them) means he has gone through a rather unpleasant childhood (only 14 at this point), which has included ridicule and beatings from bullies and having his parents sending him to a ‘specialist’.
The book starts with Eric and his “friend” Josh walking to school together. This is not a friendship but is an arrangement set up by Eric’s mum. Once they are far enough away, they go their separate ways.
Kyle is the new boy of the school and when he witnesses Eric being beaten, he steps in and defends him. Immediately, they realise they are similar in many ways (especially when it comes to creating mischief and playing video games) and become instant best friends. They become inseparable.
When they play their favourite mischievous game of ‘knock, knock’, Eric notices a figure standing inside the abandoned theatre in front of the door. At this point Eric has had it. The only other person who understands what he sees is the town drunk. This is when Kyle and Eric decide to investigate (Eric mainly wants to know once and for all if he is crazy like everyone thinks he is or whether what he is seeing is real).
My Rating
Although, I found this book a little bit slow to start with, it most definitely picked up. I found the characters very likeable and a perfect match for one another, they were more like true brothers than just friends.
For this reason, I would rate this book an overall 4 (although the beginning for me would be rated at about a 3 to 3.5. As the book progressed as the story went on and became extremely fascinating - this is why I rate it an overall 4)
Although, I found this book a little bit slow to start with, it most definitely picked up. I found the characters very likeable and a perfect match for one another, they were more like true brothers than just friends.
For this reason, I would rate this book an overall 4 (although the beginning for me would be rated at about a 3 to 3.5. As the book progressed as the story went on and became extremely fascinating - this is why I rate it an overall 4)
Product Details
- Format: Kindle Edition(£4.58) File Size: 864 KB Print Length: 324 pages Publisher: Dust Devil Press; Second edition (1 Oct 2013) Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l. ASIN: B00FBZXMHW
- Paperback: 322 pages(£8.12) Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (16 Oct 2013) ISBN-10: 1492993409 ISBN-13: 978-1492993407 Product Dimensions: 13.3 x 2.1 x 20.3 cm
Caged Moon (Book1 - The Caged
Moon Series) By Rachel Deagan
See Intro for rating scale
Blurb
"Haunted by an animal attack, seventeen year old Charlotte feels she is being followed. When she runs into a mysterious boy while camping, she’s afraid. Nothing seems right about him.
Despite trying to stay away, there is an unmistakable draw to be near him. Even his scent smells familiar. But the closer she gets, the faster the secrets begin to unravel. Not only is he not human, he may have a link to her past.
When Charlotte finds out someone wants her dead, she is torn between love and fear. Can she trust him to keep her safe?"
"Haunted by an animal attack, seventeen year old Charlotte feels she is being followed. When she runs into a mysterious boy while camping, she’s afraid. Nothing seems right about him.
Despite trying to stay away, there is an unmistakable draw to be near him. Even his scent smells familiar. But the closer she gets, the faster the secrets begin to unravel. Not only is he not human, he may have a link to her past.
When Charlotte finds out someone wants her dead, she is torn between love and fear. Can she trust him to keep her safe?"
Excerpt – Taken from Caged Moon
“The moon allowed a small sliver of its light to escape through the branches above me. I thought it enough to see, but my foot snagged on something. I stubbed two steps and then lost my balance. My hands burned as I caught myself on the rocks.
I sat there, halfcocked on my hands and knees, welling in my inward disgust, when something wet touched my ear. Instinctively I jumped back, catching myself with my raw hands. It sting but I didn’t care. I could barely see.
Wetness brushed my hand, and I let out a short high-pitched scream. My head felt light and then I heard a bark amongst the soft scampering in the leaves. My chest seized up. Dogs terrified me.
The soft furry creature nudged his head against me, and I succumbed to another scream as I tried to back away. Laughter filled my ears and I clenched my teeth."
My Thoughts
This is a perfect combination of fantasy, paranormal romance that is a fantastic read from beginning to end.
If you are a fan of authors such as Felicity Heaton then this series by Rachel Deagan is a must read on your series list.
This book introduces you to Charlotte. When she was little she was attacked by an animal and ever since this incident, her life has been anything by normal. Now that Charlotte is older, she feels very different. She feels like she doesn’t belong or fit in with other girls and boys her age and on top of that, she has noticed that there are wolves that keep following her. Thinking that she is losing her mind, Charlotte meets a mysterious boy called Liam out in the woods. This for Charlotte is where things slowly start to make sense. Liam starts to help Charlotte find out more about herself, but what do you do when the one person who is helping you, could also turn out to be someone whom is out to get you?
This is a story about discovering your true self (well, at least it is in Charlotte’s case). The storyline and the characters are expertly written and crafted in a way that will keep you wanting/needing more.
This is one hell of an ab-fab story that will truly blow you away! For me Charlotte was as a character very likable and you can’t help but feel sorry for her when she feels so out of place, that is until she finally meets people her own age that make her feel connected and more importantly (for her) ‘normal’.
There have been very few Werewolf related stories out there that I have truly loved and wanted to read more from a particular author (I can count on one hand authors that I have loved and have read anything I can get my hands on written by them); now thanks to Rachel Deagan I now have a new series and author that I can add to my very small, specially selected Paranormal/fantasy/romance/YA genre that revolves around Werewolves, So thanks you Rachel.
This is a perfect combination of fantasy, paranormal romance that is a fantastic read from beginning to end.
If you are a fan of authors such as Felicity Heaton then this series by Rachel Deagan is a must read on your series list.
This book introduces you to Charlotte. When she was little she was attacked by an animal and ever since this incident, her life has been anything by normal. Now that Charlotte is older, she feels very different. She feels like she doesn’t belong or fit in with other girls and boys her age and on top of that, she has noticed that there are wolves that keep following her. Thinking that she is losing her mind, Charlotte meets a mysterious boy called Liam out in the woods. This for Charlotte is where things slowly start to make sense. Liam starts to help Charlotte find out more about herself, but what do you do when the one person who is helping you, could also turn out to be someone whom is out to get you?
This is a story about discovering your true self (well, at least it is in Charlotte’s case). The storyline and the characters are expertly written and crafted in a way that will keep you wanting/needing more.
This is one hell of an ab-fab story that will truly blow you away! For me Charlotte was as a character very likable and you can’t help but feel sorry for her when she feels so out of place, that is until she finally meets people her own age that make her feel connected and more importantly (for her) ‘normal’.
There have been very few Werewolf related stories out there that I have truly loved and wanted to read more from a particular author (I can count on one hand authors that I have loved and have read anything I can get my hands on written by them); now thanks to Rachel Deagan I now have a new series and author that I can add to my very small, specially selected Paranormal/fantasy/romance/YA genre that revolves around Werewolves, So thanks you Rachel.
My Rating
What can I say about this fabulous book, Caged Moon? Well, when it comes to my rating I can’t help but give it a solid 4.5 out of 5. I have not given it a full 5 out of 5, as I have yet to read the second book in this series and I have a feeling I may be slightly disappointed if Rachel Deagan doesn’t continue on and write more stories relating to this series. I would love to see how Charlotte learns to deal with everything and how her new friends take a part in her life. I think it will be rather interesting as well to may be have individual stories of the characters mentioned in this book such as Liam (slight spoiler alert! Her second book is supposed to be from Liam’s point of view) and maybe Byron, but to also incorporate Charlotte into their tales.
This is a book that you are bound to fall in love with and you may even develop a little bit of a ‘fiction crush’ for Liam (he is a totally sweetie).
When it comes to a romantic, paranormal story there is none greater than a love that is so consuming, that it is literally breath-taking.
If you are unsure if this is something that you may or may not be interested in, all I will say is if you like a good romance or you are a fan of urban fantasy, YA, paranormal or even just general fiction I am pleading with you to PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE just give this book a go. I really do feel like you will be surprised.
This book ticked all the boxes for me! From amazing characters, to fabulously written storyline, this book covers all major formats and genres for me. If you are looking for suspense, fantasy, paranormal, YA, action, romance, love and a whole lot more then this book – Caged Moon by Rachel Deagan is the perfect match for all to read.
THANK YOU, Rachel – You managed to write a story that keeps you wanting/needing and yearning for more. This was a truly 'unputdownable' book from start to finish and I look forward to reading more.
What can I say about this fabulous book, Caged Moon? Well, when it comes to my rating I can’t help but give it a solid 4.5 out of 5. I have not given it a full 5 out of 5, as I have yet to read the second book in this series and I have a feeling I may be slightly disappointed if Rachel Deagan doesn’t continue on and write more stories relating to this series. I would love to see how Charlotte learns to deal with everything and how her new friends take a part in her life. I think it will be rather interesting as well to may be have individual stories of the characters mentioned in this book such as Liam (slight spoiler alert! Her second book is supposed to be from Liam’s point of view) and maybe Byron, but to also incorporate Charlotte into their tales.
This is a book that you are bound to fall in love with and you may even develop a little bit of a ‘fiction crush’ for Liam (he is a totally sweetie).
When it comes to a romantic, paranormal story there is none greater than a love that is so consuming, that it is literally breath-taking.
If you are unsure if this is something that you may or may not be interested in, all I will say is if you like a good romance or you are a fan of urban fantasy, YA, paranormal or even just general fiction I am pleading with you to PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE just give this book a go. I really do feel like you will be surprised.
This book ticked all the boxes for me! From amazing characters, to fabulously written storyline, this book covers all major formats and genres for me. If you are looking for suspense, fantasy, paranormal, YA, action, romance, love and a whole lot more then this book – Caged Moon by Rachel Deagan is the perfect match for all to read.
THANK YOU, Rachel – You managed to write a story that keeps you wanting/needing and yearning for more. This was a truly 'unputdownable' book from start to finish and I look forward to reading more.
Product Details
- Paperback: 264 pages(£6.92), Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (18 Jan. 2012), ISBN-10: 1468194992, ISBN-13: 978-1468194999
- Format: Kindle Edition(£2.18), File Size: 521 KB, Print Length: 261 pages, Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l., ASIN: B006ZGU5CQ
