Today is my turn on the blog tour for Shadow of the Witch by Colin Garrow.
Here’s the blurb
London, 1677. A house with a dark secret. A lawyer in pursuit of magick. A witch, dead for fifty years.
Israel Cutler, dealer in second-hand goods, discovers the journals of Doctor Winter. Detailing the doctor’s relationship with a hanged witch, he recognises an opportunity. Seeking out a lawyer he knows with an interest in the occult, Cutler tries to sell the journals, but soon finds himself involved in a terrifying ritual—one that could bring black witch Lizzie Pickin back from the dead. Again.
Forced into a dangerous partnership, the witch leads Cutler on a trail of murder and revenge.
In this horror series set in London, Shadow of the Witch is book #2 in the Black Witch Saga.
Review
I’m a big fan of Colin’s work, who seems to be able to turn his hand to any genre effortlessly.. I know it’s not going to be that simple to write a book but Colin just seems to have a way with pen and paper.
Shadow of the Witch is book 2 in the Black Witch saga, and I do recommend reading the first volume before getting stuck in. You could pick this up straightaway if you wanted too as Garrow knows how to get just the right amount of detail in for the reader.
The scene is set quickly, it’s dark, eerie and there’s a foreboding atmosphere from the off.
Israel finds the journals of Doctor Winter and quickly he thinks he’s found to way to make a quick bit of money but there’s a dark shadow just waiting to be released and little does he know what he’s stumbles upon.
The journal details the relationship the Doctor had with the Witch.. who was to be hanged..He felt a lot of guilty at the time…why…Someone will want the information surely?
Garrow packs a punch in less than 200 pages that’s for sure. It’s fast flowing and written in such a way it puts you right there.. it’s spinetingling in it’s detail but the pace is spot on!
I’ve really enjoyed the twisted edge to Garrow’s writing style and imagination, there’s a dark humour to it and it feels like one of those tales you’d want to share with young children to stop them visiting a dangerous wood for example.
As with the previous book in the series its disturbingly entertaining and a 5* corker!
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I only accept ARCs to aid timely reviews but this will certainly be adding a paperback to the permanent collection.
To find out more do follow the tour or head to Goodreads and Amazon!
Author Bio –
Colin Garrow grew up in a former mining town in Northumberland. He has worked in a plethora of professions including taxi driver, antiques dealer, drama facilitator, theatre director and fish processor, and has occasionally masqueraded as a pirate.
His short stories have appeared in several literary mags, including SN Review, Flash Fiction Magazine, Word Bohemia, Every Day Fiction, The Grind, A3 Review, 1,000 Words, Inkapture and Scribble Magazine. He currently lives in a humble cottage in Northeast Scotland where he writes novels, stories, poems and the occasional song.
Today is my stop on the blog tour for Raven Lord by JC Duncan!
Here’s the blurb
Mercenary. Exile. Warlord.
At the edge of the world, the clouds of war are gathering…
1034AD
Cast out from the Kyivan Rus, Harald Sigurdsson’s quest for fame and fortune takes him to the far reaches of Europe; the lands of the Eastern Roman empire.
The empire is dying the slow death of decay and corruption. In desperation to fend off a myriad of foes, the emperor turns to the legendary Varangian guard for salvation. These deadly warriors from the far north, famed for their fearsome steel and battle skill, have become the empire’s greatest protectors.
From the golden gate of Constantinople to the holy waters of the river Jordan, Harald will march with the emperor’s finest. Joining their ranks promises him all the gold and glory he can desire, if only he can survive the desperate battles, the hostile land, and the ruthless ambition of a vengeful queen.
The fascinating next book in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada. Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, Bernard Cornwell and Christian Cameron
Review
One of the things I loved about the previous book in the series was the style of the writing . I love history but I always found text books hard to wrap my head around.. I need it presented in a different way and that’s exactly what JC Duncan does..he adds the excitement and makes it come to life, and that buzz is what makes you want to learn more.
Raven Lord picks up after the events of the previous book Warrior Prince and I loved the preface added by the author. There’s a lot to take in when it comes to history so it was great to have a rundown before starting the next instalment, this allows for a quick refresh if you read the previous book but would also allow someone to read this as a standalone as it sets the scene perfectly for new readers.
Harald’s tale is an amazing one but I feel what makes it more amazing is how the author presents it.. we all know Harald must have been a strong and influential man to become the legend he is but it’s the ensemble cast in Raven Lord that brings life to that.. it’s the way his men act.. the awe they have when talking about him, it really makes you understand what kind of man Harald must have been to garner the respect of the men who fought with him.
With any book like this it’s all in the detail..What JC Duncan shows is his time and commitment to that detail.. the setting.. the changing landscape of the world..locations, people, small details like food, clothes.. even down to the lines on their faces… everything is designed to put you right there on the bench next to these men.
I’m a fan of history but what I love about the way it’s presented in such a book like this is the added excitement and I loved reading the historical note where you get down to some real nitty gritty and it was fascinating to learn that Harald’s adventures were even documented in some Byzantine works. I never learnt about the The Byzantine Empire in school.. never even heard of them until I started reading books myself and the more I do the more I’m in awe of them.
I’m not going to spoil the events of the book but what I will say is that sometimes the real interesting bits of history are glossed over.. well that’s how I feel anyway… I never had any Idea Harald’s life spanned so much.. how much that man did in his life… You can really start you understand how imposing this man must have been. Harald is known for 1066.. but there’s so much more to the man.. I had an indifference to the man prior to reading this series… but now I think even I would have followed such a man.. wow.
Plot wise I think Harald clearly steals the show.. it’s his tale but credit really does need to go to the author for bringing events to life, to give the reader something they’ve not had before. Throughout I could help but feel the love the author must have for the subject themselves and the time commitment they must have but it in write such a details tale.
JC Duncan stimulates the readers mind.. opens you up to learning and reminds us how fascinating history is!
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £2.99 It’s too good not too!
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
James has a 5 book historical fiction series ‘The Last Viking’ about the extraordinary life of Harald Hardrada being published with Boldwood books starting with ‘Warrior Prince’. When he isn’t writing or doing his full-time engineering job, James is happiest being an amateur bladesmith, forging knives in the shed he built in his garden.
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Thor’s Revenge by Donovan Cook.
Thor’s Revenge is Book 3 in the awesome Charlemagne’s Cross series.
Here’s the blurb
A kingdom without a crown.
A boy forsaken by his God.
A warrior bent on revenge.
After the bloody Battle of Jelling, Denmark’s throne lies empty and chaos reigns as Jarls jostle for power.
Sven survives the bloodshed only to return home to find Ribe sacked by those he trusted and Charles, a pawn in a much bigger political game, kidnapped.
Consumed by the loss of Charles, Sven is shocked by the arrival of the Abbess Hildegard, daughter of his nemesis King Louis of East Francia, who seeks the whereabouts of Charles, her son, and also the cross of Charlemagne.
But whilst others want revenge for the chaos Sven has caused, Denmark burns and Sven must stand in the shield wall one more time if he is to survive and rescue his grandson.
Outnumbered and outmaneuvered, Sven and Charles must put their fate in the hands of the gods if they ever want to see each other again.
Review
We are back with Charles and Sven the Boar..
Sven returns home after a fierce battle.. you’d think surviving a battle is something to celebrate but not this time… many many many men died and Denmark no longer has a King… this has left bands of disbanded and leaderless warriors ransacking Denmark…
And that’s only part of Sven’s trouble… he learned that his grandson Charles has been taken..Charles is Sven’s redemption in life so his loss breaks the man but at least this time he has people around him to try and knock some sense into him.
His anger soon returns when Abbess Hildegard arrives and pushes him a little too far… there’s a blast from the past that I’ll not spoil but by god I felt the fury pouring of Sven… Abbess Hildegard who we learn is Charles mother so we finally get to learn more about why Charles has been brought up to believe she was dead…I could only imagine how this felt for Charles as he learns the truth about himself.. who he really is.
I really enjoyed that we also learned more about the cross that Charles has been carrying ever since his father’s murder.. Charlemagne’s Cross… of which, if the stories are believed has the power to reunite Francia..
What really makes this instalment shine is the character development, not only do we meet and get to know new characters we see some established characters grow, Thora, Rollo and Sven all have a greater depth added to them while they deal with the aftermath of the battle and Charles kidnap.
Charles’ himself has some very big things to deal with.. being kidnapped… the deaths that have occurred to keep him safe.. it becomes his internal struggle and we see his faith in god shaken…
Plot wise… oh wow… it develops at a fast pace but nothing is really rushed or forced…but by god there’s a lot crammed in and credit to the author that it’s been done in such a well balanced way allowing the reader to keep up the events…and the ending!!! Oh my.. I need more!!
The Charlemagne’s Cross series has quick become a firm favourite!
5/5 stars.
To find out more head to Goodreads or why not buy a copy here?
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £2.99 It’s too good not too!
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
Donovan Cook is the author of the well-received Ormstunga Saga series and the Charlemagne’s Cross series, both of which combine fast-paced narrative with meticulously researched history of the Viking world and are inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology. Donovan was born in South Africa but raised in England.
Today I’m taking part in the blog tour for EXSILIUM by Alison Morton!
Screenshot
Keep reading for a little Q&A too! Alison is a firm favourite on my blog so I quite enjoyed coming up with some questions to see what’s next 😊
Here’s the blurb
Exile – Living death to a Roman
AD 395. In a Christian Roman Empire, the penalty for holding true to the traditional gods is execution.
Maelia Mitela, her dead husband condemned as a pagan traitor, leaving her on the brink of ruin, grieves for her son lost to the Christians and is fearful of committing to another man.
Lucius Apulius, ex-military tribune, faithful to the old gods and fixed on his memories of his wife Julia’s homeland of Noricum, will risk everything to protect his children’s future.
Galla Apulia, loyal to her father and only too aware of not being the desired son, is desperate to escape Rome after the humiliation of betrayal by her feckless husband
For all of them, the only way to survive is exile.
Note: EXSILIUM is the sequel to JULIA PRIMA and the two books make up the Foundation strand in the Roma Nova series.
Review
I’m not sure how Alison Morton manages to, but once again the reader is given another powerful read that builds on the fabulous Roma Nova series.
What hit me straight away was the emotion..from the very first page we explore fate..destiny.. so beautifully written but so heart wrenching.
If you’ve read the rest of the series you’ll know about the strong characters and a very plot driven tale, what Exsilium offers the reader is a bit more history.. the beginnings of this fabulous place the author has envisaged, it builds on the humanity of the time and the characters.
The author tackles very real issues such as religious intolerance within the pollical landscape and while set in a different time period you can’t help but see similarities with the world we live in.. there’s a realness to the characters and their depth just pours off the page but in typical style for the author the overall message is positive.. we all deal with the bad side of the world but we need to keep striving for better.. it might not change our world as we know it but we can create positive changes for future generations…that’s what Roma Nova is for me.. a bastion shining in the dark.
I never like to spoil books but what I can say is Exsilium fits is superbly and builds on what is already a strong and established series. To manage to do this.. wow..Morton continues to do justice to the series and the dream of Roma Nova.
5/5 Stars
My thanks to Alison Morton for an ARC to aid my review, I bought a copy too as always 🙂
To find out more or to grab a copy use the links below! Remember keeping read.. 10 questions with Alison Morton is up next!!
Your newest book, EXSILIUM, is book 11 in your amazing Roma Nova series. Did you always envisage the series having such longevity or has the series just developed as time passed?
Good question! I only wanted to write a book. One book. This became INCEPTIO featuring heroine Carina. Then I realised I wanted to know what happened to my characters and so I wrote PERFIDITAS and SUCCESSIO.
Writing SUCCESSIO, which was definitely going to be the last book – it’s fun, but an exhausting business – I became intensely interested in Carina’s grandmother’s earlier life. What part had she played in the Great Rebellion? What was her relationship with the notorious usurper in Roma Nova’s past? So another book was needed – AURELIA. Of course, I had too much story, so two more books emerged full of the rebellion and resistance – INSURRECTIO and RETALIO. I was chuffed when Conn Iggulden endorsed the former and Doug Jackson and Matthew Harffy the latter.
After that, I couldn’t leave it alone and decided to have a crack at writing a novella so dropped CARINA into the first trilogy to recount an adventure between INCEPTIO and PERFIDITAS and NEXUS into the second trilogy between AURELIA and INSURRECTIO. No longer trilogies, I named the four 21st century thrillers as ‘The Carina strand’ and the second four which take place 1960s to 1980s ‘The Aurelia strand’, all with new covers. Talk about making trouble for myself!
The two historical fiction novels – JULIA PRIMA and EXSILIUM – are all the fault of my fans who wanted to know the full origin story of Roma Nova. But I loved writing them!
EXSILIUM starts with a very emotional charged few scenes, did you find this hard to write? I know I felt overwrought after reading those beautifully written words, but it sets the tone so well, strength flows through.
Yes, I felt completely wrung out when I’d finished writing those scenes. But those events are an intrinsic part of the Roma Nova backstory, even since INCEPTIO, so I had to gather up my grit as Carina would say, and write it.
Where do you see the series going now? Are you tempted to choose a different subject matter for your next book?
I don’t know! I do wonder if readers might want something different. I published a book of short stories a few years ago – the two historical novels are a development of one of them – and I might so the same based on some other unpublished stories. I solved the mystery of the disappearance of Carina’s mother in a short story at the back of the INCEPTIO anniversary hardback edition, so I won’t go there again. I may look at the part the Roma Novans played in the Battle of Vienna in 1683, but the research could be enormous. We’ll see!
Have you started on the next book yet? I feel like you clearly put a lot of yourself into your work so can imagine you must have some half-written plots waiting to be fleshed out?
I’ve written the first chapter of the next Mélisende contemporary thriller in the Doubles series as I haven’t finished with her yet. It’s also good to have a complete change of environment.
Like most writers, I use some of my experiences and knowledge from before writing novels and research what I don’t know. And yes, there are a lot of stories in my head especially from my time in the military, but a number of which I can’t tell anybody about…
Some genres can be quite saturated with male authors, did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
I did experiment with using initials for my first and middle names with the two Roma Nova boxsets, but it made absolutely no impact either way on sales. My readership is about 40% male and 60% female which I count as good, given that the average of book buyers is reckoned to be over 70% female.
The other problem is having to double up on PR and marketing, especially social media. Maintaining Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Threads and BlueSky plus my monthly newsletter is enough for one me.
What do you feel makes a great story?
Good characters, undoubtedly. A strong plot is essential in any thriller, but the characters must drive the story. If the reader doesn’t root for the characters, cry with them and celebrate with them, even the most clever and twisty plot can fall short. Close behind is setting which includes time period as well as physical setting. What’s happening in that world, what’s the weather like? How do people prosper or even survive? Where does the main threat come from in that place and time?
What is your favourite part of being a writer?
When the characters try to take over the story. It’s uncanny. One other is when I hold a print copy, usually a paperback in my hands for the first time. And a third would be talking about the books or writing at an event. I love sharing the Roman and Roma Nova love!
What’s your favourite under-appreciated book?
What a difficult question! This might sound a strange answer, but Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire is much quoted and the title has become a public saying, but how many people have actually read it? Academics, possibly serious fiction writers and really dedicated enthusiasts of the Roman Empire. Yet its impact is massive on how we see that civilisation.
What was the most recent book you’ve read yourself that you would recommend?
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus – clever, witty, trenchant. A milestone study through tragi-comedy of America in the 1950 with an acerbic, hugely engaging and sympathetic protagonist. I adored it.
As hard as this might be… how would you sum up the Roma Nova series for anyone who hasn’t yet delved into the world you’ve created.
Suppose, just suppose, history had gone down a slightly different path. What would a 21st century Europe look like if a tiny part of the Ancient Roman Empire had survived?
Roma Nova is that country and embodies a distinct but modern Roman lifestyle in a country led by women and where honour and courage count. Of course, there are traitors, conspirators and criminals – a truly Roman society!
The Roma Nova heroines serve as Praetorian officers, industry leaders, technologists, inventors and senators, with an imperatrix as their ruler.
But its heroines and heroes face conspiracy, revolution and heartache and must use their wits, courage and a sharp line in dialogue to defend their country against all comers. The latest adventure, EXSILIUM, plunges us back to the late 4th century, to the dawn of the foundation of Roma Nova.
Thank you Alison for taking the time to answer some questions for me 🙂
Bio
Alison Morton writes award-winning thrillers featuring tough but compassionate heroines. Her ten-book Roma Nova series is set in an imaginary European country where a remnant of the Roman Empire has survived into the 21st century and is ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache but use a sharp line in dialogue. The latest, EXSILIUM, plunges us back to the late 4th century, to the very foundation of Roma Nova.
She blends her fascination for Ancient Rome with six years’ military service and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history.
Alison now lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her two contemporary thrillers, Double Identity and Double Pursuit.
Today Is my stop on the blog tour for Conflict and Loyalties by Anna Allen!
Here’s the blurb
FOR THREE YEARS, Gritheim has been torn asunder.
Pestilences ravage the land, and the harvests have failed again, driving up the cost of bread. Emaciated animals are dying. The king becomes less popular each day, and civil war knocks at the palace gates.
The Master is smug.
His immortals recruit nobles and their troops to challenge and depose the king.
Soon, he will be able to step forward and take his rightful place. He needs one more thing—the key to The Book of Realms.
The book will show him how to create spells to help him conquer the land and all its inhabitants.
Two young people thwart his plans.
Even untold riches and immortality won’t tempt them. Leonné, an untrained Elementalist, has married Roland D’Abernon against her will, but Roland hasn’t consummated the marriage yet and, therefore, hasn’t stolen her powers.
Saving her from this atrocity is the knight Fitzsimmons, a great warrior. Rumors suggest his abnormal strength is due to his undeveloped magical powers. The Master must persuade Fitzsimmons to join him or do all he can to destroy him.
This dark fantasy is packed with magic, witchcraft, and swordplay. Become drawn into a world of sorcery in this gripping sequel to Rise of the Immortals.
Review
Conflict and Loyalties is book 2 in The Battle for Gritheim series and picks up where the last book left us. While the flow is great, I’d certainly suggest reading the first book in the series if you haven’t just to understand the character setup.
Fitzsimmons and Leonné’s connection grows as does their powers.. and they are going to need all their skills to defeat the evil forces of The Master.
There’s an influx of new characters which allowed the author the chance to explore scenarios allowing our main two heroes to grow, learn and use those skills.
I particularly liked Fitzsimmons needing to control his emotions.. I won’t spoil why.. but lets just say he’s a different person when he gets angry.
The best thing about the book was the development of the world as you learn more about the kingdoms, who’s who, who supports who.. where strengths and weaknesses lie.. book 1 was all about setting up the characters which is now perfectly balanced with development across the board.
I really enjoyed the growth of Roland too. He’s driven by the desire to become immortal but if he displeases his master then there’s no chance of that happening.
The Master seems to hide in the shadows a lot.. he’s an unknown quantity for the most part but this just added some mystery to everything.. if he’s so strong how long before he makes an appearance?
The author really makes you connect to the characters.. you end up enjoying the good guys.. you hate the bad guys… when a character is frustrated you feel that frustration too!
Overall it’s a great sequel packed to the brim of action and development.. it’s fast paced and goes from 0 to 100 in a blink of an eye. Really fun and enjoyable and perfect for those readers who just want action, action, action.
4/5 Stars.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ zooloosbooktours.co.uk for having me on the tour!
Today might be the last day of the tour but why not check out the other reviews on the stops?
Dawn’s Bio
Dawn Bolton writes romances and crime/romantic suspense under the name of Toni Bolton, fantasy novels under the name of Anna Allen and historical romance/ suspense novels under the name of Alexie Bolton.
Fascinated by history and law she studied both and taught law in higher education. These subjects inspire many of her books.
She lived in a boat while she studied at unviersity and now lives in a pub, she and her husband renovated near the Grand Union Canal with two fluffy Birman vandals. She loves aqua, yoga and Zumba and draws and paints in her spare time.
Her family are psychic and some of their experiences inspired some of her fantasy and paranormal novels. She’s fascinated by the occult and herbal medicine and brings these into her latest dark fantasy novels.
She loves hearing from her readers and getting feedback.
Today is my stop on the blog tour for Sword of Vengeance by Peter Gibbons
Here’s the blurb
In the aftermath of the great battle of Maldon, justice is demanded and vengeance will be served!
992AD
King Aethelred’s the Unready’s army has been defeated at the historic Battle of Maldon by Viking invaders led by Olaf Tryggvason and King Sweyn Forkbeard.
The strategic turning point of the battle was when Godric, an East Saxon Thegn, fled the battlefield taking with him the Saxon army, leaving behind his brothers to be massacred in a welter of blood and Norse axe blades.
Saxon warrior Beornoth emerges from the ashes of defeat with his heart aflame with vengeance and when King Aethelred sends for Beornoth with orders to punish those traitors responsible for the crushing defeat, he heeds the king’s call.
With a small band of loyal warriors, Beornoth embarks on an unforgiving journey across the perilous landscape to seek out Godric and exact his bloody revenge. They must fight their way through a world teeming with political intrigue, shifting alliances and the ever-present threat of the Vikings.
Can Beornoth triumph over insurmountable odds in this pulse pounding quest for retribution
If you enjoyed The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell, you’ll love Beornoth’s Quest for Vengeance!
Review
Following the events of book 3 we pick up in the aftermath of the bloody Battle of Maldon.
Beornoth is in a bad way and Brand must do everything he can to keep him alive.
I felt this was a very poignant and pivotal start to the story as Brand must face loss, the battle was brutal and it plays heavy on the mans heart. It’s moving but also shows the characters strength as he battles on despite the hurt he will be feeling. This depth really made the beginning on the book scream out to me and I felt myself re-reading sentences just to really take in the emotion, to give it justice..just beautifully written guttural strength and determination.
Beornoth survives but it’s touch a go really.. you always hoped he would but nothing lasts forever.
God that man deserves a rest but do you think he’s going to get one? No chance.
We see the true politics of war play out.. it’s time to decide if the fight is to continue or do they sacrifice their pride and pay the enemy to leave their shores…There’s always going to be the danger that they will return even if they do leave.
We continue to see the real depth of emotion infused by the author as we see Beornoth and his wife battle their inner demons.. they have to confront the past, his wife’s pain stems from being brutally assaulted and ended with the death of those closest to them.. it’s a wound that runs deep for both of them and Beornoth can’t see any way to seal the hole the loss has created.
The latest battle really does seem to be a pivotal moment in their relationship as retribution plays on both their minds heavily… but Beornoth is honour bound..can he do what’s needed to please all?
To forge for peace or to fight.. there’s no easy choice but what the author did so well was really set the scene.. the characters.. it’s emotive and you can’t help feel for them and it really does make you see how lucky we are… but what would you do if someone murdered your children.. took the light from your wife’s eyes.. it’s a real emotional roller-coaster.
For the gore fans there’s plenty of action to keep the blood pumping for sure but it’s so much more than you’d expect and the author continues to infuse the historical detail with a gripping, gut-wrenching plot as Beornoth sets out to bring the cowards and traitors from the battle to justice. It really puts the time period into perspective and you really feel for the innocents caught up in the mess..
Pace is something I always like to talk about but this time there’s nothing I can say.. I didn’t even notice the chapter length..the details were a blur as I was so engrossed with the plot itself. A pure joy to read.
Boldwood and Peter Gibbons are a match made in heaven.
5/5 Stars.
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’m buying the book toomy book shelve deserves a copy 🙂
Peter Gibbons is a financial advisor and author of the highly acclaimed Viking Blood and Blade trilogy. He comes to Boldwood with his new Saxon Warrior series, set around the 900 AD Viking invasion during the reign of King Athelred the Unready. The first title of the new series, Warrior and Protector, will be published in October 2022. He originates from Liverpool and now lives with his family in County Kildare.
Today it’s my turn on the blog tour for Rise of the Immortals : The Battle for Gritheim Book 1, by Anna Allen.
Here’s the blub
In a world of rising magic, an unseen battle commences. The Gods of Gritheim release their instruments – for good and evil.
While many scoff at witchcraft and sorcery, Josse and Leonné have witnessed it firsthand. Thrown together by prophesy they must learn to wield their secret magic, to defend not only themselves but the kingdom of mortals. Wraiths, known as Drackarts, do the bidding of Guiscard D’Abernon and his sorceress wife, Orella, but the masters behind these puppets are the ones set on its destruction.
The Immortals of Gritheim are on the rise, seeking ultimate power and control; they care not how many thousands will be slaughtered in their path. Only the Redeemers stand in their way.
Josse and Leonné must overcome their dislike of each other, for their world is at stake.
For fans of thrilling epic fantasy that will keep you turning pages!
Review
The story starts strong as we meet young Josse. His life is currently one of torment at the hands of someone who should protect him… why does this man hate him so?
It quickly becomes clear there’s a hidden past and his protector isn’t the person we might have assumed.
Josse shows his true strength and weathers the storm around him.. determined that one day things will be different.. he must find out who he truly is..but it’s not going to be easy..or pain free.
The day for Josse to escape his torment comes sooner than he expects, and his life is changed forever as he is forced to flee…after a chance meeting with Leonné.
Fast forward some years and these two are set to cross paths again.
The blurb is really what sucked me in.. epic fantasy is something I just love, and Rise of the Immortals didn’t disappoint. It was the perfect setup for the series, introducing the characters and the backstory but at the same time leaving tit bits of info here and there as unknowns.. perfect for twists and turns as the series progresses.
Pace and flow are super important for me, and this offering was perfect. The story flows without any fluff.. the writer has the plot nailed perfectly and the direction of events is clear and easy to follow.
Character, wise I felt the development was natural and didn’t feel forced. There’s just the right amount of backstory to understand motivations and it really helps you get to know the characters well.
Focusing on the fantasy aspect I loved Guiscard D’Abernon and the Drackarts. I particularly liked how the author teased there’s more going on than we currently know, and this just made me super keen to keep reading and eager for more.
For fans of Epic Fantasy there’s plenty for you to get your teeth into. It’s super easy flow wise to follow and there’s just the right amount of teasing… there’s energy building and you just know there’s good things to come.
Rise of the Immortals lays strong foundations and I’m super excited to see where this goes. I’m keen to learn more about the world the characters live in and excited to see them develop.
4/5 Stars
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ zooloosbooktours.co.uk for having me on the tour!
Today might be the last day of the tour but why not check out the other reviews on the stops?
Dawn’s Bio
Dawn Bolton writes romances and crime/romantic suspense under the name of Toni Bolton, fantasy novels under the name of Anna Allen and historical romance/ suspense novels under the name of Alexie Bolton.
Fascinated by history and law she studied both and taught law in higher education. These subjects inspire many of her books.
She lived in a boat while she studied at unviersity and now lives in a pub, she and her husband renovated near the Grand Union Canal with two fluffy Birman vandals. She loves aqua, yoga and Zumba and draws and paints in her spare time.
Her family are psychic and some of their experiences inspired some of her fantasy and paranormal novels. She’s fascinated by the occult and herbal medicine and brings these into her latest dark fantasy novels.
She loves hearing from her readers and getting feedback.
Today is my turn on the blog tour for The Hollow Husband by Cole Baxter
Here’s the blurb
Stella has finally met her dream man. But is David too good to be true?
Stella Greene has finally met her dream man. David is wealthy, successful, polished, and seductive. He’s got her back when an angry ex comes to call. He shares her taste in everything from wine to music. Her parents love him.
The couple are thrilled when Stella falls pregnant. David has always been attentive, but now that Stella is carrying his child, he becomes downright controlling. He claims he’s only worried about her and the baby. But Stella becomes fearful. How well does she really know her husband?
Meanwhile, there’s a serial killer loose in their small resort town, murdering young, attractive men. A fan of true crime stories, Stella takes a keen interest in the killings and soon finds herself drawn into a darker world than she ever imagined.
When men linked to Stella are the next victims, she begins to fear that someone close to her might be the killer. Could it be her beloved husband?
Her doubts only grow when she sees a sketch of the killer. He looks a lot like David.
Shocked and disbelieving, she hides her fears from David. As she goes hunting for the truth, she begins to suspect David more and more. Will Stella’s worst fears be realized? Is she married to a serial killer and carrying his child?
The Hollow Husband – the gripping psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, and K L Slater.
Review
Stella has the man of her dreams on her arm.. but it’s been a whirlwind marriage.. David give her everything she could want but there’s something behind those eyes..how well does Stella really know him? Or is she just being paranoid?
When Stella falls pregnant it’s the best news ever.. until David becomes controlling and demanding..but is Stella just being a little harsh? Does David not just have her best interest at heart?
If that wasn’t enough to deal with a body soon shows up and Stella uses her connections and gets involved where she shouldn’t be.. Stella and her dad love a good crime mystery to solve so she wheedles her way in.. little does she know at the time but there’s a serial killer on the loose.. when that becomes clear she feels it’s her duty to help the police stop the killer.
Meanwhile she’s also digging into the husbands past.. there’s a hidden secret but Stella doesn’t have time to concentrate on that as the bodies keep piling up.. and these murders are gruesome.
As the plot progresses secrets and twists are abundant as we learn Stella, for one reason or another may be connected to the victims.. but who is the killer.. and what’s the motive?
Development wise I liked the plot, it was clear, well paced, and the twists kept me engaged. I particularly enjoyed the development of David who was by far the most intriguing character. I would have loved to see a bit more from him to be honest.
Focusing on Stella.. I didn’t love her.. she’s a dog with a bone and doesn’t seem to respect the law and things are just a little convenient for her at times.. who gets that much access to a crime scene after all? But lets be fair.. I think quite a few of us would love to get the kind of access she does..
What I really enjoyed was the murders themselves, they are dark and grisly and when you match this to the development of the characters it’s clear what the author wants you to think.. but you are taken on a ride with twists, kept wondering if you are judging characters too harshly just like Stella does, so in the end I was compelled to finish the tale.. I just HAD to know who the killer was and why?
An interesting and intriguing story which shows a lot of promise for future books from the author.
4/5 Stars
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ zooloosbooktours.co.uk for having me on the tour!
Today we kick off the blog tour for Atoned: The Wardens: Book 1 by Steve J McHugh.
Here’s the blurb
Civil War tore across the Union Empire, leaving countless dead in its wake. It was a war started by one man, once beloved by the Empire. His betrayal still lingers in the memory of those who lived through it. Decades later, his son, Felix Drake, is a Warden tasked with both protecting the ruling members of the Union Empire and its Council, and bringing those powerful and influential people to justice should they break the law. Drake protects the very Empire his father sought to destroy. When two members of a Council family are murdered, Drake and his team investigate, only to uncover corruption, resentment, and yet more death. As the case deepens, Drake is forced back into a life he’d left long ago, bringing with it the same disdain and anger from the very people he’s sworn to protect. However, he’s no longer a helpless child, and the people who try to intimidate him now are about to discover that Drake is so very much his father’s son.
Review
What a cracking start to a series! The book starts strong as we are quickly introduced to the two main characters.. it’s a typical good versus bad yeh? Oh you are so wrong.. there’s so much more depth to this tale.
Many years ago there was a civil war… a civil war that nearly tore the world apart.. fast forward and we meet Felix Drake, a Warden.. tasked with protecting those his father tried to kill during the war.. he betrayed those Felix now protects..Felix wants nothing more than to forget the past.. he knows if anyone finds out who he actually is then he life will change drastically.. no one would trust the son of a traitor after all!
He’s remained hidden for a while but it’s time to return to the place he once called home.. his friends have been murdered but why?.. as soon as he arrives all hell breaks loose..
Felix knows Sabas Gossard has something to do with this but he needs to prove it.. Sabas was put in prison by Felix so how the hell is he already free? Yeh that’s right.. corruption..
It’s no surprise to me that there’s deceit from those in power but just who the players are shocks Felix..surely not? Plus there’s someone working in the shadows.. will we find out who is orchestrating these events? And what’s the endgame?
There’s lots of different characters and roles but everything is introduced nicely for the reader to take in, and the attention given to the development really helped this stroy come alive.
I particularly like Bokk, Felix’s security synth.. Bokk once belonged to his father, and I felt Bokk played a pivotal role which I hope gets expanded upon as there’s the interesting idea of these synth developing personalities.
The plot of the book develops at a swift but nice pace and hints there’s some good things to come. As setups go Atoned has it all, great characters and so much potential clear and ready to pour out.
There’s hints of past events becoming a focus.. were the events that played out during the war exactly as they seem? Or was there more to it? And what does this mean for Drake? He’s got his own sage abilities coming out.. but he seems special..and I’m excited to find out why!
This is my first foray into the authors imagination, and I was wonderfully impressed with the flow and development.
5/5 Stars
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ zooloosbooktours.co.uk for having me on the tour!
Why not follow the tour?
Author’s Bio
Steve is a bestselling author of Urban Fantasy and Science Fiction books. His novel, Scorched Shadows, was shortlisted for a Gemmell Award for best novel. He was born in Mexborough, South Yorkshire, but now lives with his wife and three young daughters in Southampton.
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Warrior Prince by J. C. Duncan.
Here’s the blurb.
Prince. Mercenary. Exile.
The lost throne of Norway must be won in foreign lands.
1030 AD
Some men are gifted a crown. Others have to fight to claim it.
Exiled from Norway, Harald Sigurdsson, brother to murdered King Olaf, must battle mercilessly for survival in the lands of the Kievan Rus.
His brother’s legacy gifts him a warband of hardened warriors and entry to the court of Prince Yaroslav the Wise. By his wits, sword and skill in battle, Harald must learn not just to survive but to triumph.
He fights for glory, for fame, and to regain his family’s battle-stolen throne. But his greatest challenge may not come from battlefield foes but from those who stand by his side.
The first instalment in a remarkable story of an exiled boy’s incredible journey to become Harald Hardrada; The Hard Ruler and The Last Viking.
Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, Bernard Cornwell and Christian Cameron
Review
With a tag line like “Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons” I immediately took notice.. these writers are my bread and butter.. they get what their readers love and give them it in spades full.. Did I have high expectations? Yep.
Firstly what I loved about this book from the start is that it felt fresh and new.. historical fiction is a well read genre for me but to see Harald Hardrada before he became the man most of know was fascinating!
After King Olaf dies in battle, Harold and Olaf’s other men are forced into exile or face death. It’s not much of a choice but being so downcast after their defeat means it’s even harder going. These men..they have lost everything.. but Harold also has the unenviable task of learning his role with the men and has to grow fast.
The depth of Harold was without fault..you see him struggle.. and adapt with the sheer strength he has within.. determination runs in his veins. I also loved that things didn’t come easy for him. Warriors look for leaders.. but it never felt like that was Harold’s role take on things..he doesn’t just want to become a leader.. he earns it.. he’s just got the passion burning that drives him forward and it’s this that the warriors ultimately see within him.
As is typical of the genre there’s plenty of battles but what sets Warrior Prince apart is the sheer amount of little details.. you can see how much research has went into the story to depict the characters, the period and the battles.
For fans for the genre I’m in no doubt you’ll love this and if I had to some up in one word it’s “depth”. Almost everything I’ve read about Harold has been fascinating but can’t touch upon the depth and intensity that’s been added by J. C. Duncan!
I was hooked and can’t wait to see what happens next in the series, I loved the connections Harold made with the men so excited to see how this grows.
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £1.99 It’s a bargain!
Author Bio –
J. C. Duncan is a well-reviewed historical fiction author and amateur bladesmith, with a passion for Vikings.
David's Book Blurg 