Category Archives: Blog Tours

BLOG TOUR – King of Kings by MJ Porter

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for King of Kings by MJ Porter!

Here’s the blurb

In the battle for power, there can be only one ruler.

AD925

Athelstan is the king of the English, uniting the petty kingdoms of Wessex, Mercia, the Danish-held Five Boroughs and York following the sudden death of his father, King Edward.

His vision is to unite the realms of the Scots and the Welsh in a peace accord that will protect their borders from the marauding threat of the Norse Vikings.

Whilst seemingly craving peace and demanding loyalty with an imperium over every kingdom, Athelstan could dream of a much bigger prize.

But danger and betrayal surround his best intentions, namely from his overlooked stepbrother, Edwin, who conspires and vies for what he deems is his rightful place as England’s king.

As ever, powerful men who wish to rule do not wish to be ruled, and Constantin of the Scots, Owain of Strathclyde, and Ealdred of Bamburgh plot their revenge against the upstart English king, using any means necessary.

An epic story of kingsmanship that will set in motion the pivotal, bloody Battle of Brunanburh where allies have to be chosen wisely…

Review

King of Kings revolves around the Battle of Brunanburh and the events that lead to this epic battle.

Athelstan is King of the English but not everyone is happy with the uniting of the kingdoms.

The King of the English has designs to grow his kingdom but mostly he’s looking to the future, in the short term he knows peace is the only solution but if we know anything about Kings and Queens of the past is that it’s a treacherous position to hold, not only do you have threats from outside of your kingdom but you have to watch your back too.. family doesn’t mean what it should to some.. and families can be quite complicated at times.

MJ Porter wonderfully weaves the tale with changing perspectives, exploring the motivations and inner thoughts of some of the most powerful and influential people at the time. I found this amazing to read, I know we may not really know someone’s thoughts but the changing perspective really gave life and depth to each of the characters. I particularly loved that I felt the author managed to put some of their own writing style into the tale, little moments when you can tell they had fun writing the scene.. don’t get me wrong.. textbooks are brilliant for facts but sometimes  you need a little something extra to bring events and characters to life and a tale such as this gives you that.. it makes me want to learn more and in particularly keen to learn more about the Welsh Kings. I can’t say I now much about the period but King of Kings gives me exactly what I need, historical fiction that excites.. sparks the desire to learn more.

The book has a large ensemble of characters, and the story covers a wide period, so I’d definitely say give yourself the time to really immerse yourself in the book. The short chapters certainly helped me to retain the information and ensured the flow of the tale went well. It’s a pretty perfect book to get lost in for a few hours.

Overall a really enjoyable read, I particularly liked exploring the different characters and their motivations, each wanting to ensure their safety but at the same time ready to attack if the time is right. It’s all about the build up baby..you are just wanting to see who will step over the line first!

4/5 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 too

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon.

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. They were raised in the shadow of a building that they believed housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia – so their writing destiny was set. The first novel in their new Anglo-Saxon series for Boldwood Son of Mercia was published in February 2022.

Social Media Links –  

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/coloursofunison

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

Newsletter Sign Up: https://www.mjporterauthor.com/

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-porter

BLOG TOUR – Blood on the Tyne: Red Snow

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Today we kick off the blog tour for Blood on the Tyne: Red Snow (book 3 in the Rosie Robson series) by Colin Garrow

Here’s the blurb.

A dead body. A hoard of forged banknotes. A gangster out for blood.

Newcastle, December 1955. Returning home after a weekend away, singer and amateur sleuth Rosie Robson discovers a man lying on a baggage trolley with his throat cut. After the police get involved, an attack on Rosie and her boss prompts Inspector Vic Walton to find a safe house for the pair. But the bad guys seem to be one step ahead of them and Rosie is forced to track down a possible witness to the murder in a bid to learn the truth. Can the canny crooner solve the mystery before a Newcastle gang boss catches up with her? 

Set on Tyneside, Blood on the Tyne: Red Snow is book #3 in the Rosie Robson Murder Mysteries series.

Review

Rosie and her friend return to Newcastle after a weekend away only to discover a body in a baggage trolley. Inspector Vic Walton is soon on the case. The victim had their throat cut..

There’s not a lot of evidence but with Rosie’s help Vic soon has a suspect.. the issue is someone is following Rosie.. and she’s doesn’t know why.

The case heats up as Rosie is followed, accosted and attacked… Rosie seeks shelter among friends only to drag those very individuals into the danger and even a safe house isn’t safe..

How do these people keep finding Roaie? And why do they want her? She doesn’t know anything… or does she?

I’ll admit I haven’t yet read the other books in the series so was worried I may not understand some of the context but I need not have worried. There’s clearly a backstory to some of the characters but the author nicely gives you titbits of information allowing you to understand their motivations and the events that previously played out.

There’s some really good twists to the tale.. I love and hate to say this but I demolished this in 1 day.. it was just an exciting read from the 1st page to last.

As a proud northerner myself I really loved the descriptions of my local area and the detail added, it easily allowed me to envisage Rosie’s journey in my mind and that added an extra dimension to the tale!

Blood on the Tyne: Red Snow ticked all of the boxes for me, there’s mystery, suspense, blood and twists to name but a few prime pieces I look for.. but the main thing I loved about the book was the character depth, their induvial personas and traits, each were fun to read and I felt myself reading each character myself in a different voice, they became real.

Very interesting plot with superb writing. I’ve read a couple of the authors other works and I love his writing style.. maybe it’s a northern thing ha ha.

If you asked me why I haven’t read the previous books in the series I’ll be perfectly honest.. there’s too much choice out there and sometimes you don’t know stories exist.. now I do I’ll be making up for lost time.

An effortlessly riveting and engaging 5* read!

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 too and in addition I’ll be grabbing the first two books in the series 😊

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio:

True-born Geordie Colin Garrow grew up in a former mining town in Northumberland and has worked in a plethora of professions including taxi driver, antiques dealer, drama facilitator, theatre director and fish processor. He has also occasionally masqueraded as a pirate. Colin’s published books include the Watson Letters series, the Terry Bell Mysteries and the Rosie Robson Murder Mysteries. His short stories have appeared in several literary mags, including: SN Review, Flash Fiction Magazine, The Grind, A3 Review, Inkapture and Scribble Magazine. These days he lives in a humble cottage in Northeast Scotland.

Social Media Links –

Website (Adults) https://colingarrow.org/

Website (Children) https://colingarrowbooks.com/

Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.co.uk/-/e/B014Z5DZD4

Twitter https://twitter.com/colingarrow

Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/colingarrow

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

Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/colin-garrow

BLOG TOUR – Warrior of Mercia by MJ Porter! (The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles Book 3)

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Today I’m kicking off the blog tour for Warrior of Mercia by MJ Porter! (The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles Book 3)

It gets better as it’s only just been released today!!! Congratulations to MJ Porter on a cracking new release!

Here’s the blurb

Icel is a lone wolf no more.

Oath sworn to Wiglaf, King of Mercia and acknowledged as a member of Ealdorman Ælfstan’s warrior band, Icel
continues to forge his own destiny on the path to becoming the Warrior of Mercia.

With King Ecgberht of Wessex defeated and Londonium back under Mercian control, the Wessex invasion of Mercia is over.

But the Wessex king was never Mercia’s only enemy. An unknown danger lurks in the form of merciless Viking raiders, who set their sights on infiltrating the waterways of the traitorous breakaway kingdom of the East Angles, within touching distance of Mercia’s eastern borders.

Icel must journey to the kingdom of the East Angles and unite against a common enemy to ensure Mercia’s hard-won freedom prevails.

Review

Firstly.. WOW..

Secondly… WOW..

We are back with Icel but don’t worry if you are not familiar with the series as the author does a nice little recap of events but in such a subtle way, for new readers it will give you the backdrop to Icel’s life to present, for the readers who have been with him from the start it’s a nice refresher and really gets you in the right zone, and puts you right back into the moment so you already feel those emotions brought on by the previous books again.

It’s only been a few months really since all this craziness started and in that time Icel has lost a lot, including his uncle. Friendships have become strained and he’s struggling to find his feet as a warrior. It doesn’t help that the King has singled him out for favour.. this doesn’t go down well with some!

What MJ Porter manages to do so well is setting the scene.. the emotions..the smell.. it feels like you are right there with Icel, you can smell his sweat and feel his heart pumping.

The Wessex King has run for his life but Mercia isn’t safe yet. The Viking’s are inbound and they could be an even bigger threat than Wessex.. but with so many men dead from the previously hard won battle how will King Wiglaf protect his people and repel these forces?

I keep saying it in my reviews but one thing I need to hit that 5* is character development, if characters go stale or seem out of place it just spoils the flow of my reading but there’s never any worry when reading anything by MJ Porter.

The plot is so expertly woven with character development, and you see each character grow as the page turns and I loved seeing characters like Cuthred with his own story arc. It was also great to see Brute and Wine back.. Icel’s trusty steeds, they don’t say anything obviously but their actions are louder than words and Brute especially brings a massive smile to my face.

Icel’s development is at the forefront and the author did a brilliant job showing the internal battle he faces each day, he trained to be a healer, now he’s a warrior, so many faces of those crush beneath feet, or with ghastly wounds.. he’s torn.. he could have saved some of these men.. and did… only to have them return to the fight and die. There’s a real depth to the character that can’t be beaten!

I’m never one to give spoilers but you can tell from the synopsis there’s going to be some battles.. blood and guts and it was beautifully brutal in detail and merged perfectly with Icel’s development, his feelings, his history… His uncle is never far from his thoughts and there’s clearly a hidden secret..but what? And why does the new Queen hate him so much? All will be revealed…. Or will it? Ha.

A wonderous 3rd instalment packed full or excitement, I’ve got the kindle version but can’t wait to grab hold of a paperback too!

5/5*

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon.

My thanks go to the author, the publisher, and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book as part of the tour but like I say.. this will be added to my paperback collection as soon as possible! This is one of the reasons I review.. Just to get in there early to read the book knowing I’m going to be buying a copy anyway 😊

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. They were raised in the shadow of a building that they believed housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia – so their writing destiny was set. The first novel in their new Anglo-Saxon series for Boldwood Son of Mercia was published in February 2022.

Social Media Links

Twitter https://twitter.com/coloursofunison

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

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews 

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-porter

BLOG TOUR – David’s Bathtime Adventure by Sue Wickstead

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Today we kick off the blog tour for David’s Bathtime Adventure by Sue Wickstead! Oh… and keep reading if you’d like to enter a little giveaway for a chance to win a Double-Decker Playbus colouring book with a 3D model for Daisy Daydream Bus!

Here’s the blurb

David loves his bath time!

As Mum fills the bath with water, David get himself ready for a swimming adventure.

With toys and his fishing gear, he certainly enjoys splashing around in the water.

(And making a mess!)

Where will his imagination take him?

Review.

This is my second adventure with the wonderfully named David.. I mean how could I not jump on the blog tour with such a strong name as David ha ha.

In David’s latest adventure it’s bath time! David once again uses that wonderful imagination of his to have a wonderful time.

Not every child loves bathtime so as a parent I found this a fun little book that may help children relax a little as she what fun they can have in the bath. I remember as a child you could get me out of the bath, I used to spend hours with my turtle figures and my daughter Georgia takes after daddy with a bunch of dinosaurs next to the bath.. these actually live next to daddy’s battleships but enough about that ha ha.

When asked what they liked about the book there was two things that stood out, they particularly liked the illustrations, especially when David uses his imagination, with the toys in a chest becoming the treasure he found.

They also really enjoyed the story itself and how David makes his own fun from any situation.  It’s fun, enjoyable and packed with energy!

My two are now eight and this book was perfect for them, length is perfect but it’s aimed so well that I could read it too them but also have them read it to me as part of their learning and reading at home

Sue Wickstead is now a firm favourite in our house with a wonderfully enjoyable tales of adventure and I’m excited to see what’s next!

5/5 Stars.

To find out more or to grab a copy why not head over to Amazon! or any other good retailor 🙂

My thanks go to the author, the publisher, NetGalley, and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book so my kids could take part and they loved it. If you follow me on Instagram you can even see a picture of Georgia reading the book as soon as she got home from school 🙂

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

A work of the heart.

I am a Supply teacher working across Sussex and Surrey.

For over 20 years, alongside my teaching career, I worked with a Children’s Charity, a Playbus, which led me to write a photographic history book about it. (Bewbush Playbus.)

I have been telling stories about the bus which led me to writing the fictional tale.

‘Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus’, came out in print in 2014.

The story has led to other children’s stories.

‘David’s Bathtime Adventure’, as well as my last book ‘David’s bin Day’, is a story about my comical little brother growing up and the games he liked to play.

There are more stories written and on their way. (All of my stories do have a bus in them somewhere.)

In my role as visiting Supply Teacher, I am able to share my stories.

I have also undertaken author visits both in schools as well as online, visited libraries for story time and events on request.

I have also used many of my books as a starting point for online learning with EYFSHome – providing ideas to support the books. (Both of the David stories were told as part of this which led to the writing of the books.)

Social Media Links – 

Website :- https://suewickstead.co.uk/davids-bin-day

Amazon.co.uk – http://bit.ly/JJKSupersonic

Amazon.com – http://amzn.to/2BxvU2l

Waterstones http://bit.ly/2wytDz5Waterstones

WHSmith http://bit.ly/2TtCr2I

Foyles – http://bit.ly/315DESrFoylesbooks

Barnes & Noble – http://bit.ly/2IgCKKjBandN

Book depository http://bit.ly/2Ax6VcZ

Now for the exciting part!!! The giveaway to Win a Double-Decker Playbus colouring book with a 3D model for Daisy Daydream Bus (Open to UK Only)

For a chance to win head over to Rafflecopter . If you’ve been to Rafflecopter before you’ll know how easy this is to enter 🙂 There’s multiple ways to earn an entry so why not give it a go!!

*Terms and Conditions –UK entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

BLOG TOUR – The App by Stuart James

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for The App by Stuart James!

Here’s the blurb.

The App…

Once you’re in, they’ll never let you leave.

Whatever happens, don’t download The App.

* It will come in the form of a link. Maybe in your DM’s on a social media account, the junk folder of your emails or a WhatsApp message from a friend.

* You’ll be enticed by the chance of winning one hundred thousand pounds on offer every Friday, wired straight into the winner’s bank account.

* It’s not a joke.

* This part is genuine.

* Someone can and will win the money.

* But at what cost?

Marty Benson gets the link sent to him by a friend. So what is the harm in looking?
He clicks it, downloads the app and enters a few basic details.
A message prompts him to wait while he’s loaded onto the system.
An hour later, another message.

• Do not delete the app.

• Do not tell anyone outside of your family about the app.

• Send the link to one person who is close to you.

* Do not throw your phone away.

* Always narrate while streaming.

• If you break any of the rules, we’ll kill a member of your family. Then we’ll kill you.

Marty is sent a picture of his wife, who is shopping with her mother in Oxford Street.

As Marty struggles to breathe, he clicks the links and watches the most recent streams, realising what happens within the
app.

Every Friday morning, a person is randomly picked from social media.

They now have a bounty on their head—a death warrant. But they don’t know it.

Their profile appears on the app’s main page; all their details are displayed.

Every app member must play the game at least once a month or face the consequences.

Kill the person randomly selected from social media.

Win one hundred thousand pounds.

As Marty watches the terror unfold and everyone streaming the hunt within the app, he realises he has to do something.

But how do you stop a murder, when everyone could be the killer?

Review

The vast majority of us will own a phone, a vast majority of us would happily download an app based on a friends recommendation.. but what if that link they have sent is dangerous? Many of us will have downloaded a virus at some point but in comparison.. This App… it’s life or death!

Marty downloads the app, it’s been sent to him by his best friend Davey..but the sinister side of the app shows quickly when a picture of his family is sent to his phone with list of instructions. He can’t delete the app.. they will know.. he can’t ignore the app either as he soon learns what happens to those who don’t play by the rules.

While Marty tries to get to grips with the situation he’s faced with we learn of the learn of the app creator and his own twisted mind.

We also get to know what it feels like to be one of the hunted!

I loved how the author switched perspectives, you see things through the eyes of the creator, the hunter and the hunted! This led to an easy flowing and exciting tale that grips you..it’s like the author keeps teasing you.. you have to know what happens next.. like the app.. you can’t ignore it..can’t look away..

The App is all about the tension..the creepiness of those involved with the app so the characters themselves while good were not my main focus.. It was all about the app and the creator’s lust for torment and death that had me hooked, the character has more depth than the others and I would have loved more time to see him develop further as he’s just so wonderfully twisted. Even though you should despise him.. there’s something that draws you to him and his life is what really makes the book pop!

Overall a fun read that explores how technology can be misused and the depths some people will go to survive… as well as the depths some will sink to in order to fulfil their perverted desires!

A 4* easily from me,

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon!

My thanks go to the author and ZooloosBookTours for having me on the tour and for providing me a copy of the book to aid my review!

Why not check out the other stops on the tour for more?

Author Bio

I have always loved scary stories, especially ones that shocked me, left me terrified, looking under my bed or in the wardrobe before going to sleep.

There was just a fantastic buzz whenever I watched or read something that took my breathe away.

I remember going to my nan’s house in Ireland as a youngster with my mother and sister, on the West Coast, staying in a cottage, surrounded by miles of fields and my family sitting around the table in the kitchen at night telling ghost stories. Going out and exploring derelict farmhouses in the middle of nowhere. I remember clearly the field at the end of the road was supposed to be haunted by headless nuns. My cousins often remind me of the great times we had, frightening each other and running for our lives whenever we’d see something that didn’t look right.

This is why I love nothing more than to tell a story.

I’m so grateful when people not only read my thrillers but also take the time to get in touch and leave a review. To me, that is the greatest feeling, hearing from people that have enjoyed my work. I know then that I’m doing something right.

I’m 49, married and have two beautiful children. Currently, I’m a full-time plumber but would love nothing more than to make a living from my writing. I hope I write stories and people continue to enjoy them for years to come. That would be completely amazing and a dream come true.


Follow him at:


Twitter: https://twitter.com/StuartJames73

Website: https://www.stuartjamesthrillers.com/

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

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

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

BLOG TOUR – Lilac Skies by Shivani Bansal

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for Lilac Skies by Shivani Bansal

Here’s the blurb.

Punjab, India. It’s 1942 and Meena is still a girl when her parents tell her she is to be married, in five days, to a total stranger. What’s more, he lives in Kenya. A different country, a different continent, thousands of miles away from everything she knows. She doesn’t want to marry, but with four brothers and sisters, Meena knows she will be a burden to her parents if she stays. And it isn’t her decision to make.

Nairobi, Kenya. Meena’s new home is beyond anything she could have imagined. Nairobi is beautiful, but tensions under the colonial British rule run high. She is told she is lucky because her husband Amar is young and handsome, but all is not as it seems within her marriage… Tucked away from the outside world, Meena spends her time by the mango tree dreaming of going home… until she realises the friendships that she forges here are all she can hold onto.

Going from girl to woman in a strange land, can Meena find a way to finally make her life her own?

Review

Not the typical book I’d pick up but something about the blurb just sucked me in.

Meena is a happy young woman living in India with her family, unfortunately times are tough and with many mouths to feed her parents make the decision for her, that she should marry.

Amar shows interest in the marriage and dowry agreed so in 5 days they will be man and wife. This is real emotional struggle for Meena as not only does she not know the man but he’s also from Kenya so this marriage will mean moving to another country.

At first things look ok, maybe just a little shaky as Meena is very home sick. This is made so much worse as Amar’s mother lives with them and treats her son like butter wouldn’t melt, he’s the golden boy. This means no one would be good enough for her boy and she constantly undermines Meena. It doesn’t help that Meena hasn’t learnt the skills to cook. She’s essentially a slave.

There’s a ray of hope for Meena when Amar’s sister arrives and they soon form a friendship but nothing can save her from Amar’s darkside which ultimately leads to some very tragic events.

The story moves at a decent pace and Meena ends up in the UK but it’s not going to be the dream life, and the events that happen ensure Amar’s darkside comes out time and time again.. he promises to change.. but they always say that..

Meena’s only happy times is with her children or the friend she makes, Kanika. Kanika understands Meena’s pain more than most and ultimately is the one who keeps Meena going, they support each other.

Lilac Skies is a beautiful but harrowing disturbing tale that touches on many difficult subjects, arranged marriages, miscarriage, domestic abuse… you’d think with such subjects the book would be a difficult read but I found it the opposite, it was so beautifully written it flowed and you just got invested, knowing Meena would find the strength to keep going.

While reading I can honestly admit the story flowed so well I described it as poetry so it was wonderful to read towards the end of the tale that Meena takes up poetry.. it just felt like the character really did write her own story.

Hauntingly beautiful, beautifully written, a story that will really stay with you.

5/5 Stars

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book as part of the tour but I’ve already bought a copy myself too!

Why not following the tour?

Author Bio –

Shivani Bansal has a First Class degree in International Relations and Politics, which has yet to be put to use! She works full time in digital marketing in the charity sector, and also runs a small baking business from home called Sweet Beginnings Bakes. She loves writing story ideas in her Pusheen notebook in her spare time.

Social Media Links –

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shivanib_writer

BLOG TOUR – The Empire by Michael Ball!

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for The Empire by Michael Ball!

Here’s the blurb

Welcome to The Empire theatre

1922. When Jack Treadwell arrives at The Empire, in the middle of a rehearsal, he is instantly mesmerised. But amid the glitz and glamour, he soon learns that the true magic of the theatre lies in its cast of characters – both on stage and behind the scenes.

There’s stunning starlet Stella Stanmore and Hollywood heartthrob Lancelot Drake; and Ruby Rowntree, who keeps the music playing, while Lady Lillian Lassiter, theatre owner and former showgirl, is determined to take on a bigger role. And then there’s cool, competent Grace Hawkins, without whom the show would never go on . . . could she be the leading lady Jack is looking for?

When long-held rivalries threaten The Empire’s future, tensions rise along with the curtain. There is treachery at the heart of the company and a shocking secret waiting in the wings. Can Jack discover the truth before it’s too late, and the theatre he loves goes dark?

Musical theatre legend Michael Ball brings his trademark warmth, wit and glamour to this, his debut novel.

Enjoy the show!

Review.

I can honestly say I was drawn to this book..the cover! Amazing, The synopsis! Intriguing… and it’s written by Michael Ball! You’ll probably be thinking the same as me… he’s a singer… clearly a man of many talents.

We follow Jack Treadwell as he arrives at The Empire. Jack’s a former solider and after his return has struggled to find a place to really call home. His mam and dad have both died but a last note from his mother sends him on a journey of discovery.

Jacks’ quick and smart and soon has a job at The Empire but suddenly no acts want to play The Empire any longer.. but why? It soon becomes clear.. a rival theatre owner has them blacklisted!

Jack along with Grace Hawkins come up with a few ideas to save the struggling Empire and you can see the bond between them grow.

Things start to look a bit better for the theatre but how long can they go on.. they are still blacklisted… BOOM.. it’s time to write a new play and to find the stars themselves! They can do this!

Everyone pulls out all the stops to create a wonderful play.. but will it save the theatre?

There’s so much more to this tale then that though..and it’s not all romance either. There’s lies, deception, love, tears, joy, friendships…  

The mix of characters, pace, plot and connections were superb. Nothing overshadows anything, each character supports the story perfectly and leave an impression on you, it’s more than just glitz and glamour.. the author did a fantastic job of developing the characters, it’s a big cast so I’m impressed just how detailed the characters and sub plots were.   

I know the book has been labelled as a historical romance novel but that barely scratched the surface.. it’s a wonderous 5* adventure of friendship and hope!

To find out more head to Amazon or Goodreads (Or any other good local retailor 🙂 )

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book as part of the tour but I’ll be adding this to my purchased collection too.

Why not following the tour?

Author Bio –

Michael Ball OBE is a singer, actor, presenter and now author. He’s been a star of musical theatre for over three decades, winning the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical twice, he’s also won two BRIT awards and been nominated for a Grammy. Michael regularly sells out both his solo tours and his Ball & Boe shows with Alfie Boe and has multiple platinum albums. The Empire is his first novel.

Social Media Links – Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrmichaelball/   //  https://twitter.com/ZaffreBooks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrmichaelball/?hl=en // https://www.instagram.com/zaffrebooks/

BLOG TOUR – Bodies, Brains & Bogies by Paul Ian Ross

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for Bodies, Brains & Bogies by Paul Ian Cross.

Here’s the blurb.

This fantastic title from Paul Ian Cross, the writer of How to Vanquish a Virus, takes the reader on a whirlwind tour of everything that’s disgusting, unusual and amazing about the human body. Find out everything about poo, pus and bogies, while learning a whole lot about how our bodies work hard in hundreds of fascinating ways to keep us alive.

With tons of hilarious and informative illustrations, it includes lashings of Paul Ian Cross’s trademark laugh-out-loud humour, in-depth knowledge and infectious optimism. It’s the perfect funny, accessible way to discover everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the human body, but were too grossed-out to ask!

Review

With a cover like this not only were my kids interested they had me hooked in too. It’s funny and gross so perfect for kids… and big kids.

For me what I loved was the way the book was written, it flowed well with lots of detail added but presented in a fun and eye-catching way. My girls are only 8 but you could see the cogs in their brains turning as bits of information sparked a question. A lot of which was answered in the book but boy did it make them think.

I also feel books like this are perfect as you don’t need to read it from start to finish, you can pick and choose if you like, or easily revisit without it effecting the flow. We started together from the beginning but then jumped around a little when the girls decided what they wanted to learn about next.

When asked what the girls enjoyed about the book, it was no surprise they found the illustrations hilarious and gross at the same time. They also enjoyed the questions posed throughout the book. It particularly blew their little minds to learn the skin is the largest human organ.  Georgia was certain it would have been those wriggly things inside you.. “Intestines” ha.

The book is grossly fun, it’s witty and educational but also effortlessly makes the reader understand we are all different, and why, so not to worry about it. Image is very important to children these days so anything we can do to try and remind them it’s ok to be different then I’m all for it .

I’m 37 and even I learnt something from this book. It’s difficult to capture a child’s imagination but Bodies, Brains & Bogies certainly does that!!

A 5* from me… the girls don’t believe in conforming to my star ratings and opted for their own max of 6* ha.

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon. Or any other good book retailor 🙂

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book as part of the tour but I’ll be adding this to my purchased collection too

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Paul Ian Cross, PhD, is a scientist, researcher, writer, and educator from London, UK.

Paul works in clinical research (developing new medicines) and he’s also a science communicator (presenting science to non-scientists). Paul specialises in vaccine development and has an interest in pharmacovigilance (the safety of medicinal products). His PhD research investigated the benefit-risk assessment of medicines, and how patients and the public can be more involved in their treatment decisions.

Paul’s popular social media accounts (@DrPaulScience) are full of STEM-themed content for all ages, but particularly for parents and adults to share with the children in their lives. Paul is a member of #TeamHalo, a UN backed initiative where doctors, healthcare workers, and scientists share accurate information about healthcare, science, and the COVID-19 vaccines. In 2021, Paul was named as a ‘Luminary’ at the G7’s Vaccine Confidence Summit, in recognition for his science communication work on social media.

In addition to his research career, Paul has a passion for introducing children to STEM subjects, particularly reluctant readers. By introducing science creatively, he aims to spark their interest, allowing them to gain confidence with their reading. As a previous reluctant reader himself, he understands how hard it can be. But it’s all about making reading fun and interesting!

Social Media Links –

https://www.instagram.com/DrPaulScience/

@drpaulscience

Twitter @DrPaulScience

BLOG TOUR – Dead Money by Keith Nixon (Jonah Pennance Crime Thrillers Book 2)

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Today I help kick off the blog tour for Dead Money by Keith Nixon. Any follower of my blog will know Keith is a firm favourite of mine 😊

Here’s the blurb

With a reputation for solving bizarre murders Detective Inspector Jonah Pennance, recently transferred to the National Crime Agency, is brought in to investigate the mysterious death of celebrity fund manager, Grady Carnegie – choked to death, then his body arranged and ready for a wake.

Then a second corpse turns up under identical circumstances – that of washed-up investigative reporter, Stan Thewlis. But how are the two men connected?

Soon, Pennance’s partner, Sergeant Simone Smithson, comes under suspicion for the deaths – the evidence seems overwhelming. To save her Pennance must determine what role the shadowy organisation Blackthorn plays and who is in the background, pulling all the strings…

Review

Dead Money is the 2nd book in the Jonah Pennance Crime Thrillers series.. and I’m so glad to be back!

Pennance, who is now with the National Crime Agency Is brought in to help investigate a mysterious death. It’s clear he’s going to have his hands full the moment a 2nd body is discovered.. the only link between them at first is the method of their death..but there must be more.

As the investigation starts to gain pace there’s more than one stumbling block for Pennance to navigate.. Sergeant Simone Smithson for one..,Smithson and Pennance have a history and it’s going to make this investigation that much harder.

I’m never one for spoilers but I loved the method of death, it hooks you in straightaway as an unusual murder which you just have to see through to the end.

The characters are brilliant as ever, Keith Nixon knows how to write that’s for sure and gives a lot of depth to Pennance. He’s a flawed character, swayed by emotions at times but he’s fascinating! I love that he enjoys ruffling feathers along the way ha.

What I really loved was how the author developed characters who didn’t even say a word… the victims, especially Stan Thewlis. You can really see a lot of time was given to writing the plot ensuring a backstory full of intriguing titbits.

Nixon keeps getting better and better, if that’s even possible. All I know is every book he puts out there is a real cracking read that any fan of the genre will love!

Dead Money starts slow, setting the scene… then we are thrust into a world of misdirection as the author masterfully takes us on the investigation with Jonah.. weeding out the truth.

Probably the strongest finishing book from Nixon yet leaving me with a insatiable thirst for more!

5/5 Stars.

To find out more or to purchase head to Goodreads or Amazon (Or any local bookstore 😊 )

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and ZooloosBookTours for having me on the tour and for providing me a copy of the book to aid my review! I’ve already bought my own copy too!

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio

Keith Nixon is the best-selling author of sixteen novels and one million words in print, including the Margate based Solomon Gray series of over 250,000 copies in circulation and reached no.1 on Amazon in the UK, US, Canada and Australia.

Keith lived near the gritty seaside town of Margate, where many of his novels are based, for 17 years before relocating to the edge of the Peak District with his family where he lives today. Keith works in a senior sales role within a high-tech industry and has regularly travelled all over the globe.

His novels are published by Gladius Press and Bastei Lubbe (German)


Follow Keith:


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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/knntom

Website: keithnixon.co.uk

BLOG TOUR – The Hostage of Rome by Robert M. Kidd

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Today we kick off the blog tour for The Hostage of Rome by Robert M. Kidd!

Here’s the blurb

217 BC. Rome has been savaged, beaten and is in retreat. Yet, in that winter of winters, her garrisons cling on behind the walls of Placentia and Cremona, thanks to her sea-born supplies. If he could be freed, a hostage of Rome may yet hold the key to launching a fleet of pirates that could sweep Rome from the seas. For that hostage is none other than Corinna’s son Cleon, rival heir to the throne of Illyria, held in Brundisium, four hundred miles south of the Rubicon.

But Hannibal is set on a greater prize! Macedon is the great power in Greece, feared even by Rome. Its young king, Philip, is being compared with his illustrious ancestor, Alexander the Great. An alliance with Macedon would surely sound the death knell for Rome.

              Given Hannibal’s blessing, Sphax, Idwal and Corinna face an epic journey against impossible odds. Navigating the length of the Padus, past legionary garrisons and hostile Gauls, they must then risk the perils of the storm-torn Adria in the depths of the winter. If the gods favour them and they reach the lands of the pirate queen, only then will their real trials begin.

Review

The Hostage of Rome is book 3 in The Histories of Sphax series. I’d highly recommend reading the first two books.. they are bloody good but also you’ll get to understand Sphax and his motivations a little better 😊

Sphax is a former slave and nephew to Hannibal, leader of the Carthage army. It’s been a tough ride for Sphax for sure but now he must face a new challenge….

Rome may have lost the battle, but the war is far from over as small garrisons hold strong.

There’s hope in the form of Cleon, a 2 year old heir to the throne of Illyria, yet unfortunately a hostage of Rome. But how?

Hannibal is a great leader but his sights are elsewhere, Macedon, and it’s up to his nephew Sphax and Corinna, Sphax’s lover and Cleon’s mother, to navigate the waters and find a way to free him!

One major issue is communications… Sphax and the Numidians aren’t sailors after all. This led to some quite amusing retorts between the characters and inner monologue from Sphax. These little moments really helped build the connections between the characters but also have a ring of truth around them. Sailing must not have been easy, even for those with experience so the amount of detailed added by the author really managed to emphasize just what an achievement it was for Sphax to make this journey.

Along the way we will see Sphax come face to face with Queen Teuta of Illyria, Corinna’s mother. Does she have the manpower at her disposal to crush Rome once and for all? And at what cost?

Oh and the journey is not isn’t an easy one that’s for sure, there’s also numerous legionaries and Gauls just waiting to capture Sphax! Who wouldn’t want to capture the nephew of Hannibal afterall.. Not to spoil anything but you’ll not be surprised to know things don’t go smoothly and we meet a wonderful new character by the name of Falto..Oh trust me you’ll hate him.. but love him too!

Sphax ends up in a very tricky situation!

The Hostage of Rome is a thrilling ride you’ll love to be part of.

For the history/fact buffs out there there’s so much detail added when you look for it, places, animals and descriptions as Sphax’s travels by boat down the Po river to their final destination. Nothing is forced in there, just nicely woven into the tale.

This series is really coming together nicely, the developments, the pace and detail all intertwined to deliver a tremendous tale packed full of energy and excitement.

Fans of the genre will love this one. The authors style is so easy to read so is perfect for those who love a plot driven story with a natural flow of detail.

I’m really enjoying following the authors progress with this series.

Easy 4/5 Stars form me

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the blog tour! I received an ARC of the book as part of the tour but I’ll be adding this to my purchased collection too 🙂

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio – Robert M. Kidd

When Cato the Censor demanded that ‘Carthage must be destroyed,’ Rome did just that. In 146 BC, after a three year siege, Carthage was raised to the ground, its surviving citizens sold into slavery and the fields where this once magnificent city had stood, ploughed by oxen. Carthage was erased from history.

That’s why I’m a novelist on a mission! I want to set the historical record straight. Our entire history of Hannibal’s wars with Rome is nothing short of propaganda, written by Greeks and Romans for their Roman clients. It intrigues me that Hannibal took two Greek scholars and historians with him on campaign, yet their histories of Rome’s deadliest war have never seen the light of day.

My hero, Sphax the Numidian, tells a different story!

When I’m not waging war with my pen, I like to indulge my passion for travel and hill walking, and like my hero, I too love horses. I live in Pembrokeshire, West Wales.

Follow the author –

Website

Twitter

Facebook

Want the chance to win a signed book?

Giveaway to Win Book 6 in The Histories of Sphax series to be dedicated to the winner, & a signed dedicated copy too (Open INT)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.