Category Archives: Book Reviews

BLOG TOUR – Shield of Mercia by MJ Porter

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for Shield of Mercia by MJ Porter!

Here’s the blurb.

Mercia is triumphant. Her king is safe. But Wessex was never Mercia’s only enemy.
Tamworth, AD836

Following a brutally cold winter, King Wiglaf of Mercia is in the ascendancy. Even Wessex’s Archbishop of Canterbury extraordinarily ventures to Mercia to broker a religious accord. But, can the hard-won peace prevail?

Viking raiders threaten Wessex. These blood-thirsty warriors are fast, skilful and have no reticence about killing those who stand in their way. Their aim isn’t to rule but to overwhelm, slaughter and take ill-gotten wealth.

King Wiglaf is no fool. As the Vikings push to overwhelm Wessex, Mercia’s lands look insecure. King Wiglaf needs the shields of Mercia’s warriors to prevent the overwhelming advancement of their deadliest enemy yet.

To save Mercia, Icel must first prevail over the two men who mean to end his life; King Ecgberht of Wessex and his son, Æthelwulf of Kent and only then the marauding Viking army for whom boundaries have no meaning.

An action packed, thrilling historical adventure perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy.

Review

We are back with Icel for the latest instalment in the The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles series!

Boy it’s been some journey.. but Icel cant rest yet. There’s still a lot of bad blood and political tension following invents of the last book.. is that threat gone forever… hmmmm.

There’ still the shadow hanging over him.. the truth of who he really is and what that could mean for Mercia… but Icel just wants to be a warrior…

There’s not much time to contemplate this though as a Viking army needs to be contended with. The country may be divided but can the King’s put differences aside to battle their common foe? .

Icel has barely had time to recover too, he’s been through so much already, but there’s little time to heal, both mentally and physically as it’s time for Icel to serve his King once again, to stop the advancing threat.

What I really enjoyed was the balance, the build up of political tension..showing sometimes battles are done with words, subtle movements putting the pieces om the boardgame for the perfect setup…only to have the reader then smashed from their feet with the battle and gore.. I mean sometimes the only answer is a bloody sword!

Development wise I loved that we had the addition of new characters such as Aldhelm, but also revisit some firm favourites in Cuthred and Wynflaed..

The first chapter for me was a beautiful piece of writing, not only did it set the scene.. set the tension and fear for the remainder of the novel it also reminded followers of the series of previous events.. even the mention of the name Wine takes me back to the first novel and the death of Icel’s uncle…that’s the power the authors words hold..the reader really is mesmerised and transported to another life.

Wynflaed is older now and for me the fear I have for her was mirrored in the fear of the Viking threat, the tension she builds so eloquently with her words mirrored the tension between the Kings of the land..

The tension just builds and the pace is superb.. as the battles and blood flow the pace increases and you find yourself hungry for more and more.. I devoured those last few chapters as you are just left with no choice but to keep reading! Wowza.

MJ Porter shows us why they are one of the best in the genre! Shield of Mercia is rich in detail, rich in development and rich in gore… what more could you want from an MJ Porter novel?

I’m always amazed looking back to how much happens in each novel.. and Shield of Mercia doesn’t disappoint. I never feel safe… who will survive.. where will the next battle come from.. who can be trusted… you are kept on the edge of your seat!

You could jump into the series now if you wanted as the author provides enough detail for new readers to understand the flow and motivations but for me it’s a series to enjoy from the beginning to really feel that development… it’s just that good you need to read it from yourself!

Easy 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link –
https://mybook.to/ShieldofMercia

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

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

Bookbub profile: @coloursofunison

BLOG TOUR – Camelot by Peter Gibbons.

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Today I’m kicking of the blog tour for Camelot by Peter Gibbons!

Here’s the blurb

Can one-man unite Britain and secure its future?

Dark Age Britain

Britain slides into darkness. A splintered land ruled by brutal Kings in their hilltop fortresses and besieged by Saxon invaders.

Wielding Excalibur, Arthur Pendragon, king of kings is all that stands between Britain and Saxon conquest.

His call to arms to unite against the Saxon invasion as one army is rebuked. Ancient rivalries, jealousy, and bitterness prevent Arthur from uniting his countrymen in defiance of the savage Saxon warlords who have seized Britain’s east and south coast.

Arthur must face and defeat enemies within his own kingdom, and then unite the kingdoms of Britain in a war that will shake the country’s very foundations

Can Arthur succeed with vicious enemies all around him? Merlin, Lancelot, Bors, Gawain and Kai join their swords to Arthur’s iron will as they do battle for Britain’s very existence.

The continuation of the compelling, fast-paced series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell.

Review

We are back with Arthur as he stands against the Saxon threat.. he’s Pendragon, the protector of Britain..but can he face a threat closer to home?

Arthur and his men have been pushing back the Saxons for what seems like forever…it’s finally time to rest as the weather turns and stops the Saxons from crossing the sea.

A well earned rest then??? yeah that’s not possible. Merlin arrives and confirms the newest threat.. there are kingdoms within Britain who don’t support him.. they see him as usurper.. but the only way to defeat the Saxons truly is to band together.. what can he do?

Well Arthur marches his men across Britain to bring the kingdoms to heel… by any means necessary.

This is where the authors talent really shines through and his words sing off the page.. Arthurs torment.. he still doesn’t see himself as the person to unite Britain.. he doesn’t want to fight his fellow countrymen..he wants to reason with those against him.. he just needs support for a little longer so they can finally see off the Saxons.. he doesn’t crave power… but they won’t listen…so he needs to let the inner rage out, at times let savage energy overcome him to crush those who refuse to accept him… he’s left with no other choice.. you can see the inner turmoil.

That’s not the only thing on his mind.. his Queen.. Guinevere..they both long for a child but have not been blessed…this brings its own tension.. amplification comes with the change in religion sweeping the land.. Christianity has taken hold and the Druids of the past are struggling to keep their place.. Arthur is in a hard place.. Merlin..the druid obviously doesn’t hold any nice thoughts for these vermin.. but his Queen on the other hand.. she’s listened to their words can their God grant them a child?

There’s a battle to be had no matter which way he looks!

Speaking of battle, they come thick and fast and I loved the detail added, the stress of battle, the stench.. the urgency… it’s beautifully brutal and exhilarating but also moving.. The excitement tapered with Arthurs struggles.. too many have died along the way and he’s not here for glory.. he’s there to protect Britain.

Camelot is book 3 in the series and it was lovely to see Arthur reflect on his journey, allowing the author to throw in details so fans of the series can reminisce but also allows new readers to join now with some understanding allowing readers to understand his emotions and motivations.

The only way to describe Camelot is “rich”.. its rich is detail, battles, development in characters and plot, emotion.. brutality and kindness, struggles, pain.. oh my..

I’m sure not there’s much better in the genre.. Peter Gibbons shows exactly how to write a historical fiction novel, balanced perfectly.. it’s a bloody delightful read.

5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link –
https://mybook.to/CamelotSocial

Author Bio –

Peter Gibbons is a financial advisor and author of the highly acclaimed Viking Blood and Blade trilogy. He originates from Liverpool and now lives with his family in County Kildare.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @PeterGibbonsAuthor

Twitter: @AuthorGibbons

Instagram: @PeterMGibbons

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

Bookbub profile:@petermgibbons1

BLOG TOUR – A Mirror Murder – First In The Jan Christopher Cozy Mystery Series by Helen Hollick.

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for A Mirror Murder – First In The Jan Christopher Cozy Mystery Series by Helen Hollick!

The first in a series of quick-read, cozy mysteries set during the 1970s in North East London and North Devon, featuring the characters of Jan Christopher, her Aunt Madge, her uncle, DCI Toby Christopher and romantic interest DC Lawrence Walker – plus several other endearing, regular characters.

The background of Jan’s career as a library assistant is based on the author’s own library years during the 1970s, using many borrowed (often hilarious!) anecdotes, her life in suburban north east London on the edge of Epping Forest, and her present life in rural North Devon…

Here’s the blurb


July 1971
Eighteen-year-old library assistant Jan Christopher’s life is to change on a rainy evening, when her legal guardian and uncle, DCI Toby Christopher, gives her a lift home after work. Driving the car, is her uncle’s new Detective Constable, Lawrence Walker – and it is love at first sight for the young couple. But romance is soon to take a back seat when a baby boy is taken from his pram, a naked man is scaring young ladies in nearby Epping Forest, and an elderly lady is found, brutally murdered… Are the events related? How will they affect the staff and public of the local library where Jan works – will romance survive and blossom between library assistant Jan Christopher and DC Walker? Or will a brutal murder intervene?

Review

I’ve heard many a goof thing about Helen Hollick so was really looking forward to getting to grips with this one.

The story follows Jan Christopher is a young librarian. She’s got an inquisitive mind and takes note of the little details in life.

Her Uncle Toby is a DCI in the local police force and introduces her to a colleague DC Laurie Walker… you can tell Uncle Toby planned this.. the little ploy works and they agree to go on a date.

whilst walking home a murder is discovered and Jan turns amateur sleuth.. she’s perfect for the role.. who knows the people in the area better than her?

This is where it gets fun and the cosy element of the tale really kicks in.. we quickly learn while Jan has noted the little quirks people have there’s a lot more to them that.. and some are a little more suspicious than others… you can’t help but get sucked in and get excited to see what Jan can find out!

I really liked Jan and how we are introduced, it sets the tone and pace nicely and puts the reader in a relaxed mode.. you really can curl up on the couch with a cuppa for this one and enjoy.

I feel the setting really played to the cosy feel of the story, the connections that perhaps we don’t have these days with our neighbours etc, noting the little thing in life. There’s also a lot of little titbits of info putting you nicely in the time period.

I won’t spoil Jan’s adventure but it’s certainly an engrossing read, the pace perfect and light..super easy to read and enjoy. If you like the idea of an old school mystery you’ll love this..

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?

Purchase Links

A Mirror Murder Amazon Universal Link https://getbook.at/MirrorMurder

Amazon Author Page Universal Link: https://viewauthor.at/HelenHollick

Want to know more about the rest of the series?

Episode 2: A MYSTERY OF MURDER

set in rural Devon, Christmas 1971

Library Assistant Jan Christopher is to spend Christmas in Devon with her boyfriend, DS Laurie Walker and his family, but when a murder is discovered, followed by a not very accidental accident, the traditional Christmas spirit is somewhat marred…What happened to Laurie’s ex-girlfriend? Where is the vicar’s wife? Who took those old photographs? And will the farmer up the lane ever mend those broken fences?

“There are lots of things to enjoy in the second in the Jan Christopher cosy mystery series” Best-selling cozy mystery author Debbie Young

“A laid back sort of novel, the kind that you can relax while reading, and simply let the story happen. This author has a particularly unique style of writing… this book wasn’t simply a story, but an experience. You almost have the feeling that the author is reading the book to you, and is adding in her own little quips every now and again. I loved every second… The whole mystery is well thought out… utterly amazing!” Review: I Got Lost In A Book Blog

“The pace is gently cosy, despite the murder… Jan is a wonderful character; young, naïve, but also savvy when needed. And Laurie is a gem. All the characters and their foibles and actions stay true to the era… a lovely, warm story.” Review: Ruins & Reading

More in the series:

Episode 3 A MISTAKE OF MURDER

Was murder deliberate – or a tragic mistake?

Episode 4 A MEADOW MURDER

Make hay while the sun shines? But what happens when a murder is discovered, and country life is disrupted?

Episode 5 A MEMORY OF MURDER

A missing girl, annoying decorators, circus performers and a wanna-be rock star to deal with. But who remembers the brutal, cold case murder of a policeman?

Episode 6 A MISCHIEF OF MURDER

The village Flower and Veg Show should be a fun annual event – but who added mischief and murder to the traditional schedule?

Author Bio –

About Helen:

Known for her captivating storytelling and rich attention to historical detail, Helen’s historical fiction, nautical adventure series, cosy mysteries – and her short stories – skilfully invite readers to step into worlds where the boundaries between fact and fiction blend together.

Helen started writing as a teenager, but after discovering a passion for history, was initially published in 1993 in the UK with her Arthurian Pendragon’s Banner Trilogy and two Anglo-Saxon novels about the events that led to the 1066 Battle of Hastings, one of which, The Forever Queen (USA title – A Hollow Crown in the UK) became a USA Today best-seller. Her Sea Witch Voyages are nautical-based adventures inspired by the Golden Age of Piracy. She also writes the Jan Christopher cosy mystery series set during the 1970s, and based around her, sometimes hilarious, years of working as a North London library assistant. Her 2025 release is Ghost Encounters, a book about the ghosts of North Devon – even if you don’t believe in ghosts you might enjoy the snippets of interesting history and the many location photograhs.

Helen and her family moved from London to Devon after a Lottery win on the opening night of the London Olympics, 2012. She spends her time glowering at the overgrown garden, fending off the geese, chasing the peacocks away from her roses, helping with the horses and wishing the friendly, resident ghosts would occasionally help with the housework…

Social Media Links –

Website: https://helenhollickauthor.blogspot.com/

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/helen.hollick

Twitter/X: @HelenHollick  https://x.com/HelenHollick

Blog: supporting authors & their books

https://ofhistoryandkings.blogspot.com/

Bluesky:

@helenhollick.bsky.social

Monthly ‘newsletter’ blog:

Thoughts from a Devonshire Farmhouse.

https://thoughtsfromadevonshirefarmhouse.blogspot.com/

BLOG TOUR – Valour by Richard Cullen.

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Valour by Richard Cullen!

Here’s the blurb.

Estienne Wace is forced to play a desperate game of cat and mouse, where the only way to win is to survive.

Burzenland 1223 AD

King András II of Hungary has invited the Teutonic Knights to secure his eastern frontier against the nomadic Cuman raiders, establishing fortresses along the Carpathian Mountains to quell the constant incursions by pagan clans.

Estienne Wace, has found purpose serving at the Order’s fortress of Rosenau, and he has earned respect through his unflinching courage. When a Christian mission, led by Fabrisse of Avallon, arrives determined to convert a pagan clan beyond the mountains, Estienne’s warnings of danger fall on deaf ears.

News soon arrives of Fabrisse’s capture and Estienne, along with a small band of knights, undertake a desperate rescue mission through hostile territory where Estienne will face trials beyond endurance.

In the ensuing crucible of violence, he must decide what price he is willing to sacrifice for survival, justice, and redemption, in a land where mercy is a luxury few can afford.

Review

Valour is book 3 in the Chronicles of the Black Lion series and I would highly recommend you read the rest of the series first to truly understand the journey Estienne Wace has been on.

Wace is now serving the Order of Saint Mary.. after the events that played out in book 2 of the series his faith has been shaken too many times.. he’s struggled to find purpose.. but with the help of his friend, Amalric, he has a place in life. Theirs is a friendship forged in the heat of battle.

You know things aren’t going to be quiet for Wace and that’s confirmed when Fabrisse of Avallon arrives, she’s on mission to convert the pagans and to spread Gods word..what’s Wace’s job you might ask.. he’s to escort her and the bishops to a meeting point where the latest tribe ready to convert await. He thinks its a stupid idea.. he knows what the pagans are like but he’s bound to do as commanded.

It was never going to be that simple was it…

The clan themselves are facing struggles a question of faith.. loyalty.. courage… their very way of live hangs in the balance. Things start off okay when Fabrisse arrives and Wace heads back, as intrusted, to the fortress.. but things soon sour.

Internal conflict within the clan sees their leader killed and Fabrisse and the bishops taken hostage.. they are to suffer a fate worse than any…

Luckily for Fabrisse, Wace and the knights are alerted to their predicament and set out to save them!

This will be the biggest test so far for Wace and his friends but can they save Fabrisse?

I won’t spoil it for you but Valour had to be finest offering from the author yet.. exciting but gut wrenchingly brutal..

Richard Cullen knows exactly how to wrap the reader around his finger.. how to get the reader invested in the characters and did a wonderful job of adding new characters to the ensemble not only do they bring fresh blood to the story but also play their own pivotal parts in Wace’s journey.

The plot is engrossing so it was difficult to look beyond that excitement in the heat of the moment but when you decompress at the end of a chapter you can see just how much was packed in, detail of locations, weather, the people, their motivations, all the little bits needed to understand what the people must be facing, painting a vivid picture of their lives.

There’s plenty of battles, blood and death for the action fans too but what really makes it stand out is the raw emotion in those scenes.. every death matters.

I feel what makes this book the 5* read it is has to be the characters and their impact.. a few stand out.. Rotger for example..this massive man left a lasting impression.

The main character that stood out for me was Jurgen.. he’s a trapper.. he knows the land well and is sought to help Wace and the knight’s track the clan down. Jurgen along with his faithful companion Clovis.. I mean I really would love to read about Jurgen’s life and how he came to be where he is, we know he’s felt the pain of loss but I just feel there’s a story there somewhere..

Again no spoilers but another character left a lasting impression…Carsten.. that ending.. wow!!

I can’t praise this book enough..the author nailed everything.. the story is Wace’s journey but it’s so much more than that.. each character has their own journey.. they mean something.. Wace doesn’t overshadow them but I felt his pain, every emotion.. every death just like Wace did.

This will easily make my top 5 books for 2025!

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/Valour

Author Bio –

Richard Cullen is a writer of historical adventure and epic fantasy. His historical adventure series Chronicles of the Black Lion is set in thirteenth-century England.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @Wordhog-100064278872214

Twitter: @rich4ord

Instagram: @thewordhog

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

Bookbub profile:@rich4ord

BLOG TOUR – Eagle and the Flame and Adam Lofthouse

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Today is my spot on the blog tour for Eagle and the Flame and Adam Lofthouse!

Here’s the blurb

Rebellion is in the air at the far reaches of empire.

Wall of Hadrian, Britannia, AD 367. Tribune Sixtus Victorinus is scouting north of the Wall when he first sees the smoke. Riding south he finds a province in chaos, the local populace in flight, the soldiers absent.

Britannia is ablaze, overrun with barbarians and Valentia is the word on everyone’s lips. But no one seems to have the first clue what it means…

Victorinus may have let his life run to ruin and drunk his youth away, but now he must forge himself into the soldier he always wanted to be, the hero his children think he is.

Because his family are among the missing, and traitors lurk much closer than he could ever believe.

To save his family, he must first save an empire.

EAGLE AND THE FLAME will sweep you through the tumultuous years of the late Roman Empire.

Review

So for fans of the author, or keen followers of my blog you’ll know doubt recognise the author and perhaps a bit of the blurb.. Lofthouse was picked up by the awesome Boldwood Books and his previous works have undergone a light edit and rename. Eagle and the Flame was previously published as Valentia, being familiar with the novel you really could see how this little edit has made the writing a little sharper.. more refined.. I mean it was perfect anyway but seriously you can see how the author is honing his craft and that can only be good for us with hopefully plenty more books to come!

Down to the nitty gritty of the plot.. Victorinus and his men are outcasts of a sought.. the dregs of the army, drunks and those who cannot be tamed.. but good men worth keeping around.. even at a distance.

When rebellion reaches the empire and the name Valentia is seen across the land, Victorinus and his small band set out to see what can be done and head to see his friend Felicius. Felicuis and Victorinus have known each other for years.. Although very different people they hold some of the same qualities so you can see why they are friends.. if only Victorinus could overcome his demons!

The book starts strong and the plot moves with perfect speed building the pressure as Victorinus and Felicuis spit up with the same aim.. find out who is behind this and to put a stop to the madness.

We soon find out a number of Roman forts have been abandoned… but there’s no bodies left behind..and there are multiple enemies reported all over the land..who would have the power and money to make this happen or is it all one big coincidence? And what or who is Valentia…Can Victorinus trust everything he’s being told?

We see many battles along the way, death & pain & treachery .. on land as well as at sea and the detail given was brilliant, so much packed in but with that pinch of development needed to grip you and bring the characters to life along the way, which Lofthouse manged to do effortlessly!

Hard hitting and commanding plot with character development that just keeps coming!

Adam Lofthouse is one to watch.. he’s shown how good his storytelling is..things are only going from strength to strength so I eagerly await his next offering!!

5/5 stars

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/EagleandtheFlame

Author Bio –

Adam has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. He lives in Kent, UK.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @AdamPLofthouse

Twitter: @AdamPLofthouse

Instagram: @adamplofthouse

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

Bookbub profile: @AdamLofthouse

BLOG TOUR – Timewaif & The Roman Road by Deborah Lyon

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Timewaif & The Roman Road by Deborah Lyon.

Here’s the blurb

Twelve-year-old Tim Wainwright, growing up on the west coast of Cumbria, struggles with his mum’s intense grief after the death of his dad and the constant taunting of village bullies. Only his best friend Annie brings any fun to his life.

Fleeing his tormentors after school one day, he finds a hidden cave in the sea cliffs. Once inside, Tim leaps through an enchanted hopscotch board to emerge into a very different Cumbria… two thousand years in the past.

This is an ancient land of Romans and Britons under the rule of Emperor Hadrian. Tim soon realises he must navigate a totally different culture, facing adventures which challenge not only his resilience and wits to the limit but even risk his very life.

Will he ever get back to his own time, his mum and Annie? And does he even really want to?

Join Tim on his rip-roaring adventure exploring Roman life in the wilds of ancient Britain, the first in the Timewaif series of historical novels set throughout the ages for children to enjoy.

Review

Timewaif & The Roman Road is aimed at the younger audience, around 9 – 11 years old but is a very fun read for an adult too. I love anything to do with the Romans and wanted to see if the author could bring some passion and excitement for the period for younger readers.

Focusing on that side first.. wow.. there’s some much detail packed in.. little nuggets of info to captivate the readers mind. I couldn’t help but feel if I’d had stories given to me when I was younger like this my love of history would be even stronger.. its just so effortlessly interesting and immersive.

The other thing I love about this time of genre aimed is typically they deal with some personal issues too, to help the younger mind see these things and hopefully help them process their won feelings. Timewaif & The Roman Road ticked that box beautifully. Tim the main character has some issues at home, his mother hasn’t been well and has had her own issues leaving Tim to kind of grow up himself. As we all know growing up isn’t always easy and we see Tim’s struggles

This was such a fun and entertaining read even though it’s aimed for a younger reader but even the struggles Tim faced were handled in a sensitive and thoughtful way making it even better for me, having two young kids myself… helps me remember how they might be feel in certain situations as we see things though different eyes.

Nice fun 5 star read!

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Tempted yet?

Why not head to Goodreads or Amazon to find out more!

Who is Deborah Lyon?

Deborah Lyon has lived in Cumbria for nearly 20 years, having previously worked in London where she enjoyed a successful career in corporate communications. A lifelong lover of the Lake District, Deborah moved north to raise her blended family of four children by Windermere, where she lives with her husband, Gez, two golden retrievers, a Border terrier, and guinea pigs.

Her debut title, Lake District Unlocked, a children’s travel guide to Cumbria, was published in 2010. A graduate of Oxford University with a degree in English and French Literature, Deborah also holds a Master’s degree in Creative Writing from Lancaster University. She draws inspiration from the region’s history and folklore, with the idea for Timewaif & The Roman Road sparked by an inscription on a Roman tombstone and a walk through a ruined felltop fort.

When she isn’t writing, Deborah runs a holiday-let business and enjoys exploring the landscapes that inspire her work, with over 170 Wainwright summits under her belt.

Where can you find them?

Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/timewaifbooks/
Websitehttps://timewaif.com/

Why not follow the tour..

BLOG TOUR – Empire of Hanging Swords by R.R. Egal

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Empire of Hanging Swords by R.R. Egal!

Here’s the blurb.

An empire on the brink.

An unimaginable betrayal.

And one girl who has to hold it all together.

Empress Neferet is no stranger to the weight of a crown nor the responsibility that comes with it. Secretly, she hunts her beloved father’s murderer, seeking justice for his brutal death as unprecedented natural disasters are spreading fast across her lands.

Once she discovers the assassin was none other than her closest ally, the Dominus of Theron, fury drives her to cross the borders of his kingdom to seek revenge with the blessing of the gods. However, once Neferet crosses paths with Dante, the Dominus’s son, they uncover a conspiracy that shakes her deepest convictions and suggests that the disasters ravaging her empire weren’t so natural after all.

As more gods descend with cryptic and conflicting messages, Neferet’s faith is thrown into turmoil and she finds herself with more questions than answers. War looms on the horizon, so she and Dante must piece together the conspirators’ plans—and the gods’ true intentions—to stop them before her empire collapses.

Review

Empire of Hanging Swords follows follows Neferet, the Empress of the Etalan Empire and Dante, son of the Dominus of Theron. There’s tension from the outset, their countries are allies but Neferet has reason to believe someone has betrayed her and the Etalan Empire, her father was murdered, was it really their allies behind this?

We now meet Dante, the Dominus’s son.. tension is thick but soon a deeper conspiracy is discovered, it wasn’t just one murder.. there’s more planned and the Dominus is next!

It’s time for the two to put the their differences behind them and work together to save the Dominus..

As the story progresses you can see the tension between the two start to change.. it’s gradual and paced well but when they finally realise their feelings for each other it wasn’t a shock.. if anything you are rooting for them, and relieved for them. I’m not a big fan of romance in stories.. I’m always worried it will take focus away from the main plot of the story but I need not have worried as plenty of time is given so things develop at a steady pace without overshadowing the plot.

Speaking of development I really loved how the author balanced the world the characters live in exploring the makeup and the various religions.. again giving just the right amount of time to show it’s importance.

There’s plenty of action too for those who like a battle or two. I can’t help but love how the author managed to mirror the physical battles with the mental battles the main characters face. Who can they trust, can they trust each other.. can they even trust their own feelings and motivations..

Very fulfilling read.

4/5 stars

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Tempted yet?

Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62452845-empire-of-hanging-swords

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/hangingswords-zbt

Who is R.R. Egal?

R. R. Egal is part writer and part eldritch terror. Empire of Hanging Swords is her debut novel and was inspired by her love of mythology in all its forms. Some of her favourite things in life are cats, old war movies, and the Oxford comma. When she’s not writing, she enjoys watching historical documentaries and reading sad poems.

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BLOG TOUR – The Atlantis Covenant by Rob Jones

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for The Atlantis Covenant by Rob Jones 

Here’s the blurb

The greatest mystery of all time is about to be revealed. 

When world-famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his lifelong dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer. 

But he’s not the only one looking for it… 

His discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilization between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world’s most secretive society. 

From the dangers of the Iraqi desert to Cuba and the jungles of El Salvador to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Hunter faces a race against time and murderous enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the greatest prize in history. As he fights for his life, it soon becomes apparent that his enemies are searching for something altogether more sinister than the lost city… 

Hunter must use his unique ingenuity and knowledge to decipher the clues and find Atlantis – and its lethal treasures – before they fall into enemy hands. 

Review 

The Atlantis Covenant follows Max Hunter as he sets out to prove Atlantis is real.. Think Indiana Jones meets Mission Impossible. 

When we first meet Max he’s just discovered a statue that could change the worlds view on Atlantis.. Only for it to pulled from his hands at the last moment and finds himself prisoner. 

Through a little luck he finds a way out of the mess but this is only the beginning! 

Hunter will stop at nothing to find the proof he needs but it’s clear he’s not the only one… and those following the same path don’t necessarily have his compassion or morals!  

Max finds himself backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation.. The issue is.. Can they be trusted themselves.. Are their motives aligned with Hunters?  

Hunter is smart though.. He knows to watch his back but at the same time will do what he needs to, to get what he needs and quickly we see Hunter set out to decipher one of the biggest mysteries. 

The task see’s him meet various people along the way, and visits to different locations around the world. What I really loved is the author packed in enough detail to make those individuals and locations come to life but really kept the excitement focused fully on the adventure.. 

Hunter has to fight his way through puzzles but at the same time dodge enemies which seem to be everywhere.. 

Fast paced is an understatement.. Nothings rush but damn the action keeps coming and coming and really keeps the adrenaline coursing through the reader.  

I really liked Max he’s got a cockiness about himself.. Not so much that you dislike him.. He just believes in himself and doesn’t know when to quit! 

For my first foray into the authors style I really liked the energy, it bounces off the page and grabs you. There’s plenty of development throughout but leaves plenty of doors open for the author to explore leaving the characters anything but one dimensional.    

Strong plot mixed with intriguing characters equals a cracking story in my book. 

I’ve always been a fan of this kind of tale, adventure and history mixed, the unknown that could be right there but hidden.. Its exciting and fun..  

Super 4* read for me.. Really enjoyed the ride! 

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/AtlantisCovenantbook 

Author Bio –  

Rob Jones has published over forty books in the genres of action-adventure, action-thriller and crime. Many of his chart-topping titles have enjoyed number-one rankings and his Joe Hawke and Jed Mason series have been international bestsellers. Originally from England, today he lives in Australia with his wife and children. 

Social Media Links –   

Facebook: @RobJonesNovels 

Twitter: @AuthorRobJones 

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

BLOG TOUR – The Dragon’s Tooth by Benjamin Coward

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Today we kick off the blog tour for The Dragon’s Tooth by Benjamin Coward!

Here’s the blurb.

Dark forces are trying to overthrow the Seven Kingdoms. Can Calderon, the orphaned Kusarku prince, master a powerful magical weapon—and learn to trust his own abilities—in time to save his race and others?

After the devastating Grey War and the death of their beloved king and queen, the Kusarkus, descendants of minotaurs, reluctantly relinquished their independence and accepted the “generous protection” of the elves.

Since then, Calderon, the only heir to the Kusarku throne, has had to hide his true identity.

But when the Seven Kingdoms come under attack by unknown forces and the Kusarku are blamed, the young prince must journey to the human capital of Alezadria to defend his race and accept the responsibility of his birthright.

If not the Kusarku, though, then who is leading the hordes of goblins and trolls against innocent citizens? And who can Calderon trust, even within his own kingdom?

To aid in his struggle against evil, Calderon’s adoptive father, Bard, presents him with one half of his father’s powerful magical sword – The Dragon’s Tooth.

Working together with his friends, can Calderon master the legendary obsidian weapon and his own magical abilities in time to save the Seven Kingdoms?

Review

The Dragon’s Tooth follows Calderon, an orphaned prince, as he sets out to meet with King Adam to save his peoples reputation and to ensure the kingdom comes together to face the threat knocking at their door!

Along the way we learn about Calderon’s family and a strange weapon left by his father. How does he use it? and can he live up to his fathers image? There’s also a strange power just lying under the surface, can Calderon harness it safely?

The Dragon’s Tooth is an epic coming of age tale where the threat of attacks starts a landslide of change for young Calderon!

What I really loved was the pace versus the word count, the book isn’t overly wordy but the author didn’t rush anything and let the story unfold at a steady pace. The author even manages to pack in the detail needed to imagine the world and the people we meet along the way vividly!

Being a YA novel I felt the author really managed bring the story to life well whilst also tackling difficult topics such as exploring the differences between the races, prejudices and the struggle to feel self worth. What makes it even better is that it’s a natural flowing tale allowing the reader to stop to ponder their own feelings without feeling like the author forced you there..

I loved seeing Calderon grow, seeing him deal with different events and not only that but also navigating relationships as we meet new characters along the way.

Overall The Dragon’s Tooth is a epic tale, smart plot with well developed foundations. Ticks all the boxes! 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Tempted yet?

Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217515246-the-dragon-s-tooth

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/dragonstooth-zbt

Who is Benjamin Coward?

Growing up in the heartland of Missouri, author Benjamin Coward first discovered the thrill of world-building through role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons and books in The Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini.

In his debut YA fantasy novel, Benjamin masterfully creates a realm where relatable characters fight evil opponents and overcome struggles through teamwork and self-trust.

With a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and now living and working in north central Florida, Benjamin’s love of nature and history often seep into his storytelling, enriching the fantastical worlds he creates.

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Where can you find them?

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560607996009&_rdr
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/benjamin_coward_author/
X (formerly Twitter)https://x.com/CowardBenj28064

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BLOG TOUR – I Will Find You by Jessica Huntley

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for I Will Find You by Jessica Huntley!

Here’s the blurb

Annalise saved them from certain death. But she does want something in return…

Bonnie and her husband Steffan are hiking in the beautiful Swiss Alps when they are caught in a freak snowstorm. Fearing they may not survive, the couple are overjoyed when they stumble across an isolated cabin occupied by a lone woman, Annalise.

But their joy soon turns to unease as they realise that Annalise may have a sinister agenda.

And she’s not the only one with something to hide. Trapped together in a nightmarish pressure cooker, the cracks in Bonnie’s marriage start to show as she discovers that Steffan has been leading a secret life.

All the while Annalise becomes more and more menacing. What does she want from them? And what is she willing to do to get it?

Bound ever tighter in a horrifying web, Bonnie is finally forced to confront one terrifying truth – someone is going to die on this mountain.

Review

This is my second foray into the authors works and I already knew I’d love this one.. I just didn’t know how much!

I Will Find You is told form the point of view of two characters, Bonnie and Annalise. What I immediately loved is the authors suspenseful style of storytelling.. the plot is never drawn out too much, rather twisted and engrossing as it plays out… it gives you instant tingles as you know something isn’t right.. but you don’t know what.

The majority of the story focuses around a trip to the Swiss Alps, as Bonnie and her husband Steffan set out on a trek that will push them both to the limits.

Things take a turn when a storm hits forcing them to seek refuge in a remote cabin where they meet Annalise.

The characters compete for the readers attention as the author moves the point of view from now, to explore the past and what brings them to this moment.. the great thing is neither overshadow the other… they both just demand that attention with their own tales.. you are sucked in.. so moving from one to the next while you enjoy the chapter you can’t wait to get back and see where the previous will take you.. but then you are sucked into to that perspective… ahhh you’re honestly just hooked easily making it an easy read too as it just flows effortlessly.

I’ll try to keep this spoiler free but there’s so many creepy vibes that come off multiple characters.. Bonnie has her own trauma but there’s more to her being in the alps than we know.. Steffan.. he’s a dark horse.. you always feel there’s something you don’t quite understand.. hidden just under the surface.. and Annalise.. how did she end up here and why…

The plot is captivating and deliberately full of suspense and I just bloody loved it.. I never felt I quite knew who was good or bad.. each have their own darkness and it was just simply enthralling.

The first 20% of the book is pure build-up which then dials up a notch when they arrive in the cabin..Bonnie feels the creepiness as soon as the door closes but is she going mad? is Annalise just a lonely old woman?

There’s a subtle message through the tale as it develops.. don’t judge a book by it’s cover.. either that or everyone has skeletons in the closet..

The author got the setting prefect to as it added a claustrophobic feel that ramps up the building tension.

There’s so much more to the story than the synopsis suggests.. trust me..it goes way further and those twists are perfectly timed and hit just the right notes.

Jessica Huntley is the queen of the suspenseful thriller for sure!

A heart pounding 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Who is Jessica Huntley?

Jessica Huntley is an author of dark and twisty psychological thrillers, which often focus on mental health topics and delve deep into the minds of her characters.

She has a varied career background, having joined the Army as an Intelligence Analyst, then left to become a Personal Trainer.

She is now living her life-long dream of writing from the comfort of her home, while looking after her young son and her disabled black Labrador. She enjoys keeping fit and drinking wine (not at the same time).

Where can you find them?

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/jessica.reading.writing
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/jessica_reading_writing
X (formerly Twitter)https://twitter.com/jess_read_write
Websitehttp://www.jessicahuntleyauthor.com

Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/236600768-i-will-find-you

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/willfindyou-zbt

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