Wishtress Review

I have this unfortunate habit with the really good ones where I not only binge, but am constantly skimming ahead and giving myself all the spoilers. Much to the chagrin of my author side 😅 Wishtress was one such read! And I’m already itching for a re-read.

Synopsis:

She didn’t ask to be the Wishtress.

Myrthe was born with the ability to turn her tears into wishes. It’s a big secret to keep. When a granted wish goes wrong, a curse is placed on her: the next tear she sheds will kill her. She needs to journey to the Well and break the curse before it claims her life–and before the king’s militairen track her down. But in order to survive the journey, she must harden her heart to keep herself from crying even a single tear.

He can stop time with a snap of his fingers.

Bastiaan’s powerful–and rare–Talent came in handy when he kidnapped the old king. Now the new king has a job for him: find and capture the Wishtress and deliver her to the schloss. But Bastiaan needs a wish of his own. When he locates Myrthe, he agrees to take her to the Well in exchange for a wish. Once she’s fulfilled her end of the deal, he’ll turn her in. As long as his growing feelings for the girl with a stone heart don’t compromise his job.

They are on a journey that can only end one way: with her death.

Everyone seems to need a wish–the king, Myrthe’s cousin, the boy she thinks she loves. And they’re ready to bully, beg, and even betray her for it. No one knows that to grant even one of them, Myrthe would have to die. And if she tells them about her curse . . . they’ll just kill her anyway.

Things I Liked:

Atmosphere: It’s a perfect wintery tale with Germanic vibes and a brilliant magic system!

Characters: The characters are so complex. Heroes and villains alike! I honestly can’t decide who I’m drawn to more, Myrte or Bastiaan. They’re both such burnt little cinnamon rolls with beautiful healing journeys. (But honestly, Runt is my favorite character on the whole 😉) Also, I’m a very sensitive person and often tears come as easy as breathing. So I very much admire the control Myrte has over her emotions.

Themes: As always with Nadine books, I loved the subtle use of allegory and redemptive themes. Especially the themes of motherhood and unconditional love.

My Rating: 5/5

Greywolf’s Heart Review

I had the great pleasure to share a booth with C.M. Banschbach at Realm Makers this July! One of the many perks? I got a signed copy of her newest release before they sold out 😊

Synopsis:

A man born for war. A bastard raised in contempt. Only together can they defend their tribe from slaughter.

Fierce-hearted Comran is the chief’s son and the favored choice to be the next leader. Then his father chooses Comran’s half-brother Etran for the role, straining the loyalties of the tribe and reinforcing the distance between the two men. When Comran is offered the role of battlewolf, he is ready to do his duty—but expects no friendship in return.

Steady Etran has long been shunned as the chief’s bastard. Becoming the chief brings even more hostility, so he offers Comran the title of battlewolf to maintain tribal unity. But can he trust this reckless warrior as his general when Comran has never stood by his side?

As tensions mount within the tribe, a traitorous act leads to war. Comran and Etran must overcome their inner demons and fight for their brotherhood before the Greywolves fall to their worst enemies.

What I Liked:

Complicated Relationships: This story is at the core about a dysfunctional family learning to heal. I loved the accurate portrayal of this messy process. Redeeming broken relationships while acknowledging the pain and struggles that comes with it.

Action Packed: From battle games, to assassination attempts, to full out war with devastating consequences, this one was incredibly hard to put down!

Disaster Boys: Comran and Etran are a pair of absolute disaster boys whom I adore. Especially Comran with his penchant for snarking off to villains and body-slamming armed men who get too close to his family.

Giant Wolves: I’m absolutely a cat person in general; but, I must admit I’ve got a thing for wolves. And a wolf the size of a horse with a magic bond to it’s owner? I’d take one of those any day!

My Rating 5/5

A beautiful story of brotherhood and healing set amidst an action packed backdrop of rugged wilds, giant wolves, and war.

Seventh Sun Review

Looking for a good summer read? How about this Aztec inspired Fantasy!

Synopsis:

Thrust into leadership upon the death of his emperor father, young Prince Ahkin feels completely unready for his new position. Though his royal blood controls the power of the sun, he’s now responsible for the lives of all the Chicome people. And despite all Ahkin’s efforts, the sun is fading–and the end of the world may be at hand.

For Mayana, the only daughter of the Chicome family whose blood controls the power of water, the old emperor’s death may mean that she is next. Prince Ahkin must be married before he can ascend the throne, and Mayana is one of six noble daughters presented to him as a possible wife. Those who are not chosen will be sacrificed to the gods.

Only one girl can become Ahkin’s bride. Mayana and Ahkin feel an immediate connection, but the gods themselves may be against them. Both recognize that the ancient rites of blood that keep the gods appeased may be harming the Chicome more than they help. As a bloodred comet and the fading sun bring a growing sense of dread, only two young people may hope to change their world.

What I Liked:

Atmospheric: Lani’s rich, vivid, atmospheric style and gripping plot are a riptide, pulling unsuspecting readers under and holding them captive till the very last page.

Bingable: I fly through books on a regular basis, but I’ve never before binged so hard I went numb. Honestly, I made it through the whole set in about two days and need a re-read to properly process all the gorgeous prose and twisty feels.

Worldbuilding: I love the worldbuilding! Always been interested in ancient cultures, so the influence from lesser known myths is a big plus, while the magic system is one of the most unique and well thought out I’ve seen in quite a while.

Characters: The character development is so well done! I like Mayana and Yamania best, but every character is well fleshed out. I especially appreciate how characters react differently to similar trauma, sometimes putting them at odds and sometimes bringing them closer together.

My Rating: 5/5

There is so much truth and hope woven through these books! Lani’s heart really shines through her words with beautiful passages on worth, belief, courage, love, and life. I dare anyone to read this and say they didn’t feel seen at least once.

Songflight Review

Are you looking for a fun dragon book with diverse characters, timeless themes, and an ending that will leave you pacing the floor? Look no further!

Synopsis:

Alísa was born to lead her clan of dragon slayers, but her vocal stammer has robbed her of confidence and respect. If she can’t lead slayers, how on A’dem is she supposed to lead dragons?

As the only child of a dragon slayer chief, Alísa’s purpose should have been simple: lead the clan in ridding humankind of the dragon scourge. But while gaining respect from hardened warriors is difficult enough with a vocal stammer, when they learn her empathic powers connect uncontrollably to the dragon enemy, it becomes impossible.

Confidence shattered, Alísa resigns herself to silent service under her father’s apprentice. But when her growing connection reveals one dragon’s capacity for good, she realizes the war isn’t as black and white as the slayers teach. Now Alísa faces an impossible choice: stay with her family in comfortable but condemning silence, or follow the dragon claiming to know her true purpose.

What I Liked:

Diverse Cast: I loved the way Michelle weaved together so many complex characters. A timid, stuttering, heroin from a warrior clan with an uncanny connection to her enemies. A chief who loves his daughter deeply, and yet fears what she may become. A dragon who must work with his father’s murderers for a chance at peace. A village boy desperate to make a difference but convinced he will never be enough. All coming to terms with the meaning of worth and the dangers of judging others without first attempting to understand them.

Alísa: I related to Alísa so much! She’s introverted and compassionate with physical limitations. Ones that often cause her to be seen as weak, incapable, worthless. A sentiment she takes to heart. Yet, strength can be found in quiet perseverance. Bravery in kindness. And I loved watching as Alísa learned this and comes into her own. In the end it’s this very ‘weakness’ that becomes her strength.

Magic System: The magic system revolves around music and telepathy in a very unique way. Both a weapon and the glue that binds Alísa’s clan together. I especially loved the way it’s used with Alísa and her adopted baby dragon.

Slow-Burn Romance: Not going to say too much on this. But there’s a slow-burn I wholeheartedly ship. And an ex I desperately want to punch in the face 😂

My Rating: 4/5

Travel Reads

It’s the time of summer vacations and travel is slowly, slowly opening back up!

But the act of traveling is kind of weird when you think about it. You have this sense of being on a great adventure while stuck in cramped spaces for hours with very little sleep and a good deal of stress. It’s not all ‘pony rides in May sunshine,’ as Bilbo would say. So, you need just the right book to keep that adventuresome spirit up till you reach your destination.

Here’s a mini review on a few fast-paced, action-packed, adventure reads to keep you entertained while you await your own.

Kenan

Kenan is first in the Katiller series by Karis Waters (aka Katie Phillips of Katie Phillip’s Creative Services). An Action Rom-Com featuring Turkish hitmen, a trio of plucky American girls, and the road trip from hell that became your favorite family vacation.

Macario’s Scepter

Macario’s Scepter is first in the Magian series by M.J. McGriff. A Fantasy Adventure featuring pirates, a treasure-hunting nun, sisterhood, and sea serpents! I particularly enjoyed the twist on the twins trope.

Renegade Skyfarer

Renegade Skyfarer is first in the Stones of Terrene series by R.J Metcalf. A Steampunk featuring an amnesiac, an airship crew, dragons, and soulless creatures known as the Void Born. Lots of mystery and twists in this one! And the finale, Blood Bond, just released two weeks ago! If you’re a binger like me, you won’t be kept waiting 😉

Seventh City Review

Suddenly realizing it’s been ages since I posted a proper book review! And what better time than Virtual Realm Makers to get back to it? So, today, I’m bringing you the award winning, Seventh City! I’m so proud of Emily for taking home not only the Best in Fantasy Realm Award, but also Best Book of the Year!

This book has a special place in my heart. Not just because it’s a great book and Emily is awesome, but because it’s the first book I got on a blog tour for! (If you’d like to read that character interview with Maki, you can find it here: https://writerraegraham.com/2019/08/24/guest-post-emily-hayse/(opens in a new tab))

Synopsis:

“Let me tell you a story that happened so long ago that only the hills and rivers can remember the time . . . .”

All her life, thirteen-year-old Maki has heard tales of the legendary city of gold, buried deep in the northern frontier. But when her village is burned and her brother captured by cruel invaders, the legend becomes desperately real.

Armed with a wolf-dog and a heart of courage, Maki sets out on a journey that will demand all her strength and cunning. She is determined to bring her brother home at all costs. Yet as her quest leads her deep into a wilderness of ancient dangers, Maki realizes that even for her, some prices are too high to pay.

What I liked:

Alaskan Fantasy: I’ve always been drawn to Native culture, so the Alaskan setting alone had me falling in love. It’s so vibrant and really makes you feel like you’re there, battling the elements with the characters. Throw in a dash of whimsy and you’ve got a perfect backdrop for a great adventure!

Maki: I absolutely love Maki! A thirteen-year-old-girl capable of sending grown men to the hospital? Really, what more do you want? 😉 She’s brave and loyal, if a bit hotheaded and too stubborn for her own good; but she’s got a will of iron, a heart of gold, and a wolf to back her up.

Sibling Story: I love the familial bonds! The whole story hinges on the lengths Maki will go to save her captured brother. Watching her struggle to balance the desire to be near him with the desire to keep him safe by concealing their relationship really did a number on me. And then there’s the surrogate-sibling relationship she develops with Willow. It’s so heartwarming. And Willow himself is pretty amazing: kind, honorable, protective. Great big-brother material … or, you know, crush material. Not for Maki, she’s far too young, but a girl can dream can’t she 😉

Forgiveness: I love redemption stories! And a key part of any redemptive arc is asking and/or bestowing forgiveness. Maki starts the story with justifiable hate for the invaders of her homeland, but as she spends time with them and sees that not all are monsters, she learns to forgive and begins to heal. It is truly so beautiful and I think a timely lesson for today’s social climate.

My Rating: 5/5

A superb adventure story for those who enjoy character centric fantasy with heartwarming themes!

Oath of the Outcast Review

This one’s not actually YA, but it’s so good I had to write a review!

When I saw this cover, I was intrigued. I mean, how awesome is that font? And ‘Dragon Keep’? I’m all there! Then I saw some of Claire’s posts and realized it’s a Scottish fantasy about brothers. At that moment, I knew I would love it.

Synopsis: Years ago, Rhys MacDuffy was brutally cut off from his clan, stripped of his name and inheritance, and banished to the remote Dragon Keep. Perched high above the Shang Pass in the land of Alsaya, he assumed the mantle of the Mountain Baron, serving out his sentence as the overseer of the worst outlaws and outcasts.

But one day he receives a desperate message from the clan who disowned him: MacDuffy’s Seer—his beloved brother—has been taken by their enemies.

With his band of Mountain Brigands and an unwelcome sidekick, Rhys leaves his mountain stronghold to find and rescue his brother. The tide of war is rising amongst the Clans of Alsaya, fueled by the magic-wielding sect of Druids who seek to unleash a dark force the world has long forgotten.

Can the bond of blood run deeper than banishment?

Things I Loved:

Rhys/Mountain Baron: The brooding hero with a dark past and heart of gold. I love that for all his gruff exterior, he really cares about people. He’s basically spent the past seven years running around the mountains adopting the unfortunates and doing away with the truly evil.
Family Bonds: I love a good sibling story, and this is one of the best I’ve read in quite a while. Rhys may be bitter and hold nothing but hatred for his former clan, but NO ONE touches his little brother. No matter how hard he tries, he just can’t escape the fact that he still loves his family, and they haven’t given up on him either.
The Side Characters: So, there are a lot of them, and most don’t get much page time. But the main ones are all complex, multi-layered characters with distinct personalities and their own solid backstories.
No Romance: While I read a lot of wonderful YA books that have great relationships and deal with serious, deep issues, it was so refreshing to take a step out of the norm and try something with a bit less boyfriend drama and a little more lives-on-the-line drama.

A Note of Caution:

As I mentioned before, this one is not YA and deals with some darker content than most of what I review here. I didn’t think it got too graphic, and I’m a wimp when it comes to bloody stuff, but if you are sensitive to subjects like torture read with caution.

My Rating: 5/5

An action packed story of the fierce loyalty between brothers. Full of dynamic characters, snark, and man drama. Seriously can’t wait for the sequel!

Story Peddler Review

I picked this one up at last year’s Realm Makers on the recommendation of several friends. And as it won three awards at this years Realm Makers, it’s high time I write a proper review. Also, I got a pic with Lindsay at the awards banquet! Check out the Gallery and see her awesome Wonder Woman cosplay.

Synopsis: Tanwen doesn’t just tell stories-she weaves them into crystallized sculptures that sell for more than a few bits. But the only way to escape the control of her cruel mentor and claw her way from poverty is to set her sights on something grander: becoming Royal Storyteller to the king. During her final story peddling tour, a tale of treason spills from her hands, threatening the king himself. Tanwen goes from peddler to prey as the king’s guard hunts her down … and they’re not known for their mercy. As Tanwen flees for her life, she unearths long-buried secrets and discovers she’s not the only outlaw in the empire. There’s a rebel group of weavers … and they’re after her too.

Things I Love:

The magic system: This is what initially drew me to the book. Art itself is the magic. And not just the typical arts, but even healing and sword fighting. How unique is that?!
The creativity theme: This book has so much to say on God-given talent, the importance of self-expression, and creativity’s role in telling truth. It’s a theme that is very close to my heart and is an integral part of my own work. I was so stoked to find another author writing on these topics. And doing a superb job!
The weavers: There’s a found-family aspect to the Corsyth Weavers I just love. I’m a sucker for family/found-family stories. And the weavers specifically remind me of my own tribe of Realmies!
The world building: I love how everything in this world is instantly recognizable, but still has a fantastical element. There isn’t much time spent on exposition or setting. You jump right into the action and don’t ever struggle to keep up.

Things I Don’t Love:

Brac: Brac is a very problematic character. The romantic part of me really want’s to like him. He’s Tannie’s best friend and the closest thing she has to family. He’s a decent guy who really cares about her and doesn’t mean anyone harm. But the more logical part of me just can’t get over how dense he is. He’s constantly doing stupid things that put others in dangerous situations. More importantly, he’s never truly accepted Tannie for who she is. He loves her, but is determined to change her into what he sees as appropriate. And then he’s surprised when it drives her away.

My Rating: 5/5

Conclusion:

A wonderful story that instantly drew me in with its vibrant characters and engaging, fast-paced plot. This paired with an incredibly unique magic system and hard-hitting themes of truth in art make it a must read for creative types!

Romanov Review

I have always loved the story of Anastasia. The lost princess who finds her way home. I even went to see the Broadway production at the Fox in St. Louis over Christmas break. Which was amazing, by the way! But, similar to Fawkes, I have never looked into the true story behind the fairy tale. And then Nadine Brandes wrote Romanov, and I knew I couldn’t go without it!

Synopsis: The history books say I died. They don’t know the half of it. Anastasia “Nastya” Romanov was given a single mission: to smuggle an ancient spell into her suitcase on her way to exile in Siberia. It might be her family’s only salvation. But the leader of the Bolshevik army is after them, and he’s hunted Romanov before. Nastya’s only chances of saving herself and her family are either to release the spell and deal with the consequences, or to enlist help from Zash, the handsome soldier who doesn’t act like the average Bolshevik. Nastya has only dabbled in magic, but it doesn’t frighten her half as much as her growing attraction to Zash. She likes him. She thinks he might even like her. That is, until she’s on one side of a firing squad…and he’s on the other.

Things to Love:

No one is truly vilified. I really appreciated the fact that no group in this conflict was portrayed as fully evil. Even Rasputin, though he doesn’t make an appearance, is not portrayed as the creepy villain of the children’s movie. Instead, both the Romanov family and the Bolsheviks are shown as clearly flawed human beings with both good and bad inside them. My favorite example, of course, is Zash 😉
The family loyalty. I love a book with good family or found-family themes, and this one did not disappoint! It’s so heartwarming to watch the Romanov sisters pull together during such a hard time.
The magic system. Spell ink and magic hidden in dolls waiting to be spoken to life. It’s not very complicated and just makes my writer heart happy 🙂
Betrayal, Forgiveness, Redemption, Hope. These heavy themes are so well portrayed! Even in it’s darkest moments, the light shines through.

A Word of Caution:

As mentioned above, this is a HEAVY book. Unlike other versions of Anastasia, it’s not one to be picked up for light reading or to fall asleep to. This book will wreck you, in the best way, and you need to be emotionally prepared for that.

My Rating: 5/5

Nadine has woven so much truth into this one book. It’s heartrending and at the same time so uplifting and beautiful. I would say her best yet, but it’s hard to judge against the Out of Time series as they are such different books. So, ties for best yet 😛

*Side note: Go read Out of Time if you haven’t already! One of the best Dystopians I’ve ever read!*

Italy Trip and Indie Reads

Hi, everyone! I’ve been out for a while, so I just want to give a quick life update. Work is out for the summer and I just got back from a trip to Italy!

We spent about a week with lovely friends in Belluno and took day trips to the Dolomites (part of the Alps) and Verona! Highlight for me was, of course, Juliet’s house. Even though it was crazy crowded. I even tried a coffee. It was ok with enough sugar but I think I’ll stick with tea. Their hot chocolate, however, is amazing!

Now that I’m back, I’ve got to really crunch down on the writerly things. I’ll be giving my first pitch for To Slay a Curse at Realm Makers conference in about a month, and there’s tons of stuff to get ready by then. I’m freaking out a little, but really excited.

Now, on to what you’re really here for: books! I did get through two great indie reads during travel time and just want to give a mini review here.

If Wishes Were Curses by Janeen Ippolito

Janeen’s new series has all you could want in an Urban Fantasy: shifters, snark, mystery, and mayhem! What’s more, the sequel Wish You Weren’t Here just dropped!

Blurb: So, I accidentally killed a shifter. On purpose. With genie powers I shouldn’t be able to use, thanks to my curse-mark. In my defense, the damn grizzly was threatening civilians and might have been a vampire as well. Pittsburgh is safer without him. Only the Fae court doesn’t believe my story, and the shifters are out for blood. Now I’ve lost my job as a romantic investigator, and I’m on death row. My only hope is an oddly outgoing vegetarian vampire lawyer who seems strangely familiar. Too familiar. Almost like we’ve met before, and this whole thing was a set-up to take us both down. Wishing won’t get us out of this mess. But my forbidden wish magic just might.

The Electrical Menagerie by Mollie E. Reeder

If you like The Greatest Showman and Sherlock Holmes you will love this steampunk adventure! Can’t wait for the sequel slated to come out later this summer!

Blurb: The Electrical Menagerie, one-of-a-kind robotic roadshow, is bankrupt. Sylvester Carthage, illusionist and engineer, has the eccentric imagination the Menagerie needs to succeed creatively–but none of the people skills. Fast-talking Arbrook Huxley, meanwhile, has all the savvy the Menagerie needs to succeed commercially–but none of the scruples. To save their show, Carthage & Huxley risk everything in a royal talent competition, vying for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform for the Future Celestial Queen. In this stardust-and-spark-powered empire of floating islands and flying trains, The Electrical Menagerie’s bid at fame and fortune means weathering the glamorous and cutthroat world of critics, high society, and rival magicians–but with real conspiracy lurking beneath tabloid controversy, there’s more at stake in this contest than the prize. Behind the glittery haze of flash paper and mirrors, every competitor has something to hide…and it’s the lies Carthage & Huxley tell each other that may cost them everything.

Overall, both were thrilling fast-paced reads great for on the plane, at the beach, or just whenever!