Posts Tagged ‘fantasy’

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Today Vivi Barnes, Christina Farley, and Amy Christine Parker and Rockstar Book Tours are

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revealing the cover for THE THIEF OF TIME, their new middle grade contemporary fantasy

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book which releases May 7, 2024! Check out the awesome cover and enter the
giveaway!

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On to the reveal!

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THE THIEF OF TIME (The Library Of Alexandria Series #1)

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by Authors: Vivi Barnes, Christina Farley, and Amy Christine Parker

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Pub. Date: May 7, 2024

Publisher: Infinity House Creative

Formats:  Hardcover, Paperback, eBook

Pages: 312

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Find it: GoodreadsAmazon 

 

The Thief of Time is a
thrilling contemporary fantasy that will steal your breath away. Chock full of
complex world building and magic that springs from the power of story, this
book will definitely keep young readers turning pages.”—Polly Holyoke,
Award-winning author

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Unleash the Magic…

THE THIEF OF TIME is an exciting middle-grade contemporary fantasy adventure
that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the realms of magic,
friendship, and self-discovery.

On a visit to their local library,
Ben, Bridgette, and Maya unwittingly unleash a dragon from an ancient book and
find themselves fighting for their lives against a swarm of evil birds. They
battle to escape with the help of the dragon and are whisked through a portal
into the magical Great Library of Alexandria.

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Once they pass the Trials and prove
themselves worthy, they are invited to become students at Helicon Academy.
There they train to become librarians for the Library of Alexandria, protecting
books and the magical artifacts within.

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Ben, Bridgette, and Maya fall in love
with the story-themed dinners, fantastical animals, and fictional characters
roaming the halls. But when they discover a dark and sinister mystery within
the academy’s halls, the three must embark on a quest to protect the library
and preserve the fabric of time itself.

 

 

REVIEWS:

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“Every so often, you read a book with a fictional place
that is so full of magic and so full of wonder that you want to live there
forever — the library in The Thief of Time is such a place. You’re in
for a treat!” —Sarah Beth Durst, award-winning author of Spark

 

What a ride! The Thief of Time whisks readers from the
immortal Library of Alexandria to adventures across the globe. Maya, Ben, and
Bridgette kept me reading to the very end! —Sarah McGuire, author of Flight
of Swans
and Valiant

 

We all know books are magic, but in The Thief of Time,
they are beyond our expectations! This adventure jumps right in with our
protagonists facing an adventure, both physically and mentally, unlike any
other I’ve read. Fans of Land of Stories and magical school books are going to
devour this new twist on what it means to truly get into a book. —Kellee Moye,
librarian

 

 

Enjoy this peek inside:

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Chapter 1

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Polly Definitely Doesn’t Want a Cracker

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Ben

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The first weird thing Ben noticed was the birds. 

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Clustered in bushes around the front of the library, they
watched with unblinking beady red eyes as he made his way up the steps.

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“To be, or not to be…gone!” he said loudly, clapping his
hands at a pair that was preening on the steps in front of the door. They
hopped only a few inches away and fixed Ben with a baleful stare.

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Ben shook his head. Here he was, quoting Hamlet at
creepy birds and returning an almost-overdue book on a Friday night when there
were probably ten end-of-summer parties going on—or at least two that he was
invited to. 

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He yanked the door open and stepped inside. Mr. Lozano, who’d
been the town librarian ever since Ben could remember, was scanning barcodes
from a tall stack of books. 

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“Hey, Mr. Lozano.” Ben slid his book across the counter. 

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Mr. Lozano caught the book and added it to the stack. “Just
under the wire, Benjamin. Your dad wouldn’t be happy to come pay another late
fee.” 

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“I know.”

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Mr. Lozano picked up a magnifying glass to peer at the book.
With the plaid bow tie and pencil mustache, Ben thought he looked more like a
Scotland Yard detective than a librarian.

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Mr. Lozano peeled off the outside cover that was titled
“Practical Science.” Ben inwardly groaned. He meant to remove that before
returning it. Underneath the cover was a copy of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

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Mr. Lozano sighed. “Your father still giving you a hard
time?”

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Ben shrugged. His father was a surgeon and thought Ben should
be studying math and science, not “farting around with theater and poetry,” as
he liked to say. It was just easier for Ben to pretend he was more scientific
than he was.

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His mom would’ve understood him better. Not a day went by
where he didn’t think about her and wish she was with him again, reading
Shakespeare’s sonnets like she did when he was little. The gentle lilt of her
voice always lulled him to sleep.  

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“I know what you’re going to say,” Ben said. “I’ll talk to
him again, and—”

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“Mr. Lozano, that astronomy book isn’t here,” a girl
announced as she walked up and set a stack of books on the counter. She looked
familiar, maybe from school. She wore an old Texas Rangers baseball T-shirt and
had a short mop of auburn curls, pale skin, and thick round glasses that made
her green eyes seem extra-large. 

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She shrugged her oversized military-looking green backpack
off her shoulders and plopped it on the counter next to the books. “It was due
five days ago. I’ve been on the waiting list forever.” 

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“I’m sorry, Bridgette. I’m sure the person will bring it back
soon.” Mr. Lozano glanced at the clock over the desk. “Unfortunately, the
library’s closing so I can’t help you find something else right now.”

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“Can’t you call them? Fill out a police report or something?”

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“Excuse me.” Someone with two long dark braids squeezed
between Ben and Bridgette, her hands cupped around a small ball of fur. A
volunteer badge was clipped to the sleeve of her light blue shirt. “Mr. Lozano,
I think Griffin’s sick. I’m really worried about him.” 

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This girl Ben knew. Everyone knew Maya Friedman, who moved
here last summer from Israel and within a month of their sixth-grade year
became one of the most popular kids at Harrison Middle. Her braids had kind of
become her trademark. Ben hated to admit he was jealous, but no matter how many
times he’d styled his sandy blond hair or even dyed it, he’d failed to get a
trademark “look.” This girl showed up with two long braids and perfectly tanned
olive skin and everyone was like whoooooaaaa. 

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“Who’s Griffin?” Ben asked.

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“One of the library’s animals.” She held up a small ball of
brown fluff. “Does he look a little lethargic to you?” 

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Bridgette shrank away. “Keep it away!”

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Maya pulled it to her chest protectively. “He’s just a little
guinea pig. He won’t hurt you.”

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“I know.” Bridgette pushed her glasses up the bridge of her
nose. “Its scientific name is Cavia
porcellus
.” Her face flushed as Ben stared at her. “I read a lot.”

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“Poor Griffin,” Maya cooed to the ball of fluff. “That girl
didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.” 

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Bridgette frowned. “I didn’t mean to hurt his feelings. I’ve
just never been near one before.” She reached out and awkwardly patted its tiny
head with one finger. “Good boy.”

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Maya smiled at her, then glanced at Ben. “I think I know you
from English class. Ben, right?” 

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Ben nodded. “You’re Maya.”

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“And I’m Bridgette,” Bridgette said from the other side of
Maya. “I mean, if anyone wanted to know,” she added softly. 

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“No one wants to know,” another voice piped in.

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Ben cringed as the awful Davey Singleton swaggered over with
a group of his friends. Davey had been Ben’s nemesis ever since Ben was cast as
the lead in the third-grade rendition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and
ended up with a terrible case of stage fright, puking all over a kid in a tree
costume. Davey took over the role for the rest of the show and still delighted
in tormenting Ben about it. Worse, he seemed to beat out Ben for every lead
role since then.

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“Awww look, it’s Shakesfear,” Davey said. “Library’s
closing, Shakesfear. Go barf somewhere else.”

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Ben rolled his eyes. “Hang in there, Davey. One day, maybe
you’ll actually come up with something original.”

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“Hey, Maya, you going to Drew’s party?” one of the girls in
the group asked. “Davey’s ditching but you should come.”

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Maya brightened. “Sure, after I close up here.”

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“And, um, change shoes?” the girl said as she stared at
Maya’s scuffed black combat boots. “Where’d you get those?”

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Maya’s face reddened. “My aunt gave them to me when we left
Israel.”

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Ben got the feeling she never wore those boots in front of
her friends.

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“Sorry, you’re not invited,” the girl said to Bridgette as
she and her friends walked out the door, laughing.

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“Like I was interested anyway,” Bridgette mumbled, looking
away.

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“Lozano, we have to leave,” Davey said. “When are you going
to kick these nobodies out of here?” He pushed through the half-door of the
counter and came back with a brown leather suitcase.

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“Where are you going?” Ben asked.

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“None of your business.”

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“We’re fine, we’re fine.” Mr. Lozano glanced again at the
clock. “We have ten minutes.” He nodded at Ben, Bridgette, and Maya. “You kids
head home now. Library is closed. Maya, thank you
for taking such great care of the animals. And Bridgette, tomorrow maybe I can
help—”

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A loud crack sounded outside of the library. Everyone jumped.
Bridgette squealed and pushed closer to Ben, who was rubbing his ringing ears.

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“What was that?” Maya said, cradling the chirping Griffin
close.

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“Lightning?” Ben suggested.

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“It’s not even raining,” Bridgette pointed out.

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“Quiet.” Lozano held up a hand, frowning. 

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Something dark moved against the frosted glass of the front
door. Ben heard tiny scratching and tapping noises, which got louder and louder
until it sounded like hundreds of birds were trying to claw their way through
the door. 

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Ben covered his ears, his heart leaping into his throat as
the birds shrieked and screamed.

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Mr. Lozano yanked open the door to the circulation desk.
“Everyone, get behind the counter.” 

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“Don’t have to tell me twice!” Davey pushed through the
opening, almost knocking Bridgette over with his suitcase. 

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Another crash sounded at the door and more dark figures shot
past the frosted windowpane, bird silhouettes with feathers and crooked bills
that almost looked like creepy noses. 

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The door wobbled and shook as if someone was trying to get
inside but didn’t know how to use the handle.

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Mr. Lozano yelled into his phone, “They’re here! I don’t know
how. We need an R.E.R. team now!”

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He gestured to Ben and the others. “Gather round and take
hands. Now.”

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More banging at the door. Davey kept his hands on his
suitcase. Bridgette grabbed Ben’s hand, her eyes wide with fear. He squeezed
hers with a reassurance he didn’t really feel and felt Maya take his other one.
He really hoped his palms weren’t sweaty.

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Lozano glanced at the clock. “Hold on. And…now!”

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Everyone watched as Mr. Lozano stepped one foot into the
empty wastebasket next to the wall. 

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And waited. 

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Mr. Lozano pulled his foot out of the basket, then stepped in

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again. And again. 

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Ben cleared his voice. “Um, Mr. Lozano, you okay?”

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The librarian grabbed the phone, beads of sweat breaking out
across his forehead. “It isn’t working. We need a car!”

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With a loud smash, the glass in the door shattered, and large
black birds with creepy red eyes started clawing their way through the window
with long, almost fingerlike talons. Ben yelped and Bridgette screamed.

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“Into my office!” Lozano yelled as a flurry of black feathers
cascaded over them. “I’ll handle this.”

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The kids scrambled into Mr. Lozano’s office and slammed the
door behind them as birds thumped against its frosted glass. A single black
feather floated in. Ben grabbed it and shoved it in his pocket. “That’s one
less feather you’ll have to fight with,” he yelled at the door, not caring how
weird he sounded. This whole thing was terrifyingly weird.

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Ben turned around, realizing he’d never been in Lozano’s
office before. It was like something from another century—old bookshelves,
weird telescope-looking things, and ancient leather-bound books piled on a
table. A low humming sound seemed to be coming from them. Ben rubbed his
ears. 

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Screeching from right outside the office made Ben forget all
about the humming. The birds hurled against the window. Thump! Thump! Thump!
The glass started to crack. 

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“We need to hide.” Bridgette yanked her backpack onto her
shoulders. 

“Behind there!” Ben ran to the heavy oak desk on the far
wall. Bridgette and Maya followed. 

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Davey crouched behind a plush chair near the door, clutching
his suitcase. “Make them go away,” he whimpered.

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A crash sounded on the other side of the door. Ben clamped
his eyes shut, hoping Mr. Lozano was okay.

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“Griffin!” Maya cried out.

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Ben opened his eyes to see the guinea pig running at top
speed toward a crack in the wall. Maya started after him, but Ben grabbed her
arm. “He’ll be fine. We need to stay together.”

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The square glass window in the door shattered. Davey threw
his hands over his head as the birds flew directly at him. His screams pierced
the air. Ben gritted his teeth together. No matter how awful Davey was, Ben
couldn’t just hide like a coward while birds were trying to kill him. This
wasn’t a third-grade play. This was real.

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“We have to help him. Distract the birds,” Ben told Maya and
Bridgette. 

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“How?” cried Bridgette. “It’s not like we have bird seed.”

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“Hey!” Maya called out, standing up and waving her arms. 

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“What are you doing?” Bridgette yelled at her as birds flew
toward them. 

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Ben crawled across the floor to Davey, where a bird was
flapping over his head, poking him with its beak. He grabbed Davey’s suitcase
and threw it at the bird. The bird dodged it, shrieking.

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“Hey, that’s expensive,” Davey cried out. 

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“So’s our lives!” Ben yelled as more birds converged around
them. He grasped for the nearest book, an ancient one with a dragon etched into
the leather and the imprint of a harp-looking instrument stamped on it. Ben
flung it at the birds. The book landed with a thud on the ground, open. 

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Everything went completely still. 

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A gust of wind whooshed through the broken window and caught
the pages, turning them fast and then faster. The humming he heard earlier grew
louder in his ears. Ben gasped as sparks flew out of the pages like sparklers
on the Fourth of July.

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A column of fire-red flame shot up from the book. Something
huge, red, and terrifying burst from the center of it.

 

 

 

About Vivi Barnes, Christina Farley,
and Amy Christine Parker:

Vivi Barnes, Christina Farley, and
Amy Christine Parker
are
best friends who bonded over their love of telling stories and going on
adventures. They live in sunny Central Florida with their families, where
inspiration is just a beach day away.

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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Instagram

@amychristinepar

@christinaLFarley

@vivibarnes

 

 

TikTok

@AmyChristineParker

@ChristinaFarleyAuthor

@ViviBarnes82

 

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Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

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1 winner will receive a $25 gift card to the book vendor of their choice, International.

Ends March 14th, midnight EST.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the THE NIGHTMARE MACHINE by Tim White Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

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Check out my review and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

THE NIGHTMARE MACHINE

 by Tim White

 

 

Pub. Date: February 20, 2024

Publisher: Ocean Scribe Publishing

Formats:  Paperback, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 600

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Find it: Goodreadshttps://books2read.com/THE-NIGHTMARE-MACHINE

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Purchase the book directly from Tim! There’s also a prequel novella! 

 

What
is The Nightmare Machine? Think Silent Hill meets Inception and Monster
Hunter International
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Five millennia of suffering. A pilgrimage steeped in terror. Will her quest
bring redemption or only a false promise of salvation?

Bangor,
Maine. Sara Holcomb knows what she must do. Raised within a secret order
devoted to protecting humanity from a malevolent god, the dutiful
seventeen-year-old prepares for a terrifying expedition through a world of
nightmares. So when the time comes, she convinces three close friends to escort
her on a perilous journey to an otherworldly cathedral of bone and blood.

Transported
to a land of chaos and horror while they sleep, Sara wrestles with guilt at
bringing people she holds dear to this hell from which they may not escape. And
as vicious traps and pitiless creatures tear at their bodies and minds, the
honor-bound young woman fears they won’t be strong enough to complete the
mission that will preserve mankind.

 

MY REVIEW

The first thing that caught my attention was the stunning story displayed on the cover. Yes, it pulls you in, wanting to know this girl and her story. It’s absolutely perfect for what’s revealed inside. And the title. It’s also perfect. A teenage girl, descendant of a long line of Maidens, destined to save the world. She takes three friends as protectors into a hidden world. One filled with danger. Teeming with monsters worthy of your worst nightmares. To enter. They sleep. To survive. They awaken.

The first chapter sets up the intrigue. A typical girl. One with horrible nightmares. And hints of a family secret. I was hooked and remained that way through the entire story. Sara was an ordinary girl thrust into a horrific saga. Her character was so genuinely written and I really empathized with her. She had to face things a much older person might not have handled as well as she did.

Dylan was in love with Sara. But that wasn’t why she chose him as one of her protectors. He was a boy wonder. A budding genius and curious about how things worked. His mind worked in mysterious ways and she trusted him.

Dylan and Sara both helped Dr. Alex Warner at a small recovery clinic helping people overcome their addictions. I was unsure how that made her a good choice for a protector aside from knowing Sara and Dylan. Once they began their quest, it began clear.

Tom’s place on the list of protectors was obvious.  He was a veteran of war and had survived some horrific situations. He was no stranger to violence and death and his training made him a perfect candidate to work as a team. I really enjoyed his part in the story. He was someone you didn’t want to mess with yet he had a lot of baggage and that gave him an aura of vulnerability.

I tried to envision this nightmare world the group had entered. The author did a great job of showing it to me through words and my imagination did the rest.

As for how the story moved along. I mentioned the first chapter hooked me and kept me hooked. Well that’s true. And the characters sealed the deal for me. Along with the cruel world in The Nightmare Machine and the outrageous and dangerous monsters that were unleashed in it’s pages. Whoa. I do love monsters and there were some humdingers in the book.

Packed with action, suspense and horror, I was thrilled to get everything I wanted out of this story. That was great. And even more exciting. There’s more to come! Can’t wait for that.

5  STARS

 

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About Author Tim White:

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Tim White is
an author, editor, writing coach, and game designer in Phoenix, Arizona. He
started writing fiction in 1996 and nonfiction in 2006. As of 2023, he has
published more than 1,000 nonfiction articles and three nonfiction books. He
has written three novels, four novellas, dozens of tabletop role-playing game
(TTRPG) scripts, and hundreds of short stories.

Tim is a
zealous crusader for the power of storytelling to promote human flourishing. He
writes fiction in several genres, particularly one that he calls “Romantic
horror” (as in “Romantic-era novelists” such as Victor Hugo and Alexandre
Dumas, not as in “romance novel”). This little-known genre is unique in that it
uses fear as a backdrop against which heroism is sharply contrasted,
dramatized, and elevated.

Tim’s
storytelling philosophy is summed up eloquently by one of his favorite authors:

“I often
hear people say that they read to escape reality, but I believe that what
they’re really doing is reading to find reason for hope, to find strength.
While a bad book leaves readers with a sense of hopelessness and despair, a
good novel, through stories of values realized, of wrongs righted, can bring to
readers a connection to the wonder of life. A good novel shows how life can and
ought to be lived. It not only entertains but energizes and uplifts readers.” ―
Terry Goodkind

Before
transitioning to writing full time, Tim was an Army combat medic, and later, a
nurse paramedic specializing in trauma and surgery. He is a lifelong shooter
and has ranked moderately well in state-level 3-gun competitions. He loves
board games, video games, and role-playing games; cats; Pembroke Corgis; good
coffee; good books; and escape rooms. He owns an escape room venue in Arizona,
where he designs and builds every prop and puzzle in-house.

Sign up for one or all of Tim’s Newsletters!

Website | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

 

Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

 

Giveaway Details: (there are 2 giveaways)

Bargain Booksy Giveaway:

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One winner will be chosen at random on 4/15/2024 and notified via email
that they have won the 20 eBooks and a Kindle.

Giveaway Link: https://www.bargainbooksy.com/thriller-giveaway-021524/

Rockstar Book Tours Giveaway:

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours,
International.

Ends March 5th, midnight EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

2/19/2024

@darkfantasyreviews

IG Post

2/19/2024

Kountry Girl Bookaholic

Excerpt/IG Post

2/20/2024

jlreadstoperpetuity

IG Post

2/20/2024

Writer of Wrongs

Excerpt

2/21/2024

The Melting Plot

IG Post

2/21/2024

A Dream Within A Dream

Excerpt

2/22/2024

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt/IG Post

2/22/2024

GryffindorBookishnerd

IG Review

2/23/2024

Kim’s Book Reviews and Writing Aha’s

Review/IG Post

2/23/2024

@books.mo.reads

IG Review

 Week Two:

2/26/2024

Books and Zebras

IG Review

2/26/2024

@stargirls.magical.tale

IG Review

2/27/2024

@dana.loves.books

IG Review/TikTok Post

2/27/2024

Review Thick And Thin

Review/IG Post

2/28/2024

FUONLYKNEW

Review

2/28/2024

The Momma Spot

Review

2/29/2024

One More Exclamation

Review/IG Post

2/29/2024

Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

Review/IG Post

3/1/2024

Confessions of the Perfect Mom

Review/IG Post

3/1/2024

Country Mamas With Kids

Review/IG Post

 

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

The Secret of Sweet Treats Kingdom

by Kim Davis

 

(The Board Game Chronicles, #1)
Publication date: January 30th 2024
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Middle-Grade

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Book includes a fun recipe for kids!

Amber Addison is fed up with her kindergartener sister. It’s Ava’s fault she’s missing her best friend’s birthday party, the most anticipated event in their sixth-grade class. To make matters worse, Ava has coerced her into playing Sweet Treats board game and she keeps losing to a five-year-old. When Amber’s irritation gets the best of her, she throws the game, destroying it.

As the board disintegrates, the two girls are swept into a swirling vortex and they find themselves in the middle of Sweet Treats kingdom. Ava is kidnapped by an evil queen, and Amber finds herself relying on a mint-green rabbit to help her find her way to Bonbon Castle with the hope of finding her sister. Along the way, she encounters more sweets than she could ever eat along with fantastical beings. Some will become her friend and others create danger that she must survive in order to save her sister and find their way home.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

~~~~~

Enjoy this peek inside:

A rumbling sound filled my ears and the ground started tilting and rolling. The light hanging over the dining room table began swaying and the wood mini-blinds rubbing against the windows sounded like fingernails on a chalkboard.

“Amber?” Ava grabbed my hand and held on tight.

“Don’t worry. It’s just an earthquake.” Growing up in Southern California you got used to this kind of thing. “Remember what they taught you at school? Drop, cover, and hold on?”

I pulled her toward the dining room table to hide beneath it, although I was positive by the time we got into position the quake would be over.

We were ten steps away from the table when Ava stopped walking. She yanked my arm and started pulling me backward, toward the family room. I heard the crash of glass breaking on the kitchen tile and was glad I had flip-flops on. Our family portrait fell from the dining room wall, the glass splintering from the black frame sent shards of glass flying across the room. A small piece caught my ankle, sending a sting up my leg.

“Knock it off, shrimp. We need to get under the table right now!” While I had been in several earthquakes, this felt different. It wasn’t slowing or stopping, like I thought it would. I didn’t want to admit it, but I was scared. Could this be the “big one” grownups talked about?

Instead of letting me lead her toward the dining table, Ava began pulling me harder toward the family room. With my feet sliding on the slick tile, I couldn’t stop.

“What’s that?” I had never heard my sister screech like that before, so I turned around to see what she was talking about.

The small fragments of the Sweet Treats board game were hovering in midair, swirling in a circle, going faster and faster. The floor tilted us toward the flying pieces, and we were slipping toward the growing whirlwind. The edge of the vortex was expanding outward at a rapid rate, while the center was a dark, black hole. It looked like a giant vacuum hose, and it was sucking us toward it.

My terrified sister started screaming, clinging to my legs. “Do something, Amber!”

I started shrieking as I tripped over Ava, and we were pulled head first into the middle of the vortex.

.

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About Author Kim Davis:

Kim Davis lives in Southern California with her husband and mini Goldendoodle puppy, Missy. When she’s not spending time with her granddaughters or chasing the puppy around, she can be found either writing on her next book, or working on her blog, Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder, or in the kitchen baking up yummy treats to share.

She also writes the Cupcake Catering cozy mystery series, the Aromatherapy Apothecary Mystery series, The Board Game Chronicles middle grade series, and a suspense novel, A Game of Deceit, written under K. A. Davis, along with several children’s nature articles in a variety of magazines.

Kim Davis is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub

 

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

.

Today Chantal Gadoury and Rockstar Book Tours


are revealing the cover for UNTIL THE LAST PAGE, her new fantasy romance book which


releases August 6, 2024!

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Check out the awesome cover and enter the giveaway!

 

On to the reveal! 

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Title: UNTIL THE LAST PAGE

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by Chantal Gadoury

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Pub. Date: August 6, 2024

Publisher: Inimitable Books

Formats: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 280

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Find it: Goodreadshttps://books2read.com/UNTIL-THE-LAST-PAGE

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Pre-order UNTIL THE LAST PAGE from Inimitable
Books and receive a FREE gift!

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Discover what happens when a young woman
unexpectedly finds herself inside a book of fairytales where she is charged
with breaking a frog prince’s curse and searching for a way home.

Every good fairytale begins with “Once Upon a Time,” or
they’re supposed to at least. But for twenty-five year old Josephine Hart, her
Once Upon a Time” began with her literally crash
landing inside a book of fairy tales and nearly crushing a frog—who is actually
a prince. An annoying, snarky frog prince named Aneurin, seeking the kiss of
true love to break his curse. He vows that if Jo agrees to help him find his
princess, he will get her home.

With every turn of the page, their adventure leads them deeper into fairytales
familiar to Jo. Through their journey, they discover that despite their initial
clashing, they’re both exactly what each other needs. It is only when they
encounter a devious man with a talent for spinning straw into gold that they
realize just how quickly their plot can take an unexpected twist.

 

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Enjoy this peek inside Until the Last Page:

 

“Surely, you must be from the southern lands. Just look at your attire,” the frog continued,
lifting a small hand towards me.

I couldn’t help but notice the way his knobby little fingers were webbed together. I slid
my gaze down to my white knotted top and jeans shorts before lifting my eyes
back to the frog.

The creature’s eyes remained transfixed on me, as if I was the one from a foreign
country.

            “These are my clothes.”

            “As I can see. Such attire must come from the Southern Lands,” it replied before adding, “where the peasants get their clothes from the rag bin.” 

Now, this animal was just offensive. 

            You’re a frog,” I retorted, as though that should have been enough to refute his insult. This was
going on record as one of the most bizarre dreams I’d ever had in my life. As a
child, I’d always dreamed of possessing the ability to speak with animals, just
as nearly every fairytale princess could. But this…this was not what
I imagined—a creature of such small, slimy stature, commenting so rudely on my
attire.

            “For now,” he responded. “And you’re just a girl who nearly drowned me.” 

            “I thought the water would help you,” I replied quickly, biting the inside of my cheek. 

The frog crossed its arms against its chest. It was weird that he not only talked like a
human, but acted like one, too. 

            “As I said, I nearly drowned thanks to you,” the frog scowled. 

            “Well, I’m sorry,” I quipped, rolling my eyes. I couldn’t believe I was having this conversation, with a frog, nonetheless. 

            “Perhaps we could start with
introductions,” the frog continued, rising to his feet. Unable to hide my
astonishment at his ability to stand on two legs, I just stared. 

            “Uhh…” 

“Is that your way of agreeing?” he asked. “Or is that your name?” 

“I’m not giving you my name,” I replied, shaking my head. 

            “And why not?” 

            “It doesn’t really matter, does it?” I looked down at him, incredulous. 

The frog frowned at my hesitation. “Have you forgotten it?”

“No, I haven’t forgotten it,” I snapped, shaking my head.  

 

About Chantal:

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Chantal
Gadoury is a best selling fairytale-retelling and romance author, living in the
beautiful countryside of Muncy, Pennsylvania with her mom and family yorkie,
Taran.

When Chantal isn’t pursuing her next writing endeavor, she enjoys spending time
with her loved ones, and taking long walks to the sounds of BTS. She is a
TikTok enthusiast, loves all things Disney and loves a good, romantic K-Drama.

Chantal first started writing stories at the age of seven and continues that
love of writing today. After graduating from Susquehanna University with a
degree in Creative Writing, writing novels has become a dream come true. 

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for Descendants Of Atlantis organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Author Courtney Davis will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B&N Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Don’t forget to enter!

And you can click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Descendants Of Atlantis

by Courtney Davis

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Genre: Fantasy Romance

Synopsis

Sorcha is a descendant of the Atlantean people, a race of humans who were once the blood slaves of the vampires of Atlantis. She grew up knowing that the vampires were enemies, the werewolves were beasts, and the witches were their friends. When she starts to question the situation her clan has been put into with the witches, a vampire who haunts her erotic dreams comes to the rescue. Samson didn’t grow up in Atlantis and didn’t choose to become a vampire. He hates what he has to do to survive, and can’t imagine ever deserving love. When he finds a Descendant of Atlantis near death and nurses her back to health, he expects her to run at the first opportunity. When she offers him her willing body, he knows he would do anything to keep her, and that means hiding his monstrous side. But you can’t love someone if you’re hiding part of yourself. One look at Samson and Sorcha knows she erased him from her memory on purpose, but why? What could he have done to make her risk such a dangerous spell? With battle on the horizon and Descendants in trouble, will Sorcha’s memories be the end of any chance at Samson’s happiness, or will it lead to a new understanding of what these monsters really are?

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Don’t worry, I’m the biggest predator in this ocean,” he grinned and flashed his fangs.

It should have scared her she supposed, but all it did was make her tingle with anticipation. What was wrong with her?

He pushed the boat back toward land, then pulled her in for a kiss, seeming to have no trouble staying afloat. She felt a rise of panic as the boat drifted away.

“Katherine, I will always keep you safe,” he promised and took her hand. “Now, follow me, we will swim fast and hard, straight down. The vortex will start to pull and when it does, things will go fast.”

“You won’t let go of me?”

“Of course not,” he promised. “Now, take a deep breath.”

She did, and then they were underwater and against every instinct, she was letting him drag her down toward the bottom. Soon her lungs began to burn, and panic swelled and just when she thought the panic might be too much, she felt a pull all over her body, a push behind her and a sucking in front. She was thrown through the water so fast she couldn’t have stopped it if she’d wanted to. She stopped swimming and clung to Ian’s arm with both hands. Her mind started to fuzz, she was desperate for air, and she was sure he was wrong.

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About Author Courtney Davis:

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Courtney Davis is an author of urban fantasy/paranormal/supernatural fiction with a little romance and humor thrown in. She loves creating worlds and exploring human, and inhuman, interaction. She lives in North Idaho with her husband and children where she teaches and enjoys time spent relaxing in the summer sun and winters by the fire. She has always had an affinity for reading and writing and a goal to make a career of it. There is no greater joy than to know her words took a reader out of reality for a time and into another world.

Author Links: Website / 5 Prince Books / Facebook / Instagram

BookBub / Twitter / TikTok / Goodreads

Purchase Links: Amazon / B&N / ITunes / Kobo / SW / Google Play /

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Dive into this fast-paced, suspenseful Sci-Fi fantasy novel that melds sizzling romance, action, heart-stopping horror, and a high-stakes battle to save humanity.

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Changing Tide

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by Robert Joncas

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Genre: YA SciFi Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Horror

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Changing Tide,” 2023 Book Awards:

*Maincrest Media Award, Winner, YA Fiction (2024)

*Outstanding Creator Awards, Best Fiction Book of 2023, 2nd Place

*Outstanding Creator Awards, Fantasy (1st Place), Sci-Fi (1st Place), Romance (2nd Pl.)

*The Global Book Awards, Bronze Medal, Science Fiction – Romance

*The BookFest Awards, Silver Medal, Science Fiction – Romance
*The BookFest Awards, Bronze Medal, Fantasy – Contemporary & YA – Science Fiction

*Royal Dragonfly Awards, Honorable Mention, Best Cover, Sci-Fi, Fantasy & YA Fiction

*American Fiction Awards, Finalist, Romance – Paranormal: Supernatural
*American Writing Awards, Finalist – Science Fiction
*Halloween Book Festival, YA Horror – Honorable Mention
*Literary Titan Book Award – August 2023

A wild adventure that takes you on a journey from the California coast to the depths of the Grand Canyon. Dive into this fast-paced, suspenseful Sci-Fi fantasy novel that melds sizzling romance, action, heart-stopping horror, and a high-stakes battle to save humanity.

After her father’s tragic death, eighteen-year-old Skye Conner and her mom visit her Nana on the California coast. There, Skye stumbles across a mystical conch shell in the surf. Suddenly her dull, empty life takes on a thrilling and terrifying turn.

Skye has had to endure a despondent mother drowning in grief, living in a private world of darkness. Nana is a feisty, intelligent, take-no-bull grandmother with a flaming sense of pride and heart of gold. Then comes a handsome, mesmerizing alien on a mission to save the Earth. But are his intentions sincere, or does he have another agenda?

Skye has finally found someone to love, but can he be trusted? Changing Tide is a witty, original page-turning thriller that will make you look at First Contact in a whole new way.

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Amazon * B&N * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Chapter I

First Contact

 

I never thought anyone close to me would die. I know it seems unrealistic because, sooner or later, we all die. But dying is supposed to happen in the future, like getting old. When you’re eighteen, you shouldn’t have to think about death. The idea of death takes you to a dark place where no one young ever wants to be.

 

It was the second week of June, and the first faint evidence of dawn trickled into the room. I pulled the curtain back, and fog blanketed the beach, darkening my mood. But then, a peculiar light shone from the shoreline in the distance, casting an eerie glow, like a beacon, in the mist.

I pulled a pink tee shirt from the closet and grabbed a pair of shorts from the pine dresser. Finally, I jerked a purple hoodie over my head, slipped on my flip-flops, and ran outside.

The strange light in the distance glowed like a full moon on a cloudy night. I crossed the beach and drifted in that direction. The long lines of white waves that swept across the shore glowed with a warm, radiant light. I kicked off my sandals at the shoreline, treading barefoot in the cold surf. Shivering, I clutched the sweatshirt tight around my neck. The ocean swirled around my ankles. I felt tiny shells and bits of seaweed in the ribbed sand under my feet.

Last week, after my high school graduation, Mom and I had flown from Phoenix to Nana’s house in Crescent Cove, a small tourist town on the California coast. It was a two-hour flight from Phoenix to Sacramento, then another forty-five minutes in a small plane to the nearest airport. It would have been almost ten hours in the car had we driven. Unfortunately, Mom was in no condition to help me drive, so Nana said she would pick us up at the airport.

By the time we picked up our luggage, Nana was waiting outside the terminal in her old VW van. The trip was hard on Mom. Dark circles of exhaustion were under her eyes, and her hair hung in matted strings against her pale cheeks. She collapsed into the front seat while Nana helped me load the baggage into the back of the van.

When we drove up to the house, I knew it right away, even though it had been five years since I’d last been there. The red shutters and gray wood shingle siding looked the same as I remembered. I knew the inside would smell of lemon polish, and everything would be spotless and scrubbed.

Without seeing it, I knew the old back deck would be the same: weathered but sturdy and always covered in sand. I could picture Dad grilling and sipping beer while Mom and I watched the waves crash on the shore. I had hoped coming here would be a distraction, but memories of Dad continued to flood my mind.

My stomach ached as I remembered the heavy black dress I wore to Dad’s funeral on that scorching day in Phoenix. The air was sizzling, too hot. I’d had to take deep breaths to keep from passing out. Although a canopy shaded the gravesite, the temperature was over 100 degrees. I ached with grief that I couldn’t at least see Dad one last time — to make sure it was really him who’d died in that horrible accident. The burning car wreck left his body unidentifiable. The funeral home cremated what was left of his remains.

As I followed the light through the surf, the sea surged with a rolling wave that knocked me over. It was as if something had stirred below the ocean and was rising from the deep. I threw my hands out to break my fall but landed in the shallows on my butt. I sat motionless in the surf, shivering in my wet clothes…

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What readers are saying:

“…simply elegant…from the plotline to the characters to the action to the humor… (and) a story for anyone, young adult or adult, who enjoys a good science fiction novel with some romance thrown in. I would recommend the book to everyone.”

-FEATHERED QUILL BOOK REVIEWS

“…truly a breath of fresh air! …A sci-fi romance like this was exactly what we needed. …despite dealing with things like loss, coping, and mourning this book is surprisingly fun and lighthearted…reading like a Disney script.”

-OUTSTANDING CREATOR REVIEW

“Anyone who enjoys sci-fi horror thrillers will find plenty to love about this book.”

-READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK REVIEW

“I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent reading this book and was genuinely sad when it came to an end.”

-ONLINEBOOKCLUB.ORG REVIEW

“…an enthralling fantasy novel that immerses readers in Skye Conner’s captivating journey…”

-LITERARY TITAN

“…traverses science fiction, fantasy, horror, and mystery seamlessly, entertaining you with thrills galore.”

-READERS’ CHOICE BOOK REVIEW

“Nothing is as it seems… a speculative sci-fi page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. …brings in sci-fi and fantasy elements of magic seashells and aliens to create a call to adventure.”

-INDEPENDENT BOOK REVIEW

–snippet of a review from OnlineBookClub.org–

Robert Joncas has crafted a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is well-balanced, and the author’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions is commendable. Skye’s character development is particularly noteworthy, as readers witness her transformation from a grieving and vulnerable girl into a brave and determined young woman.

….Changing Tide is a remarkable book that grabs the reader’s attention from the very first page. With its compelling characters, intriguing plot twists, and seamless blending of genres, it is a true page-turner. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment spent reading this book and was genuinely sad when it came to an end. Without a doubt, I highly recommend picking up Changing Tide by Robert Joncas and awarding it a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars.

–snippet of a Review from Literary Titan–

In “Changing Tide,” Robert Joncas masterfully entwines an evocative narrative of a young girl, Skye, wrestling with her personal turmoil while being swept into a journey far beyond her understanding. Haunted by cryptic dreams and grappling with the tragic loss of her father and her mother’s spiraling depression, Skye’s world is painted with a brush of melancholy. However, a glimmer of hope emerges as she rekindles a connection with Paul, an alluring figure from her past, previously known for his childhood mischief.

Robert Joncas showcases an exceptional ability to portray raw emotions and delicate sentiments. His narrative is an intricate tapestry of romance, familial bonds, suspense, and an unmistakably human touch enveloped in a mantle of science fiction. The characters are vividly constructed, each contributing a unique hue to the narrative palette. Nana, Skye’s vivacious and fearless grandmother, was a particular standout, embodying a captivating blend of loyalty and audacious spirit.

The narrative is particularly successful in illustrating Skye’s internal struggle – her battle against emotional turmoil and her hesitant forays into new friendships. The character development of the alien entity is equally commendable, with its adaptation and backstory revealed in a layered, compelling manner.

Changing Tide” is a warmly recommended read, particularly for young adults who yearn for a slice of relatable, yet enchantingly fantastic, reality. This novel embodies the essence of heartfelt storytelling interlaced with an adventurous spirit, ensuring a riveting reading experience.

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Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

I have always read books since I was a kid. I knew that eventually I would write a novel.

 

What is something unique/quirky about you?

I have always believed in reincarnation. Even as a kid, I could not relate to other children my age. I have always felt like an old soul.

 

What are some of your pet peeves?

People that need a lot of attention. I am never bored; I always have something to do or somewhere to go.

 

Where were you born/grew up at? 

I was born in Colchester, England and grew up in Southern California. It was nice to be able to go from the mountains to the beach in one weekend. I also liked the mild weather.

 

Who is your hero and why?

I don’t really have one person as a hero. I admire people that struggle to succeed. It’s easy to give up.

 

What kind of world ruler would you be?

Compassionate.

 

What are you passionate about these days?

My work and writing. I am a Real Estate Broker and sell mostly second home mountain resort properties. Lots of people in Phoenix want to get out of the heat in the summer. I sell to a lot of teachers and retired folk. I enjoy what I do.

 

What do you do to unwind and relax?

I did a lot of skiing and backpacking. Now I’m getting older I enjoy traveling and writing. I spent the last few years during COVID finishing my novel.

 

Describe yourself in 5 words or less!

Stress free, laid back.

 

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I had a short story published a few years ago in an anthology of International Writers. It was about a girl that bought an old muffin pan at a thrift store and the muffins she baked in it killed people.

 

Do you have a favorite movie?

I would have to say “Silence of the Lambs” is one of my top 10.

 

Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?

Haha! I only have one out. Changing Tide would make a great movie. Also, it wouldn’t break the bank to cast it.

 

As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

I guess it would have to be an alien. One of the greys, like in my book.

 

Stuff about the Book: 

What inspired you to write this book?

It started out as a short story I wrote for my granddaughter when she was twelve. Skye was also twelve and it was about 6,000 words long.

 

What can we expect from you in the future?

A sequel to Changing Tide. I never thought it would take off like it did and get great reviews. I left it open for a sequel just in case.

 

Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?

I felt sorry for Karly. She didn’t deserve to get hurt the way she did in the book.

 

Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Changing Tide?

In the beginning Skye has just graduated from high school but has had a tough time dealing with her father’s death and her mother’s depression. Her world has come crashing down on her. When she goes to visit Nana at the beach for the summer everything changes. Skye finds a conch shell that has an alien entity inside it. This sets in motion a series of events that change her life.

Skye’s grandmother (Nana) is a knowledgeable, aging hippy that doesn’t take any bull but has a heart of gold. She’s a loveable character. I don’t want to say too much about Paul. It would give away some of the story.

 

How did you come up with the concept and characters for the book?

I originally fashioned Skye after my granddaughter, Kaylee. Because I wrote the short story for her. Nana is every gutsy older woman that doesn’t care what they say or do. I rounded her out with a witty gentle side and lots of empathy. You can’t help but love Nana.

 

Where did you come up with the names in the story?

I liked the name Sky, but added an e. My mom was always called Nana by my son and granddaughter since she was from England. I used Paul because it was a common name but not old fashioned.

 

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

Not knowing where I was going with the story. I didn’t have an outline. I’m a pantser (writing by the seat of my pants). I wrote two alternate endings and through them out to my writing class and they chose the ending.

 

How did you come up with the title of your first novel?

The original short story was called “The Seashell.”  It sounded too bland for a novel. “Changing Tide” addresses the sea and the change that Skye goes through in the book.

 

Who designed your book cover?

I hired a company in Phoenix, 1106 Design to do the book layout. They sent me cover samples, but I had a different idea for the cover. I wanted something that grabbed the reader when they were searching for a book. I had my Real Estate photographer Barbara Sherman helped me design the cover. Barbara also does photography for the schools in Flagstaff. The background on the cover are some rocks in Buckskin Gultch, up by the Grand Canyon. The crow with the one blue eye is symbolic with the story and the conch shell sits on my desk in my office.

 

Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Since this is my first novel, I learned writing isn’t as easy as I thought. I also learned that I edited too much while I wrote. The next novel I will concentrate more on getting the story down and worry about the editing when it’s completed.

 

If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

I hadn’t though about Skye, but I would like to see Kathy Bates play Nana.

 

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Hello everyone!

 

What is your favorite part of this book and why?

I like the fast pace and adventure of the Grand Canyon. It’s a wild ride and it was fun to write.

 

If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?

I’d like to have lunch with Nana. I would also like to sit down with the alien and talk about life and the universe.

 

Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?

None of my characters are based on one specific person. They are a combination of personalities of people I have known.

 

Convince us why you feel your book is a must read.

Because of the good reviews and I am an avid reader and each time I had to read through it while it was being edited, I fell in love with it. Another reason, my friends Kathy and Kevin. Kathy read my manuscript and told Kevin about it. Kevin hasn’t read a book in almost 20 years. He couldn’t put it down.

 

What did you edit out of this book?

I edited out some of the cuss words. Originally Nana was throwing F bombs throughout the book. I realized that I wanted to clean it up so that it would be acceptable for younger people. I left a few cuss words though. When I edited Nana’s mouth, I realized I liked her a whole lot more.

 

Stuff about Writing/ Reading: 

 

What book do you think everyone should read?

There are so many but “The Stand” by Stephen King and “Swan Song” by Robert McCammon left a big impression on me. It’s funny because the story lines are similar in both novels.

 

How long have you been writing?

About ten years.

 

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?

I had the characters in my mind before I wrote the book. They were in my short story.

 

What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?

In “Changing Tide” I had to research the Hopi’s legend of the Ant People. Also, a lot of research on archeology and astronomy. Even though I have a science degree, it’s been a while since I’ve been in school. I also wrote a lot of the end of the book at the Grand Canyon. It’s not far from where I live.

 

Do you see writing as a career?

I would like to.

 

Do you read yourself and if so what is your favorite genre?

I am a member of the Horror Writer’s Association. I like horror and fantasy. I also like crime and mystery novels. I read a lot. I have also read a lot of YA novels in the last few years as research for this book.

 

Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?

I like to write with music in the background. My favorite is soft rock, like Linda Ronstadt or Stevie Nicks, and to be fair to the guys, I like to listen to Cat Stevens and Paul Simon when I write. I like all kinds of music, but I need mellow to concentrate while writing.

 

What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?

As an avid reader I though, I could do that. Write a novel. So, I did. I just wish I had done it sooner. But I also realize that it’s hard when you have a full time job, family, etc.

 

Advice they would give new authors?

Start when you are young and be patient. If it takes ten years just plug away at it. If you stick with it you will end up with a novel.

 

Describe your writing style.

I looked at many novels through the eyes of a writer instead of a reader. What makes them good? What sells them besides the story? I found that James Patterson is so popular because his novels have short chapters. It’s an easy read. You can read him on break at work or while on the bus or airport. So, I made my chapters short. I also made the font larger. I listened to what other readers said. People don’t like to squint when they read a book with tiny font.

 

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

I feel my story is original. I tried to find something similar but there are not a lot of alien romance books that are similar to mine. I’d have to say it’s sort of like Twilight with aliens instead of vampires.

 

What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters from the opposite sex?

It was hard to write Skye in the beginning. I had lots of help from the women in my class and coworkers. When I finally got the hang of an eighteen-year-old girl, Skye took off. I also had help from my mentor, the Author Lynn Hightower. She would critic my chapters.

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Robert grew up in Southern California and has worked as a Real Estate Broker in Flagstaff, AZ, for many years. He has a BS in Health Science and graduated with Distinction from the prestigious UCLA Writers’ Program, where he studied under Author Lynn Hightower in her Master Novel Classes. He is a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors and the Horror Writers Association.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

In the Shadow of a Dream

by Maci Aurora

 

(Fareview Fairytales, #3)
Publication date: January 30th 2024
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance

With the promise of finally learning her mother’s secrets, Brinna Fareview and her family gather together. Only somewhere between the truth and lies, Brinna wakes to find she’s trapped in a space in between the world awake and the nightmares of her family. All of them are asleep. Learning she has the ability to move from dream to dream, Brinna tries to find a way out of the dream world, but she’s stuck, unable to fix what’s ailing her family. But then an unexpected thing happens, Lucian Uraiahs, god of day and light, walks into her dream.

While Lucian decided a long time ago that Brinna Fareview was a blight on his peace, he can’t seem to avoid her. She pops up at every turn, all because his brother is god-yoked to her sister. All Lucian wants is to disappear into the oblivion of the cosmos amidst his shame and guilt, but the unbidden feelings he has for Brinna can’t be contained. When Lucian is stripped of his powers for refusing to bend to his father’s will, he is imprisoned with only his guilt to keep him company. Except when he falls asleep, he dreams of Brinna and somehow becomes the only link to saving her, her family, and his brother from a spell that could destroy them all.

Brinna and Lucian must work together to uncover the secrets they need to break the sleeping spell, but the longer they share their dreams, the more they realize time is against them.

Join the Fareviews in book three of the Fareview Fairytales series, In the Shadow of a Dream, to discover the truth that has them trapped behind the hedge.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Luc grumbled and turned back to look at the hedge once more, walking its length when he heard women’s voices—sweet and lilting—coming from inside. He stepped back, searching for the elusive entrance.

“Remember when we were talking to Tarley the other day? About the man in the woods?” Aurielle—he knew her voice—replied.

“So romantic…” the other said, her voice soft and whimsical. Which left only two possibilities: Luc’s woodland fairy or the other sister, the one with the dark, soulful eyes. “Why are we doing this again?” she asked.

He wondered which one was with Aurielle and suppressed any hope it might be his singer.

“Well, I’ve met someone.” Aurielle snapped the words, because the other one seemed to be antagonistic about being dragged out into the woods.

He grinned at their bickering. Relatable.

“I have so many questions! You’ve been behind the hedge since–” The sister’s voice cut off abruptly, then she shouted, “The Great Nap Escapade?”

“So,” Aurielle said, drawing out the word, “you’re doing this for true love. And I promise, Brin, you won’t have to wait long.”

[…]There were words spoken Luc couldn’t discern, followed by Aurielle bursting from the hedge. She called out for Nix and disappeared across the road through the bramble.

“What if someone comes?” Brinna called, then groaned. “Annoying.”

He was going to talk to her! He swallowed as he thought about what to say. “Couldn’t agree more.” Luc couldn’t see her; she was still hidden within the hedge.

She gasped. “Who’s there?”

“The brother.”

Her head—like a disembodied apparition—appeared from the hedge, turning to look for him.

When she saw him, her eyes widened. It was the first time he realized her eyes were gray. “Whose brother?”

He hummed but said, “Since we’re both on lookout duty, we could make it interesting.” “Who are you, exactly?” she asked, stepping from the hedge.

Luc’s breath stopped up, caught up by both disbelief and utter excitement. […] “There you are,” Luc said, finally finding his voice.

She demanded his name.

“Lucian,” he said, turning slightly toward her, his shoulder leaning against the hedge—a terrible choice. He straightened and wiped the leaves from his shoulder.

“And you’re not here to meet my sister?”

“Stars, no,” he said, allowing himself to truly look at her as he shook his head, grateful, suddenly, that Nix asked him to be his unnecessary companion. “That would be my brother. Come closer.” He gave her a slight grin. “I don’t bite. Usually.”

Her eyes narrowed. “I’m fine right here, thank you.”

“You know my name, which gives you power. Will you not offer the same?” Though he already knew it, he wanted her to offer it freely.

“Brinna,” she replied and disappeared back into the hedge.

“Wait,” Luc called. “Where did you go?” The hedge didn’t have an entrance. “Where are you?” “Here,” she whispered, as if daring him to find her. Despite the low volume, her voice reached him, and he wondered, strangely, if it always would.

He used his godlight to sneak through the magical threads of the hedge, and his arms passed through, allowing him to grasp Brinna. Using her as leverage, he pulled himself inside.

She squealed—a cute little sound that seemed as if she was trying to be quiet about it—and stumbled into him, her palms pressed against his chest. Heat seared his skin underneath his clothes where her hands rested.

“What are you doing?” she demanded. “Unhand me.”

He did. Immediately. Swiping his hands over the place she’d touched to wipe away the sensation.

He hated the added impulse of wanting to wrap her up in his arms.

Ridiculous. He told himself he was curious about this hedge, given he’d never seen anything like it on his Roam.

He walked deeper into an arched passageway that stretched out in front of him with no end in sight, as if it curled in on itself. Surprised by the muted light inside, Luc glanced over his shoulder, where Brinna now stood framed by an arched entrance.

She followed him. “What is wrong with you?”

His internal glow warmed the darkness inside the hedge so he could see her features, which pinched with her frown. He wanted to press his thumb against her mouth, run the pad of it across her lips, but he swallowed the urge instead and looked away.

“If I keep walking, what will I find?” he asked, ignoring her question for one of his own.

“The cottage. Where I live.” She paused, then said, “You truly couldn’t see me? That seems… unbelievable.”

He hummed and looked around. “Perhaps if it wasn’t enchanted.”

“Enchanted!” She scoffed, an unflattering kind of snort, but Luc found it… cute. “You must be mistaken.”

He snorted back at her, incredulous. “I am not mistaken. Not about this.”

“You don’t make mistakes?” She offered a sharp laugh.

He’d begun to think this—trapping himself in proximity to her—was one. “Absolutely not,” he lied. The very large mistake in his immediate past had nearly cost him his brother, but she didn’t need to know about that.

“I highly doubt that.” She crossed her arms, her dark eyebrows arching over her pretty eyes. “Now, why are you glowing?”

“Why is this hedge enchanted?” he countered, realizing he should have doused his godlight so his father wouldn’t know, but he didn’t with her attention finally fixed on him.

They stood facing one another, the hedge seeming to close in around them. He only needed to take a step, and he’d be close enough to draw her into his arms, lean forward, and kiss her. The shrinking hedge and his overpowering urge to touch her made him feel like he couldn’t take a deep enough breath.

“How do you get out of here?” The shrinking hedge unnerved him, even if it was an illusion…Then he realized he couldn’t see the opening any longer. It had disappeared. He was trapped.

“I need to go,” he gasped.

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About Author Maci Aurora:

Romance author.

Lover of stories.

Maci Aurora has been writing stories since she was a child. When she was eleven, she fell in love with reading Sunfire Historical Romances about girls who made a difference in their lives and still fell in love. In high school, a friend introduced her to Lavyrle Spencer and Judith McNaught, and from there, her writing journey was cemented in telling stories about love. Having already published many novels (all of which are threaded with romance as upper YA and New Adult titles) under the pen name, CL Walters, Maci Aurora wanted to write stories that offered the same attention to story and characters but with additional steam.

Maci writes in Hawaiʻi where she lives with her husband, their children, and their fur-babies.

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Welcome to my stop on the THE SELKIE’S DAUGHTER by Linda Crotta Brennan Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

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Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

 

THE SELKIE’S DAUGHTER

Author: Linda Crotta Brennan

 

 

Pub. Date: January 2, 2024

Publisher: Holiday House

Formats: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 208

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Find it: Goodreadshttps://books2read.com/THE-SELKIES-DAUGHTER

 

A cozy, richly imagined fantasy where a young selkie girl must save her
family from a vengeful king.

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Brigit knows all the old fisherman songs and legends by heart: sea goddess,
warriors, and people who are not quite human. But Brigit also knows the truth.
It’s evident in the webbing between her fingers–webbing that must be cut.
She’s the daughter of a selkie. A truth she must keep secret from everyone.

But there is another secret growing in the village. A terrible one that will
invite the wrath of the Great Selkie, bringing storm, sickness, and death. To
protect those she loves, Brigit must find a way to Sule Skerrie, the land of
selkies, to confront the Great Selkie and bring the truth—all of it—into the
light.

Like sitting by a warm fireplace, The Selkie’s Daughter is an
imaginative fantasy, steeped in Celtic mythology and set in Nova Scotia. Debut
Linda Crotta Brennan has crafted a magical portrait of a brave girl coming into
her own. Perfect for fans of mermaids and Studio Ghibli-esque stories.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

 

 

 

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Excerpt from The Selkie’s Daughter / Text copyright © 2024 by Linda Crotta Brennan. Reproduced with permission from Holiday House Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. 

 

1

 

I swim as selkie on the sea.

And when I’m far and far frae land,

My home it is in Sule Skerrie.

 

The wild wind keens across the spruce barrens, rattling the windows of our cottage on Finn’s Point. Shivering, I splay my hand across the cutting board. Newborn veils of skin, blue-­pale and tender, connect my fingers.

 

Cousin Alys sharpens her knife against a stone, tests the edge, then, satisfied, turns to me. I kneel and hide my face in Mum’s woolen lap, breathing its com-forting smokiness.

 

Mum strokes my hair. “Ready, Brigit?”

 

I nod, though my insides roil. Mum’s hands are fully human, why not mine? Why should I be marked and not Mum?

 

At the last second, I try to jerk away, but Alys grips my wrist like a vise. Her blade comes down.

 

Pain sears me. I suck in my breath and my vision narrows. Clinging to consciousness, I focus on the wind, throaty with alien voices. My blood pulses out, a salty sea washing away my otherness, flooding across the cutting board, pinging into the metal basin set on the floor.

 

Mum’s thighs tremble. She could never bear to cut me. “Sorry,” she whispers.

 

That doesn’t stop my dread. We both know that now I’m coming into womanhood, no matter how often Alys cuts the webbing away, it will return. Or at least, that’s what the old tales say.

 

When both hands are done, Mum takes my elbow and guides me into the rocking chair, tucking a blanket over my knees.

 

Alys bandages my hands with a poultice of yarrow and spoons willow tea into my mouth. I lean my head back, weak as a spawned-­out salmon.

 

“Thank you, Alys.” Mum offers her a wooden spoon she carved from driftwood. It has a fish handle with glittering chips of oyster shell for scales.

 

Alys recoils.

 

The spoon clatters to the stone floor. A bit of oyster shell spins out, skidding to rest at my feet. Instinctively I reach to rescue it. Gasping, I pull back, cradling my hands, cringing in agony.

 

Alys’s nostrils flare. “What would I do with such a bauble in my good plain house?”

 

I stiffen. The brittle old barnacle! Her house doesn’t deserve anything so beautiful.

 

Mum picks up the fish spoon and sets it gently on the table, her mouth a tight line. She goes into the keeping room at the back of our cottage and returns with a stiff salted cod from our shoulder-­high stack.

 

The villagers gossip about why Da’s nets are so heavy laden since he married Mum, but he’s just a better fisherman than any of them, certainly better than Alys’s husband. Or her pimple-­nosed son.

 

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About Linda Crotta Brennan:

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Linda Crotta Brennan is the author of many picture books,
including When Rivers Burned, named a
Notable Social Studies Trade Book by the CBC and NCSS and an Outstanding
Science Trade Book by the NSTA and CBC. She holds a master’s degree in Early
Childhood Education and has worked as an instructor for the Institute of
Children’s Literature. Linda is an active member of SCBWI. The Selkie’s Daughter is her debut novel. She lives in New England.

Website | Twitter (X) | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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1 winner will receive a finished copy of THE SELKIE’S DAUGHTER, US Only.

Ends January 31st, midnight EST.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tour Schedule:

Week One:

1/15/2024

Kountry Girl Bookaholic

Excerpt/IG Post

1/15/2024

YA Books Central

Excerpt/IG Post

1/16/2024

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt/IG Post

1/16/2024

Lady Hawkeye

Excerpt/IG Post

1/17/2024

#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog

Excerpt/IG Post

1/17/2024

@dharashahauthor

IG Post/TikTok Post

1/18/2024

GryffindorBookishNerd

Review/IG Post

1/18/2024

Kim’s Book Reviews and Writing Aha’s

Review/IG Post

1/19/2024

@anitralovesbooksanddogs

IG Review

1/19/2024

The Momma Spot

Review

Week Two:

1/22/2024

FUONLYKNEW

Excerpt

1/22/2024

Jaimes_mystical_library

IG Review

1/23/2024

A Blue Box Full of Books

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic/TikTok Post

1/23/2024

One More Exclamation

Review/IG Post

1/24/2024

@froggyreadteach

IG Review

1/24/2024

Lisa-Queen of Random

Review/IG Post

1/25/2024

Country Mamas With Kids

Review/IG Post

1/25/2024

Confessions of the Perfect Mom

Review/IG Post

1/26/2024

two
points of interest

Review

1/26/2024

@enthuse_reader

IG Review/TikTok Post

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

TheStarandTheStrangeMoon copy

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We are thrilled to share The Star and the Strange Moon this week. Read on for more details and my review!

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TSATSMHardcover2

The Star and the Strange Moon

Publication Date: November 2023

Genre: Historical Fantasy

From the author of A Witch in Time comes a haunting tale of ambition, obsession, and the eternal mystery and magic of film.

A vanished star. A haunted film. A mystery only love can unravel…

1968: Gemma Turner once dreamed of stardom. Now the actress is on the cusp of obscurity. When she’s offered the lead in a radical new horror film, Gemma believes her luck has changed—but her dream is about to turn into a nightmare. One night, between the shadows of an alleyway, Gemma disappears on set and is never seen again. Yet, Gemma is alive. She’s been pulled into the film. And the script—and the monsters within it—are coming to life. Gemma must play her role perfectly if she hopes to survive.

2007: Gemma Turner’s disappearance is one of Hollywood’s greatest mysteries—one that’s captivated film student Christopher Kent ever since he saw L’Étrange Lune for the first time. The screenings only happen once a decade and each time there is new, impossible footage of Gemma that shouldn’t exist. Curiosity drives Christopher to unravel the truth. But answers to the film’s mystery may leave him trapped by it forever.

Get it Here!

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MY REVIEW

There’s been many a time when I sat down to read a book and didn’t look up until I finished it. Even ones as long as this one at almost 500 pages. I did have to stop reading it at one point to run an errand and quickly picked it back up when I returned. I was hooked. So hooked.

The synopsis was so intriguing. An actress, Gemma Turner, vanished during the filming of a movie in 1968. Flash forward to 2007 and film student, Christopher Kent, obsessed with finding out what happened to her after the simple act of seeing her picture on a wall drove his mother over the edge to insanity. And a secret screening of Gemma’s last acting role in L’Etrange Lune that takes place once every 10 years. Yes, it intrigued me.

As you can guess, the story jumps back and forth in time. First I’d be immersed in Gemma’s life and then I’d be immersed in what happened when she vanished and then I’d be immersed in Christopher’s present life and then his past.  That’s how this story was told and each time the story jumped to another character and time I’d be anxious to return. And that happened EVERY time with each era and character I was reading. And that’s why I couldn’t put it down. That and the fact the many character’s were so interesting, so genuine, flaws and all. Especially Gemma and Christopher. The author wrote her words and breathed life into them. I cared what happened. Felt their sorrow, their angst. How could I not.

In the hours I spent reading The Star And The Strange Moon I felt like I was transported into a fantasy world, a tragedy, a horror story…… a love story. What a fabulous feeling it was.

5 STARS

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About the Author

Constance Sayers headshotTSSM

Constance Sayers is the author of two best-selling novels: A Witch in Time (Hachette, 2020) and The Ladies of the Secret Circus (Hachette, 2021), the latter receiving both a Publishers Weekly and Library Journal starred reviews. Her work has been translated into six languages and her third novel, The Star and the Strange Moon will be published by Hachette on 11.14.23. She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, and her short fiction has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net.

She received an MA in English from George Mason University and a B.A. in Writing from the University of Pittsburgh. She lives outside of Washington D.C.

Constance Sayers

Book Tour Organized By:

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.