Lone Star Book Tour: SANDS OF TIME: APPOINTED TIME (BOOK 1) by C.J. Peterson ***REVIEW & GIVEAWAY***

SANDS OF TIME TRILOGY

by

C.J. PETERSON

Young Adult / Christian Fiction / Science Fiction

Publisher: Texas Sisters Press

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In the game of chess, there are moves and countermoves. This sci-fi series follows a group of teens with abilities as they go through the U.S. to rescue their siblings. The challenger in this is their sadistic creator, Professor Noah Roth, who has the money and power to win at any cost. This series has been described as “Stranger Things (minus the Mind Flayer portion) meets X-Men.” Don’t miss a single installment of this explosive, action-packed series!

Appointed Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 1), 8/20/21, 268 pages.

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Race Against Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 2), 10/1/21, 248 pages.

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Out of Time (Sands of Time Trilogy, Book 3), 1/25/22, 248 pages.

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Sands of Time: Appointed Time (Book 1)

Appointed Time by C.J. Peterson is a Christian YA themed story mainly about four gifted children. Two grew up with loving parents (Ben and Grace), and two grew up in a clinic and treated as lab experiments.  They each have special abilities and how they choose to wield those powers is greatly influenced by their upbringing.  Instead of growing up in a lab with Professor Roth, an unethical scientist trying to create powerful humans that he can control, Blake and Holly live in hiding with two nurses who stole them away to save their lives.  Sixteen years later, Professor Roth has finally found them and what happens next will change their lives forever. I don't want to give too much away because this is where the action really starts to take place.

The story is told in a third person perspective so you get to see the point of view of several different characters.  It’s clear that the first book is more of a set-up book for the next two.  There is a lot of character development and background of Holly and Blake throughout their childhood.  Peterson does a good job of showing the reader how these two children learn to harness and control their special abilities while living in hiding. It's not easy for them and it was interesting to see how the two children helped each other through the process. I also liked that the relationships between the characters were not predictable.  Even though Ben and Grace lived together while they raised Holly and Blake, they never developed a romantic relationship.  Instead, Grace develops a secret relationship with the town Sheriff early on in the story.

Most of the story is getting to know Holly and Blake as they grow up, learn to control their abilities, and how they eventually make some friends who attend the local church.  Later in the story, Peterson does a good job filling-in the reader about how Adam and Deanna were raised by using flashbacks at various stages of their youth while growing up in the compound with Professor Roth and other gifted children.  You get to understand the motivation and heartbreaking childhood of these two and how vastly different their upbringing was compared to Holly and Blake's.

Peterson’s book is not only telling the story of these gifted children, but of Jesus and Christianity in direct and indirect ways.  Christian stories and principles are sprinkled in the book through pastor sermons, or just through dialog of the characters when talking about life choices. I would have liked to know more about Professor Roth, as well as Ben and Grace's backgrounds. I'm also curious about what happened to Alex, as she was a potential love interest for Ben. I'm sure we'll see her in book two. There were definitely some plot twists that I didn't see coming! We learn later on in the story that Blake and Holly are more powerful than even they know and I'm looking forward to seeing their full potential. Overall, Appointed Time was a fun, action-packed read that kept my attention until the last page! I am looking forward to finding out what happens next in book two.

 

4 Stars!

C.J. Peterson is a ten-time award-winning, multi-genre published author since 2012. She is also a podcaster, blogger, and publisher who knows how to relate well to folks of all ages. C.J. and her husband currently run a hybrid publishing company, Texas Sisters Press, LLC, which CJ and her sisters founded in 2019.

She has authored multiple series including the Grace Restored Series, the Holy Flame Trilogy, the Divine Legacy Series, the Sands of Time Trilogy, the Adventures of Chief and Sarge, plus her recently released time travel book with a twist, Chain Reaction!

“While the stories are fiction, the journey is real.”

Connect with C.J.

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YA Review: TOKYO DREAMING by Emiko Jean

Tokyo Dreaming

by Emiko Jean
336 pages
Published May 31st 2022 by Flatiron Books

Plot: When Japanese-American Izumi Tanaka learned her father was the Crown Prince of Japan, she became a princess overnight. Now, she’s overcome conniving cousins, salacious press, and an imperial scandal to finally find a place she belongs. She has a perfect bodyguard turned boyfriend. Her stinky dog, Tamagotchi, is living with her in Tokyo. Her parents have even rekindled their college romance and are engaged. A royal wedding is on the horizon! Izumi’s life is a Tokyo dream come true.

Only...

Her parents’ engagement hits a brick wall. The Imperial Household Council refuses to approve the marriage citing concerns about Izumi and her mother’s lack of pedigree. And on top of it all, her bodyguard turned boyfriend makes a shocking decision about their relationship. At the threat of everything falling apart, Izumi vows to do whatever it takes to help win over the council. Which means upping her newly acquired princess game.

But at what cost? Izumi will do anything to help her parents achieve their happily ever after, but what if playing the perfect princess means sacrificing her own? Will she find a way to forge her own path and follow her heart? (2022, Goodreads.com)

Review: Tokyo Dreaming picks up where Tokyo Ever After left off.  In this book, Izumi and her boyfriend, Akio, are broken up for most of the story.  To not have the press or any other person at the palace start playing matchmaker, she asks a new friend to be her fake boyfriend.  He is perfect for the position because he comes from a very wealthy family and is someone who would be accepted amongst the royals.  However, things start to get complicated when Akio suddenly wants Izumi back, but her "fake boyfriend" wants to be her real boyfriend.  Izumi is also worried that the Emperor and council will never approve of her mother marrying her father, so she does her best to be the "perfect" princess to show she can play her part in all this.  

If you liked Tokyo Ever After, you will enjoy the sequel.  Also, if you like the fake dating troupe then you will also enjoy this book.  It feels like more is on the line for Izumi in this book because she wants to get into college as well as have her parent's marriage approved.  She feels her choices play a big part in whether that happens or not.  She cares for both love interests in this story and I wasn't really sure who she'd choose in the end!  The story itself paced well, although there were some parts I felt were a bit slow.  Overall, a satisfying conclusion to the duology.

4 Hearts! 💖💖💖💖

 

YA Review: Bone Crier's Moon by Kathryn Purdie

 

Bone Crier's Moon

by Kathryn Purdie

Published March 3rd 2020

 by Katherine Tegen Books

480 pages

Plot: Bone ​Criers have a sacred duty. They alone can keep the dead from preying on the living. But their power to ferry the spirits of the dead into goddess Elara’s Night Heavens or Tyrus’s Underworld comes from sacrifice. The gods demand a promise of dedication. And that promise comes at the cost of the Bone Criers’ one true love.
Ailesse has been prepared since birth to become the matriarch of the Bone Criers, a mysterious famille of women who use strengths drawn from animal bones to ferry dead souls. But first she must complete her rite of passage and kill the boy she’s also destined to love.

Bastien’s father was slain by a Bone Crier and he’s been seeking revenge ever since. Yet when he finally captures one, his vengeance will have to wait. Ailesse’s ritual has begun and now their fates are entwined—in life and in death.

Sabine has never had the stomach for the Bone Criers’ work. But when her best friend Ailesse is taken captive, Sabine will do whatever it takes to save her, even if it means defying their traditions—and their matriarch—to break the bond between Ailesse and Bastien. Before they all die (2022, Goodreads.com). 

Review: Bone Crier’s Moon is a very unique story about women who have to ferry the dead to the right place at their time of death. This will keep them from attacking the living. But, in order to be part of this group (which you are raised to be since birth), you have to kill your soul mate. This is to show how devout you are to this faith/religion.  In order to find your soul mate, you have to lure him with a special song played with a special flute.  These women are called Bone Criers.  They also get powers from animal bones, and the stronger the animals they kill the stronger their abilities are.  Ailesse is the daughter of the matriarch, and it’s her turn to lure her true love and kill him.  

The other POV is Bastien.  His father was killed by a Bone Crier and he and his two friends are out for revenge.  Bastien finds Ailesse the night she plays her flute and he is ready to lure her in and kill her. But, things don’t go according to plan and Ailesse is captured rather than killed by Bastien.   The 3rd POV in the story is Sabine. She is Ailesse’s best friend and will do whatever she can to help her friend return home safely.  She has made it her mission to break the bond that Ailesse believes she has formed with Bastien.  As Ailesse and Bastien spend more time together both question whether or not their motives for killing the other is worth it.  

Overall, the story is interesting and unique.  It was a little confusing as to why your true love will die either way even if you don’t kill him (after about a year).  So, you technically didn’t HAVE to kill him.  You just couldn’t be a ferrier if you didn’t do it to show your loyalty - but then he’ll somehow die anyway?  That confused me.  There were some interesting twists in the last half of the book that will have you wanting to know what happens  next in book 2. The three character POV was a good way to tell the story.  I liked seeing the story unfold from these multiple perspectives.  The connection between Ailesse and Bastien was done well and was a good enemy to lovers trope.  

Rating: 3.5 hearts    

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YA Review: GILDED by Marissa Meyer

 

Gilded
by Marissa Meyer
Published November 2, 2021 

by Feiwel and Friends

502 pages

Plot: Long ago cursed by the god of lies, a poor miller's daughter has developed a talent for spinning stories that are fantastical and spellbinding and entirely untrue.

Or so everyone believes.

When one of Serilda's outlandish tales draws the attention of the sinister Erlking and his undead hunters, she finds herself swept away into a grim world where ghouls and phantoms prowl the earth and hollow-eyed ravens track her every move. The king orders Serilda to complete the impossible task of spinning straw into gold, or be killed for telling falsehoods. In her desperation, Serilda unwittingly summons a mysterious boy to her aid. He agrees to help her . . . for a price.

Soon Serilda realizes that there is more than one secret hidden in the castle walls, including an ancient curse that must be broken if she hopes to end the tyranny of the king and his wild hunt forever.  (2022, Goodreads.com).

Review:  In this dark retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, Serilda, the miller’s daughter, is good at telling stories.  At telling lies.  And after some unfortunate circumstances, and a ridiculous lie - she is taken away to the Erlking’s domain to spin straw into gold. Since she professed that she could after all.  Unfortunately, Serilda can’t spin straw into gold and knows she will die once the Erlking finds out.  However, at midnight a boy appears and agrees to help her as long as she gives him something of value in return.  As the original story goes she is able to fool the king, but this is where the similarities of the retelling end.  First of all, the “Rumpelstiltskin” character is not an ugly troll/goblin.  He is a handsome boy around Serlida’s age. He has no memory of who he was before being cursed to the Erlking’s castle or why.  We also don’t know why he can spin straw into gold or isn't like the other "ghosts" in the castle.  Soon the two grow to care for each other, but the Erlking is ruthless and cruel and the story gets very dark after this point.  I was definitely surprised towards the last 30% of the book.  

Overall, the story was an interesting retelling of the classic story.  It did have some similarities, but overall it is it’s own story and world.  The writing was good and had an interesting twist towards the end.  I did feel it didn’t need to be as long as it was.  There were some chapters that could have been taken out - as I didn’t think it progressed the story much.  It also gets pretty dark towards the end and so it's not for the faint of heart.  

Rating: 3 Hearts!
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YA Review: THE SHADOWS BETWEEN US by Tricia Levenseller

 

The Shadows Between Us
by Tricia Levenseller

Published February 25th 2020 
by Feiwel and Friends
326 pages

Plot: Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power:

1) Woo the Shadow King.
2) Marry him.
3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself.

No one knows the extent of the freshly crowned Shadow King’s power. Some say he can command the shadows that swirl around him to do his bidding. Others say they speak to him, whispering the thoughts of his enemies. Regardless, Alessandra knows what she deserves, and she’s going to do everything within her power to get it.

But Alessandra’s not the only one trying to kill the king. As attempts on his life are made, she finds herself trying to keep him alive long enough for him to make her his queen—all while struggling not to lose her heart. After all, who better for a Shadow King than a cunning, villainous queen? (Goodreads, 2022).

Review: The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller is like nothing I have ever read before.   Alessandra is a conniving, manipulating, shellfish murderer with no remorse. It took a while for me to get into this story because Alessandra is such an anti-hero and it was really hard to root for her (considering her main goal was to marry the king so she can kill him and take over his kingdom). She does anything and everything to achieve her goal of becoming queen and having power, so she is not really a likable character.  That being said, the story was interesting and her relationship with the Shadow King was a very slow burn romance.  Her character does become more likable as the story progresses, but she is an anti-hero throughout the book. Her personality and bitterness come from her father’s lack of love and attention.  Her older sister is the favorite and Alessandra hates her and her father for ignoring her.  She feels empowered when she does what she wants and doesn’t take orders from anyone.  She could care less if her actions are not “lady-like.”  

The King has a hard time trusting people, and for some reason he trusts Alessandra. She is good at getting men to fall for her.  Despite her character flaws, she never lies to the king.  I think that’s what appeals to him the most.  She is very up front and honest with anything he asks her, which is refreshing to him since he cannot trust anyone at his court until he finds the person or people responsible for his parents’ deaths.  There are some twists I didn’t see coming at the end and it wraps up nicely in the final chapter.  

Overall, this is a very unique story that was definitely an experience to read. If you like a strong-minded female MC, who slept around a lot (prior to being courted by the king), and would kill you if you got in her way then this one could be for you.  The writing was well done and keeps you interested in seeing what happens to Alessandra as her plot to kill the king unravels.

Rating: 3 Hearts!

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YA Review: AURORA RISING by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Aurora Rising

by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers
May 7, 2019
473 pages

Plot: The year is 2380, and the graduating cadets of Aurora Academy are being assigned their first missions. Star pupil Tyler Jones is ready to recruit the squad of his dreams, but his own boneheaded heroism sees him stuck with the dregs nobody else in the Academy would touch…

A cocky diplomat with a black belt in sarcasm
A sociopath scientist with a fondness for shooting her bunkmates
A smart-ass techwiz with the galaxy’s biggest chip on his shoulder
An alien warrior with anger management issues
A tomboy pilot who’s totally not into him, in case you were wondering

And Ty’s squad isn’t even his biggest problem—that’d be Aurora Jie-Lin O’Malley, the girl he’s just rescued from interdimensional space. Trapped in cryo-sleep for two centuries, Auri is a girl out of time and out of her depth. But she could be the catalyst that starts a war millions of years in the making, and Tyler’s squad of losers, discipline-cases and misfits might just be the last hope for the entire galaxy.

Review:  Aurora Rising is like a mix between Guardians of the Galaxy and Valerian.  A group of military misfits and a girl out of time are thrown together to uncover a secret mission that went awry over 200 years ago.  As the sole survivor of a colony resettlement ship, Aurora is awoken 200 years into the future. She doesn’t understand why or how she survived or why the planet she was supposed to settle on has no records of ever being a colony.  Strange things happen to Aurora when she or her new friends are put in danger and you learn there is more to Aurora than meets the eye.  As the story progresses, you learn there is definitely a conspiracy going on in the story’s government/military.

The story is told in 6 different POVs, which makes it interesting and fun.  The dialogue is funny and you can’t help but like the characters as a team. Each character has a very distinct personality. There is some light romance between Aurora and one of the male team mates. I think it will be developed more in book 2.   If you like Science Fiction/Fantasy, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Trek, or Valerian, then you will probably enjoy this one.

Rating:  4 Hearts!

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YA Review: OF CURSES AND KISSES by Sandhya Menon

 Of Curses and Kisses
by Sandhya Menon
Published by Simon Pulse
February 18, 2020
384 pages

Synopsis: For Princess Jaya Rao, nothing is more important than family. When the loathsome Emerson clan steps up their centuries-old feud to target Jaya’s little sister, nothing will keep Jaya from exacting her revenge. Then Jaya finds out she’ll be attending the same elite boarding school as Grey Emerson, and it feels like the opportunity of a lifetime. She knows what she must do: Make Grey fall in love with her and break his heart. But much to Jaya’s annoyance, Grey’s brooding demeanor and lupine blue eyes have drawn her in. There’s simply no way she and her sworn enemy could find their fairy-tale ending…right?

His Lordship Grey Emerson is a misanthrope. Thanks to an ancient curse by a Rao matriarch, Grey knows he’s doomed once he turns eighteen. Sequestered away in the mountains at St. Rosetta’s International Academy, he’s lived an isolated existence—until Jaya Rao bursts into his life, but he can't shake the feeling that she’s hiding something. Something that might just have to do with the rose-shaped ruby pendant around her neck…

As the stars conspire to keep them apart, Jaya and Grey grapple with questions of love, loyalty, and whether it’s possible to write your own happy ending.  (2021, Goodreads.com)

Review:  Of Curses and Kisses is a Beauty and the Beast retelling set in modern day.  It was a unique take on the much done retellings that have come out based on this fairytale.  The beast was Lord Grey Emerson, the son of a Duke, who was cursed long ago by the Rao family after their prized ruby was stolen by his ancestors.  Since he was young, Grey was convinced by his father that he would die on his 18th birthday due to the curse.  Because of that he isolates himself from having any meaningful relationships, friends or otherwise.  Princess Jaya Rao wants revenge on Grey Emerson because she believes he was behind the leaking of a scandal that involved her younger sister.  But, Jaya's plans for revenge go awry when she herself starts to fall for Grey.  The "rose petals" falling to count down the demise of the "beast" was portrayed by a ruby rose necklace Jaya wore.  The closer Grey's 18th birthday came, more and more ruby petals would fall off Jaya's necklace.  Drama ensues in this original retelling as family obligations, betrayal, and being true to yourself come to a head in Menon's new YA romance series. 

Overall, I enjoyed this as a retelling because it was unique and not what I was expecting.  However, I think Jaya and Grey's relationship needed a little more time together.  After being so adamant about not getting involved with the other, they fell for each other over a couple of weeks. Sometimes the story did drag a bit, and I found myself waiting for something more interesting to happen. The use the "F' word occurred quite a bit throughout the book and I'm not sure why but it just seemed unnecessary.  Other than that, the writing and storytelling was good and I would definitely pick up another book by this author.

  

Rating: 3.5 Hearts

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YA Review: SPIN THE DAWN by Elizabeth Lim

 

Spin the Dawn
by Elizabeth Lim

Published by Alfred A. Knopf

July 9, 2019

392 pages

Plot: Maia Tamarin dreams of becoming the greatest tailor in the land, but as a girl, the best she can hope for is to marry well. When a royal messenger summons her ailing father, once a tailor of renown, to court, Maia poses as a boy and takes his place. She knows her life is forfeit if her secret is discovered, but she'll take that risk to achieve her dream and save her family from ruin. There's just one catch: Maia is one of twelve tailors vying for the job.

Backstabbing and lies run rampant as the tailors compete in challenges to prove their artistry and skill. Maia's task is further complicated when she draws the attention of the court magician, Edan, whose piercing eyes seem to see straight through her disguise.

And nothing could have prepared her for the final challenge: to sew three magic gowns for the emperor's reluctant bride-to-be, from the laughter of the sun, the tears of the moon, and the blood of stars. With this impossible task before her, she embarks on a journey to the far reaches of the kingdom, seeking the sun, the moon, and the stars, and finding more than she ever could have imagined.

Review: Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim was a high-stakes fantasy with it's own Chinese-inspired mythology.  It was a very emotion-filled story of a young girl named Maia who takes the place of her father who is too weak, to compete for the position of Royal Tailor to the Emperor.  Unfortunately, tailors cannot be women, so Maia disguises her self as her brother in order to compete.  While there, she meets the Lady Sarnai, who is being forced by her father to marry the Emperor.  She is not happy about it and is trying to delay the wedding as much as possible.  In her last effort to stall the wedding, she asks Maia, who is referred to as Master Tamarin, to make the 3 dresses of their goddess Amana.  Maia knows this is an impossible task because it would take the tears of the moon, the blood of the stars, and the laughter of the sun to make these legendary dresses.  Maia does have a pair of magical scissors that have been in her family for centuries, but she's not sure they will be able help her complete this task.  This is where Edan, The Lord Enchanter, steps in to accompany Maia on her journey because he wants to ensure she succeeds.  The fate of their Kingdom and for peace depends on it.

The journey is a laborious one, full of danger and impossible challenges.  But, with the help of Edan, Maia has a chance to succeed.  Because if she doesn't, the Emperor will kill her father and brother.  So much happens on this journey and it changes Maia and Edan forever.  There is a romance that builds slowly between the two that only grows as the story progresses.  I would classify it as an enemies to lovers romance. The story is told through Maia's point of view, and the author did a great job with her character growth and internal conflict.  It was a roller-coaster of emotions because the story turns darker as it progresses.  The author also reflects on how wars affect families and the heartbreak of losing loved ones.  The romance is the story is only secondary to the plot, which is to prevent another war between two kingdoms by ensuring Lady Sarnai marries the Emperor.  

If you like Asian-inspired mythology and a high-stakes fantasy/romance, then you will enjoy Spin the Dawn.  Looking forward to reading Unravel the Dusk and finding out what happens to Maia, Edan, and the fate of their Kingdom. 

Rating:  5 Hearts!
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YA Review: A CASTLE IN THE CLOUDS by Kerstin Gier

 A Castle in the Clouds
by Kerstin Gier

Published by Henry & Holt and Company

January 28, 2020

336 pages

Plot: Way up in the Swiss mountains, there's an old grand hotel steeped in tradition and faded splendor. Once a year, when the famous New Year's Eve Ball takes place and guests from all over the world arrive, excitement returns to the vast hallways.

Sophie, who works at the hotel as an intern, is busy making sure that everything goes according to plan. But unexpected problems keep arising, and some of the guests are not who they pretend to be. Very soon, Sophie finds herself right in the middle of a perilous adventure--and at risk of losing not only her job, but also her heart. 

Review:  A Castle in the Clouds by Kerstin Gier is a cute cozy mystery with a light romance.  In this story, Sophie Spark is an intern at the luxury hotel Castle in the Clouds.  There she befriends the hotel owner's son, Ben, and a mysterious boy named Tristan, who may or may not be a thief.  While there she learns that Ben’s father plans to sell the hotel in addition to the possibility that there may be a child kidnapper posing as a guest. The setting is in the Swiss mountains around Christmas time and it's the type of book you read slowly as you get to know Sophie and all the hotel guests. The real intrigue doesn't happen until half way through the book though.

I did enjoy this book, but it did take a while for me to get into it. It wasn’t until I reached the middle of the book that it started to pick up and get more interesting.  Thankfully, the second half of the book was worth the wait. 

If you like a cozy mystery with a bit of romance that you’ll enjoy A Castle in the Clouds.  It is a slow-start book, with most of the action and interesting parts starting about half-way in.  So you’ll have to be a little patient with it. This is a stand alone book.  I highly recommend Kerstin Gier’s Ruby Red series if you enjoy a good time-traveling adventure/romance.  

Rating: 3.5 Hearts

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YA Review: ALL THE STARS AND TEETH by Adalyn Grace

All the Stars and Teeth

by Adalyn Grace

Published by Imprint

 February 4, 2020

373 pages

Plot: Set in a kingdom where danger lurks beneath the sea, mermaids seek vengeance with song, and magic is a choice.

She will reign.

As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer — the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it’s never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy’s dangerous soul magic. When her demonstration goes awry, Amora is forced to flee. She strikes a deal with Bastian, a mysterious pirate: he’ll help her prove she’s fit to rule, if she’ll help him reclaim his stolen magic.

But sailing the kingdom holds more wonder — and more peril — than Amora anticipated. A destructive new magic is on the rise, and if Amora is to conquer it, she’ll need to face legendary monsters, cross paths with vengeful mermaids, and deal with a stow-away she never expected… or risk the fate of Visidia and lose the crown forever.

I am the right choice. The only choice. And I will protect my kingdom. (2021, goodreads.com)

Review: First of all, I want to comment on how gorgeous the cover of this book is. Absolutely one of my favorite covers!  It really makes you want to find out more about this book!  Actually, the cover is what first drew my attention to this book and I'm so glad it did! In this story, we follow Amora, the princess of Visidia, and the next ruler of her kingdom.  She just has to master a magic that only her bloodline possess.  But, when her test doesn't go as planned, she flees with a handsome pirate named Bastian, who is more than what he seems. Yet, she has no choice but to trust him if she wants to return to her kingdom with a second chance.  Unfortunately, her fiancé (through an arranged marriage) stows away on the ship as well and the three of them are off on a nearly impossible mission that will help Amora regain her kingdom and Bastian regain is lost magic. However, to achieve their goals they have to face a man who has the power and the army to challenge Amora's father and bring their kingdom down.  With the help of a mermaid, this unlikely crew finds themselves not only in the battle of their lives, but for the lives of everyone in all of the islands within the kingdom.  

You will find great storytelling and top-notch writing in this YA fantasy.  There is a romance, but is not the center focus of the book.  However, it is nicely woven into the story-line and there is no insta-love between the characters. All the characters are well developed with their own unique personalities. You will definitely enjoy the adventure and death-defying experiences of Amora and her crew.  

All the Stars and Teeth is a fun, yet dark YA fantasy that is very well written, refreshingly original and definitely action-packed.  Filled with adventure, romance, strong lead characters, and a high-stakes quest that will take you to the edge and back.  A great debut and looking forward to reading the next book!

Book 2: All the Tides of Fate

Rating: 5 Hearts!

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YA Review: THE BETROTHED by Kiera Cass

THE BETROTHED
by 
Kiera Cass

Published May 5, 2020

HarperTeen

307 pages

SUMMARY: The young king of Coroa has never been the type to settle down—that is, until he meets Hollis Brite.

Hollis has grown up at Keresken Castle among the other daughters of nobility who hoped beyond hope that they’d catch the king’s eye. So when King Jameson declares his love for her, Hollis is shocked—and thrilled.

But she soon realizes that along with the extravagant presents and fawning attention, this new life brings outsized expectations—expectations that make her wonder if she’s really cut out for life as a royal.

With a visit from the king of Isolte on the horizon, Hollis sees a chance to prove to Jameson—and herself—that she has what it takes to be queen. But when she meets an Isolten stranger with the mysterious power to see right into her heart, she finds that the future she wants is one she never dared to dream of.  (2021, Goodreads.com)

REVIEW: In The Betrothed by Kiera Cass we are taken to a world where the main character, Hollis, is being courted by the young King.  At first Hollis didn’t think he would choose her to be his bride because he’s a fickle King when it comes to the women in his life.  But, after spending some time with Hollis, the King has made it clear to her that he intends to make her his bride.  He promises to announce a betrothal to her soon and she is surprised but excited about this.  Hollis’ parents are nobles and they can’t be happier.  However, a family from another kingdom comes seeking refuge.  Amongst this family is a boy named Silas, who Hollis is drawn to even though she knows she shouldn’t be.  After spending some time with him, Hollis begins to question who she loves and what kind of life she wants for herself.

***Possible Spoiler***

Not sure if you'd consider this a spoiler since you can guess what’s going to happen after reading the synopsis. 😏

The first half of this story was really about Hollis and King Jameson and their courtship.  You don’t get introduced to Silas until almost halfway through the book.  So, for a romance it’s off to a slow start. Unfortunately, Hollis and Silas don’t spend too much time together after they meet before they already let each other know their feelings.  It wasn’t ista-love per say, but they really didn’t spend enough time together for Hollis to throw away her opportunity to be the queen. This is something any girl in the kingdom would love to be, especially since King Jameson is not an evil king. He was very sweet to Hollis and basically made her feel like she hung the moon.  However, once Hollis finds out any children she has with the king will probably be used for political marriages, she totally changes her feelings about becoming queen and King Jameson.  All of a sudden, she realizes that she doesn’t want to be the queen because she won’t have control over her children and all the politics that goes along with being royalty.  

Unfortunately, Hollis as a character was just not that likable and she “giggled” way too much.  It started to become more annoying than endearing. Her personality was too nice and perfect.  It’s hard to understand, other than it being insta-love, why Hollis would even choose Silas.  He was nice and a good craftsman, but there wasn’t really anything about him that made him a better choice than King Jameson. The only thing was that Hollis’ children wouldn’t be given in political marriages.  This seemed to be the deal breaker for her. Silas was also a bland character. There wasn't anything about him that would make a girl choose exile over being a queen. Again, the King was overly sweet with Hollis and treated her very well. I could see her changing her mind if the King started to become mean or abusive, but that never happened.

The book itself really didn’t become interesting until after Hollis decides to run away with Silas, and that was the last ⅔ of the story.  There is an interesting plot twist at the very end, which will make you wonder what happens in book two. I really wanted to love The Betrothed, since I did enjoy The Selection series. I definitely recommend that series! 👍  As for this story, I give it 3 hearts because although the writing was good, I didn't find myself caring about the characters and I wasn't left feeling the need to read the next book.

Book 2: The Betrayed

RATING:

3 Hearts!

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LoneStar Book Blog Tour: PUDGE AND PREJUDICE by A.K. Pittman ***REVIEW & GIVEAWAY***

 

PUDGE AND PREJUDICE

by

A.K. PITTMAN

Categories: YA / Clean & Wholesome Romance / '80s

Publisher: Wander (a division of Tyndale House)

Date of Publication: January 12, 2021

Number of Pages: 352 pages

***Scroll down for Giveaway!***

A Mixtape of Big '80s Style, High School Angst, and a Classic Jane Austen Tale

It’s 1984 and after moving to Northenfield, Texas, with her family, Elyse Nebbit faces the challenge of finding her place in a new school, one dominated by social status and Friday night football. When Elyse’s effortlessly beautiful older sister Jayne starts dating golden boy Charlie Bingley, Elyse finds herself curious about Charlie’s popular and brooding best friend, Billy Fitz. Elyse’s body insecurities eventually complicate her relationship with Billy, leaving Jayne and Elyse’s exceedingly blunt friend, Lottie, to step in and help Elyse accept herself for who she is, pant size and all.

PRAISE FOR PUDGE AND PREJUDICE:

 

Written with wit and considerable insight into the highs and lows of first love, this coming-of-age twist on the Jane Austen classic had me laughing out loud, singing ‘80s lyrics in my head, and cheering on the brilliant, yet self-deprecating heroine. Pudge & Prejudice is a joy to read from beginning to end!

—Lorie Langdon author of Olivia Twist and the Disney Villains series

Allison Pittman will have readers laughing (and singing) on every page of this delightfully tenderhearted novel for all ages…[She] crafts a particularly savvy character who learns that beauty really is soul-deep…. 

—Julie Cantrell, New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of Perennials   

I can’t remember the last time I loved a book as much as I love this one. It’s an instant classic I will return to time after time. 

—Bethany Turner, Award-Winning Author of The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck

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Set in Northfield, Texas in the year 1984, A.K. Pittman's Pudge and Prejudice is the '80s style Jane Austen adaptation you never knew you always wanted to read.  The story stays true to the major plot points of Pride and Prejudice, although not so much that it makes the story too predictable. Pittman does a good job changing the storyline just enough, while keeping true to the main theme and feel of the original. 

Pudge and Prejudice primarily focuses around Elyse Nebbitt and her sister Jayne's experience and relationships after moving with their family to a new town obsessed with social status and Texas high school football.  After meeting Charlie Bingley and his best friend Billy Fitz, the sisters have become the center of attention at their new school. Some of it good, and some not so good. Elyse is not your typical female lead, although probably the most relatable that I've seen in while.  As many young girls do, Elyse struggles with her weight and the insecurities that come along with it.  While her sister is seen as the more physically attractive of the the two, Elyse never lets that turn to jealously or hatred.  Pittman does a great job showing the strength and vulnerability of Elyse as a teenager dealing with first love, insecurity, and trying to fit in without changing who she is.  Elyse's laugh-out-loud personality makes her even more likable and you'll root for her happy ending until the very last page.

A fun and enjoyable coming-of-age story '80s style that you won't want to miss! A perfect addition to your home or high school library!  Definitely looking forward to more stories from Mrs. Pittman!

5 Hearts!

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Allison Pittman is an award-winning author of thirteen novels, including the Christy-nominated Sister Wife series and the critically acclaimed The Seamstress. An enthusiast for all of the writing world, Allison holds active leadership in her local American Christian Fiction Writers chapter, and she heads up a thriving critique group in the San Antonio area. When not writing, Allison teaches middle school English, working as a conduit to introduce her students to new, fresh literature. You can follow her around on Instagram or Twitter and keep up with her writing news on her Allison Pittman Author Facebook page. Here you'll learn what's going on with new books, next books, and day-to-day life with Allison and her husband, Mikey. You'll also get a peek at Snax, the world's worst dog.

 

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GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY!

THREE WINNERS

Each winner receives a SIGNED COPY of the book,

a hair scrunchie, and a $25 Visa Gift Card

Giveaway ends Midnight, CST, 2/13/2021

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2/3/21	Review	The Page Unbound
2/3/21	Review	Missus Gonzo
2/4/21	Review	All the Ups and Downs
2/5/21	Review	Carpe Diem Chronicles
2/5/21	Review	That's What She's Reading
2/6/21	Review	The Adventures of a Travelers Wife
2/7/21	Review	Rebecca R. Cahill, Author
2/8/21	Review	Nerd Narration
2/8/21	Review	Rainy Days with Amanda
2/9/21	Review	Story Schmoozing Book Reviews
2/10/21	Review	StoreyBook Reviews
2/10/21	Review	Momma on the Rocks
2/11/21	Review	Book Fidelity
2/11/21	BONUS Promo	Hall Ways Blog
2/12/21	Review	Librariel Book Adventures
2/12/21	Review	Jennifer Silverwood

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