Tittle           : The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches

Author        : Sangu Mandanna

Pub Date    : August 23, 2022

Pages          : 336

My Rating   : ★★★★★

The Summary

Mika Moon, one of the few witches in Britain, is aware that in order to prevent her magic from being discovered, she must keep a low profile and avoid interacting with other witches. She also abides by the rules because she is an orphan who was raised by strangers after losing her parents when she was a young child and is accustomed to living alone. However, she has one online account where she posts movies in which she poses as a witch. Nobody will take it seriously, she believes.

Still, somebody does. Unexpectedly, she receives a telegram pleading with her to go to the isolated and enigmatic Nowhere House to train the three young witches in using their power. Mika is persuaded to go despite the fact that it is against the regulations, and as soon as she does, she becomes entangled in the lives and secrets of not only her three charges but also an absent archaeologist, a retired actor, two patient carers, and...Jamie. A stranger like Mika poses a threat in the eyes of Nowhere House's gorgeous and sarcastic librarian, who will stop at nothing to keep the kids safe. a tempting danger that is bothersome.

The idea of belonging someplace starts to feel like a real possibility as Mika begins to find her place at Nowhere House. However, there are threats outside of the magical realm as well, and Mika will have to choose whether to risk all to defend a family she hadn't even realized she was seeking for.

My Review

This book has the coziest atmosphere, a nice romance, and a sweet new family. After spending so much time with it, I actually found it difficult to put it down.

I'm not going to lie, I had high expectations, and I'm delighted to report that they were met. This book was excellent. both physically and figuratively. Each character was fantastic. I really like reading about how well-adjusted they were to one another.

This book contains a lot of humor. Mika, a witch who has always felt isolated from the rest of humanity, joins this unique family that also consists of three young witches, a grumpy librarian, a gorgeous actor and his quiet husband, and a lovely housekeeper.

For more than half of the novel, there wasn't much tension, which left a lot of room for incredibly funny, joyful moments and bonding that may or may not have slightly lessened my sorrow. Use of the found family trope is excellent. The story was really genuine.

What a beautiful and magical novel, all in all!

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : The Stolen Child

Author        : Emily Shiner

Pub Date    : September 11, 2022

Pages          : 263

My Rating   : ★★★

The Summary

Eliza leads a flawless existence. A lovely house, a very popular blog, a devoted spouse, and two wonderful kids.

In a pointless job, Bethany just about makes it. Her sole source of joy is reading Eliza's blog. She is obsessed with her and thinks they will always be best friends.

Eliza, however, doesn't need any more friends, especially not one as overbearing as Bethany. Eliza is concealing a family secret, therefore. One that, if ever exposed, would rock her entire world.

Angry and rejected, Bethany begins following Eliza. Bethany also learns Eliza's secret while keeping an eye on her every step and makes threats to reveal it.

But Eliza will go to any lengths to preserve her ideal life. Even if it means permanently getting rid of Bethany.

My Review

This novel will keep you turning the pages! While reading, I experience strong emotions, rage, and tension. It was quick to read and had a rapid pace.

Both of the primary characters are utterly mad and unbelievably repulsive. But I also realize that having nice characters isn't a requirement for a successful book. Instead, it concerns how the characters can be present in the story while still evolving and changing for the benefit of the readers.

The plot developed with good pacing that progressively gained momentum. Unfortunately, I wish I had known more about each character's backstory, and I felt that the execution at the conclusion could have been better.

The potential for this tale is endless. Even though the events are not totally true, they certainly capture your attention and pique your curiosity, which is one of the essential components of thrillers in my opinion.

This is still well worth reading if you can stomach it and are looking for a psychological thriller.

Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for providing an ARC in return for a honestly review.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : Daughter of the Moon Goddess (The Celestial Kingdom #1)

Author        : Sue Lynn Tan

Pub Date    : January 11, 2022

Pages          : 512

My Rating   : ★★★★

The Summary

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is the first book of a charming, love-centered duology that blends elements of traditional Chinese mythology into a grand adventure involving immortals and magic. Here, love contends with honor, dreams are tested by betrayal, and hope ultimately triumphs.

Xingyin, who spent her childhood on the moon, is used to being by herself and isn't aware that the dreaded Celestial Emperor, who banished her mother for stealing his elixir of immortality, is keeping an eye out for her. However, Xingyin is forced to leave her home and mother behind when her power ignites and her presence is discovered.

She travels to the Celestial Kingdom, a place of wonder and mystery, alone, helpless, and terrified. By hiding her identity, she takes advantage of the chance to acquire skills like magic and archery with the emperor's son as their romance intensifies.

Xingyin embarks on a dangerous journey to save her mother, squaring up against terrifying foes on both the ground and in the air. She must confront the merciless Celestial Emperor for her dream, striking a risky deal where she must decide between losing everything she loves and bringing about anarchy in the kingdom when betrayal lurks and forbidden magic threatens the land.

My Review

What a lovely start to the series and what an exciting opening!

I adore these kinds of settings! Everything was magical and vibrant. Similar holds true for the characters.

You've built a stunning universe. You get the impression that you are wandering in a spiritual realm as you smell the exquisitely described multicolored flowers, stroll along the path to see the various houses of kingdoms, leap upon a cloud to travel between the moon and several earths, and are fascinated and also threatened by mythological creatures like glorious and brave dragons.

The lyrical quality of the words and the generally strong writing impressed me. It communicated its message without overusing analogies and blended seamlessly into the story.

I was surprised by a few plot turns. But I'm sure that the following book will go far further and expose much more history.

All around, it is stunning, imaginative, and epic. This homey, multicultural fantasy novel is wonderful.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : The Poppy War (#1)

Author        : R.F. Kuang

Pub Date    : May 01, 2018

Pages          : 545

My Rating   : ★★★★★

The Summary

It was a surprise to everyone when Rin aced the Keju—the Empire-wide test to identify the brightest young people to study at the Academies. The test administrators couldn't believe a war orphan from Rooster Province could pass without cheating; Rin's guardians thought they'd finally be able to marry her off and further their criminal enterprise; and Rin herself realized she was finally free from the servitude and despair that had been her daily existence. Even more shocking was the fact that she was accepted into Sinegard, Nikan's top military academy.

However, surprises aren't always favorable.

Because it's not always easy to be a dark-skinned peasant girl from the South in Sinegard. As a result of being targeted from the start by competitor students due to her race, poverty, and gender, Rin learns she has a deadly, supernatural talent—a talent for the almost mythological practice of shamanism. With the aid of a teacher who appears to be insane and psychoactive drugs, Rin learns how powerful her talent is and how gods that were once believed to be extinct are still very much alive. She also discovers that mastering her abilities could mean more than just getting through school.

Because the Federation of Mugen is still present across a small sea, even though the Nikara Empire is at peace. After the First Poppy War, the technologically sophisticated Federation controlled Nikan for several years, and it only narrowly lost the continent in the Second. A Third Poppy War is only a spark away, but most people are content to go about their lives without thinking twice.

The only chance for saving Rin's people may lie in her shamanic abilities. She worries that winning the conflict will cost her humanity and that it may already be too late as she learns more about the furious Phoenix, the God who has chosen her.

My Review

I was utterly speechless after finishing the book.

This work of adult high fantasy is quite dramatic and skillfully integrates aspects of Chinese history.

All of the characters have such rich, complex personalities. The book had the perfect pacing and was action-packed. Because Rin is brave, tenacious, and strong, I absolutely admire her. One of the best female protagonists I've ever had to deal with, Rin, has truly grown into.

I would say that this work is greatly influenced by Chinese and Asian culture because I am Asian and am familiar with the culture. I sometimes lose track of the fact that this book is merely fiction because so many of the events and words seem so commonplace to me.

Because the author is so adept at building tension and establishing the mood, she simply relishes twisting the knife even farther once the action begins. I was never sure where to be glad or terrified since I was always on the lookout and unsure of whether everything was a farce or another lie. My expectations had been sorely disappointed and perplexed that I had to sit rapt with attention repeatedly in an effort to regain my composure.

Its portrayal of imperialism, brutality, colonialism, and war through the lens of the Nanking Massacre is perhaps its most important contribution. This story is most definitely not for the faint of heart because of how historically accurate the fighting scenarios detailed in it are.

Not to mention, I can't even begin to describe how anxious I am to continue this series! The reading must be completed despite being difficult.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : The Preacher's Unexpected Bride (Walton Valley #2)

Author        : Catherine Kennedy

Pub Date    : January, 2022

Pages          : 164

My Rating   : ★★★★

The Summary

He is the preacher who is constructing his cabin right next to her, and she is single and expecting! Can Hannah and Luke put aside their differences and find happiness in the end?

Together with her sister, Hannah Fairchild fled from her cruel guardians. They had cohabited in a young neighborhood in the middle of the Kansas plains. Hannah was content with her isolation up until the time a preacher came in next door.

Luke Johnson considers himself to be a preacher; it is more than just his profession. If only he could convince Hannah to stop leaving when she sees him, he would be able to restore her faith.

Can Luke soothe Hannah's anguish from her past when circumstances bring them together and win Hannah over to himself?

My Review

It was wonderful to read this second book in the Walton Valley series. This book tells Hannah's story.

I adored the neighboring matchmaker who recognizes Hannah and Luke's equal reliance on one another. Luke's patience, faith, and belief in Hannah help Hannah realize that she is worthy of love and happiness.

As the story unfolds, you will discover how God shapes Hannah and Luke's narrative by going through it with them. Numerous experiences are in store.

The supporting cast has a great sense of humor. There are some unexpected twists in this tale. It's a sweet romance that really captured my attention. Despite the fact that some of the story's themes may have been overdone a bit, I loved the motivational themes of forgiving others, feeling regret, and the need to accept happiness.

Despite being the second book in the series, you may read this one on its own. I appreciate Booksirens giving me a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own; I was not obligated to write a nice review.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : Norse Mythology

Author        : Neil Gaiman

Pub Date    : February 07, 2017

Pages          : 301

My Rating   : ★★★★

The Summary

The imaginative worlds of Neil Gaiman's literature have long been influenced by ancient mythology, and he gives a brilliant account of the Norse gods and their world, from their creation to Ragnarok's upheaval.

Gaiman depicts the main Norse pantheon in Norse Mythology while staying true to the myths: Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin's son, incredibly strong but not the wisest of gods; and Loki, son of a giant, blood brother to Odin and a trickster and unbeatable manipulator.

Gaiman crafts these ancient tales into a narrative arc that starts with the creation of the fabled nine planets and dives into the exploits of gods, dwarves, and giants. These long-forgotten traditions are given new life by Gaiman's sharp and hilarious prose, which helps these gods come to life with their fiercely competitive personalities, propensity to deceive both themselves and others, and tendency to let love drive their actions.

My Review

Having previously been utterly intrigued and obsessed with mythology, I genuinely like this book. I'm so immensely sentimental about my happy childhood memories after reading this book.

The actual book is made up of a few short stories about the Norse gods. I like how the gods aren't presented as perfect beings, but rather as complex people.

Because of the format, it was quick and easy to read and provided the feeling that you were listening to a story before bed. The language is lovely, not particularly modern but still understandable, and it doesn't feel at all onerous to read. It appears to last.

I believe Neil Gaiman does a pretty good job of picking one's interest in the Norse here. I believe this is where you should start learning Norse.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : Isle of Dragons (The Hidden Library)

Author        : L.A. Thompson

Pub Date    : August 05, 2022

Pages          : -

My Rating   : ★★★★★

The Summary

The beloved steampunk heroine of L.A. Thompson is back in this vividly creative search for the enigmatic magic library that would enable her to defeat the evil King Jarrod.

Childhood friends who are now adversaries, Jade and Kaylen, search for a doorway at the library tower that would either destroy or preserve their world. Kaylen must make a choice on what and who she is ready to give up in order to carry out the king's instructions and recover what she has lost. Can the dragon-taming sorceress Miria, the realistic pod inventor Dan, and Jade work together in a time-sensitive effort to prevent Kaylen from opening the portal between realms before it is too late?

New foes and pals are introduced in Jade's next journey, which is jam-packed with action-packed challenges unlike anything she has ever encountered before. Hold on tight as enigmatic details about the Isle of Dragons and its residents emerge.

My Review

This book is just as good as the cover page.

Of course, what I like best about a fantasy book is how our imaginations can take us to another world, and this book is successful in accomplishing just that.

Great characters, witty language, and in-depth descriptions of the setting and the events make this a fantastic narrative. Each of these elements contributes to creating a compelling universe for readers.

The author uses great mystical language that transports the reader to a mythological world with a heroic mission that takes Jade, our heroine, on a risky journey to find a hidden library in order to battle King Jarrod.

The story as a whole is jam-packed with puzzles and adventures that will send the reader on a crazy mental spiral and only inspire them to keep reading!

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : Wagon Train Wife (Walton Valley #1)

Author        : Catherine Kennedy

Pub Date    : March 31, 2021

Pages          : 192

My Rating   : ★★★★

The Summary

She will go to any lengths to protect her sister, including getting married to a stranger.

Eliza Fairchild traveled to America from England with her sister and parents with the hope that she would be able to maintain her sheltered, affluent existence there. Eliza and her sister Hannah, however, are in a precarious condition as a result of the passing of their parents and the brutality of their guardians.

After the passing of his young wife soon after their arrival in America, Thomas Flannagan made the pledge to never fall in love again. He suggests a marriage of convenience since he needs a wife and wants to keep the Fairchild sisters safe.

Thomas and Eliza become closer as they work together to build a home in the vast Kansas prairie, but when her sister's history catches up with them, their sweet feelings are endangered.

My Review

Although I've never read anything else by this author, I'll surely read the following books in this series.

The two young girls in this book are focused on leading better lives, which is the book's main theme. Eliza and Hannah were sisters.

I respected Eliza's sense of responsibility to take care of her small sister. She made a wise and appropriate advice at the time to join a wagon train. After learning that a lone female couldn't board the wagon train, Eliza didn't give up. She approached Thomas for help instead, and he agreed to marry her.

The story is realistic and true to life. Because there were so many unexpected twists, a slow-burning romance, and engaging characters, finishing this book was difficult. I liked the author's writing style. Religious themes are deftly woven into the story, where they organically affect the lives of the people.

Although there is rape-related material, it is not particularly detailed. The book's conclusion is when the subject is actually discussed in depth.

The main themes of the narrative are love, forgiveness, and starting afresh. I believe you'll enjoy this if you're looking for a quick historical fiction short narrative.

Through BookSirens, I received a free copy of this book. These are my own personal opinions, and my review is voluntary.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : A Heart for the Homeless

Author        : Annie M. Ballard

Pub Date    : August 15, 2022

Pages          : 278

My Rating   : ★★★★

The Summary

Failure is afflicting Dorie's Pampered Pooch company. She would much prefer be rescuing stranded dogs than trimming their toenails, but she is unable to concede defeat, especially in the presence of her critical sisters. Will a stray dog, a granny in the hospital, and a shy photojournalist reverse her bad luck?

Chad is usually "just a friend" because of his terrible track record with women. But he runs into danger with nothing more than a camera when Dorie's propensity for defending dogs sets her against sketchy characters.

The youngest Madison sister tells a humorous tale of small-town relationships and enemies-turned-lovers who connect over peril and pets.

She is dog-crazy. He adores her.

Can they ever truly fall in love?

My Review

Reading it was enjoyable. The plot was nice and included a few interesting or unexpected issues.

A Heart For the Homeless is a beautiful novel because it brings together an interesting topic with exciting action and comprehensible prose.

The primary theme of the action is animal exploitation, but there are also side issues that are handled in very different ways, such as a romance between enemies and lovers, family strife, fraud, illegal dog fighting, and assistance for senior pet owners.

I wholeheartedly recommend this compelling story to everyone who likes animals and wants to read something brief and inspirational.

I willingly left this review after receiving an advance review copy from BookSirens.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.

Tittle           : Ugly Love

Author        : Colleen Hoover

Pub Date    : August 05, 2014

Pages          : 337

My Rating   : ★

The Summary

Tate Collins doesn't believe she fell in love with airline pilot Miles Archer at first sight. Even if they were to consider themselves pals, they wouldn't. There is no denying that Tate and Miles are attracted to one another. They realize they have the ideal situation once their desires are made clear. The only option left is sex because he doesn't want love and she doesn't have time for love. If Tate can follow the two guidelines Miles has for her, their arrangement might be surprisingly easy.

Do not inquire about the past.

Don't count on the future.

They believe they can handle it, but quickly come to the realization that they cannot.

Hearts are compromised.

There are broken promises.

Rules are broken.

When love is ugly.

My Review

I hate to tell it, but I didn't care for this at all. I am deeply sorry if this offended anyone who appreciates the book because I am aware that this is a very unpopular opinion.

I'm unsure of where to start. The storyline was awkward, monotonous, and occasionally hazy. Was Tate intended to be the lead role? Miles appeared to be the one for whom it was intended to be, whereas Tate was more of a love interest from whom we chance to hear intimate thoughts.

Let's not talk about the sex between Miles and Tate. I don't mind the scene at all, but the way it's written gives the impression that sex is the only method for both sides to effectively communicate.

I didn't really sense Tate and Miles' emotional bond, as much as I would have loved to.

Because there wasn't enough reward, I was unable to care about this couple or believe that everything they endured was worthwhile (despite forcing myself to read about them).

I'm aware that the book Ugly Love depicts the actual, ugly side of love. It didn't do a fantastic job at getting its point over, in all honesty, but I wish it had more character nuance and development.

Anyone should remember that the only way to end a toxic relationship is to begin with the will to let go and accept the situation as it is. Because love is a sensation, you won't be able to use logic effectively if it concerns feelings. You must therefore possess a strong sense of self-respect.

My ratings score:

★★★★★ Fantastic! Made me go through a lot of emotions & the entire book is incredibly beautifully done! 

★★★★ Memorable! Despite its shortcomings, this book was incredible and taught us a lot. 

★★★ Good work! Nothing particularly remarkable, but still nice.

★★ Meh... Mediocre with great room for improvement.

★ Extremely Poor.