INTHE HEART OF LINDEN WOOD

In the Heart of the Linden Wood by Ekta R. Garg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading "In the Heart of Linden Wood" by Ekta R. Garg. It's a captivating fantasy novel that takes you on a journey to the enchanting kingdom of Linden. The story revolves around King Christopher, who inherits a kingdom renowned for its magical wood, which cannot be used for weapons or ill intentions. However, the kingdom faces turmoil as the magic preserving the trees falters, and an unknown disease spreads through the forest.

What I Loved:
Rich World-Building: Garg's vivid descriptions bring the kingdom of Linden to life. The magical wood, the ancient trees, and the mystical elements are beautifully crafted, creating an immersive reading experience.
Character Development: King Christopher's journey from a grieving husband to a determined leader is compelling. His internal struggles and growth are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The supporting characters, including the healer Geraldine and her son, add layers to the narrative.
Themes of Redemption and Legacy: The novel explores profound themes such as redemption, the burden of legacy, and the struggle to overcome past mistakes. Christopher's efforts to redeem his father's ruthless reign and restore the kingdom's magic are central to the plot.

Areas for Improvement:
Pacing: While the story engages, some sections could benefit from tighter pacing. Certain scenes, especially those involving exposition, slow down the narrative.
Loose Ends: A few plot points, such as the conflict resolution with Lemuel and Celia's wish at the wishing well, feel unresolved. Addressing these would enhance the overall coherence of the story.

Final Thoughts:
"In the Heart of Linden Wood" is a beautifully written fantasy novel that weaves together magic, mystery, and emotional depth. Ekta R. Garg's storytelling prowess shines through, making this book a delightful read for fans of the genre. Despite minor flaws, the novel's rich world-building and compelling character arcs make it a memorable journey into the heart of Linden.

I hope you enjoy your adventure in the magical kingdom of Linden!



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Dreams in Time

Dreams in Time: A Romantasy Sleeping Beauty Re-telling by Kenzie Skye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Introducing 'Dreams in Time' by Kenzie Skye! This novella is a captivating romantic retelling of Sleeping Beauty that flawlessly blends romance, fantasy, and adventure.

Imagine a quiet library, a librarian leading a content life surrounded by books, and one fateful night that changes everything. Her dreams of a medieval kingdom and a slumbering princess become vividly real, and she wakes up not in her own time, but inhabiting the body of the cursed Princess Aveline.

The peaceful life of a librarian is swiftly replaced by the harsh realities of medieval existence—castles, courtly intrigues, and the challenge of concealing her true identity. Enter Prince Alaric, a charming and dashing figure who believes he's falling in love with the slumbering princess, complicating matters further.

At the heart of the story lies the quest to break the curse binding the real Princess Aveline, intertwining the fate of our librarian-turned-princess with hers. Expect sacrifice, love, and magic as she grapples with her own emotions.

Dreams in Time is a spellbinding novella that seamlessly weaves together fairy tale elements, new adult romance, and time travel. If you enjoyed The Selection series by Kiera Cass, you will find echoes of its magic within these pages. With tension, witty banter, and the promise of true love, this story offers a delightful escape into the timeless allure of fairy tales, inviting readers to step beyond reality’s veil.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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The Drums of Unrest by J.P. Corwyn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Drums of Unrest In the sweeping Cycle of Bones series, The Drums of Unrest takes center stage, following the prequel novella, The Dawn of Unions. If you’re drawn to unlikely heroes, gritty battles, and the struggle for survival, then J.P. Corwyn’s return to the world of Skolf awaits you.

Truth and Power:
Truth possesses an inherent power—one that can ripple across miles and worlds without the speaker ever realizing it.
The true enemy, the one that truly matters, has spent centuries biding his time from somewhere outside. His agents have patiently gathered power and influence for the day he would return.
That day is almost upon us. It began with the Red Storm at Westsong. In the wake of that nightmare, the foundations of power all across Skolf begin to crumble.
Kaith and his fellows must fight the phantoms of their own minds, even as County Thorion prepares for the war to come. When all choices seem ill-fated, a man born to the spear is forced to make an impossible choice.

In a world where truth reverberates like distant drums, The Drums of Unrest is a must-read for fans of dark military fantasy. It offers a thrilling blend of action, intrigue, and profound moral dilemmas. From the first page to the last, this book promises to captivate and leave its mark on your imagination.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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THE TESTAMENT OF ABIGAIL WILLIAMS

The Testament of Abigail Williams by Rosanna Moss
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"The Testament of Abigail Williams" by Rosanna Moss is an intriguing novel that intertwines history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural. Let's explore the heart of this captivating story.

In the quiet town of Salem Village, a wooden doll, an ancient vase with a strange mist inside, and an old journal are unearthed from a buried trunk in the Williams family garden. Fifteen-year-old Abi discovers that she is the only one able to read the journal—a firsthand account written by Abigail Williams herself. Abigail's words reveal her life before, during, and after the infamous Salem Witch Crisis of 1692.

However, as Abi, her brother Ben, and her sister Nicola explore the secrets within the journal, they realize that a malevolent force has been unleashed. Suspicion falls on the wooden doll, and events threaten to spiral out of control. Abi and her friends must contain this evil before it becomes too powerful.

What Works:
- Relatable Characters: Abi, our young protagonist, is instantly relatable. Her journey resonates with nostalgia for her teenage years.
- Simplicity of Writing: The storytelling isn't elaborate, but it doesn't need to be. It's an entertaining, enjoyable read.
- Present-Day Mystery: While historical elements are present, much of the story unfolds in the present day, making it accessible to a wide audience.

What Could Be Better:
- Pacing: Some sections could benefit from a faster pace, especially during exposition.
- World-Building: More detailed descriptions of both the virtual and real worlds would enhance immersion.

Final Thoughts:
Rosanna Moss skillfully blends history and mystery in "The Testament of Abigail Williams." If you're intrigued by Salem's witch trials, relatable characters, and a touch of the supernatural, this book is worth exploring. It may not be what you initially expect, but it's an awesome read that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Remember, some secrets are best left buried—unless they hold the key to unraveling malevolent forces. Happy reading

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LAUGHS LAST BY DYLAN BRODY

 

Laughs Last by Dylan Brody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Laughs Last” by Dylan Brody is a poignant exploration of family, legacy, talent, and the fluidity of time. Set against the backdrop of a disjointed timeline, the novel follows the life of our protagonist, Damon Blazer. Here are the key elements that make this book unique:

The Weight of Memory:
There may not be boxes strong enough for the weight of memory, but some books can bear it. “Laughs Last” is one such book.
Damon Blazer’s journey into adulthood unfolds in fits and starts, revealing layers of complexity. His quick mind and instinct to flee (preferably before getting punched) shape his experiences.

Family Lessons:
Blazer’s family laughs never mean just one thing. From his brutish and detached brother to his grieving but understanding mother, each family member imparts lessons.
However, it’s the inheritance of his grandfather’s wisdom that truly forms the backbone of Blazer’s biography.

The Storied Comedian:
Damon’s relationship with a storied comedian adds intrigue. The slow reveal of what happened at his grandfather’s funeral keeps readers engaged.
The disjointed timeline runs like an extended callback, emphasizing the urgency of storytelling.
Stages of Grief Across a Lifetime:
As Damon navigates life, we witness the stages of grief revealed across decades. Memories enlarge through tunnel vision or the actual weight of time.
Is nostalgia a water-colored feeling available at any age, or does it flow with the facts of chronology?

Avoiding Foolishness and Hacks:
Blazer fumbles to avoid feeling foolish, being a hack, and living a lifetime of mediocrity.
In this journey, we meet a novelist for a new century—Dylan Brody.

In “Laughs Last,” Brody deftly weaves humor, vulnerability, and introspection. The novel invites readers to ponder the enduring impact of laughter, the weight of memories, and the passage of time.



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