PHANTASMA

Phantasma by Kaylie Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I recently read Kaylie Smith's book "Phantasma" and I was completely captivated. From the first page, I was drawn into a world where danger and desire unexpectedly intertwine.

The story revolves around Ophelia, whose sister has vanished. To save her sister, Ophelia must participate in Phantasma, a deadly contest held within a haunted mansion. The prize is a single wish, but the rules are straightforward: stay alive and don't fall in love. As Ophelia faces nine difficult challenges, she meets Blackwell, a mysterious and alluring stranger who offers to guide her for a price. Their growing attraction complicates an already dangerous game where losing could mean more than just death.

"Phantasma" is a perfect blend of dark fantasy and romance that kept me on the edge of my seat. Ophelia, the determined protagonist, is a symbol of strength and vulnerability. Her journey through the haunted mansion is rife with peril, with each challenge being more harrowing than the last. The mansion itself is like a character, with its shifting corridors and eerie ballrooms creating a sense of claustrophobic dread.

Blackwell, with his enigmatic charm and morally gray nature, adds complexity to the story. The chemistry between Ophelia and Blackwell is tangible, and their forbidden romance is both thrilling and heart-wrenching. Smith's writing is lyrical and immersive, painting vivid pictures of the haunted mansion and the horrors within.

What I loved most about "Phantasma" was its ability to surprise me. Just when I thought I had figured out the next twist, Smith would throw in a curveball that left me reeling. The stakes are high, and the emotional depth of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. The themes of love, sacrifice, and survival are skillfully woven into the narrative, making it a compelling read.

In conclusion, "Phantasma" is a thrilling journey through a world where love and survival are constantly at odds. If you're a fan of dark fantasy with a touch of romance, this book is a must-read. Just be prepared to lose yourself in its hauntingly beautiful pages.

In the labyrinth of Phantasma, where shadows whisper and hearts betray, the bravest souls find that the most dangerous game is the one played with love.”

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Avalon Tower

Avalon Tower by C.N. Crawford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I recently stepped into the ancient and gothic halls of Avalon Tower, and let me tell you—it was a journey that whisked me away from reality and into a realm where magic hums in the air like a forgotten melody.
Our protagonist Nia starts her European vacation with simple aspirations: beachside reading and champagne sipping. But fate has other plans, involving fey, espionage, and a dash of danger. Enter Raphael, an arrogant, silver-eyed fey who kidnaps Nia and reveals her hidden magic. Suddenly, she’s enrolled in an elite spy academy within the very tower that bears the book’s name.
The rules are clear: spy on the fey, resist falling for your mentor (easier said than done when Raphael is the epitome of lethal sexiness), and—most importantly—don’t die. Romance is forbidden; distractions are deadly. As Nia and Raphael ventured into the Fey realm, I found myself holding my breath, torn between their chemistry and the stakes that threaten humanity itself.
C.N. Crawford paints this world with a deft hand. The ancient stones of Avalon Tower whispered secrets, and the brutal competitions among its students echoed through its gothic corridors. The tension between Nia and Raphael—part mentor, part enigma—kept me turning pages late into the night. Forbidden love, dangerous allure, and the weight of destiny—weaved together like threads in a magical tapestry.
And oh, the fey realm! It shimmered with enchantment, danger lurking behind every tree, and secrets buried in moonlit glades. I felt the chill of snowflakes on my skin and the pull of ancient magic tugging at my heartstrings.
In summary, Avalon Tower was absolutely PHENOMENAL and everything I needed to pull me out of my reading slump. If you’re craving a medium-paced fantasy romance with fey intrigue, this book is your ticket. Just be prepared to lose yourself in the silver-eyed gaze of a certain fey mentor.


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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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