Under the Light of the Italian Moon by Jennifer Anton is an absolutely mesmerizing journey through time and emotion that deserves every bit of its 5 stars. Based on true events that occurred in Northern Italy between the wars, this is a masterfully crafted historical novel filled with love, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit.
Heritage by Holli Gregory follows seventeen-year-old Grace Chamberlain as she discovers her lineage as a descendant of Greek gods, facing sinister attacks and impending supernatural powers. While the concept is compelling and reminiscent of Percy Jackson, the execution could benefit from smoother pacing, deeper character development, and a more satisfying conclusion. Overall, it offers an entertaining blend of mythology, adventure, and contemporary challenges.
The Best-Laid Plans by Sarah M. Eden is a delightful historical romance portraying a strategic matchmaking scheme that unexpectedly leads to love. Set in a charming historical backdrop, the story follows Newton and Ellie as they navigate familial and societal expectations. The novel offers wonderful character development, endearing protagonists, palpable chemistry, and an adorable friends-to-lovers storyline.
In Sage, Rosemary, and Time, pianist Rosemary’s life is disrupted by family obligations and a mysterious discovery in a magical bookshop. This historical romance with a time-travel twist captivates with wonderful world-building and an enchanting writing style, but suffers from uneven pacing and unresolved threads. Ideal for fans of romance and time-bending elements.
In The Guard of Adriane, Eric, an orphan turned bodyguard, and Princess Diana navigate a forbidden romance amid threats to their safety. The novel’s execution falls short of its promising premise, with forced interactions, unrealistic moments, excessive descriptions, and exaggerated drama. However, it may appeal to fans of royal romance.
Eye of Hawk is the second book in Blanka H. Madow’s Precious Stones series, following Valeri’s quest for revenge and her desire to reunite with her sister. The story delves deeper into Valeri’s magical abilities, offering vivid storytelling and suspense. With engaging characters and a touch of darkness, the book ends with an enticing cliffhanger.
Bleeding Love by J.S. Hart is a dark fantasy novella, intricately weaving the lives of Celeste, a vengeful witch, and Roman, a forlorn vampire. Their entwined desires and hatred create a tantalizing narrative enriched by morally grey characters and intense chemistry. With a compelling cliffhanger, this prequel to “The Soulless Witch” series offers a wild, captivating ride.
J.P. Feather’s Crescent Phase, first in the Moon Academy series, blends ordinary struggles with the supernatural. Arabella’s upheaval after a fire and a mysterious note from her owl companion hint at a magical world. While pacing and tense shifts challenge readability, the entwined characters and suspense keep readers hooked.
Mother of Pearl by Blanka H. Madow follows Valeri, who discovers her ancestral power after being separated from her sister in a foreign land. The book offers descriptive world-building; slow, but promising, character development; and evocative writing with morally grey themes. The story leaves readers wanting more and holds great potential for the series.
Aislinn, a governess to orphaned twins, proposes a marriage of convenience to their maverick uncle, Luke, in order to stay with the children. What begins as a practical arrangement evolves into a deep and unexpected connection, showcasing the power of love and resilience. Set in London and Montana during the Victorian Era, this emotional historical romance promises vivid descriptions and wonderful character development.
Magic and Medicine by Olena Nikitin is a captivating blend of urban fantasy, romance, and Slavic mythology. Set in Gdansk, Poland, the story follows the intense and steamy relationship between Sara and Leszek, the Tricity Mafia boss. With vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue, the book promises an exciting series ahead.
