100 Pages A Day.... Stephanie's Book Reviews

Windswept

10/18/2021

About the Book:
WINDSWEPT
BY ANNABELLE MCCORMACK
Publication Date: September 21, 2021
Paperback & eBook; 438 pages
Series: The Windswept Saga, Book One
Genre: Historical Fiction

A British nurse in WWI Egypt races to deliver explosive intelligence that could change the course of the war in this novel of suspense, adventure, and love.

May, 1917. Ginger Whitman left a life of wealth and privilege in England to train as a battlefield nurse and serve in the Great War. Working on the brutal frontlines in Palestine, she finds a wounded soldier hiding in her camp. The soldier claims to carry intelligence unmasking a secret plot against the British—and that traitors within British intelligence are searching for him. Desperate and dying, the soldier entrusts a coded message to her care.

Ginger is hurled into an unfamiliar world of intrigue and murder amidst the war-ravaged Arabian desert. She’s determined to help her country but trusting the wrong person could cost her life. Then the arrival of mysterious and handsome British intelligence officer Major Noah Benson offers a chance of help. But Noah may be as dangerous as he is charming. As she’s swept away by stolen moments on the desert sands, Ginger realizes her heart may also be at risk.

Hunted by a shadowy enemy spy, Ginger must decide if she can trust Noah. But as she grapples with her decision, Ginger makes a shocking discovery: a sinister secret that threatens to shatter the world she thought she knew.

AMAZON | APPLE | BARNES AND NOBLE | BOOKS2READ | KOBO

Praise
“Chock-full of secrets and spies, love and betrayal, danger and adventure, all of which is set against the devastating backdrop of WWI, Windswept by Annabelle McCormack is a sumptuous, fast-paced, and riveting read that’ll have you cheering for the heroine until the very end.” -Hannah Mary McKinnon, internationally bestselling author of Sister Dear and You Will Remember Me

“A neophyte nurse becomes an accidental but effective spy in this gripping adventure.” -Kirkus Reviews

“Windswept is a whirlwind of an adventure. From the edge-of-your seat suspense, to the passionate romance…you won’t be able to put this book down!” -Lisa Boyle, author of Signed, A Paddy

“Windswept is a delightful, ripsnorting adventure with a feisty heroine, a breathless pace, and endless adventure, intrigue, and romance. You will smile from cover to cover. This will remind you how enjoyable a good book can be.” –William Bernhardt, bestselling author of the Ben Kincaid series

“Suspenseful, sexy, and moving, Windswept is a great choice for those looking for strong female leads in their historical fiction. Ginger will inspire you; the story will enthrall you, and the passionate romance will win you over.” -Samantha Hui, Independent Book Review

Review:
Ginger Whitman has been nursing in Palestine during the Great War. Taking care of wounded soldiers in the desert is a far cry from her usual life in London as Lady Virginia Whitman. However, nursing has become a passion for Ginger and her compassion leads her to trouble as Ginger hastily helps a wounded Turkish soldier hiding in camp. The soldier claims that he is a British ally with important information to pass on and entrusts Ginger with it. Ginger believes that calling her father, who works in the Foreign Office in Cairo will help, but her ex-fiancé Stephen shows up instead. Not long after, British intelligence officer, Major Noah Benson also comes in search of Ginger's patient. Not knowing who to trust, Ginger guards her secret as she is swept into the world of espionage and danger.

Windswept is a suspenseful historical romance mixed with thrilling spy espionage. From the moment Ginger entered the scene, I knew things would be exciting. Ginger's character is determined, intelligent and brave. Ginger's consciousness is constantly pulling her in the right direction. I was very focused on Ginger's decision making as everyone around her was being deceitful. secretive, manipulative and purposefully withholding information. Told from Ginger's point of view, I was also in the dark about which characters to trust and their motives with the information Ginger's soldier relayed to her. I absolutely have to mention the romance in the story. Noah is not an easy character to love and Ginger's actions with Noah are constantly back and forth depending on the knowledge she has. Everything about their relationship was steeped in suspense and I just wanted someone to tell the poor woman the truth earlier. However, Ginger can hold her own and despite a series of difficult decisions, she makes it out on the right side. The writing transported me to the desert environment where I could feel the sand surrounding me. I did not know a lot about the fighting on this front during World War I and the objectives of the operatives in the area. While Ginger was wrapped up in fictional assignments, the reality of the war surrounding her was very true. Windswept is a sweeping historical romance with plenty of action and adventure in the Middle Eastern Theatre of World War I.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

Annabelle McCormack writes historical women’s fiction with epic settings, adventure, and romance. Her debut book Windswept, a novel about a British WWI nurse in the Middle East caught in a dangerous web of intrigue and romance, will be published September 2021.

She was born in San Jose, Costa Rica to a Costa Rican mother and American father. She moved to the US at the age of 4, but remains fully bilingual in English and Spanish. She studied at the Johns Hopkins University, where she obtained a Master of Arts in Fiction in 2010. Afterward, she dedicated herself to her photography business, while continuing to work on her
writing as a long-term goal. In 2018, she received the award for Best Novel at the 2018 Red Sneaker’s Writer Conference (now Writer-Con). She lives in Maryland with her husband and five children and writes as a staff blogger for Inkitt Writer’s Blog.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

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Champagne Widows

10/10/2021

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About the Book:
CHAMPAGNE WIDOWS
BY REBECCA ROSENBERG
eBook Publication Date: October 1, 2021
Lion Heart Publishing
Genre: Historical Fiction

Triple-gold-medal-winning author Rebecca Rosenberg serves up a triumphant tale of talent and ambition, love and loss, betrayal and redemption, and accepting yourself and others for who they are.

Champagne, France, 1800

Twenty-year-old Barbe-Nicole has inherited Le Nez (an uncanny sense of smell that makes her picky, persnickety, and particularly perceptive) from her great-grandfather, a renowned champagne maker.

Her parents, however, see Le Nez as a curse and try to marry her off to an unsuspecting suitor. But Barbe-Nicole is determined to use Le Nez to make great champagne. When she learns her childhood sweetheart, François Clicquot, wants to start a winery, she rejects her parents’ suitors and marries François despite his mental illness.

The Widow Known as Veuve Clicquot

Soon, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot must cope with her husband’s death. Becoming a widow known as Veuve Clicquot, she grapples with a new overbearing partner, the difficulties of making champagne and the Napoleon Codes preventing women from owning a business.

All this while her father takes a military uniform contract from Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, who wages six wars against European monarchs, crippling Veuve Clicquot’s ability to sell her champagne.

Challenging Napoleon

Using Le Nez, Veuve Clicquot struggles through unbearable hardships and challenges Napoleon himself. When she falls in love with her sales manager, Louis Bohne, who asks her to marry, she must choose between losing her winery to her husband, as dictated by Napoleon Code or losing Louis. In the ultimate showdown, Veuve Clicquot risks imprisonment and even death as she defies Napoleon.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Praise
“For anyone who loves champagne, a must-read novel about Veuve Clicquot.”

~ Judithe Little, best-selling author of The Chanel Sisters”These first known women ofChampagne/Sparkling winemaking may not have even realized how strong they wereuntil they had to learn and do it all to survive for themselves and theirwineries! Reading Champagne Widows makes it even more of an honor tolearn a craft still dominated by men.” ~ Penny Gadd-Coster, ExecutiveDirector of Winemaking, Rack & Riddle

“The sun-drenched vineyards of France, a real-life heroine who against all odds refuses to give up her dreams… and champagne. What’s not to love? And that’s just what Rebecca Rosenberg delivers in Champagne Widows. Barbe-Nicole Clicquot was a woman ahead of her time, a fascinating blend of ingenuity, heart, and sheer tenacity, with a nose for wine and a head for business. A 19th century widow who built an empire as war raged all around her. Note: This richly woven tale is best savored slowly, though with all delicious things, it won’t be easy.” ~ Barbara Davis, best-selling author of The Last of the Moon Girls.

“Champagne Widows is a witty, accomplished novel, featuring a tough and charming heroine of the first order. One can’t help but root for Barbe-Nicole, an astute businesswoman who brilliantly holds her own against none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. Although the events unfold two centuries ago, the story feels so modern, the characters could be your friends and neighbors. As easy to love as a glass of Veuve Clicquot, this may be Rebecca Rosenberg’s best book yet.” ~ Michelle Richmond, best-selling author of The Marriage Pact

“Champagne Widows is an inspired story based on the real-life Grande Dame of Champagne, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, who built her famous champagne empire amidst the turbulence of 19th century France. Barbe-Nicole is my kind of heroine: a woman with passion, courage, family loyalty, and a killer business sense. Rebecca Rosenberg’s sensual details make every scene of this intimate novel come alive. A true reading pleasure!” ~ Martha Conway, best-selling author of The Underground River and The Physician’s Daughter

“Award-winning author, Rebecca Rosenberg returns with another Historical Fiction jewel in CHAMPAGNE WIDOWS. Meet the women who succeeded in creating world class champagne in a time men ruled business and society. Lovers of history, romance, and French culture will relish the multi-layered plot and cast of characters including the ultimate French icon, Napoleon Bonaparte.” ~ Johnnie Bernhard, award-winning author of Sisters of the Undertow

“An epic story featuring love, family, and the sustaining power of courage. Champagne Widows takes the reader back in time for an intimate look at the building of the iconic brand Veuve Clicquot. In the aftermath of Napoleon’s rise to power, Barbe-Nicole and her husband Francois share a vision of creating a champagne that will astound the world. Despite war, death, blockades, and failed harvests, Barbe-Nicole ultimately succeeds.” ~ M.K. Tod, author of Paris In Ruins and award-winning blog A Writer of History

“Raise a glass to Veuve Clicquot and all the women from history to the present, who have broken the mold and overcome obstacles to succeed in all-male professions. Just as a champagne bottle pops bringing delectable flavors and delicious aromas, Rebecca Rosenberg delights the senses with her engrossing novel. She treats the reader to a perfect blend of history and story – with lots of champagne! Sit back and savor the tale of Veuve Clicquot. ” ~ Linda Rosen, author of Sisters of the Vine

“Rebecca Rosenberg has penned a spectacular saga about the first “Champagne widow” of France, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot. With her gift, known as Le Nez (the nose), Barbe-Nicole can “smell the stink of a lie or the perfume of a pure heart. Or the heartbreaking smell of what could have been.” Along with her expertise, she possesses courage and vision, overcoming incredible odds during the time of the Napoleonic Code, which left widows without property rights—in Barbe-Nicole’s case, her Champagne business. Seamlessly interwoven with historical letters from Napoleon, the book sweeps the reader into the early nineteenth-century world. But it’s her imaginative tale of Veuve Clicquot’s personal life that captured me and wouldn’t let go until the end, leaving me wanting more!” ~ Susan Cushman, author of John and Mary Margaret

“An independent woman of indomitable strength, determined to find her way in a man’s world. Champagne Widows is vintage storytelling.” ~ Jean M. Roberts, author of The Heron

“Rebecca Rosenberg transforms history into literary art. Her prose sparkles, bringing centuries-old characters to life with wit, heart and bon mots. Treat yourself to Champagne Widows, and marvel at Rosenberg’s gift for making every sense sing.” ~ Carol Van Den Hende, award-winning author of Goodbye, Orchid

“Like the best wines, Rosenberg’s Champagne Widows will entice you with its complexity as it balances the story of a widow’s determination to produce the world’s greatest champagne in the face of Napoleon’s path of destruction. If you love France, historical fiction, underdog stories, strong women, or wine, then pop a cork to celebrate this perfect blend of a novel.” ~ Mary Helen Sheriff, author of Boop and Eve’s Road Trip

Review:
Barbe-NIcole is either cursed or blessed with Le Nez, an impressive sense of smell which is wonderful for winemaking, but makes everyday life difficult. As Barbe-Nicole ages, her mother is desperate to marry her off; however, Barbe-Nicole is holding out for her neighbor, Francois Clicquot to return from fighting in Napoleon's First Coalition War. When Francois does return, he is changed from the horrors of war and Barbe-Nicole's father has made a business deal to marry Barbe-Nicole to a business associate. Barbe-NIcole rejects the deal and marries Francois, supporting his dream of starting a winery. Francois and Barbe-Nicole find happiness, but Francois' mental illness eventually wins as he commits suicide. Barbe-Nicole is now a widow or Veuve and the Napoleon Codes prevent her from running a business. Barbe-Nicole finds an unlikely way to prevail under the worst of circumstances. Using Le Nez as her guide, Veuve Clicquot finds a way to produce extraordinary wine and sell it to countries at war, defying Napoleon himself.

Champagne Widows tells the effervescent story of the real life Champagne entrepreneur, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot. I immediately recognized the Clicquot name, but had no idea of the Champagne's heritage. Barbe-Nicole and the other women who worked the vineyard were ahead of their time and pioneers for women owned and operated businesses. The writing is immersive and very well researched. For a large portion of Barbe-Nicole's life, Napoleon's Coalition Wars were raging. As Napoleon's victories and defeats ravage Europe, Barbe-Nicole and her business are affected by each move that Napoleon makes. I appreciated the few chapters from Napoleon's point of view to balance out his thought process with the destruction that he was causing throughout France. Chapters from Barbe-Nicole's point of view showed the intense emotions that she had at every point in her journey and drive that Barbe-Nicole possessed in order to make her business successful. Overall, an amazing story of an equally amazing woman and the challenges she overcame to bring the world great tasting Champagne.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

California native Rebecca Rosenberg lives on a lavender farm with her family in Sonoma, the Valley of the Moon, where she and her husband founded the largest lavender product company in America. A long-time student of Jack London’s work and an avid fan of his daring wife, Charmian, Rosenberg is a graduate of the Stanford Writing Certificate Program. Her books include: GOLD DIGGER, the Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor, The Secret Life of Mrs. London, Lavender Fields of America, and the Champagne Widows series.

For more information, please visit Rebecca’s website and blog. You can also find
her on Amazon, BookBub, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads.

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Stalker Stalked

9/22/2021

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About Stalker Stalked

• Publisher: All Due Respect (September 17, 2021)

• E-book: 286 pages

Lexi Mazur is a depressed, alcoholic, pill-popper whose only joy has become her reality TV shows, often fantasizing that the people on TV are a part of her world. After her boyfriend Steve leaves her, she fixates on the show Socialites and its star Magnolia Artois, following every facet of the girl’s life on social media in the hopes of befriending and becoming more like her.

But stalking isn’t new to Lexi. She ultimately won over her ex Steve by following and manipulating every minute detail about him so he’d fall for her. In fact, she landed her other ex-boyfriend Jeremy in the same way. Being a pharma rep, she’s used to manipulation to get doctors to buy her drugs, along with the perk of saving pills for herself.

But what happens when the stalker gets stalked?

Recently, Lexi has felt someone watching her: in her apartment in Queens, at her job. At first, she thinks her mind’s playing tricks, but the watcher is behaving just like she would. And soon they begin leaving threatening clues like she starts to do to Magnolia once her obsession grows more dangerous. Is it one of her exes out for revenge? Her only real friend from childhood who she’s always had an unhealthy rivalry? A detective who may have figured her out? The reality star Magnolia trying to turn the tables? Or even someone she might not know?

Lexi learns the only way to beat her stalker is to use her own stalking prowess to outsmart them at their own game. But has she finally met her match?

Social Media

#StalkerStalked @tlcbooktours and @leematthewgoldberg.

Purchase Links

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Review

Lexi Mazur has spent her adult life following around people that she hoped she could be with. She stalks potential boyfriends and glamorous people she hopes to be friends with. Lexi works as a sales rep for big pharma and has been sampling the pills that put her in a haze and lift her mood. She is obsessed with reality TV and has found that her new favorite show, Socialites, films near her in New York City. After a breakup with her boyfriend, Lexi zeroes in on Socialites star, Magnolia. After sufficient stalking, Lexi meets Magnolia but is rejected. This only makes Lexi buff up her stalking efforts; however, as Lexi focuses on Magnolia, she begins to receive threatening phone calls and mysterious packages. Could it be that she is being stalked or is it a side effect of the pills? Is this exactly what Lexi wanted all along?

Stalker Stalked is a psychological thriller that focuses on very contemporary problems. Lexi's obsession with reality tv and overuse of social media are things that many of us can connect with. The writing pulled me into Lexi's life and her personality. Lexi is a wonderful and deep character. She is like watching a car crash or a dumpster fire, you know you should look away, but there is something intriguing in the chaos. Even though Lexi seems like an absolute garbage person, we see how her childhood has led her to this place of resentment and depression. Through her stalking episodes, I could also see her desperation to be liked and be part of a group. One of the other interesting characters was Lexi's one friend, Pria. I was amazed at Pria's ability to deal with Lexi at her worst and stick the friendship out. Lexi's drug habit made her an unreliable narrator and the suspense increased in the second half of the book as Lexi believes that she is being stalked as well. With a very unexpected ending and many twists and turns, Stalker Stalked is a unique and captivating psychological thriller.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About Lee Matthew Goldberg

Lee Matthew Goldberg is the author of THE ANCESTOR, THE DESIRE CARD, SLOW DOWN and THE MENTOR from St. Martin’s Press. He has been published in multiple languages and nominated for the 2018 Prix du Polar. ORANGE CITY, his first sci-fi novel, is forthcoming in 2021 along with his YA series RUNAWAY TRAIN. His pilots and screenplays have been finalists in Script Pipeline, Book Pipeline, Stage 32, We Screenplay, the New York Screenplay, Screencraft, and the Hollywood Screenplay contests. After graduating with an MFA from the New School, his writing has also appeared in the anthology DIRTY BOULEVARD, The Millions, Vol 1. Brooklyn, LitReactor, Necessary Fiction, Fiction Writer’s Review, The Montreal Review, The Adirondack Review, Essays & Fictions, The New Plains Review, and others. He is the co-curator of The Guerrilla Lit Reading Series (guerrillalit.wordpress.com). He lives in New York City.

Follow him at leematthewgoldberg.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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The Whirlpools of Time

9/8/2021

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About the Book:
THE WHIRLPOOLS OF TIME
BY ANNA BELFRAGE
Publication Date: June 11, 2021
Timelight Press
Series: The Locket, Book One
Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish/Time Travel

He hoped for a wife. He found a companion through time and beyond.

It is 1715 and for Duncan Melville something fundamental is missing from his life. Despite a flourishing legal practice and several close friends, he is lonely, even more so after the recent death of his father. He needs a wife—a companion through life, someone to hold and be held by. What he wasn’t expecting was to be torn away from everything he knew and find said woman in 2016…

Erin Barnes has a lot of stuff going on in her life. She doesn’t need the additional twist of a stranger in weird outdated clothes, but when he risks his life to save hers, she feels obligated to return the favour. Besides, whoever Duncan may be, she can’t exactly deny the immediate attraction.

The complications in Erin’s life explode. Events are set in motion and to Erin’s horror she and Duncan are thrown back to 1715. Not only does Erin have to cope with a different and intimidating world, soon enough she and Duncan are embroiled in a dangerous quest for Duncan’s uncle, a quest that may very well cost them their lives as they travel through a Scotland poised on the brink of rebellion.

Will they find Duncan’s uncle in time? And is the door to the future permanently closed, or will Erin find a way back?

AMAZON

Review:
In 1715, Duncan Melville felt like he was missing something. As he is riding in a storm one night, Duncan approaches a crossroads where the forces align to bring him exactly where he needs to be. In 2016, Erin Barnes is running from a dangerous crime family that she is trying to expose. Erin believes that the Wilkes family is responsible for her grandmother's death after her grandmother refused to hand over a locket. As Duncan comes crashing into 2016, he saves Erin from the Wilkes' goons. Erin becomes attached to the mystery man who saved her with his sword as she cares for him. Duncan tells Erin his story and they fall fast for one another. Before long, the Wilkes family catches up to them. Erin and Duncan use the locket to fall back into 1715. In 1715, Duncan and Erin are in almost just as much trouble as they get on the wrong side of a man named Hamish Cruikshank, Duncan's uncle has gone missing and the Jacobites are rebelling to get James Stuart back on the throne.

A fast-paced, time-slip romance, The Whirlpools of Time falls right into the action with Duncan's disappointment in his family and falling through time to Erin. I haven't read the previous series, so I did feel like I had missed something important about Duncan and his family. However, once Duncan fell to 2016, I was much more on track. Duncan and Erin had an instant connection and it was clear that they were meant to be. I was amazed that Duncan seemed to integrate into 2016 so well; however, soon he would be back in his time. The mystery of Erin's locket definitely intrigued me, even more so when it took them back to 1715 and a man with an identical locket. I would love to know the origins of the locket and how someone like Cruikshank got their hands on it. 1715 also offered a lot more drama and constant danger; although, none of this stopped Duncan and Erin from near constant lovemaking. The scenes were hot and steamy; however, I felt like I didn't need that many in the story. A constant theme throughout the story that I didn't like was Erin constantly putting herself in dangerous and stupid situations, especially when she was out of her element in 1715. I wish she could have used her intelligence and strength in a different way. I was very interested in the historic Jacobite rebellion of 1715 and the role Erin and Duncan played in it. With a huge cliffhanger, I am interested to see where Erin and Duncan will be brought next.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

Had Anna been allowed to choose, she’d have become a time-traveler. As this was impossible, she became a financial professional with two absorbing interests: history and writing. Anna has authored the acclaimed time travelling series The Graham Saga, set in 17th century Scotland and Maryland, as well as the equally acclaimed medieval series The King’s Greatest Enemy which is set in 14th century England.

More recently, Anna has published The Wanderer, a fast-paced contemporary romantic suspense trilogy with paranormal and time-slip ingredients. While she loved stepping out of her comfort zone (and will likely do so again ) she is delighted to be back in medieval times in her September 2020 release, His Castilian Hawk. Set against the complications of Edward I’s invasion of Wales, His Castilian Hawk is a story of loyalty, integrity—and love.

Find out more about Anna on her website or on her Amazon page. You can also follow her on Facebook or Twitter.

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Dagger Hill

8/17/2021

3 Comments

Dagger Hill
Devon Taylor
Published by: Swoon Reads
Publication date: August 17th 2021
Genres: Mystery, Paranormal, Young Adult

Stranger Things meets One of Us Is Lying in this creepy paranormal mystery about four friends who find themselves hunted by a malevolent presence in their sleepy hometown.

It knows your fear…

Summer, 1989. Four best friends—Gabe, Kimberly, Charlie, and Sonya—are preparing for their last summer together before senior year, after which they’ll all be splitting up to start college in different parts of the country. They make a promise to always find their way back to each other, no matter how far away from their sleepy Pennsylvania hometown they get.

But their plans are destroyed when a plane crashes right on top of their favorite hangout outside of town—and right on top of them.

In the catastrophic aftermath of the incident, Gabe, Sonya and Charlie are plagued by eerie visions and messages from an unknown watcher. They soon realize that the plane crash was no accident, and now they are being hunted by a sinister presence. And everyone is still searching for Kimberly, who has been missing ever since Gabe saw somebody wearing a gas mask carry her out of the woods the day the sky fell down on them…

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play

Review

Not much happens in the town of Windale, Pennsylvania, 1989. There are farms and the scientific agency TerraCorp. Four friends, Charlie, Gabe, Sonya and Kimberly are trying to savor their last summer together before senior year. As they picnic together on their favorite hangout spot, Dagger Hill, a plane that has taken off from TerraCorp crashes into the hill. They saw the pilot parachute out before the crash, but something else was in the plane and it took Kimberly with it. Something was unleashed on Dagger Hill that is affecting the residents of Windale. Gabe, Sonya and Charlie desperately try to find Kimberly and solve the mystery of Dagger Hill.

Dagger Hill is a young adult paranormal mystery that kept me guessing. Told from the alternating viewpoints of three of the teens, I was pulled into the suspense of the forces at play as well as having a great insight into Windale and the different views of the people who lived there. Each of the teens had a different background and economic situation and it was nice to see them have a meaningful relationship and truly care for each other. At times, the viewpoints overlapped and I felt like I was reading a bit of what I had just read. The setting of 1989 was not only nostalgic for me, but created a great atmosphere with emerging technology, but not a technologically savvy population. The mystery of Dagger Hill was well crafted as we learned little by little from different sources. The Bug Man kept me guessing as to what the force could be and its purpose, combined with the strange happenings at TerraCorp there was a perfect recipe for strange and malicious occurrences. I enjoyed watching Gabe, Charlie and Sonya band together to find Kimberly and figure out the purpose of the Bug Man. With an unexpected ending , Dagger Hill creates a perfect summer adventure.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

Author Bio:

Devon Taylor was born in Las Vegas, Nevada and currently lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two daughters. His day job consists of sneaking around the house with ninja-like stealth to avoid waking up his kids. When not writing, reading, or tediously typing out text messages with all the correct spelling and punctuation, he spends his time with his family. THE SOUL KEEPERS is his debut novel.

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Then Came the Thunder

8/7/2021

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About the Book:
THEN CAME THE THUNDER BY RACHAEL HUSZAR
Publication Date: July 2, 2021
eBook; 160 pages
Series: Three Willows, Book 1
Genre: Historical Fantasy

Jessalyn Joy loves her husband, but she can’t help the feelings that arose when he volunteered for the Union army. When he comes back to her in a box instead of on his feet, those feelings complicate even more.

Jessalyn’s mourning period is cut short when something begins to attack the livestock in their small town, and greater dangers begin to threaten their provincial life. Thrown together with the new reverend, one of her own students, and a strange man somehow related to her husband’s passing, Jessalyn must find a way to stop the evils that threaten her husband’s first and ultimately last home.

Set in the Southwestern home front, Huszar blends a taste of fantasy into a startling down-to-earth world, creating a high stakes adventure for this strong female protagonist and her band of amateur sleuths.

AMAZON

Review:
Sam Brooks has deserted the Union Army after seeing too much senseless bloodshed. He vows to make his way to the town that his regiment medic, Saint Joy, grew up in and talked about with reverence. Sam amazingly finds the well hidden oasis town of Three Willows among the deserts of the New Mexican Territory and is told he can board with the school teacher, Jessalyn Joy. Jessalyn is given this task by the Mayor, who feels that Jessalyn hasn't been fitting in especially since the death of her husband. As Sam spends time in Three Willows, he can see why Saint Joy spoke so highly of the town; however, he can't help but notice the strange storms centered above Three Willows and animal mauling that come with them.

Then Came the Thunder is a fast-paced historical fiction mixed with fantasy. From the very beginning, there is a strong sense that something is off with the town of Three Willows and its inhabitants. My interest was kept in the tensions built as the animal mauling increase and affect a child in the town as well as the well crafted secrets that Three Willows three founders seem to be keeping. Jack's presence in Three Willows seems strange, I understand his pilgrimage, but his character is not explored very deeply. I wanted to know more about his past, his time in the Army and his relationship with Sain Joy. The same goes for Jessalyn; I understand her motivation for staying in Three Willows; but I wanted to know more about her relationship with her husband, her life before Three Willows and her time in Three Willows with her husband. I liked the fantasy element that was brought in near the end, I hope it ties in with folklore of the area and is explored more in the next book. The ending wrapped up quickly and explosively, I am definitely interested in seeing where the story goes in the next book.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

Rachael Huszar kept her life steeped in stories from a young age, and she began her own journey in story-making when she reached adulthood. In the time since, she has taken up swimming, roller skating, and consuming tabletop RPG streams. She spends the bulk of her time with her dog, Silo, and works full time as a designer in Dallas, Texas.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

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Grenade Bouquets

8/5/2021

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Grenade Bouquets
Lee Matthew Goldberg
(Runaway Train, #2)
Publication date: August 5th 2021
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult

I had stars in my eyes and I couldnâ€™t see around themâ€¦

The year is 1995 and my parents have finally allowed me to take the summer to tour in a VW van across the country with my boyfriend Evan and our band. Yes, my dream to be a singer became reality. Even with Clarissa, Evanâ€™s jealous ex-girlfriend, as the lead singer, itâ€™s my presence on stage that led us to a major record deal. There are moments youâ€™ll always remember in life, but I canâ€™t imagine anything more cool than hearing your song on the radio for the first time.

But being a Rockstar isnâ€™t as easy as it sounds. Using alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms, nothing but tension surrounded me, hurting my still blossoming relationship, and continued grieving over my sisterâ€™s death.

A love letter to the nineties and a journey of a girl becoming a woman, Grenade Bouquets charts the rollercoaster ride of a band primed to explode on the scene, as long as they keep from actually exploding.

â€œAn engaging â€™90s pastiche with an earnest heart beating at its center.â€â€“ Kirkus Reviews on Runaway Train.

Goodreads / Amazon

Review

Nico's life just became a whole lot better when her parents agreed to let her take the summer of 1995 and go on tour with her boyfriend's band, The Grenade Bouquets as a backup singer. Evan's ex-girlfriend, Clarissa is the lead singer of the band and is putting out major jealousy vibes; however, Nico's presence on stage is astounding and gets the band noticed by a record executive. Soon, Grenade Bouquets are in the recording studio and on the radio and Nico is a real life Rockstar. Life as a Rockstar isn't as easy as it sounds as Nico is dealing with issues on all sides. Grenade Bouquets is an ode to the 1990's and perfectly captures the feel of the 90's and the emerging Grunge and Alternative Rock scenes. Grenade Bouquets is the second book in the Runaway Train series, and I would recommend reading book one before to understand Nico and her past. Once again, I absolutely loved that the chapters titles were song tracks from the year that the book was set in. This led me on a deep nostalgia trip as well as perfectly setting the tone for the chapter. I felt like I was rejoining Nico's life as I read Grenade Bouquets, her life exploding suddenly in a roller coaster of new highs, lows, challenges, and feats while trying to navigate life as a teenager while in a famous band. Nico's emotions are real and raw as she deals with normal teenage issues along with the pressures of navigating stardom and a music career. I loved that she still wanted to connect with her friends at home and cared for her friend, Winter as she went through her own trauma. I was surprised by Nico's actions with Clarissa and how little consequence there was to her actions. The ending was emotional and well thought out. I can't wait to see what is in store for Nico next. This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

Author Bio:

Lee Matthew Goldberg is the author of the novels THE ANCESTOR, THE MENTOR, THE DESIRE CARD and SLOW DOWN. He has been published in multiple languages and nominated for the Prix du Polar. His first YA series RUNAWAY TRAIN is forthcoming in 2021 along with a sci-fi novel ORANGE CITY. After graduating with an MFA from the New School, his writing has also appeared in The Millions, Vol. 1 Brooklyn, LitReactor, Monkeybicycle, Fiction Writers Review, Cagibi, Necessary Fiction, the anthology Dirty Boulevard, The Montreal Review, The Adirondack Review, The New Plains Review, Underwood Press and others. He is the editor-in-chief and co-founder of Fringe, dedicated to publishing fiction thatâ€™s outside-of-the-box. His pilots and screenplays have been finalists in Script Pipeline, Book Pipeline, Stage 32, We Screenplay, the New York Screenplay, Screencraft, and the Hollywood Screenplay contests. He is the co-curator of The Guerrilla Lit Reading Series and lives in New York City. Follow him at LeeMatthewGoldberg.com

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The Second Life of Mirielle West

8/3/2021

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About the Book:

THE SECOND LIFE OF MIRIELLE WEST
BY AMANDA SKENANDORE
Publication Date: July 27, 2021
Kensington Publishing
eBook & Paperback; 304 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction

In this thought-provoking and sensitive novel, inspired by the true story of a Louisiana leprosy hospital where patients were forcibly quarantined, acclaimed author Amanda Skenandore tells an extraordinarily timely tale of resilience, hope–and the last woman who expected to find herself in such a place…

1920s Los Angeles: Socialite Mirielle West’s days are crowded with shopping, luncheons, and prepping for the myriad glittering parties she attends with her actor husband, Charlie. She’s been too busy to even notice the small patch of pale skin on the back of her hand. Other than an occasional over-indulgence in gin and champagne, which helps to numb the pain of recent tragedy, Mirielle is the picture of health. But her doctor insists on more tests, and Mirielle reluctantly agrees.

The diagnosis–leprosy–is devastating and unthinkable. Changing her name to shield Charlie and their two young children, Mirielle is exiled to rural Louisiana for what she hopes will be a swift cure. But the hospital at Carville turns out to be as much a prison as a place of healing. Deaths far outnumber the discharges, and many patients have languished for years. Some are badly afflicted, others relatively unscathed. For all, the disease’s stigma is just as insidious as its physical progress.

At first, Mirielle keeps her distance from other residents, unwilling to accept her new reality. Gradually she begins to find both a community and a purpose at Carville, helping the nurses and doctors while eagerly anticipating her return home. But even that wish is tinged with uncertainty. How can she bridge the divide between the woman, wife, and mother she was, and the stranger she has become? And what price is she willing to pay to protect the ones she loves?

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Review:
Mirielle is the carefree wife of Hollywood silent movie star Charlie West who has recently found a strange lesion that won't heal. Charlie is particularly worried about Mirielle hurting herself since the tragic death of their son. Mirielle is diagnosed with Leprosy and unceremoniously shipped off to the Carville Leprosy Colony in Louisiana. Mirielle quickly learns that her money and charm mean nothing, she is a prisoner of her disease until she receives twelve negative tests for the bacteria. Mirielle fights to get back home to her children and husband; however, as Mirielle begins to become involved in the Colony, things become more complicated between her two lives.

The Second Life of Mirielle West is a moving historical fiction novel about the Leprosy Epidemic in America. Now called Hansen's Disease, I did not know much about Leprosy, the epidemic in the USA or how people with Leprosy were treated. I was very interested in the Carville facility. I could easily tell that the author researched this facility as I could imagine the buildings, the staff, the residents and their activities. Mirielle's character was intriguing. As the glamorous wife of a Hollywood star, Mirielle's life is all about keeping up appearances. When Mirielle is diagnosed, everything about her diagnosis is hidden. She is whisked away in the middle of the night and her husband tells the press that she is in a psychiatric facility rather than admit the truth. As Mirielle finally gets to know the people around her at Carville, she learns that the disease treats everyone the same. I was amazed at the stigma that a Leprosy diagnosis carried. Those who were diagnosed were abandoned by their family, lost their jobs and the disease could be used as a grounds for divorce. Mirielle's journey of acceptance while in Carville was heartfelt as she juggled her needs to return to her family and the life she knew and the new life and family she created in Carville. Written with emotion and thoughtfulness, The Second Life of Mirielle West is a transformational read.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

Amanda is the author of Between Earth and Sky, winner of the American Library Association’s 2019 Reading List Award for Best Historical Fiction, and The Undertaker’s Assistant, released from Kensington in July 2019.

She grew up in the mountains of Colorado and sang and danced her way through 68 cities on both sides of the Atlantic with the service organization Up with People before starting college. Her love of historical fiction started early with the stories of Kenneth Thomasma, Mark Twain, and Laura Ingalls Wilder.

When she’s not writing, Amanda works as an infection prevention nurse. She lives in Las Vegas with her husband and their pet turtle Lenore.

Amanda Skenandore is a historical fiction writer and registered nurse. Between Earth and Sky was her first novel. She lives in Las Vegas, Nevada. Readers can visit her website at www.amandaskenandore.com. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, BookBub, and Goodreads.

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Rachel Ignotofsky

8/2/2021

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I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the WHATâ€™S INSIDE A FLOWER?, WOMEN IN SCIENCE, and WOMEN IN SPORTS by Rachel Ignotofsky Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

About The Books:

Title: WHAT'S INSIDE A FLOWER

Author: Rachel Ignotofsky

Pub. Date: February 2, 2021

Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers

Formats: Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 48

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

From the creator of the New York Times bestseller Women in Science, comes a new nonfiction picture book series ready to grow young scientists by nurturing their curiosity about the natural world--starting with what's inside a flower.

Budding backyard scientists can start exploring their world with this stunning introduction to these flowery show-stoppers--from seeds to roots to blooms. Learning how flowers grow gives kids beautiful building blocks of science and inquiry.

In the launch of a new nonfiction picture book series, Rachel Ignotofsky's distinctive art style and engaging, informative text clearly answers any questions a child (or adult) could have about flowers.

Reviews:

"The lush, geometric illustrations are the superstars of this adventure, drawing in readers from the front endpapers to the rear . . . A beautiful bloom for the nature shelf." - Kirkus Reviews

"Thereâ€™s an abundance of detail in this attractive first work in the â€œWhatâ€™s Insideâ€ series, but itâ€™s never overwhelming . . . The pages overflow with life." - Booklist

My Review

What's Inside a Flower? is a beautifully illustrated question and answer book for young children. Each realistically drawn image is labelled for children that constantly ask "what's that?" The questions keep it simple while still answering questions using scientific facts. The illustrations help to explain the science in a fun and easy to understand manner. Answering questions about how flowers grow, why, what they need, how seeds are made, pollination and more, What's Inside a Flower? is sure to please the young budding naturalist in your life.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

Title: WOMEN IN SCIENCE

Author: Rachel Ignotofsky

Pub. Date: July 26, 2016

Publisher: Ten Speed Press

Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 126

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N Exclusive Edition, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

Women in Science highlights the contributions of fifty notable women to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world. Full of striking, singular art, this collection also contains infographics about relevant topics such as lab equipment, rates of women currently working in STEM fields, and an illustrated scientific glossary. The women profiled include well-known figures like primatologist Jane Goodall, as well as lesser-known pioneers such as Katherine Johnson, the African-American physicist and mathematician who calculated the trajectory of the 1969 Apollo 11 mission to the moon.

Reviews:

"With the help of eye-catching artwork, Ignotofsky celebrates not just astronauts, but also the engineers, biologists, mathematicians, and physicists whoâ€™ve blazed a trail for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields from the ancient to modern world. The book elevates this information with beautiful and instructive infographics that delve into topics like the number of women currently working in STEM fields."â€“ Entertainment Weekly (online)

"With short, inspiring stories and the accessibility of a graphic novel. . .the perfect book to share with the science- and tech-minded people (male and female, young and old) in your life. . . .The must-read, girl-power STEM book."â€“ InStyle.com

"This book of illustrated biographies of scientific pioneers is hands-down gorgeous. . . .Kids will love paging through this, looking at all the detailed drawings, but they'll likely have to rip it out of the hands of the adults who are marveling at each new page of factoids."â€“ Sarah Mirk, Bitch Media

"The book is a beautifully curated collection of personal narratives from female scientists from a wide variety of backgrounds and disciplines, with a dash of whimsy thrown in." â€“ Upworthy

"I applaud Ignotofsky and her publisher for telling these important stories about women through such a rich, visual medium. The world needs more books like this."â€“ ScientificAmerican.com's Symbiartic

". . .an illustrated homage to some of the most influential and inspiring women in STEM. . . .Ignotofsky captures the heartbreaking inequalities that only amplify the impressiveness of these womenâ€™s feats."â€“ Maria Popova, BrainPickings.org

". . .a clever introduction to women scientists through history."â€“ Science Friday

My Review

Women in Science is a wonderful board book that features women through history and throughout the world who have contributed to science. Going chronologically through time, beginning with Hypatia, each page features a stylistically drawn scientist surrounded by tools of their trade and notes about their accomplishments and work in their field from simple to more complex. Women in Science includes women from different backgrounds, ethnicities and religions for a diverse grouping. Women in Science also showcases a variety of sciences from Math, Astronomy, Geology, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Psychiatry, Biology and Ophthalmology. Children and adults will find something to love in this book.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

Title: WOMEN IN SPORTS

Author: Rachel Ignotofsky

Pub. Date: July 18, 2017

Publisher: Ten Speed Press

Formats: Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook

Pages: 128

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

Women in Sports highlights notable women's contributions to competitive athletics to inspire readers young and old. Keeping girls interested in sports has never been more important: research suggests that girls who play sports get better grades and have higher self-esteem--but girls are six times more likely to quit playing sports than boys and are unlikely to see female athlete role models in the media. A fascinating collection full of striking, singular art, Women in Sports features 50 profiles and illustrated portraits of women athletes from the 1800s to today including trailblazers, Olympians, and record-breakers in more than 40 different sports. The book also contains infographics about relevant topics such as muscle anatomy, a timeline of women's participation in sports, statistics about women in athletics, and influential female teams.

Reviews:

"Exhaustive and enlighteningâ€”don't miss it."â€“ Kirkus Reviews

"This is one of the books we've been waiting forâ€”a compendium of great women athletes and the struggles they faced. As Billie Jean King taught us, â€˜Pressure is a privilege.â€™"â€“ Lesley Visser, Hall of Fame sportscaster

"This luminescent book tells the stories of women and girls who have not only excelled in athletics, but also often changed the world by doing so. I was agog at these lively biographies, and dazzled by the accompanying illustrations that seem to cartwheel, swim, pole vault, and double flip off the page. This is a book for girls who want inspiration on the field, in the pool, or down the track. Itâ€™s also for girls who arenâ€™t sporty at all, but love stories of courage, perseverance, sass, doggedness, and fun. And donâ€™t forget the boys, who will be riveted by these rollicking tales and who need to see that girl power has been alive and well for many years, and is alive and well today."â€“ Caroline Paul, author of The Gutsy Girl

"Rachel Ignotofsky's delightful book renders the healthy pleasure of sports for girls and women in buoyant color and formâ€”from Bloomer Girls to Skate Bettys, in calf length skirts or disguised as menâ€”reminding us that no matter if you are nine or ninety-eight, the question to ask is, â€˜What is my next victory?â€™"â€“ Mina Samuels, author of Run Like a Girl

"What an inspiring book! These beautifully drawn portraits cover the triumphs and troubles of fifty athletesâ€”some you've heard of and many you haven't. There's a familiar pattern to these stories: A woman sets her mind on something, someone tells her it can't be done, and she goes ahead and does it anyway, setting records along the way. You'll cheer for these ladies, and for author Rachel Ignotofsky."â€“ Lisa Taggart, author of Women Who Win

MY REVIEW

Women in Sports is an illustrated board book that features stylized illustrations of women in sports from the early 20th century through present day. Each page showcases women of different ethnicities, ability and sexuality for a well-rounded grouping. With each illustration is a simple explanation of their accomplishments and what they are known for including breaking records and breaking gender barriers. A wide variety of sports are also featured including swimming, archery, roller derby, mushing, figure skating and ping pong. Women in Sports is an inspiring illustrated guide for women everywhere.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About Rachel Ignotofsky:

Rachel Ignotofsky is a New York Times Best Selling author and illustrator, based in beautiful Santa Barbara. She grew up in New Jersey on a healthy diet of cartoons and pudding and graduated from Tyler School of Art in 2011.

Now Rachel works for herself and spends all day and night drawing, writing and learning as much as she can. Rachel is a published author with 10 Speed Press and Random House Kids. She is always thinking up new ideas.

Check out her books:

Whatâ€™s Inside A Flower?
The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth
Women In Science
Women in Art
Women In Sports

Her work is inspired by history and science. She believes that illustration is a powerful tool that can make learning exciting. She has a passion for taking dense information and making it fun and accessible. Rachel hopes to use her work to spread her message about scientific literacy and feminism.

If you like what you see and would like to have it for yourself, please visit her shop.

Giveaway Details:

3 winners will win a finished copy of WHATâ€™S INSIDE A FLOWER?, WOMEN IN SCIENCE, and WOMEN IN SPORTS, US Only.

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Tour Schedule:

Week One:

7/26/2021	BookHounds YA	Excerpt
7/26/2021	Two Chicks on Books	Excerpt
7/27/2021	#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog	Excerpt
7/27/2021	Kait Plus Books	Excerpt
7/28/2021	pagesofyellow	Review or Spotlight
7/28/2021	The Phantom Paragrapher	Review or Spotlight
7/29/2021	Feed Your Fiction Addiction	Review
7/29/2021	@ChristenKrumm	Review or Spotlight
7/30/2021	Do You Dog-ear?	Review
7/30/2021	Lifestyle of Me	Review

Week Two:

8/2/2021	100 Pages A Day	Review
8/2/2021	Locks, Hooks and Books	Review
8/3/2021	Jazzy Book Reviews	Review
8/3/2021	The Momma Spot	Review
8/4/2021	Nerdophiles	Review
8/4/2021	Two Points of Interest	Review
8/5/2021	Everyone's Librarian	Review
8/5/2021	Midnightbooklover	IG Post
8/6/2021	onemused	Review or Excerpt
8/6/2021	booksaremagictoo	Review

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Burning Ground

7/23/2021

1 Comment

About the Book:
BURNING GROUND
BY D.A. GALLOWAY
Publication Date: July 6, 2021
Series: Frontier Time Traveler, Book 1
Genre: Historical Fiction

Does time heal all wounds? Or do some last forever?

Pennsylvania, 1971: Graham Davidson is a young man with survivor’s guilt after the death of three siblings.
Estranged from his father and seeking a direction in his life, Graham learns about vision quests from a Crow Indian. He secures seasonal employment in Yellowstone National Park and embarks on a spiritual journey.

Wyoming Territory, 1871: Under a full moon at a sacred thermal area, Graham finds himself in Yellowstone a century earlier – one year before it was established as a national park. He joins the Hayden Expedition which was commissioned to explore the region.

Although a military escort provides protection for the explorers, the cavalry’s notorious lieutenant threatens Graham. His perilous journey through the future park is marred by a horrific tragedy in a geyser basin, a grizzly bear attack, and an encounter with hostile Blackfeet Indians.
Graham falls in love with Makawee, a beautiful Crow woman who serves as a guide. As the expedition nears its conclusion, Graham is faced with an agonizing decision.

Does he stay in the previous century with the woman he loves or travel back to the future?
If you like the historical time travel adventure of Outlander or enjoyed the movie Dances with Wolves, then you’ll love Burning Ground!

Praise

“When I finish a genuinely great read, it leaves me with a sense of melancholy because the adventure the author took me on through his work is now over, and I’m left wanting more. Burning Ground is exactly that sort of book. After Graham is set upon his course by his mentor Redfield, the rest of the novel is a page-turner; the action is nearly non-stop, and the situations which arise are entirely realistic and believable. Galloway’s descriptions of late 19th century frontier life are vivid and detailed. It is clear that authenticity was an important goal, and Galloway hit the mark in descriptions of equipment, clothing, firearms, and other hardware. I felt as if I were there with the protagonist Graham, and when I turned the last page I was indeed filled with melancholy, proof of an excellent novel.” – Brian R. Smith, Author of Samworth Books, A Descriptive Bibliography of the Small Arms Technical Publishing Co.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the story! I was amazed at the depth of Galloway’s research, which extended far beyond the Hayden survey. The details on so many things the protagonist Graham experienced in Yellowstone all ring true. I especially liked the presentation of Henry Elliott, William H. Jackson, and Thomas Moran. Each person was presented in an unvarnished manner that was quite believable. Overall, the characterization of Lieutenant Doane is painfully accurate. The author captured the spirit of a man who felt entitled and was egotistical.” ~ Kim Allen Scott, author of Yellowstone Denied: The Life of Gustavus Cheyney Doane

AMAZON | BARNES AND NOBLE

Review:
Graham Davidson is a college student in Pennsylvania, 1971. He is carrying a large amount of survivor's guilt after the death of his three siblings and yearns to make something of his life. When working on a farm Graham meets Redfield, a Crow Indian who tells Graham of a vision quest that he believes Graham is part of. When Graham receives a job offer to work in Yellowstone for the summer, Graham decides to follow Redfield's advice for undertaking a vision quest of his own and complete a spiritual journey. Graham's vision quest transports him to 1871, where he is found next to a geyser by a member of the Hayden Expedition. The Hayden Expedition was a federally funded geological expedition to explore and survey what would become Yellowstone Park. Graham joins the expedition as a civilian and is able to help with his modern knowledge of Yellowstone's geography. Graham also becomes close to the expedition's two Crow guides, Makawee and Rides Alone. He knows that he can confide in them about his vision quest as well as have them help him find his way home. As Graham spends a month with Makawee, they fall in love; however, Graham's time in 1871 is coming to an end and he must make a decision to complete his vision quest on the next full moon.

Burning Ground is an exciting time travel adventure romance. Graham's story grabbed me from the very beginning with the death of his little brother. His character is well written and easy to relate to as Graham goes through a rollercoaster of emotions. I enjoyed watching Graham grow and evolve in his vision quest and was astounded at the descriptions while exploring Yellowstone. I knew nothing of the Hayden Expedition and was excited to learn about how the National Park was formed. The author has included many of the real people who were on the expedition as characters and I liked being able to see the group dynamics between the many different characters including geologists, guides, artists and mule handlers. The descriptions of Yellowstone before it was a park were amazing; I could easily visualize the geysers, waterfalls, and the obsidian outcropping. It was also interesting to see the interactions with the Native Americans in 1871, Makawee and Rides Alone were amazing characters who were able to find a place within changing society while still keeping their traditions. Graham and Makawee's relationship progressed very naturally and I was surprised at where it took them. I can't wait to read more of their journey in the rest of the Frontier Time Traveler Series.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

About the Author

David Galloway grew up in rural Pennsylvania near Gettysburg. After a long career in the paper industry and writing a bestselling non-fiction book, Safety WALK Safety TALK, he decided to follow a once dormant dream of writing a novel. Burning Ground was inspired by two memorable summers of his youth.

As a teen, David worked on a fruit farm in Pennsylvania. It is here he met Redfield, a Crow Indian who lived a simple life but had a profound effect on the way David saw the world.

As a young man, he spent a summer in Yellowstone National Park, providing guided boat tours on Yellowstone Lake. When he was not on duty, David explored all corners of that magnificent land, often in the backcountry. His love for our nation’s first national park is rooted in these experiences.

David is currently working on the sequel to Burning Ground, tentatively titled Fatal Ground.

He enjoys reading about adventurers and explorers, traveling internationally, riding a recumbent tandem bike, and spending time with his grandsons.

David lives in Springboro, Ohio with his wife Leesa.

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Hi there! I'm Stephanie and I obviously love reading. As, the title suggests, I read at least one hundred pages a day. I enjoy most book genres; however, my favorites are historical fiction, fantasy, science fiction, thriller, horror and YA. I also read a lot of non-fiction science and gardening books for my occupation. I enjoy reviewing books and as always, any book that I receive for free is read in return for my honest review.

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