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Sharayah Maurice has been a lover of books since she first learned to read and has dreamed of being an author for just as long. She is the author of The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle series. Her stories are filled with adventure, political intrigue and swoony romance that will leave you desperate for more. She lives in north Texas with her husband and five children.

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What a debut!  Author Sharayah Maurice will blow readers away with her well-written and enthralling story filled with lots of adventure, danger, and mystery; and of course romance and some epic fantasy with an intriguing magic system.  Maurice has really awesome elemental magic coming from the Gods with water, earth, and wind entwined into her story that readers will love.  Filled with lots of secrets and adventure, readers will enjoy the intensity of the story with all the various twists and turns keeping them on the edge of their seats.  This exciting and fast paced novel is one that readers will not want to put down and will greatly anticipate the next book in the series.

Series: The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle
Genre: young adult, historical, fantasy, folklore
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: September 1, 2023
Number of pages: 372
Content warning: 

Other books in the series:

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

Follow along with the tour HERE.

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​Iris’s eyes snapped open, her heart pounding. Her bedroom was black as pitch, the house still.
Except for a low thud and an even lower curse, just inside the bedroom.
A man was in her room.
Her breath caught, icy fear shooting through her veins. She could just make him out. Broad shoulders, hunched as he clutched his foot. He’d . . . stubbed his toe?
That hardly mattered. A man was in her room.
Iris shot up in bed and shoved the blankets aside, grabbing for the cold lamp because she had no other weapon. Fates, why didn’t she have a knife?
She could still feel the imprint of the knife from her nightmare. Her stomach twisted, but she ignored that as she raised the lamp, ready to hurl it at the intruder.
At her first movement, the shadowy figure had frozen. Now he straightened sharply, and the moonlight just caught his hand as one arm flashed out. “What—?”
She threw the lamp.
The man cursed and dropped to the floor. The lamp shattered against the wall behind him.
“Easy!” he said from the floor, unmistakable pain in his voice. “I’m not going to—”
Iris launched from the bed and snatched up a book from the bookshelf. It was the first one she touched—the useless poetry volume.
She threw it at his head.
It bounced off his shoulder and he swore. “Would you stop trying to kill me? This is my room!”
Iris froze, clutching a thicker book this time. Breathing hard, she looked down at the shadowed body still hunched on the floor. “Kell?”
“Yes,” he nearly gasped. “Fates blast it—I was beginning to think I’d walked into the wrong house.”
She stared, her heart hammering in her chest. “You’re not supposed to be here.”
He snorted a short laugh. “I could say the same about you, whoever you . . .” He cursed suddenly, and his voice was filled with sudden surety. “You’re Iris.”
Her fingertips dug into the leather cover of the book she still held. “Yes.”
He groaned. “Fates, I’m sorry. My father sent a letter, so I knew you’d be coming to stay with us, but . . .” His words trailed off when hurried footsteps sounded in the corridor.
The door opened, and a young maid poked her head in. She carried a lamp, and it perfectly illuminated her wide eyes as she took in the scene—Iris standing on the far side of the bed, ready to throw another book, and Kell on his knees on the other side of the bed.
Iris could make out his features a little better now. He had shaggy, dark brown hair that brushed his high cheekbones, and his face appeared a little gaunt. He was pale, and pain pinched his lips into a hard line. One hand was braced against the floor in front of him, and his other arm was pressed against his middle, held in place by a sling that wrapped over his opposite shoulder.
The maid let out a small squeak. “Master Kell, we didn’t know you were coming home!”
“Clearly.” Kell pushed to his feet, and Iris noted how he swayed a little. He studied Iris, his expression curious rather than hostile. Though she’d been studied a lot since arriving in Lenzen, Kell’s stare felt different. Almost like he was seeing her, and not just her faults, or how much she looked like her parents.
When the maid cleared her throat, Kell turned toward her. “It’s fine, Sira. Perhaps you could prepare one of the guest rooms?”
“I—The renovations aren’t—I don’t know—”
“Any room is fine,” he broke into the young woman’s stammering. “A pallet in the kitchen, even.”
Iris’s spine stiffened. “I will not sleep in the kitchen.”
Kell’s mouth twitched. “The thought never crossed my mind, dear cousin. I meant the pallet for myself.” He turned to the maid. “Will you see something done?”
The woman looked horribly flustered, and her eyes kept darting to the broken lamp and the spilled oil that coated the floor.
Kell’s tone gentled. “Sira, the mess can wait until morning. Would you just see that there are blankets in the library? I’ll sleep there tonight.”
The servant girl flushed, but nodded.
He smiled, and that made the maid’s blush darken. “Thank you,” Kell said. “And please don’t bother to wake my parents. I’ll greet them in the morning.”
“Yes, Master Kell.” She bobbed a curtsy and left her lamp on a small table before she rushed away.
In the silence, Kell twisted toward Iris. “So, you’re my cousin. You’re . . .” His eyebrows rose. “Not what I expected.” He scanned her from mussed braid to the bare toes that peeked out from under her white nightgown, then finally settled on the book in her hand.
She lowered it, but didn’t put it back on the shelf.

An intriguing and captivating prequel story for the Fate of Eyrinthia series.  This is the fascinating and tragic story of King (then Prince) Henry and his wife Iris.  It tells of the progression of their relationship.  Readers will be spellbound with this amazing story as they better come to understand Prince Henry and Iris’ back story and get little glimpses of how horrible and wicked they will become in the other books in the series.   Whether you have read the other books in the series or are just beginning this story will cause readers to continue in the series or start a re-read.  Another wonderfully written and enthralling story that readers will not want to put down. 

Series: Fate of Eyrinthia
Genre: young adult, fantasy, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: August 25, 2023 
Number of pages: 244

Other books in the series:
0.5-Fire & Ash
1-Royal Decoy
2-Royal Spy
3-Royal Captive
3.5-Shield & Blade
4-Royal Rebel

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

To celebrate Crown & Serpent coming out, Heather is giving away a signed paperback of Royal Decoy + collectible bookmarks and postcard!
 
Get all the details and enter here: https://www.instagram.com/heather.frost.author/

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Teresa Richards writes speculative and contemporary YA fiction, but loves anything that can be given a unique twist. She grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, got a degree in Speech Pathology from Brigham Young University, then moved to the east coast and lived outside New York City for fourteen years. Life has thrown her some surprising twists, and now she's settled in Kentucky with her husband and five kids. She divides her time between her own kids, the kids she puts braces on, and her fictional kids.  

Teresa's debut novel, Emerald Bound, was an editor’s pick and book of the month at Long and Short Reviews (LASR). The sequel, Topaz Reign, received a starred Best Book distinction from LASR, in addition to being book of the month. Teresa’s first YA contemporary, The Windfall App, received a five-star Top Pick distinction from Night Owl Reviews. Teresa is a member of SCBWI and The Storymakers Guild, and serves as a Query Kombat judge. She’s been a panelist at both SOKY and NKYA bookfests, and has taught writing workshops to elementary through high school kids. She started a Read Local program for her region, and loves connecting with young writers.

Teresa is represented by Kelly Van Sant of KT Literary.  You can connect with her on twitter @BYUtm33,  Facebook  @AuthorTeresaRichards, and Instagram @authorteresarichards. 

​Mason’s life is far from perfect, but it turns out it can get worse. When his mom ends up in prison, he’s shipped off to the middle of nowhere. Apparently he’s got grandparents—parents of the father he knows nothing about. Mason’s not interested in bonding with these newfound grandparents. He just wants to survive until his eighteenth birthday so he can escape this backwater town and finally be free.
 
Emily is struggling to keep what’s left of her family from falling apart after a horrible accident stole her mom. She has enough on her plate with mothering her younger siblings and protecting a secret that could destroy everything, when she runs into Mason—literally. Her life doesn’t need more complications, and this distractingly attractive, clearly damaged boy promises nothing but trouble. Still, she can’t help but be drawn to him.
 
Mason and Emily are opposites in nearly every way, but neither can deny the attraction between them. Mason knows he isn’t good enough for her, and Emily knows she should stay away, but that doesn’t stop the pull they feel toward each other. Their tentative relationship is threatened when Mason is put in the crosshairs of the local gang and the town sheriff. Mason and Emily will have to decide what they really want—and if they’re willing to fight for it.

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​“Mason?” A man lurched around the hood of the ancient pickup, something like panic
tightening his features. I took in his thin gray hair and weathered face, the mud caked on his old
boots and jeans. I’d never seen him before, but I recognized his deep blue eyes—they were the
same ones I saw in the mirror every day.
George Peterson—my grandpa.
My gut clenched, the ringing in my ears nearly drowning out my music.
“Are you Mason?” Those wide eyes scanned my face, though without the usual
disapproval.
I managed to jerk out a nod, but that was it.
Relief flooded his face. “Oh, thank goodness. Sorry I’m late. I had a flat on the way over
and had to change it. I wanted to be here when you got off the bus.” He seemed to be waiting for
me to say something, but my mind was blank. I was distantly aware of Emily watching us, and to
break the tension, I glanced at her. Confusion creased her forehead, her eyes darting between us
like she was trying to figure out what was going on. George followed my gaze and straightened,
as if he hadn’t realized she was there. “Emily! What brings you out here?”
She offered a smile that looked only a little forced—which was impressive, considering
how irritated she’d been with me a minute ago. “Just grabbing an early lunch. My car’s been
acting up, so I thought I’d get it checked.” She took a half-step back. “I should get to the garage
before the lunchtime rush.”
“Of course.” George smiled. “I hope all goes well. Tell your daddy hi for me.”

“I will, Mr. Peterson.” Those hazel eyes darted to me, and I wondered if she was going to
apologize or threaten me again. I wasn’t sure which I wanted her to choose. But she just climbed
into her car without another word.
Then it was just me and George Peterson—aka Grandpa . . . That was going to take some
time to get used to.
Silence crept in around us after Emily left. I couldn’t think of anything to say to this man
I knew nothing about. From the slightly panicked look on his face, he was having the same
problem.
Finally, he cleared his throat. “So, Mason . . . You’re tall.” A grimace pinched his
features. “What I mean is, it’s good to meet you, son.” He held out a grease-stained hand.
I didn’t even think about shaking it. “I’m not your son.”
“Of course not. I didn’t mean—” He cut himself off with a pained expression and glanced
down. Then, with a little nod to himself, he reached for my duffle bag. “Here, let me take that.”
I twisted out of his reach. “I’ve got it,” I ground out, squeezing the handles until it felt
like the stiff material might break the skin.
He stood frozen for a second, uncertainty mixing with panic in his expression. Then he
let out a breath and scrubbed a hand through his hair, his bony elbow peeking through a hole in
his sleeve. “We should head home. Kathy—er, your grandma—will have lunch ready before we
even get there, at this rate.”
My stomach growled. Despite my surprise that some lady was apparently making me
lunch, I wasn’t going to jeopardize food by standing around. Shoving down the myriad of
emotions tangled in my chest, I tossed my duffel bag into the truck’s uncovered bed.

The vehicle might have been blue in another life. But after a long—and clearly
difficult—life, the paint had chipped and faded and was now mostly the color of old rust. I
wasn’t sure I trusted the thing with my life. But I also didn’t want to walk to my grandparents’
house. I had no idea how far from the McDonald’s “bus station” they lived, and my leg was
really starting to hurt. Oh, the joys of being hit by a car.
The passenger door squealed loudly when I pulled it open. I was surprised it didn’t fall
right off its hinges. Gingerly, I slid onto the frayed bench and closed my door.
Or, I tried to.
“You’ve got to slam it,” George said, thin amusement lacing his voice.
I pulled the door again, but it just fell open like before.
“Here.” He got out and hurried around to my door.
“I got it.” I tried a third time, without any luck.
He smiled and slammed the door firmly. It stayed closed—naturally. He got behind the
wheel again with a chuckle. “Old girl’s a little temperamental, but she’s got personality.” He
patted the warped dashboard lovingly, and I shook my head. Old people were so weird.
The engine groaned to life, and he pulled onto the quiet street. One grease-stained thumb
stroked the cracked leather of the steering wheel. “You sure do pack light, Mason.”
I stared out the window, music thrumming in my ears. It couldn’t quite block out my
reality as I watched the podunk town slip by. “I don’t plan on staying long.”

K.M. Frost was brought up surrounded by books, and has loved stories of all kinds her whole life. Romance, comedy, and fantasy are some of her favorite genres to write, read, and watch. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, and graphic design.
​
K.M. Frost lives in Northern Utah, and is the author of the YA sweet contemporary romance, No Matter What, and the YA dystopian trilogy, Reality Dreamers.

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Author K.M. Frost has written a beautiful and heart-wrenching story that shows that no matter who you are and where you are from life can be hard, but within that hardship, joy can also be found.  From the beginning of the story and the embarrassing scene of the meet-cute, readers will be rooting for Mason and Emily and their love story.  Readers will love the realistic events in the story from dealing with a parent in the hospital and the drama that comes with that and coming from a large city and a not so good background to being thrust into a small town with grandparents you didn’t know you had, Frost brings to life how hard life can be, but how people can change and how truely resilient we really all can be.  And how love can conquer it all.  This book has all the feels; it will make you laugh and cry and everything in-between.  Readers, especially teens will definitely want to pick up this exquisit and inspiring story.

Genre: young adult, contemporary, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: May 12, 2023 
Number of pages: 444:

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

Genre: YA Fantasy Romance
Series: Fate of Eyrinthia Book 4
Release Date: April 21, 2023
 
A PRINCE fighting to save a princess
A SERJAH torn between duty and desire
A PRINCESS willing to sacrifice everything
A DECOY with nothing to lose
A WORLD about to be torn apart
 
After his father’s latest punishment, Grayson isn’t at his full strength. Trapped in Ryden and surrounded by enemies, he knows escaping with Mia will be more complicated than anticipated. Tyrell is determined to claim Mia for himself, and Henri’s plans for the rest of Eyrinthia are more horrific than Grayson ever imagined. Despite the increased danger, he and Mia must return to Mortise and warn Desfan of what’s coming—even though it may already be too late.
 
In Mortise, the palace is still reeling from the brutal attack that left many dead and even more wounded. Regardless of the chaos, Desfan is determined to continue with his coronation. As serjan, he hopes to bring stability to his country and solidify the peace with Devendra. But things in Eyrinthia are always complicated. When Prince Liam reveals they may be facing dangers from old enemies, Desfan will have to decide what kind of ruler he will be.
 
Devastating news from home has left Clare broken. Despite her heartache, she must once again be Serene’s decoy when a terrifying report sends the princess on an unexpected mission to Zennor. Left at the palace, Clare helps Desfan build trust with the elite in Mortise while guarding a treasonous secret. Because as her grief transforms into a burning desire for vengeance, she is finally ready to embrace a new role—rebel.
 
Eyrinthia is consumed by uncertainty. Duty. Desire. Sacrifice. Every rebellion has its cost.

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​ 
“Don’t you have somewhere to be?” Imara asked blithely. “A coronation, perhaps?”
“They can’t very well start without me. Besides, it’s not until this afternoon.” Desfan crossed the room and sat in the empty chair beside her bed. Bright sunlight poured through the open windows, and the crash of distant waves was punctuated by the cries of seabirds.
“Where is Karim?” she asked.
“In the other room.”
“How is he?”
“He’s fine.”
Imara lifted one eyebrow. “Are those his words?”
A smile tugged at Desfan’s lips. “How did you know?”
“It sounds like something Karim would say.”
“True. But I promise, he’s all right.”
The bedroom door clicked faintly as Hanna left them alone.
Desfan’s heart suddenly beat a little faster, but he tried to hide that as he asked, “How are you feeling?”
“A little peckish. Hopefully Hanna’s gone for breakfast.”
His mouth quirked. “I meant your leg.”
“Oh, that.” She waved her hand. “It’s well on the mend. Barely hurts at all.”
“I doubt that.” His brow furrowed. “I’m sorry, Imara. I—”
“Please, spare us both. Unless you want to thank me again for saving your life, let’s not talk about last night.” She smoothed a hand over the quilt on her lap, suddenly intent on the colorful pattern.
It could have been his imagination, but her cheeks seemed to have a hint of color now. What part of last night was she thinking of? His pulse quickened as he thought of his favorite part.
He cleared his throat. “Has the physician been to see you since you woke?”
“Yes, he left just a few minutes ago. He’s been most attentive.” Her eyes narrowed on him. “Quite possibly too attentive. I’m sure there are others in more need of the royal physician’s expertise, but it seems he’s been under orders to check on me every half hour.”
He didn’t bother to feign an apology. “I needed to know you had the best care.”
Her eyes softened. “Thank you, Desfan. Truly. But my father won’t go to war over this.”
“That’s reassuring. But I had other motivations.”
Her breathing thinned.
His own lungs suddenly felt too tight as he waited for her to say something. Anything.
Her lips pursed. “You’re a good friend, Desfan.”
Fates. Her words seemed to draw a line in the sand, but the way she said his name . . .
He was far too tired to have this conversation. He didn’t even know how he wanted this conversation to go, so why did he feel a cut of disappointment that she’d merely called him a friend?
He was betrothed to Serene Demoi, not Imara Buhari. He had a duty to fulfill. An alliance to secure. He should not be looking at Imara’s lips, wishing he could kiss them again.
He needed to stop looking. Now.
He shifted in the chair. “Considering you saved my life, I owed you the best possible care.”
“I would tell you I won’t let you forget it,” Imara said, “but you keep bringing it up, so I can’t very well be the one to remind you.”
“I will never forget.” The taste of fear had been sharp on his tongue, had knotted his insides when he saw that knife plunge into her leg. The bleeding alone could have been fatal, but just knowing the agony she’d endured—was still suffering—pierced him deeply. She’d come back to help him. She had refused to leave him behind, and she’d paid dearly for that choice.
Imara reached out and touched the back of his hand. “You have enough to worry about, Desfan. Don’t torture yourself over this.”
Her skin was soft. Warm. Darker than his, and completely mesmerizing. He stared at their hands, watching as her fingers slipped away.
He nearly gave into the urge to snatch them back.

Heather Frost is a #1 Amazon bestselling author who writes magical stories with breath-stealing romance. She is the author of the Seers trilogy, the Fate of Eyrinthia series, and Esperance. Her books have been Whitney Award and Swoony Award Finalists. She has a BS in Creative Writing and a minor in Folklore, which means she got to read fairy tales and call it homework. When she’s not writing, Heather likes to read, travel, and re-watch Lord of the Rings. She lives in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains in northern Utah. To learn more about Heather and her books, visit her website: www.HeatherFrost.com.

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Author Heather Frost has written another fantastic addition to the Fate of Eyrinthia series in book 4.  This story picks up where book 3 leaves off.  This story focuses on the romance between Mia and Grayson, while still weaving craftily incorporating other character’s stories, romances, and pointes of view. Frost has an amazing way of capturing the attention of readers and drawing them by transporting them to another world from the turn of the first page.  Packed full of fast paced action with the ongoing war and of plenty of sacrifice and romance, readers will not want to put this book down.

Series: Fate of Eyrinthia
Genre: young adult, fantasy, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: April 21, 2023 
Number of pages: 646

Other books in the series:
0.5-Fire & Ash
1-Royal Decoy
2-Royal Spy
3-Royal Captive
3.5-Shield & Blade

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

Pre-order Royal Rebel and get your exclusive Fate of Eyrinthia short story: The Princess and the New Bodyguard!
 
About the Story:
Serene knows things have been strained between her parents since the civil war ended. She hopes a trip to Lambern Lake will bring her family back together. What she doesn’t expect is to grow closer to her new bodyguard, Cardon. Serene is about to learn that one day can irrevocably change the course of a life. 

How to Claim Your Gift:
Simply pre-order Royal Rebel in any format, take a screenshot of your receipt, and fill out the form HERE.

Purchase the book HERE.

Follow along with the blog tour HERE.

​Welcome to the Blog Tour for Beauty from Ashes by Pamela Hart,
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Author Pamela Hart has written a beautiful and unique biblical fiction story, set in the world of dystopian, scifi and fantasy.  This story is such an intriguing allegory, not completely the same, but similar enough, of Christ and his love for all of us.  This is a fast paced, fascinating story with excellent characters and world building, and a villain who could almost be the devil himself.  With a focus of lost and found again hope, and love, this is a story that will stand out to readers, causing them to remember it long after the turn of the last page.

Genre: young adult, fantasy, scifi, dystopian, romance
Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc
Publication date: July 25, 2022
Number of pages: 204

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

​(1) winner will receive:
a print copy of Beauty from Ashes,
2 themed bookmarks,
a $15 Amazon gift card,
a book themed tote bag,
and a book themed pencil case!

​Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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​Carver stood in profile, shirtless as he peered into the mirror and carefully dragged a long razor over his jaw. His bronzed skin, so much darker than her own, was on proud display. His arms were corded with muscles that jumped and rolled as he guided the razor across his skin, his gaze never wandering from the glass before him. Broad shoulders shifted as he leaned in, and she could see the curve of his spine, and the dip of his lower back.
Amryn also saw scars. Some were nothing more than narrow white marks, clearly long-healed. Others were newer. Pink, and puckered. Some even looked like stripes. Were those . . . whip marks?
She must have inhaled too sharply, because Carver’s eyes snapped to hers in the mirror. He lowered the razor and turned to face her. It took considerable effort not to stare at his bare chest and the lined ridges of his abdomen, but somehow she kept her eyes on his face.
Mostly.
White cream still streaked the lower half of his face, since he hadn’t finished his shave, and his blue eyes were intent on her. “Amryn.” His voice was rougher than usual—probably still heavy from sleep. He cleared his throat. “Did I wake you?”
“No.” Her own throat felt dry, and if her cheeks weren’t already sunburned, they’d surely be flaming with her embarrassment. She clutched at her robe and took a quick step back. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I didn’t hear you. I can come back later—”
“It’s fine,” he cut into her rambling. “You just startled me.” His fingers tightened on the razor’s handle. “Did you, uh, need the room?”
His flash of embarrassment as he glanced toward the chamber pot only made her own flare.
She shook her head. “No, I . . . I just wanted to retrieve something Ahmi brought for my sunburn.”
“Oh.” His wave of relief might have made her laugh, under other circumstances. He shifted back from the counter, and she noticed his feet were bare beneath the black cuffs of his pants.
Saints only knew why that detail made this whole moment feel more intimate.
He gestured to the counter with his razor. “I’m not sure which one it is . . .”
She followed his gaze to the array of bottles that sat on the countertop. As much as she wanted to simply run away from this whole situation, her skin was burning. So she forced herself to step into the washroom, even though it put her closer to him. If only she could be as nonchalant and confident as she’d felt yesterday on that training field with him.
She found the aloe with a little searching, and then she sidestepped toward the door. “Sorry again for the intrusion.”
“It’s fine, really.” He gestured to the looking glass. “Do you need the mirror?”
“There’s one in the bedroom.”
His eyebrows tugged together as his gaze narrowed on her neck. “That’s quite the burn. Do you need help applying the salve?”
“I . . .” It would be so easy to say no.
But this truly would go easier with help. And though she didn’t have her orders from the Rising yet, she knew the rebels wouldn’t want her to miss an opportunity to get closer to Carver.
She lifted the ointment. “If you’re sure?”
“Of course. Can I finish shaving, first? I’m nearly done.”
She nodded and stepped back into the doorway, allowing him the space to finish.
Other than their breaths, the low rasp of the blade against his skin was the only sound. He angled his chin in the mirror, moving the blade deftly but with precise strokes. Each movement was controlled and practiced, and watching him was strangely fascinating.
When he finished, he rinsed the razor in the shallow basin on the counter and dragged a towel over his face, wiping away any residual cream. Then he faced her and held out a hand.
She passed him the jar, and her pulse jumped when their fingers brushed.
As he twisted the jar open, she slipped into the space in front of him, so she could stand in the light coming in from the small window. She turned her back to him and gathered her loose braid over one shoulder.
Her voice seemed especially loud in the silence. “If you’d rather just do the back of my neck, I can do the rest.”
In the mirror, she caught the corner of his mouth lifting. “I really don’t mind. I have younger siblings, remember? I’ve been putting aloe on sunburns my whole life.”
The images that leapt to mind made something low in her belly curl. Carver, kneeling before a child and tending their sunburn. Dabbing blood from a scraped knee. Drying tears.
Her pulse skittered, and she lowered her head, partly to give him better access to her neck, but mostly to avoid seeing him in the glass.
He stepped closer, and she could feel the heat that radiated from his larger body. Even though he didn’t touch her, she was wholly aware of the fact that he stood directly behind her, bare to the waist.

Pre-order ESPERANCE on Kindle (or buy the paperback on or before November 18th)
then fill out the form below to receive a bookmark! Open internationally.
 
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Readers of new adult and fantasy romance will devour Esperance, Heather Frost’s latest release.  This book is deliciously delightful on so many levels.  It is filled with plenty of edge of your seat action, suspense, politics, magic, and a slow burn romance.  The characters are intriguing and the story is completely captivating.  Readers who enjoy stories like The Selection Series by Kiera Kass and The Desolation Series by Kortney Keisel will definitely want to pick up this fast paced and exciting book.  Once again, Frost has written a story that readers will absolutely not want to put down!

Series: Esperance Trilogy
Genre: New Adult, Fantasy, romance
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 18, 2022 
Number of pages:531

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

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During a time when legends were born . . .

ENFLAMED

The most beautiful noblewoman in the kingdom, the lowly knight who can never have her, and the forbidden love they share.

When Sylvi Prestegard discovers that her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy nobleman known for his thieving ways, she’s desperate to avoid the union. She turns to her childhood friend Espen, a Knight of Brethren, counting on his loyalty and kindness to help her escape.

Espen has been given an urgent mission to locate the holy lamp, an ancient relic necessary to defeat the enemy invading their country. In addition to his royal quest, he’s determined to protect Sylvi, the woman he’s always secretly loved. When she suggests the two of them marry to thwart her father’s plans, Espen cannot deny her request.

As they search for the holy lamp, Lord Prestegard pursues them, intent on reclaiming his daughter. With Espen’s life at stake, Sylvi must conspire to save them both. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them, or are the flames of their forbidden love destined to be extinguished?

The real story of the Holy Lamp . . .

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Another story packed full of action, intrigue, and romance, Enflamed by Jody Hedlund, is a beautiful story and a splendid addition to The Knights of Brethren series.  A story of a knight and the most beautiful woman in the kingdom and their forbidden love this adventured filled swoony romance will pull readers in through the turn of the last page.  A main theme in the story and something that both main characters  struggle with is self worth and confidence.  The story progresses in such a way that readers can see the development of these traits throughout the story.  Another fabulous story from Hedlund that readers will not want to miss.

Series: Knights of Brethren
Genre: Medieval, fantasy, historical, romance, fairytale
Publisher: Northern Lights Press
Publication date: August 16, 2022
Number of pages:247

Other books in the series:
1-Enamored
2-Entwined
3-Ensnared
4-Enriched
6-Entrusted

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENRICHED

A wealthy noblewoman with a heart of gold, a wounded knight closed off to love, and the sacrifices for a chalice that can bring healing.

Lady Karina lives in a convent and expects to become a nun someday. When her wealthy father asks her to help his textile business become more successful by marrying one of the popular Knights of Brethren, Karina complies, ever the dutiful daughter.

During a royal quest to find the sacred chalice, Torvald is called home to save his family’s estate through an arranged marriage to a wealthy maiden. Although willing to do his duty, he’s vowed never to give his heart to anyone after watching his father suffer heartbreak over a woman.

As Torvald weds the kind and lovely Karina, he resists the pull of attraction to his bride. Even though Karina feels the sting of Torvald’s rejection, she chooses to love him unconditionally. As he resumes his search for the chalice and puts his life in jeopardy, Karina makes the ultimate sacrifice for him. Will he have the chance to love her in return before it’s too late?

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Enriched  is a fabulous addition to author Jody Hedlund’s sweet fairytale style medieval romance Knights of Brethren series.  Readers will love the fiery redhead, Lady Karina, and the chalice searching knight, Torvald.  With an arranged marriage, the two join together, both trying to help and please their families.  A story of duty, danger, heartache, rejection, deception, and unconditional love, Hedlund has written a beautiful, adventure filled and captivating romantic story that readers will be charmed by.  The fourth book in the series, this splendid book continues the brilliant story of the holy grail.  Readers will not want to put this charming book down.

Series: Knights of Brethren
Genre: Medieval, fantasy, historical, romance
Publisher: Northern Lights Press
Publication date: July 12, 2022
Number of pages: 236

Other books in the series:
1-Enamored
2-Entwined
3-Ensnared
5-Enflamed (coming Aug 2022)
6-Entrusted (coming Sept 2022)

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​

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​Venn was taking a drink when Vera stilled.
     So attuned to her, he lowered the water skin at once. “What?”
     Her brow furrowed as she twisted to peer into the trees behind them. “I thought I heard . . .”
     Venn strained his ears, and after a few heartbeats he heard it, too. Soft and distant, a
muffled cry.
     They both came to their feet. Venn grabbed one of the daggers at his belt and handed it to
her. “Stay with the horse.”
     Vera took the blade with a frown. “But—”
     “It could just be an animal,” Venn said. “But it could also be some kind of a trap. Let me scout
the area first.”
     She didn’t look happy about remaining behind, but she nodded.
     Venn palmed another dagger and slid between trees, angling in the direction the sound had
originated. It wasn’t long before he heard it again—an almost cracking cry that ended
sharply—and he altered his course slightly. He stepped carefully, picking his way among the
underbrush and steering clear of anything that might give away his presence.
     The next time he heard the cry, there was no mistaking it—an infant’s shriek, new and weak.
Venn’s heart lurched and he stepped faster. He knew that sound, because he remembered his
little sister’s birth. She’d had that particular newborn cry for a period of weeks only. His three
nieces had been the same.
     Finally, he spotted a blanket. Gray and threadbare, it was bunched up on the ground
between two large rocks. A tiny fist had punched through the folds, but the baby’s face was
hidden. The cry was thin—more of a whimper, edged with a whine.
     Venn dropped his knife and pulled down the blanket, already making a cooing noise he only
ever had for his nieces. The infant’s eyes were closed, and her small face was scrunched up.
The babe’s frown was deep, making a jutting island of her chin. She had pinkish skin, but there
was no hiding that she was Devendran. Fates, she was so small. She could only be a week or
two old.
     She was wearing a small child’s shirt that drowned her, and it was filthy. She had no soiling
cloth, though a quick inspection showed no wounds or sign of abuse, other than some insect
bites on her arms and legs. She couldn’t have been abandoned for long, then.
     Venn kept murmuring to her as he checked her over, and then—satisfied that touching her
wouldn’t hurt her—he scooped her into his arms, cradling her small and fragile body against his
chest. Her downy hair was dark and matted to her head, and she instantly started rooting as she
nuzzled against him.
     He gave her the edge of his thumb, and she gummed it furiously. His heart broke. “Where is
your mother, little one?”
     She obviously had no answers. She merely pulled desperately at his thumb, her entire body
squirming.
     A twig snapped behind him.
     Venn clutched the babe to his chest with one broad hand as he whirled, his free hand diving
for his blade. He didn’t draw it, though.
     A boy—probably only seven or eight—stood across the small clearing. He clutched a small
bundle of wet cloth in one hand, and a dagger too large for his hand in the other. He was
Devendran, with sunburnt skin and brown hair, and though terror was in his eyes, so was anger.
“Put down my sister, or I’ll gut you.”

As always, author Heather Frost captures readers with the turn of the first page.  Another fast paced story filled with adventure, intrigue, and romance.  This story focuses on the broken relationship between Vera and Venn.  It’s about their past regrets and how to best move forward with life without each other.  Or does it need to be without?  Readers will just have to dive into this story to find out. An engaging and fabulously written story that picks right where book three’s cliffhanger leaves off.  Readers will not want to miss this next book in the fabulous Fate of Eyrinthia series.

Series: Fate of Eyrinthia
Genre: young adult, fantasy
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: July 14, 2022 
Number of pages: 241

Other books in the series:
0.5-Fire & Ash
1-Royal Decoy
2-Royal Spy
3-Royal Captive

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible.  A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.​