Srivalli Rekha (Semi Hiatus)'s Blog, page 9

The Red Fiend by Ranjit More - Book Review

Series: #1 (Cliffhanger) 

Publication Date: 08th Dec 2024

Genre: Hindu Mytho Fantasy 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: Interesting! A decent debut with a cliffhanger 

Drumila, the king of daityas, wants nothing more than to kill the Creator to avenge his mother’s death. He needs to find a way to breach the wall protecting svarga to gain reach the Creator. However, Drumila should first deal with the attacks by Nagas. 

Arundathi, the daughter of the Creator, is chosen for a mission to weaken Drumila, which would lead to his demise. She is ready for her mission despite what she has to do to achieve it. However, when she gets to know her target, Arundathi is surprised. When there’s another attack on the kingdom by the Nagas, will she stand by him or use it to fulfill her mission? 

The story comes in the third-person POVs of Shukracharya, Drumila, Arundathi/ Nandini, Ramishka, Havi, 

My Thoughts: 

Well, this has been my year so far for reading Indic fiction (#touchwood and hoping it continues). When the author contacted me for a review, I was a bit hesitant but curious. Indie Indic authors need support, so once I confirmed the book wouldn’t have anti-Hindu content, I was happy to read it. 

The book is fairly big (446 pages including the multi-page glossary at the end) and has a slow start. This makes sense since we are introduced to the setting and the characters. However, it’s far from boring. We have a short battle scene right in the beginning. There’s intrigue, danger, and drama! 

The heroine’s entry takes a while. She enters in the second part once the MMC’s story is fully established. The shift to her setting presents a good contract (and comparison) between the regions of the daityas and devas. Yet, we see similar underlying emotions and feelings. 

There’s much opulence with mentions of lavish gold, gemstones, and riches that can your head swim. Watching our pauranic movies has prepared me for all this, so it was easy to imagine the descriptions. 

A sudden shift to the earthly locations, especially the modern-day world, was unexpected. It pulled me out of the story for a while but I decided to go with the flow. The setting changed from full fantasy to a sort of urban fantasy a few times. I was prepared for it, so the subsequent shifts were seamless. 

While I liked the mentions of the delicious food, the word ‘chai-tea’ caught unawares. I mean, it’s the last thing I expected in a book by an Indian author. Also, I’m not sure why ‘u’ was used in place of ‘a’ in words like Maya and kanya. It sounds a bit off, TBH. 

The characterization is quite good. You can create a checklist of tropes as well – forbidden love, a sort of grumpy vs. sunshine, brooding alpha male who is gentle with his lady love, and so on! 

Though things are tense, I ended up chuckling at unexpected moments. This random sprinkling of humor makes the book more enjoyable. The writing is decent, though I feel an experienced editor or a woman editor would have made a difference. While physical attraction is a big part of the plot, the descriptions of the FMC are borderline comical (I can’t help but laugh and cringe at the mention of melon-like breasts). In short, you can tell this has been written by a man. At least the steamy scenes are not too descriptive. 

The romance is obviously insta attraction because it is the core of the plot. The FMC’s mission is to weaken the MMC through excessive lovemaking. Interestingly, this is a known concept in Hinduism. In Mahabharata, Vichitrariya was said to have died due to the same reason (but alas, without either of his wives conceiving). Bhyrappa used it to present a pattern in Parva (retelling of Mahabharata). 

By choosing to present the story from the daityas POVs, the author does a good job of creating the difference between good daityas and the unruly ones and providing a voice to those who often get clubbed together. Since we get the FMC and MMC’s POVs, we see both their sides and how they come to understand each other. 

Puranic war scenes have always been a favorite what with those powerful astras and the twangs of the bows. This book too details the scenes well. I love the mention of the various astras and how they work. These are easily the best parts of the book. 

However, the book ends on a cliffhanger. Yeah, something I figured out a bit too late. Hopefully, the sequel is in the works (I asked the author about it). 

Due to the large cast, I suggest adding a list of characters (and their roles) at the beginning. It would be easier to track them and refer them when necessary. 

To summarize, The Red Fiend is an entertaining debut novel presenting the conflict between daityas, devas, and nagas with a good rose of romance. Despite the flaws, the book would make an interesting read for those into this genre (desi readers are the target audience). 

My thanks to the author for a copy of the book. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions. 

A Village Theatre Murder by Katie Gayle - Book Review - Blog Tour

Series: Julia BirdMysteries #7

Publication Date: 11thMarch 2025

Purchase Link: https://geni.us/B0DGQL9HZFsocial

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218711555-a-village-theatre-murder

Genre: ContemporaryCozy Mystery

4 Stars

One Liner: This wasfun!

Book Blurb:

There’s nothing quitelike a night at the theatre. But Julia Bird is expecting a night of sweepingdrama, not an onstage murder!

At the end ofBerrywick’s amateur theatre’s latest production, a shot rings out amongst therapturous applause. But when Julia Bird peeks through the curtain,she sees lead actor Graham lying still on the stage, hisco-actor Oscar looking down at his prop gun in shock. Sheknows that Graham has been murdered, but with nearly everyone in the villagehelping with the play, anyone could have tampered with the props. And why was abeloved family man the target?

Graham’s wife Jane collapsesin a puddle of tears as Oscar is comforted and led away from the stage. Butdays later when Julia spots prim and proper Jane kissing Oscar, she wonders ifthe grieving widow’s tears were fake. Graham served Jane divorce papers the dayof the tragedy – was he killed before he could spill the beans on his wife’saffair, and sully her perfect reputation?

Meanwhile, the aptlynamed director, Roger Grave, wants the show to go on. The play isup for a local award, and this might just be Roger’s big break. But when failedactor Hector is not assigned the lead role he assumed he’d get, themood among the cast quickly turns sour. Could Hector have killed Graham out ofjealousy for the leading role, Julia wonders?

Then another member ofthe crew is found dead and Julia discovers there’s a dark secret at the heartof Berrywick’s local theatre society. But who would kill to protect it? CanJulia find the murderer before it’s curtains for another victim?

A totally gripping,charming cozy mystery set in the English countryside. Fans of M.C. Beaton,Faith Martin, and Betty Rowlands will absolutely love the Julia Bird Mysteries.

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in Julia’sthird-person POV.

This seventh book inthe series can work as a standalone. The official blurb reveals too much, sodon’t read it beyond the first two paragraphs.

The mystery is decentand has quite a few suspects as more truths come out. This keeps the readerguessing, though if you are a fan of this genre, you’ll guess the killer after50%. Still, there are a few surprising twists.

Things are steadybetween Julia and Dr. Sean even with the new development. In fact, I like theway Joan’s track progressed. Positive and hopeful.

As if Jake (theadorable bumbling chocolate Lab) and the hens with a bossy Henny Penny weren’tenough, Julia now has a cat named Chaplin. This cat is from the previous book.Though Chaplin doesn’t have much space, he establishes himself very well, in away only cats can!

There’s a teenydevelopment for Hayley too, though you’ll have to wait to know more. She isoverworked as always, what with so many murders happening in the series, lol.

Despite the murder andstuff, the book has quite a few humorous moments. My favorite is thedescription of Hector’s audition; I laughed so hard at that one.

Nicky appears a fewtimes since she’s a part of the theatre group but her cutie son Sebby doesn’tshow up even once. I miss that kid and his interactions with Jake-y. Jake ishis naughty self as always, though this might change a wee bit as he calmsdown. But where’s the fun in that?

To summarize, A VillageTheatre Murder is an enjoyable and short mystery with a few laughs and somethoughtful themes. There will be another book, so I’m excited for it.

Thank you, SarahHardy, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary andcontains my honest opinion about the book. 

#NetGalley

***

About the Authors –Katie Gayle

Katie Gayle is thewriting partnership of best-selling South African writers Kate Sidley and GailSchimmel. Kate and Gail have, between them, written over ten books of variousgenres, but with Katie Gayle, they both make their debut in the cozy mysterygenre. Both Gail and Kate live in Johannesburg with their husbands, children,dogs, and cats. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatieGayleWriter

X: https://twitter.com/KatieGayleBooks

Sign up to be the firstto hear about new releases from Katie Gayle here: https://www.bookouture.com/katie-gayle

Sign up for all thebest Bookouture deals you'll love at: http://ow.ly/Fkiz30lnzdo

***

This has been a pitstopon the blog tour for #AVillageTheatreMurder by Bookouture (@bookouture). Thankyou for stopping by! 

Girls: Life Isn't a Fairy Tale by Annet Schaap, Laura Watkinson (translator) - Book Review

Publication Date: 04th March 2025

Genre: Fairytale Retelling, Short Story Anthology,YA

3.9 Stars

One Liner: Darkish but suitable for YA readers

There are many fairytale retellings, right? Thisone, as the title suggests, focuses on the girls in these tales while pointingout that life is not a fairytale. Naturally, we can conclude that thecollection of seven stories will have a darker note. However, the target agegroup seems to be young adults, so the content isn’t gruesome or graphic. Thereare some triggers (at the end) but nothing terrifying.

The book was first published in Dutch in 2021. AnnetSchaap is an author and an illustrator. She included a few rough illustrationsin the book. The sketches are in black and white (pencil or charcoal) andrepresent a character or an item in the story. Each story has about 3-5illustrations. They don’t particularly add to the story but do create a senseof creepy vibe.

I reviewed each story after reading (as I alwaysdo).

Mr. Stiltskin – 3.5 Stars

(Retelling of Rumpelstiltskin)

The storyline is pretty similar to the Grimm’sversion with a few changes. However, it’s the ending that makes all thedifference. A rather good one; understated but good.

Wolf – 4 Stars

(Retelling of Little Red Riding Hood)

The story uses the core elements of the original andpresents it with a fresh perspective. It is set in the future where technologyis a bit more advanced than now. We get the girl’s and the wolf’s POVs, makingit an interesting read.

Biscuits – 4.5 Stars

(Retelling of Hansel and Gretel)

Oh, this is really good! Another modern retellingset in a city but the presentation of human nature is terrific. The kids didwhat they had to, and the adults did… well what they are known for! My favoritefrom the collection.

Frog – 3.5 Stars

(Retelling of The Frog Prince)

It took a while to determine if this was historicalor contemporary but I did find out! Here, the girl already has a frog that nowneeds to turn into a prince. She will soon realize that life isn’t a fairytale!It was good but not great.

Blue – 4 Stars

(Retelling of Bluebeard)

I didn’t read the original so I wondered what thiswas about (found it after finishing the story). This retelling has quite a fewchanges and works as a standalone as well. It’s the characters (Anne and Lisa)that stand out.

Sleeper – 4 Stars

(Retelling of The Sleeping Beauty)

It seems the book is also about sisterhood invarious forms! What if Sleeping Beauty had a twin sister? Do parents love onechild more than the other? Much to think about but it has a hopeful ending. Ilike this.

Monster Girl – 4 Stars

(Retelling of Beauty and the Beast)

This is the longest of the collection and quitedetailed. It moves between the past and the present, showing many elements ofsocial standards and expectations without being OTT. The ending is unexpectedtoo and well done.

NGL, I finished the stories much sooner than Iexpected. The writing style is easy to follow and the narration flows well evenbetween different POVs and timelines.

To summarize, Girls: Life Isn't a Fairy Tale is aninteresting take on fairytales and leaves readers with much to think about.There’s a lot that’s unsaid but left for readers to feel. Despite the darkness,quite a few stories have hopeful endings. I like the overall vibe. Willdefinitely look up more books by the author.

Thank you, NetGalley and Pushkin Children's Books,for eARC. 

#NetGalley #Girls

TW: Parental death,parental abandonment, body shaming, chronic illness, murder (non-graphic).

 

Divining the Leaves by Shveta Thakrar - Book Review

Publication Date: 04th March 2025

Genre: YA Magic Realism, Hindu Mytho Fiction 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: Love the setting but the MMC was an idiot (this has a strong Hindu & desi vibe)

Ridhi Kapadia loves plants, trees, and forests. She’d do anything to meet the yakshas and become one of them. After all, she can already listen to the plants talk. Moreover, the forest understands and accepts her, unlike her classmates who bully her. Wearing flower crowns and making natural perfumes, she just wants to be accepted into the magical forest kingdom she belongs to. 

The rich and famous Nilesh Batra had everything handed to him on a platter and drifted through life skimming the surface. Until he finds out that his parents’ perfect marriage was a sham all along. Angry and lashing out at everyone, he wants nothing to do with anyone. Until he meets Kamini, a yakshini from the enchanted forests his annoying once-childhood friend Ridhi loves. Smitten beyond his senses, Nilesh enters the land of yakshas unbothered by the dangers or consequences of his actions. 

However, there’s more than what meets the eye. Ridhi and Nilesh might learn a few lessons as they go. 

The story comes in Ridhi and Nilesh’s third-person POVs. 

My Thoughts: 

Firstly, the blurb makes it sound like it could be an enemies-to-lovers romance. It is NOT and I’m glad for it. By the way, just look at that cover! Oh, my! 

Secondly, I should no longer be surprised by the low ratings. Books with inherent Hindu framework don't appeal to the western audience. When readers say they like Hindu mythology (Puranas), they mean they like how THEY want it to be and not the actual one. So, books like Kaikeyi get high praise while books like this and Legend of Meneka have low ratings. Sure, this one has quite a few flaws but so did Kaikeyi and Goddess of the River. Still, those books were exotic and appealing for presenting our ithihasas in a western framework, totally removed from their roots and distorted beyond recognition. 

Anyhoo, rant over! 

I’ll talk about what could have been better before I discuss what I liked. So, 

The MMC, Nilesh. Yeah, he is a spoiled brat who needs a redemption arc. Yes, he is hurting and I tried to be sympathetic. But boy, if the yakshas were performing a human sacrifice, I’d immediately volunteer him and stand guard to supervise the ritual. The arc could have been great but the author lost control of it at some point. Maybe her focus was on the FMC and the setting and she realized a bit too late to salvage the situation. 

The hints of a queer angle almost went over my head until they were confirmed at the end. Subtle is good but you can’t be that subtle. Most of the readers can’t even see it. Heck, I missed it too but had a faint sense of ‘maybe’ which got confirmed on the last page. Why wait so long? Gosh, too little too late to blend into the plotline. A short paragraph when we get details of the past would have done the job. 

The pacing is not slow but the story is. That’s to say, not much happened until we reached the halfway mark and this is a big book, so that’s already 200 pages. As much as I loved the setting and wanted to join them in Alkapuri, not everyone feels the same. They need something else to keep them going, especially when the writing and setting are so desi. 

However, I cannot help but gush about the rest! 

The beginning is so lush and descriptive. The writing is evocative and pure poetry, especially the snippets at the start of each part. Yeah, the author relied on the thesaurus but I didn’t find it distracting (for a change). 

I’m so surprised that the blurb doesn’t talk about Holi given how significant it is for the plot. Instead of focusing on popular tropes, the blurb should have stayed true to the storyline. The book is set during spring when the colorful Hindu festival Holi is celebrated. There are quite a few descriptions of the preparations. The scenes of the actual event are vibrant and delightful. The festival has been seamlessly woven into the central plot and becomes the D-day where many things are revealed. 

Though it has American Indian families, the vibe is very desi. Think of saris, dupattas, chappals, kaju barfi, shirkand, dholka, kichidi, aloo sabzi, etc. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of this. The cultural heritage takes on a new shape by blending with donuts and burgers instead of being replaced. The Indian communities come in all shapes, sizes, and types in foreign lands and are a unique blend of desi and videsi. That aspect comes out very well. 

Ridhi is a darling. Yeah, she could do with a dose of self-confidence and thick skin but that’s supposed to be her arc. Every single mention of her dressing up and wearing bangles, anklets, and bindi made my heart soar. You go, girl! Be unapologetic about who you are. Who cares what others say? Here, the others are also Indians, so this isn’t about external racism with idiots being idiots no matter who they are or where they live. 

The seamless blend of real and magical. The setting easily shifts between the regular world and Alkapuri, the kingdom of yakshas. However, this may be confusing for some readers. I like that there’s no clear separator as the worlds also exist together, but it’s a risky decision. Readers unfamiliar with the concepts will be confused. 

The range of scents, trees, flowers, flavors, etc. is mesmerizing. On the negative side, it can be overwhelming for some readers. I loved it because it aligns with the yakshas. Everything is extrasensory and doubly clear, so the whole vibe is not only atmospheric but also heady and hypnotic. 

The mentions of Uravashi, Savitri, or Damayanti and using their stories to create perfumes. Since I know who they are and what their stories are, I can breathe in the scents mentioned on the screen. There’s a difference between liking something, knowing about it, and being an integral part of it. You will have full experience when you are a part of the story and its intricacies. Otherwise, it’s just pretty writing with exotic-sounding descriptions. 

Quite a lot happens in the last quarter. It can give readers a whiplash if they’ve struggled so far. Of course, no way to avoid it since the whole thing had to happen in the same series. Worked well for me but it might be confusing for others. 

To summarize, Divining the Leaves is a proper desi fantasy. It is atmospheric, inviting, and delicious (all that food). However, the MMC and a slow plot don’t do it any favors. Anyway, I enjoyed the book. Thank you for using the word mandir. 

Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins Children, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #DiviningTheLeaves

Ram C/o Anandi by Akhil P. Dharmajan, Haritha C.K. (translator) - Book Review

Publication Date: 20th Jan 2025

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Family Drama

2.7 Stars

One Liner: This is NOT a romance

Aspiring filmmaker Ram (Sriram), a Malyali, arrivesin Chennai to join a course at the film institute. There, he meets Anandi, thefierce receptionist who follows instructions to the dot. It is hate at firstsight but neither is prepared for it to turn into love. However, the couple hasmany hurdles to clear before they can find a way to be together.

The story comes in third-person POV.

My Thoughts:

I liked the cheerful characters on the cover and thecolor scheme. The premise sounded good, so I requested a copy. While thebeginning was great, the book soon spiraled into an OTT drama that got darkerand darker (yet without any intensity).

So, the good things first:

Given the setting, you should know that this is adesi book for the local audience, especially those who are at least a littlefamiliar with the traits of people from the city (Chennai). Though we are allIndians, each city has molded its people into certain types. A Hyderabadi isdifferent from a Chennaite who is different from a Mumbaikar and so on! Theland feels tangible on the pages and shows how much the author loves the city.

There’s a glossary at the end, though the meaningsof most words have been provided within the same context. I referred to theglossary only once but it’s helpful for those who need it more.

The first 60-70 pages are entertaining. It has alight vibe with diverse personalities. Though there’s no depth yet, it’s easyto keep them separate.

Making the MMC a softer and mellow character givesthe book a different appeal, which I hoped would work in its favor. The FMCseemed terrific and I was curious to know her backstory. Alas!

I appreciate the dry and detached tone whenpresenting dark scenes. This is not the genre for detailed descriptions of allthat abuse, so it’s a relief to stay at a distance from the events.

However, soon, things started to get too cliché andOTT. So, here’s what didn’t work for me:

The Goodreads blurb mentions in capitals that thisis the ‘most anticipated romance of 2025’. Based on the cover and premise, Ithought this would be a desi love story with some masala. Even the author’snote at the beginning mentions he says he is more of a storyteller and the bookhas a cinematic feel. I went in hoping for a steady-paced filmy romance withdrama and humor (the filmy kind, obviously). It got it in the first few pagesbut then… bam!

The book is not a romance read. There is NO romance,no chemistry, no connection, and no love story. In the acknowledgments at theend, the author mentioned the book was first titled Chennai Diaries. It shouldhave been retained as it’s a more apt title. I don’t know whose idea it was tomarket this as romance.

This is a social drama with themes like friendships,found family, violence against the trans community, transphobia, child abuse,and more. There’s a sprinkle of some filmy-style scenes of chasing and attacksto add to the ‘thrill’ element.

I won’t talk about the narration as we have beenwarned already. The flashbacks come in multi-page dialogues (which would beaccompanied by visuals on the screen). However, the overall vibe is superficialat best. The book was written to be made into a movie and has been stuffed withissues that needed better treatment. Some of the execution is outrightdisrespectful.

To summarize, Ram C/o Anandi is a social dramadealing with dark and triggering topics. Unfortunately, I didn’t find anyromance here, but good if you do. You may like it better.

Thank you, Blogchatter and HarperCollins India, fora copy of the book. This review is powered by the Blogchatter Book ReviewProgram and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

You can buy the paperback of Ram C/o Anandi on Amazon. 

Murder at Mill Ponds House by Michelle Salter - Book Review - Blog Tour

Series: Iris Woodmore Mysteries #6 (Not astandalone)

Publication Date: 09th March 2025

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/MillPondsHouse

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217973738-murder-at-mill-ponds-house

Genre: Historical Cozy Mystery

3.7 Stars

One Liner: Good

Book Blurb:

When murder hits close to home, Irismust fight to clear her name…

Spring, 1924.Reporter Iris Woodmore plans to move to London to avoid a shocking hometownscandal. Longtime enemy Archie Powell has been threatening to reveal herdarkest secret – and she’s desperate to flee before he does.

But when he’s found murdered after a violentargument with her, there’s no escape. Iris must stay and clear her name eventhough the truth could ruin her reputation.

With the police closing in, Iris has to find thereal killer if she wants to keep her secret. Can she prove her innocencewithout revealing the identity of the one man who can provide her with an alibi?

A gripping new mystery for fans ofVerity Bright, Clara McKenna, and Helena Dixon.

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in Iris’s first-person POV.

Considering the premise, this book wouldn’t beeffective as a standalone. You’ll have to read at least the previous book andpreferably the last three books to have a better idea and understand thesituation. There is enough background information if you want to jump right in.

The story starts four months after the previous bookends. It’s May Day and Iris is annoyed about her situation. The murder takes awhile to happen but this delay is necessary to catch up with the changes.

NGL, I was pretty irritated with the FMC in the lastbook. She made it hard to empathize with her even in this one but finally, sheshowed some promise. I like her mystery-solving brain. It’s her taste in men Ifind stupid. Anyway!

The dreaded nemesis is dead, and not surprisingly,there are quite a few suspects. After all, the man, despite his charming andmagnetic personality, made many enemies.

There’s quite a bit of repetition with the FMCrisking everything for someone who couldn’t and may not do the same for her. Itwas starting to grate on my nerves. She has been stuck in the loop for toolong. Okay, I understand… but TBH, I can’t say he deserves what she’s puttingherself through to protect him.

The mystery is well done. They are grasping at anylead and many are dead ends until a random and unexpected lead brings thingstogether to complete the picture.

Percy comes later on and we do see some of hisantics. There are new additions to the character list, and I think they willreappear in other books too. I sure am excited to see how a certain track willunfold.

The ending gives a lead to the next setting, andnaturally, something will happen for Iris to investigate. I can only hope shehas learned her lessons by now. Making her repeat the same mistakes wouldaffect her arc and make readers disinterested.

To summarize, Murder at Mill Ponds House is a goodcontinuation of the series and might be the book that marks a definite changein the FMC (if we are lucky). The mystery is cool and the pacing is decent, sogive it a go if you read the series before.

Thank you, Rachel's Random Resources andBoldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honestopinion about the book. 

#NetGalley

***

Michelle Salter Says

Thanks for taking the time to stop by. You’ll seeall my books are classic murder mysteries – because golden age whodunnits arethe stories I enjoy reading most.

I love to create memorable characters and deviseintriguing plots with a focus on mystery rather than violence.

I live in Hampshire, England, and it’s the settingfor many of my books. My standalone novel, Murder at Merewood Hospital,features Sister Helen Hopgood, the last nurse left in a military hospital inHampshire at the end of the First World War.

I also have family connections to Devon, and thefourth Iris Woodmore Mystery, A Killing at Smugglers Cove, is set on the southcoast of Devon in 1923. Iris is back in her native Hampshire for A Corpse inChristmas Close, set in Winchester over Christmas 1923, and Murder at MillPonds House, which begins on 1st May 1924.

You can read all of my books as standalone novels,even the Iris Woodmore Mysteries, as each is a separate story, although thecharacters develop as the series progresses.

I hope you enjoy reading or listening to my books.

Follow the Author:

Facebook: @MichelleSalterWriter

Instagram: @michellesalter_writer

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MichelleSalterNews

Bookbub Profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/michelle-salter

***

This has been a stop on the #MurderAtMillPondsHouseblog tour by Rachel's Random Resources (@rararesources).Thanks for stopping by!

Breathings of the Moon by Byrd Nash - Book Review

Publication Date: 01st Dec 2024

Genre: Mystery, Paranormal, Family Drama 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: Great premise; wanted more from it 

Zoe Underhill can share other people’s memories with just a touch. She can even take on their memories to become a new person. This ancestral gift made her run far away to live a life free of chaos and dysfunctional drama. However, Zoe’s brother comes for her; their mother (who disappeared twenty years ago) has been found dead. To find the truth, her brother needs Zoe’s help to access the memories of their family members and separate emotions from facts. 

Legend says Abraham Underhill, Zoe’s ancestor stopped by the Gale in 1898 to save Kingstowe. In return, he and his family were gifted strange powers. The townsfolk are wary of the Underhill family because of this. 

As the 130th anniversary of the Gale approaches, Zoe realizes that she needs to tap into the past and her own memories to find the truth. 

The story comes from Zoe’s first-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

I’ve enjoyed the author’s works before, so was excited to read this one. The premise is terrific. Imagine a person with the power to see your memories with just a touch! 

There’s a bit of everything, which can make it hard to highlight a single genre. It has dysfunctional family drama, a mystery about the mother’s disappearance, paranormal abilities, and a touch of romance. 

The family drama gets the highest marks. The tension, toxicity, and stress of living with such people are very well done. I could feel the same itch as Zoe, to escape the house and go somewhere peaceful. The relationship dynamics are complex and the characters are just as messy, adding to the feeling of suffocation. This can be a trigger for some readers. 

The mystery is okay, decent enough as the family drama often takes over. Can’t help it since both tracks are interconnected. I could guess the killer halfway through and got it right, though I didn’t know the reason until the reveal. 

The FMC’s abilities are shown through various scenes. This makes it easy to understand how her abilities work as well as see the side effects. I like her enough, though something feels missing. I can’t point out what exactly, sorry! 

The MMC, Duncan, is the right type of counterpart for the FMC. His stability and steadfastness are evident. It is easy to see why the FMC is attracted to his calm and assured personality. At the same time, he is competent and assertive; just not in-your-face type, and a very comforting presence to have around. 

While the story definitely has some atmosphere, I was hoping for more. I need to feel the storm and salty sea breeze around me. Some scenes were quite there but some weren’t. 

The side characters have definite personalities. I like that the relationship between Zoe and her brother is a bit strained but they also share a deep sibling bond. It feels realistic. 

The climax is pretty cool. I like how the resolution aligns with the character’s personality and delivers justice. 

However, the ending is more of HFN and a bit open-ish. An epilogue set a year or two later would have helped a lot. I want to know if the nasty old aunt got what she deserved. Maybe newsletter subscribers can get a bonus epilogue (hint, hint). 

To summarize, Breathings of the Moon is an intriguing and dark story about family secrets, memories, and relationships. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Rook and Castle (Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles), for eARC. 

#NetGalley #BreathingsOfTheMoon

Wizard of Most Wicked Ways by Charlie N. Holmberg - Book Review

Series: Whimbrel House #4

Publication Date: 04th March 2025

Genre: Historical Mystery, Romance 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: Great action scenes 

1851 

It has been five years and Whimbrel House is seeing many changes. Hulda and Merrit have kiddos. Owein is a little over eighteen and living with them. Fallon, the shape-shifting druid, is a regular visitor and Owein’s best friend, even if others don’t know about her yet. Owein’s contracts bind him to Cora. The Queen is waiting for Cora to be eighteen so that the wedding can take place. 

However, the found family has to first deal with the return of Silas Hogwood. The powerful necromancer is back, intent on vengeance. Owein is worried his powers and the new human body aren’t enough to fight Silas and keep his loved ones safe. 

The story comes in the third-person POV of Owein, Hulda, Merrit, and Silas. 

My Thoughts: 

This is the fourth book in what was originally supposed to be a trilogy. There will be a fifth and final book in the series, so this ends in a cliffhanger.  

The central plot with Hulda and Merrit is sort of over in the previous book but there was a lead to this and the next one, where Owein is the main character. Since I loved the kiddo when he was a house and dog, I had to see through and support him find his HEA. 

However, I’m not a fan of love triangles in any form, especially if it involves teenagers (like go and study, what are you doing choosing between ‘loves’). What with the poor kid unable to decide, this one didn’t appeal much to me. 

However, the pacing is great. Maybe because there’s quite a bit of filler content with some atmospheric and dangerous scenes sprinkled in between. 

I loved the scene of the villain’s reentry and the havoc he creates on the island. All scenes with Silas are terrific and filled with tension, fear, and pulse-pounding action. 

The book ends on a cliffhanger though one track seems to be resolved (for now). I’m sure it’ll be revived in the next book.  

To summarize, Wizard of Most Wicked Ways is a fast-paced read with some drama and danger to keep the plot interesting. Let’s see what happens in the final book of the series. Bring it on! 

Thank you, NetGalley and 47North, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #WizardOfMostWickedWays

Red Runs the Witch's Thread by Victoria Williamson - Book Review

Publication Date: 11th April 2024 

Genre: Dark Historical Fantasy 

4.5 Stars 

One Liner: This was so much (in a good way)!  

Paisley, Scotland, 1697

An eleven-year-old Christian Shaw’s accusation of witchcraft led to the death of thirty-five people. 

Bargarran House, 1722

Christian returns home, intent on perfecting the bleaching process to revive her family fortune. She also hopes her attempts will purify their past sins. However, with the twenty-fifth anniversary of the witch hunt approaching, Bargarran House seems to have become a center of dark forces. This affects her sanity and safety to the point where she wonders if she can get what she wants. And what cost? 

The story comes in Christian’s third-person POV in 1722 and first-person POV (in present tense) in 1697. 

My Thoughts: 

I remember my friend Rosh reviewing this book last year. Later in 2024, I read and enjoyed the author’s MG Dystopian Adventure. When this was available on NetGalley, I didn’t even think and requested it right away. 

This is a novella of 185-195 pages that packs quite a lot. Almost from the beginning, I disliked the MC (there’s a strong reason for it). As the book progressed and more details were revealed, I couldn’t stop reading even for a breather. This was intense in many ways. 

I wanted a certain ending but felt unsatisfied with how it was resolved. However, the author’s note at the end explained the reason. The MC is based on a real person, so the author couldn’t deviate from the overall trajectory. Still, a part of me feels assured that the future wasn’t easy. 

The atmosphere gets 100/100. I love it! The ravens, darkness, madness, the house, and just about everything add to the narrative. 

The way the narration spirals aligns with the character development. Quite a few dark themes are used but without making things unnecessarily graphic. 

My heart bled for the witches. But then, this is just one story. The reality was a thousand times worse. All of it was presented in these few pages – Christian domination, pagan hatred, suppression of women, class differences, social hatred, and much more. 

What do I even say about the MC, Christian? Man, I tried my best to feel sorry but… Her obsession with perfecting the bleaching process to get the whitest thread is much more than entrepreneurship. 

The side characters, be it the family or the dutiful Meg, are so well developed within the limitations. Terrific! 

The title and the cover are clever. I love the title a lot more (wish I was this talented in naming my stories). If only the ending was a wee bit more detailed. I can see why it ended that way, I do! But I also want a little more from it. What happens doesn’t feel enough considering the events. 

To summarize, Red Runs the Witch's Thread is a gripping, dark, and atmospheric novella about witch hunts. It is best read in a single sitting (you can finish the book in 60-80 minutes). That said, the writing style may not work for everyone. 

Thank you, NetGalley, Silver Thistle Press, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #RedRunstheWitchsThread

From Provence, With Love by Alison Roberts - Book Review - Blog Tour

Series: A Year in France #2

Publication Date: 25th Feb 2025

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/ProvenceWithLove

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219294344-from-provence-with-love

Genre: Contemporary Romance

4 Stars

One Liner: Touching!

Book Blurb:

A life-changing encounter, a whirlwindaffair... an unexpected consequence

Laura Gilchrist has always made sensible choices.But a trip to Provence to sell an inherited stone house leads her face to facewith Noah Dufour. Her wild, irresistibly attractive real estate agent. Andwithin an instant, she’s bewitched. Without a second thought, she decides she’sgoing to accept his offer to ride on the back of his motorbike and see thebeauty of the South of France through his eyes. She’s never acted on impulsebefore, but Noah makes her feel spontaneous and free – and a little bit excited.

Weeks later, with the memories of their passionatefling refusing to fade, Laura waits for her life to return to normal. But shecan’t shake the feeling something has changed. And then her instincts areconfirmed by the sight of two blue lines. Their connection was a whirlwind;perfect yet brief. But Noah has become a chink in her buttoned-up armor and sheknows her news is going to blindside him. Now she must return to Provence tofind out whether they can both take a leap of faith based on one brief yetperfect holiday romance…

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My Thoughts:

The story comes in Laura (more %) and Noah’sthird-person POVs.

This is the second book in the series. Though itworks as a standalone, reading the first book might help.

It is divided into three parts. The first part and asolid portion of the second occur parallel with the first book. They share thesame timeline but here the focus is on the other sister. There might be a bitof repetition but since we see it from Laura’s POV, it works (and fills thegaps for those who didn’t read book #1).

I love, love the description of the setting. SouthFrance sounds so beautiful with its old-world charm and nature's bounty. The sceneat lavender fields is my favorite; the descriptions were so vivid that I couldfeel myself breathing in the scent of lavender. While we also get details offood which I liked, the location takes the spotlight.

Laura’s arc in the first book, especially at thebeginning doesn’t do her much favor. We see her soft side later but this onereveals her layers wonderfully. Seeing her love for her little sister is like awarm hug. Her vulnerability is well presented, making it easy to empathize withher.

Noah is easy enough to like though he does make youwant to whack sense into his head at times. However, he is a good guy and hesteps up when necessary. He has a sad backstory which shows he is not an idiot;just someone afraid.

While the romance is a bit insta, there’s nopretense about it. Moreover, enough emotions are woven into the scenes toslightly slow the pace. I appreciate this decision.

I’m a bit surprised that there’s no real progress onthe overarching plot. I thought there would be some development. Maybe it’llhave more focus in book three. Also, we know almost nothing about the othersister, Fiona, so her book will be interesting.

To summarize, From Provence, With Love is aheartwarming story set in a beautiful location. While it is primarily aromance, the parts that appealed the most to me were family bonds and personalgrowth.

Thank you, Rachel's Random Resources andBoldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honestopinion about the book. 

#NetGalley

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About the Author – Alison Roberts

Alison Roberts is the author of over one hundredromance novels, joining Boldwood to write ‘Wish You Were Here’ fiction set inthe South of France.

Follow the Author:

X/ Twitter: @RobertsAli54060

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/AlisonRobertsNews

Bookbub profile: @rosi3

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This has been a stop on the #FromProvenceWithLoveblog tour by Rachel's Random Resources (@rararesources).Thanks for stopping by!