All This & More by Peng Shepherd

45-year-old Marsh is the lucky contender on the third season of All This and More, a reality television show that uses quantum technology to change reality, enabling them to change their past and future. Marsh never followed her dreams of becoming a lawyer, traveling, lacks a romantic relationship and was recently fired (ouch). She's given the opportunity over the course of the television season to see these alternate reality options and keep perfecting them until ultimately, she would have to pick the reality to become real in the season finale. But, is everything really in her control? It seems like other forces are impacting the choices she makes, and over the course of the episodes it becomes apparent to Marsh that something is definitely wrong, and it's up to her to figure out what before everyone she cares about's lives are changed forever.

If you could go back or forward in time and change the choices you made over the course of your life, would you? Maybe you'd get the degree you always wanted, or move to a certain place, or spend more time with a loved one before they were gone. Even temporarily to live in those realities for a small amount of time for the experience of it. Marsh has the opportunity to change and change and keep changing to make everything "perfect". The endless seeking of perfection comes with its own problems, and each reality option in the effort to fix one thing leads to unwanted consequences in something else. The saying, "too good to be true" couldn't be more accurate. There's also some interesting ethics issues on changing the lives of other people connected to Marsh without their input and awareness that would have been interesting to further explore. I'm surprised that there was no government oversight on it. That would be another interesting (and necessary, I think), aspect to add if there was a sequel.

Beyond the topic of the book itself, I initially loved the format where you choose how the story ends and the choices that Marsh makes in The Bubble (what they call the technology that lets you change reality). Each choice for something else to be changed are not entirely distinct chapters with elements and sometimes exact phrases mixed in from previous choices the reader had made before. This allows the mystery to occur, the suspicious feeling that something is not quite right with how details get mushed together. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to write this type of book and get multiple storylines to make sense, and be consistent with clues in the overall mystery. I also will say that it was a fitting format for the plot to help with reader engagement and connecting with Marsh where you are making choices while Marsh also makes choices. However, loving the premise of getting to choose what happens next leads to some unique issues. 

 If you don't keep track of your choices, you end up often right back where you started reading the same thing that you did before, almost like being stuck in a time loop. What would have been very helpful was to have something like a mind map that illustrates visually what leads to what to help if you basically get lost. It is difficult to retrace your steps if you wanted to go back and read a certain section over again. It seemed like almost all of the major mystery-solving revelations occurred in this one specific section that I then could not remember where it was to read again. Honestly, I'm not entirely sure what the point was in making it a choose-your-own-adventure format if the reader ends up going in circles and selecting every other choice anyway to get out. The premise and idea was excellent, but the execution lacking.The mystery itself was fairly well-written and the core revelations were foreshadowed just enough to not spoiler it but still make the truth shocking. Shepherd's talent likely lies in her mystery writing, and I likely would have enjoyed the book more without the choices as a full-blown mystery novel.

Are there other choose-your-own-adventure books you'd recommend?

Title: All This & More
Author: Peng Shepherd

Publisher: William Morrow
Pages: 469
Series: No
Rating: 3 Stars
Goodreads

Screamcatcher: Sa’be Most Monstrous (Screamcatcher book 4) by Christy J. Breedlove

Screamcatcher: Sa'be Most Monstrous is the fourth book in the YA paranormal fantasy Screamcatcher series that was sent to me by the author. The Badlands Paranormal Society has received their next client. Tonya, who calls because her husband has gone missing after investigating what seems to be numerous violent Bigfoot- aka "Sa'be". Jory and her friends soon realize that there is more to the folklore than meets the eye, and helping their client will require more than firepower: willpower and empathy. 

After reading the previous book, The Shimmering Eye, I wondered how Breedlove would be able to top it. Interestingly, the author shifted from gunfights and explosives to killing the enemy with kindness. I think that strategic choice was a smart one so that the reader doesn't constantly compare the book to the previous one, which is common in series. Not to mention this concept was very unique. The choice Jory and her team made to instead show respect to the creature and its family and offer peace was I think incredibly smart. This also provided a test of wills to the characters of their level of self-control. Contrary to the mostly physical test of the previous books, this was a test of mental strength and agility, an interesting pivot point. 

Bigfoot is commonly portrayed in the media and in conversations in matters that are offensive (such as the name itself), ridiculing, or made into various jokes. Perhaps that is just my scientific/inquisitive mind, but I found learning about their intellect, social structure, and motivations fascinating. I am sure there are several mythology books that deal with Sasquatches, however I doubt that there are many with the level of empathy and detail as this. This book also serves as a lesson to not assume the worst in others or judge them on their differences. The Sa'be had their own motivations and reasoning that weren't purely violent, and the end reason for why they kept Kyle was ingenious.  It certainly wasn't as fast-paced or perhaps as exciting as the previous books, but I was very interested in learning about the Sa'be itself. I also know next to nothing of Native American culture and beliefs. Contrary to the obvious paranormal fantasy from the previous books, this could be labeled realistic fiction. Without evidence, I cannot say if I believe that Sasquatches exist, but it could be possible.

I highly recommend this series and this book! 

Title: Screamcatcher: Sa’be Most Monstrous
Author: Christy J. Breedlove
Publisher: Fire & Ice Young Adult Books
Pages: 246
Series: Yes, Book 4
Rating: 5 Stars
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Screamcatcher: The Shimmering Eye (Screamcatcher Book 3) by Christy J. Breedlove

Screamcatcher: The Shimmering Eye is the third book in the YA paranormal fantasy Screamcatcher series that was sent to me by the author. Moving on from just dreamcatchers, Jory and her friends' Badlands Paranormal Society travel to a large ranch in Montana to help Ambrose, a homeowner struggling to fight against physical and mental attacks from something... evil. What the teens face is nothing the have ever seen before. Are they ghosts? Aliens? Spirits? Interdimensional beings? As Jory's team works to learn what is causing the paranormal events plaguing this property, they are pushed to their breaking points. Whatever it is, it has been around for thousands of years- and it and its army of horrific creatures aren't going down without a fight.

In a twist, the characters are no longer facing evil spirits inside dreamcatchers, but paranormal beings in general. This separated the installment from the rest of the series and stepped up its game, sending the characters into seriously freaky, unknown territory. I don't even know how to describe this book except a mix between Gremlins, Scooby-Doo, and Ghostbusters. I will say, if this was a movie, I probably wouldn't be able to deal with actually looking at the grotesque creatures! What also strikes me is that these teenagers do not have magical powers or abilities, and still manage to hold their own against monsters that look like they could have come out of a Marvel movie or Star Trek. 

I was very impressed with how despite the horrors of what the characters were facing, the writing still managed to have light-hearted moments, and at times I laughed at some of the metaphors and just how utterly bizarre the scene was. I typically do not read horror, and I think this is what sets it apart from other books that may deal with paranormal investigations/hauntings/invasions is its ability to be utterly terrifying while also having moments of calm and lightness. 

In my review of the previous book, I wrote that I thought the characters were insane for going back into a another dreamcatcher after what happened in the first book, and that I would have run away as fast as possible. Now, I say that they are seriously brave, and yes, sort of insane, for choosing this for the rest of their lives and not going to college. I'm surprised they didn't go to college first and major in something like Cultural Anthropology or Folklore and Mythological Studies (yes, that actually does exist as a major, even Harvard has it). They're just kids, facing what no person should ever have to, let alone want to. I'm not saying that its unrealistic or unbelievable, but that it is admirable and extraordinary. The psychiatric toll of what they have seen and experienced should be immense, and I was glad that the book continued to deal with changes in their personalities and decision making, both for the positive and negative. It will be interesting to see if Darcy has any lasting repercussions in the next book. 

I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next, Sa'be Most Monstrous.

Title: Screamcatcher: The Shimmering Eye
Author: Christy J. Breedlove 
Publisher: Fire & Ice Young Adult Books
Pages: 224
Series: Yes, Book 3 of 4
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Extant (The Coelacanth Project Book 1) by Sarah Newland

Extant is a YA science fiction book that was sent to me by the author. It is the first book of two in The Coelacanth Project series. Friends Natalie, Leo, Tawny, Owen & Brant have always known that their parents' jobs were unusual, and that they have been keeping secrets. After their homes and offices are bombed, and their parents missing/assumed dead, the teens run to Natalie's uncle, who reveals the teens are genetically altered as part of the Coelacanth project and given the ability to teleport when in contact with seawater and aurichalcum. The organization Nautilus, who claim to want to achieve world peace, follow and attack the teens. seeking to manipulate their abilities.

I understand that while Natalie was imprisoned, she was trying to examine the past events to hopefully find clues to help her escape. However, I was not a fan of alternating chapters between the past and the present, for a few reasons. The main reason for me was the different pace of the past and present, as well as the pace that I went at while reading, which sometimes made it hard for me to follow the course of events. It was also sometimes not very clear if the chapter took place in the past or the present. A simple headline of what the date was at the top of each chapter would have been a great help. The second was for spoilers; I typically enjoy the flow of a story and natural discovery, rather than knowing what happens before the characters do. I would have rather discovered their powers and the truth behind who they are as the characters did so. Switching viewpoints through time actually symbolically made sense at the end of the book with a revelation of another power that Natalie has, but personally that style of storytelling isn't my favorite. 

A main theme of the book is to question everyone's motives and what you assume about the world around you. Does that make you paranoid or careful? One question I have is why Nautilus attacked in the first place. I understand that they are an extremist organization and thought that violence was necessary, but if the goal is to use these teen's powers to make the world a peaceful and safer place, why not just approach them and have a conversation, invite them to join the cause and only then if they said no, use violence? It seemed counterproductive, and I am curious to find out more about what the organization actually does in the next book.

One thing I appreciated was how despite being science fiction, the chemistry as to why the teens' powers work only in the ocean with the aurichalcum "spark" was actually scientifically feasible. The specific concept of their powers was also quite creative; I have never read a book before with powers so specific and unique in this requirement. I also admired the bravery of Natalie and the other teens. They could teleport across the world to wherever they want, to start their lives over, and yet decided to try to find their adoptive parents and fight back. I do not know if I would have done the same. 

While I overall enjoyed the story and thought it was creative, my dislike of the book's strategy of constantly switching perspectives back and forth through time, despite the connection in the end, was bothersome enough to rate the book 3/5 stars. However, I am interested in reading the next book, Chymist. 

Title: Extant
Author: Sarah Newland
Publisher: Hiking Hedgehog Press
Pages: 406
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 3 Stars
Goodreads

Dark Room Etiquette by Robin Roe

Dark Room Etiquette is a YA thriller that was sent to me by the publisher. This book will be released in two weeks on October 11. 

Sayer Wayte has grown up with a life of money and privilege. One day, a man run Sayer off the road and kidnaps him. This man, Caleb, chains Sayer and tells him that he is his real father, that Sayer's parents kidnapped him when he was 10 and that his real name is Daniel. He eventually acts the part of Daniel to survive, as the months go by and his escape attempts continue to fail. But eventually, he loses himself. Eventually faced with a re-entry into society, Sayer must rediscover who he is.

I'll admit, I had trouble caring about Sayer in the beginning, when he was a bully. But nobody deserves what happened to him. I haven't read a book that made me cry, really cry, in a long time. I'm not sure if that is embarrassing or not, but Dark Room Etiquette is emotionally jarring with how real it feels. There was one particular scene in the classroom with crayons that stirred something inside me. I don't think I have ever read a book so accurate about Stockholm Syndrome and the lasting trauma that follows, likely due to Roe's experience in psychology and special education. It also makes me upset that the school didn't offer him more support. The nerve of that guidance counselor! Doesn't he know what Sayer went through? 

Many books surrounding kidnappings end pretty quickly after the person is found or escaped, but I loved that a good chunk of the book focused on the aftermath of that event. The dynamic between Sayer and Evan was particularly interesting to me, and I was so happy that he had someone to talk to, to help him make sense of what he went through in that house. Dealing with this trauma has a different component when his memories became distorted, when everything that he thought was true and his beliefs about himself and the people he loved were challenged. For some parts that I was reading, I actually wondered if Caleb was telling the truth. Roe manipulated Sayer just as the reader. We are both in the dark and battling the same lack of knowledge. 

I highly recommend this book! I already re-read it, as I loved it so much.

Title: Dark Room Etiquette 
Author: Robin Roe
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 512
Series: No
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

The Memories of Eskar Wilde by E.H. Wilde

The Memories of Eskar Wilde is a YA realistic fiction book that was sent to me by the author. Eskar Wilde had just turned 18, and faced with grief and uncertainty, he sits down to write a memoir of his life over the past few years. From his father's suspicious death to his unfortunate love life, Eskar tells a story filled with mystery and mistakes.

While organized as a memoir, the author explained that too much of it was fictionalized to be labeled that way. E.H. Wilde is also a pen name.

Despite the informal tone, the writing still felt sophisticated. I tend to enjoy books that are structured as journals and where the reader feels valued by the protagonist. Eskar is a good person who highly values his family, and I enjoyed reading the passages that focused on the relationship between him and his mother. I was pleased that he acknowledged his mistakes and had a matured sense of self-reflection. I was initially concerned that he wasn't allowing himself to feel grief, anger, and sadness, but I was happy with Eskar's emotional development towards the end. 

The Memories of Eskar Wilde isn't particularly exciting, but it is still an intriguing and perhaps a calming story. I am not a person who understands French, and I am grateful that the translations to French dialogue were given in the footer. I am a person who highly values background information, but the one complaint that I would have is that at times it felt like too much information, and at times I skimmed some pages in a rush to find out what happens next! The ending was most certainly bittersweet. While I was secretly hoping for a happily-ever-after, I appreciate how it stuck to realistic outcomes. 

I recommend that you read this book!

Title: The Memories of Eskar Wilde
Author: E.H Wilde
Publisher: Tablo Pubishing
Pages: 384
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Coming of the Spirits (Spirits Book 5) by Rob Keeley

The Coming of the Spirits is the fifth and final book in the middle grade fantasy series Spirits that was sent to me by the author. Ellie and Clara's plan in 1936 to set World War 2 back on track went awry. Present-day has the Nazis controlling Britain with the powers of the spirit world. History calls upon Ellie one last time, to finally be the Grand Defender and seal the breach between the spirit world and the mortal one. Except this time, Ellie has had enough with others ordering her future. Torn between the past, present, and the future, Ellie's friends from all over the timeline must come together and help her save the world one final time.

A great quote that sums up the book is from the pilot of DC's Legends of Tomorrow: "If we have the power to change the world, don’t you think we have the power to change our own fate?" Especially when the friends across time and worlds come together, it reminded me of that CW show. 

The majority of the series focused on Ellie helping others and bonding with other characters; in contrary, The Coming of the Spirits delved deep into the root of who Ellie is and the events in her life that changed time. Ellie has gone from a child to 18. In that time, she has grown not only physically, but emotionally and mentally. The setting of the books have aged with her appropriately. This the most intense and dystopian of the series. One climatic event was even a bit scary to me with its detailed imagery. As usual, Keeley's descriptions and settings were vivid and real. It is actually hard to believe that it was only 144 pages with how much had happened and how gripping the plotline was.

The series did wrap up surprisingly well. The ending was definitely unexpected. I was not prepared for that change of destiny, and I cannot find any foreshadowing that leads to this shock. While heartbreaking in the moment, I can understand why Keeley chose to end the series this way. While the choice seems almost contradictory to the plotline and previous books, it does attune to a theme of changing destinies and the course of history.

Overall I largely enjoyed the series and highly recommend it. The second book, The Spirit of London, is still my favorite. 

See my review of:

The forth book, High Spirits

The third book, The Sword of the Spirit

The second book, The Spirit of London

The first book, Childish Spirits

Title: The Coming of the Spirits
Author: Rob Keeley
Publisher: Troubador Publishing Ltd
Pages: 144
Series: Yes, Book 5 of 5
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Journey to the Kingdom of No Return (Shelf Life Book 2) by Leslie R. Henderson

Journey to the Kingdom of No Return is the second book in the Shelf Life series that was sent to me by the author. Little Book accomplished his dream of becoming an international best-seller, and is back in the bookstore. But soon, he learns that his shelf-life is running out, and he will be put on sale. Desperate to have more time, he strikes a deal with the lead Space-Arranger to go on a reconnaissance mission to the dark side and retrieve scifi hero Luke Shelfwalker, who has apparently been booknapped to the dark side.

I find it really funny that the video game section is the furthest back in the store that borders the dark side. Is there some symbolism to the dark nature of video games over books? I enjoyed the extension of the setting of the bookstore. The "dark side" actually takes place in the storage room. The assumption would be that nobody cleans out the storage spaces, so the books and other items can stay there forever. The cover is once again amazing, and it shows an actual scene from the story. Henderson also did a great job making that environment creepy; I hate spiders and silverfish. *Shudder*

I enjoyed the subtle humor and frustration, like how Timothy Smithers never puts a book back where it belongs. I understand that frustration completely as I used to volunteer at my local library. Putting the children's section and the ones near it back in order were quite a chore sometimes. It is also true that sunlight can fade the art of a book and can trigger chemical changes in the pages, and many places do try to rotate shifts of what books are in the windows the longest. I also love the comedic and truthful timing of phases like "guns and kids don't mix" (49).

I may be reading too much into this, but one thing I found a bit strange or slightly confusing was that it was never mentioned how many copies of each book there were; one would assume that with how Little Book a best seller that he would have been sold; or he is the only one of x amount of copies that is "alive" and stayed in the bookstore out of luck? Or does each copy of the book have the same memories and thoughts and personalities? Also, one would think that being on sale is sort of a good thing; being right at the front of the store with a compelling price would make it more likely that they would be sold; isn't it ironic that the books are desperate not to go on sale as a last-ditch effort to be sold and want to stay in the bookstore forever? 

I recommend that you read this book and I look forward to reading the next one!

Read my review of the previous book in this series, Never Turn the Page Too Soon.

Title: Journey to the Kingdom of No Return
Author: Leslie R. Henderson
Publisher: Leslie R. Henderson
Pages: 209
Series: Yes, Book 2
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Dawn Rising (Marked Book 1) by A.F.E. Smith

Dawn Rising is the first in the YA fantasy series Marked. The author sent me this book to review. Alyssia Gale's earliest memory is the car accident that killed her parents four years ago. Since then, her visions have only intensified, transporting her into the lives of four people in pain in the different world of Endarion. Alyssia tries to tell herself that none of it is real, but that becomes impossible to believe when she literally falls through a window into that other world. Rather than focusing on how to get home, she sees a chance for her to help her four "friends" get out of their painful situations. Along the way, she may not only save them, but also learn the truth about who she is and her family.

This book uniquely mixes reality and issues of mental illness, discrimination, abuse, and corruptness with a fantasy world. Alyssia's visions was a captivating take to telling the lives and background stories of the other characters. I did guess the plot twist at the end of who Alyssia really is, and it was enjoyable to see that I was right. What made the journey of them through Endarion amazing was not the setting of the world, but why the characters were there and their motivations for the sacrifices and choices they made along the adventure.

Alyssia is beyond brave, braver than I would be in that situation. Falling through a window and then seeing the people inside her head? I would have been freaking out. Her noble qualities of trying to save them in spite of what might happen to herself are admirable. I did enjoy more reading about Alyssia's life here and in school than in Endarion. While not the best choice, I applaud Alyssia for standing up for herself. I look forward to seeing more of her life in Woodleigh and in her high school in the coming books and her relationship with her classmates. I do not blame Peter for no longer being her friend as he was bullied into doing so. I hope that Colin will eventually get the punishment that he deserves. 

Each character had their own unique challenges and diverse feelings. Oriana struggled with overcoming physical and emotional abuse from her husband and her disgraced healing abilities. I enjoyed her character development of finding strength within herself, and even laughing again. Fabithe is the most interesting of them. His darkened heart from battle set on revenge conflicting with his unconscious desire to have companionship and care for something. Finding a balance between violence and caring was extremely difficult for him, but the most fascinating to watch. Toralé is the most mysterious of the bunch, as the majority of his story is based on him being tortured and locked away for a crime he didn't commit. I look forward to learning more about him in the following books.

I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to read the next, The Dark Knife. 

Title: Dawn Rising
Author: A.F.E. Smith
Publisher: Ironwright Books
Pages: 303
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 5
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

The Patient from Silvertree (Silvertree Book 1) by Marian Dribus

The Patient from Silvertree is a YA realistic fiction book that was sent to me by the author. 40 years ago, a brilliant scientist named Peterson invented a new drug to treat cancer. However, his experiments were unethical, and so he went to jail. Sixteen-year-old Lisa's father is an oncologist. One day an old friend of her father's comes to visit, delivering an ultimatum to treat her cancer with the drug Peterson invented. When he agrees to illegally treat her, it draws unwanted attention that puts Lisa and everyone she loves in danger. 

The Patient from Silvertree is one moral dilemma after another, where nearly each impossible decision brought them one step closer to losing their conscience or humanity. This story goes down a darker path of medical ethics and the life-and-death sacrifices one is willing to make for the ones they love- or the ones they loathe. While I tend to love inspirational stories, ones that show the darker side of humanity are just as- if not more- important.

Graham, one of the main antagonists, is my favorite character. He is not evil, but is held in an impossible situation and is forced to commit horrific acts. He does have a moral compass and seems to do his best to avoid violence. I love it when the "villain" has internal conflicts. I hope in the sequel his backstory is revealed. The book also touches on emotional issues, which were mostly depicted realistically. As far as the romance between Lisa and Josh goes, it was predictable, but also pressured and unusual. For the plot, that turns out to be an advantage.

This was one of the more interesting, skillful endings that I have read in a long time. Quite the contrary from happily ever after, this ending is perfect for the story's darker tone and setting with a perfect balance between resolution and the unknown. At the end of the day we want all the bad guys to be caught and the good guys to win- but is that realistic, or purely a false hope? I would argue that the cover needs to be adjusted to highlight that ominous focus, but that is the only critique I have.

I highly recommend this book and am excited to read the sequel that takes place four years later, The Scientist's Daughter. 

Title: The Patient from Silvertree
Author: Marian Dribus
Publisher: Marian Dribus
Pages: 275
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Kindled Embers (The Dryad's Cede Book 1) by K.C. Simos

Kindled Embers is a middle grade fantasy story that was sent to me by the author. When 12-year-old Eliza's foster father Jonas, a war hero, is falsely accused of stealing the Royal Pearl, she helps Jonas escape. Eliza decides the best way to clear his name is solve the theft themselves by following the riddles left behind.

Kindled Embers is a cute, fun story, but it also brought up a significant amount of moral issues and lessons. One of which surrounded what makes us worthy of being loved or receiving kindness. Differences in social class were very clear as a lesson of being kind and valuing everyone regardless of social standing was present. How adults behave does effect children; they are not invisible and are effected by the social environment. 

As far as the characters go, Eliza's personality and intelligence does fit with her age of 12, and she is relatable to how I was at that age. Even at 12 years old Eliza could see wrongdoing and injustice in her world. Eliza reminds me of myself at that age, always curious, enthusiastic, and determined. The plot was not predictable, and I was surprised and satisfied at the end. Personally, I don't believe a second book is needed, but I look forward to reading it. 

I highly recommend this book!

Title: Kindled Embers (The Dryad's Cede Book 1)
Author: K.C. Simos
Publisher: K.C. Simos
Pages: 132
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Signs in the Dark by Susan Miura

Signs in the Dark is a YA mystery thriller novel that was sent to me by the publisher. 17-year-old Haylie Summers is kidnapped one night after getting a text that (supposedly) came from a classmate she liked, Nathan. Now she is tied up, gagged, and blindfolded for ransom. While Haylie tries to stay alive and piece together why she ended up there, Nathan tries to clear his name and fight to get Haylie back by any means necessary. Oh, by the way: Haylie is deaf.

Nathan is selfless and caring. He risked his life to find Haylie. Some might call him rebellious; I call him heroic. I have no doubt that he would make a great firefighter. Haylie is bright and a wonderful girl despite her being deaf. She leads mostly a normal life, and Signs in the Dark does tackle some audism and other stereotypes. I liked the diversity of characters' personalities. Mr. Kingsman, the hilarious and nutty neighbor, is my favorite supporting character. Particularly with Mr. Kingsman, I enjoyed the emphasis on how people are not always how they seem- or speak, for that matter. Haylie's involvement in the local Wildlife Rescue Center was a nice touch, especially with the signing gorillas.

The plot made sense, which is sometimes a concern with mystery novels. I enjoy watching crime shows like Chicago PD and NCIS, and as far as kidnappings go Signs in the Dark portrayed the crime and the kidnappers well. However, I will say that at times it felt like information-overload, and the reader can easily interpret and come to many of the drawn-out conclusions and explanations. Never underestimate the intelligence of the reader!

Title: Signs in the Dark
Author: Susan Miura
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing
Pages: 203
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Sword of the Spirit (Spirits Book 3) by Rob Keeley

The Sword of the Spirit is the third book in the middle grade Spirits series sent to me by the author. When Ellie and her mom are relocated to Holiley Castle for the digging of the mythical St Merrell Sword, Ellie literally runs into a knight- Sir Francis from the medieval times, transported into the future. When the sword is recovered, dark secrets from the past and an evil is unleashed, requiring the help of Sir Francis and others in his time to defeat the demon.

One thing I enjoyed was how funny Sir Francis was with his reactions to modern day items like forks and carrots! Many of these funny instances reminded me of the 2001 movie Kate & Leopold. It is also interesting to notice his character development of honesty. The Sword of the Spirit proves that those who make bad choices are not bad people, and that there is the possibility for redemption no matter how great your crime. The biblical references and interpretations of vague myths were intriguing.

Here, Ellie becomes further invested in the spirit world and helping ghosts and spirits from the past, despite a direct order not to interfere. In The Sword of the Spirit it becomes clear that the kind-hearted decision to help someone can cause significant damage to both worlds. When torn between saving the world and saving her friend, both have lasting consequences that Ellie and her family will have to live with. In this book readers also see Ellie become even braver and willing to take bigger risks. There the suspense was strong and I loved the climatic fight at the end!

I highly recommend this book! I am excited to read the fourth book in this series, High Spirits!

See my reviews of the first and second books in this series!

Title: The Sword of the Spirit (Spirits Book 3)
Author: Rob Keeley
Publisher: Troubador Publishing Ltd
Pages: 128
Series: Yes, Book 3 of 5
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Dwarf Story by W.W. Marplot

Dwarf Story is a middle grade fantasy book involving Welsh mythology that was sent to me by the publisher. Eastward Manor, the fairies' world of all mythical and legendary creatures, is no longer pure, but made dark and war-torn by Gwyllion, the Old Woman of the Mountains. So they gather to America, emerging to befriend the last children in the legendary ancestry line to help them defeat Gwyllion and ensure the restoration of a peaceful home for all worlds. These children include Arty, Mary, Cry, Emma, and Ted.

The writing style was unique in the sense that it writes rambling but also controlled at the same time. The reader is thrown instantly into these children's heads with their (often strange) thoughts, dozens of rhetorical questions, and one or two word sentences. When it transitions to another chapter with a new narrator, they often speak very matter-of-fact and interrupt each other, like "I am Ted. You know what’s great about me? I can get involved in any story whenever I want" or "I’d rather have Emma handle this chapter, but I couldn’t find her." This structure initially put me off a bit, but eventually this narration grew on me to be very entertaining.

This was a very funny book, and I enjoyed the author's use of creative puns like "a pain in the axe". I was extremely curious to find out how these fantasy creatures emerged into the "real world" and why this group of teens were chosen. It did take much longer than I thought to find those answers, and the book could have been shorter. But alas, I was hooked to the end. The huge battle at the end was mind-blowing and exciting. The climax was worth the wait.

I recommend this book!

Title: Dwarf Story
Author: W.W. Marplot
Publisher: Waxing Gibbous Books
Pages: 388
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Esme's Wish (Esme Series Book 1) by Elizabeth Foster

Esme's Wish is a middle grade fantasy book that was sent to me by the author. 15-year-old Esme refuses to move on from her mother's death and accept her new stepmother, with a deep suspicion that something terrible happened to her. Esme, harboring her magical gift to look into the past, travels to the world of Esperance to find her mother. Little does she know that her gift may be the key to saving Esperance and finding the pearl that keeps their world at peace.

I enjoyed the deep thematic connections to John Steinbeck's The Pearl. Greed is one of the foundations that draw people to evil actions, and love and friendship is a major foundation and power for light and virtuous actions. The world-building was skilled and full of creative imagery that was wonderful and easy to picture. It is obvious that Foster spent a long time being thorough with all the details of the setting. The magical elements of the town were wonderful. Esme's Wish is certainly a fun, relaxing read! The hint of Greek mythology was interesting to say the least, and I liked the involvement of dragons!

Esme is a sweet, lovely protagonist who is determined to find her mother and will not let anything get in her way. As a character, what makes her unique is her devotion and love to her mother, no matter the danger. Esme's emotions are powerful, however she always manages to think clearly despite them. I will say that I wished the description of going through the portals to and from Esperance were more vivid, and with higher intensity of emotion. In addition, I wish the climax with the pearl's power at the end was more powerful.

I recommend you read this book!

I look forward to reading the second book in this series, Esme's Gift.

Title: Esme's Wish (Esme Series Book 1)
Author: Elizabeth Foster
Publisher: Odyssey Books
Pages: 252
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 4 StarsGoodreads

The Boaters' Club by Deanne Baker

The Boaters' Club is a middle grade mythology book that was sent to me by the author. One day, Russian teen Matt and his friends run into Rusalka, a water zombie. Initially they hope it was just a hallucination- but when a house start catches fire and friends of theirs start losing their lives, it becomes clear that Rusalka and the monstrous mythical lizards must be stopped. Not by the police- but by Matt and his friends, Amy, Joe, and Tyler.

I enjoyed the foreshadowing, and while I could predict most of the events, it was awesome when something unexpected happened. I enjoyed learning about the Ruslka and other Russian mythology and culture, which made The Boaters' Club unique and fascinating to read. I also loved the frightening imagery of the creatures! The story was certainly terrifying at times and was very fun!

I love how each main character had extremely distinct personalities. Amy is my favorite character in the story, mostly because of Amy's involvement in commanding a scene and being a leader. She is an inspirational character and I enjoyed following her brilliant personality and her humorous, proactive approaches to troubling situations. Baba, the supernatural woman, was creepy and mystifying. I loved the wide range of emotions and character types in the story. For Matt, I was disappointed with the how his Synesthesia did not hold immense significance to the plot, and while it provided him with some internal conflict, he seemed much duller than all the other characters. However, him being the narrator with a calmer, constant temperament held the story together and allowed for more extraordinary scenes.

I recommend you read this book!

Title: The Boaters' Club
Author: Deanne Baker
Publisher: Sunbury Press
Pages: 205
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars

Goodreads

Death by Midnight (The Secret Life of Anna Goode Book 1) by Nicole Nadeau

Death by Midnight is a YA realistic fiction mystery book that I received from the author. Anna Goode is a teenage genius and secretly uses her intelligence to build gadgets and other miscleansious inventions. When Russian terrorists kidnap her parents, they make a demand- Anna and her best friend Jake must build a bioweapon and outsmart the CIA- or else her parents die.

Jake is the best friend one could ask for. He's one of the most loyal characters I have ever read, and I love his strive to save Anna no matter the mortal danger to himself. Anna is truly remarkable, not just for her genius IQ and invention skills, but for her moral drive to save her parents and her vastly creative critical thinking skills. Her courage is extraordinary and I admire her ability to stay calm and logical in extreme situations. Everybody's moral compass is a little off, and I enjoyed the internal conflict on Anna's part of doing the right thing or getting her family back. In the coming books, I hope a romance between Anna and Jake can be explored.

Death by Midnight is quite a Goode, (see what I did there) fun read! This book is also very relevant today with the Covid-19 outbreak. It is extremely action-packed with plenty of gripping fight scenes. The fights are very detailed and are thrilling in its fast pace. My only complaint is that some of them seem a little unbelievable. I love the suspense and anxiety of the time limit and guessing the mysterious parts along the way. The writing is clean and descriptive. Death by Midnight is a story I will totally read again!

I recommend that you read this book!

Title: Death by Midnight (The Secret Life of Anna Goode Book 1)
Author: Nicole Nadeau
Publisher: Nicole Nadeau
Pages: 303
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

The Spirit of London (Spirits Book 2) by Rob Keeley

The Spirit of London is the second middle grade fantasy book in the Spirits series. This book was sent to me by the author. After Ellie's parents get divorced, Ellie, Charlie, and their mother move back to London. Ellie figures everything will return to normal until she starts having visions and receiving panicked pleas for help from the ghosts of Mary and her father Henry, who are in danger after the evil murderer James Meadowes escapes his imprisonment. As Ellie tries to put her family back together and help Mary, she finds her worlds colliding- and realizes that nobody is who they seem.

I loved the family conflict. Ellie was caught in the middle of her parent's messy divorce and living in a tiny cramped flat with her mother acting bizarrely neglectful. For me personally, her conflict in the real world with her seemingly insane mother and scheming father was more interesting than the spirit world conflicts. Her emotion and fear was raw and I could connect to her easily.

I enjoyed the vast change in setting from the rural castle to the busy city. Similar to the previous book, I also saw the clear plot escalation with a terrifying climax. I loved how the intensity and mystique increased so drastically throughout the book. The mind-controlling aspect was superb and it was really cool when reality blurred with the spirit world. For a children's book, it was skillfully written with great imagery. This is a great mystery children's book that is easy to get into and hard to stop!  On a side note, I also love the cover!

I highly recommend you read this book! I cannot wait to read the third book in this series, The Sword of the Spirit! See my review of the previous book, Childish Spirits!

Title: The Spirit of London
Author: Rob Keeley
Publisher: Troubador Publishing
Pages: 152
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 5
Rating: 5 Stars
Goodreads

Hyperion's Shield (The Scales of Torma Book 1) by Nathan Schivley

Hyperion's Shield is the first YA fantasy book in the Scales of Torma series. This book was sent to me by the author. After the Eighth Great War between the Reysa and the Gartune, the Gartune defeated the Reytanas and built a huge shield that prevented their sun-based powers. The citizens live fearful lives under their rule. Inside the city, twins Loras and Regan dream of being Reytanas and taking back their home. When their dream shockingly comes true, the twins, along with their best friend Tinko, are forced to flee for their lives. After discovering a refugee camp for fellow Reytanas, the twins participate in a massive battle to take back their city.

I loved Hyperion's Shield! While the book is quite long, it is worth the time! This strong, exciting story was very well written and captivating! The world-building was special and vivid. The literal battle between darkness and light was intriguing and ironic. It is a completely original and extremely creative plotline. I enjoy it when I get to read content that I've never thought of before.

I enjoyed Xander's vast internal conflict- if he decides to be with the girl he loves, he turns his back on his family. It was fun for me to predict what side he would be on. Tinko was enjoyable and confident. While he has no powers of his own, he still managed to stand out with his creativity, humor, and resourcefulness. I loved the twins' struggle to adjust to their powers and solve the mystery of their destiny. I was shocked by the identities and roles of Loras and Regan in the amazing final battle, and I loved the sweet cliffhanger at the end!

I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the next book in this series!

Title: Hyperion's Shield
Author: Nathan Schivly
Publisher: Blue Avenue Media
Pages: 585
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads

Music Boxes by Tonja Drecker

Music Boxes is a middle grade fantasy book that was sent to me by the publisher. It comes out on March 5, 2019. Lindsey is an amazing ballerina, and has just moved to New York. Soon after arriving, she meets the mysterious Madame Destinée who offers dance classes for free in exchange for participation in a performance every night in a magical studio. However, soon Lindsey realizes that Madame has evil intentions of turning the students into music boxes and stealing their talent.

While somewhat predictable, the plotline was also fascinating and I was perfectly entertained. This is a great leisure read. I love the bond Lindsey has with her sister, and I love how she was included in the climax. This book has the perfect balance of creepiness and fun. I loved the transition between lovely to fear. Lindsey's unease flew off the pages. Extremely well written, the imagery was highly present and I could full envision their magical world.

The tale was so sweet, creative, and relatable to young girls. I love how Music Boxes teaches how there's no shortcut to success. You have to work for your dreams to come true. The mystery aspect was very cool, and I enjoyed guessing how the story was going to turn out and how she'd beat the witch. The climatic scene at the end was amazing, and my pulse was racing along with Lindsey's fear and determination. The ending was bittersweet, and wrapped up the story nicely. The cover is also very creative and highly representative.

I highly recommend this book, and I cannot wait to read it again!

Title: Music Boxes
Author: Tonja Drecker

Publisher: Dancing Lemur Press
Pages: 158

Series: No
Rating: 5 Stars

Goodreads