Sunday, November 29, 2015

Tonight & Monday Last Chance to Get Book Deals!

In case you missed the epic Black Friday Christian Indie Book Sale going on ... you still have tonight and Monday to grab some great deals!

Go to this special site where we have sales on paperbacks: 
http://www.indiechristianbooks.com/

My own novella, A Dream Not Imagined, has a special sale - $6.99 and FREE shipping.
On Amazon.com, it's $5.99 + $3.99 shipping; so you're saving about $3.00 if you order it from this site tonight or tomorrow (Monday)!


Or you can get the kindle version FREE on Amazon: 

Be sure to leave a review on Amazon.com and Goodreads.com if you read and enjoy it! ^_^

Some other epic deals include Jaye L. Knight's ILYON CHRONICLES package deal for $27.00 and FREE shipping.


Molly Evangeline's MAKILIEN TRILOGY package deal for $30.00 and FREE shipping. (I bought this one and am SO EXCITED to get it in the mail!)


Tricia Mingerink's Dare [THE BLADES OF ACKTAR #1] for $11.00 and FREE shipping.


And many more! There's Fantasy, Historical, Children, Romance, Contemporary, and special Package Deals.

Don't miss!! :D

Friday, November 27, 2015

Black Friday Indie Book Sale Begins!!!

Smiley

Like most other bookworms, great books make their way onto my "things I'm thankful for" list every year. It's hard to choose favorites, but I went ahead and picked five books I read in 2015 and am thankful for.
  1. The King's Scrolls, by Jaye L. Knight: Amazing fantasy! Profound, exciting, and beautiful! The characters are forever in my heart!
  2. Deny, by Tricia Mingerink: Another superb Christian fantasy! I love how these books both challenge and captivate you! 
  3. Through Waters Deep, by Sarah Sundin: Rich, romantic historicals are some of my favorite reads! And this one even has a mystery entwined throughout!
  4. Draven's Light, by Anne Elisabeth Stengl: Absolutely thrilling! Fantasy novellas that capture your interest from beginning to end are great!
  5. Mardan's Mark, by Kathrese McKee: I just adore fantasy and am so grateful for all the wonderful Christian authors who write it! Incredible adventure, grand storyline, and amazing characters!
(I could go on and on about 2015 reads that I'm so happy I got to read this year ... but I'm only supposed to pick five books. Nadine Brandes, Serena Chase, Lori Benton, Jill Williamson, Julia Erickson, Angie Brashear, Melanie Dickerson, Shonna Slayton, Gillian Bronte Adams, Marissa Meyer, Christine Johnson, Kendra Ardnek, Mary Weber, Ashley Townsend ... etc., etc. ... EEP! You are all so amazing! *smiles*)

*Ahem* Now, on to the sale!!! Check it out, my friends! Buy some books!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to another great year of reading! Speaking of more reading, here's one more thing to be grateful for. Books on sale! In honor of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, a group of independent Christian authors banded together to offer over seventy discounted books on Nov 27-30. There's literally something for everyone. Every single book listed on Indie Christian Books is on sale in one or more ways. Find discounted paperbacks, dozens of books offered with free shipping, $0.99 ebooks, package deals and more. Even if you have a budget of $0, new reading material awaits you. Don't know what to pick? The fearless Indie Christian Books team created a quiz that will generate a book list perfect for you! Check it out!

Book Quiz


What awesome reads of 2015 are you grateful for? What books are you looking forward to reading in 2016?
A note on the Ebooks Only page. All books are listed as "Sold Out." This only refers to paperback copies of these titles. Please click onto the product pages to find descriptions and links to discounted or free ebooks.
Acknowledgements: Thanks to Leah E. Good for her work organizing this sale, Gloria Repp for completing the time consuming job of uploading book info to the sale website, and Hannah Mills for her fantastic design work on the website graphics. Hannah can be contacted at hmills(at)omorecollege(dot)edu for more information about her design services.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Book Review: Deny by Tricia Mingerink


Purchase HERE

Title: Deny

Author: Tricia Mingerink

Series: The Blades of Acktar #2

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: New Adult

Release Date: November 30th, 2015

~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

**Beware of spoilers, particularly if you haven't read Book One, Dare, yet.**

Deny is the fantastic ... absolutely heart-wrenching ... sequel to Dare. This is no fluffy tale, my friends; but even so, you don't want to miss THE BLADES OF ACKTAR series! It's unique fantasy telling a powerful story.

Leith Torren, now promoted to First Blade, is within the enemy line, caught up in a web of lies. Renna Faythe is hiding again; struggling with her lack of faith. Though they've already been through untold horrors because of King Respen, much more is ahead of them. Adventure. Trial. Romance. Terror. Who will withstand the tests? Who will come out alive? And is there any room for young love in this perilous time?

Once again, Tricia Mingerink swept me away to the fantasy land of Acktar. Danger lurks, hiding in the shadows as the Blades - King Respen's trained assassins. Secrets are uncovered ... trust broken. Faith is tested severely. And in the midst of the dark chaos, romantic love blossoms. Eep! <3 It was beautiful, terrifying, amazing, and heart-rending all in one!

Leith Torren is like ... the best assassin-turned-hero ever! ^_^ And though he found faith and redemption in Dare, he still hesitates to embrace life. He's kind of torn. In this book, I think we see even more of the dangerous side of him. It's exhilarating, but also very grim. But he's just gallant, and wonderful, and quite ninja-like! *grins* Deny has me hoping and cheering for Leith more so than ever. But ... Poor guy. *hugs him* *tears* (So much to process as I think back over everything that happened in order to write a review!)

Renna is definitely a favorite character. Her struggle is so real to me. I can relate. And I've thought about some of the situations she's forced to go through ... and wondered how I would react. With strength from Him? Or paralyzing fear? I LOVE her journey. <3 It's hard. Harsh in the deepest sense of the word. Agonizing even. (I told you this wasn't a light read! It's very deep, real, and thought-provoking). But in the end, it's so beautiful. Even as it hurts, there's this crazy, beautiful, unfathomable hope. Reach out and catch hold, Renna! And never let go! But yeah. Renna is a great character. So real and relatable. I must admit, I'm slightly concerned about the direction this series is going ... (Eeek! Tricia, how can you do this to us?? *wink*) But I'm sooo excited too! Very much so rooting for dear Renna!

And Brandi!! She brings humor, life, and laughter! A splash of color amidst the dark of fear and danger. I love how she lightens the story up here and there, and ... I just love her. *smiles* Was getting a bit worried at one point ... But Brandi is Brandi. She has a beautiful faith, and her Lord holds her securely! ^_^ Can't wait to see more of her journey too! *Thinks about the end of Deny* ... Oh, Brandi!!

And the other characters, fabulous as well! I'm particularly curious about Martyn. Hmm ... And Jamie!!! I love him! *grins* He's hardened, yet still innocent-of-sorts, and awkward, but sweet. <3

The romance that was hinted at in Dare advanced into something quite obvious and sweet in this book. All the Leith and Renna moments!!! <3 <3 *fangirl squeal* It was all so adorable and swoon-y. And tender and a bit uncertain. Renna's reactions and thoughts concerning her feelings were realistic. Really enjoyed that! It's not instant-love or perfect; but it's perfectly lovely! ^_^ I can't wait to see more. Beautiful love story unfolding! But lot's trying to get in the way of it! Eek!
     On the romance note, it was definitely a step up from Dare as for content. But clean, sweet, and suitable for the Young Adult or New Adult audience.

So remember the bit about Deny not being a light read? There's quite a bit of violence and gory detail in this book. Some scenes are pretty bloody ... even if they're not as dire as they seem. So big cautions to anyone squeamish. There are some pretty brutal executions touched on too.

It was intense. And heavy. At one point, my heart felt like a rock in my chest; pain gathered, tears brimming. But, it brings across such a deep, meaningful message to us Christians. Faith, even in fiery persecution. Perseverance, even unto death. What a journey. Whew. For a moment, I was wondering if everything was going to crash to an end ... but the close of Deny promises more exciting and profound adventures to come in Book 3! I can hardly wait!

So yes. Epic and thought-provoking. A series for fantasy lovers. And even if you don't like fantasy, you should still give THE BLADES OF ACKTAR a try. Non-magical. Great fantasy world. Poignant Christian themes. Incredible characters. Sweet romance. Action, adventure, danger ... And tears. And hope. And holding your breath; simultaneously terrified and thrilled for the next book! *grins*

I received an ARC of Deny from the author in exchange for my honest review.



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Monday, November 23, 2015

Book Review: Mardan's Mark by Kathrese McKee


Purchase HERE

Title: Mardan's Mark

Author: Kathrese McKee

Series: Mardan's Mark #1

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

Oh my heart! *happy sigh* I have officially found another fantasy series to love! Mardan's Mark by Kathrese McKee quite exceeded my expectations and held me captivated for the length of an epic journey. ...And, I can't wait to read more! It was amazing, humorous, sweet, and filled with action and adventure.

The story centers around a princess named Srilani, the eldest daughter of King Terson and Lady Kaelan. She is a leader by nature, bold and determined to be heard. But her father continually brushes her opinions and ideas aside; favoring, instead, his son, Jamson, heir to the throne.
   Aldan is a slave aboard a pirate ship. He, along with his "brothers", Samazor and Linus, have been slaves for almost as long as they can remember - subject to the whims of Captain Rozar.
    But everything they know is about to change as trouble brews between the Twin Kingdoms and Norland. Secrets await realization. Wicked men scheme abductions. And in the midst, a princess and a pirate must learn to work together to keep their families safe.

From almost the very first line, I was enthralled. Mardan's Mark is a very well-written, intriguing, and altogether beautiful fantasy! It didn't leave me bored for a moment; but rather had me excitedly lost in its pages or waiting to return to them! *smiles* Truly, it was fresh and superb. I believe this book is Kathrese McKee's debut novel, and I am quite impressed! Very well done!

The characters were wonderful. I enjoyed being with each POV character ... (which is not always common for me); they were just fantastic! None of them bored me.

Srilani was a little arrogant and spoiled perhaps, for a good bit. I must say, I was a little disgusted, soon after meeting her, when she was disrespectful toward her father and at the same time expected him to treat her and her opinions with utmost respect! Her father may have been in the wrong for treating her so carelessly, but she still should have honored him. So yes. Srilani has a bit of an attitude toward men. But she does learn, and grow through the course of the book; and I quickly came to like her! She has her faults, but she has strengths too ... and learns to admit she's wrong and so on. It was nice to have a so-called "kick-butt" heroine who learns that is not what being a strong woman is all about. Anyway. Can't wait to reunite with Srilani in the next book and see how things go for her!

I liked Aldan very much! He was a calm, strong, guiding force. And his brothers, Sam and Linus, were great too, in different ways! Sam, though annoying at times, made me laugh, and sigh when his tender side showed through. Linus was just mysterious ... and bit shy and quiet, but still deadly. And in another way, sweet. And I simply loved their brotherly relationship! It was so neat, and interesting; and they're all such distinct characters that I very much enjoyed hanging out around the three of them! ^_^

Srilani's sisters, Rene and Maelan, and brother Jamson, were also lovely characters. We perhaps didn't get to know the twins quite as well; but Rene had POV a few times, I believe.
And just ... all the characters were great! I can't wait to read more! Can't wait to go back to this fabulous fantasy world! ^_^

Speaking of the world, it was incredibly done! Completely fascinating. There are pirates working for a bad king. Twin kingdoms growing restless against each other. Fierce alligators roaming the swamp - inspiring an alligator god that some of the people ignorantly believe in. There are guardians and temple priests. Hurricanes. Angels. And a line of people with "Mardan's mark" on their skin.
Some of Mardan's Mark's world and scenarios (especially the Prologue) made me think of the Old Testament times from the Bible. Which is really interesting and neat, I think.

Srilani and her family trust in El (who represents God). They pray to Him, heal in His name, and witness about Him to Aldan and his brothers, who grew up aboard the pirate ship only knowing about Azor, the alligator god. A messenger comes from El to one of the characters (a awesome scene!), and also El gives visions to different people. All in all, I really like the allegory of Mardan's Mark, and hope to see more! ^_^

There was a bit of violence and death here and there. Nothing too bad that I can remember. It's definitely a few notches down from what I've been reading lately! So yeah. Pretty safe.

The romance(s) was sooo sweet! So many cute moments. Tender moments. Eep! <3 It was all so lovely. And it progressed slow enough that it didn't feel like instant love like a lot of the YA books these days. I felt it came about quite nicely! It was all sweet and clean, except, near the end there were two slightly heated romantic moments involving a kiss or two. It's probably considered suitable for the sixteen-and-up range audience. I might suggest eighteen and up ... Well, because Srilani is like seventeen or eighteen, so naturally her situation is probably more suited for readers her age. *smiles* But, I guess it depends what you usually read. Rene is sixteen, I believe (and quite mature), and she has a bit of a romance going on too.
Anyway, so fun! I'm so excited to read more! I want these two adorable couples to have happy endings! *fangirl grin*

So what else to say? Mardan's Mark is awesome! I'm going to start the companion novella tonight, and am dying to read Book 2 already! Haha. Definitely going on my favorites shelf, and I highly recommend! To all fantasy lovers: you must pick up this book! It's thrilling. Mysterious. Adventurous. Sweet. Romantic. Breath-taking. Simply grand. Even if you don't like fantasy, still you should give it a try! It's non-magical, has likenesses to Old Testament days, and just all-around superb writing and characters. As a avid fan of Christian fantasy, I've found a jewel.

I received a copy of
 Mardan's Mark from the author in exchange for my honest review.




About the Author

Texas author, Kathrese McKee, writes epic adventures for young adults and anyone else who enjoys pirates and princesses combined with life’s difficult questions. She is committed to exciting stories, appropriate content, and quality craftsmanship.

Mardan’s Mark is the award-winning first book in the Mardan’s Mark series.

Once upon a time, Kathrese worked as a systems engineer for EDS and various oil and gas companies. Then, she taught Reading and ESL at the middle school level. These days, she edits fiction, home schools her children, and turns a blind eye to the feral dust bunnies lurking beneath her desk.

Social Media Links



Twitter: @KathreseMcKee

Google+: Kathrese McKee

Goodreads: Kathrese McKee

Pinterest: KathreseMcKee



Healer's Curse [MARDAN'S MARK novella] by Kathrese McKee

Friday, November 20, 2015

Book Review: Orphan's Song by Gillian Bronte Adams


Purchase HERE

Title: Orphan's Song

Author: Gillian Bronte Adams

Series: The Songkeeper Chronicles #1

Genre: Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

This book fulfilled my hopeful expectations, I believe. Behind the absolutely gorgeous cover, we find an enchanting tale, akin to THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA series, yet it's own.

Birdie is an orphan, just trying to protect herself from Madame's harsh words and the two terrors, the woman's spoiled sons. Strangely, she hears a Song that no one else seems to hear. Her peddler friend, Amos McElhenny warns her away from singing it ... but Birdie is determined to figure out what people are hiding from her.
     This throws her into a perilous journey, filled with Khelari soldiers, old secrets, and the Underground. For better or worse ... Birdie's life will never be the same.

Alright. ^_^ I was so excited to read by Gillian Bronte Adams; because her books just look so beautiful and intriguing and filled with amazing fantasy. And they are! Orphan's Song caught me from the Prologue. The writing style. The promise of fantastic things to come. The wonderful fantasy creatures and ideas! I LOVED the whole allegory with the Song and the Songkeeper and all that lovely stuff. It was beautiful and awesome, and really touched my heart!

Speaking of the Song ... yes, Orphan's Song is a Christian fantasy from what I can see. The things weren't expounded a whole lot, I still saw a clear allegory and hoping for more to come in the next book! <3 Just beautiful. And poignant.

The characters were great! From Birdie to Amos, and Ky to Gundhrold ... I loved them! I was quite intrigued by the whole group of street orphans and their lives together. Ky was cool! *grins* Birdie was sweet and brave; I really enjoyed her character and discovering her story with her. Can't wait to read more of her! *smiles*

Okay. Evil Khelari soldiers. Pirates. Griffons. Songkeepers. Protectors. Interesting cats. It was all so incredible! I was surprised and delighted again and again. Simply intriguing and grand. Once again ... it really captivated me the way THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA does, in a lot of ways. I liked Gillian Bronte Adams's writing style. It was lyrical and humorous and just great. Kept you in the story and reading! And just, griffons!!!!! EEP! <3 <3

There was a bit more violence and gruesomeness than I expected. I might still let my thirteen-year-old sister read it ... but not sure. My family's kinda sensitive when it comes to that sort of stuff. Caution to younger children anyway.

This book is for all fantasy lovers! Mystery. Allegories. Mythical creatures. Danger. Battles. Good versus evil. All kinds of wonderful things. Fans of C.S. Lewis and Anne Elisabeth Stengl will really enjoy Orphan's Song I believe.

All in all, Orphan's Song is an epic fantasy. I'm so excited to read Book 2 in
THE SONGKEEPER CHRONICLES! Not to mention, Gillian Bronte Adam's standalone, Out of Darkness Rising!

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Cover Reveal: NEW How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes

It's the one-year anniversary for How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes! And today we'll be revealing it's NEW cover, along with giveaways and all that fun! *smiles*

                                                 A Note from the Author

A year ago today (November 18th), my little star story, How a Star Falls, landed on Amazon. I’m thrilled to celebrate the anniversary of its release with you by introducing a brand-new cover (where the hero, Derrick, makes an appearance) and sharing a fun giveaway with prizes from some of my favorite Etsy shops!

If you journeyed with Derrick and Brielle when their story first released, thank you for allowing them into your heart. And if this will be your first time meeting them, I hope you’ll be encouraged by their story and reminded of the hope of Psalm 138:8: “The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me.”

Blessings through life’s seasons!
~Amber


About the Book

Sweet New Adult Contemporary Romance Novella

How does a star fall?
Quickly. Completely. Unexpectedly.


Derrick Knolane escapes to Trinidad Head most evenings, avoiding his apartment and planning for the day he'll break free of Humboldt County. Working in a music store might be fine for a while, but it's far from the goal he had in mind when he got his college degree. Not to mention the fact that his roommate is a jerk and his family won't stop trying to run his life.

Then Brielle falls into his world.

She claims to be a star. Not from Hollywood, but from heaven. He thinks she's crazy. Certainly delusional. Yet, he can't just leave her alone on the cliffs. So he takes her home.

And his whole world falls apart.

A heartfelt and fanciful contemporary romance novella, How a Star Falls explores the uncertain season of new adulthood and shows that sometimes the worst inconveniences make for the best miracles of all.

This novella is available in the following formats:
Paperback ($6.99)
Kindle ebook ($.99)



Author Bio

Amber Stokes works as a marketing content writer for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home.

You can learn more about Amber’s books, sign up for her author newsletter, join the Amber’s Gems street team, and more at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.


Cover Designer Bio

Lena Goldfinch writes inspirational historical romance and books for teens. She’s always been a sucker for a good old-fashioned romance, whether it’s a novel or short story, young adult or adult, fantasy or realistic, contemporary or historical. Lena has been a finalist in several national writing contests, including the RWA Golden Heart and ACFW Genesis contests. She enjoys life in a quiet small town with her husband, two kids, and two very spoiled black Labs.

Visit Lena at www.LenaGoldfinch.com.


Giveaway!

Fill out the form below to enter to win one of three prizes from some of the author’s favorite Etsy shops! The prizes are…



Why these prizes? The earrings include stars, which fit this occasion for obvious reasons. ;) The compass is a reference to a song mentioned in the story: “If My Heart Was a House” by Owl City (you can listen HERE). And the cards are a little teaser for my next contemporary romance, Where Trains Collide. (Let’s just say the hero’s nickname is Paul Bunyan. Can you guess the heroine’s nickname?)

Note: Giveaway is open to US residents only due to shipping costs.
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Monday, November 9, 2015

Book Sale on Black Friday!

Hey guys! Christian indie authors are coming together this year to offer great Black Friday sales!! Twenty-three authors and over seventy books are going to be a part of this!! ^_^ So please take a moment to fill out the survey below to give us some ideas! *smiles*

P.S. Bloggers, there's a spot on the form where you can sign up to share about the upcoming sales ... and get some free books in the process!

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Book Review: Chasing Shadows by Ashley Townsend


Purchase HERE

Title: Chasing Shadows

Author: Ashley Townsend

Series: Rising Shadows #2

Genre: Time-travel/Fantasy

Audience: Young Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Would you choose to entwine your fate with a hero of the past, even if it meant altering the future?

The murder of an ancient king spurs Sarah Matthews to travel back in time, putting her life in jeopardy as she races against the clock to solve a thousand-year-old mystery and pick up the pieces of her star-crossed romance. Her return to Serimone reveals that the kingdom is in upheaval and that the elusive Cadius has sinister plans for the throne. Unable to right the empire alone, Sarah reunites with Will, the love she left behind and the man beneath the Shadow’s hood. As they work together amidst lavish balls and explore the secret depths of the castle, they discover that the conspiracy runs deeper than they ever imagined. And when a counterfeit Shadow claims the life of someone close to her after a personal threat from Cadius himself, Sarah discovers that the price of questioning the new regime is a life.

Guilt-ridden and alone, she discovers comfort in her newfound friendship with Damien, a charming Spaniard who joins Sarah in her personal crusade for justice. But as she draws closer to his dark past and to the faceless killer in their midst, she realizes that the severed threads of time and the mystery surrounding Serimone Castle are unraveling rapidly, weaving new tapestries of devastation.

In this thrilling and deceptive sequel to "Rising Shadows," Sarah is forced into harm’s way countless times as she races to solve the puzzle before it is too late and Serimone becomes nothing more than a faded memory of the past ... And before Sarah becomes a permanent fixture in history.


~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

A lovely sequel to Rising Shadows by Ashley Townsend, Chasing Shadows deepened the storyline; drew me nearer to the characters; grew a certain love story …

Sarah Matthews is trying to forget her time-travel experience. College is about to start, and she’s in a frenzy to prepare for moving out – her room a mess. But in a whole different realm, a royal has died, foul play is suspected, and a young man longs for Sarah to return. She wistfully keeps a special necklace … but would have never expected the person who arrives on her doorstep one day.
In Serimone, new adventures and escapades abound. New romantic interests, danger, suspense, sweetness, and working through tangled relationships.
What Sarah thought was in the past is definitely not over yet.

Alright, so the beginning of Chasing Shadows could feel a little long. But not exactly dragging; because by the end of this book, I just feel it’s a beautiful, epic, exciting story that you can’t wait to dive back into! Something about long books where you’re simply getting to know the characters a bit before you really get into the action … they’re great! I really enjoyed going back to Chasing Shadows pages again and again; and am so happy that it graces my bookshelf! I also felt that came about more smoothly, clearer, and satisfactory than the first book; so good job, Ashley Townsend! Excited to see where Defying Shadows brings us!

Sarah … I got way more frustrated with her in this book! That horrid love triangle! I just do not understand girls who lead on two guys for like, forever. (Think Katniss and Gale and Peeta. Grrr.) So there were a few times when I wanted to give Sarah a good talking to. Ha. Like, stop fooling around and acting so oblivious and silly, and fight for the man who you truly love! But I will say, by the end of the book, I understood a lot more why Sarah acted the way she did. It wasn’t really so much a love triangle after all … Well, you’ll see. In any case, I do see why Sarah did what she did. It’s understandable. So there was a little bit of a warning theme of guarding one’s heart, which I appreciated.

I loved getting to know Will even better, and delving into his character more! *Sigh* There were a few instances when he really needed to step up and take the lead, I think; but overall, he was sweet, heroic, strong, and just … swoon-y. *wink* Haha. But truly, he’s a really valiant young man, who has a tragic past, and is broken on the inside, but too stubborn to let himself be healed. Really rooting for this guy, and hoping for really beautiful things to come in the next book!

Of course, we have Seth and Karen, each who I liked even better in this book! A new dashing young man is introduced, Damien. The charming, wealthy, fun-loving guy who causes all kinds of complications in this story! *grins* Are you intrigued yet? You should be! There were a few other new characters too, who were all fun to meet! Not sure yet what to think of Jade, and the rather shocking revelation of her. Eek! What can this all mean??

As for romance, besides the love triangle deal, I really enjoyed it! ^_^ There were sweet moments, funny moments, heart-rending moments, exciting moments! I liked how Ashley Townsend explored their feelings in the awkward and the good moments. There was uncomfortableness. Caution. Tenderness. I enjoyed a certain young man’s chivalry and how he was gentlemanly with Sarah and concerned about her reputation and whatnot. That all being said, I would recommend at least sixteen and up as for audience for Chasing Shadows. Some compromising situations are indicated, scandal mentioned time and again, awkward moments muddled through. Yeah. The main character is eighteen, so it’s probably actually more suitable for that age and up. But then again, this series probably has a more YA feel. So, whatever. I didn’t feel that there was anything inappropriate or even overly sensual. Overall, very sweet. Though quite real at times.

There was a little more of a violent/gruesome element than the first book. We have murderers on the loose, and quite a few intense and a bit gory scenes. Nothing radical. But it’s definitely a higher level than Rising Shadows.

I sort of felt that Chasing Shadows dipped in and out of having a faith theme. There were some really deep parts, like Sarah explaining her devotion to God to a questioning servant. That was raw and real. And there were other parts, like talking to Will about God still waiting for him to return; prayer; and trusting God. But it was kind of sporadic. It didn’t really bother me too much. There were two instances of swearing, which I was slightly surprised to find. And then there were three or four times where it seemed God’s name was being used carelessly. I was confused about why Sarah would be misusing the name of the God she was so dedicated to. Maybe I read it wrong? Overall, I very much appreciated the Christian aspect of Chasing Shadows. Though it was perhaps a little more irregular than Rising Shadows; it still had some poignant and beautiful faith moments and thoughts. I think the end-ish was pretty strong and steady too, on that matter.

But all in all … time-travel, medieval world, masked balls, terrifying escapades, gallant sweethearts … EEP! It’s just so much fun. I love Serimone and these characters. So yes, filled with romance, action, adventure, and suspense. A plan to uncloak a murderer. A longing to fall in love in the past. It was a thrilling adventure! Despite the slow beginning and some misgivings, I ultimately adored this book and couldn’t help but give it five stars! ^_^ And it seems there’s more fantastic journeys to come! So excited for Defying Shadows!