tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34399095011696136652024-02-20T02:08:25.561-08:00Katy Huth Jones' blog: Life is a Four-Letter WordEncouragement for the journeyKaty Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-9439080770506413952023-09-08T05:16:00.001-07:002023-09-08T05:16:12.852-07:00Review by the Book Dragon: #5 in a wonderful cozy mystery series<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToNGVdoMTpDKgDMefH0o7ZqK5ZpcwtSPUgHyl8SvDmDID_RaQ2So1Lt6Y02ImkQd9c_IqfHTEa2mjhlPbVP3NBl04K_6b5tKluF92rTIWog2Ac7vytACLeyLzc2awdXap2z0BQD-AOMGwHvQscxMzOw8_wGiUG6Z8AktQdprsq_W1TnsRtgxJiA-OrygZ/s2016/IMG_4657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToNGVdoMTpDKgDMefH0o7ZqK5ZpcwtSPUgHyl8SvDmDID_RaQ2So1Lt6Y02ImkQd9c_IqfHTEa2mjhlPbVP3NBl04K_6b5tKluF92rTIWog2Ac7vytACLeyLzc2awdXap2z0BQD-AOMGwHvQscxMzOw8_wGiUG6Z8AktQdprsq_W1TnsRtgxJiA-OrygZ/s320/IMG_4657.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Away-Words-Puzzle-loving-discover-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0CDZK1VSB" target="_blank">Away With Words by Julie B. Cosgrove</a> and gives it a roaring five claws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">My review: <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">What
a great book! After reading all the previous books in this series, I especially
enjoyed following Wanda, Betty Sue, and Evelyn as they traveled to a women’s
retreat in Louisiana, made new friends, and stumbled upon clues leading to yet
another mystery. More clever word play and more scrumptious recipes to try!
Wanda & Co feel like beloved friends now—all of them unforgettable and loveable
and oh, so human. Just like us! Highly recommended.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I know this doesn't tell too much about the story, but I hate giving away spoilers. So here's the blurb from Amazon and a better image of the cover:</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div><p></p><h4 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 4px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span class="a-text-bold a-text-italic" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic !important;">A brook, a shoe, and a bloody sock…</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />After two years of crime-solving, in which she was kidnapped, arrested, and had her kitchen blown to pieces, Wanda Warner agrees to go on a women’s retreat with her two best friends, Betty Sue and Evelyn… to get away for some much needed R&R. Especially when she hears they will play word games, her favorite pastime. Wanda has always had a way with words, as her nephew, the policeman, has told her many times.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />But once again, solving the word puzzle clues to items on a scavenger hunt leads her to discover what could be a crime scene. Then she learns an area teenager is missing. So, why does the retired forensics scientist, who owns the retreat center, seem to downplay everything?<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Can Wanda convince the authorities that the brook-soaked clues could lead to the girl’s whereabouts? And will she still be alive if they find her?</span></h4><div><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmg-UYBlI88mrtqIzwEYNE1h0IXVuYdN1LBAY4gY-RBcc-FOJ6twZ84uO7EntVBZLPxXTsHLoa9L7xejLW2lLTL2RrIa7iOrutifpymA32vaP6qqL0wgU-RPqsaUTe3DjxfFxl5TwWPQuuSlka3oFmxDBwl-9ObLlC22L6RAOuNLsnGC66S7udnh6-zvz2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="327" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmg-UYBlI88mrtqIzwEYNE1h0IXVuYdN1LBAY4gY-RBcc-FOJ6twZ84uO7EntVBZLPxXTsHLoa9L7xejLW2lLTL2RrIa7iOrutifpymA32vaP6qqL0wgU-RPqsaUTe3DjxfFxl5TwWPQuuSlka3oFmxDBwl-9ObLlC22L6RAOuNLsnGC66S7udnh6-zvz2" width="157" /></a></div><br />Here's the link to <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Away-Words-Puzzle-loving-discover-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0CDZK1VSB" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. Check out the entire series! (Though each can stand alone.)</span></div><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-73089339392208739722022-12-31T08:33:00.000-08:002022-12-31T08:33:33.233-08:00The 10 Best Books I read in 2022<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxi7G632oAWPOKp_0Xsqht825zqJ_jaluPNZQOHHVHND93PPRWlh8gqlzm3CO5RaJKX2EFLzCM1kxBG89sdjR3NFfvneZ-5YxdzHKASiyw_XXY3rjzIB9yQSflSpMYckmSFni4iofV8iT1gvfwIjwyJGzntAKvwXFg147-GN3fpelQdsVyuRHq7FF-Q/s1512/IMG_2287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxi7G632oAWPOKp_0Xsqht825zqJ_jaluPNZQOHHVHND93PPRWlh8gqlzm3CO5RaJKX2EFLzCM1kxBG89sdjR3NFfvneZ-5YxdzHKASiyw_XXY3rjzIB9yQSflSpMYckmSFni4iofV8iT1gvfwIjwyJGzntAKvwXFg147-GN3fpelQdsVyuRHq7FF-Q/s320/IMG_2287.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I should have known by the water leak last New Year's Eve that 2022 wasn't shaping up to be an "easy" year. That leak led to a series of unfortunate events which necessitated many expensive repairs to our house, so expensive I had to go back to work. I now have a booth in Benbrook Antique Mall with a business name of "Third Time's the Charm" which has been slightly profitable this first year and more enjoyable than I anticipated. After trying unsuccessfully to sell our house (and moving out most of the stuff in the process to "show" the house) we resigned ourselves to staying in it and moved back in.<p></p><p>Needless to say, all those months of turmoil were not conducive to reading much fiction. Most of what I read, in fact, was for other indie authors--beta reading, proofreading, and in two cases, content editing.</p><p>I despaired of finishing my WIP, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fionas-Gift-Mercys-Children-Book-ebook/dp/B0B2MHD66M" target="_blank">Fiona's Gift</a>, but thankfully it came together and I managed to publish it over the summer, praise God! I have barely begun on the last in Mercy's Children series, and pray my words will return soon.</p><p>Another impediment to much reading has been failing eyesight. In the words of not one but TWO eye doctors, I have the "weirdest" eyes they've ever seen. I had to go back to the opthalmologist in our previous town to get a diagnosis of epiretinal membrane but I've decided not to do the surgery, which has extreme risks, especially since it's my only seeing eye. I'm just learning to cope with the vision I do have (it's like seeing the world through a wrinkled piece of cellophane) and be grateful.</p><p>So, I only read 25 books this year, and a good percentage of those were short ones. Thankfully there were some wonderful reads, and I can recommend these to you:</p><p>#10 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B2HTHBFR" target="_blank">War Between Worlds</a> by Madelyn Braddock</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61hIJCrfZvBgeceWc6Kl0N0t10zGI1Iw2oVm0zl9B7sSayTqDIUkG6tmHWTauI_36_-LgIUTqSksSmOtkoEYb_0vNiKP2tEycf9OXLc5IVSlrcKKlT8-TwJPFO-Rf5X0W6fYUq2CHxPXbxx-q94dB8nRvP3jJ98kl3UBXaNozzbWH0b3hp2dfDgB43g/s3375/War%20Between%20Worlds%20Kindle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3375" data-original-width="2115" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61hIJCrfZvBgeceWc6Kl0N0t10zGI1Iw2oVm0zl9B7sSayTqDIUkG6tmHWTauI_36_-LgIUTqSksSmOtkoEYb_0vNiKP2tEycf9OXLc5IVSlrcKKlT8-TwJPFO-Rf5X0W6fYUq2CHxPXbxx-q94dB8nRvP3jJ98kl3UBXaNozzbWH0b3hp2dfDgB43g/s320/War%20Between%20Worlds%20Kindle.png" width="201" /></a></div><br />This is a debut fantasy novel by a teen author that combines thoughtful world-building, interesting characters, and action, adventure, and a mystery. Book 2 is in the works.<p></p><p>#9 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Midst-Stones-Book-ebook/dp/B08L1GXRSF" target="_blank">Fire from the Midst</a> by Sarah Ashwood</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFPS1JL7lsLYLewfrPZoev0HyPsugumKIPWk_maJYb9nuG9-Q8KSC5dDSD0CRsX84JBdmhVBfobKG3C5VU73jODlgWfBKcpQsXZ9TIkPNrjtLOGGk2sQxMiKzgFMgjDvL5BvWOALef3kS2KrkzCQ-sbIUuCm5KBDNutt2R-ATVyaSjoJ5d-Ceclt7zg/s500/2022%20Ashwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTFPS1JL7lsLYLewfrPZoev0HyPsugumKIPWk_maJYb9nuG9-Q8KSC5dDSD0CRsX84JBdmhVBfobKG3C5VU73jODlgWfBKcpQsXZ9TIkPNrjtLOGGk2sQxMiKzgFMgjDvL5BvWOALef3kS2KrkzCQ-sbIUuCm5KBDNutt2R-ATVyaSjoJ5d-Ceclt7zg/s320/2022%20Ashwood.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />This is book 3 of 4 in a suspenseful, gritty urban fantasy series combining a war between rival gangs of shapeshifters from Greek mythology and an unusual romance. Not my usual genre, but I've read other books by this author and got sucked into book 1 with her excellent writing skills!<p></p><p>#8 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/FEAR-unSPARKed-Book-CORINNA-TURNER-ebook/dp/B0B525XFPQ" target="_blank">Fear</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy3ZR6l15z1xGdL2rr-HuUMjf05SviJfZQtTmDvejUidCE7iryws3H_daQtSgpqUXu3Ux1NTXYmnIlQCWd879tUCzWNcqe3CWAbYlo14584H9rxH8mXQ0IF0HR5xQfsQIBvBTf6l4oqR8-AwpiVnQYI24KVzGSMv2ywXcTA6qv7Vzm_Zj6jkzq-a19CQ/s500/22%20Fear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy3ZR6l15z1xGdL2rr-HuUMjf05SviJfZQtTmDvejUidCE7iryws3H_daQtSgpqUXu3Ux1NTXYmnIlQCWd879tUCzWNcqe3CWAbYlo14584H9rxH8mXQ0IF0HR5xQfsQIBvBTf6l4oqR8-AwpiVnQYI24KVzGSMv2ywXcTA6qv7Vzm_Zj6jkzq-a19CQ/s320/22%20Fear.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />This is #7 in the unSPARKed dinosaur dystopian series that has become one of my all-time favorites, and not just because of the dinos! Turner's characters are unforgettable, and she makes the reader care deeply about what happens to them!<p></p><p>#7 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09PKGRKRV" target="_blank">In Other Words</a> by Julie B. Cosgrove</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NnOGuKxsWQARkQoaPdtZ71Rx-WMDaY5TRwAGRtl4pyLk61ZgmUsDMvD9yNFX6wK7G1Vi2VZwgVUEBw7k8no0fsP4ZGVDK5IhG-3KHp458oiScvo3WPq1rMHeinJyuMCtEutcqSrrEZ0jsVDXNPM-XnMVUX1iK5vmcMsXqdFqW9mCADZqOWlR8KWq3g/s500/22%20other%20words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NnOGuKxsWQARkQoaPdtZ71Rx-WMDaY5TRwAGRtl4pyLk61ZgmUsDMvD9yNFX6wK7G1Vi2VZwgVUEBw7k8no0fsP4ZGVDK5IhG-3KHp458oiScvo3WPq1rMHeinJyuMCtEutcqSrrEZ0jsVDXNPM-XnMVUX1iK5vmcMsXqdFqW9mCADZqOWlR8KWq3g/s320/22%20other%20words.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />This is book 3 in Cosgrove's fun cozy mystery series. I love her characters and the clever ways she weaves the plots around word play.<p></p><p>#6 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/All-Good-Time-Carolyn-Astfalk-ebook/dp/B07ZDHLGW2" target="_blank">All in Good Time</a> by Carolyn Astfalk</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8LYTVkz6P04p8OjhgmCbqptT89hk8SE-BNrsQq-J2xvxS_NVCYLZAMP-MaNjKiuvzLomqoGL9OFvSZSyZYAULfKdggTNfL_0e77t5UsgzGYqByOpea43tx3ZtT-vjBDbBahk1ebuYYUA6aXzZYISugkZhYxBp2KkKVUxYU4qA0cZndQ5a7cXBUhaxg/s500/22%20good%20time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8LYTVkz6P04p8OjhgmCbqptT89hk8SE-BNrsQq-J2xvxS_NVCYLZAMP-MaNjKiuvzLomqoGL9OFvSZSyZYAULfKdggTNfL_0e77t5UsgzGYqByOpea43tx3ZtT-vjBDbBahk1ebuYYUA6aXzZYISugkZhYxBp2KkKVUxYU4qA0cZndQ5a7cXBUhaxg/s320/22%20good%20time.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />This is a sweet contemporary romance with darker elements that bring to light current prevalent sins, but overall the story is uplifting with memorable and lovable characters.<p></p><p>#5 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09XKK4WYL" target="_blank">A Right Rex Rodeo</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5pCTTPOvbzffUvebLfSXn2fuetaTR3VgBc4bUrDPZuFwZZFGdklQpVToj4AnuIINA5blJMg-XVQPOTLyGaoAMPVHCrXPcSalzpUPVVl_M7O-F88uqCPUemBlDzDzyUtksNXkGwsDtRqcruPQxDAdbbHvKcISKT_xr2vzKjnwLY4FgbaFCa3Qv3tQEw/s500/22%20Rodeo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5pCTTPOvbzffUvebLfSXn2fuetaTR3VgBc4bUrDPZuFwZZFGdklQpVToj4AnuIINA5blJMg-XVQPOTLyGaoAMPVHCrXPcSalzpUPVVl_M7O-F88uqCPUemBlDzDzyUtksNXkGwsDtRqcruPQxDAdbbHvKcISKT_xr2vzKjnwLY4FgbaFCa3Qv3tQEw/s320/22%20Rodeo.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br />This is #6 in the dino series and is especially fascinating in its details of the hunter culture in Turner's realistic future world.<p></p><p>#4 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hang-Every-Word-Wordplay-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0B1GX65TK" target="_blank">Hang on Every Word</a> by Julie B. Cosgrove</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmsOsg_-zeRrd7WmxYOAUPEUOIlUAqrLGtrbu9St5OLsNbed9ep9Q6fILx4NPmweB4MtLoCtqhEoHijv8Yw60AamfqxM6BVewr5CBKCYBoBZMROfpolnE_NnCfRv4m8A5CBIIYYyNTbq_JBpc88a6zSsDKmrCMtHBfrUjzhL5uWpn_6PFCFdzgzuJ1A/s500/22%20Hang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmsOsg_-zeRrd7WmxYOAUPEUOIlUAqrLGtrbu9St5OLsNbed9ep9Q6fILx4NPmweB4MtLoCtqhEoHijv8Yw60AamfqxM6BVewr5CBKCYBoBZMROfpolnE_NnCfRv4m8A5CBIIYYyNTbq_JBpc88a6zSsDKmrCMtHBfrUjzhL5uWpn_6PFCFdzgzuJ1A/s320/22%20Hang.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />Book 4 in Cosgrove's mystery series is not quite as light as the others, and in some ways is the best so far! The MC is so human but relatable and admirable too!<p></p><p>#3 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BHMR3B9G" target="_blank">A Different Kind of Camouflage</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJAma-ahtYpsJ8GHVVLa6AyDFnPNaoMDheWoghm9pdxq9oLlGfoMNPDNZ2uXJeVe1sj_tlBA5IthAsnwvs1aGnZJP_0gyDyURnt8PlT_I7_BAPx9IaoyDhM6hmhZHvy-7oW6c7jlTKS930eL_WIoMYLtBGxMOzime3MtVNcqKJ8bnHOeQsjAvg2He6g/s500/22%20Camoflage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJAma-ahtYpsJ8GHVVLa6AyDFnPNaoMDheWoghm9pdxq9oLlGfoMNPDNZ2uXJeVe1sj_tlBA5IthAsnwvs1aGnZJP_0gyDyURnt8PlT_I7_BAPx9IaoyDhM6hmhZHvy-7oW6c7jlTKS930eL_WIoMYLtBGxMOzime3MtVNcqKJ8bnHOeQsjAvg2He6g/s320/22%20Camoflage.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />A powerful episode #8 in the dino series, still suspenseful even though it takes place in the city and not outside the electrified fences where dinos are the obvious (but not the only) danger.<p></p><p>#2 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09X24LR39" target="_blank">Please Don't Feed the Dinosaurs </a>by Corinna Turner</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJarIq7NG_2RJxQv2PPNDM8tsZWUE14VR2o3xNmEvMMxBeAqd6DmlM1mjF1_MEDsKQ1EwHOD8Np7A4aCCnNVeSJSx-T2aQblceW5HaqAhp761p1orjdmJgz76ma0vLb7pZx0ciervj7a0_pCnZQl622LvmaTaUr7lQ3lsN4Y6NmWQdyXt5xB6If-o1Qg/s500/22%20feed%20dinos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJarIq7NG_2RJxQv2PPNDM8tsZWUE14VR2o3xNmEvMMxBeAqd6DmlM1mjF1_MEDsKQ1EwHOD8Np7A4aCCnNVeSJSx-T2aQblceW5HaqAhp761p1orjdmJgz76ma0vLb7pZx0ciervj7a0_pCnZQl622LvmaTaUr7lQ3lsN4Y6NmWQdyXt5xB6If-o1Qg/s320/22%20feed%20dinos.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Turner's redo of book #1 made me nervous at first, because I couldn't imagine how she could improve on the original #1, Drive, but she did! It makes a stronger beginning to a fantastic series!</span></div><p></p><p>#1 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BKLQ6BC6" target="_blank">A Different Kind of Freedom</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9SnHuxtk5M4oXXXpChuz4kNI6HC8g6Mr2xDjJfT1H-go0fMQaLeK1DHDHXpCOTonf9V9rPOj6AqKFj833judklQ7g4Caow-xJFQvrzqAPh939mdiXSUxJj-u16NU8F7w5n-U6br9wgyWnr5NOjX7iQJVgGas6ZvmRHL7yngSceF0_2AJ1wlBoXqHnw/s500/22%20Freedom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9SnHuxtk5M4oXXXpChuz4kNI6HC8g6Mr2xDjJfT1H-go0fMQaLeK1DHDHXpCOTonf9V9rPOj6AqKFj833judklQ7g4Caow-xJFQvrzqAPh939mdiXSUxJj-u16NU8F7w5n-U6br9wgyWnr5NOjX7iQJVgGas6ZvmRHL7yngSceF0_2AJ1wlBoXqHnw/s320/22%20Freedom.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />This latest episode #9 in the dino series is so powerful, it was by far the best book I read this year (and for the past few years). Turner is a master at writing about characters of faith in mortal peril. I highly recommend this book, but it is best read as part of the series.<p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-86525995439707521962022-10-30T22:00:00.001-07:002022-10-30T22:00:00.181-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Powerful, emotional story about one of my favorite characters ever<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAVfz-MKu39O20AXwbfeVT2x6n2B0grtEf_nmx-pCXSjLctOCNdbINMcr4AxaGje5Jn9ne5Lsk07tNdx7vWW-cnnTjHL-yCdM35BhDZVhZQEpAi9OfJnpTlaArgw7JmzyFdkTjc6WlQPQjsHAjdRrfZMb-262ByFWqDV9a8JZApsF5TvVCqpBvpDXXA/s2016/IMG_3177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAVfz-MKu39O20AXwbfeVT2x6n2B0grtEf_nmx-pCXSjLctOCNdbINMcr4AxaGje5Jn9ne5Lsk07tNdx7vWW-cnnTjHL-yCdM35BhDZVhZQEpAi9OfJnpTlaArgw7JmzyFdkTjc6WlQPQjsHAjdRrfZMb-262ByFWqDV9a8JZApsF5TvVCqpBvpDXXA/s320/IMG_3177.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Book Dragon has read Corinna Turner's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Different-Kind-Freedom-unSPARKed-Book-ebook/dp/B0BKLQ6BC6" target="_blank">A Different Kind of Freedom</a>, book 9 in the unSPARKed series and gives it a resounding 5 claws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3xE841uZIIjWyETX69AloPj9qXsO6sJtWX7bhIRWmyEsOO9t1CDHnX3FAoa58iX0Ip88tJBBoC7-qf3KmNnoA0JaDAIu1ThmA3kYSf_m95g2JN3qgvTTuFxcZuL3DMprE7nyBZuiQbT874QhZYaqDsRHSUzL7mJCudTYu2EeeyJShw--tGCX9rW6Tw/s1600/Book%20Dragon%205%20claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3xE841uZIIjWyETX69AloPj9qXsO6sJtWX7bhIRWmyEsOO9t1CDHnX3FAoa58iX0Ip88tJBBoC7-qf3KmNnoA0JaDAIu1ThmA3kYSf_m95g2JN3qgvTTuFxcZuL3DMprE7nyBZuiQbT874QhZYaqDsRHSUzL7mJCudTYu2EeeyJShw--tGCX9rW6Tw/s320/Book%20Dragon%205%20claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My review: I'm so grateful Ms. Turner released #8 and #9 close together, because the two stories happen at the same time and are woven together in many ways. It would have been excruciating to wait to read what happened to Josh! And this story is all his. When we last saw Josh in book 7, he was near death from an infected rex bite and would rather have died from his injury than be trapped in city, in prison because of his real phobia of the city. He does survive and he is sent to prison, so his worst nightmares have come true! This book is his intense, nail-biting survival story among the worst of human predators. And yet, he learns so many spiritual truths while in prison and grows in many ways. A unforgettable, powerful scene near the end brought tears to my eyes, the first time that has happened in this series (so far). There are rays of hope by the end, and I'm anxiously waiting for the next in the series to see how everything comes together between Josh and Darryl & Harry, for an unexpected revelation has changed everything! That's all I'm going to say about it; you must read it for yourself, and you'll be glad you did!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This book is featured, along with all of Ms. Turner's many wonderful books, at <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books</a>.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-90986447276318929082022-10-24T10:45:00.001-07:002022-10-24T10:45:31.596-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Stellar installment in an exciting dinosaur dystopia series<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnG14uQym0PpBdgt7lb9pWpC1l4-Gc4KkckkDqvhk93M7m1xDtscUbpaE8ADcKC7Hxoq7-nrIPS6vcR1ELST2wizCz7ctiLQCa6BDVECkJbVXyarI__m2hV_s1gUNSgT4PfT0QekpAZyc5Q-PJ72YXuuEE-wq70L7YR2ZwZ4-PtzuwTFSKVWFK5CHNw/s2016/IMG_3165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnG14uQym0PpBdgt7lb9pWpC1l4-Gc4KkckkDqvhk93M7m1xDtscUbpaE8ADcKC7Hxoq7-nrIPS6vcR1ELST2wizCz7ctiLQCa6BDVECkJbVXyarI__m2hV_s1gUNSgT4PfT0QekpAZyc5Q-PJ72YXuuEE-wq70L7YR2ZwZ4-PtzuwTFSKVWFK5CHNw/s320/IMG_3165.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The Book Dragon has finished Corinna Turner's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Different-Kind-Camouflage-unSPARKed-Book-ebook/dp/B0BHMR3B9G" target="_blank">A Different Kind of Camouflage</a>, book 8 in the unSPARKed series and gives it a ripping 5 claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6p5CyXUTaCAj7YHUvmi09n2bqa84lKLVeQp_rNcapE1lQpCgFUUevyikxkTIcKDBbvIbqyB1ZrLs8QEZR68qR9dSfxEA6E3AfENHlpYaR-PNV13KqNduzuZHPwGEGGZmnbdYS2FACyX7S6damrhoQeQZ2ADGzzWy_K-CJHuChEIqLLmER4RRucgg2A/s1600/Book%20Dragon%205%20claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6p5CyXUTaCAj7YHUvmi09n2bqa84lKLVeQp_rNcapE1lQpCgFUUevyikxkTIcKDBbvIbqyB1ZrLs8QEZR68qR9dSfxEA6E3AfENHlpYaR-PNV13KqNduzuZHPwGEGGZmnbdYS2FACyX7S6damrhoQeQZ2ADGzzWy_K-CJHuChEIqLLmER4RRucgg2A/s320/Book%20Dragon%205%20claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div><br /></div>My review: I have read and loved every installment of the fast-paced, nail-biting unSPARKed series, but this one went even deeper into the emotions of teen siblings Darryl and Harry Franklyn, who have been taken into the "safe" city by a CPS villainess who joins a sort of "club" with Harry Potter's Dolores Umbridge and Hunger Games' Effie Trinket, all outwardly primped and proper nasties. She causes much trouble for Darryl and Harry; this is their brilliantly written "survival" story. For nearly a year, they learned the skills of living in the wild among dinosaurs and now must adapt those skills to predators and obstacles of different kinds in separate living facilities: Darryl in a group home and Harry with kind but completely unfamiliar foster parents. Though their obstacles to freedom appear impossible to overcome, there are rays of hope, and two scenes at the end will make your heart smile, even though they are not out of danger yet ... and the reader can't help but be as anxious about Josh's welfare as Darryl and Harry are. This is a must-read series for anyone who has been a nerd about dinosaurs, ages 8-88!<div><br /></div><div>This book along with other wonderful books by the prolific Ms. Turner can be found at the <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books site</a>.<br /><p><br /></p></div>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-2635046488840427012022-06-22T04:41:00.000-07:002022-06-22T04:41:44.101-07:00Birthing a book is hard work<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbttvxwCfBAVCIXKfD9BAf9t70rZ1ZuP5JKeqdDifAtJlTODkJY3J9cX5lbfeVxJcKyZJ__BghLBlOr1RVzCOB8NqjlOk0SsQRHOtcMRYVN1rExK2MGCcqKWrlT67DMZ5k7yoVwK1vtxSRNnCqJdNfflT__55dOPd_kJH9QxnA2Qx-5muFRjuX_6K5QQ/s1620/_a%20beautiful%20and%20rich%20book%20filled%20with%20the%20trials%20of%20being%20a%20king.%20(3).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1620" data-original-width="1620" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbttvxwCfBAVCIXKfD9BAf9t70rZ1ZuP5JKeqdDifAtJlTODkJY3J9cX5lbfeVxJcKyZJ__BghLBlOr1RVzCOB8NqjlOk0SsQRHOtcMRYVN1rExK2MGCcqKWrlT67DMZ5k7yoVwK1vtxSRNnCqJdNfflT__55dOPd_kJH9QxnA2Qx-5muFRjuX_6K5QQ/s320/_a%20beautiful%20and%20rich%20book%20filled%20with%20the%20trials%20of%20being%20a%20king.%20(3).png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>I never intended to disappear for so many months. On New Year's Eve we had a serious leak under our kitchen sink which led to having our foundation leveled (apparently a common problem in North Texas), more expensive repairs, and months' of other plumbing issues which still aren't resolved, but it looks like we're going to have our entire sewer system replaced (cast iron pipes for PVC). Needless to say, with all the money going out and watching our savings deplete as quickly as the plumber's water test proved there was a leak somewhere, I went back to work. I signed a lease for a 10 x 10 stall in an antique mall. It's been a lot of work, but more fun than I anticipated, meeting new people all the time and learning about "vintage" stuff. And best of all, all those extra steps I walk every day are helpful in managing my lymphedema, even in this Texas heat.<p></p><p>For awhile, I feared I had lost my ability to write. I had planned to finish <i>Fiona's Gift </i>in January and publish in March or April, but I couldn't concentrate, either on writing or reading books of any kind. But I kept pushing ahead, sometimes only writing a couple sentences or paragraphs a day, determined to slog through the drought of words. The book was complicated by the fact that the headstrong Fiona changed the plot on me. Good thing I let her, though, because it made the story much stronger. It also turned out to be the longest novel I've ever written--156,000 words!</p><p>I was able to finish, to my great relief. The Kindle version releases June 24, but it will be next month before the paperback will be ready, in part because the manuscript is so long, and because I have to remember <i>how</i> to format. Because Fiona's story changed, Tristam's will, too. I hope to begin the last book in this series as soon as possible.</p><p>Also because of something that happens in this book (totally unexpected), a third series is percolating inside my head: <i>Mercy's Grandchildren</i>. I really, truly thought Tristam's story would be the end of my time in Levathia, but the characters have taken on a life of their own, and I no longer control their lives. I am merely a scribe to record the stories they wish to be recorded. One of the strangest (and coolest) things that has ever happened to me!</p><p>Fiona is Mercy's most difficult child: headstrong to the nth degree. Her story is a kind of "prodigal daughter" tale (along with the further adventures of Val and Emma, and getting to know Tristam better). Even I didn't know what her "gift" would be until I finished writing the book! I hope and pray it is a satisfying read and an encouragement, which is always my goal, along with glorifying God my Father.</p><p>I have dedicated this book to a precious young mother who lost her life last December while battling covid in a hospital. I never had the opportunity to meet Allie in person, but she and I connected on FaceBook after her mother introduced her to Mercy & the gang. Allie was such an enthusiastic participant in my FB launch party for Mercy's Joy, which I designed to "feel" like an actual coronation party with a medieval tournament. For the first time I was SO tempted to give her one of the prizes, even though random(dot)org never once picked her number! She was so sweet to message me with heartfelt thanks that reading how Mercy and Valerian and Kieran handled the extreme trials in their lives encouraged her in her own struggles. That has been an unexpected blessing of this author journey--to connect with readers on such a deep level, I felt like a family member died when sweet Allie succumbed to the ventilator.</p><p>May you find joy in the midst of trials, for there is definitely joy to be found when we open our eyes!</p><p><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2MHD66M" target="_blank">Fiona's Gift </a></i>on Amazon is 99 cents to preorder, and if I forget to change the price, like I did last year for <i>Valerian's Flight</i>, it will still be 99 cents after launch date. My chemo-induced brain damage is your gain! LOL</p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-31833651461359094212021-12-07T06:50:00.000-08:002021-12-07T06:50:01.090-08:00The 10 Best Books I Read in 2021<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFAIcNtOJ8EnUB2dnsQ1cqASXapI_Dg0WnNF0-OaxPc7oIoM7GFxP1qkwrqNRJGliS2SpdrnCo0USXQ_FphBhRo3qswMEN_cumesg1WGUZYI8QCd0rT_OOfQo_auOjk1blqV0KpApOFh2/s960/Book+writing+agony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="726" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFAIcNtOJ8EnUB2dnsQ1cqASXapI_Dg0WnNF0-OaxPc7oIoM7GFxP1qkwrqNRJGliS2SpdrnCo0USXQ_FphBhRo3qswMEN_cumesg1WGUZYI8QCd0rT_OOfQo_auOjk1blqV0KpApOFh2/s320/Book+writing+agony.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><p>What a strange year for reading and writing and (lack of) concentration! I struggled to finish what I thought was going to be the easiest to write in my current fantasy series and felt a huge sense of relief when I published it in July. So far book 4 is flowing easier, but the story is veering away from what I thought it was going to be, so it will be interesting to see how this difficult character redeems herself....</p><p>Meanwhile, though I'm not including any on this list, I read much more nonfiction than I have in a long time, mainly because I made a New Year's resolution to develop a green thumb. I knew I couldn't grow plants the way my father did, or my sisters do, so I did it my way: science projects! I've managed to keep 90% of my houseplants thriving, but I'm still failing spectacularly with outside plants in this unforgiving climate. I'll keep trying!</p><p>Much of the fiction I read this year was by the same author, the fabulous Corinna Turner, which is why so many of her books appear in this list. I only "met" my Goodreads goal by counting Gerald and Piggie books I read aloud with my 7 year old granddaughter. Author Mo Willems does a fabulous job of writing fun and accessible books for struggling readers, and I appreciate him for encouraging my granddaughter and grandson to love books, but I haven't included any of those books in this list.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioD8t9FQjefZStcvFAZLK50s14mGnyWxQ9egQzSsGtwRyE2zVwo2n-6A5D-qhuJcVNpO1OxbWSWhiXbgceIvxt8ZGxAOR6H1g4gSWRTj81ThG4i4WLAxAWLeQt9pfIIurpUYFqucJxrulG/s345/2021+Guardian+series.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="345" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioD8t9FQjefZStcvFAZLK50s14mGnyWxQ9egQzSsGtwRyE2zVwo2n-6A5D-qhuJcVNpO1OxbWSWhiXbgceIvxt8ZGxAOR6H1g4gSWRTj81ThG4i4WLAxAWLeQt9pfIIurpUYFqucJxrulG/s320/2021+Guardian+series.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>#10: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Guardian-Calling-Kathryn-Braddock-ebook/dp/B08QV85LGQ" target="_blank">The Guardian series</a> by Kathryn Braddock</p><p>I read books 2 and 3 this year, and I must say, this teen author is so good at getting inside a wolf's head and making these characters believably realistic! If you like fantasy with wolves, I recommend beginning with the first book, as the trilogy is episodic.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStmIGbmRCju6xMx2_q4v7gZVhZ6gjNn-WZSSPOc0j_4XK-fyOV_l7dDt9QiO6kQOZ89orQrDdTBUfphootoC2hZgUfd3oQyyR0b4arQnBR9czBx81BIp1QiNNto0qAmDPHNrFmP3j45Jl/s500/2021+Mistletoe+Mistake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="309" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStmIGbmRCju6xMx2_q4v7gZVhZ6gjNn-WZSSPOc0j_4XK-fyOV_l7dDt9QiO6kQOZ89orQrDdTBUfphootoC2hZgUfd3oQyyR0b4arQnBR9czBx81BIp1QiNNto0qAmDPHNrFmP3j45Jl/s320/2021+Mistletoe+Mistake.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><p>#9: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Her-Mistletoe-Mistake-Mishaps-Book-ebook/dp/B09J45L616" target="_blank">Her Mistletoe Mistake</a> by Franky A. Brown</p><p>Romance is not my favorite genre, but Brown is especially good at writing "rom com" and this story is no exception! Ski-instructor Chloe and serviceman Nathan have both been burned in the recent past, but when they meet there are fireworks of all different kinds. A fun Christmas story with two lovable MCs and a cast of well-rounded minor characters set in the fictional town of Mistletoe, Colorado.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OCQNPNlrio6YDJY4JsrpiykSereqqtWRZU3HwwsK_0pNWFsNMU_AIogsfa0OeTHwVekoxctkphT6Zr5A5oqcSW2D6D3dTaxeM5bK09XETRksLSBdyiilYowg4dSf2YfM7hRdHT5H8ea2/s500/2021+Rightfully+Ours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OCQNPNlrio6YDJY4JsrpiykSereqqtWRZU3HwwsK_0pNWFsNMU_AIogsfa0OeTHwVekoxctkphT6Zr5A5oqcSW2D6D3dTaxeM5bK09XETRksLSBdyiilYowg4dSf2YfM7hRdHT5H8ea2/s320/2021+Rightfully+Ours.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><p>#8: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rightfully-Ours-Carolyn-Astfalk-ebook/dp/B06XTCC1X3" target="_blank">Rightfully Ours</a> by Carolyn Astfalk</p><p>This is an unusual love story about two teens, Paul and Rachel, but also involves a mystery about historical artifacts. The characters are real and engaging, and the setting is so well-drawn, the reader feels transported to the place. There is a strong theme of chastity and waiting until marriage, and the story deals realistically with the temptations faced by every teen in love.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifITUduC0Ho99zWMnUJIjxkTEC9gWbjrtxDosd7FXovvQ6SVIwL9T6t307CUWJpeFX-gjMcYWBVi9gLFOlH_hIsEMJ4iJQi96YWtBSRbBCpdnamiT5JpJ6QroQ67KEEuanxrt3C8rActqc/s500/2021+Liberation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifITUduC0Ho99zWMnUJIjxkTEC9gWbjrtxDosd7FXovvQ6SVIwL9T6t307CUWJpeFX-gjMcYWBVi9gLFOlH_hIsEMJ4iJQi96YWtBSRbBCpdnamiT5JpJ6QroQ67KEEuanxrt3C8rActqc/s320/2021+Liberation.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><p>#7: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0163DAICW" target="_blank">Liberation: A Dystopian Novel about Courage, Freedom, and Sacrifice</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p>This is the third book in Turner's incredible I Am Margaret series, and it continues where the last book left off. Margaret, Bane, Jon, and the rest of the exiles are as safe as possible from the vengeful EuroGov, but Margaret can't help but think about how to liberate other teens destined to be killed to recycle their organs. So liberate they do, but at a very high cost. Nail-biting action and suspense! I recommend you start with book 1: <i>I Am Margaret</i>. You will never forget the courage of this amazing young woman!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiTciJbogRZmlmi0jx8KXjhyphenhyphenNyETVLamYuTIYRjXtgEa9yWFys4marfhBF1yRaqc2nc4Z8EApCgk0ylsmb67vBEth3t5Re6ym21sKA5yWDBs-8ZdDOYTEoWviORmKHQeLu3SG6vosH4mfp/s500/2021+Word+Has+It.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="362" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiTciJbogRZmlmi0jx8KXjhyphenhyphenNyETVLamYuTIYRjXtgEa9yWFys4marfhBF1yRaqc2nc4Z8EApCgk0ylsmb67vBEth3t5Re6ym21sKA5yWDBs-8ZdDOYTEoWviORmKHQeLu3SG6vosH4mfp/s320/2021+Word+Has+It.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><p>#6: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Word-Has-Wordplay-Mysteries-Book-ebook/dp/B08VS5V1F1" target="_blank">Word Has It</a> by Julie B. Cosgrove</p><p>Mystery has never been my favorite genre, but Cosgrove writes fun cozy Christian mystery series. This is book 1 in a new series, and I love the way the author weaves the stories around word-themed clues, since her MC Wanda loves to play Scrabble with her nephew the policeman in a small Texas town. Wanda is believable and makes you want to give her a hug, and her friends and neighbors are all realistic, from the sensible to the zany to the suspicious. Recommended, even if you don't read mysteries!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzfCTb36qPYkpNpvKO4NwdOswstaBAno1EIHC4QcR_VSPb_W0Bdx8F80Tiche8N1Q427M8huY8h5lh0KThVwahoBYZR1ChQN7FjshMfM5lgbLnzlTYf3Kjc01mAMJIxfYklnLBkZPBkfX/s500/2021+Marrying+Emma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzfCTb36qPYkpNpvKO4NwdOswstaBAno1EIHC4QcR_VSPb_W0Bdx8F80Tiche8N1Q427M8huY8h5lh0KThVwahoBYZR1ChQN7FjshMfM5lgbLnzlTYf3Kjc01mAMJIxfYklnLBkZPBkfX/s320/2021+Marrying+Emma.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p>#5: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08RXKNKNL" target="_blank">Marrying Emma</a> by Melanie D. Snitker</p><p>I've read several other books by this terrific author. She writes Christian romance, and although romance is not my favorite genre, Snitker is SO good at writing sympathetic characters with whom it is easy to relate and cheer for. This book has two especially sympathetic characters: Marty who has lost a leg in an accident, and Emma who has had a heart transplant. Both are lonely but neither believes they'll find someone who can live with their medical challenges. This book can be read as a standalone in the series Brides of Clearwater, but it's good enough it will make you want to read more of them!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiGr0UgxeDPPPgpE1e58mmBKfWHrtwM4r3LxmTjoOPf2f39ygK82AZ20TVWlOEK81hK6c7GfBmWAlO2IOr9jp2uxWa9GTNIPrniCss4JnEq3fsB2iDPaJ3AadiP4oTzZb9gHwQMTmCt9i/s500/2021+Wild+Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQiGr0UgxeDPPPgpE1e58mmBKfWHrtwM4r3LxmTjoOPf2f39ygK82AZ20TVWlOEK81hK6c7GfBmWAlO2IOr9jp2uxWa9GTNIPrniCss4JnEq3fsB2iDPaJ3AadiP4oTzZb9gHwQMTmCt9i/s320/2021+Wild+Life.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><p>#4: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09GYVPS3P" target="_blank">Wild Life</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p>This is #5 in Turner's excellent unSPARKed dystopian series, set in a future United States with dinosaurs. I used to despise dystopian novels until I discovered this author. She has created courageous and sympathetic characters with whom it is easy to love and admire, and focuses more on their spiritual lives while they are surviving in harsh and unforgiving places. I recommend you begin with book 1, since this series is episodic, but if you ever liked dinosaurs, it is worth your time, and you may find a new favorite series, like I have!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabQmvuuaveWVdoNvfU3mNWv9kQkdRUQ7NOhM_VgluLyqDnH7kKUd26e1BSImSZvHcMFeCLmTPYKkwvI5OJff9DtFu9Mjska5VvTmJI_6IIhti0wUTAFZiNzpuF7TusD1Fsc2U94KuHNCR/s500/2021+Dino+Whisperer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabQmvuuaveWVdoNvfU3mNWv9kQkdRUQ7NOhM_VgluLyqDnH7kKUd26e1BSImSZvHcMFeCLmTPYKkwvI5OJff9DtFu9Mjska5VvTmJI_6IIhti0wUTAFZiNzpuF7TusD1Fsc2U94KuHNCR/s320/2021+Dino+Whisperer.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><p>#3: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08PZGLT9Y" target="_blank">A Dino Whisperer at the Zoo</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p>Okay, this one is technically a short story, but it is SO good and can be read as a standalone from Turner's dinosaur series AND as a bonus, it's free on Amazon, so check it out! This author is SO good at writing heart-stopping action.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dlBWs6XVikoW3Ai0krcxM0IYGDatHgAYr066wUfHzg2wU5HSt9CxZ5DMktciSI5g50DZnBBHE5-nZwKF4CPlDMd2WDGSZquc5-cUK54V2CjwuC98dnfrVCGHfaMsIsaIzif8-kqlMccn/s500/2021+Breach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dlBWs6XVikoW3Ai0krcxM0IYGDatHgAYr066wUfHzg2wU5HSt9CxZ5DMktciSI5g50DZnBBHE5-nZwKF4CPlDMd2WDGSZquc5-cUK54V2CjwuC98dnfrVCGHfaMsIsaIzif8-kqlMccn/s320/2021+Breach.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><p>#2: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TMZRMPF" target="_blank">Breach!</a> by Corinna Turner</p><p>This is a stand-alone prequel novel in the unSPARKed series, and is well-written, compelling, and blew me away that Turner could write a dystopian novel with such a powerful pro-life theme! As a bonus, it details the origin of my favorite character in this world.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0PWpfnTtGp9mTYOz__aZWSxArrXhPtQp54WQussLpx0lKqcNrAw3ulkeaxsd8HJSNsbJxiO3I-sEEiy_dtqA0tfDD6EbBCwDkjAXEDW_p-Cdw9faSzEuon3se9rMejAHS0d7dZsX1pok_/s500/2021+Heartless+Hette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0PWpfnTtGp9mTYOz__aZWSxArrXhPtQp54WQussLpx0lKqcNrAw3ulkeaxsd8HJSNsbJxiO3I-sEEiy_dtqA0tfDD6EbBCwDkjAXEDW_p-Cdw9faSzEuon3se9rMejAHS0d7dZsX1pok_/s320/2021+Heartless+Hette.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><p>#1: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heartless-Hette-Hearth-Bard-Tales-ebook/dp/B099YWX9VT" target="_blank">Heartless Hette</a> by M. L. Farb</p><p>Even though this book is #3 in a series, it is a stand-alone in every way. And oddly enough, when I first began this book, which became my favorite read of the year, I was worried I wouldn't be able to finish it. Farb is one of my new favorite writers, but Hette was not a very sympathetic character at first. As I continued, I saw why. This is the story of her journey--not just a physical quest, but a test of character for her. And what a magnificent journey it is, full of twists and turns, totally unpredictable! I loved the section with the riddles, and the wonderful supporting characters. I was fully immersed in this story and could feel the mud and grit, the unbearable tension and despair. The ending was completely satisfying and very unexpected! Highly recommended for all ages.</p><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-77414235353751739982021-11-26T06:59:00.002-08:002021-11-26T06:59:41.893-08:00Time to stock up on Clean Indie Reads!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZlfNgVFOh1fG7GqTtBxHtMUN4N54hqUTwutsOmM6iDkEUC7wZm0l_XTSsezIKNivdj8QZN-wAir908e9HF18mrbnaVmrp20LgYUrU3mhmuhbzQf9-z5hHj60u-oyKq_Jx9Tqo7WjpU2_/s1080/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZlfNgVFOh1fG7GqTtBxHtMUN4N54hqUTwutsOmM6iDkEUC7wZm0l_XTSsezIKNivdj8QZN-wAir908e9HF18mrbnaVmrp20LgYUrU3mhmuhbzQf9-z5hHj60u-oyKq_Jx9Tqo7WjpU2_/s320/1.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today through Cyber Monday is a fantastic annual sale of Clean Indie Reads in several genres, all either free or 99 cents! I have several books in this sale, but I want to especially recommend three of my favorite fantasy series represented: Annals of Alasia by Annie Douglass Lima, Ilyon Chronicles by Jaye L. Knight, and The Blades of Acktar by Tricia Mingerink. Though I haven't read all of the books listed on this site, I've read a large percentage of them, and I can recommend most of the authors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's the link: <a href="https://sale.perrykirkpatrick.com/" target="_blank">Black Friday Book Sale</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope you find some new favorite authors!!!!</div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-8158634288824529262021-10-17T22:00:00.005-07:002021-10-17T22:00:00.245-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Newest installment in my favorite dinosaur dystopian series<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9kHfBbQviOrAOh2UErSixdEvf0cwrqfTBszC1hZHtyY8Z7ztVqaJ1yHlmLIbP529xSjivTlhtuqA2OJGIt9PPz7A16NInylq4M1oNPG3KMsqlCyAOy0Ir17-zasYx8kDBqkkPCzViihU/s2016/IMG_1838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9kHfBbQviOrAOh2UErSixdEvf0cwrqfTBszC1hZHtyY8Z7ztVqaJ1yHlmLIbP529xSjivTlhtuqA2OJGIt9PPz7A16NInylq4M1oNPG3KMsqlCyAOy0Ir17-zasYx8kDBqkkPCzViihU/s320/IMG_1838.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>The Book Dragon has finished Corinna Turner's latest installment in her unSPARKed! series, <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09GYVPS3P" target="_blank">Wild Life</a></i>, and gives it five enthusiastic claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p>My review: Even though I would prefer this story had been written as one long novel, the "serial" format reminds me of some of my favorite old TV shows in the 1960's (yes, I am that old), where each weekly episode ended on a cliffhanger, or at least with something unresolved so you'd anticipate the next installment (notably <i>Lost in Space</i> and <i>The Time Tunnel</i>). The unSPARKed! series is exactly that. It's difficult to wait for the next episode, but it is DEFINITELY worth the wait! This story has become one of my all-time favorites, with memorable characters I've come to care about very much, set in a future United States with dinosaurs, which I've loved since I was a young child. Unlike <i>Jurassic Park</i>, this story focuses more on the spiritual life and day-to-day survival of the human characters and hardly mentions the science involved in bringing dinosaur species back from extinction.</p><p>In this installment, which is #5, 16 yo Darryl and her brother Harry are settling in with their new employer Josh, who is a hunter living in the unSPARKed wilds where dinosaurs roam and life expectancy is short, even within a specially designed HabVi (a reinforced and modified RV that sounds like it's been crossed with a tank). Not only do the teens have much to learn from the experienced Josh (who is only 18 himself), they face danger from more than predatory dinosaurs.</p><p>I would have loved this series as a teen, and love it now even though I'm far past that age. I recommend it for anyone who likes adventure and survival stories with a clean and religious bent, especially readers who like dinosaurs. I would suggest you begin with #1 and read them in order, though there are other stories in this world which can be read out of order.</p><p>This novella and the rest of the volumes set in this world can be found at <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/corinna-turner" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books</a>. You don't want to miss this talented author's stories!</p><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-68232157484908569592021-10-04T02:00:00.001-07:002021-10-04T02:00:00.201-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: An epic fairytale quest by one of my favorite fantasy authors!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfReBoaTw3K8enRDvdUCvmh39N4eJ-9m6HlF7MQS_HyQW1s25r_GmZQV-xglwnWNUYp-vfLlDZyUIOnCBnzmrcecdxyNLA5OphkWKwHJUfnd-uIf5b0K6A8bfu9km431_oUs6i1u5i9EW/s2016/IMG_1753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfReBoaTw3K8enRDvdUCvmh39N4eJ-9m6HlF7MQS_HyQW1s25r_GmZQV-xglwnWNUYp-vfLlDZyUIOnCBnzmrcecdxyNLA5OphkWKwHJUfnd-uIf5b0K6A8bfu9km431_oUs6i1u5i9EW/s320/IMG_1753.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heartless-Hette-Hearth-Bard-Tales-ebook/dp/B099YWX9VT" target="_blank">Heartless Hette</a> by M. L. Farb and gives it a resounding 5 claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div><br /></div>My review: Having fallen in love with the previous three books I've read from this author, I confess I was a little nervous when I started this newest story. The POV character, Hette, didn't seem like someone with whom I'd want to spend several hours while going on an adventure. And the situation seemed like the setup for a gothic horror story. BUT I am glad I kept reading, because Hette's journey was more than a fantastic physical quest; it was a JOY watching her learn life lessons from unexpected people (and fantasy creatures). While Farb drew from fairy tale lore and set the story in a fictional Germania (which I also love, having German heritage) this is an original story, NOT a retold fairy tale. The supporting characters are fully present and add so much depth to the story; the setting is so realistic, you can feel the grit and mud and cold and unbearable heat; and the tension becomes unbearable in places, it's so well-plotted. I LOVE the riddles, too! That part reminded me of Bilbo Baggins and Gollum, but only superficially, because Farb makes everything fresh and new. The ending is very satisfying, in unexpected ways! Highly recommended for all ages.<div><br /><p><br /></p></div>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-83335944933540395592021-09-13T02:00:00.011-07:002021-09-13T02:00:00.196-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Fun Book 2 in a Christian cozy mystery series<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6MVAouSwNKYzTmhfJOAc3UU59HzGBh82fgG6MH8JWH9XPvjHRUwDAzFYvGwILizpoV23lfaG5IXlTquACHAhWv48ChPRC1W3O1DDr6XWKjcoZ9Ga6BScRdOkLBHDNUy8LuxZ2Wvcg1Us/s2016/IMG_1724.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6MVAouSwNKYzTmhfJOAc3UU59HzGBh82fgG6MH8JWH9XPvjHRUwDAzFYvGwILizpoV23lfaG5IXlTquACHAhWv48ChPRC1W3O1DDr6XWKjcoZ9Ga6BScRdOkLBHDNUy8LuxZ2Wvcg1Us/s320/IMG_1724.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Word-Gets-Around-Wordplay-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B098KDXB7G" target="_blank">Word Gets Around</a> (Wordplay Mysteries Book 2) by Julie B. Cosgrove and gives it 5 claws!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>My review: I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Word Has It, and was excited to see the author had released another volume. From the first few pages, I felt as if I was revisiting old friends, for Ms. Cosgrove is excellent at creating believable, loveable, and very unique characters. Her group of senior citizen friends, led by Scrabble-loving Wanda, find themselves in the middle of another mystery in their small Texas town involving cryptic one word notes left on windshields, a missing reporter, a trashed newsroom, and gourmet coffee. This is such a fun story, and I feel even more attached to Wanda and her friends. Her nephew the policeman is adorable too, and now I'm wondering if "Aunt Wanda" is going to be playing matchmaker in a future book.... This author has made me a fan of cozy mystery. If you love squeaky clean cozies with thoughtful twisty plots and loveable characters, this series is for you! As a bonus there are recipes included in many chapters (Wanda and her friends love to cook).<br /><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-64903945909620530222021-07-12T02:00:00.002-07:002021-07-12T02:00:00.259-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Suspenseful, moving prequel in a dinosaur dystopia series<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1JNkCeTeO6uxXrCkp4Wq6QI2hTB8bujxwLspjYdvWXcQUg8rxMHn4uMA5Rcq7ES-BQMPmi3Ua9-PQ7QG6wYFx6DHd0Iv8n6kyaAtahWEwan8oIGuw7zWY8Qbn0meeoqa1i6NREN8R_4O/s2016/IMG_1411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1JNkCeTeO6uxXrCkp4Wq6QI2hTB8bujxwLspjYdvWXcQUg8rxMHn4uMA5Rcq7ES-BQMPmi3Ua9-PQ7QG6wYFx6DHd0Iv8n6kyaAtahWEwan8oIGuw7zWY8Qbn0meeoqa1i6NREN8R_4O/s320/IMG_1411.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Book Dragon has read Corinna Turner's <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/BREACH-unSPARKed-Corinna-Turner/dp/1910806706" target="_blank">Breach!</a></i> and gives it 5 roaring claws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My review: Having read all the other installments in this fantastic dinosaur dystopian series, I was eager to finally read the prequel to discover the origin of one of the important characters and was NOT at all disappointed! The POV character is sympathetic and realistically portrayed, and his plight added to the already tense and suspenseful situation regarding a fence breach by a T-rex in a crowded resort. It's genius how the author combines an action-packed story involving deadly dinosaurs with a strong pro-life message, but it works wonderfully well, drawing out every emotion on the spectrum within a relatively short span of pages. Anyone who loves dinos, like I have my entire life, needs to read all the installments in this series. Though this one can be read out of order, I encourage you to begin here and read everything in chronological order, if possible. Even if you jump around, like I have, everything will make sense (and make you want to re-read the whole lot again and again). Prepare to be immersed in an unforgettably believable dystopian North America!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Note: Find this and other books by the prolific Corinna Turner at <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/corinna-turner" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books</a>.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-61843617000613251662021-06-28T04:55:00.000-07:002021-06-28T04:55:52.054-07:00Rejoice with me! I finished my "covid" book!!!!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyIWGODYpmWhiAA9rwmEHrt7sB6vT8EC0rHdb1s9vAHyXs1_hPnKF6IWTjMWuvZIjNqPaJCw5Zvp37nP-oRwKnTNW5mVVj6VYVXlmiKD0b_hAk8PyUM_lamvePKeQ9O2DCrVZPlQJWiSC/s2048/Val%2527s+Flight+smaller+file.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyIWGODYpmWhiAA9rwmEHrt7sB6vT8EC0rHdb1s9vAHyXs1_hPnKF6IWTjMWuvZIjNqPaJCw5Zvp37nP-oRwKnTNW5mVVj6VYVXlmiKD0b_hAk8PyUM_lamvePKeQ9O2DCrVZPlQJWiSC/s320/Val%2527s+Flight+smaller+file.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After my husband and I returned from the Czech Republic the end of March 2020 (after being "stuck" for two extra weeks with four days' of clothing--although spending more time in my favorite place with friends who now feel like extended family was more paradise than any hardship at all) I had a difficult time concentrating on ANYTHING, much less writing! And when my husband was laid off, things became even more stressful. I feared after 35 years of writing my words had dried up forever.</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But God was merciful, and my husband finally found a job (though much less pay and not in his field). Gradually my characters started speaking to me again, and I was able to finish this story. Ironically, I thought it would be the easiest in the series to write because it's mostly a tale of survival on the journey to manhood. My critique partner was amazed I was able to put together a coherent book, and she said the ending was her favorite in both series. So I am well content. 😊</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first two in the series, Dolan's Bride and Joy's Sorrow, are <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dolans-Bride-Mercys-Children-Book-ebook/dp/B084CZ32JP" target="_blank">FREE</a> today, and Valerian's Flight is available for preorder at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097L1ZY7H" target="_blank">99 cents</a>. Release day is July 1st, the 6th anniversary of the book that started this whole epic story, Mercy's Prince. I may make that one free, just to celebrate!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNY0eOsERyep2GMvsbGzPIwiXdjBAEJc4Vj_rsXkh72boOlxg7AFJsTa1qBQ_RilyWbtEE9XHllQk8cnjVg30wnhiFDZI35N04FknhJMrEu6Aw82VCc577nrT271dNaSlJFVNmhslHccwF/s1080/Book+3+of+Mercy%2527s+Children+coming+July+1st%2521.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNY0eOsERyep2GMvsbGzPIwiXdjBAEJc4Vj_rsXkh72boOlxg7AFJsTa1qBQ_RilyWbtEE9XHllQk8cnjVg30wnhiFDZI35N04FknhJMrEu6Aw82VCc577nrT271dNaSlJFVNmhslHccwF/s320/Book+3+of+Mercy%2527s+Children+coming+July+1st%2521.png" /></a></div><br /><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-42731213560380242542021-04-05T02:00:00.001-07:002021-04-05T02:00:00.218-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Christmas + dinosaurs + dystopian world = great story year 'round!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbnRPRnSzPKWhJ3Y8X9uz8WOiX6t2F1OqJPiUKmiDa-gxrAUnjcCAz8iETEntcijannpnnNVdk_E_RgEkilvtFKS-_R1rVnsyVyCfygvSnGyntiNsxEwXyzSK6UCwwVbiZ9yL5B2MOHet/s2016/IMG_1104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbnRPRnSzPKWhJ3Y8X9uz8WOiX6t2F1OqJPiUKmiDa-gxrAUnjcCAz8iETEntcijannpnnNVdk_E_RgEkilvtFKS-_R1rVnsyVyCfygvSnGyntiNsxEwXyzSK6UCwwVbiZ9yL5B2MOHet/s320/IMG_1104.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> The Book Dragon has finished Corinna Turner's expanded <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08P81RL1Q" target="_blank">A Very Jurassic Christmas</a> novella and gives it five rip-roaring claws!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My review: I had read the original short story version in the Catholic Teen Book anthology <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Visible-Invisible-Susan-Peek-ebook/dp/B07YK7PSW6" target="_blank">Gifts: Visible and Invisible</a> and wondered what happened next to the wonderful characters Ms. Turner has created in her dystopian, dinosaur-filled series. I'm glad she decided to expand the story into a longer novella. The additional adventures of hunter Joshua and his Uncle Z and the parallel adventures of brave farm kids Darryl and her brother Harry (and their Dad) are connected by a very brave traveling priest and a horrific winter storm reminiscent of our Texas polar vortex in February 2021. Just reading those sections made me shiver! If you haven't read any of this fantastic adventure series, I highly recommend it (especially if you're a lifelong dinophile like I am). You can also learn more about the author and her other books and series at <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/corinna-turner" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-69964162725746193242021-03-08T02:00:00.001-08:002021-03-08T02:00:03.225-08:00Monday Book Review by the Book Dragon: Excellent Christian cozy mystery, first in a new series!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqkIrwFJxoZPpAQSsl0x7cORNvEmaDhQRJppPjHDAGkb6w54WAxpC_QehSiWMqqOBLjjisD_09qYsWdjSF4GRjCZhNmxfe96wSmZzd0DX4sn8cLXUYoQmBMjjdNPK8OP-t7SfwINlZHnA/s2016/IMG_0985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqkIrwFJxoZPpAQSsl0x7cORNvEmaDhQRJppPjHDAGkb6w54WAxpC_QehSiWMqqOBLjjisD_09qYsWdjSF4GRjCZhNmxfe96wSmZzd0DX4sn8cLXUYoQmBMjjdNPK8OP-t7SfwINlZHnA/s320/IMG_0985.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Book Dragon has finished <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VS5V1F1" target="_blank">Word Has It</a> by Julie B. Cosgrove and gives it 5 rip-roaring claws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div>My review: I've read several cozies by this author, and I have to say, Ms. Cosgrove has made me a cozy mystery fan! This first book in a new series is her best one yet!<p></p><p>The MC Wanda, a very active widow living in a small Texas town, is loveable and very human, but she always means well. She has a reputation for being nosy and jumping to conclusions, but after a burglary in a nearby city is convinced her sleepy little town needs a neighborhood watch program, especially when several suspicious goings-on point to the possibility that the burglars are hiding out right under their noses!</p><p>Complicating the situation is Wanda's beloved nephew Todd, who is a rookie cop in town. Their close relationship is threatened by Todd's concern that Wanda's meddling will either get him fired or get her in serious trouble. There are many fun and relatable characters, including Wanda's best friend and many other townspeople. Even with all the names, it was easy to keep them straight because the author has done such a great job of making each one memorable!</p><p>The title comes from the shared love of Scrabble that Wanda and Todd share, and the initial game in which they play several apparently unrelated words that turn out to be clues to the mystery of the burglars. I love the use of a Scrabble tile for the scene breaks! And most of all, I loved the slice of small town life which made me homesick (in a good way) for the one I had to leave behind.</p><p>If you are a fan of cozy mysteries, Scrabble, or just enjoy a good read with characters who will become new friends, check out Word Has It! Though it's a standalone novel, the author has left room for further adventures of Wanda and her friends in the new neighborhood watch program. As a bonus, there are recipes included from the tea party that had to be cancelled. I hope there will be another opportunity for the widowed friends to have their party!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-57664201432390471962021-03-01T01:00:00.001-08:002021-03-01T01:00:02.183-08:00Monday Book Review by the Book Dragon: Suspenseful short story for dinosaur lovers of all ages!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5Bvhi6Z02IhtfgVkN8oq8do1NBReEb6B_yEXIlJp3ZvnsOOZ8UlKgr29IG7l0fGHCHSSSM028nzKHQJwDE_oXrmTiCL9mjfjJiNk2Ut9CE0q-Fz3i2X9ykvRUzioU6ZlZwMd5SDCGdeO/s320/IMG_0984.jpg" width="320" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Book Dragon has read Corinna Turner's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08PZGLT9Y" target="_blank">A Dino Whisperer at the Zoo</a> and gives it a roaring five claws!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div>My review: Wow! I love this short story addition to Ms. Turner's fantastic Spark! universe. It was compelling and suspenseful, but touching in unexpected ways. This story officially made Joshua, the teen hunter living "unSparked" (outside protective fences) in a dystopian world, my favorite character in the series. If you haven't read any of this series yet, either this or A Very Jurassic Christmas (a novella which happens prior to this story and gives a little background on one of the dinos) would be a great place to start. No matter which installment you read first, if you liked Crichton's Jurassic Park (or have been a lifelong dino nerd like I have), you HAVE to read this wonderful series!!!<div><br /></div><div>You can find more of Corinna Turner's must-read books at <a href="https://www.catholicteenbooks.com/corinna-turner" target="_blank">Catholic Teen Books</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-48777176040951482092020-11-30T00:00:00.011-08:002020-11-30T00:00:02.076-08:00The 10 best books I read in 2020 (plus 2 honorable mentions)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRFHsPmOQeaqfrtz1loxC0U-ofWhFaxxpgVZD_SuUrH8gIB6hbKj7emh05WU_ifiav_a5shpJFZVRM3V9OOcoevswfudpdTOeNBrGHrtbZ36AGkAqFairLtRVILolsMQvgdxAjh5g9Eb0/s1920/prague-980732_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRFHsPmOQeaqfrtz1loxC0U-ofWhFaxxpgVZD_SuUrH8gIB6hbKj7emh05WU_ifiav_a5shpJFZVRM3V9OOcoevswfudpdTOeNBrGHrtbZ36AGkAqFairLtRVILolsMQvgdxAjh5g9Eb0/s320/prague-980732_1920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A library in Prague we'd planned to see, but everything shut down the second day of our eight day trip in March that turned into three weeks! (Image by izoca from Pixabay)</div><p></p><p>What a crazy year 2020 has been! I'm amazed I was able to read as many books as I did. I met my Goodreads goal of 60, only because GR lets you count "did not finish" books, of which there were several. I don't know if it was trouble concentrating or the stories just "hit" me the wrong way, but it still makes me sad when I can't finish a book, especially ones that seem to hold promise! Despite those few, I had a terrible time narrowing down my top 10 this year. As you will see, THREE authors (my new favorites) each had two books make the list! And, because I simply could not eliminate them, I have TWO honorable mentions, because stories that totally immerse me and make me fall in love with new fictional friends are very deserving of a mention!</p><p>So, I'll begin with the honorable mentions:</p><p>HM: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08BCTBRRT" target="_blank">Three Last Things: or The Hounding of Carl Jarrold, Soulless Assassin</a> by Corinna Turner</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyh96XDprwehZsgT1dTb5yxpD5K3AsO37Bx6mCu4alRFqlccJ9zRtge91ATKa_JEoh2b4wMDQ4QK_wWy9mdSWN04CyfZzgD1jY4RMcbYRpvyfjFYkeE6q07WiKINELaj_iYC7cI1NxapQ/s500/CTB+3+last+things.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyh96XDprwehZsgT1dTb5yxpD5K3AsO37Bx6mCu4alRFqlccJ9zRtge91ATKa_JEoh2b4wMDQ4QK_wWy9mdSWN04CyfZzgD1jY4RMcbYRpvyfjFYkeE6q07WiKINELaj_iYC7cI1NxapQ/s320/CTB+3+last+things.jpg" /></a></div><p>Ms. Turner has become one of my top fav authors of all time. She is an incredible wordsmith who knows how to craft a story that grabs you by the throat and changes your heart simultaneously! This one was heart-stopping suspense, soul-changing, and completely unforgettable. Don't miss this novella, and don't let the fact that it takes place on death row put you off!</p><p>HM: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Always-Christmas-Book-Club-ebook/dp/B08L5MT7YR" target="_blank">Joy (Always Christmas Book Club 1)</a> by Jessica L. Elliott</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3Akk5lJ_8OuAFye33rt0KwIWbEc-Y0JIoLxGZJ4fFsi5cAMJEgnmIPY6XYio3nGOyc_BIt0KZy1LVbGs70JnUmSz6BN2EzLuhKWLkXoyRXxqzlRV_BweOWGaRmLbLoxZRNhuuOW9wYDS/s500/2020+Joy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="319" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3Akk5lJ_8OuAFye33rt0KwIWbEc-Y0JIoLxGZJ4fFsi5cAMJEgnmIPY6XYio3nGOyc_BIt0KZy1LVbGs70JnUmSz6BN2EzLuhKWLkXoyRXxqzlRV_BweOWGaRmLbLoxZRNhuuOW9wYDS/s320/2020+Joy.jpg" /></a></div><p>At the other end of the spectrum, this is a sweet, feel-good, heartwarming Christmas romance. I was skeptical of the "marriage of convenience" in the modern world trope, but the characters are so wonderfully real, I fell in love with them and completely immersed myself in their story. It's such a great Christmas read, I'm going to read it every year so I can revisit all the warm fuzzies.</p><p>#10: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Girl-Firethorn-Chronicles-Book-ebook/dp/B076XPL7BW" target="_blank">The Red Dragon Girl</a> by Lea Doue</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FoKSXq4kznl0Nqjz2NuPZKlz83vwERg5U5W-YiY4xI6FYwJ_fElSHPRpkKE-KcO5-EsIyeq1kIBtt6wS1L20IrYvinkADoB7b8Dgf_eR52aH2b5uwbkMywy4J53HO7efVkG7B7Yh9Xxr/s500/2020+Red+Dragon+Girl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="313" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4FoKSXq4kznl0Nqjz2NuPZKlz83vwERg5U5W-YiY4xI6FYwJ_fElSHPRpkKE-KcO5-EsIyeq1kIBtt6wS1L20IrYvinkADoB7b8Dgf_eR52aH2b5uwbkMywy4J53HO7efVkG7B7Yh9Xxr/s320/2020+Red+Dragon+Girl.jpg" /></a></div><p>This is the third book of Doue's excellent Firethorn Chronicles fantasy series (my favorite so far) and is so well-written, it can stand alone. Princess Melantha is such a wonderful MC, and I loved the dragons!</p><p>#9: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Edens-Sake-T-M-Gaouette-ebook/dp/B07X13Q1G9" target="_blank">For Eden's Sake</a> by T. M. Gaouette</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOE0gOURTpnccc709W_wQeKUy_qflFry7d5mWFMuqTSq0_JLmvcOa_DVC_y32m68hXsGEom06hNWZ52YgnWBPXieM_LeYzyOTUVmufCWDlZOvy2MHXZZchRtfsRho6dVFwZdi4_HATwiAB/s500/CTB+Eden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOE0gOURTpnccc709W_wQeKUy_qflFry7d5mWFMuqTSq0_JLmvcOa_DVC_y32m68hXsGEom06hNWZ52YgnWBPXieM_LeYzyOTUVmufCWDlZOvy2MHXZZchRtfsRho6dVFwZdi4_HATwiAB/s320/CTB+Eden.jpg" /></a></div><p>I didn't think I would like this story, but it is powerfully pro-life, and the MC is hugely sympathetic. One reason it made this list is because I keep thinking about it, months after reading it. It's just that good!</p><p>#8: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Leaf-Alone-Relatively-Seeking-Book-ebook/dp/B0848DR2CG" target="_blank">Leaf Me Alone (Relatively Seeking Book 3)</a> by Julie B. Cosgrove</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5QXlBM5GCzQf61lAnjthwLPBcNZwcsoMBTenETkbM_UxSTk5QveiPTXlqJTzHgzf9iKGaOw_gqd44zqoi6l_t65nxnOJJPU3_FCXZQB7PEiYtwfyDEMvmc-92UQbnNGex2_jFdA1lw3N/s500/2020+Leaf+Me+Alone.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="334" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5QXlBM5GCzQf61lAnjthwLPBcNZwcsoMBTenETkbM_UxSTk5QveiPTXlqJTzHgzf9iKGaOw_gqd44zqoi6l_t65nxnOJJPU3_FCXZQB7PEiYtwfyDEMvmc-92UQbnNGex2_jFdA1lw3N/s320/2020+Leaf+Me+Alone.jpg" /></a></div><p>I've read several of Ms. Cosgrove's cozy mysteries, but this is my favorite so far! She combines genealogy with a mystery uncovering family secrets, and her married team of sleuths stole my heart!</p><p>#7: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Vasilisa-Hearth-Bard-Tales-Book-ebook/dp/B082VKVMJB" target="_blank">Vasilisa (Hearth and Bard Tales Book 1)</a> by M. L. Farb</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYr_S5YVvb_jML_2wZAoqt8kw_kYxz8yFjxUsfkkNpaOYGB6lk7TiA_HOU0KzEZSIjsfFF5G5VpxrxhlhiNKL2-HyTbbsoEadMi93xnWvqQ5I1AxEc8UP05DU3SJ80rQY-G3f6Bx5YNBC/s500/2020+Vasilisa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYr_S5YVvb_jML_2wZAoqt8kw_kYxz8yFjxUsfkkNpaOYGB6lk7TiA_HOU0KzEZSIjsfFF5G5VpxrxhlhiNKL2-HyTbbsoEadMi93xnWvqQ5I1AxEc8UP05DU3SJ80rQY-G3f6Bx5YNBC/s320/2020+Vasilisa.jpg" /></a></div><p>I was familiar with the name from Russian folklore, but Ms. Farb has written an original historical fairy tale that is un-put-downable! I was totally immersed in this world and loved how Vasilisa is portrayed!</p><p>#6: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/What-Truly-Matters-Pamela-Sharp-ebook/dp/B08BJDVH53" target="_blank">What Truly Matters</a> by Pamela Sharp</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKjjGq3PPyAZczDd8tsZB6SAUkgC_OezwyXAm3SbMltcyR7wfu32wg9M25HGwyB5W3u1nJDwIrgpC5ImRrjLkk4FeMXEMWStZmuOoD7jYFQkmVxJ2b-NYwmYfLrdBBpo8AgsHI-qGejCN/s2048/What+Truly++Matters+300.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKjjGq3PPyAZczDd8tsZB6SAUkgC_OezwyXAm3SbMltcyR7wfu32wg9M25HGwyB5W3u1nJDwIrgpC5ImRrjLkk4FeMXEMWStZmuOoD7jYFQkmVxJ2b-NYwmYfLrdBBpo8AgsHI-qGejCN/s320/What+Truly++Matters+300.jpg" /></a></div><p>This is compelling historical family drama, sequel to a book higher on this list. While it's possible to read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading book 1 first. The characters alone are worth it, but it's also fascinating how the author wove the story around actual historical events, completely grounding the time and place.</p><p>#5: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Three-Most-Wanted-Margaret-Book-ebook/dp/B011SMOPOA" target="_blank">The Three Most Wanted</a> by Corinna Turner</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSkeHf7sr0aH2hHNuEw_MK2b0lYRhACX-60HsJT_LnuUovtjA3MjgFRFijFkYAVvZLbc_fIIzzj2_KtTCj0RnCxrDWcwVkhyphenhyphenMEFJLcgJNUVzMxP7k1gsksYku5iH7v8TD9ezLp6I1ZvKQ/s500/CTB+3+most+wanted.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="318" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSkeHf7sr0aH2hHNuEw_MK2b0lYRhACX-60HsJT_LnuUovtjA3MjgFRFijFkYAVvZLbc_fIIzzj2_KtTCj0RnCxrDWcwVkhyphenhyphenMEFJLcgJNUVzMxP7k1gsksYku5iH7v8TD9ezLp6I1ZvKQ/s320/CTB+3+most+wanted.jpg" /></a></div><p>Here's Ms. Turner's second book on my list, which is the second in her powerful dystopian series (the first book,<i> I Am Margaret</i>, was on Book Dragon's top 10 last year). This installment is just as nail-biting and personal as the first book, with unexpected twists and turns that literally kept me on the edge my seat!</p><p>#4: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Shadow-King-Trials-Book-ebook/dp/B082H32B9T" target="_blank">The King's Shadow</a> by M. L. Farb</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYY8Ujzh9cLHVXFQv24QRypdL97fGjo2wonm-f6_OfVxHPTHhCE3fA9qeXRxETIxAwiJq55TGfNWuTubLCSt0DrhyphenhyphenQKDpQB6tlU1IZXWa2jH3GAi3J9zIfhEzP_lwzynYggQyOG1SzsWl7/s500/2020+King%2527s+Shadow.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYY8Ujzh9cLHVXFQv24QRypdL97fGjo2wonm-f6_OfVxHPTHhCE3fA9qeXRxETIxAwiJq55TGfNWuTubLCSt0DrhyphenhyphenQKDpQB6tlU1IZXWa2jH3GAi3J9zIfhEzP_lwzynYggQyOG1SzsWl7/s320/2020+King%2527s+Shadow.jpg" /></a></div><p>This is the sequel to <i>The King's Trial</i>, which made Book Dragon's top ten last year and established M. L. Farb as one of my new favorite authors! This epic story continues in the realistic and gritty fantasy world Farb has created with her heroic characters rising to new heights and other characters causing appropriate mayhem.</p><p>#3: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Traitors-Legendary-Magic-Book-ebook" target="_blank">Blood Traitors</a> by Stella Dorthwany</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiYk8gwY8RlMhPgfxL9-hiCv1UBTXG71HWyH3RUqy35kdlIFmi2-CvQCDbElnx00TIJjZKTd0woxVuQfDD5JEVUjBudtva0AEunFbV5WeLFklyatz5hhmpZyGkdWrFiZFw4NegC0_4iVc/s500/2020+Blood+Traitors.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEiYk8gwY8RlMhPgfxL9-hiCv1UBTXG71HWyH3RUqy35kdlIFmi2-CvQCDbElnx00TIJjZKTd0woxVuQfDD5JEVUjBudtva0AEunFbV5WeLFklyatz5hhmpZyGkdWrFiZFw4NegC0_4iVc/s320/2020+Blood+Traitors.jpg" /></a></div><p>This is the sequel to Dorthwany's <i>Sand and Storm</i>, which made Book Dragon's top ten last year. Though we continue the journey with some of the realistic characters introduced there, this story has a completely different flavor, with intrigue, danger, a magical "game" even more wild and crazy than Quidditch, and secrets galore! What a fun romp!</p><p>#2:<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Double-Agents-Service-Annals-Alasia-ebook/dp/B088K2733J" target="_blank"> In the Double Agent's Service</a> by Annie Douglass Lima</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXiEXuag_KHQS3SdHdRJMWjacXjYRXhbqqNl09M-lMp4YWIUNKeWvlnRvt-TMNtc4-UGHi8z8YutbFnrrVFht0UJgt8N46IB8eL7o7WIMmnARjpOduKjBFmqX1ajPmYDlNNP6Wz2GQDil/s500/2020+In+Double+Agent+Service.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXiEXuag_KHQS3SdHdRJMWjacXjYRXhbqqNl09M-lMp4YWIUNKeWvlnRvt-TMNtc4-UGHi8z8YutbFnrrVFht0UJgt8N46IB8eL7o7WIMmnARjpOduKjBFmqX1ajPmYDlNNP6Wz2GQDil/s320/2020+In+Double+Agent+Service.jpg" /></a></div><p>Lima has been one of my favorite authors since she began this Alasia fantasy series several years ago, and this new installment is one of my favorites! Just when I think Lima has covered all the bases in her realistic world, she mines new and exciting storylines. Eric and Anya have been encountered in previous books, but they are front and center in this story, with amazing results! It's the most unusual love story ever written, along with heart-pounding danger.</p><p>#1: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082P8PTQG" target="_blank">Because That's What Families Do</a> by Pamela Sharp</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKexMLmgx3Vrr_PmQ_UjiNpK2hj7Vio29tHYh6w1JyEpH3FF7jhN2VjnZZqNnjTlS_iuyvNT-RoLlkI5zJtIBvk_A1UaCE462ggTxzUgH6addipgqZJRK6w2O0z4YBK0ZvfgqGHRQkUaHJ/s2048/Because+That%2527s+What+Families+Do.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKexMLmgx3Vrr_PmQ_UjiNpK2hj7Vio29tHYh6w1JyEpH3FF7jhN2VjnZZqNnjTlS_iuyvNT-RoLlkI5zJtIBvk_A1UaCE462ggTxzUgH6addipgqZJRK6w2O0z4YBK0ZvfgqGHRQkUaHJ/s320/Because+That%2527s+What+Families+Do.jpg" /></a></div><p>This generational family saga set post-World War 2 is a masterpiece of the human condition, specifically how families interact during times of crisis and upheaval. I'd put this book in the same masterpiece category as the works of John Jakes! The characters in this story have stolen my heart forever.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-31666429740701932262020-11-16T12:27:00.000-08:002020-11-16T12:27:16.452-08:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Wonderful sweet Christmas romance!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxx-15gINgx-YCrGrQIyHjUv5InYaX5SZCevEI0TpGsC5I7e6eRM7ctQbz6-mtw-534wxaMZB3m2WtkWdiWPwLgFSOc5eyx29cINmTvv6C4qEfD8JhSdY564v9JgWweDFYm7c5fkpf12-i/s2016/IMG_0686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxx-15gINgx-YCrGrQIyHjUv5InYaX5SZCevEI0TpGsC5I7e6eRM7ctQbz6-mtw-534wxaMZB3m2WtkWdiWPwLgFSOc5eyx29cINmTvv6C4qEfD8JhSdY564v9JgWweDFYm7c5fkpf12-i/s320/IMG_0686.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Always-Christmas-Book-Club-ebook/dp/B08L5MT7YR" target="_blank">Joy (Always Christmas Book Club 1)</a> by Jessica L. Elliott and gives it 5 claws!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div>My review: This is a wonderful sweet Christmas romance! The MCs completely stole my heart! I did not expect to fall in love with this story, since "a marriage of convenience" in the modern world seems a stretch, but this story was so full of love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, and family, immersing myself in it was every bit as satisfying as sipping on hot chocolate while sitting next to a beautiful Christmas tree, listening to my favorite Christmas songs. I will be reading this every Christmas as a new holiday tradition!<br /><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-87765839903324719392020-10-26T02:00:00.001-07:002020-10-26T02:00:05.663-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A beautifully written original fairy tale for all ages!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxBmSvFJ5oiDVPHfotmd9S-FckOusIqnFuuyoQiAzKBCdfKz9d2qCdeifZRajuSpkb5-d89ISny2LBzb6J-fPXMXgsJSIyhkYzawg2vEvVo_o8a6mI8HbPfqNeWpPB4J0SpQ4mmGDWdOH/s2016/IMG_0549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidxBmSvFJ5oiDVPHfotmd9S-FckOusIqnFuuyoQiAzKBCdfKz9d2qCdeifZRajuSpkb5-d89ISny2LBzb6J-fPXMXgsJSIyhkYzawg2vEvVo_o8a6mI8HbPfqNeWpPB4J0SpQ4mmGDWdOH/s320/IMG_0549.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Fae-Jenelle-Leanne-Schmidt-ebook/dp/B089654VWC" target="_blank">An Echo of the Fae</a> by Jenelle L. Schmidt and gives it 5 claws!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/w269-h286/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="269" /></a></div><p>My review: This is a lovely, lyrical fantasy quest story that begins quietly but with a strong undercurrent of mystery. Then the almost 13-year-old heroine is faced with life-changing choices and must reach into the deepest corners of her soul to find courage and perseverance in overcoming the obstacles to the object of her quest.</p><p>It's difficult to write a review without spoilers. This story is uplifting and family-friendly in so many ways, a true "noblebright" fantasy tale! I encourage readers of all ages who like original fairy tales, selkies, the realm of fae, portals into other worlds, dragons, and magic to read this jewel! It's one of the best stories I've read this year.</p><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-56982698127742905862020-10-19T02:00:00.006-07:002020-10-19T02:00:02.453-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: An imaginative sort-of Cinderella retelling<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHVMy31QSb7DCfKOip4IVpuXvRaPTJki7XgG_86nggqiPea6Keq92aL8bTYrA6xf_0_SoDiYknsKS0NwLa3F0hQ1rhmNUQX87301sRMDqQjGL1Bcykd5HdVACOKYMOgd8r1lqwY8JOmK6/s2016/IMG_0547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHVMy31QSb7DCfKOip4IVpuXvRaPTJki7XgG_86nggqiPea6Keq92aL8bTYrA6xf_0_SoDiYknsKS0NwLa3F0hQ1rhmNUQX87301sRMDqQjGL1Bcykd5HdVACOKYMOgd8r1lqwY8JOmK6/s320/IMG_0547.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>The Book Dragon has finished <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08CZZFKKX" target="_blank">Ashen</a> by H. L. Burke and gives it 5 claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div><p>My review: 4.5 stars for an imaginative world populated by memorable characters, especially the mysterious heroine Lizbete with skin the color of ash and a constant need for warmth. Burke is so good at writing stories about scrappy young female protagonists, and this one is hard to put down! It's difficult to write a review without spoilers, but if you like magic, mystery, and romance, you must read this book! It's fun to see the Cinderella tropes reimagined, but mostly it's a journey of discovery for Lizbete, her few friends, and the many who fear or distrust her. The climax is amazing! And I'm still puzzling over how Burke wrote temperature so well--I felt a chill in some places and began to sweat in others. Bravo!</p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-46949247562357379012020-10-05T02:00:00.001-07:002020-10-05T02:00:08.323-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A dark and deep fantasy with a strong heroine<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q-gNwfqDtwbNUznn5YH45xJbXPBC-nm2yedX45UdLsZJ6e7mXBzKEztN1a3En7ToLHrz156LVGVfzAf2i6u-D-97QR1b4dNQ5egfApeKW0urwKKFeboKgB2PiAeBRzAA7aDynpibNhdO/s2016/IMG_0316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q-gNwfqDtwbNUznn5YH45xJbXPBC-nm2yedX45UdLsZJ6e7mXBzKEztN1a3En7ToLHrz156LVGVfzAf2i6u-D-97QR1b4dNQ5egfApeKW0urwKKFeboKgB2PiAeBRzAA7aDynpibNhdO/s320/IMG_0316.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Thorn-Intisar-Khanani-ebook/dp/B078R3PYY7" target="_blank">Thorn</a> by Intisar Khanani and gives it 4 claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/s1600/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1331" data-original-width="1600" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/w328-h273/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><p>My review: This is a fantasy that immersed me in another time and culture with rich details. The characters were living and breathing, and there was an element of mystery as well as magic. The title character was relatable and sympathetic, and some of the minor characters stole my heart. The story is deep and dark and at times very uncomfortable; it makes the reader think about justice and mercy, vengeance and forgiveness. There is minor language and are some disturbing situations that might give a young or tender-hearted reader nightmares. I'd recommend for ages 17 and up.</p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-88693525739075042562020-09-28T02:00:00.001-07:002020-09-28T02:00:06.801-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A suspenseful, action-packed shifter story<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2PFLpfMJqZ9RtXn3fIyWu4yXRp0avv2cDn6KjoYV9oSVy9bqLx-r8EL9mMY8z31fvaYlzss6RhjN8LHleE_YMrAN7_XzELVxWfz_GuipPqVkozeSyx-iANPkCQv83AhimIxq3ymWPGOA/s2016/IMG_0315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2PFLpfMJqZ9RtXn3fIyWu4yXRp0avv2cDn6KjoYV9oSVy9bqLx-r8EL9mMY8z31fvaYlzss6RhjN8LHleE_YMrAN7_XzELVxWfz_GuipPqVkozeSyx-iANPkCQv83AhimIxq3ymWPGOA/s320/IMG_0315.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Book Dragon has finished Sarah Ashwood's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08GPL9P98" target="_blank">Ashes on the Earth</a> (Book 1 in the new Stones of Fire series) and gives it 5 claws!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" /></a></div><p>My review: 4.5 stars for a vivid, suspenseful story with two flawed yet sympathetic main characters. I don't normally read urban fantasy because so much of it is hopelessly dark, and this one has its moments of darkness (and even bits of hopelessness). Overall, the female lead (Ellie) is idealistic, caring, self-sacrificing, and realistically religious, so even with the death and destruction she unwittingly falls into after saving a child's life, she still has a loving family waiting for her and faith to carry her through the fire. (Since the child's father is a different kind of "mob" boss.) Carter, the male lead, is more worldly and cynical, but he's a few years older than Ellie and has lived for twenty years in a world she (and most humans) never knew existed--shifters. The forms they take run the gamut of world mythology, and since Carter is half-Greek, his form is something from Greek mythology. Though Carter tries to keep a tough facade, his integrity, loyalty, and protectiveness comes through strongly.. </p><p>There are two scenes of brutal violence, and though not graphic, might be upsetting to a young or tender-hearted reader. With the violence, some sexual tension between Ellie and Carter (but nothing inappropriate happens), and some mild language, I'd rate this book PG-13. There is a cliffhanger ending, and at the end the author has promised three more books in the series, so readers will eventually find out what happened! I'd call this book Bogart and Bacall with monsters.</p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-28679798970159200422020-08-31T02:00:00.001-07:002020-08-31T02:00:02.634-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Nail-biting, suspenseful stand-alone fantasy with cool magic!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ81oiYpIeD0u6XR89rrn1eJyq8NVt58dbvf4F8vncreDq-KjNrNHGX_x7MbmobYTEVp-te3QgTwmTv7U0Vlw6mXDEbGnUs3MWhtKT3kruM3NsxRCCLV7OYdWzPKX7I1mD-L0_6vkbPPT8/s2016/IMG_0249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ81oiYpIeD0u6XR89rrn1eJyq8NVt58dbvf4F8vncreDq-KjNrNHGX_x7MbmobYTEVp-te3QgTwmTv7U0Vlw6mXDEbGnUs3MWhtKT3kruM3NsxRCCLV7OYdWzPKX7I1mD-L0_6vkbPPT8/w512-h384/IMG_0249.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07J1DM9JD" target="_blank">Blood Traitor</a> (Legendary Magic #2) by Stella Dorthwany and gives it 5 enthusiastic claws!!!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/w385-h410/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="385" /></a></div><p>My review: Oh, my heart! Last year I'd read and enjoyed the author's first book in this series (<a href="https://katyhuthjones.blogspot.com/2019/08/monday-review-by-book-dragon-dune-meets.html" target="_blank">Sand and Storm</a>) and didn't think I'd enjoy this one as much, but it was even better! The predicaments of cousins Cora and Faryn actually made me anxious at several points in the story (like, HOW are they going to survive THIS?) and the problems in their respective love lives did not detract from the nonstop danger and intrigue. If anything, it made this reader even more sympathetic to their plights! Kudos to the author for her deft hand at mystery. I kept guessing wrongly who the main baddie was....until he showed up and it made perfect sense. There are few books that are so engrossing as to make one lose track of time, put off needed chores, and lose sleep, but this is definitely one of them! If you like magical fantasy with engaging characters (even the minor ones) and a setting so realistic you can feel glitter between your fingers and smell the fresh blood (there are blood mages, after all, but there's nothing graphic--more kudos to the author), then I highly recommend this one! Even though it's the second in a series, it can stand alone.</p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-21993455265211284922020-08-24T07:23:00.001-07:002020-08-24T07:23:56.097-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Plot-driven epic fantasy<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_hsmZzewJDbI2_XRCp-22jxiCD58rJiKvWARjlhRDA4xxyAzIbQ4YGlQTWpzUiKZ4c3_40D52vIWKWaejYqZXySQP4jKmBp6SqzVZIvsqdd0V1G2vO7IavBC1G1BERVpCKNs35FnFnVd/s2016/IMG_0242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_hsmZzewJDbI2_XRCp-22jxiCD58rJiKvWARjlhRDA4xxyAzIbQ4YGlQTWpzUiKZ4c3_40D52vIWKWaejYqZXySQP4jKmBp6SqzVZIvsqdd0V1G2vO7IavBC1G1BERVpCKNs35FnFnVd/w410-h307/IMG_0242.jpg" width="410" /></a></p><p>The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dragons-Truth-Leanne-Pankuch-ebook/dp/B07NPW2BX9" target="_blank">Dragon's Truth</a> by Leanne M. Pankuch and gives it 4 claws!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/s1600/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1331" data-original-width="1600" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/w328-h273/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My review: This plot-driven epic fantasy is well-written with extensive world-building. I kept wanting the pace to slow just a bit to better know the characters, because some of them sounded like they could be very interesting. With such a large cast, it's harder to see them as individuals and feel empathy with them. Other than that disappointment, I recommend this book for fantasy lovers of all ages.</div><p><br /></p>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-43132861735161253182020-08-10T04:00:00.000-07:002020-08-10T04:00:02.139-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A contemporary YA with memorable characters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3z7F1Wp0eBm4D0l2WsyNxyjgSt0y-l90kcFDY2PiGg_q48n9jLi2smAp_2jtZE9xuqQP1xVUUIprslU_-Q842EWFU-t0VI3E7QNeveLFjjY0TZoPRSfYe_pA8ZoYhL7m8uxOKUxEVHlV/s1600/IMG_0113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3z7F1Wp0eBm4D0l2WsyNxyjgSt0y-l90kcFDY2PiGg_q48n9jLi2smAp_2jtZE9xuqQP1xVUUIprslU_-Q842EWFU-t0VI3E7QNeveLFjjY0TZoPRSfYe_pA8ZoYhL7m8uxOKUxEVHlV/s320/IMG_0113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Book Dragon has read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Freeing-Tanner-Rose-Faith-Kung-ebook/dp/B06XB3ZBF8" target="_blank">Freeing Tanner Rose</a> (Book 1 in the Faith and Kung Fu series) by T. M. Gaouette and gives it 4 claws!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/s1600/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1331" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikc-ShBhYUOWf3iwQHopR4FotlDu_F1NUhJKdDX8Q5BoMwg92B6Zx1BiSpCMMs7OdJnY4hFVqYBs-9VHZctr0H7pUrn1040axdAINQzdx2-xUbiDPHida204jvQrC3i63ytmitdbZJci24/s320/Book+Dragon+4+claws.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My review: I should preface this review by saying I don't read a lot of contemporary YA, so the few things I didn't enjoy about this story might be the things an avid reader of this genre loves. What I did love about this story was the character of Gabriel, a quiet young man who deals with the struggles of life in two powerful ways: martial arts and his strong faith in God. His quiet country life with his mother and a small circle of Christian friends is upended when the younger daughter of his mother's former college roommate comes to stay with them. She is Tanner Rose, a fourteen yo "celebrity" of film and TV who already has problems with substance abuse due to her partying ways.<br />
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If Tanner's situation wasn't so horrifying to this mother of sons, I might have better enjoyed the sometimes comical ways she interacts with Gabriel, his mom, and their friends (like wearing white jeans and high heels to a campout). She's like a fish out of water, a very unlikable fish. But Gabriel and his mother are patient with Tanner and not only demonstrate their faith, but show the troubled girl caring and compassion like she's never before experienced.<br />
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There's not only a good story here but a great message. I would strongly encourage younger teens to read this with a parent (or at least have discussions about what happens in the story). Alcoholism, drug abuse, immodesty, and the partying life of a celebrity are shown, but never as a positive thing.Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439909501169613665.post-20116305614206689552020-08-03T04:00:00.000-07:002020-08-03T04:00:06.395-07:00Monday Review by the Book Dragon: Suspenseful installment in a dinosaur dystopian series!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1deZ22Fclby_tA8UmbyFcmB3sokCt_Obb6CZkrOOBY-3Fnw-6oer-C_zb0AyDN6HoAz0rTJnjoNSSNuPuqAeCxxpS78_RKBXnzGJJwXGNr84dvJsTiO_HEaWIJ_NSHR-ye0yUYlnGIGc0/s1600/IMG_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1deZ22Fclby_tA8UmbyFcmB3sokCt_Obb6CZkrOOBY-3Fnw-6oer-C_zb0AyDN6HoAz0rTJnjoNSSNuPuqAeCxxpS78_RKBXnzGJJwXGNr84dvJsTiO_HEaWIJ_NSHR-ye0yUYlnGIGc0/s320/IMG_0088.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Book Dragon has read Corinna Turner's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Farmgirls-Die-Cages-unSPARKed-Book-ebook/dp/B088KRF1K8" target="_blank">Farmgirls Die in Cages</a> (#4 in the unSPARKed series) and gives it 5 claws!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s1600/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOsDgYoTbzuCAHfo6OmoDB8XG1jCcC1-v1cr44-2Hb-pgCkzAM8qmmKP_kbPECQQxYebJJcOBDgnNNNgEZmd7UTDL_KWEdIf4CycW9opXJIiwlpuAxiX3kTiE_fNzaIb9dZ_yvyDkqvVC3/s320/Book+Dragon+5+claws.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
My review: Turner has done it again and written another suspenseful episode in the exciting future world of humans and dinosaurs living together. Darryl and her younger brother Harry go "from the frying pan into the fire" as their lives become more complicated. Thankfully the young hunter Joshua is willing to help them escape from a new predicament. As always, this episode ends on a cliffhanger, but I've come to accept that in this series because its SO good! Recommended for dino enthusiasts of any age, but you'll definitely want to start at the beginning with <a href="https://katyhuthjones.blogspot.com/2019/05/monday-review-by-book-dragon-nail.html" target="_blank">Drive!</a>Katy Huth Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17070461471031851970noreply@blogger.com0