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Thistle in the Mistletoe, A Christmas Companion to Stones of Iona Series
Margaret Izard’s Thistle in the Mistletoe opens with a gripping start. Mary Comyn, thrust into an arranged marriage with Lord Roderick, the formidable leader of a rival clan. In a matter of pages, the reader is plunged into the heart of Mary’s journey. Now living among her supposed enemies in the MacDougall stronghold, Mary grapples with feeling like a pawn, though she strives to embrace her new role as Lady of the clan. As the festive season approaches, Mary is determined to bring warmth and grace to her new household, even as tensions simmer beneath the surface. Yet, as days unfold, she begins to question the stories she’s been told about her new husband. Could Roderick be far different from the ruthless figure her father had painted him to be? Despite the looming threat of war, Mary dares to hope for happiness in a place she never imagined she could call home.
The novel’s brisk beginning ensures readers are immediately swept into the plot, with Mary and Roderick’s marriage unfolding in the first chapter. From there, Izard crafts a captivating, holiday-themed romance set against the rugged, breathtaking backdrop of historical Scotland. The moderate pace keeps readers engaged throughout the book, blending romance, political intrigue, and character development. Minor obstacles and escalating conflicts sustain tension in every chapter, making for a well-rounded narrative with both heartwarming and heart-stopping moments. Izard’s characters are skillfully crafted, with some inspiring fierce loyalty and others evoking just as much disdain.
The story’s vivid depiction of 14th-century Scottish life, combined with the charm of a Christmas setting, makes this an enchanting read perfect for the holiday season. The beginning might feel abrupt for some readers; I feel a bit more context or background on the clans would have strengthened the emotional stakes and made the story’s start feel more anchored. Even so, the book’s conclusion—complete with a surprising twist and cliffhanger—will leave romance fans anxiously anticipating the next installment in Mary and Roderick’s unfolding love story.
Thistle in the Mistletoe is a delightful blend of romance, history, and holiday magic that captivates from start to finish. With endearing characters and a plot that keeps readers invested, this novel is a perfect escape into a world of love and high stakes. As Mary and Roderick’s journey leaves readers yearning for more, one thing is certain: this enchanting story will linger long after the last page, making it a must-read for fans of historical romance.
Pages: 278 | ASIN : B0DGLRZHC6
Stone of Lust (Stones of Iona Book 3)
Stone of Lust, the third installment in Margaret Izard’s Stones of Iona series, combines Scottish folklore, romance, and modern intrigue into a tale that’s as much about family as it is about the supernatural. The story centers around Ainslie MacDougall, a determined young woman tied to an ancient heritage and a family curse involving mystical Fae stones. Her sibling relationships, particularly with her skeptical and protective brother Colin, are tested as she steps into a larger conflict involving dangerous Fae, her family’s legacy, and a quest to safeguard those she loves. It’s a journey of survival, love, and loyalty where modern-day Scotland feels as magical and dark as any ancient legend.
Izard’s writing has a rich and cinematic quality that is full of vivid descriptions that make the Scottish highlands come alive. The opening chapters, where young Ainslie grapples with her wooden sword, reminded me of childhood dreams of bravery. Ainslie’s fierce spirit shines through in these scenes. When her brother Colin’s skepticism threatens to discourage her, she holds her ground with grit and wit. This childhood resilience defines Ainslie, and it’s one of my favorite aspects of the book. Though I loved the book, I felt some passages lingered on descriptions of the MacDougall castles, slowing the story’s pace at times, especially when it felt like the plot was building toward something urgent.
As the story unfolds, the balance between magic and realism kept me intrigued. Colin’s reluctant involvement in the family’s Fae heritage brings a grounded contrast to Ainslie’s deep-seated faith in these mystical stones and legends. Their banter provides levity to the story, especially in the family-centric scenes. Yet, when Colin encounters threats from his wife Bree’s past and sees the stones’ mystical forces at work, his character shifts. I enjoyed watching Colin’s initial dismissal of his sister’s beliefs clash with his growing desperation to protect Bree, though I felt some scenes felt heavy-handed in illustrating his inner conflict, making him seem stubborn to a fault.
One standout aspect of Stone of Lust is how Izard builds suspense. By the time Ainslie’s nightmares start crossing into reality, each encounter with the Fae feels tangible and sinister. Izard’s pacing during these moments, coupled with the mysteries surrounding the “Stone of Lust,” pulled me into a real thrill.
Stone of Lust is an engaging read for fans of folklore, romance, and suspenseful family dramas. The novel’s combination of Scottish legends, family loyalty, and an unyielding female protagonist makes it a good pick for those who appreciate a story that is as much about character as it is about magic.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0DCZVVR9T
Triumphs and Setbacks
The Path to Trust follows the leader of a secret werewolf community who has to find a way to keep his community safe when a brotherhood dedicated to hunting magical beings resurfaces and threatens everything. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
All of my books focus on overcoming challenges and show how family, love, and determination can lead to success.
In The Path to Trust, the story centers around Adam accepting his reality as a werewolf, overcoming trauma, and assuming leadership in his community, all within the context of an urban fantasy.
I aimed for the story to carry a meaningful message, inspiring people to question societal norms related to appearance and self-conception and to demonstrate that anyone, including werewolves, can be accepted and welcomed if they exist. (Or perhaps they do exist, and we just haven’t encountered one yet! 😊)
What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
The protagonist personified my childhood ideal of a hero: strong but kind, handsome but unassuming. Despite having human imperfections, his strong moral compass always guided him.
I aimed for both the main character and his companions to be authentic, allowing their triumphs and setbacks to resonate with real-life experiences.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
As an urban fantasy writer, I wanted the world to make sense, so the characters were not unrealistically powerful. I also imagined encountering one of these beings in the street and still being able to live side by side and be friends.
Most importantly, I wanted to convey the idea that being different or powerful doesn’t mean that people around are at risk, as long as there are strong morals involved.
As you can see, it’s not the conventional werewolf plot, but it goes deeper.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next book is a sequel to Adam’s life, and hopefully, his achievements can still inspire others to live better lives.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
In the secluded Irish island of Luach, a secret werewolf community thrives under Adam’s compassionate leadership. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when The Order, a long-dormant brotherhood dedicated to hunting magical beings, resurfaces and rips Adam’s life.
Faced with an unprecedented situation, Adam spirals out of control, fracturing his relationship with Kate. Despite her fears, Kate doesn’t give up on him and, with unwavering determination, fights for their love and the life they once had.
Adam has much work ahead of him. He must regain the community’s trust to wrest control of The Order and rebuild his relationship with Kate.
The Path to Trust is the second installment in the MacTire Legends series. This non-traditional young adult romance fantasy plot seamlessly blends suspense and cozy romance within the rich lore of werewolves, offering an exciting, heartfelt narrative that will put you on the edge of your seat, cheering for Adam at every turn.
The Spy Prince Of Basadesh
The Spy Prince of Bashadesh, by H.M. Heath, is a captivating fantasy romance that follows Arjun, a prince on a covert mission to save his homeland from the ruthless forces of Zorvyaka. As his country faces the brink of destruction, Arjun infiltrates the enemy’s stronghold, assuming the guise of a servant with the intention of crippling Zorvyaka from within. His mission takes an unexpected twist when he is assigned to serve the high wizard, Eldrin Glaser, the very man responsible for his nation’s suffering. As Arjun navigates the perilous world of espionage, he finds himself wrestling with conflicting loyalties. On the one hand, his duty to Bashadesh drives him forward, but on the other, he’s drawn to Eldrin, a man far more complicated than he initially believed. Their undeniable chemistry slowly shifts the dynamic between them, with Eldrin, too, feeling the pull of attraction despite their opposing roles in the brutal war. Secrets begin to unravel, and as passions ignite, both men are forced to confront the delicate balance between loyalty and the powerful connection growing between them.
What immediately hooked me about The Spy Prince of Bashadesh is its intriguing blend of spy thriller and romance. Arjun’s undercover mission creates an ongoing tension that propels the plot forward, and his evolving relationship with Eldrin keeps you eagerly turning pages. The enemies-to-lovers arc is compelling, though I did wish for a bit more sophistication in the espionage aspects. Nonetheless, the undeniable chemistry between Arjun and Eldrin stands out as one of the novel’s strengths. Their romance develops quickly but given the book’s lighter tone I think it works well within the narrative’s framework.
At its core, I think this is a YA/NA fantasy, and while the stakes are high, the prose remains accessible and easy to digest, making the book an enjoyable and brisk read. A standout element of the story is the depth of Eldrin’s character. As a wizard thrust into a position of authority because of his magical abilities, Eldrin finds himself politically sidelined. This adds a nuanced layer to the story. He and Arjun grapple with the limitations imposed on them by the war and the complex power dynamics they’re entangled in, which enriches their individual arcs.
The Spy Prince of Bashadesh excels in delivering a gripping, tension-filled romance set against a backdrop of political intrigue. Fans of LGBT fantasy will find much to enjoy, especially with the well-crafted emotional depth and the evolving relationship at the heart of the story. It’s a promising start to what could become a great series, and I’ll definitely be eager to pick up the next installment.
Page: 286 : ASIN : B0D1VN2P3V
The Path to Trust
In a world where humans and paranormal beings exist side by side, trouble is brewing. The delicate peace between them teeters on the brink, pushing unexpected partnerships into the spotlight. Trust and loyalty hang in the balance, tested to their very limits. The Path to Trust by Andrews plunges readers into the mystical Irish island of Luach. Here, a secretive werewolf community led by Adam faces an unprecedented crisis. As chaos unfolds, Adam loses his grip, and his bond with Kate begins to fray. But Kate, unwavering in her love, refuses to surrender. She’s determined to fight for the life they once cherished. Adam, now at a crossroads, must reclaim the trust of his community, defeat The Order, and mend his fractured relationship with Kate.
What captivated me most about this novel is its warm, inviting portrayal of the werewolf world. The setting, in particular, is mesmerizing. Luach, with its mist-laden landscapes and ancient woods, offers a hauntingly beautiful stage for the drama that ensues. Andrews masterfully transports readers to this secluded, almost otherworldly place, where the lines between the magical and the mundane blur. The imagery in the book is strikingly vivid, with a strong atmospheric presence. Werewolf transformations are depicted in a way that captures both raw power and the primal beauty of nature. The rugged island terrain, combined with the cold, relentless threat of The Order, injects a tension that permeates the entire story. This contrast between the safety of the werewolf community and the looming danger amplifies the suspense, making Luach feel almost like a living, breathing character. Character archetypes are skillfully brought to life. Adam embodies the tortured leader, his struggle to maintain control deeply relatable despite his supernatural nature. Kate, on the other hand, is the steadfast partner, her loyalty unwavering even as their world crumbles. Their relationship forms the emotional heart of the story, anchoring the fantastical elements in raw, human emotion.
The Path to Trust offers a gripping blend of fantasy and romance, all set against a vividly crafted backdrop.
Pages: 281 | ASIN : B0D6M58KJB
Angelic Love
Jasper: Book One of The Guardian League follows a woman in a near-fatal car accident who is rescued by her celestial guardian, leading to a whirlwind romance between them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Well…actually…I just wanted to write a story with a guardian angel and a human female. The angel, upon meeting her, would find her enchanting, fascinating and he would want to know more about her. The ideas for the story came to me, afterward, and I started building who he was, who she was and how they met.
Car accidents happen, sadly, quite frequently. I have heard some wild stories about how people have survived some horrific accidents and attributed their safety and wellbeing from the accident to an otherworldly force and I thought hmm…. What if Jasper saved a female from a terrible car accident that would’ve changed her entire lifestyle if he didn’t intervene and help her. The story just blossomed from that.
Tatiana is a relatable character that readers will be drawn to and understand. What was the inspiration for the main character’s traits and dialogue?
For traits, it was actually me. Lol. Yeah, I know. I place a lot of myself in my books. As a curvy girl, I have insecurities and worries just like anyone else but maybe even more so because of my voluptuous size and how I have been perceived in the past or treated unjustly in the past, solely, because of the shape and size of my body. Back then, body positivity was not a thing people spoke about or even emphasized. I am so glad it exists now because some of the memories I have are pretty traumatic and no person should experience them.
I wanted to portray a female that was relatable, down to earth, genuine and kind. One that has problems just like anyone else but keeps trying. One that readers could side with and root for their happiness. I believe every woman deserves a beautiful, handsome, sexy male. Curvy girls, too! That’s what I wanted to write about.
For dialogue, I kind of just went with the flow. I wanted the interaction between Jasper and Tatiana to be perceived as natural and comfortable like a conversation between friends. Her responses to him are in direct response to what he says or conveys. She genuinely likes Jasper, but she has reservations because she has been burned in the past. Albeit he is an angel, and she has to keep reminding herself of this.
Still, it is kind of awestriking and fascinating that an angel would take to a human in a way humanity has never considered. I think that fact, in itself, can be a lot to swallow but it can also be wonderful to entertain.
In fantasy novels it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
Well, Jasper really only needs to use his supernatural powers in instances where he has to. The Council, a group of five men that preside over the angel hierarchy, has their set rules. Doing anything that goes against those rules or is done without a purpose for humanity or for an angels’ own purposes or intentions is unlawful and can be punished. No angel wants to go up against the Council.
Jasper is an angel so showing some of his abilities was necessary in the book plus entertaining for the readers. It also gives a sense of realism to the story. Besides co-guarding a charge, he is also part of the voluntary group called The Guardian League so any time he is on a mission, he needs to use some of his supernatural abilities to assist humanity.
I wanted to tie in the world we live in and the angelic realm so mixing a bit of both without giving the majority of attention to one or the other was my intention when creating this story.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
Centurion is the second book in the Guardian League series, and it is available now, for readers. Centurion is also my second favorite angel in the Guardian League. His story is a bit different because he is an angel that does not want to be tied down/committed to anyone. Because he is handsome (as all angels are) and women are drawn to him, he has no concerns when it comes to needing intimacy or companionship.
Yet, when he meets a beautiful human female at an art show, where he is guarding his charge, he begins to question his thoughts and ideas about human-angel relationships.
Centurion is known as the angel that enjoys “strong and hot things.” His mate and coffee are examples of two of those “things.” It is a fun, enjoyable read laced with humor, character growth and a beautiful happy ever after.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Single female seeks rare, coveted treasure.
That was the announcement Tatiana wanted to post.
A strong, loving, committed male partner was what she sought. What she found, instead, were several frogs and too many toads. Where was her elusive prince? Did he exist or did she miss her opportunity?
Jasper isn’t seeking a mate. His only intention is to rescue Tatiana from a near-fatal car accident and then go in pursuit of his next assignment. However, intent and reality don’t always coincide. Saving Tatiana altered his world and now he can’t leave. But making introductions and claiming her heart was not going to be easy. He has a secret he is forbidden to disclose.
As much as Jasper craves Tatiana, he can’t override her free will. In the end, whether being with him or not is her decision. Will Tatiana welcome the powerful being who adores her and only wants to protect her, forever? Or will his secret be too much for her to accept?
Reader Advisory: A loving, protective angel intent on winning his enchanting, curvy, human weaves a fun tale interlaced with flirtatious foreplay and sensual, passionate moments.
PUBLISHER NOTE: Paranormal Romance. Angels and Demons. Rubenesque. 90,000 words. All characters depicted in this work of fiction are 18 years of age or older.
Jasper: Book One (The Guardian League)
Jasper: Book One of The Guardian League by TK Lawyer is a tantalizing blend of paranormal romance and fantasy that weaves the story of Tatiana Baker and her celestial guardian, Jasper. The novel starts with Jasper rescuing Tatiana from a near-fatal car accident, setting the stage for a whirlwind romance between a human and an angel. As Jasper reveals his true nature and the depth of his feelings for Tatiana, she must decide whether she can accept his otherworldly secrets and the complexities of their relationship.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the chemistry between the main characters. Tatiana’s insecurities and Jasper’s unwavering adoration create a dynamic that is both heartwarming and compelling. The author does an excellent job of developing their relationship through a mix of tender moments and passionate encounters. For example, Tatiana’s self-consciousness about her body is a recurring theme that Jasper addresses with genuine affection, making their interactions feel authentic and deeply emotional. The writing style is vivid and engaging, pulling the reader into the story from the first page. Lawyer’s descriptive prose brings the scenes to life, whether it’s the intense moments of passion or the quieter, introspective times between Tatiana and Jasper. The dialogue is natural and often laced with humor, which helps to balance the more dramatic elements of the story. The author also effectively uses inner monologues to give insight into the characters’ thoughts and emotions, adding depth to their personalities. The world-building, though not overly complex, provides a suitable backdrop for the love story and sets up potential for future installments in the series.
Jasper: Book One of The Guardian League is a delightful read for fans of paranormal romance who enjoy a mix of passion, drama, and fantasy. The book is particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate strong, protective heroes and heroines who undergo significant personal growth. It delivers a satisfying and entertaining story that leaves you eager for the next book in the series. If you’re looking for a romance that transcends the ordinary and explores the divine, this book is definitely worth a read.
Pages: 325 | ASIN : B0CGNW2ZWH
Shadow of Hope (Sol Defenders)
Shadow of Hope, the inaugural entry in the Sol Defenders Series by Molly Crowe, offers readers a foray into a world where choices between love and duty intertwine. The protagonist, Kalista, finds herself at the crossroads of love and obligation, haunted by a ghost from her past who once saved her life but now poses a threat. This central dilemma, while intriguing, is part of a larger narrative that extends beyond the confines of a conventional fantasy romance.
The narrative primarily revolves around a love triangle involving Kalista, Luke, and Raine. The dynamics between these characters form the heart of the story, though the book delves deeper than just romantic entanglements. Readers might find that the plot unfolds predictably within the genre’s norms but maintains an engaging pace. One aspect of the book that stands out is the development of secondary characters. They are crafted with depth and personality that transcends the central theme of romance, making them particularly compelling. In contrast, Kalista’s character sometimes feels overshadowed by the more substantial presence around her, primarily serving as a focal point for the developing relationships.
While romance is the driving force of this tale, glimpses into the broader world’s mythology and political landscape add layers of intrigue. Though not extensively explored in this first book, these elements lay the groundwork for potential expansion in subsequent installments. Readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and romance will find this book a gratifying read, though those seeking a more profound exploration of fantastical elements might yearn for more.
Shadow of Hope is a promising start to the series. It skillfully weaves elements of romance, personal growth, and fantasy, setting the stage for further exploration in the Sol Defenders universe. For fans of the genre, it’s certainly worth exploring.
Pages: 368 | ISBN : 1960810146
LITERARY TITAN 