A Fun Fantasy Retelling! --"Bellarose and the Beast" by Carla Reighard—Review

 My Review:

“Bellarose and the Beast" by Carla Reighard is a fun fantasy retelling of “Beauty and the Beast!”  It is a magical twist on a familiar tale with an enchanted library. Ms. Reighard writes a great backstory of how Gerard (the Gaston character from “Beauty and the Beast”) becomes the way he did. It is done well, and the reader comes to care for him. I love that there are several different points of view in the story. Gerard learns about not letting his inner demons win. The writing and pace of the story are well done, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to find out what happened next in the story. Characters learn to not allow circumstances to make them boorish and self-absorbed. There are also great messages of family and sacrifice that I appreciated. It was fun to see some of the other familiar characters and the roles they play in the story. You will want to read this series in order because it ends on a cliffhanger. I cannot wait to read the next book and find out what happens! I highly recommend this book to fans of closed-door, low spice fantasy retellings!

Content: I give this book a low PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content:  a character curses, but the words are not actually written; loss, war, and blood; a woman is smacked on her behind by a man; characters drink alcohol; food is drugged; someone is naked when they shapeshift.

TW: hallucinations; mention of a gambling addict; depression; mention of insanity; orphan; adoption; loss and grief.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Such A Fun "Peter Pan" Retelling! --"Wendy's Ever After" by Julie Wright—Review

  My Review: 

"Wendy's Ever After" by Julie Wright is such a fun "Peter Pan" Retelling! It is more like a sequel because it takes place several years after “Peter Pan” ends. In this sweet coming of age story, Wendy Darling meets Mr. Blackwell, a mysterious and intriguing stranger who says and does things that remind her of Neverland. Wendy follows him after a ball to find out why he has such an effect on her and gets swept up in a great adventure back to Neverland, meeting old and new friends. I love the chemistry between Wendy and the enigmatic Mr. Blackwell. Ms. Wright makes Neverland come to life with lush descriptions and she writes with humor and wit. I love that we see Neverland through an older Wendy’s eyes. She must figure out who the real villain is and what is ailing the realm of Neverland (something nefarious is afoot!).

It was fun to try to guess whether the pirates were bad (like Wendy originally thought when she was a girl) or to ponder whether Peter Pan was the problematic one. Or are things not as black and white as they once seemed? I love the fact that there are pirates, and I think anyone who loves the character “Hook” from the television show “Once Upon a Time” will enjoy this story. The romance was wonderful, and I love the theme of loss and hope. Fans of retellings will love this story!

Content: I give this a PG rating. Some examples of the content: a man is about to strike a child; mention of ghosts and a place being haunted.

TW: possible child abduction and loss of a child; hallucinations; abandonment by a parent. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

 

 

An Enchanting Story with Fairy Tale and "Beauty and the Beast" Vibes--"Embergold" by Rachelle Nelson—Review

 My Review:

"Embergold" by Rachelle Nelson is a new favorite! Ms. Nelson weaves an enchanting story for young adults that has fairy tale and “Beauty and the Beast” vibes, while remaining its own unique story. I loved that it felt like I was reading a classic fairy tale or folk tale. From the incredible writing to the amazing world building, "Embergold" kept me glued to the page from start to finish. The world has castles and dragons and is Germanic in nature. Readers will love our heroine, Gilde, and her strength, persistence, loyalty, grit, and determination (despite the odds being stacked against her). Gilde is very relatable as she deals with anxiety, panic attacks, and health issues. I also loved the dragon and the character Wil. The romantic relationship in the story was super sweet and almost had me in tears several times. When Gilde meets the dragon, she begins to question everything she thought she knew and learns to think for herself. Ms. Nelson explores some deep themes such as what is truth, what is the true story, what is good, and what is evil. “Embergold” celebrates stories and why they matter. I loved the allegory and beautiful faith message. At times, I really did not know how things would end with certain characters. This is an exceptional story for young adults (and the young at heart) and lovers of fairy tales full of heart! 

Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content: mention of someone drinking alcohol; mention of and flashbacks of domestic violence and physical abuse; rumors of insanity; a character curses, but the words aren’t actually written; blood; a main character has panic attacks; there’s a ghost and mention of spirits; the word ar*e is used; there’s a type of dark magic and people get power by sacrificing and killing others; dark wizards and oracles; someone had a child out of wedlock; an animal is harmed in self-defense; someone thinks a girl may be possessed by demons; very vague reference to possible r*pe in the past.

TW: mention of domestic violence and physical abuse; rumors of insanity and madness; panic attacks; main character possibly has complex PTSD; toxic family dynamics; very vague reference to possible r*pe in the past.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

A Spellbinding Conclusion to “The Forest Grimm" Duology--"The Deathly Grimm" by Kathryn Purdie—Review

 My Review:

“The Deathly Grimm" by Kathryn Purdie is a spellbinding conclusion to “The Forest Grimm" duology. “The Forest Grimm" was one of my top books of 2024. The sequel exceeded the high expectations I already had going into this book. "The Deathly Grimm” is a continuation of the first book, so I highly recommend reading them in order. This book is a mashup of many fairy tales, with its own unique story that has a folktale/fairytale feel to it. Some of the fairy tales mentioned are “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “The Little Red Riding Hood,” “Rumpelstiltskin” and “Snow White.”  There is a good summary and catch up from the first book in case you have forgotten some of what happened in “The Forest Grimm.”  I love that the main character, Clara, deals with a disability (scoliosis) and chronic pain. The romance is so sweet, and I just love Clara and Axel. Some parts get a little weird and scary but did not cross the line into horror (in my opinion). If you are okay with the first book, I think you will be fine with this one. The author explores the question of fate and taking control of one’s own story. The book was hard to put down and things kept happening to surprise and shock me. I appreciate that the author kept the book closed door and portrayed the message of the couple wanting to respect one another by waiting. There is a great mystery that keeps the reader on their toes and my jaw dropped at a certain reveal. I did not see that coming! I love this series, and I am sad that it is over. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Purdie comes out with next!

Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating. Some examples of the content:  a character is a seer and fortune teller and a character tries to channel missing people; mention of illegitimate children and a couple were lovers; a character was physically abused in his past; mention of a drunkard and alcohol; children were cannibals in the past; a character curses, but the words aren’t actually written; the words “da*n” and “hell” are used; a woman does something like a spell; there are some ghosts; a character possibly hallucinates.

TW: past physical abuse 

Spice: There is one scene where a couple makes out and contemplates going all the way but decides not to because they want to respect each other.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

 

A Unique, Gothic Retelling--"Heart of Snow" by Rachel Grow Law—Review

 

 My Review:

“Heart of Snow" by Rachel Grow Law is a fresh, Gothic Snow White retelling! Rachel Grow Law may be a debut author, but you would never know it from reading her amazing story. I will tell you right now that this is one of my top reads of the year! It was everything I wanted in a retelling and the romance was perfection. Ms. Grow Law managed to make several nods to the original fairy tale while making this book uniquely her own. I love this time period of 1500s Germany during the Reformation and appreciate that the author wove so much history into the story. I learned so many new things while reading this story. Ms. Grow Law gives great attention to historical details and the book was well researched. This is great for fans of retellings and romance with Gothic undertones. Margaretha and Friedrich are such great characters. Theirs is an enemies-to-lovers romance. There are lessons on flirting, love, archery, and French between the two. Will these enemies catch real feelings along the way? Margaretha is kind and willing to do whatever it takes to help her brother, even to her own detriment. Will she make the right choices when lives are at stake?  

This book is so romantic, there is amazing chemistry and banter, and the first kiss was perfection. Ms. Grow Law made my jaw drop during a certain part, which I totally did not see coming! There is a scene in the rain and a letter that gave me “Pride and Prejudice” vibes. I love the themes on forgiveness throughout the story. I cannot say enough good things about “Heart of Snow.”  Ms. Grow Law does not shy away from some harder topics, so be sure to read the content and trigger warnings (she manages them so well and they never felt too much to me). I am a huge fan and cannot wait for her next book! I want to read everything she writes. This is perfect for fans of swoony historical romances, retellings with Gothic undertones and those who want that happy sigh when they finish the last page!

Content: I give this a PG-13 rating, due to certain themes. Some examples of the content: mention of alcohol; a character watched a woman be burned to death in the past; someone curses, but the words aren’t actually written; there’s a festival during the time the veil thins between the living and dead and the devil’s followers (witches) are in full power, so they make a bonfire to speed their journey to hell; mention of physical abuse in someone’s past; a legend of an evil spirit is told and there’s mention of witches; mention of someone not wanting to live and of scars from cutting her wrists; there’s a flashback scene where a woman who is accused of witchcraft is burned at the stake; someone tells a story about a mother and child drowning in a river; someone pretends to do a palm reading and fortune telling; a brief section of animals not being treated the best and being forced to perform; someone is accused of being a harlot; someone assumes someone else has a mistress; someone debates whether they should sleep with someone out of wedlock; someone is a bastard son; possible hallucinations.

TW: past physical abuse; mention of past su*cidal ideation and cutting; possible hallucinations.

Trigger Warnings (supplied by the author): folklore involving deaths of characters prior to the book's beginning (drowning of a mother and child, a child miner being buried alive), attempted seduction, heated kisses, a witch burning, character trapped in a claustrophobic situation.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

A Fun Young Adult Retelling of "Jack and the Beanstalk"--"Lady of Disguise" by Melanie Dickerson--Review

 

"Lady of Disguise" by Melanie Dickerson is the sixth book in the "Dericott Tales” series but can easily be read as a standalone.  It is a sweet, young adult “Jack and the Beanstalk” retelling. It’s set during the medieval period and takes place in England and Scotland.  I loved getting to journey back to this time period and especially to visit Scotland with our main character, Louisa. Louisa is trying to find a fabled treasure to save her and her sister from marrying men they don’t love.  She is kind and brave.  She meets our chivalrous and equally kind hero, Sir Charles, along the way.  Dickerson writes wholesome characters that readers can look up to.  I love the disability representation of two different characters that Louisa and Charles befriend, showing how we can be kind to others who are different than ourselves.  It was fascinating to see how people with disabilities were treated in that time period and how superstition played a role in things people couldn’t explain or saw as different from themselves.  Dickerson has a good grasp on the medieval time period and I appreciate her attention to detail, making the reader feel they are there.  I love how the main character prays and sees God’s provision throughout her journey.  Some of the wonderful themes in this story are those of chivalry, kindness, not judging others, and being kind to those who are different from ourselves.  I feel this series of Dickerson’s may appeal to late middle grade to early young adult readers.  The plot seems to be written with the complexity of a late middle grade reader in mind.  There is also romance and kissing, which is why I also mention the early young adult readers.  I think many older readers will enjoy this story as well!

Content: I give this story a mostly PG rating.  The thing that would make me lean a little more towards PG-13 is the references of the attempted sexual assault (which is not described and does not happen on page).  Some examples of the content are:  a mention of breasts; a brief mention that a man tried to force himself on a woman and was drunk, does not describe the incident; a woman is described as “well-proportioned;” a man mentions the possibility of beating a woman if she is found; the word “fornication” is used; there’s talk of being with child without being married; a man slaps a woman.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own.

Sweet and Inspiring "Sleeping Beauty" Retelling--"Veil of Winter" by Melanie Dickerson--Review

My Review

“Veil of Winter” by Melanie Dickerson is a sweet and inspiring retelling, loosely based on “Sleeping Beauty.”  It is the third book in Dickerson’s “Dericott Tales” series. The series does not need to be read in order.

I have read all of Dickerson’s many fairy tale retellings and “Veil of Winter” is one of my favorites! One reason is because I can relate so much to the main character, Princess Elyce (and I think many other readers will be able to relate to her as well). Another reason is that I love the multiple layers in this story. It is a sweet, clean, wholesome journey filled with romance and adventure. But it goes deeper, as it is also about Elyce’s internal journey as well.

I see Elyce as a sort of “Katniss Everdeen,” as she wants to save her people from oppression (they face terrible working conditions and have tyrants as rulers). She decides to do whatever it will take to escape marriage to an evil ruler—even take a sleeping potion, escape from her father’s castle, and face the elements of the harsh winter landscape; all to find a way to save her people!

In the beginning, Elyce feels unloved, having been told to repress her emotions. She feels deeply and believes that there is something innately wrong with her, due to the way she was treated by her father and aunt. Her enthusiastic nature and emotions are wrong and must be repressed because no man will love her otherwise. She starts out very hurt and she is living with false beliefs about herself, causing her to not be able to realize her true potential and become fully who God created her to be.

Enter our hero, the sweet, brave, “cinnamon roll,” Sir Gerard. You may recognize him from previous books in the series and now he has his own story. He is the perfect match for Elyce and assures her that she is not too much, and her emotions and passionate nature are beautiful. Who would not love that kind of man?!  Their journey together is fraught with much adventure, excitement, and danger. The story is a good pace and many times kept me on the edge of my seat. Throughout the outward journey, Elyce is slowly learning to replace her false thoughts and beliefs with the truth and to be gentle with herself. The winter journey that Elyce takes can be compared to her inner journey from being rejected and unloved to learning and realizing her true identity. The journey also mirrors “Sleeping Beauty’s” journey from sleep to a new state of awakening! This story is so beautifully done and encourages the reader to also reject any false beliefs they may have picked up over the years, to love themselves the way God made them and to realize their true potential and identity in Christ! I highly recommend this book!

Content: I give this book a PG rating. An example of the content is that a father physically and mentally abuses his daughter.

Rating: I give this book 5 stars.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.

To purchase the book click here

To visit the author's website click here

 

Beautiful "Ugly Duckling" Retelling--"Castle of Refuge" by Melanie Dickerson—Review

 

My Review

"Castle of Refuge" by Melanie Dickerson is the second book in the “Dericott Tales” series. This is a young adult “Ugly Duckling” retelling. I was very excited to read more about one of my favorite side characters in the first book of the series, Edwin.  

Audrey and Edwin are the main characters of this story. I really appreciated that this tale includes someone with scars (Audrey has a deformity), someone physically disabled (Edwin lost one arm) and someone who struggles with a mental disability (Audrey’s sister).  It is wonderful to follow along with Edwin and Audrey and see how they grieve and learn to live with their scars and deformities.  One does not see a lot of main characters with disabilities.

Besides overcoming hardships, the characters also encounter adventure, danger and romance.  I love the faith aspects in Dickerson’s books and how the characters truly rely on and grow in their faith.  The lessons are always so beautiful.  Edwin wrestles with blaming and being angry with God for the bad things that happened to him.  He realizes God does not cause evil, but may have plans to use it in ways we cannot understand.  God brings the beautiful from the ugly.  Audrey learns scars are what make her beautiful--the things she has overcome and how she stayed gentle and kind despite it all. 

As with all Melanie’s books, I think readers of middle grade and young adult novels will love this newest addition. It’s a fun, clean, faith-filled and heartwarming adventure!

Content: I give this book a PG rating.  Some examples of the content are:  there is an emotionally and physically abusive and mentally ill sister; people drink ale; a girl was physically abused in the past; mention of the devil and of being possessed by a demon; mention of a large-busted woman; mention of other masters taking advantage of their servants; mention of a concubine.

Rating: I give this book 5 stars.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.

To purchase the book click here

To visit the author's website click here

A Promising New Series by Beloved Author--"Court of Swans" by Melanie Dickerson---Review

 

My Review

“Court of Swans” by Melanie Dickerson is the first installment in her new fairy tale retelling series called “The Dericott Tales.”  This book is a retelling of “The Wild Swans.”  You do not need to be familiar with the tale to enjoy this sweet story.  

This story seems to be aimed mostly for the middle grade and young adult audience, but I also enjoyed it as an adult.  It is a plot-driven, quest type tale.  Our main character, Delia, must rescue her falsely accused brothers before they are killed.  I love the focus on the sibling relationships in this story and how much Delia will do for the love of her brothers.  Delia is very brave as she faces many obstacles.  She learns to be strong and courageous and to rely on God.  In the treacherous palace, she must find out who is her friend and who is her foe.  Who can she trust?  Both Delia and the other main character, Sir Geoffrey, are brave and put themselves in danger to do what is right and just.  They also pray and wrestle with the question of why God allows injustice.  I found the pacing of the story to be a little slow at times, but it is still a great read.

I love the lessons that can be taken away from this fun, wholesome read.  A big lesson the characters must learn is that sometimes God does not take away trials, but that He does walk with us through them.  Delia and Geoffrey learn about not judging others, justice, and that God is the ultimate authority.  They must learn that they have a choice as to how they respond to unfair things in life.  I love how Ms. Dickerson incorporates faith and lessons into her stories.  

Content: I give this book a PG rating.  Some examples of the content are: mention of paramours and of a man who violated a woman; some men are drunk; mention of alcohol; a man accosts a woman with the intent of raping her but is not successful and nothing really happens; someone curses, but the words are not actually written.

 

Rating: I give this book 4 stars.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.

To purchase the book click here

To visit the author's website click here

A Magical Cinderella Retelling! --"Beholden" by Jody Hedlund--Review

 

My review:

“Beholden” by Jody Hedlund is the first book in the “Fairest Maidens” trilogy.  It is related to Ms. Hedlund’s “Lost Princesses” trilogy (all of which I have read and loved).  This series is almost like a prequel to the “Lost Princesses.”  The newest installment can be read as a standalone.

“Beholden” is a Cinderella retelling, with its own unique voice and a fresh spin on the original story.   Gabriella, or Gabi, is our heroine with a heart like gold and bravery to match.  Gabi tries to practice kindness, even though she has lost everything and is forced to be a slave in a mine, doing manual labor because of the Evil Queen.  Even when in a horrific situation, she focuses on others and does not lose heart.   I often find “Cinderella” characters one dimensional, but Ms. Hedlund writes Gabi as a much more complex and relatable heroine.  Gabi has had so much taken away from her by the Evil Queen.  Will she let her need for revenge or kindness win?

Vilmar is the hero of the story.  He must go through a Testing to prove himself worthy to be the next king.  He works undercover in a mine, where he meets Gabi, and learns to be a slave to others.  As Vilmar becomes more and more involved and invested in the plights of Gabi and the townspeople, he starts to realize maybe there are things more important than his Testing and becoming king.  Will he give it all up to help others? 

This story reads like a Disney movie.  I could picture the events in my head as they played out.  I especially love the ending, which has such a beautiful message!  I will let you read it for yourself.  Fans of Melanie Dickerson, fairy tale retellings and happily ever afters will love this book!  

Content:  This is a clean read.  The only content is a brief reference to men drinking and gambling.

Rating:  I give this book 5 stars.

I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author:

Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

To visit the author's website click here

To purchase the book click here

"Dust" by Kara Swanson Blog Tour (Review) & GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Title: Dust

Authors: Kara Swanson

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Release Date: July 21, 2020

The truth about Neverland is far more dangerous than a fairy tale Claire Kenton believes the world is too dark for magic to be real—since her twin brother was stolen away as a child. Now Claire’s desperate search points to London…and a boy who shouldn’t exist. Peter Pan is having a beastly time getting back to Neverland. Grounded in London and hunted by his own Lost Boys, Peter searches for the last hope of restoring his crumbling island: a lass with magic in her veins. The girl who fears her own destiny is on a collision course with the boy who never wanted to grow up. The truth behind this fairy tale is about to unravel everything Claire thought she knew about Peter Pan—and herself.

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review 

Can I just say this book is truly magical?!  “Dust” by Kara Swanson is a “Peter Pan” retelling that takes place after the events of the original story, so it is also a sequel.  This story has many of the whimsical, magical elements that one expects from a “Peter Pan” retelling, but it also has a darker, more gritty side to it as well.  

“Dust” is truly a masterpiece.  The way Ms. Swanson writes is lyrical and witty.  I especially love how she portrays Peter Pan and how she writes his voice in the story.  She seems to capture the Pan we all know and love—cocky, mischievous, loveable.  But he is also flawed and selfish and needs to grow up.  Claire, our heroine, deals with mental health issues, a rough past and not fitting in.  Peter helps Claire learn that she can fly and to not let the hard stuff drag her down.  Through this relationship and story, faith is explored and the need to believe in who we are and do what we were born to do.  One must find the light in their shadows and always hold on to hope.  These are such amazing lessons expertly woven into a gripping story that I could not put down.  “Dust” kept me reading and wanting to find out what went wrong in Neverland, where Claire’s brother is and many other questions.  My only complaint (if you can call it that) is the cliffhanger.  I need book two; NOW!  Take a step into this magical story, you will not regret it.

Content:  I give this book a PG-13 rating.  Some examples of the content are: a person curses, but the words aren’t actually written; a girl tries to commit suicide; talk of bullies and violent parents; reference to a drunk parent; reference to the devil; a girl has a past of cutting herself.

Rating: I give this book 5 magical stars.

I want to thank Celebrate Lit, Kara Swanson and Enclave Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

As the daughter of missionaries, Kara Swanson spent her childhood running barefoot through the lush jungles of Papua New Guinea. Able to relate with characters dropped into a unique new world, she quickly fell in love with the fantasy genre. The award-winning author of The Girl Who Could See, Kara is passionate about crafting stories of light shattering darkness, connecting with readers, and becoming best friends with a mermaid—though not necessarily in that order. Kara chats about coffee, fairy tales and bookish things online (@karaswansonauthor) and at karaswanson.com

More from Kara

I wrote Dust not just for those who grew up loving the original Peter Pan story — but especially for the children who were left behind. Those of us who never escaped through a window to a magical world, whose childhoods oftentimes felt a little shadowed.

Dust follows Peter Pan when he is cast out of Neverland, grounded in London. For the first time, this Peter has to start thinking about someone other than himself—and become a beacon to remind any Lost ones that there is still magic to be found.

Dust also follows a young woman named Claire who can create pixie dust, but is desperately afraid of herself because when her fears and insecurities leak out, her dust starts to burn. Claire has seen too many shadows to believe in fairytales anymore and is doing everything she can just to lock away the strange dust dripping from her fingertips. But when she meets Peter, he challenges everything she thought she knew.

I wrote Claire for those of us who may feel too weighted to even remember what it feels like to have hope lift your soul. Who can look at ourselves and all we see are our own shadows and shortcomings.

Throughout the course of the novel, Peter has to teach Claire how to see the spark of light inside herself that is far brighter than the darkness. As he helps this girl learn how to fly, Peter rediscovers what it is that truly makes him Peter Pan: the unquenchable childlike belief that there are weightless thoughts in all of us that can lift us out of the shadows.

This story is a love letter to anyone who has ever needed that reminder. We have value simply because we exist. We do not have to be weighed down by our shadows. There is still light that can lift our hearts if we have faith, trust…and a dash of the impossible.

Blog Stops

Andrea Christenson, July 31

Rebecca Tews, July 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 1

Texas Book-aholic, August 1

For the Love of Literature, August 2

deb’s Book Review, August 2

Emily Yager, August 2

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 3

Blessed & Bookish, August 3

Through the Fire Blogs, August 4

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 4

Worthy2Read, August 5

Losing the Busyness, August 5

Adventures of A Travelers Wife, August 5

Remembrancy, August 6

Wishful Endings, August 6

Inklings and notions, August 7

April Hayman, Author, August 7

For Him and My Family, August 8

Musings of A Sassy Bookish Mama, August 8

Inside the Wong Mind, August 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 9

Nancy E Wood, August 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 10

Mia Reads, August 10

Simple Harvest Reads, August 11 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Faery Tales Are Real, August 11

Artistic Nobody, August 12

Ashley’s Bookshelf, August 12

Pause for Tales, August 12

Just the Write Escape, August 13

Blossoms and Blessings, August 13

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kara is giving away the grand prize package of a Dust-themed bundle that includes a signed hardcover, bookmarks, character cards, Peter + Claire art print, and an exclusive Dust pin!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/fe3a/dust-celebration-tour

A Sweet "Cinderella" Story (Reversed)--"The Peasant's Dream" by Melanie Dickerson—Review

My Review

"The Peasant's Dream" by Melanie Dickerson is the eleventh and final book in the “Hagenheim” series.  It is a sweet, gentle, reverse “Cinderella” story, telling the story of Adela, the youngest daughter of Duke Wilhelm.  It can be read as a standalone.

I love the diversity of Melanie’s characters and their personalities.  In this series, there is a hero and heroine to suit everyone.  There are kick-butt heroines and valiant knights.  In this installment, the hero and heroine are both gentle, kind and artistic.  Adela loves to paint, and Frederick loves to carve wood.  I love how they bond over their passion for art and creating things with their hands.  Frederick, especially, is very masculine, but also kind and gentle.  I love how he looks out for others; one example being how he is kind to his prison guard and even prays for him.  Adela grapples with the reality that she may have a hard time going from the privileged life of a Duke’s daughter, to the poor wife of a woodcarver and farmer.  I find it very refreshing to see a character not jumping headlong into a new life without really considering the ramifications.  I admit, some parts of this story were a little slow for me.  But the end picked up and it was one of my favorite Dickerson endings!  I loved not only seeing the conclusion of Adela and Frederick’s love story, but the love story of Frederick’s mother pan out.  And the family reunion and updates on characters from the other books in the series were so satisfying to read.  I am sad to see the end of this wonderful series!  I cannot wait to see what Ms. Dickerson writes next!

Content: I give this book a PG rating.  Some examples of the content are: a man drinks a lot of alcohol and is verbally and physically abusive; a woman is pregnant out of wedlock; some of the more “uncomfortable” Bible stories are mentioned; it’s said that men curse, but the words aren’t actually written.

Rating: I give this book 4 stars.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson, Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.

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Ms. Dickerson Nails it Again with this Fairy-Tale Retelling--"The Piper's Pursuit" by Melanie Dickerson--Review

My Review

"The Piper's Pursuit" by Melanie Dickerson is the tenth book in Ms. Dickerson’s “Hagenheim” series.  This is a series of fairy-tale retellings set in a non-magical medieval world.  This story is a loose retelling of “The Pied Piper of Hamelin.”  

There are so many things to love about Ms. Dickerson’s books.  I love that this quest-like story involves a mystery as well.  Who is the mysterious beast and why are children disappearing from Hamlin?  

Our main characters, Katerina and Steffan, work together to fight evil and figure out the mystery.  I love both characters and their personalities and I think they have a great chemistry.  Each grows personally throughout the story.  Ms. Dickerson gives these characters some great dialogue and quips that had me smiling as I read.  As in a lot of Dickerson’s novels, the characters pray when in danger.  They learn about finding their worth in Christ and not by the things they do.  There are some heavier subjects in this novel than in some of the past books of the series.  Katerina has a stepfather who is abusive to herself and her mother.  Dickerson deals with this topic with great care and sensitivity.

I love this story and can’t wait for the next book!

Content: I give this book a PG-13 rating due to the topic of abuse.  Some examples of the content are: gruesome descriptions of victims of the beast; there is a controlling and emotionally and physically abusive husband and father; allusions to alcoholism in a character’s past; child slavery; a man suggests having his way with a girl.

Rating:  I give this book 5 stars.

I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author

Melanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author who combines her love for history, adventure, and romance. Her books have won a Christy Award, two Maggie Awards, The National Reader’s Choice Award, the Christian Retailing’s Best Award, the Book Buyer’s Best Award, the Golden Quill, and the Carol Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from The University of Alabama and has taught children and adults in the U.S., Germany, and Ukraine. Now she spends her time writing stories of love and adventure near Huntsville, Alabama.

To purchase the book click here

To visit the author's website click here

Readers Will Get All the Fairy Tale Feels in This New Young Adult Series!!--"Evermore" by Jody Hedlund--Review

My review:

"Evermore" by Jody Hedlund is the first book in the “Lost Princesses” series.  This series is one you won’t want to miss!  Ms. Hedlund has created a new Young Adult world (that adults also love) with a fairy tale-esque feel.  The series is not only “un-put-down-able,” but is also free from a lot of the edgy content one finds in Young Adult books today. 

"Evermore" is about the oldest princess, Adelaide.  Readers will quickly fall in love with this heroine who is beautiful, noble and kind; but can also hold her own in a sword fight (and often dresses as a man to win tournaments).  The hero, Christopher, is swoon-worthy; to say the least.  Combine these two characters with a stunning revelation, a mystery and a daring escape (with lots of action).  Throughout the story, one learns about honor, family, forgiveness, love, faith and sacrifice.  I’m already eagerly waiting for the next book in the series!

Content:  I give this book a PG rating.  There is some gore related to battle and people who are tortured.

Rating:  I give this book 5 stars.

I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author:

Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

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A Stunning Start to a Series Young Adults Will Love!--"Always" (The Lost Princesses 0.5) by Jody Hedlund--Review

My review:

O my!  This novella is the stuff my dreams are made of!  “Always” is the novella which is the prequel to Jody Hedlund’s new series entitled “The Lost Princesses.”  So why did I love it so much?  This fairy tale-esque story is set in a medieval-like time, has princesses and is full of adventure and budding romance!  There is a daring escape amidst danger on every side.  The story is fast-paced.  I love that it is clean and it is a great book to give to teens that are looking for an amazing read (but it seems adults love it too)!  Ms. Hedlund sets up a world that I can’t wait to return to in order to read more about these princesses and their respective stories!

Content: This is a clean read.

Rating:  I give this book 5 stars. 


I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

About the Author:

Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

To visit the author's website click here
To purchase the book click here