Mar 11, 2025

Early Reader Review: The Three-Year Tumble: Based on a Korean Folktale by Dayeon Auh

Source: From the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Three-Year Tumble: Based on a Korean Folktale by Dayeon Auh 

Publisher: NorthSouth Books
Publication Date:  March 25, 2025 


https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
Based on the traditional Korean folktale “Samnyeongogae” (“Three-Year Mountain Pass"), this picture book parable by Korean-German artist Dayeon Auh features a fateful mountain, a superstitious grandfather, and a granddaughter with a clever perspective on life.

Legend says that anyone who falls down Misfortune Mountain has three years left to live. Grandfather must travel over the treacherous mountain to get to the market, but one day catastrophe happens and he tumbles down! The doctor says he is perfectly healthy, but Grandfather feels the end is near . . . until his granddaughter comes to visit and makes a different calculation about his fate.

From then on, the legend of the mountain takes on a new meaning and everyone finds themselves eager to tumble down it. A fable that demonstrates how a change in one’s mindset can make a positive impact.
Review: 

This picture book, inspired by the traditional Korean folktale Samnyeongogae, takes this classic story and shares it with English speaking children. While the concept and message shine—emphasizing the power of positivity and the impact of mindset—the execution might have left a bit to be desired.

The illustrations are bright and colorful, which will appeal to younger readers, but they felt somewhat rudimentary and lacked the refinement often seen in modern picture books. This may not deter children, but adults might find the artwork less engaging. Additionally, the translation from Korean to English seemed like it might have lost some of the original charm or cultural nuance, because the narrative felt slightly forced in places.

That said, the book's ending is delightful. The granddaughter’s clever reinterpretation of the mountain’s legend not only redefines her grandfather’s outlook but also shifts the entire community’s perspective in an uplifting and thought-provoking way. It’s a great reminder of how a simple change in thinking can transform our lives.

Overall, this is a decent read for children and families, especially those looking to explore folktales with a meaningful moral. While it isn’t one of my favorite reads, its positive theme makes it worth a read. I think families will enjoy having this Korean folktale in their collections.

Mar 10, 2025

Early Reader Review: They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators

Source: From Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators by June Smalls  

Publisher:  Familius
Publication Date:  March 11, 2025 



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
The newest addition to June Smalls’s nature series, They Work is a gorgeous nonfiction picture book about life for a hive of honeybees, complete with factoids

She is the queen. She fought for that position from the moment she broke out of her cell. Her job is important, but she is not the leader. A hive is only successful if many, many bees are working. But only the females are hard at work. Experience the life cycle of the honeybee up close and personal with this striking picture book from June Smalls (author of She Leads, He Leads, and They Lead) and illustrator Yukari Mishima. Told in a poetic style along with fun facts on each page for older readers wanting a deeper dive, They Work is a beautiful exploration of life inside a beehive, as well as the dangers and predators bees face out in the world—including humans.
Review: 

They Work is a fantastic non-fiction children’s book that offers an insightful look into the fascinating world of honey bees. The illustrations are a standout feature—beautifully realistic and incredibly detailed, they capture the intricate life of a bee colony in a way that will engage young readers and adults alike. The text pairs seamlessly with these images, providing clear explanations that align perfectly with the visuals, making complex concepts about bees accessible and understandable.

While the text might come across as somewhat direct and clinical, this approach suits its purpose as an educational tool. It’s straightforward enough to be easily understood yet informative enough to provide a comprehensive introduction to the topic. This book would be a wonderful choice for children to explore with their parents, sparking curiosity and conversation about nature and the vital role bees play in our world. Whether you’re a budding entomologist or just love learning about the natural world, this book is a sweet addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.

Mar 9, 2025

Building the Book Pile #478

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Good morning! Happy Sunday!

Welllll Last week I shared the beautiful breads... they were delicious but (TRIGGER WARNING - Ouchies) on Monday evening I cut my finger pretty bad slicing into one. I had to go to urgent care - luckily no stitches, but they did need to steri-strip it closed because a band aid wasn't doing the job. It is healing up ok, but it has been a weird week and breadmaking is on a slight hiatus. 

In blog/ reading news, I am still doing a pretty good job. I am finished with a few more books this week and still ahead on my review-copy TBR. So exciting. 

I have some tiny plant babies sprouting 🌱 and the weather might be coming around. It is hard to say in NH because we have a few false-springs before the real one gets going.

How did your week treat you? I hope well 😊

Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph


Coming up on the Blog

Early Reader Review: They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators by June Smalls (Non-Fiction)
Early Reader Review: The Three-Year Tumble by Dayeon Auh (Youth)
FINALLY - Reading Re-Cap: February 2025



Books Received Recently...  
  


 Wild Love by Elsie Silver - From Audible, using up credits
You're Not a Real Dog Owner Until by Scott Dooley  - From Netgalley and the Publisher for review.

Have you missed anything lately?
What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Mar 7, 2025

Blog Blitz w/ Excerpt & Giveaway! - Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi


Immortal Dark 
by Shermon Kodi
Publication date: March 10th 2025
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult


https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20


About the Book
The shadows awaken as darkness falls. And these shadows have fangs.

Seventeen-year-old Bexis has survived the frozen streets of Coppejj by trusting no one but herself. With her shadow magic, she’s scraped by as a freelance thief, working for local gang lords and politicians. 

But when a routine heist goes horribly wrong, Bexis is branded with ancient magic, making her the target of a bloodthirsty spirit.

Desperate for answers, she turns to an eccentric demon hunter. Together, they uncover a deadly plot by a sinister cabal, threatening to plunge the world into eternal night. As Bexis confronts her haunted past, she faces a grim choice: Embrace the shadows within, or lose everything she holds dear.

To destroy the darkness, she must first become it.

 

The job is simple.

Enter the room unseen. Wait for Ajjan to distract the mark—a foreign dignitary from the south. Then acquire her handbag and deliver it to the other side of town.

No blood. No trace.

My employer was very specific about that last bit. It’s common protocol in my line of work, along with an understanding that pay will be docked by half if I’m spotted. If there’s blood, I might not get paid at all. My mark must never know I was here. Personally, I thought I’d outgrown grabbing purses in the night. But it’s an easy job, and I can use the money.

The red night moon casts the world in crimson light as I pull myself onto the third-story balcony of a slummy brothel in the west end. The window is webbed with ice, obscuring my view inside—I can only make out pale blotches of yellow light. There doesn’t seem to be any movement, but I can’t be sure the room is empty. I just have to hope the Blackbones did their job and set everything up.

I give the windowpane a shove, but it doesn’t budge. Damn. The thing hasn’t been opened in months, and it’s frozen shut. For a common thief, a frozen window stymies a job. But I’m no common thief.

I take out my trapper tone pipe, a metal cylinder with a single reed, tuned to one specific note. The reflective surface catches light from the lanterns below, illuminating my name inscribed along the side in big bold letters: BEXIS. It was a gift from my deadbeat father right before he abandoned me. It’s the last thing I have from him, and if it weren’t so damn useful, I’d have tossed it years ago.

I bring the pipe to my lips and blow. The note is inaudible, like a dog whistle, too high for the human ear to hear. But the vibration weaves through the air and seeps into my skin, where it sparks like flint on steel, and a sonorous ember catches deep in my chest. Resonance hums through my body. The ambient darkness around me shimmers with feathered lines of silver that only I can see.

A burst of power shudders through me, and I hold it within my realm of focus, like cupping a candle against a sea wind.

This is resonance trapping—the first step in performing harmonic magic. Mine is the harmony of shadow. Sparking the ember is the easy part. Trapping it is more difficult, but holding it once it’s been trapped? Well, that’s like riding an angry wolverine. If I’m not careful, I might lose control, and people could get hurt. It’s been months since that’s happened, but there’s always a chance the resonance will lash out, sending me into an episode of uncontrollable power.

Resonance quivers through my veins. I reach my hand to the glass, willing the vibration into my fingertips, and the shadows obey. Tendrils of silver swirl across my wrist and through my palm. I touch the windowpane, and the shadows run through it, seeping like oil into the hinges.

The window squeals as ice crumbles around the edges.

I shift my awareness to the space above my head. Resonance purrs in my chest as I weave gossamer strands of silver around me like a cloak. This is my greatest trick. So long as I can hold the resonance and have enough ambient shadow to work with, I can conceal myself from prying eyes. But I can’t maintain it for long; already, I can feel my energy beginning to drain as heaviness settles behind my eyes.

Best be quick now.

I heave the window open and squeeze inside.



About the Author
Shermon Kodi is a legally blind author who finds inspiration in the quiet knolls of Chittenden County, Vermont, where the long snowy winters drive one to pair wool socks with moccasin slippers and curl up by the furnace with a pot of chamomile tea and a book about monsters in dark places doing dark things. Through his writing, Shermon seeks to explore the resilience of the human spirit, the tenacity of good people faced with hard times, and the relationships that light us up, make our hearts smile, and carry us through every storm.

When he’s not writing, Shermon spends his time thinking about writing.

He knows this is a problem— although, he contends, it’s a good kind of problem to have. Occasionally, he’ll break from his routines and really let go— sleep in till 7 AM, drink tea instead of coffee, read in the mornings, or plug in the ’07 Strat and reminisce about the days when he dreamed of being a rockstar instead of an author.

He’ll be the first to tell you: “No regrets!”

Life is funny like that.

Shermon is the author of Heart of the Valley and Songs of the Rhor, both available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Stay connected on TikTok and Instagram for updates on his latest books, behind-the-scenes insights, and creative content.

Find the Author

Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)
$20 Amazon gift card
Ends: March 13

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Mar 6, 2025

Early Reader Review: Caterpillar Chryzzle by Andrew Bond

Source: From the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Caterpillar Chryzzle by Andrew Bond, Illustrated by Julie Volk
Publisher: NorthSouth Books
Publication Date:  March 11, 2025



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Synopsis: 
A caterpillar trusts its instincts and is rewarded with a new perspective on the world in this beautiful and simple ode to a butterfly’s metamorphosis.

So I’m chryzzaling and wonder where we’re heading, and what is the deeper meaning of it all.

Worm and caterpillar are best friends. But when caterpillar starts talking about a strange “chryzzaling” feeling and thinks it might soon change, worm can only giggle and shake its head. Caterpillar enters its chrysalis, but worm is impatient and crawls away. Worm therefore misses when a butterfly emerges and soars into the sky, finding a whole new view on life.

With beautiful watercolor illustrations that show how one’s perspective changes over time, this picture book is a poetic reminder of the beauty in trusting one’s feelings and not being afraid to fly to new heights.
Review: 

This enchanting children’s book offers a story of transformation with stunning watercolor illustrations that captivate the imagination. The artwork evolves beautifully alongside the narrative, beginning with lush greens that gradually bloom into a kaleidoscope of colors, mirroring the caterpillar’s journey. One particularly clever detail is the way the side image gradually zooms out as the story progresses, offering a subtle visual cue that there is always more to life than meets the eye—a perfect complement to the theme of metamorphosis.

At its core, the story is an exploration of change and self-discovery. Caterpillar’s instinctive “chryzzaling” feeling—a whimsical term that will delight young readers—speaks to the experience of growth and the uncertainty it brings. While Worm is a supportive friend at the beginning of the tale, he is skeptical and a bit mean to Caterpillar as he decides that he needs a change and then misses the grand moment of caterpillar’s emergence as a butterfly. I liked that Caterpillar stayed true to his wants and needs and didn't take what Worm thinks to heart, and I think that is a good lesson for younger readers.

The book’s text is simple, making it accessible for younger children while still offering layers of meaning for older readers. Its message—to trust your instincts, embrace change, and find the courage to soar to new heights—is conveyed with an elegance that will resonate with both children and adults alike.

Overall, this is a delightful read that blends artistry, emotion, and inspiration. It’s a perfect choice for storytime or as a gift for a young reader. 

Mar 5, 2025

Blog Tour: Audiobook Review - Heir of the Beast by F.R. Black


Heir of the Beast by F.R. Black 
Series: Fairy Godmother Inc. Series #1
Publication Date:  June 3, 2024


https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20


About the Book: 
"All you must do is sign on the dotted line, and all your romantic dreams will come true," the Fairy Godmother says with a twinkle in her eye.

This is what happens when you do not read the fine print in a very detailed contract. You miss all the things that are immediate deal breakers.

Viola, a proud resident of New Orleans, lives on the top floor of an old Victorian mansion on a very normal street. But normal is no longer a word she can use to describe her life since signing the official contract of Fairy Godmother Inc. They forgot to tell her that she would be competing against other women in a very dangerous game. A game where she would be thrust into an alien world for the mere hope of catching the dashing Prince's heart.

And let me say this: this prince is one hot alpha male with a serious attitude problem. We do not get along, save for the fact that he can turn my insides to mush with one look. But the silver lining here is that you can have a happily-ever-after if you survive. You can't fall in love if you're dead. It tends to spoil the romance.

 


Rating:


Review: 
This audiobook was an absolute ride, made even better by the dual narration. Having a male voice for Apollo was a fantastic touch, adding depth to his broody, god-like presence. The story follows Viola, whose life on Earth is far from glamorous—until Fairy Godmother Inc. offers her an escape and a mission: assume a new identity, travel to another world, and win the heart of a prince to maintain the balance of good and evil in the universe.

Viola’s journey is anything but predictable. Sent as a slave with a mysterious past, she quickly finds herself entangled with Apollo—a dark, brooding, and irresistible force. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic was thrilling, the sexual tension was palpable, and when things heated up, they really heated up. The steamy scenes were top-tier, making this a swoon-worthy read.

That said, the pacing was a bit uneven. Around the halfway mark, it felt like the story was reaching its climax—only to push forward into an entirely new arc. Viola’s kidnapping and auction into the sex trade introduced a new layer of darkness, including a brooding pirate that added to the tension. While the twists were somewhat predictable, it was still frustrating waiting for Viola to catch up. That being said, she was a strong and determined protagonist, even if her stubbornness occasionally slowed her down.

A special shoutout to Mort, the comedic relief, who was an absolute delight throughout. Overall, this book was fast-paced, fun, and deliciously steamy, making it a great pick for fans of sci-fi romance with high stakes and sizzling chemistry.


About the Author:
F.R. Black is the author of the FAIRY GODMOTHER INC SERIES. She is a hopeless romantic and fantasy enthusiast based in the beautiful state of Colorado. When she's not whisking readers away to mystical realms filled with passionate romance, you can find her indulging in her favorite hobbies – reading with a glass of wine in hand and hanging out with her wacky family.

As a die-hard romance lover, F.R. Black's writing is heavily influenced by her readers, who inspire her to create immersive worlds and swoon-worthy love stories. Her books are full of thrilling adventures, heart-melting romances, and a healthy dose of humor.

When F.R. Black isn't penning her next enchanting novel, you might catch her daydreaming about castles and dashing heroes or searching for the perfect recipe for chocolate chip cookies. Her true passion for storytelling shines through in every word, and her books are guaranteed to transport you to a world of enchantment and blissful romance.

With a flair for drama and a lovable quirkiness, F.R. Black is a force to be reckoned with in the world of romance fantasy. So grab a copy of her latest novel, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get ready to fall head over heels in love with her captivating tales.

Find the Author

Mar 4, 2025

Early Reader Review: Little Cloud's Big Dream by Ixtzel Arreola

Source: From the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Little Cloud's Big Dream by Ixtzel Arreola, Illustrated by Martina Liebig 
Publisher: NorthSouth Books
Publication Date:  March 11, 2025



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
The little cloud Re has a BIG dream! But when she grows so large she becomes a thunderstorm, will her new friend Flower still recognize her?

A little cloud named Re wishes to grow as big as the clouds floating over the sea. She learns from a passing cloud how to collect dew and water and soon she has grown BIG! As she travels, she even soaks up some droplets from the petals of a beautiful flower and the two become fast friends. But then something happens that Re never expected–she starts to storm!

After storming across land and sea, Re grows small again and returns to Flower. At first the cloud is afraid her new friend won’t recognize her, but Flower assures her “from dew to rain to thunder, you are still you.”

An imaginative look into the water cycle through a little cloud and the feelings she experiences as she grows and changes.
Review: 
Re, the little cloud with big dreams, takes readers on a delightful and imaginative adventure in this beautifully crafted story about growth, change, and even a little about friendship. This was such a fun read with an engaging narrative and stunning illustrations.

The story follows Re as she dreams of becoming as big as the clouds over the sea. Her journey of collecting dew and growing larger is both enchanting and educational, offering a creative and accessible introduction to the water cycle for younger readers. Along the way, Re befriends a lovely flower, adding a heartfelt layer of connection and emotion to the tale. When Re grows into a thunderstorm, the dramatic transformation adds excitement and a touch of suspense, brought back to a comforting and accepting response from Flower. It was a well placed message about acceptance and identity. 

The illustrations truly shine, capturing the whimsical and playful nature of the story. The vibrant and imaginative artwork brings Re’s journey to life, from her beginnings as a tiny cloud to her bold transformation into a thunderstorm. Each page is a visual treat, filled with fun and charm that will captivate young readers and adults alike.

Overall, this is a fantastic read for children, combining an engaging story with whimsical illustrations and an important message about growth and change. Perfect for storytime, this book will leave readers smiling and looking at clouds in a whole new way.

Mar 3, 2025

Early Reader Review: A Song for You and I by K. O' Neill

Source: From Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

A Song for You and I by K. O' Neill 
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Publication Date:  March 4, 2025



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20

Format: Ebook

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 
Being a ranger means adventure, action, and protecting the weak. But who protects the ranger when they lose their way? From the bestselling author of The Moth Keeper and the Tea Dragon Society comes a must read MG graphic novel for fans of soft sweeping fantasy romances.

Rowan knows exactly what they to be a ranger, protecting their village alongside their trusted flying horse Kes. But when Rowan's eagerness to show off their worth gets Kes injured, Rowan is suddenly unsure if they're capable of being the protector they've always dreamed of becoming. 

With Kes needing to heal, Rowan is assigned a slow and winding expedition across the outlying lands. Paired with a lackadasical sheep hearder Leone, Rowan only finds frustration as they seem to fail even the simplest tasks. But Leone's own struggles, and endless support brings a new possibility to Rowan. Could their unlikely friendship be something more? And if it is, will Rowan be able to leave Leone behind to pursue being a ranger once Kes is healed?
Review: 
This beautifully illustrated graphic novel bridges the gap between middle grade and young adult readers, offering a gentle and heartfelt exploration of self-identity and growth. The story follows Rose, a young ranger who, after making a mistake, is assigned to assist sheep-tender Leone on a seemingly mundane task. However, the true heart of the book isn’t in its plot but in its themes—discovering who you are and finding the courage to embrace it.

As Rose begins to express a desire to be called Rowan, the journey shifts into one of quiet self-discovery. Leone, too, is on their own path toward confidence, and together, the two characters support and uplift one another in a way that feels organic and touching. The novel’s cozy and warm tone is enhanced by its soft, pastel-hued illustrations, making it a visually soothing read.

While the ranger aspect of the story is not fully fleshed out, the emotional core of the book shines. It’s a tender, introspective tale perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven narratives about growth, identity, and quiet moments of connection.

Mar 2, 2025

Building The Book Pile #477

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Good morning! Happy Sunday!

It was another great reading week. I finished a few things that are getting reviews posted next week (perfect timing). I also started Can't Spell Treason without Tea , I am not very far in yet, but enjoying it.  

This week at work was full of meetings. I work with companies and do employer relations, so we are debriefing with them now to see how the recruiting season went. It is a lot of work planning and having the meetings. In the end it is a great exercise but booooooy do I need recoup time afterwards. So much people time. 

At home, things are chugging along. We are still getting snow every few days. We are all just hoping for sun and spring now though. My seedlings are started for the garden - well some of them. I have onions, tomatoes and peppers going. They are slow to sprout but I have seen a few little leaves now. 

I also started making bread over the past few weeks. This week I got to make Sourdough - the starter was finally ready. I live close to the Vermont King Arthur Flour, so I splurged on some flour, pre-mixed options, and a bread topping last weekend.

(don't mind my crazy 70s kitchen / green stove, orange counters... we are going to move the whole kitchen soon)


 


xo steph


Coming up on the Blog


A lot is coming this week !!! 

Early Reader Review: A Song for You and I by K. O'Neill (GN, MG/YA)
Early Reader Review: Little Cloud's Big Dream by Ixtzel Arreola (Youth)
Blog Tour: Audiobook Review - Heir of the Beast by F.R. Black (YA)
Early Reader Review: Caterpillar Chryzzle by Andrew Bond (Youth)
Blog Blitz w/ Excerpt & Giveaway - Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi (YA)


Books Received Recently...  
  

 

Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi - From Netgalley for review.
Ghostly by Kate Serzenta - Recommended so I picked up from Kindle Unlimited.

Have you missed anything lately?
What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Feb 28, 2025

Blog Tour: Haworth's Enchanted Chronicles by Charlotte Waters



Haworth's Enchanted Chronicles by Charlotte Waters 

Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing
Publication Date:  January 28, 2025



https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27405327-pop-manga-coloring-book?from_search=true  https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Manga-Coloring-Book-Beautiful/dp/0399578471?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0399578471&linkCode=as2&redirect=true&ref_=x_gr_w_bb&tag=x_gr_w_bb-20


About the Book:
In the heart of Haworth lies a secret—one that spans centuries and bridges worlds. When a group of time-travelling children stumble upon an ancient, shimmering key, they are thrust into an enchanting adventure that takes them far beyond the moors and into magical lands filled with wonder, danger, and creatures beyond imagination.

Guided by mysterious forces and shadowy guardians, the children must unlock the truth hidden in the past and navigate a future that holds the fate of both realms. With each discovery, they find that magic is not just in the world around them—but within themselves.

Step into the enchanted, where history and magic collide, and nothing is as it seems.

Rating:


This charming adventure has all the ingredients for a magical tale—time-traveling children, ancient keys, magical books and trinkets, and whimsical realms filled with wonder. The short, easy-to-read chapters make it a great pick for younger readers, and the episodic nature of the story allows each adventure to feel like its own little journey.

One of the book’s biggest strengths is its whimsical world-building. The magical realms are brimming with enchantment, and the creatures the children encounter will surely captivate young readers. From mystical guardians to fantastical landscapes, there’s plenty of imagination at play, making each new setting feel fresh and exciting.

While the book is full of enchanting moments, it doesn’t quite reach its full potential. The historical elements hinted at in the synopsis are barely explored, and the magic, while fun, lacks deeper meaning or explanation. There’s also little character development, and the role of the guardians remains unclear, making the story feel a bit light on substance.

That said, for readers who enjoy simple, magical adventures without too much complexity, this book offers a delightful escape. It may not leave a lasting impact, but it provides an enjoyable, easy read for those looking for a bit of wonder. 


About the Author:

Charlotte has always found joy in storytelling, a passion that began in school and blossomed further as her nephews and niece grew up. Storytime became an exciting ritual, filled with imagination and wonder, sparking her drive to create magical worlds of her own.

Growing up near Haworth, Charlotte spent countless hours immersed in the history and atmosphere of the Brontë sisters’ legacy. Her deep love for the Brontës and the literary magic of Haworth inspired much of her writing. In fact, she was named after Charlotte Brontë, who has always felt like a guiding force in her creative journey.

Her debut series, “Haworth’s Enchanted Chronicles,” seamlessly blends her love for history and fantasy, bringing together time travel, magical creatures, and the rich backdrop of the Brontë era. The series showcases her ability to craft stories that enchant readers of all ages.

Charlotte is now continuing her literary journey, drawing on her experiences and love for storytelling to create captivating adventures that capture the hearts of her audience.

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