Cover Reveal: Defy the Stars by Cathrina Constantine

 I'm so excited to take part in sharing this one with the world. Cathrina is a year-long writer friend, and I'm always won over by her tales. Since I have a weak-spot for circus magic, too, I'm going to be grabbing up this one myself...and maybe, I'll share it on here with all of you as well.

DEFY THE STARS

by Cathrina Constantine

YA Fantasy

COMING...

JANUARY 13th!!!

 

Circus grunt. Charmer. Fire wrangler.
Growing up within the grind of the enchanted Circus Faire, Crew’s unique talents have blossomed. Though, he’s been warned that the King of Hawkswing is determined to eradicate a certain species, and for his own sake Crew must keep his formidable gifts under wraps.

Relations between interspecies caused an imbalance of power and now are strictly forbidden. Dolorans, like Sage and her sister, are being hunted and persecuted because of their intense powers, leaving them no choice but to run to escape the genocide of their kind.

She possesses a forceful energy for good and evil.
His untapped powers are growing stronger by the day.
Survival will demand they rely on each other.

When Crew learns a dark wizard is holding his brother captive, he enters into a deal with him in hopes of getting close enough to free those he has imprisoned. Yet, what he uncovers is far more sinister than Crew could ever imagine. Can Crew harness the strength within him to save his brother and Sage and all those in the wizard’s clutches? Or will he be trapped by the wizard’s wicked plan?

Add to Goodreads

Author Bio:

I am blessed with a loving family and forever friends. My world revolves around them.

I grew up in the small village of Lancaster, NY, where I married my sweetheart. I'm devoted to raising 5 cherished children, and now my grandchildren.

I love to immerse myself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps me to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at my computer you can find me in the woods taking long walks with my dog.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub

Review: The Omen of Crows Nest by Cathrina Constantine

Happy Memorial Day! We decided to keep it simple this weekend and spend time with family around the area. That also gave me a few minutes to finally pick up a read, which I've had on my list for awhile. It released earlier this month and is written by a very talented author friend. Her tales tend to slide in darker directions...not always but often. I love her covers, and the original blurb pulled me in. Still, I was not prepared for this very unique story.

Ready to dive into a darker spin, where crows spy from every corner? 

THE OMEN OF CROWS NEST

by Cathrina Constantine

Young Adult Paranormal

No blood. No body. No murder.

That’s what the police found after Penelope spun her bizarre tale. In a hysterical state, she said her father was butchered and eaten by a mob of birds ~ in her bedroom.

They claim she’s crazy.
That she suffers from delusions.
Penelope is dead set on proving them wrong.

After being institutionalized for eight months, Penelope is out and more determined than ever to find answers to her so-called hallucinations. With her father’s untimely disappearance, she’s convinced her family is hiding something sinister.

THE OMEN OF CROWS NEST is the latest masterpiece by the award-winning author Cathrina Constantine, and is sure to leave fans of fantasy gasping!

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON   /   B&N

MY TIDBITS

Eerie whispers and dark secrets haunt from every page in an original tale, which is hard to put down.

Penelope witnessed her father torn to death and eaten by giant, black birds in her own bedroom as a young teen. Everyone says she's crazy, and her psychiatrists even try to convince her she killed her own father...although there is not murder scene, no body, and her father is even overseas, according to her mother and grandma. Penelope is doing her best to follow her family's advice and shove the unrealistic nightmare from her head, but it won't disappear, especially when the ghosts and birds begin to haunt her more and more.

Gothic fans will adore this read, especially since it's well-written and hard to put down. This is a dark tale with a main character, who dances on the edge of insanity. It taunts at ghosts, plays with magic, harbors more than a few dark secrets, and sings with murder. And all of this in a deliciously twisted manner, which still builds in first-love, inspiring sibling bonds, and teen troubles. 

Penelope is an interesting character, who thinks little about her own future or aspirations, since she is tightly captured by a disturbing past. She wants to fight and break-free but is limited on what she can do. Her concern for her siblings is heart-warming and inspiring, as she never looses their well-being from her focus. So, while some of her decisions aren't the wisest, it's more than understandable and makes her a character to root for until the end...and what an ending it is.

Rounded up, this was an uniquely, twisted tale, which flows in a direction of its own. Some things were easy to see coming, but it's exactly this balance between predictable and hard-to-guess, which made it hard to put the book down. Romance is also there but falls subtle against the darker plot, leaving secrets and a dark agenda as the driving force. It's a gripping tale, which has been tightly woven, and takes the reader on a very different ride.

Happy Book Birthday, The Omen of Crows Nest by Cathrina Constantine with Giveaway!

I'll be posting a review of this one toward the end of the month, but I couldn't miss out on a Happy Birthday shout-out!!!

The Omen of Crows Nest

by Cathrina Constantine

May 4th 2022

YA Fantasy

No blood. No body. No murder.

That’s what the police found after Penelope spun her bizarre tale. In a hysterical state, she said her father was butchered and eaten by a mob of birds ~ in her bedroom.

They claim she’s crazy.
That she suffers from delusions.
Penelope is dead set on proving them wrong.

After being institutionalized for eight months, Penelope is out and more determined than ever to find answers to her so-called hallucinations. With her father’s untimely disappearance, she’s convinced her family is hiding something sinister.

THE OMEN OF CROWS NEST is the latest masterpiece by the award-winning author Cathrina Constantine, and is sure to leave fans of fantasy gasping!

Goodreads / Amazon

SNEAK PEEK

The electrodes in my brain were like a loop recorder, continuously dredging up the past. And problematic for the psychiatrist at Green Fields Sanitarium, who was in the process of rewiring me.

Bear with me as I digress: I witnessed the gruesome death of my father by a mob of birds. I know what you’re picturing: A scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s horror movie The Birds. Not exactly like the movie, it happened in my bedroom. An aberration that my brain conjured, so they say.

Gramma had reinforced Dad’s untimely disappearance to the police. After the thunderstorm he’d raced to catch a late flight. An overseas business trip. Lacking evidence of any misdeeds, no mutilations as I’d described, the police had nothing to go on besides a batshit crazy kid. I experienced a daymare, a delusion, and it hadn’t been the first time, so said Gramma.

Afterward, Mom spent a week in bed, purporting she had a bug. She couldn’t keep anything down and stopped eating. I noticed her yellowy sick skin and hair matted as if a brush hadn’t made contact in weeks.

Thirteen days passed at a snail’s pace since that night. I was in the library’s alcove, my daily vigil, half-expecting Dad to come strolling up the cobbled walkway. My fretfulness heightening because I’d spilled my guts to my best friend, Hillary, telling her everything. If she repeated it to anyone, the repercussions would come back to bite me.

And here she is...

I am blessed with a loving family and forever friends. My world revolves around them.

I grew up in the small village of Lancaster, NY, where I married my sweetheart. I'm devoted to raising 5 cherished children, and now my grandchildren.

I love to immerse myself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps me to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at my computer you can find me in the woods taking long walks with my dog.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub

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Happy Book Birthday, Don't Forget To Breathe by Cathrina Constantine with Giveaway!

 This is one book I really want to shout-out to the world! It happens to come from a very sweet, author friend, who is an extremely talented writer. I haven't read a book from her yet, which I didn't enjoy.

And yep, I'll be picking this one up, too, and sharing it on here sometime before the end of the year.

DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE

by Cathrina Constantine

Publication date: September 1st 2021

YA Mystery

 

Leocadia arrives home from school to find her mom’s body. Unaware that the killer still lingers, she rushes to her mother’s side, only to be grabbed from behind. And everything fades to black.

Leo has been battling personal demons after a year of retrograde amnesia. She’s been having vivid dreams of that day. And her dreams are getting worse—she’s starting to remember. Two more bodies are discovered and they are oddly linked to her mom’s unsolved homicide.

Leo befriends her new neighbor. He’s eager to visit Star Hallow’s notorious haunted mansion. It’s located on a deserted cul-de-sac where she once lived and where her mom was murdered. But it’s the Lucien Estate, the mansion next door to her old home, where they happen upon misty ghosts, ghosts that just might help to unravel the homicides.

Will Leo’s memories send her reeling into a relapse, or will she be able to overcome her demons to find her mother’s killer – only to become the next victim?

Goodreads / Amazon

SNEAK PEEK

The black corners of my room softened into a silvery gray. I turned my head to check the alarm clock, 4:45. I begged the heavens, “Please, let me sleep,” and smothered my head underneath my downy pillow.

A nanosecond after slamming my eyelids closed, I was immediately transported to a year ago…”

My walk down the hallway to my parents’ bedroom became sluggish. She’d been complaining of not feeling well and had stayed home from work today. Was she sick and needed to rest and forgot about the boiling water? The door was shut. I knuckled the frame softly. “Mom?”

My hand twisted the knob and inched it open. I gagged on the smell.

An awkward, half-naked body draped the mattress—porcelain skin sliced apart, and silky blonde hair fanned the floor. Dripping red blood—gobs of blood. Eyes filled with terror watched me. Dead eyes. My jaw moved. Mommm—but no sound. I shuffled a foot forward and doubled over, spewing lunch. That was when I noticed a bloody dagger next to her fingers. Forged in a peculiar camber design like something I’d see in a museum.

Arms swallowed me from behind, “I’m not going to kill you. Not yet.” Then everything faded to black.

I woke with a start and gasped. My heart ached. Struggling upright I crisscrossed my arms over my chest and gripped my shoulders. Tears sprinkled my face—sorry for my loss, sorry for myself.

And here she is...

Cathrina Constantine is an International Best Selling and Award Winning Author. Her books have won Reader's Favorite International Book Awards. New Apple Medalist Award. Literary Classics Gold and Silver Award. Literary Classics Seal of Approval. And recently 1st Place Top Shelf Award for YA/Mystery.

Cathrina loves to immerse herself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps her to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at her computer you can find her in the woods taking long walks with her dog.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub

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Review: The Upside Down of Nora Gaines by Cathrina Constantine

 Today's review is a book I've had my eyes on since early this year but never found a chance to pick it up. Finally, I've had time to open it up and dive into the pages. This one is a paranormal horror read for young adults. I just love the cover and title. Plus, I do know the author and enjoy her tales. 

So, ready for some chills and thrills?

THE UPSIDE DOWN OF NORA GAINES

by Cathrina Constantine

Young Adult Horror

314 pages

Nora has visions of horrific things. Things that lurk in the shadows and feast on bones. After moving with her mother into an old farmhouse, Nora discovers a blank journal that fills itself with an ominous warning. A cursed beast is coming for her and time is running out. When the blood moon rises, so shall the beast.

Local teen, Rebel, has his own trepidations about the house. His parents, both paranormal scientists, were investigating it when they died under mysterious circumstances. His growing feelings for Nora motivate him to battle the ghosts of his past, if it means keeping her safe.

Allies to turn to enemies. Fiction turns to fact. The past and the present collide. All in an epic battle to claim unfathomable power. Can Nora unlock the secrets buried within the farmhouse in time to save herself and those dear to her from a grisly fate?

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON    /    B&N    /    BOOK DEPOSITORY

MY TIDBITS

Eerie and unpredictable describe this read to get lost in until the very end.

Nora's life is no longer balanced, since her parents got a divorce. She's given up so much to support her mom, even moving to a farm in the middle of nowhere. But she's not happy, especially when her ability to sometimes see the supernatural kicks in. Something is wrong with the house, and as she gets to know several people in town, her suspicions grow. Unfortunately, it might be more dangerous than she even suspects.

This was a wonderful, chilling read about ghosts, small towns and dark secrets. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Nora has some problems to deal with, but she handles them with the finesse of a teen—sometimes better than others but as best as she can. It was easy to feel for her and understand her decisions. Her relationship to her mother was also well done as the love between them is evident and ever-so rocky...as is real life. It was interesting to dive into and see that things aren't smooth and take work, but family is still family.

The plot was gripping and carried more than a few unexpected moments. I enjoyed the dance between the past and present, and the paranormal side was a dark treat. Add in the boy from town and other characters, and it is an easy tale to get lost in. 

Review: Marly in Pieces by Cathrina Constantine

 Today's review is an amazing young adult read, which I've been meaning to pick up since it appeared last year but just didn't have the time. 

But it was well worth the wait, and I might be reading it again soon. (Yep, I loved this one)

MARLY IN PIECES

by Cathrina Constantine

Young Adult Contemporary

260 pages

 

Marly refuses to believe her friend, Rae, committed suicide. Even though her wrists were slit, Marly knows her beautifully vibrant bestie would never do that.

Even though the two had drifted apart, Marly and Rae made a blood promise long ago to always look out for each other. Even in death, Marly intends to honor that vow.

Determined to find Rae’s killer, Marly faces a long list of potential suspects. It seems everyone has secrets or lies they are covering up… including the boy she loves. Can Marly uncover the murderer’s identity before she becomes the next victim?

GOODREADS  /    AMAZON   

MY TIDBITS

This one does a few triggers: suicide, violent deaths, bullying, self-harm, abuse

With potent writing, this read pulls in, hits home and leaves one on the edge of their seat for a tense and gripping end.

Marly's very best friend has gone missing, a girl who she not only shares a blood oath with but who she loves deeply despite their recently drifting a bit apart. Hoping to help find her, Marly heads to their secret place, and there makes a horrible discovery. Marly has trouble coping with the idea that her best friend is now dead, but soon, she realizes that there's a larger problem involved. She has reason to believe there's a murderer among them, and she very well might be on that person's list.

I love how this one is written. The author first sets up a heart stabbing scene full of tension, which grabs the reader on the very first page. Marly's best friend is missing...more than just a friend...and nobody has a clue where she went. But the author soon flips into a dance between flashbacks and present day, which reveal all sorts of secrets and emotions, linking Marly and her best friend. It gives wonderful character depth and makes it hard not to feel for Marly and connect with her. Usually, I'm not a huge fan of this sort of time-hopping, but the author does it masterfully, drawing out the right atmosphere and information while never allowing it to feel forced or chaotic. 

There are heavy themes in these pages, and the reader should be aware of that before tackling this one. Yet, these are handled age appropriately and with care. It cuts at the heart and gut, while adding the necessary setting for the tale. It gives the friendship, and later more tense situation, a lot of depth. The thriller end starts out slowly and smoothly comes in as the chapters advance. It's a wonderful slide from the first chapters and kept me in the pages until the very end. This is one of those books, which I didn't want to put down until that last page.

Review: Wickedly It Begins by Cathrina Constantine

WICKEDLY IT BEGINS

The Wickedly, 0.5

by Cathrina Constantine

CHBB Publishing

YA Paranormal 

313 pages

One fateful night will change their lives forever.

Seeley is born a hunter. God’s warrior. She’s endowed with inexplicable gifts to slay creatures and demons threatening humans. Alongside her guardian angel, Ezekiel, she will face unimaginable trials and tribulations.

Jack Chase was born an orphan. Kicked from foster home to foster home, he lands with a couple who worships Satan. He succumbs to their diabolical rituals, and learns he also has extraordinary talents. Wealthy, Asa Trebane, and leader of the Black Order of the Cult locates this teenager he’s heard much about. He takes Jack under his wing and into his home.

A mysterious pull leads Jack to Seeley. A pull neither of them can resist.

    

BOOK DEPOSITORY

BOOKBUB

MY TIDBITS

I have read the first book in this series, enjoyed it quite a bit, and was thrilled when this one appeared as a lead-in to the series. It not only was as exciting and engaging as I'd hoped but gave wonderful extra insight when revisiting book one.

Seeley is a demon hunter, and since as long as she can remember has been trained and mentored by her guardian angel. Now, she's about to graduate high school—a 'normal' life she's never felt that she's really a part of—and is still unclear what she wants in life, since she is a demon hunter through and through. During her usual visits to the local church, she runs into the mysterious Jack. Although she's never had the slightest interest in guys, this one is different. Not only is she drawn to him, it's a pull she can't refuse. But he's harboring more than a few secrets.

This book packs as much action, romance and danger as the other book I've read and was one I couldn't put down. Seeley is easy to root for and like. She does have amazing demon fighting skills and harbors more than a few other talents, but she's still unsure and, by no means, always comes out on top of every battle. Her uncertainty for usual human life around her adds a nice twist and is understandable. She has a lot to learn.

I really enjoy the sense of friendship and family in this book. While Seeley has to keep a lot of secrets from her parents, they know about her calling to a certain degree and support her in so much as they can. Even the priest stands at her side with loving guidance or warnings. As for her guardian angel...well, after reading this book, I think everyone will wish they had one just like him. His loyalty and love is warming, and gives Seeley an inspiring foundation.

Then, we have the romance, which is a definite tug-of-war. There is the 'love at first sight', but it works since this couple has a huge, upward battle. It's clear that even if this relationship works out, it's never going to be sunshine and roses. If these two want to get together, it's a true battle of good versus evil. But this one even has more behind it, and that makes it a true treat for the rest of the series.

And action? There's lots of that. The monsters never relax as everything from zombies to vampires to demons to hydras and beyond lurk in the shadows. Seeley has her hands full at every twist and turn. Add the wonderful, religious background to this entire thing, and it's simply a good read.

Happy Book Birthday, Marly in Pieces by Cathrina Constantine with Giveaway!

I'm especially excited today to help Cathrina shout-out her brand new release! She just happens to be an awesome writer friend, and I honestly love diving into her books. Yep, I'm a fan. I even picked this one up already myself and will be leaving my thoughts soon.

MARLY IN PIECES

by Cathrina Constantine

YA Mystery

Marly refuses to believe her friend, Rae, committed suicide. Even though her wrists were slit, Marly knows her beautifully vibrant bestie would never do that.
Even though the two had drifted apart, Marly and Rae made a blood promise long ago to always look out for each other. Even in death, Marly intends to honor that vow.
Determined to find Rae’s killer, Marly faces a long list of potential suspects. It seems everyone has secrets or lies they are covering up… including the boy she loves. Can Marly uncover the murderer’s identity before she becomes the next victim?

Goodreads / Amazon

SNEAK PEEK

I remember the day my best friend threw our promise back in my face.
Promises are meant to be broken.
It was always Rae and me, until boys came into the picture and screwed things up. Four years after our covenant, as she named it, Rae was missing. It wasn’t like her to take off, to leave high and dry, lacking an excuse. Sure, the past month had been dicey. Our heated argument caused a time-out of sorts, and had temporarily parted. But we would forever be best friends and there for each other, no matter what.
A sickening wave of worry rose in my chest as I walked over grass, wet with dew, toward the border of our property.
Determined to put this undertaking behind me, I crossed the threshold into the shadowed forest. I was certain it was fruitless—”She’s not there.” The wind took my murmur as a tendril of trepidation curled around me. Yet, I zipped my fleece jacket against the chill and went on. Last year I was in a similar predicament, hiking to our special place because she’d disappeared, and I found her, beaten with a blackened eye.
Why am I doing this again?
A voice in my head responded, You know why. The promise.

And here she is...
 

I am blessed with a loving family and forever friends. My world revolves around them.
I grew up in the small village of Lancaster, NY, where I married my sweetheart. I'm devoted to raising 5 cherished children, and now my grandchildren.
I love to immerse myself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps me to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at my computer you can find me in the woods taking long walks with my dog. 

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub

GIVEAWAY!!!
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Review: Wings of Flesh and Bone by Cathrina Constantine

WINGS OF FLESH AND BONE

by Cathrina Constantine

YA Paranormal

An Angel. A Witch. A Demon. And A Choice.

Creatures from outer realms suck, as any gatekeeper worth their salt will tell you. Welcome to Rogan’s life, an orphaned seventeen-year-old who lives and trains with other misfits under her uncle’s roof, keeping Earth safe from non-human realm jumpers. Rogan’s biggest issue concerns her uncle’s short leash with her freedom—that is of course, until she’s taken by a notorious witch, and her life begins to unravel. Soon, the supernatural beauty discovers there’s a reason her uncle kept such a tight lock on her whereabouts, and that she has more than angel blood running through her veins.

Eighteen-year-old Max is an angel, and Rogan’s mentor and guardian. He’s well aware of her tenacious inability to obey orders, though he also knows she’s a fierce fighter. When he’s involved in a scheme that ultimately gets Rogan kidnapped, he must battle his way back to her in an attempt to save her from the darkness threatening to possess her. 

 MY TIDBITS

With a row of wonderful characters and fantastical world building, this is dramatic and engaging read with tons of delightful surprises.

Rogan is a Gatekeeper, and a 17-year-old orphan, who knows basically nothing about her past. Although curious, she keeps herself more than busy fighting dangerous creatures from the outer realms whose intentions in the human realm are anything but good. When her guardian Max sneaks her out of their home one night to visit a club, she finds herself kidnapped by her own mother—a very powerful woman she didn't know existed. And her mother doesn't only want to nurture maternal instincts—she wants to use Rogan's hidden powers from her own schemes.

After reading the blurb, I was excited to dive into this one. It has a powerful beginning, which shoots off the quick pacing that holds through the entire book. Although I did stumble a little bit during the first chapters (didn't flow as smoothly as I would have liked, which also just could have been due to my mood at the moment), it didn't take long until I was completely drawn in and couldn't put this book down.

Rogan is a character with bite. She's a teenager who wants to prove herself, keeps her emotions pretty locked down, tends to be prickly but is loyal and has a warm heart. Parts of her make her easy to like, while other characteristics make her sometimes difficult to connect with. But this is exactly what makes her easy to growth with as the story unfolds.

The other characters are simply a treat. The author not only makes a great contrast between the good and evil, but adds such funky and alluring traits sprinkle in for each one. The characters are distinct without going overboard, making them simply fun to get to know, and like or hate.

Especially the visits to the other realms draw in with their rich imagination and delightful, fantastical elements. Although this begins in a semi-normal setting (reminded me a little bit of the Mortal Instruments mansion setting) with urban alley fights and clubs. . .but with vivid demon-like monster fights. . .the other realms bring a wave of fantasy pure with pixies, living 'rocks', elves, dragons, magic and so much more. Still, there are demons and angels and witches too. It's a rich mixture, which lets the imagination soar, while offering a action packed read, where each character has their own agendas and secret plans.

In other words, it's a lovely read for YA (and adult) fans of fantasy, romance, paranormal, magic, actions scenes and, lots and lots of hidden layers.

You can find out more about Cathrina Constantine:

Amazon Author's Page: http://www.amazon.com/Cathrina-Constantine/e/B00EPENYGE/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/wickedly333

Blog: http://cathrinaconstantine.blogspot.com

Twitter: @cathconstantine

Cover Reveal: Wings of Flesh and Bones by Cathrina Constantine

Wings of Flesh and Bones 

by Cathrina Constantine

YA Fantasy, Paranormal

COMING. . .

APRIL 13th, 2018!!!

An Angel. A Witch. A Demon. And A Choice.
Creatures from outer realms suck, as any gatekeeper worth their salt will tell you. Welcome to Rogan’s life, an orphaned seventeen-year-old who lives and trains with other misfits under her uncle’s roof, keeping Earth safe from non-human realm jumpers. Rogan’s biggest issue concerns her uncle’s short leash with her freedom—that is of course, until she’s taken by a notorious witch, and her life begins to unravel. Soon, the supernatural beauty discovers there’s a reason her uncle kept such a tight lock on her whereabouts, and that she has more than angel blood running through her veins.
Eighteen-year-old Max is an angel, and Rogan’s mentor and guardian. He’s well aware of her tenacious inability to obey orders, though he also knows she’s a fierce fighter. When he’s involved in a scheme that ultimately gets Rogan kidnapped, he must battle his way back to her in an attempt to save her from the darkness threatening to possess her.

Add to Goodreads

And here she is. . .

 

Cathrina Constantine is the Best Selling author of Don't Forget To Breathe. Her book won Readers' Favorite International Book Award for 2015. New Apple Medalist for 2016. Literary Classics Gold Award. Literary Classics Seal of Approval. Her Paranormal Fantasy, Wickedly They Come has been awarded the 5 Star Seal from Reader's Favorite. Tallas from her dystopian series received Literary Classics Silver Award and Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
Cathrina resides in Western New York. I am blessed with a loving family and forever friends. My world revolves around them.
I grew up in the small village of Lancaster, NY, where I married my sweetheart. I'm devoted to raising 5 cherished children, and now my grandchildren.
I love to immerse myself in great books of every kind of genre, which helps me to write purely for entertainment, and hopefully to inspire readers. When not stationed at my computer you can find me in the woods taking long walks with my dog. 

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

Review: Incense and Peppermint by Cathrina Constantine

INCENSE AND PEPPERMINT

by Cathrina Constantine

YA Historical

226 pages

Peace demonstrations, sit-ins, and burning the U.S. flag following the escalation of the Vietnam War are leading to a catalyst known to the world as the Sixties. A musical revolution, hippies, marijuana, and drugs are carrying the generations—young and old—into a new decade. All the while sixteen-year-old Mary Monroe is caught between being an innocent good girl and an autumn of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll.

When her brother offers a solution to her dilemma in the form of a little pill, Mary ignores the rumba in her brain and takes a walk on the wild side. Plunged into popularity and a life she’s only imagined, she meets Michael Covington, the hot newcomer, and she’s instantly drawn in by his less than flawless exterior and bad boy sex appeal. Caught up in the danger and excitement as they drift from party to party, into underground fight clubs, and through a series of drug and alcohol fueled adventures. Mary follows her new crush into a world where young girls are never truly safe from predators lurking in the shadows and where young men are hiding from the harsh reality of war.

Feeling buzzed and as if her life is spinning out of control, Mary is assaulted by an unknown man at a party, and she’s left questioning if the enigmatic Michael is truly her hero or if he is the face behind the terrible attack. With every piece of information Mary learns about Michael, her doubts grow deeper, but with every minute she spends in his presence, so does her love.

With the war and her fear threatening to separate Mary and Michael forever, only the death of a friend, a crushing confession, and her own sensibilities can carry her over the threshold between adolescence and adulthood.

MY TIDBITS

This tale lures into the free-spirit  during the late 1960's, glancing over the war and protests, while hitting much closer to home as it sinks in.

Mary, the good-girl and nerd of her family, is about to sixteen but is drawn into her brother's world thanks to his constant persistence and a little pill. Pulled into the circle of popularity, parties, beer and drugs, the freedom spirals out of her control. Finding herself in a bad situation, she's rescued by the hottest guy at school, but that introduces a whole new level of chaos.

This is the first piece of fiction I've read about this era, and although I wasn't sure what to expect, I was immediately drawn in and enjoyed the ride. Mary Monroe is in an awkward place like many girls of that age are. Her desire to have fun and get away from family troubles (and her family has their share) is understandable. That she doesn't make the best decisions is believable and totally understandable. She has a lot to learn and tries her best to balance her conscious with her desire to have fun—not an easy task.

The book hits hard on the partying end, letting Mary sink into the free life of that time with all of its joy and pain. While telling of Mary's experience through this period, this book also shows glimpses into the other characters' lives and lets them grab hold with their own tales. In some ways, it's a coming of age and the story of how Mary finds herself.

There is romance, and while it does carry a bit of instant love, there's enough build up and uncertainties to make it sit. The hero is all a hero should be but not without his own demons, and fits the setting nicely.

Summed up, it's a nice dive into this time period and opens up some questions not only from that time, but ones that also relate to today. It's an intriguing read, and the characters stay long after that last page is read.

I received a complimentary copy and was so engaged in these pages that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.

You can find her at her website here

Wickedly They Come by Cathrina Constantine

WICKEDLY THEY COME

by Cathrina Constantine

CHBB Publishing

YA Paranormal

270 pages

Haunting visions and supernatural talents are the norm for the sixteen-year-old warrior, Jordan and her mother Seeley. Together with their formidable angels they find themselves in peril when a wicked sorcerer is determined to fulfill the prophecy to his lord, Lucifer.

After an ominous vision of spirits inhabiting teenagers in a local school, Jordan enrolls in the social culture of teendom at Elma High to combat soulless demons. She encounters Mark, a mysterious new classmate, who is hell bent on keeping her unscathed from the forces of evil.

The battle between Heaven and Hell is escalating—and Earth is their battleground.

Quick Quibbit!

Something dripped on Seeley’s shoulder. Then another wet dribble skimmed her cheek and landed on Jordan’s arm. The wetness was bright red. She gazed up at a mammoth pentagram embedded into the rocky dome. The five-pointed star sparkled in the flickering light, and a planked balcony bordered the elevated fortification.

As she craned her head and peered directly upward, her bloodcurdling scream split the air. “Ohmigod! Ohmigod! What have they done?” Her knees buckled.