Happy Book Birthday, The Shadows Rule All by Abigail Owen!

 It's time to shout-out another book birthday! This one released yesterday and is the final book in a trilogy. Even more amazing, I've actually read these books so far! So, that says something, I guess. This is a pretty well-woven plot (at least, it has been so far), which also explains the 500 pages plus. If I remember right from the end of book 2, the heroine has a lot to get through and smoothed out still.

I'm excited to see where the story heads and how it all ends.

THE SHADOWS RULE ALL

Dominions #3

by Abigail Owen

Entangled Teen

YA Fantasy

512 pages

Let the darkness rise…in the breathtaking conclusion to award-winning author Abigail Owen’s Dominions series.

King Eidolon has taken everything.

My throne, my Shadowraith, and even my kingdom. I am a queen with no one to rule, and a tattered army that's not even mine. And hope is fading fast.

Now the shadows who once tormented Reven live within me, hissing and wheedling―and enticing me to betray my friends. Which could be deadly for us all. Because without the guy I fell for, without Reven, I am all shadows…and no light.

And the Alignment is almost upon us―the culmination of centuries that have fueled a vengeful king’s festering rage.

We’re outnumbered. We’re underpowered. And even if we could unleash the trapped goddesses, they would destroy the kingdom and everything in it.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON    /     B&N

MY TIDBITS

Tension hits a high-note as it swaddles with heart-break, angst, and everything needed to mold an epic tale with richness flowing in every direction and more.

This third book in the series takes off from the ending of book two with a little time gap, meeting the characters as they've begun to settle, more or less depending on the situation, into their last met state. It takes a little bit to get into the flow of things, not due to the writing...that jumps right in...but simply because there are such rich arcs and while the characters have slid in after the last happenings, the reader needs to join them first. But it doesn't take long, and after that, it's non-stop amazement the entire way through.

If the other two books held tension (and they did), this one manages to notch things up again and promises situations which are over-the-top impossible. It draws the reader to the edge of their seats, makes it clear that not everything can run well, packs in more violence, higher stakes, and so much more heart break than the first two books did. It's a well-crafted weave with everything needed to create that epic atmosphere and plot, which invites to get lost in. With rough corners and edges galore. This makes it not only a read for the upper end of YA, but also adults will enjoy the adventure. Still, it tippy-toes enough to stay balanced on that YA line from the content side...although it is a tight line.

There is frustration on the romance end as the characters suffer through the amnesia string, and that one is harsh. The ending comes with surprise and holds all the weight to do the tale justice. Don't expect warm fuzzies, though. There are a few frayed ends on some plot strings, which stay open, but this doesn't frustrate and slides right in to the atmosphere.

Simply said, this is a well-woven ending to an grabbing series.

And here she is...

Abigail Owen is the #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today bestselling author of 30+ books that range from upper YA (18+) epic romantasy to new adult modern mythic romantasy to super spicy adult paranormal romance. She loves magical worlds with plots that move hot and fast, feisty heroines with sass, heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of HEAs! Other titles include: wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, AuDHD, spreadsheet lover, Jeopardy! fanatic, organizational guru, true classic movie buff, linguaphile, wishful world traveler, and chocoholic. Abigail currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own swoon-worthy hero, their (mostly) angelic teenagers, and an adorable fur baby. abigailowen.com

The Smell of Wet Dog by Barney Saltzberg

While my son is away for training (it's amazing how often the Army has trainings and such!), we've been taking care of his dog. With our dog, that makes two, and they definitely double-dog life in every way. So, today's read had me smiling. Now, I'm not always a huge poetry fan but do have my favorites and enjoy them every-now-and-then. 

Let's see how this one goes!

 

THE SMELL OF WET DOG

And Other Poems and Drawings

by Barney Saltzberg

Neal Porter Books

Children's Poetry

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

Equal parts heart-melting and stinky, The Smell of Wet Dog is a must-have illustrated poetry book for every young canine fan.

The smell of wet dog is not a good smell.
When a dog is wet it’s easy to tell.
Imagine moose and skunk perfume.
An odiferous stench, a paint-peeling plume.

Beloved author and illustrator Barney Saltzberg offers up twenty-seven poems on the evergreen topic of human’s best friend. Many have all the humor of a Shel Silverstein classic. Others are unexpectedly poignant, about separation anxiety or older dogs growing less spry. All are accompanied by Saltzberg’s lively and loveable artwork. 

Whether you are a dog lover, love a dog lover, or are simply dog-curious, The Smell of Wet Dog is for someone in your life. One thing’s for You’ll leave this book inspired to write an ode to a furry friend of your own!

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON  /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

Keeping things light and fun but with a sigh-worthy string of truth, these poems will have dog fans smiling, nodding, snorting, and gazing over at their favorite pup.

This is a collection of poems surrounding dogs and all of their wonderful (and not so wonderful) attributes. The poems stick to a light, humorous tone and flow very nicely. Some are written from a dog's perspective (with a little imagination, obviously), and others are from a human's perspective. Each one is accompanied by a fitting, simple illustration of a dog to round off the atmosphere.

From the first poem on, a smile was plastered on my face. So many small attributes of dogs are  touched upon and the truth ringing behind them is one dog-knowers will appreciate. Yet, the poems are very well suited for this younger reading level...and they'll catch the silliness and meaning too. It makes each poem go by easily and enjoyably. Several are sure to become favorites to read again and again.

This book not only makes a lovely read-aloud for group settings but also works nicely for cuddling up in a chair with and enjoying. Those readers, who have a pretty good grip on words can grab it up on their own. Don't be surprised if you catch yourself reading some of these to your own dog, too. Oh, and the last poem adds a cute twist!

Thieves' Gambit by Kayvion Lewis

Today's read is one I was hoping to get to last month and just didn't make it. Which means I have something to look forward to! I do enjoy a good spy thriller, and this one should be just that. It's not a new read but has been around since last year. It has been getting great reviews and has even been nominated as a Goodreads Choice book, and I believe I heard whispers of this one turning into a movie?  So, my expectations are high. Plus, tomorrow...

Yep, tomorrow!

...the second book in the series releases!!!

Let that Mission Impossible music start playing in your head because off we go!

THIEVE'S GAMBIT

by Kayvion Lewis

Nancy Paulsen Books

YA Thriller

384 pages

The Inheritance Games meets Ocean's Eleven in this cinematic heist thriller where a cutthroat competition brings together the world's best thieves and one thief is playing for the highest stakes of all: her mother's life.

At only seventeen years old, Ross Quest is already a master thief, especially adept at escape plans. Until her plan to run away from her legendary family of thieves takes an unexpected turn, leaving her mother's life hanging in the balance.

In a desperate bid, she enters the Thieves' Gambit, a series of dangerous, international heists where killing the competition isn't exactly off limits, but the grand prize is a wish for anything in the world--a wish that could save her mom. When she learns two of her competitors include her childhood nemesis and a handsome, smooth-talking guy who might also want to steal her heart, winning the Gambit becomes trickier than she imagined.

Ross tries her best to stick to the family creed: trust no one whose last name isn't Quest. But with the stakes this high, Ross will have to decide who to con and who to trust before time runs out. After all, only one of them can win.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON   /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

Never a dull moment as high-stakes, twisted surprises, and secrets rush in from every side.

Ross is a master thief, one of the best of the best, and she's only seventeen. But that's not a surprise considering she comes from a line of well-known thieves and has known nothing else her entire life as her mother incorporates her into every job as long as Ross can remember. It's a fine life except that Ross has absolutely no friends. Trust isn't something anyone in the family can afford. Still, Ross has dreams at being normal...at least, a bit...and wants to attend college or something. Not that her mom will listen. When a weird email invites her to the Thieves Gambit, Ross' aunt makes it clear that this isn't a 'good' contest of thieves, and Ross listens. That is, until her mother is kidnapped and she has no choice but to enter a very dangerous game.

Anyone who enjoys high-tension tales such as Ocean's Eleven is in for a treat with this read. It's an edge-of-your-seat type of read and can be read in one go if time allows. It's very hard to put down and packs all sorts of action, dangerous situations, secrets, and more. So, action and mystery fans can find tons to enjoy in these pages.

And there's heart as well as character development. Ross is understandably ready to see more of the world and life, although she does adore her family. Her dedication and love is inspiring and wholesome as are the relationships in the family...not that they're perfect, and that makes it more enjoyable. Ross also has trust issues, which is more than understandable, and it's this aspect which creates a well-formed arc to connect with her, root for her, hurt with her, and cheer with her until the end. There's also romance, but this was a could-leave-or-take one and doesn't carry the story. It does add an extra twist and works well in the character arc, but Ross already has her hands more than full with everything else. I'm curious to see which direction this aspect takes in the rest of the series.

The author also manages to pack in more than a few very unexpected surprises, and this was a nice treat. Especially the end adds a stab to the gut out of the dark, which rings in expectations on the next book. Luckily, it's about to hit the market, too.

And here she is...

Kayvion Lewis is a young adult author of all things escapist and high-octane. A former youth services librarian, she’s been working with young readers and kidlit since she was sixteen. When she’s not writing, she’s breaking out of escape rooms, jumping out of airplanes, and occasionally running away to mountain retreats to study kung fu. Though she’s originally from Louisiana, and often visits her family in The Bahamas, these days you can find her in New York—at least until she takes off on her next adventure.

 

Pro Gamers Guide to Healthy Habits! by Brian Saviano

Any young gamers out there? Stupid questions, right? I bet there's more than a few of them who would love to become pro gamers one day, too. My own kids always thought it'd be fun to be commentators on Youtube...but it was only one of their many dreams. 

Today's read is for all of those pro-gamer-hopefuls out there and should not only offer encouraging words as they work hard to meet their goal but will give a few tips on how to keep their minds and bodies at the ready. While I have no doubt that this is a very important theme (that's why I'm taking a peek), I'm really hoping it doesn't ruin the gaming fun and head in a preachy or boring direction...because future pro gamers are ready for excitement and, for all things, gaming.

So, let's see how this one flows!

PRO GAMERS GUIDE TO HEALTHY HABITS!

by Brian Saviano

Illustrated by Kevin Hinkle

Mascot Kids

Picture Book

ages 5 to 8

Do you know what it takes to move your gaming skills to the next level? Should you have sugary snacks and energy drinks, or practice endlessly? No way! The real path to success is by leading a healthy lifestyle.

Join Brian on his journey to become a pro gamer! With proper hygiene, hydration, and help from his parrot pal Pauly, Brian will conquer every obstacle in his path toward gaming greatness.

This story explores themes of self-care and generosity for a digitally-driven generation. An instant classic for any game room!

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Bright illustrations mix with gaming happiness to encourage young readers to achieve their pro-gaming dreams while steering away from bad habits, which might actually ruin their hopes in the future.

This book fits the younger audience level nicely. The pictures take on a blocky world (a bit reminiscent of Minecraft), while adding enough rounder elements and styles to open up in other directions, too. There is only a line or two of text on each page, and while readers who have a good grip on their words can tackle it, it also works nicely for a read-aloud. 

The whole thing is set in a gaming-style world to keep the theme up-front and fun. It starts with  energy and enthusiasm, and—what I especially enjoyed—supports the reader without a smidgen of doubt in their pro-gamer dreams. It offers encouragement and never even hints at the idea that the reader can't achieve this high goal. Then, it slides in several habits gamers often have, which aren't really as helpful as they might seem (playing until early morning hours, bad hygiene, forgetting friends, unhealthy snacks, etc.) and shows how healthier habits lead to more energy, a better attitude, and more gaming readiness. 

There is an obvious message in these pages, but thanks to the main character and way these habits filter somewhat into the story, it's remains an entertaining and supportive read the entire way through. 

And here he is...

Brian Saviano is a full-time content creator known as “Bricks ‘O’ Brian.” Through his gaming videos, podcasts, livestreams, and books, he positively engages audiences of all ages. He loves to share meaningful and funny life stories with his fans. His favorite game is “Paper Mario the Thousand-Year Door” on Nintendo Switch

Happy Almost-Book Birthday, Fortune's Kiss by Amber Clement!

It's not quite release day, but it's pretty close (3 days!). Since I love shouting out book birthdays and celebrating, I consider that close enough.

Today's read grabbed my attention the second I read the blurb; it sounds so exciting! The cover, actually, had me unsure what to think. I think because of the circus-y, mummy, and fortune-teller flair...an odd combo but should fit to the book by the sounds of it. I'm always ready for surprises and have a feeling this one will hold more than a few. Hopefully, they're good ones!

(Note: After reading this, I'm adding it to my favorite of the year list. I couldn't put it down, and that's enough for me)

FORTUNE'S KISS

by Amber Clement

Union Square & Co

YA Fantasy

368 pages

RELEASE DAY...

NOVEMBER 12TH!!!

The legendary Fortune’s Kiss has returned to Ciudad Milagro for the first time in ten years. The magical gambling house shows up twice a year in a new city during the solstices to lure those worthy enough to wager their souls for wealth, the realization of their greatest desires, and, even, immortality.

Known by many names throughout the years, it returns to Milagro as El Beso de la Fortuna . . . and the game is Lotería. And best friends Mayté Robles and Lorena (Lo) de León are determined to change their lives, escape the dangerous men who threaten them, and gain riches.

Mayté, the sole daughter of the disgraced Robles family, wishes to leave her family and become a successful painter, while Lo suffers at the hands of her powerful and abusive father and seeks to find her mother, who escaped to Fortune’s Kiss years ago but never returned.

When Fortune’s Kiss finally returns to their city, the pair follow on their childhood blood pact to enter the gaming salon. But once inside, Mayté and Lo quickly realize that beneath the marvelous glamour, the salon is hiding dangerous secrets and the house always wins. And the game of Lotería is not the children’s game they grew up playing—it is a deadly lottery of chance.

With the help of a young, handsome croupier, the girls embark on a mission to unravel the mystery of the salon’s magic, find Lo’s mother, and try to win a nearly impossible game as their friendship is put under the greatest of tests.

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Fate and fortune intertwine in a dangerous game of chance, where the stakes are higher than death and the weight the players bring with them is immeasurable.

Mayte and Loteria have been best friends forever. Mayte's family may have plummeted from their high position in society to the lower levels, but Loteria's holds their own dark secrets. Both girls suffer, which is one reason they swore long ago to wager their very souls if Fortune's Kiss ever reappeared in their city. The mysterious gaming salon only appears twice a year and always in a new place. The winner will have any wish granted, while all others are never seen again. So when the salon appears, Mayte and Loteria decide to hold their oath and see if they are picked to join the game. Both feel they have nothing to lose, but Fortune's Kiss reveals even the most hidden secrets...and these are more than either girl could have ever known.

The historic atmosphere of this novel lays a fitting scene for this tale, while adding a dusting of magic to create a rich world. Both Mayte's and Loteria's circumstances are brought to light, packed with emotions and pain to draw sympathy. Neither has it easy, and both in very different ways. The reader gains a good understanding of both before they turn to Fortune's Kiss...and the reasons behind their decision to wager everything is more than understandable. The tale switches back and forth between the two girl's perspectives, and during their time in Fortune's Kiss, their real souls and intentions are laid bare. Neither is perfect, and the author demonstrates how pain and experience weave in thorns and scars to warp good intentions. At times, it did seem like both girls were a bit distanced from the reader, but in general, both are easy to root for...even if this is a rollercoaster, at times.

The darker corners of the human soul are examined in these pages and show how even the purest wish might not be as glowing as it first appears. People are even good at fooling themselves. But there's a sense of hope, selfishness, and true friendship to keep a ray of hope even in darker moments. Considering the violence and cruelty, at times, the rays are needed. 

This does hold a few triggers surrounding drugs, family violence, alcoholism, a tad bit of gore, and nods toward human trafficking (although this last one is very light). All of this weaves into the tale well to work its purpose and bring across the messages without drudging deeper than necessary. 

It creates a grabbing read, where the next twist is hard to see coming and nothing is as it first appears.