bookreviewer – Page 80 – Sincerely Karen Jo

Northwoods Magic

(Northwoods Fairy Tales #1)

Desiree Lafawn

5 ★ – Fantastic Paranormal Romance

PUBLISHED BY CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform JULY 24, 2017

GENRE(S): FANTASY, PARANORMAL, ROMANCE

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Quinn Reynolds is desperate for answers. After a near fatal accident, Quinn’s life changes and she is suddenly plagued by dreams of ravens, magic, and a boy with copper-ringed eyes. Told by her doctors that she is delusional, Quinn travels to the Northwoods of Minnesota to find out the truth. But Quinn has another problem that she hasn’t shared. Not only does she dream of magic, she also possesses her own power as well and it scares the hell out of her.

Corbin Olsen has been battling his own demons for the last ten years. After sacrificing everything to save Quinn’s life, she forgot about him completely. He’s thought of her constantly in the years she’s been gone, but nothing prepared him for the woman she has become. Although angry at her for leaving him, Corbin isn’t able to dismiss his need for her.

But Corbin and Quinn are running out of time for a meaningful reunion, the real evil is back and hunting the prey that escaped them all those years ago.

Northwoods Magic by Desiree Lafawn will leave you spellbound for days and eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Lafawn’s writing is enchanting and easy to read. The world building is well-developed and fascinated me. I’ve always loved the supernatural and the idea of magic so I definitely enjoyed that part of the book. The storyline is so creative and intriguing. Lafawn also does a terrific job creating suspense and slowly unraveling the mysteries that I had a difficult time putting the book down. The characters, magical or not, are interesting, quirky and likable. I also really loved the humor, playful teasing, and heartwarming moments that had me smiling and laughing.

Quinn is withdrawn, socially awkward, and seemingly weak in every way. BUT given her past, I could see why and my heart just broke for her. While she lacks self-confidence, I definitely don’t see her as a damsel in distress. In fact, she’s quite determined, a bit feisty, and stronger that she could ever imagine. I enjoyed watching her grow and transform into the type of heroine I always root for to no end. I’m really excited to learn more about her and the magic she possesses.

Corbin…where do I even begin with him?! He’s definitely the more than meets the eye irresistible brooding love interest. He’s charming, devastatingly handsome, and sexy. On top of that, he has quite a unique past and history. I don’t want to give too much away, but I was immediately drawn to him and could not stop myself from swooning.

So in case you haven’t guessed, there is definitely a strong insta-love in this book. This is probably one of the most intense insta-love I’ve read in a while, but oddly enough, it just worked for me. Was it over the top? YES. Cheesy? A bit…okay a lot. And honestly, I loved every moment of it. I’m a big romance addict and I’ll take it in every which way. Not to mention Quinn and Corbin are totally adorable together. Their chemistry is absolutely insane and gave me all the FEELS.

This story is engaging and full of intrigue. It has the perfect balance of magic, mystery, angst, humor, and romance. But more than anything, Northwoods Magic has heart. I love the themes and important messages weaved throughout the story. So be prepared to be enthralled, to love, to cry, and to laugh. I definitely did, and I’m absolutely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

I received an copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for a fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Follow and Connect with Desiree Lafawn: Website / Facebook / Goodreads

Thanks for reading!

Sincerely Karen Jo

Kalifus Rising

(Legends of Orkney #2)

Alane Adams

5 ★ – A Marvelous and Magical Adventure

PUBLISHED BY SPARKPRESS SEPTEMBER 6, 2016

GENRE(S) MIDDLE GRADE, FANTASY, MYTHOLOGY

PAGES: PAPERBACK 384

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Sam Baron just freed Orkney from the ravages of the Red Sun–but now, imprisoned by Catriona, leader of the Volgrim Witches, Sam finds the darker side of his half-god, half-witch heritage released, and he fears he might destroy what he saved. Unable to resist the witches’ enchantments, Sam has become their most potent weapon, and is leading an army of monstrous men against Skara Brae. Sam’s only hope for salvation lies with his three best friends and a mystical artifact known as the Moon Pearl. Keely travels north in search of the pearl, while Howie prepares for the gathering onslaught. Leo seeks a powerful artifact in the underworld, and faces an ancient evil that could be an even greater threat than Catriona and her cronies. As Sam’s friends rush to save him, other forces are at work in Orkney’s shadows–forces that could help free Sam, or condemn him to the darkness forever.

It is sooo good to be back in Orkney! I’ve forgotten how much I miss this place and the super lovable characters!

Kalifus Rising follows Keely, Howie and Leo as they try to save Sam and ultimately all of Orkney. Alane Adams definitely amps up the adventure, the thrills, the twists, the humor and really everything else. Her writing is beautiful, vivid, and incredibly imaginative. Once again, I found myself being carried away into this magical world. The plot is engaging and full of surprises that I never really knew what was going to happen. Just when I thought I figured something out, Adams would throw another curve ball and I absolutely loved it! The mythological aspect was utterly captivating and creative. The characters are just the best and I honestly have mad love for all of them. This book is just full of so much awesome and excitement that you’ll be reading way past your bedtime and dreaming about Orkney.

The character development in this installment is amazing. Adams writes with a tremendous heart and you can feel how much she cares about the characters that you can’t help but care about them too. You’ll cheer them on, feel for them and the whole nine yards. I truly enjoyed watching Sam, Keely, Howie, and Leo go on fun adventures, deal with impossible situations, figure out and solve problems, and grow into their roles. I don’t want to reveal too much, but this quirky group of kid heroes… well they are absolutely charming and so fun and I seriously love them! I do have to mention that Keely is definitely my favorite throughout the story. She’s determined and so badass and I adored her with all my heart. Oh and I also really liked the side characters like Mavery (gosh I miss that little imp so much), Rego, and Teren… the old and new and yes even the villains like Catriona and Endera. They’re unique, interesting and delightful in their own ways.

Kalifus Rising is without a doubt one of the best sequels I’ve ever read. I love the characters, the mystery, the adventure, and everything else in between. I love the themes Adams weaves into this crazy FUNTASTIC tale (self-discovery, courage, loyalty, family, friendship, forgiveness and so much more). You’ll definitely be walking away with a smile on your face, a happy heart, and a chest full of life lessons. Definitely go check this out right now and add it to your TBR.

As I’m writing this review, I’m more than 70% done with the third and final book. I’m totally dreading the end, but I can’t wait to see how Adams concludes this series.

Huge thanks to Alane Adams for sending me all three copies (and they’re signed too) of this marvelous series. I will treasure them and Orkney forever.

Follow and Connect with Alane Adams: Website / Instagram / Twitter / Facebook

Hope you enjoyed this review!

Sincerely Karen Jo