northwoodsmagic – Sincerely Karen Jo

September for me was not that great in terms of reading. I kind of had a reading slump and once that was over, I got sick. I didn’t get to read everything I wanted and fell so behind on my Netgalley TBR. I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed right now, but I’m just trying to take it day by day. Oh and I’m also on a book buy/request ban until I finish at least 3/4 of the books I have to read and review.

Without further ado, here are the books I got through in September. I actually really loved almost everything I read.

To read my full review, just click the title of the book

Summoner by S.D. Grimm

★★★★ 1/2 – FANTASTIC HEARTWRENCHING YA PARANORMAL ROMANCE

I really wasn’t expecting this to be deeply affecting or heartbreaking, but that’s what makes this story brilliant and so powerful. And yes… I absolutely recommend that everyone pick this up!

This Body Won’t Break by Lea Mckee

★★★★★ – THRILLING YA DYSTOPIA

This Body Won’t Break by Lea Mckee is phenomenal and I enjoyed it so much more than I thought I would. Mckee’s writing is gorgeous and atmospheric. It doesn’t take long before the mystery, intrigue, and tension had me completely hooked. I honestly could not stop reading and became more and more anxious by the minute… and I TOTALLY LOVED IT!

Kalifus Rising by Alane Adams

★★★★★ – A MARVELOUS AND MAGICAL ADVENTURE

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. 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.

The Raven God by Alane Adams

★★★★★ – FANTASTIC CONCLUSION

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I’m really going to miss Orkney. This was the perfect conclusion to a fantastic Middle Grade Fantasy. I’ll have my review up really soon. Been falling behind on a lot since I got sick.

Boomerang Boyfriend by Chris Cannon

★★★★ – CUTE FUN TEEN ROMANCE

This was a cute and quick read. I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would, but it was still fun. Full review to come.

Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel

★★★★ 1/2 – DARK THRILLING PARANORMAL ROMANCE

Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel is a wonderful debut novel that reminded me of the reasons why I love paranormal romances. It’s deliciously dark, satisfyingly eerie, and absolutely enthralling. Kassel’s writing is beautiful and utterly captivating. I really liked the premise of the story and the spooky atmosphere. There are so many things I love about this book and I honestly can’t recommend it enough. While this book is perfect for paranormal romance lovers, I definitely think anyone looking for a fun thrilling read would enjoy this too.

Northwoods Magic by Desiree Lafawn

★★★★★ – FANTASTIC PARANORMAL ROMANCE

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. The story is engaging and full of intrigue. It has the perfect balance of magic, mystery, angst, humor, and romance. I’m absolutely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

Reading Slump and getting sick in the same month is the worst! I’m so behind on my reading, reviews, and postings. I feel so meeeh and blahhhh about it. And today is such a downer too, but I really don’t want to talk about it. It’s just a really sad…

Anyway, how did you do with your September TBR? What were some of your favorite books? Let me know in the comments down below!

Take care!!

Sincerely Karen Jo

Northwoods Magic

(Northwoods Fairy Tales #1)

5 ★ – Fantastic Paranormal Romance

PUBLISHED BY CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform JULY 24, 2017

GENRE(S): FANTASY, PARANORMAL, ROMANCE

BUY AMAZON (FREE WITH KINDLE UNLIMITED)

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