Review of Roots and Rituals: Reclaiming Appalachian Wisdom Through Seasonal Practices #bookreviews

Buy Roots and Rituals on Amazon

A well-researched, comprehensive guide

This book is a comprehensive guide to Appalachian folklore and how it is linked to the seasons and nature. There are rituals for each season with complete instructions on how to achieve this connection to Earth’s cycles. It’s about finding balance and harmony.

I didn’t know much about Appalachian folklore until now. It combines Celtic traditions with Appalachian ones using rituals involving water, fire-gazing, the moon, and the sun. There are also lessons on crafting amulets, tea brewing, candle magic, meditation, and storytelling. I found the writing engaging, and I also enjoyed the enchanting illustrations throughout the book.

I learned about different herbs and their properties, how to gather them, store them, and use them in rituals.

I found this book fascinating, and while it focuses on Appalachian traditions, I feel the basic principles can be applied to any area. I’m inspired to better connect to my land and learn more about the rich Native American history where I live.

This passage from Roots and Rituals sums it all up: “This deep-rooted connection to the cycles of nature is the cornerstone of Appalachian magic, a practice that honors the rhythms of the Earth and aligns with them to bring balance, harmony, and meaning to life.”

I highly recommend this book for people interested in Appalachian folklore, rituals, and connecting with nature to help yourself find harmony in your everyday life.

Book Review--Understanding and Managing Depression and Stress by Josephine Spire

 

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-managing-depression-Stress-Josephine-ebook/dp/B06XRJB9C4/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k7ko5BX2bf_QHyAOXwkyJJzR1uRRMh2ej3da-1V2Txve10uDHFptDqdJF1hijQo4kqmBAaL20gx8z_KhVmo3_JEqKOVgbst7_YHDb5XmqUk.-n4L5qlbbj3GeqoD1P0razPxVuufqqJ7U3_Uj4UFZKw&dib_tag=se&qid=1712249711&refinements=p_27%3AJosephine+Spire&s=digital-text&sr=1-1&text=Josephine+Spire

5 stars

A helpful, comprehensive guide

I was looking forward to reading this book because I have had bouts of stress. Who isn’t stressed out in this crazy world we live in?

The author starts off by explaining different types of depression and stress, causes of depression and stress, how these affect our bodies, followed by techniques for coping with these mental health problems. She also outlines treatments like medication, seeing a therapist, and other options like alternative therapies. It’s important to note that severe depression should be treated by a licensed professional.

What I found interesting is how much a healthy diet plays an important part in our mental well-being. I didn’t connect these before now.

There were many useful techniques like self-hypnosis and relaxation for coping on a daily basis. I found these useful for my own stress. Mindfulness was also something I’d heard about, but I never fully understood it until now.

Overall, this is a complete guide to recognizing depression and stress and then seeking the help you need. There are also some helpful resources listed at the end of this book. Highly recommended.

 

Book Review of Tales From the Eerie Canal #anthologies #fantasy #horror

 4 stars

Dark and thought-provoking

This anthology of short stories fed the darker half of my soul. They reminded me of the Twilight Zone, of which I am a fan. Ms. Rein's talent is apparent in her ability to both scare and challenge this reader's grasp of the unknown.

Amazon Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BH99QKJZ/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

Book Reviews: The Raven Spell by Luanne G. Smith #paranormal #victorian

 

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Raven-Spell-Luanne-G-Smith-ebook/dp/B093SHTLLB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2WC6WJOCB6DAK&keywords=the+raven+spell&qid=1648482283&sprefix=the+raven+spell%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1

5 Stars

Mystery, magic, and mayhem

The author weaves a plot with the skill of a witch weaving magic.

Edwina and Mary Blackwood are more than strange even among fellow witches. Mary’s fascination with death and stealing memories sets her apart and stirs fear in others. Edwina tries her best to protect her sister, but giving into one’s darkest desires has grave consequences.

Ian is left for dead, but he awakens with his memories gone. His life is entwined with the sister witches as he tries to solve a string of London murders.

This Victorian London paranormal mystery thriller is filled with surprises. The author’s well-crafted descriptions drew me into the story and held me spellbound. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.

Book Review of The Shadow Box by Luanne Rice #Suspense #mystery

 

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Box-Luanne-Rice-ebook/dp/B082SX9CXQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+shadow+box&qid=1634605110&sr=8-1

Some suspense and an enjoyable read

I enjoyed this thriller focused on abuse of power and domestic abuse, mainly because of the strong female lead who fought for her life.

Claire is a strong woman who fights for survival against an abusive, power-hungry husband. She’s willing to risk her life to expose Griffin’s dark past even after he tries to kill her. This isn’t a spoiler. She knows who her attacker is right from the start. The suspense is how she goes about taking him down.

Conor is a detective trying to find the truth. He has to overcome obstacles from powerful people protecting the guilty. He was a typical good-guy cop. Would have liked to see at least one flaw.

I was rooting for Claire, and most of the plot twists kept me guessing until the end. The shifts in time from different POV characters was a little confusing at first, but I got through it. The subject matter seems torn from the news headlines of corrupt rich white people, domestic violence, and environmental issues, but the story kept my interest anyway. The Connecticut coastal setting was a compelling character of its own, and the bit of the mystical entwined in the tale was interesting. I liked Claire, but she made some stupid decisions. She weds a guy she has some reservations about, and she leaves a guy who treats her well. She does make up for this, but it’s almost too late for her. I realize this wasn’t a romance, but I would have liked to see something spark between Claire and Conor at the end. I also hoped that it wasn’t Griffin who tried to kill her. There were other suspects that could have done it, and it might have made the story more interesting. It’s not a groundbreaking story but a nice diversion, and I do like the author’s smooth, engaging writing style.

 

Book Review of Through the Door: The Thin Veil Book 1 by Jodi McIsaac #Fantasybooks #Irishmyths

 

4 stars. A refreshing, contemporary take on the Tuatha de Danann myths.

Cedar’s life is about to change in ways she never imagined. One minute, she’s a single mom, then ext she’s meeting people who claim to be Irish fae. Plus, her daughter, Eden, can open doorways to other places.

Finn never knew he had a daughter when he left Ceder in order to protect her. Now, he must find a way to save his daughter from an evil Danann king.

I love stories of the Irish fae, and this one was a joy to read. Cedar fought bravely to save her daughter, and she handled it well. The secrets she learns about her true identity don’t scare her away from what she must do. The plot kept my interest, and there were some surprises at the end. Overall, this was a great read, and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

 

 

Book Review of Apprentice: The Last Witch of Rome: Book One by Rhett Gervais

 

Amazon buy link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B089FCCP9Y?notRedirectToSDP=1&ref_=dbs_mng_calw_0&storeType=ebooks

5 Stars.

A mixture of history and magic led by a strong female.

After her people are betrayed by Rome, Vesper has lost everything, and she must make a dark deal in order to survive certain death in the gladiator ring.

Narcissus is a hardened gladiator and doctore. He’s never met anyone like Vesper.

More than a corrupt emperor rules Rome. Something terrible is slaughtering innocent people. Vesper is at the center of this evil. Only she can stop it, but she needs to understand her inherited powers as a djambe.

I love that Vesper is a strong female. There is a blossoming romance between her and the bearlike Celt Narcissus, which I enjoyed, but I wouldn’t label this story a romance. The fight scenes are intense and stunning. African magic used against the backdrop of Rome weaves a special kind of concoction. This is an exciting and mystical action-packed story led by a badass female. There are some threads that weren’t fully tied up, but I’m sure this is because this is an ongoing series, and those threads will be dealt with later on. This is a series that should be read in order. Highly recommended if you like historical fantasy set in ancient Rome. I look forward to reading the next book.

 

 

 

 

Book Review of Hellish by Tina Glasneck, Norse Mythology Romance

 

Amazon buy link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BZHHCMW/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i9

3 stars Compelling twist, worthy plot, but something was missing

Helena (Hel) has been cursed to remain on Earth until she finds true love. Harley is a college student trying to find himself. The mysterious, leather-clad Helena fascinates him, and he is caught up in an unbelievable self-journey.

I liked both Helena and Harley, but I didn’t feel the attraction, that magical spark, between them. Their romance fell flat for me.

I was hoping for more from this author. The cover is great, I loved the title, the blurb was intriguing, and I love Norse mythology, but I was disappointed. The story seemed rushed, and I didn’t feel the love or attraction between the characters, but I liked the plot. It was a good story, but it could have been better.

 

Book Review of Only One Man Will Do by Fiona McGier, Erotica Romance

 

Buy Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1012961

3.5 stars. A wild, orgasmic Harley ride with heart and lots of whiskey and vodka.

The fiery, independent Alexandra meets her match in the hunky, stoic Russia Dmitri. This book is part of a series, but I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. This is a separate erotica/romance between these two characters.

Alexandra is a brilliant businesswoman by day and wild biker queen on the weekend. Dmitri is hired to rein her in but finds himself drawn to the brazen red-haired female.

This is more than just an erotica story. Alex comes to terms with her need to never be controlled by a man, something that haunts her after her father left her mother. She puts on a tough act, and Dmitri refuses to put up with her screwing around, a character trait I liked about him.

At times Alex came off a little too intense and annoying with her “I am a woman, and I can screw any man I want” attitude, but I understood why she acted this way.

I enjoyed this story. I love strong female leads. However, I wanted to see more depth. The plot was predictable and considering Alexander’s strong stance against being tied down to one man, she seemed to give in too quickly to Dmitri. I expected her to fight this more. Dmitri was still a mystery to me at the end, and I wanted to know more about his KGB past. Also, I wanted to know more about this world of corporate power and biker gangs led by a female. Of course, these are my expectations. Most erotica fans will probably be satisfied with all the hot sex, and the author did not disappoint in that area. Overall, this was a good story.

 

 

 

 

Book Review, NIGHTSHATTER: A Werewolf Thriller (Nightshifter Book 2 of 5) by L.E. Horn

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0871LB5PR/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_dp

Five Stars! A great second book in the series.

This book continues from where book one left off. Liam must find a cure for the wulfan virus that is causing madness. He is infected and doesn't have much time before he goes mad. With his mate's support, he grows strong. Lots of action, suspense, humor, male bonding, and a touch of romance kept me turning the pages. I really like the author's style, too. This is more of a realistic werewolf series rather than a supernatural one, and the rich detail of the transformations was fascinating. Perhaps werewolves are real after all.

Book review: Magnar (The Wolves of Clan Sutherland Book 1) by Mary Morgan

Amazon buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Magnar-Wolves-Clan-Sutherland-Book-ebook/dp/B08DCDYT4S/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=magnar&qid=1607478998&sr=8-2

An enjoyable mix of history, magic, and steamy romance.

There was a lot I liked about this book. I loved the two main characters. I liked that Magnar wasn't perfect and struggled with his baser side, his wolf. I really liked that Elspeth was strong and wasn't a damsel in distress. From the first page, I was drawn into the story by the author's skillful way of capturing the historical setting. I loved the mix of history and magic, though I wouldn't really call this a shifter story. The wolf shifting was part of the tale, but this was more of a story about growing love between two very different people. I did enjoy the interactions between these two character, especially how she challenged him. The passionate love scenes set this romance on fire. Oh my.

What I wanted to see more of was conflict between the two characters. It seemed a little too easy for Elspeth to accept Magnar's heathen beliefs and fall in love with him after their arranged marriage. I guess I just wanted to see her struggle with this a little more. Other than that, this was a near-perfect read. I'd give it a 4.5 if I could. I look forward to more from this author. Highly recommended!

Book Review of Autumn Nights: 13 Spooky Fall Reads

I gave this book five stars. Compelling, spooky reads from some talented writers.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X94GHSV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_d_asin_title_o03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These well-written spooky tales are perfect for the darker time of the year. I was looking for some short stories to read and I stumbled upon this anthology. I'm glad I did. Some tales are scary, some are humorous, but all the stories were great and kept me turning the pages. If I must pick some favorites, they would be From Hell, The Teller Tree, My Own Dark Way, and Courting Death. Highly recommended for a short, spooky journey into other worlds.

Employment Interview with a Vampire Book Review

A fun read. Four stars.

I was looking for something short and fun to read and I came across Employment Interview with a Vampire. This was just what I needed. It's funny, engaging, and well written. I liked the main character, Deirdre. I could relate to her and all her normal problems most people face each day. Her interactions with her vampire boss and the ghosts had me smiling. If you are looking for a short, light read, I highly recommend this story.

Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Employment-Interview-Vampire-Housekeeper-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007GAHVX6/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=employment+interview+with+a+vampire&qid=1603589655&s=digital-text&sr=1-2

Book Review: The Burnt Watcher--Suspense, Horror, Fantasy, Magic

https://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Watcher-Fear-Book-ebook/dp/B08964Q14H/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+burnt+watcher&qid=1592441340&s=books&sr=1-1

I gave it 5 stars on Amazon/Thought-provoking and suspenseful.

Five hundred years ago the old world burned and Fear rose from the ashes and Glass. Master Grey is a Watcher, chosen to seek out and fight the Fear. He is retired now but is called back to investigate strange happenings in a small village in the west of England. The story keeps a good pace that kept my attention with suspense and conflict. We gradually learn more about Master Grey and how his life as a Watcher ended in tragedy. When he comes out of retirement, he is met with suspicion since most of those in the village don't believe there is any danger. I liked the world the author created and how the Fear is an entity seeking something, possibly vengeance or power. Maybe both. There is also a strong main female character who I liked a lot. If you like a bit of suspense, horror, fantasy, and magic, then this is for you.

Review of A Spell Takes Root by Keith Hendricks

A Spell Takes Root: An Epic Fantasy by Keith Hendricks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great world-building
Too many long descriptions bogged down the beginning for me, but once I got past that, I enjoyed immersing myself in the world the author created filled with adventure and action. I liked passages like this one: “Which is not to say that the goblin woman laughed like a lady, but with a sharp scowl that would have cut the manhood from Khyte if it could.” This story is for fans of unique fantasy worlds.


View all my reviews

Monday Musings: Book review of Words Will Break Cement: The Passion of Pussy Riot

After reading this book, I am so grateful to live in a country where citizens are free to voice their political views. I think what frightened me the most about this story is that it’s true.

Three young women living in Russia, Nadezhda Tolokonnikova (Nadya), Maria Alyokhina, and Yekaterina Samutsevich, were found guilty of hooliganism and went to prison (one was finally given a suspended sentence) because they spoke out against Putin and his tyranny. One of the most horrific parts in this book described the conditions of these prisons. The “prisons” aren’t fit for animals let alone human beings. Atrocious is the word that pops in my head. Along with living in terrible conditions, inmates are subjected to mistreatment by guards for doing something like complaining about the horrible conditions. For example, if an inmate complained about lack of hot water, all the water would be shut off for all the inmates.

These women showed amazing strength throughout their ordeal. This book takes us from the beginning with backgrounds on the women, their foray into political activism, the emergence of Pussy Riot, their fateful performance that got them arrested, the harrowing trial (another example of human rights violations), and finally their imprisonment.

A quote from Maria’s court statement: “And I am not afraid of you. I am not afraid of lies and fictions and of poorly coded deception in the verdict of this so-called court, because all of you can take away my inner freedom, the only sort that exists in the Russian Federation. But no one can take away my inner freedom.” She closes with this: “I believe that openness and public speech and a hunger for the truth make us all a little bit freer.”

I greatly admire these women for their heroism and strength to fight for better conditions and rights for all. They had the courage to speak out against Putin’s atrocities, and they were successful in encouraging others to do the same. If they had failed, they wouldn’t have scared Putin into having them arrested.

Pussy Riot lives on as an example of feminine power and courage.

Kelley Heckart

Otherworldly tales steeped in myth, magic & romance.

http://www.kelleyheckart.com

http://kelleysrealm.blogspot.com/

http://twitter.com/CelticChick

https://www.facebook.com/kelleyheckartauthor

http://www.goodreads.com/kheckart

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Kelley-Heckart/e/B002BMOQ3C

Review for The Wolf Queen by Long and Short Reviews

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/book-reviews/the-wolf-queen-by-kelley-heckart/

5 stars! Review quote: "A read any paranormal reader could love and one I highly recommend." Click on the above link for the full review.

Favorite Friday: Sharing a favorite book about Druid beliefs

The Druid Way Made Easy by Graeme K. Talboys

The Druid Way Made Easy is separated into three parts. Part I introduces readers to the general history of the Celts; Part II explains briefly the basic tenets of Druidry: The Inner World, The Outer World and the Otherworld; Part III goes over the Organization of the Druid Way, Ceremonial and Ritual Practice and Being Druid in the World; and the book ends with Further Reading, a useful list of books on the Celts and Druids.

This short, enjoyable read is a great introduction to the way of a modern Druid. We will never know details about ancient Druids, but we do know they lived in harmony with nature. They understood the equal importance of the material and spiritual worlds and maintaining a balance between them. I think readers will appreciate the short but detailed explanations of these beliefs. In this chaotic era of extremism, everyone could benefit from the lessons on living in harmony, not just with nature but with ourselves and others. I recommend starting with this book and then selecting some books on the further reading list to deepen your understanding of Druids and their beliefs.

Amazon Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Druid-Way-Made-Easy-ebook/dp/B0056A1HLU%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAIOJGEB6643FVTU7Q%26tag%3Dwwwobookscom-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB0056A1HLU

Moon Books: http://www.moon-books.net/books/druid-way-made-easy-the

 

 

 

 

Kelley Heckart, Historical fantasy romance author

Captivating...Sensual...Otherworldly

http://www.kelleyheckart.com

http://kelleysrealm.blogspot.com/

http://twitter.com/CelticChick

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelley-Heckart/111838455604

New review for Cat's Curse on ecataromance

White Rose of Avalon

I received a new review for Cat's Curse from ecataromance. My favorite review quote:
She's a vampire, he's a cursed warrior; can true love keep them together?

3.5 stars! This was a remarkable book to read. It has all the earmarks of an enduring romance: suspense, danger, misunderstandings, true love and great sex. At the same time, it also has the elements of a wonderful fantasy story. The author’s detailed descriptions in the book brings you into the land she’s created, a fascinating escape from the day to day drudgery of our lives. I’m looking forward to the next book of this wonderful trilogy.

Reviewed by Kris Plausky at ecataromance

Link to complete review: http://sensual.ecataromance.com/index.php?p=3590

Book Two, Beltaine's Song will be out soon from Awe-Struck!

Kelley Heckart

'Timeless tales of romance, conflict & magic'

http://www.kelleyheckart.com

http://twitter.com/CelticChick

http://www.goodreads.com/kheckart

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelley-Heckart/111838455604

http://www.myspace.com/phantomqueen3

Two new reviews for Cat's Curse

I received two new reviews for Cat's Curse. One is a reviewer top pick so I am excited about that one.
Score: 4.50 / 5 - Reviewer Top Pick! This amazing story is very refreshing in the current romance genre.The storyline had a bunch of twists and turns that kept my attention and intrigued me with anticipation. I so wanted to know the outcome of this unlikely romance. Many interesting characters and love triangles make for a refreshing story that is not as neatly tied up as most romance novels of today, but has managed to make me a fan of the author's style. I am eagerly looking forward to reading the next book (Beltaine's Song), Book Two in the Dark Goddess Trilogy, as I have become addicted to the strength, courage and real human facets of the characters in this saga.

Reviewed by: Lydia Ferrari
Link to complete review:
http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nightowlromance/reviews/Review.aspx?daoid=5194


I found myself engrossed with how everything evolved. Cardea is an exceedingly winsome heroine. The reader can see her strength and development. I am excited to read the next book.

Rated 3 ½ Tombstones by CeCe at Bitten By Books

Link to complete review:
http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=18196

Beltaine's Song, Book Two in the Dark Goddess Trilogy is coming soon from Awe-Struck!