Book Review: Destined for Doon

I hope like how I redecorated on my blog!

If you recall, last December, I wrote about a book called Doon by Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon. I wrote in frustration of the cliffhanger the book ended with. Well, my misery has ended somewhat as the second book Destined for Doon has been published. I bought it and read it within a few days.

About the Book

Destined for Doon

Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon

In this sequel to Doon, Mackenna Reid realizes she made a horrible mistake in choosing to follow her dreams of Broadway instead of staying in the enchanted land of Doon. To make everything worse, she's received her Calling—proof she and Duncan are each other's one true love—and it's pure torment, especially when visions of the very alluring Scottish prince appear right before she goes on stage. So when Duncan tells her an ancient curse threatens to overtake Doon and the new queen and Kenna’s best friend, Veronica, needs her to return, Kenna doesn't have to think twice. With darkness closing in on all sides, Kenna and Vee must battle a world of nightmares in order to protect the kingdom. But it will take the ultimate test of courage for Kenna to salvage her happily ever after.

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My Review

Destined for Doon picks up where Doon left off. Kenna, as expected, makes it back to Doon, but her relationship with Duncan is ruined. Meanwhile, Veronica is trying to fit into her new position as queen. However, Jamie is having a hard time relinquishing control and is extremely overprotective in her eyes.

Then they are faced with a horrible curse called the limbus. It literally zombifies anything that touches it and it is slowly surrounding and infecting the entire nation. How can they stop it, when they can’t even go near it? Add to that the fact that it is invisible…

I enjoyed this book. It is the continuation of a story I am interested in, set in a beautiful world with lots of adventure. The characters are interesting and unique. I loved that Kenna is always singing and mentioning musicals; it brings her to life in that even her thought life is affected bu the things she loves. Also, Vee and Kenna’s friendship is beautiful. The constantly comment on how they “share each other’s brain” which shows the depth of their friendship. I also enjoyed the plotline, which is the main thing I consider when liking a book. It held my attention with a mix of romance and crisis.

Destined for Doon didn’t pull from me the same emotions as the first, however. Part the reason for this is the fact that much of the turmoil between the couples are misunderstandings which could be rectified if they would just talk and actually listen to each other. Of course, the existence of misunderstandings is probably a pretty accurate portrayal of any relationship.

The curse was interesting. The authors never really explained how the witch made it since Vee and Kenna stripped her of her powers in the first book. How then could she have revived the curse, and where exactly is she? I assume it will be explained in the third book in the series, especially since this book is a cliffhanger as well.

I enjoyed this book and look forward to the sequel as an answer to my questions and a hopefully epic conclusion to the series.

Pre-Order Party for the "Unexpected Bride" by Lena Goldfinch

 

Some of you might remember a blog tour I hosted this spring called "Lena's Sweet Spring Reads." The blog tour promoted several fantasy/paranormal books by author Lena Goldfinch. I really enjoyed her books and was super excited to join this Pre-Order Party for her newest book, The Unexpected Bride, the first in a series of western historical romances. I am certain it will be as thrilling as Lena's previous novels. It will be released on October 6, so mark your calendars!

About the Book

The Unexpected Bride

Lena Goldfinch 

What's a man to do when his father orders him a bride?

Rebecca Sullivan has been "Becky" all her life, a real hoyden. Her childhood sweetheart taught her to ride bareback and shoot a rifle, but then he chose a "perfect lady" for a wife—a real Southern belle, who's now expecting a baby. Heartbroken, Becky signs up to be a mail-order bride to a Seattle man, sight unseen. She resolves to squelch her hoydenish ways and become a "perfect lady" for her future husband.

If logging-operation owner Isaac Jessup had wanted a bride, he'd have chosen a sturdy frontier woman, not some fragile lady from back East. Ready to explain the mistake, honorable Isaac takes one look into Rebecca's vulnerable eyes...and knows he'll marry her, even though this delicate waif is obviously unsuited for wild Seattle.

 

Could an unexpected marriage be a match made in heaven?

 

Book One in The Brides Series
Sweet Historical Western Romance / A Mail-Order Bride Novel

 

Release Date: October 6th, 2014

Available for pre-order in ebook format:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Google Play | iTunes | Kobo

 

 

Author Bio

LENA GOLDFINCH writes romance and fantasy for adults and teens. She’s a sucker for a good old-fashioned romance, whether it’s a novel, novella, or short story, young adult or adult, fantasy or realistic, contemporary or historical. Elements of romance, fantasy, and mystery have a way of creeping into her writing, even when she's writing historicals or something light and contemporary. Lena has been a finalist in several national writing contests, including the RWA Golden Heart and ACFW Genesis contests. She lives in a scenic small town in Massachusetts with her husband, two kids, and a very spoiled Black Lab. Visit Lena at www.LenaGoldfinch.blogspot.com.

 

 

Excerpt

 

The lean-to was chilly and not for the first time, Isaac considered boarding it up proper and calling it a barn. He sat on the stool and began milking the goat, all the while mentally preparing for the worship service they planned to go to later that morning. The Scriptures he'd read first thing that morning were fresh in his mind, and his prayers kept returning to the problem of Rebecca. One inner voice urged him to send her back home, but another voice spoke of commitment. He'd said vows before God to love and keep her till death do them part. Those weren't words he was willing to dismiss lightly.

"What's her name?" Her voice was suddenly in his ear, quite close.

Isaac jumped. The goat bleated at him.

"Sorry, girl." He patted her side and resumed milking her with slow, careful hands. He glanced over his shoulder toward the subject of his thoughts.

Rebecca stood watching him, leaning over the rail and peering in at them with curious eyes. He was surprised to see her out this early. She usually left him to his morning chores, and most times he'd get back inside the cabin and find her already up preparing breakfast.

"What's her name?" she repeated.

"Name? The goat?" He looked at the goat dumbly. It was a goat. He'd never gotten much further than that. She gave them a daily supply of milk, but other than that she was generally a nuisance. She liked to butt down the stall door. And whenever she got loose, she'd eat what few vegetables he was able to grow in the summer. She also liked to nip at his shirts and underthings when he hung them out on the line--if he was lucky. Most times she'd tug the whole line down and drag it through the mud.

"Yes, the goat," Rebecca said, a pleasant-sounding smile in her voice. "Don't tell me she hasn't got a name?"

There was something nice about hearing a woman's voice in the morning. It reminded him a little of when he was young, and his mother had chatted with him in soft tones while they ate breakfast. As if speaking too loud would jar them too quickly out of whatever dreams they'd had the night before.

Rebecca's soft voice put him much in mind of those times.

"All right. I won't." Isaac focused on his milking.

"She doesn't have a name?" Rebecca pressed. "How can you have an animal that doesn't have a name?"

"Never gave it much thought. She's good for milk, but other than that she's nothing but trouble, always munching on the laundry."

"Well, then I think your choice is clear. Either you call her Milky or you call her Trouble." Her teasing tone brought a reluctant smile to his lips.

"Well, then, if I have to choose, then I guess she's Trouble."

The real Trouble was standing behind him, her elbow propped against the top of the rail, her chin cupped in one dainty hand.

 

Rafflecopter Giveaway

Celebrate the upcoming release of Lena Goldfinch’s new historical romance with this sweet giveaway! One winner will receive a book locket necklace from the Lily Pickford Etsy shop, as well as a paperback copy of The Unexpected Bride. Open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only.
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mark of Distinction

Mark of Distinction
Jessica Dotta

Description

London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.

Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.

Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan.
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My Review

Mark of Distinction, by Jessica Dotta, is the continuation of the story of Julia…whatever her last name is (she has several). Julia struggles with her identity as she is thrust into the world of the gentry as the esteemed Lord Pierson’s daughter and Mr. Isaac Dalry’s intended. How can she embrace this world when her heart is back home with Edward and Elizabeth and with Mr. Macy threatening her at every turn?

I enjoyed this book very much, but not as much as I enjoyed the first book Born of Persuasion. This is due in part because Julia spends much of her time moping or locked in her father’s house. I had also wished Mr. Macy was good—he could have made and amazing husband to Julia if he was who he originally said—but he is proved more and more evil as time goes by.

In any case, the book was a little disappointing in that it did not surprise me at every turn as did the first book. The sending was a surprise, a very good one, in fact, but the surprise was utterly improbably considering the circumstances.
On the good side, Julia is becoming less and less the naïve girl she began the first book as. She is growing and maturing as the story progresses.

Also, the story is yet rich with unique personalities. Each character is a study in human behavior. The book shows the result of bitterness through one character as well as a son and daughter choosing to be different than their parents, specifically their parents’ mistakes and weaknesses. 

In all, Mark of Distinction has its ups and downs but still points to an epic conclusion in the third and final novel. I can hardly wait!

Born of Persuasion

Born of Persuasion
Jessica Dotta

My Review

Born of Persuasion, by Jessica Dotta, is the story of a young woman who lost everything. Julia puts all her hopes for the future on Edward, who secretly proposed to her many years before. Yet when her hopes are dashed early on, she hires Lady Foxmore, a woman with dreadful rumors surrounding her name, to find her a rich, titled husband. Who will Lady Foxmore find? Will Edward yet come through for her?

Born of Persuasion is reminiscent of Pride Prejudice, with its time period, myriad of personalities, and society. Yet, this book is certainly an original.

I absolutely loved Born of Persuasion! There were so many plot twists, I could never predict the entirety of what would happen next. The sweet little story I thought it was at the beginning turned into a plot of intrigue and chicanery, but I loved it. 

Born of Persuasion comes from a Christian publishing company and has many Christian themes in it, but it is told from the point of view of an atheist who was shunned by her town and vicar because of her beliefs. I appreciated the new perspective it gave, especially since it came from a Christian author.

One thing that irritated me a little is that the main character, Julia, is a bit naïve and foolish. She made many poor decisions, putting her in compromising situations resulting in scandalous rumors and bad reputations even if she had done nothing wrong within the situations. Hopefully, though, Julia will become wiser in the following novels.

Overall, though, it was a masterfully written book and I can’t wait to begin the second.

Entertaining Angels

I haven't posted on here in an age. I hope you all will forgive me. I was busy, but I may begin posting somewhat regularly now.

I'm afraid I couldn't find a better photo.

My Review

Entertaining Angels, by Emerald Barnes, is the inspiring story of a young woman who overcomes her insecurity. Madison begins the story as an overweight, depressed teenager, but her best friend Chase and the hot new boy at school, Zack, help her fight her insecurity with encouraging words and prayers. Ultimately, God’s truth about His creations’ beauty wins. Yet, the story twists and turns—which boy will she choose, what will the horrible Ashley do next, and what does the title have to do with the story?

I loved the story. It was sweet, a little predictable, but I have read few books that were not predictable in some way. The story was more made to encourage the readers than to be original. I was glad that Jesus Christ was the one who gave Madison self-worth, not herself, her friends, or her popularity (or rather, lack of popularity).

One thing I would comment on is that Christianity does not appear to be clearly defined in this book. From the experience Madison had in the church, one might assume that having a special feeling and hearing encouraging words in your head during the worship service automatically makes you a Christian. That is not in the Bible I have read and memorized. It says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved (Acts 16:31)”… “that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures (1Cor 15:3-4).” I just thought I should comment on that. I hope no one is offended.

Aside from that, I think it is a lovely book and I hope some young women out there will be encouraged by it.

Sixteen Blog Tour

Sixteen
Emily Rachelle

Description

Nicole "Nikki" Johnson has never gotten along with her mother, so when she meets a great new guy, it's no surprise that Matt's age is all her mom sees. Just because he's twenty-four and she's sixteen doesn't mean he's a creeper! Thankfully, Nikki's dad allows Nikki and Matt to be together and see how things work out. Their relationship is fantastic and Nikki is on cloud nine...

Until the Fourth of July picnic, when things go too far. Now a very changed Nikki has to make choices that will affect her every relationship - with Matt, her parents, her best friend, and most importantly, God.

Amazon*Smashwords*Goodreads*LibraryThing



Author Bio

Born in Panama, Emily Rachelle has traveled throughout the country and the world with her Air Force family. Currently, she lives with her parents and three brothers in middle Georgia. While Emily enjoyed reading as far back as she remembers, writing didn't come to her until she learned the forms of poetry and the basics of story in fourth grade. Since then, she's written scripts for homeschool dramas, poems for birthday presents, and stories for friends and family to enjoy. Sixteen is her debut into the professional world of words. You can find Emily at her blog, Emily Rachelle Writes.

My Review

Rebellious Nikki starts dating a man several years older than her, against the advice of her parents. Eventually, that decision leads to a terrible a terrible mistake for both of them. This is the story of the consequences, both good and bad, of that mistake.

I liked Sixteen. It was a short, sweet story. Everything worked out perfectly in the end--a little too perfectly in fact. But it was still a good story. With a lot of hard work and sacrifice, the young couple worked out their problems and the consequences of their decisions and did the right thing, which I appreciate.

Also, Sixteen helped show that teen girls and their moms can get along and restore their broken relationships, which is something the media tends to tell us is nonexistent or impossible. Many different broken relationships are restored in this book, which I love.

Sixteen seemed a little rushed overall. Things happened too quickly from the time problems came to the time they were restored. In addition, it seemed too perfect, as though everything would work out exactly perfect even though it must truly be terribly hard in real life. But overall, it was a lovely little story of hope.

Things you should know:  *Spoiler Alert*
There are rebellious teenagers, the main character gets pregnant out of wedlock, and the main character lies a little bit in the beginning.

Guest Post

Emily Rachelle has graciously written a guest post for us called Dream Casting. So without further ado, Emily Rachelle.

Dream Casting

Every author has that thought, somewhere in the back of their mind. After all, part of our lifestyle is to always ask questions. What If is a particular favorite. So it’s only natural to hear that refrain in our minds - what if, what if, what if my book became a movie?

 

Tiny, impossible odds, but a thrilling thought nonetheless. Of course, we’d want a say in the movie’s casting -- not at all a realistic request, but one we’d hold to.

My main character, sixteen-year-old Nikki, is quite the rebel, loves ballerina (and has the body for it), and has long, layered blond curls and bright blue eyes. She’s the easiest to cast, for me. I searched online for “blonde teen actresses,” and when I saw Hayden Panettiere, I knew she was the one. She is so completely perfect and fits my idea of Nikki to a tee. Some colored contacts and this girl is Nikki! Even her personal style reflects Nikki's wardrobe.

Next up: Christy is the sweet, supportive best friend. She's a petite girl with short auburn hair and brown eyes. This one was a bit harder to find, but I think I've discovered the perfect girl for the role - and an actress I already love! Of course, I always thought of this girl as a child actress. It’s kind of weird knowing she’s only two months younger than me. Abigail Breslin (especially with this hair color, although a little less eyeliner) seems like the best fit for Christy.

The twenty-four-year-old love interest Matt is very important to this story. He's charming, blond, and has an amazing smile and sparkling green eyes. I had a hard time finding someone to play him, but a little-known actor named Emerson Smith seems to fit the part pretty well.

If I had to choose a more widely known talent, I’d probably choose William Moseley. I’m not a big fan of Peter, but I guess he fits.

Then there's grown-up Nicole, who's actually at the beginning of the book, and her eighteen-year-old daughter Claire. Adult Nicole has brown-dyed hair in a bob and loves to sew, while Claire is quite the punk (like mother, like daughter!) with her ripped jeans, tank tops, and purple pixie haircut. I'm not good at finding people who resemble each other, much less an adult to look like Hayden all grown up. But I think Carrie Underwood looks a lot like her and is the right age to be adult Nicole. I mean, her hair doesn't match, but it does look like Nicole's natural hair, so a nice dye and cut would do the job I think.

Finding an actress who already looks like Claire is probably going to be impossible, but I think the face shape and personality I'm looking for would be well played by Demi Lovato.

Giveaway
Here is the link to the giveaway, or rather, to Emily Rachelle's blog which has the giveaway on it.
Giveaway

Exodus Rising

Exodus Rising
(Tales of Starlight #3)
Bryan Davis

Adrian Masters continues his relentless march toward the bitterly cold Northlands of Starlight. Ravaged by a deadly disease and accompanied by two children, Adrian carries Marcelle in a vegetative state, hoping Alaph, king of the Northlands, will supply
a way to reunite her near-death body with her wandering spirit.

Time is of the essence. Invading soldiers from Major Four are marching toward the Southlands village to do battle against the dragon slave masters, but two great dangers await—the inescapable disease and the unpredictable Benefile, ageless and mysterious white dragons who will kill any infected humans.

All the while, Drexel, the murderer of Marcelle’s mother, has taken on an impervious disguise as a male Starlighter and is using hypnotic powers to gain control of Mesolantrum with his sights set on the entire kingdom. Adrian and Marcelle must battle to free the slav es on one world and protect their own world from Drexel’s malevolent plan or else the freed slaves will return to Major Four only to find another slave master. Performing both tasks seems impossible.

Hope remains in the guise of the little Starlighter Regina. Guided by Cassabrie, Starlight’s great liberator, Regina hopes to accompany Adrian step by step to thwart the plans of slave masters on both worlds.

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My Review

I loved this book! It was definitely an amazing ending to an amazing series!

There were so many things going on throughout the book. Eradicating the disease, reuniting Marcelle's spirit with her body, Adrian and Marcelle's engagement, a crafty new starlighter determined to take over Mesolantrum and the entire country, and so much more. And these are only things I knew were going to happen since I read the first two books! But I will leave the hows to you to find out.

I loved how everything worked together. This book builds on what happened in the previous books, making it much more exciting, romantic, and dangerous.

The spiritual elements were very good. Marcelle and Adrian both learn much more about trusting the Creator and leaning on Him, not themselves, for their strength, even when it didn't make sense. Also, the villains faced the consequences for their actions, unlike in many books and movies in which liars and thieves succeed and are helped on by their friends, even as the heroes. And yet, mercy triumphed as well for those who were willing to receive it. God gives mercy and justice, a theme that is woven throughout the series.

The only thing I didn't like had to do with Jason, Adrian's brother. Jason is the hero in a teen series of books called Dragons of Starlight set in the same story world. His story fills in all the holes and jagged edges in this series. Anyway, I didn't like that Jason, the mature-ish hero in his own story, is nearly killed as soon as he goes back to his own world! You would think he'd be smarter than that or something, considering all he's just lived through on Starlight! Grr, it was frustrating. Other than that, I have no complaints.

Things you should know:   Spoiler alert!

There is much violence, but it is not gruesome. There are disembodied spirits, kind of like ghosts. One villain has a pocket full of fingers that he cut from the body of the woman he murdered. The characters kiss, and sex is implied, but not done by the characters.