The latest collection from Amy B Garratt is beautifully written. Topics are diverse and include: motherhood, the gardener (her mother,) romance, the community of performance poets, (rabbiting on,) writers: One, ‘We are the ones,’ birthdays and favourite things, conquering demons, nature, forests, and the seasons including Christmas, and New Year with a loved one.
Amy B Garratt’s personal poems about pain: Glass, Blooms, and the difficulties loving oneself: Past, along with love poems such as the poem : One,’ … ‘intertwining our love strings,’ were amongst my favourites.
There is some lovely imagery in the heartwrenching poem Glass. And I absolutely loved Paper Chain, which begins: ‘I am a paper chain person.’
An absolute pleasure to read.
5 stars from me.
Vignettes & Versesby Claire O’Connor
An unusual somewhat quirky collection of short stories/micro fiction and poetry.
I enjoyed this short read. Especially, the personal connection I had from the poem, ‘My Balcony,’ which I found relatable. The pleasures of life written so succinctly from the vantage point of being somewhat removed but close to it all.
Other favourites include: Tea and Apathy, Homage To The Stag, The Hag of Beara, Elephant Woman and the poignant Flour Sacks To Petticoats.
Nice to discover a new short fiction/poet author to me via indie visible services.
Rating: 4 stars
Love Bytes & Gossip
Love Bytes & Gossip by Tristen Willis
(Insurance of the heart novella book 2)
An office second chance romance (after Hannah’s breakup,) develops between Hannah and the new IT guy Jeremy! It seems that Jeremy has more to him and Hannah becomes more interested to find out more. An enjoyable sweet short read only 104 pages which also includes some gossipy style office toilet humour.
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Indie Visible is an indie promotional service organised by Hayley on Instagram. Highly recommend.
Sophie is a beautiful housewife on the brink of a midlife crisis, unhappy with her errant husband. Juliette, a romantic and passionate optimist, struggles to make ends meet in a society that stereotypes single mothers.
Evelyn, a shy and modest novelist is looking for the university to help her step out of the shadows. Ann, after being disabled after a serious accident, yearns for fulfillment in a cruel world that has robbed her of happiness.And then there’s Will – a rebellious and idealistic teenager, who longs to sever the shackles of family and religion.
As five paths collide in a story of empowerment, romance and quest for fulfillment, they’re presented with the same question: what is your dream?
My Review
The School Of Dreams, Book 1
This is a lovely heartwarming novel about a group of people who would perhaps never have met except for their wish/plans to go to university to enrich/better their lives by studying English Literature.
Not all are as keen on the idea of studying. Young Will, the youngest in the group wants to be free to travel the world. Smitten by Hema, he is thwarted by interracial problems that must be overcome to be with her.
Sophie is a rich footballer’s wife who needs more from life. Her lifestyle appears grand but money isn’t everything.
Ann is in a wheelchair and speaks her mind. I warmed to her, she is forthright but has a soft side too, as has her kind hearted hubby Jon.
Juliette’s now a single mum with two kids (wanting nothing to do with her useless ex,) living in an “asbo” area. She falls for lecturer Ben who everyone is gossiping about.
Evelyn is a carer for her mum who dreams of being a novelist.
They all have different backgrounds and obstacles to overcome.
It’s a lively and fun narrative with a couple of blossoming love stories, too. And some revelations. I loved the ending. Won’t say more for spoiling it for you.
Recommended for its lighthearted, great characters and fun vibe, for its university setting, love of books atmosphere… it took me back to those times. I loved being a student!
My rating 5 🌟
Author Bio
Hello, I live in Wolverhampton, England and I’m the author of 11 books.
I write romance mainly – rom-coms, romantasy, contemporary.
I’ve also written a psychological mental health book.
I’ve had a variety of jobs ranging from bar staff, sales assistant, secretary, teaching assistant & dinner lady.
I retired in 2019 to concentrate on writing and am absolutely loving it. I have also recently passed a Master’s In Creative Writing which I studied with through The Open University.
My interests include reading, walking, drawing and drinking tea. I love hearing from readers 🙂
I’m on Twitter at @sparklyauthor and I’m on Instagram at booksbyjulia72
Thank you for taking an interest in my writing and thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. 🙂 x
Julia Sutton is one of my favourite contemporary romancy authors!
And to celebrate I’m sharing the latest review for Bloodstone on Amazon. Many thanks to all the reviewers and enthusiastic readers who take time out of their busy days to review out books! Thank you Dan Costinas.
Currently writing book 3 in The Curse of Time series. So, now is a good time to discover more about my books…
BLOODSTONE, Book 1.
BLURB
Fifteen-year-old Amelina Scott lives in Cambridge with her dysfunctional family, a mysterious black cat, and an unusual girl who is imprisoned within the mirrors located in her house.
When an unexpected message arrives inviting her to visit the Crystal Cottage, she sets off on a forbidden path where she encounters Ryder: a charismatic, perplexing stranger.
With the help of a magical paint set and some crystal wizard stones, can Amelina discover the truth about her family?
A unique, imaginative mystery full of magic-wielding and dark elements, Bloodstone is a riveting adventure for anyone interested in fantasy, mythology or the world of the paranormal.
TRIGGER WARNING: this book contains mention of self-harm, mental health issues and alludes to the potential dangers of sexual attraction, which may trigger younger/sensitive readers.
Finalist International Author Prize and Fantasy Book awarded for 5 star and 5++ stars by N.N. Light Vine Voice reviewer and verified (blue check) influencer on Amazon:
Bloodstone has also been awarded a red ribbon by Billy Buttons, Wishing Shelf Awards.
I entered the Wishing Shelf awards and my #ya #fantasy Bloodstone was awarded a red ribbon.
Readers’ Comments: “I enjoyed this fantasy adventure. I think Amelina is a good protagonist who’s determined and brave. There’s lots of drama in it – of the teen sort! – so I think that’ll go down well with 13 – 15 year olds.” Girl, aged 14.
“The way the character is trapped in the mirrors is sort of spooky. I liked that part the best as I thought it was original. I also liked the all the characters; I thought they were very different and often memorable. I hope the author will write another book.” Boy, aged 14.
“I liked the story. There’s sort of a curse on the hero’s dad. The girl, Amelina, has to find a way of saving him. This is a fantasy book but there’s a lot of teenager angst in it too. It’s gritty in parts, but silly too. It’s slow at the start when we get to know the family, but it gets better. Just keep on reading.” Girl, aged 15.
“Ryder is the best character in the story. I think the author should focus on him in the next book. He’s not particularly nice, but he IS interesting. I suspect he’s got a lot of secrets.” Girl, aged 14.
“I felt sorry for Amelina as her family is sort of messed up. But can she fix it? There’s a lot going on in this story. There’s magic, fantasy, drama, adventure – even art! It did feel a bit too busy and I got a little overwhelmed. But I enjoyed the second half a lot as the pacing is better. A good novel for YAs.” Boy, aged 15.
To Sum It Up: ‘A smartly plotted YA fantasy adventure with a strong cast of characters. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Many thanks to the following authors and bloggers for their kind features, reviews and book alerts
This delightful book will appeal to teens and young adults who love stories filled with magical crystals, dark family curses, and mysteries waiting to be solved around every corner. Each chapter leads you on a journey of discovery where Amelina earns the right to use three wizard stones to reset the balance of time and finally break the curse that holds her family captive. A captivating tale! Author Colleen Chesebro – (Editorial Review of 1st Edition – The Curse of Time Book 1 Bloodstone.)
This is a totally different genre for me, but this year I have been reading books by so many exciting new authors that I wanted to give this book a try. This novel would be great for teenagers, or young adults and it follows the magical story of teenager Amelina as she steps into a world of crystals, magic and wonderment. There are some likeable and not so likeable characters and both are really well written. The book weaves a story of the main character learning new skills and you see her personal growth throughout the story. Nothing is what is seems and you want to find out how Amelia will use her enchanted gifts and learn who she can trust. A book packed full of intrigue, believable characters and poetic verse. Author Lizzie Chantree
This is a brilliant book for young adults interested in magic, supernatural, paranormal, fantasy and myth. I found it highly readable and the author’s imagination is phenomenal, as is the fluency of her language and the dazzling way she describes the curious events and characters in her story. I loved the idea of Esme, the girl trapped in the mirror. Author S C Skillman
An intricate fantasy novel with unique supernatural and magical elements which serves as a highly entertaining read. I had a great time reading this novel and exploring the magical world of Amelina full of magic crystals and enchanted mirrors.Author, Editor and Book Reviewer Heena Rathore P.
At its core, this is an emotional tale about a young girl figuring out her identity, learning who to trust, and discovering there is more to the world than the tangible things she’s experienced in the first one-and-a-half decades of her life. Magic Mirrors? Mysterious appearances? Letters that cannot be destroyed? Puzzling trust? What’s a girl to do when she’s followed by two strange boys in the park, only to realize something darker is beginning to happen? Mallon explores the fears in a young girl who wants to break out of her life but doesn’t know where to turn. She’s unsure about trusting friends and family. Ryder, who saves the day, might actually not be the best thing for her… safety… sanity… security. Can she fight the feelings burgeoning around her? Author James Cudney
This magical young adult story is brimming with fresh imaginative ideas avoiding tropes often associated with fantasy. I was impressed with the unique vivid visual descriptions which brought both the settings and characters to life and the wonderful standard of writing throughout the story. A magical mystery unfolds for the main character Amelina, who makes discoveries during the plot, so we can enjoy seeing her grow in confidence and skill. The story involves complex content which was difficult to follow initially but becomes more understandable as the story develops. The introduction of the antagonist, Ryder, really helps us to root for Amelina. He is well written, and I enjoyed that he wasn’t given the typical look of a baddie but rather slowly and disconcertingly reveals his darker side, inserting himself between Amelina and her friends. I can see this being the start of a fabulous young adult series and hope there are more books to come!Sarah Northwood Poet and Author
Amelina is written so well. There is a part of her that all of us will recognise and emphasise with. At that awkward age where nothing fits and at the same time you feel as if you can conquer the world. Darkness creeps in slowly in the form of Ryder who at first seems the answer to all Amelina desires, or is he? Author Adele Marie Park
The overall world-building creates a wonderful, spiritual atmosphere. There’s a bit of poetry at the start of every chapter, a nice touch which leads us into the action. The story bravely tackles issues of mental health and self-harm, but in such a sensitive way that it can only help improve understanding. Author Richard Dee
Amelina is a teenage girl whose world has been turned upside down by a curse within a world where magic is hidden and most don’t seem to know of its existence. In fact, it seems she’s a descendant of a line of magic-wielding enchanters who have a special relationship with crystals. But with this curse, her father is time-ravaged, a girl is trapped in her mirror, and her family is falling apart. There are a lot of unanswered questions come the end of the book, so be on the lookout for more in the series. There are mentions of delicate issues such as cutting and anorexia, both handled with care, and a séance, but I’d recommend this book for older teens and people who love magical stories that involve power within crystals, curses, and unexplainable happenings. Author Rachael Ritchey
This is a wonderful YA fantasy read. It’s very different from others I’ve read and I say this in the most positive manner. One way or is unique is through the use of original short poetry at the beginning of each chapter providing a clue to the chapter content. It is very well done. I do love originality. The whole work has a magical feel about it which draws the reader in with a yearning to learn more about all of the characters and their plight. My favourite characters are, Esme… The girl trapped in the mirror, and Shadow, the black cat. These two characters alone were enough to keep me rooted. Meanwhile, on the serious side of things, there are so many issues going on in this work in addition to that of dealing with a dysfunctional family. One’s familiarity will be tested and emotions may arise. That aside, when you add magic, a black cat, and a guitar and music into the mix… What is there not to love about this work?Author/Reviewer Kevin Cooper – (Previous edition of Book – The Curse of Time Book 1 Bloodstone. )
Amelina is an indomitable heroine who will not rest until she solves the mystery and sets the world to rights. The device of magic crystals as a source of magic is novel and works well. There are loose ends that are clearly available to be addressed in future episodes of this series. As a precursor story that is relatively complete in itself, … as an introduction to the storyline and invitation to read on. MJ Mallon is not afraid to broach the risks that young girls on the cusp are subject to in these unruly times. Both physical violence and dangerous sexual attraction are broached in this tale. Poet Frank Prem.
Beautifully written and poetic fantasy novel that perfectly sustains mystery and drama throughout the pages. The characters are very vivid and the world is rich in detail and atmosphere. Marjorie is excellent at painting imaginative and believable scenes with words and magic. A fantastic debut! Looking forward to her next book. Author/Illustrator Alina Surnaite
My publisher has added these opportunities to read the first book in the Curse of Time series: Bloodstone for free…
Here are a couple of beautiful images from the wonderfully talented Carolina Russo created for me of my characters – Esme – The Mirror Girl… and Eruterac – The Creature.
M J Mallon was born in Lion city Singapore, a passionate Scorpio with the Chinese Zodiac sign of a lucky rabbit. She spent her early childhood in Hong Kong. During her teen years, she returned to her father’s childhood home, Edinburgh where she spent many happy years, entertained and enthralled by her parents’ vivid stories of living and working abroad. Perhaps it was during these formative years that her love of writing began inspired by their vivid storytelling. She counts herself lucky to have travelled to many far-flung destinations and this early wanderlust has fuelled her present desire to emigrate abroad. Until that wondrous moment, it’s rumoured that she lives in the UK, in the Venice of Cambridge with her six-foot hunk of a rock god husband. Her two enchanting daughters have flown the nest but often return with a cheery, heart-warming smile to greet her.
MJ’s writing credits also include a multi-genre approach: paranormal, best-selling horror, supernatural short stories, flash fiction, and poetry. She worked with some amazing authors and bloggers compiling an anthology/compilation set during the early stages of COVID-19 entitled This Is Lockdown and she has written a spin off poetry collection, Lockdown Innit.
She’s been blogging for many moons at her blog home Kyrosmagica, (which means Crystal Magic,) where she celebrates the spiritual realm,her love of nature, crystals and all things magical, mystical, and mysterious.
MJ’s motto is…
To always do what you Love, stay true to your heart’s desires, and inspire others to do so too, even if it appears that the odds are stacked against you like black hearted shadows.
Her favourite genre to write is
Fantasy/magical realism because life would be dull unless it is sprinkled with a liberal dash of extraordinarily imaginative magic!
So excited about Bloodstone and happy to say that the sequel Golden Healer is available too.
My poem using kigo words: Autumn’s voice and Worm’s cry. I felt this appropriate as I have just seen my eldest daughter off for a while. She is returning to a new term as a teacher. It seems just yesterday that she started her Summer’s break. Some photos of Natasha with us in Tavira, Portugal.
She works very hard, I hope her new term will get off to a good start.
autumn’s voice begins worm’s cry as winds blow with rains we must contemplate that summer is a daydream and Halloween a reward.
I’m delighted to announce that The 2024 WordCrafter Dark Fiction Anthology compiled and edited by Kaye Lynn Booth now has an official title and a stunning cover! The anthology will be called Midnight Garden, and it will be the second in the Midnight Anthology Series. (Last year’s anthology, Midnight Roost, is the first.)
I’m also pleased to present the fabulous cover, created by Sonoran Dawn Studios, below.
This is the announcement I received about the winner of the dark fiction short story contest:
Thank you for your interest in the 2024 WordCrafter Short Fiction contest. This letter is to announce the winner of the contest, which is you! Congratulations.
My winning story is called The Seagull Man!
I also contributed to Midnight Roost: Weird and Creepy Stories anthology, which is now the first book in the Midnight Anthology Series from WordCrafter Press, complete with an updated cover by DL Mullan of Sonoran Dawn Studios.
Blurb
20 authors bring your nightmares to life in 23 stories of ghosts, paranormal phenomenon and the horror from the dark crevasses of their minds. Stories of stalkers, both human and supernatural, possession and occult rituals, alien visitations of the strange kind, and ghostly tales that will give you goosebumps. These are the tales that will make you fear the dark. Read them at the Midnight Roost… if you dare.
The second volume, Midnight Garden: Where Dark Tales Grow, will be followed by next year’s anthology, the third, Midnight Oil: Stories to Fuel Your Nightmares.
Delighted with the boost of this 5+ star review from blue tick influencer, N. N. LIGHT.
A sensual poetry collection sure to entice your mind, body and soul. In this exquisite collection, the author writes emotive poems with the themes of love, romance, and relationships. Each poem is expressive, sensual, and the reader gets to experience falling in love.
The imagery reflected in this collection is remarkable. Each word has been carefully chosen by a wordsmith to evoke a feeling, an experience, or what it feels like to fall in love. The author is a gifted poet.
If you’re a romantic or a fan of poetry, you’re in for a treat with this poetry collection. Brilliant from start to finish, these poems will have you falling in love.
Congratulations to wonderful supporter of the indie community, Sally Cronin, on her new book release. Pop over to her blog to read more about it! Links below.
Book overview
At age 41 in 1994 and weighing 330 lbs, Sally Cronin had two choices when she was told that she was unlikely to live to 45. Carry on eating or get her act together.
She chose to study nutrition and change the way she approached the food she ate and her other lifestyle choices.
Her first book, Size Matters, told the story of her weight loss of 154 lbs and shared the programme she designed to both lose the weight and regain her health. Now, thirty years on from the start of that journey, having worked as a nutritional therapist with hundreds of clients as well as acting as a health consultant on radio for several years and on her blog, she shares an updated version of the programme.
Weight loss is not just about calories in and calories out. It is about identifying the physical, emotional and mental attachments we have to food and developing a deeper respect for the fuel we require to be healthy. As well as exploring the many elements involved in healthy weight loss, she also shares the nutritional balance we need to achieve to prevent many of the lifestyle issues that accompany obesity.
This includes some easy to prepare recipes which provide nutrient dense dishes for the whole family.
In 2022, 2.5 billion adults aged 18 years and older were overweight, including over 890 million adults who were living with obesity. 37 million children under the age of 5 were overweight. Over 390 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 years were overweight, including 160 million who were living with obesity.
If you need to lose 10 lbs or 100 lbs you can adapt this programme to lose the weight healthily and to enjoy a better quality of life. Don’t be included in the statistics and start losing weight today.
Thank you so much to Diana Peach for including my latest poetry book, Shh Purely Poetry with her July book reviews.
Follow the link below to read her reading suggestions! Including myself and fellow authors as follows:
And The Grave Awaits by Roberta Eaton Cheadle, The Repulse Chronicles Book 7 by Chris James, Petals of Haiku edited by Gabriela Marie Milton, (an anthology of poetry,) Karma Doesn’t Kill by Yvette M. Calleiro.
Occasionally a book comes to you which makes you think, take stock and reflect in a good way. This is one of those masterpieces. Stunning.” Nicki’s Book Blog.
In early 1930s Germany, life for the Stiepermann family was simple yet idyllic. Artistic Ingrid and her inventive brother Dieter loved the freedom of the Bavarian Alps, but that was before the Jew haters surfaced in their society.
Fueled by Nazi ideologies, Stefan Weiss and his friends suppress and destroy anyone who opposes their beliefs. While one family battles for supremacy, another is torn apart.
Fleeing the tyranny, Ingrid, and her brother escape to London. Seemingly safe from danger, can Ingrid save her family as war threatens?
Featuring real world history, shocking events of the time and tales of immense courage, The Girl from Berchtesgaden is a must-read historical thriller.
My review
Brilliant historical fiction story. It’s seamlessly written by two awesome authors: Alistair Birch and Kim Rigby. The collaboration works well.
I could see all the shocking events, and despicable behaviour towards the Jews unfolding as if they were before my eyes. This took on a cinematic quality.
An emotional and heartwrenching WW2 tale with great characters, Nazi villians, family aspects, friendships and relationships tested to the limit by the brutality of war.
I loved it. Ingrid was so brave! Stefan was diabolical! I don’t often read historical fiction war novels but when I do I often find them very moving, meaningful and important reads. This one is definitely in that category. It’s a favourite. Well worth the 500 plus pages, which I didn’t notice… as I was engrossed throughout.
My rating 5 stars. Highly recommended 👌 Get a copy!
M J Mallon YA Author and Poet 