I received "Shadow Dragon" by Lauren Esker as an ARC. "Shadow Dragon" is a mix between cop case and shifter romance. While trying to avoid spoilers, Caine and Gilly both have their reasons for being socially awkward, but they are pushed out of their comfort zones when Caine accidentally shadow walks into Gilly's home injured. Their new friendship and Caine's recent job experiences and abilities lead them on an adventure neither were expected as their adorable romance unfolds, new friendships are made, and family is recognized. Though this is the 6th book in Esker's Shifter Agents series, it is easily read as a standalone. I will definitely be going back to read the other books in the series when I get the chance. As a teacher, I like this book because it showcases two flawed, but still good individuals struggle and overcome their obstacles. Are they fully perfect by the end of the book, no, and that is realistic. It's a great example for stude
I received an ARC of this book. I originally noticed it because of it's beautiful cover, which led me to read the description and request the ARC. When Dreams Aren't What You Expect Them To Be The Scarlet Alchemist is a fantasy that is set in a China like world when alchemy is real. You get a taste of Chinese culture in a fantasy setting. Zilan dreams of becoming a royal alchemist to help her family beat poverty. She fights her way up to achieve her dream, only supported by her cousins and a powerless prince, as everyone one else tries to continuously tear her down. Only for reality to come crashing down on her hard. Without spoiling the story, it's a page turner where you simultanously root for Zilan, want her to save the world, while totally understanding both the good and bad choices she makes to survive. It's an interesting fantasy that really plays on the readers' emotions as Zilan faces many moral choices that determine who she becomes. I look forward