Book and Cosplay Item Reviews by Jess D Cosplay

I bought "Sound the Gong" by Joan He as it was the sequel to "Strike the Zither" which I have read before and loved.  Though it is a sequel, it is meant to be read right after "Strike the Zither" and should probably be considered one book broken up into two parts and read together.  I would not read "Sound the Gong" as a stand alone.  The series is roughly based off the story of the Three Kingdoms, but with a mainly female cast.  "Sound the Gong" starts off right after Zephyr makes the betrayal realization at the end of "Strike the Zither."  It follows Zephyr's journey as she must decide what she is willing to sacrifice to get a chance to change fate and meet her goals to lead Xin Ren to victory.  Without giving too much away, it is a story of betrayal, forgiveness, hope, despair, and so much more in an emotional rollercoaster.  Will Zephyr ultimately get what she wants or will she have lost everything just for the chance?...

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...