Book and Cosplay Item Reviews by Jess D Cosplay

I received "Duskfire Dragon's Mate" by Zoe Chant as an Advanced Reading Copy (ARC).  "Duskfire Dragon's Mate" is a shifter romance between a human and a dragon who had a lot of misunderstandings in their past. While trying to avoid too many spoilers, Maya had fled from Corin and the human world to Hideaway Cove, a safe haven for shifters, to protect her son, Tomas, in the previous story, "The Lightning Dragon's Mate."  Maya receives a mystery package that brings Corin back into her life.  Worried about her son, Maya agrees to allow Corin to stay and they begin to discover a world of misunderstandings, not just their own.  It's a sweet story of new beginnings and second chances, as well strengthening of familial bonds with some surprising twists in the plot.  Also, who can resist Tomas' adorable baby dragon antics and stealing of gold?  Though this is the 4th book in Chant's Hideaway Cove series, it can be read as a standalone.  Howe...

I received "Forbidden Griffin" by Zoe Chant as an ARC.  "Forbidden Griffin" is a shifter romance between two exiled griffins.  While trying to avoid too many spoilers, Cela is exiled from Griffin Island because her babies were not born griffins.  A nice enforcer suggests she find Tyr to help her out.  Needless to say, Cela and Tyr get a lot more than they bargained for when they meet and Tyr helps Cela get used to living in a human world, as Cela had never been off the island.  They'd make a nice family... if only they could touch.  The story follows Tyr and Cela's journey to break their curse and become a family along the way.  It's a sweet story of new beginnings and second chances, as well as new and blended families.  Though this is the 8th book in Chant's Bodyguard Shifters series, it is easily read as a standalone, though there are a few references to things that happened in prior books.  I will definitely be going back to read the othe...

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...

  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...

  Philliya's Neighborly Assistance Philliya's shop is once again at risk when a new neighbor brings trouble to her door. Without a moment's hesitation, Philliya investigates with her trust companion to come up with a golden solution that is somewhat legal to help her new friend and keep her customers. It's always enjoyable to see Philliya's thought process as she needs to come up with out of the box solutions for some interesting, and sometimes all too common, problems. Another great magical story that makes you wonder what will happen next. All I know is that I'd like to have Philliya on my side the next time I've got to deal with a creep. Go Philliya! Interested? You can buy it on the author's website and check out more in the series. https://store.annamittower.com/b/aDpSz?fbclid=IwAR1kjJ8EkOnleu4D5yonhvu5_M6PMbdZtYz8paUS6JarPmVsAf85yMWBRKg

"The Beastly Perfume" by Anna Mittower is another fun adventure where Philliya has to once again use her wits to solve a problem, but with a dangerous twist that she has to go out in the field herself to be successful, putting her life in danger. Traveling with her newest companion whom she has yet to name, Philliya gets more of a hands on experience than she bargains for. Even more adventure than the previous books in the story, it still has the problem solving cunning that we have come to expect from our quirky sorceress. As a cosplayer, who wouldn't enjoy Philliya's ever changing style and quirky personality.  As a teacher, these short stories are engaging and fun.  I look forward to reaching more in the series. ' #bookreview #salonofenchantedbeauty #beastlyperfume #annamittower

I received an advance reading copy of this book for review. I'd probably rate it a 4.5, but there are no halfs for reviews.  Goodreads Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/152594094-orson-the-great Orson the Great by Colm McElwain delves into the history of magic through the life of Orson Whitlock as Orson discovers the world of magic and family tradition.  Without spoiling too much, Orson must hone his skills and become the best magician or the fate of the magic world is at risk.  It’s a lot of pressure for a young man, but he has the support of his family and trusty sidekick Agatha to keep him on the right path as he faces Daxton the Destroyer and conspiracies in the fight for magic. The story is simply written with a good amount of fun details and magical background that will appeal to readers who enjoy young adult fiction.  McElwain brings the magic into Orson the Great without actually spoiling the tricks of the trade and keeping the magic real....

The Quirky Sorceress Is Back In An Even More Engaging Story As someone with little free time, it's nice to be able to pick up a story that can be read in a single sitting. After reading the first of Philliya's adventures, I had preordered this story immediately upon completion and it did not disappoint. Whereas the first story had a slower start due to world building, this one gets straight into the action. Philliya is once again in need of money and selling green hair potions to make ends meet. Until a dangerous illness spreads, imitating her potions effects of turning hair green. Without spoiling too much, Philliya must retrace her steps to clear her name, or she will have a much harder time making ends meet. Follow Philliya as she searches for the root of the problem so she can return to making money and stay out of trouble. Lots of action in this quick, hour read with the quirky sorceress. I've already preordered the third book as I'm excited to see what other adven...

Quirky Sorceress Has A Sense of Humor If you have read the previous short stories, you are already aware of Philliya and her unique ways of solving issues that arise, even if they don't have anything to do with her and she owes the person nothing.  What was supposed to be a routine beauty care potion, perhaps with a prank thrown in, turned into a research driven quest to find out why her customer couldn't sleep (don't want to say too much and spoil the story).  Using the resources at hand, or more like her brother's resources, Philliya finds out some fun information that will likely affect her journey to come.  Fun, quick paced story, though not a lot of direct action if that is your thing. I'm excited for the next installment and to see what new adventures await Philliya and those around her. The short story is set up in a way that each story can be a single one shot of mini adventures of Philliya, though there are advantages to reading the stories that come before...

A quirky fantasy that leaves you wanting more... A friend recommended this short story and I must say, it draws you in. With a quirky sorceress who has a knack for not following the norms of society, you instantly fall in love with Philliya and wonder just how she is going to solve her problems so she can live the life she wants to live. Without spoiling the story, Philliya opens up shop but struggles to get customers. Finally snagging one, she must solve their quite serious problem or her dreams of being a successful shopkeeper is ruined. The main character is the loveable, perky younger sister who is bound to cause her older brother loads of issues in the future. The short story is set up in a way that each story can be a single one shot of mini adventures of Philliya, which is nice for those who don't want a large reading commitment due to lack of time (looking at my infant...). It's a quick ready, around an hour for me, where the sorcery practically comes alive. I've al...

Cute little owlet that is great for 6 month old babies who are learning to use their hands.  My son is not quite 6 months, but will soon be.                                        He was teething and immediately started chewing on it as soon as I gave it to him.  He especially liked chewing on the cute ears.  He played with it for about fifteen minutes before finally setting it down.   It is weighted, so it will sit back upright if placed on a hard surface.  There are handles which allowed him to hold on to it.  It has a bit of weight to it.  Not heavy enough to be difficult for the child to manuever, but definitely heavy enough to sting if it accidentally gets tossed at you as your child works on their fine motor skills.                                   ...

I read a lot, and though it took me longer to read due to having a newborn, I felt like I flew through Strike the Zither by Joan He and can't wait to read the sequel when it comes out. It has made me want to get her other books to read when I have some time. I was first brought into the story through the beautiful cover art and character art at the beginning of the novel. A fictionalized story loosely based on Chinese history, the book nods to the Chinese culture through the art styles, the chapter numbers in Chinese script, and the names of the characters. The plot follows Zephyr, a strategist for a landless lordess Xin Ren. Zephyr somehow manages to survive a multitude of near death experiences and gets Ren out of many scrapes as they fight for what Ren believes is right. Without spoiling too much, Zephyr goes to the enemy's side to try and recruit more support for Ren. In doing so, she finds people she'd never thought she would see again and made a multitude of frenemies...

This is the second year in a row I have ordered a Halloween dragon from Art by Aelia on Etsy after falling in love with her Viserion dragon draper necklace that I received for Christmas a few years back. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1082488704/ About the Seller: Aelia is a talented artist on Etsy who crafts all sorts of things out of resin like whales, dragons, and dinosaurs. Her dragon jewelry seems to be her main selling point and many of her products are customizable. If she doesn’t have what you want in stock, she will gladly make it for you within 6-8 weeks before shipping it right to you. About the Product: This candy corn Halloween dragon is one of Art by Aelia’s newer products and is a must have for any Halloween lovers. This is the fourth or fifth time I have ordered from her, and I love every piece I have gotten. These dragons are painted resin so are a little fragile but as they will mostly sit on your shelf as an awesome decoration, you really don’t have to worry about it …...

  Goodreads Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4192348883 Another amazing story from Nora Roberts. However, I must warn you that Under Currents may trigger you due to issues of domestic violence and child abuse. Nora Roberts does a great job capturing the emotions involved as the main character grows up in an abusive household and does his best to protect his sister. Through sheer determination and smarts, and a desire to protect each other, the siblings find a way out and have to learn to accept and move on from the past. The story also goes pretty in depth through the legal system as those who care for the siblings fight to get them justice. I was nearly in tears throughout the story, and you couldn't help but watch as history repeats itself over and over and comes back to haunt them time and again. Though parts of the story are a bit rushed, as we start in childhood to the mid-thirties, the book is almost as thorough as Roberts trilogies. I highly recommend this ...

  The 7th novel in the Tennison series, "Unholy Murder" by Lynda La Plante starts off slow with the discovery of a coffin in a dig site.  Over the course of the book, many mysteries are unveiled as Jane Tennison tries to get justice for the dead nun.  Relationships are tense, broken and strengthened, as new information is found.  Will justice ever be served or will they perp(s) escape once again?  Though the story is slow to get into, it does become more engaging as it nears the climax and reveals.  There are lots of red herrings and little details that add up to understanding the case.  What is nice about "Unholy Murder" is that you do not need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy this book.  Any details that you need from the previous books are woven in nicely throughout the natural thread of the story and plot line.  I also liked how detailed the investigation process was as it really gives you insight to what takes place...

  Time for a Book Review! This time, it is "Fruits Basket another" by Natsuki Takaya, an adorable sequel featuring the kids of the original Fruits Basket cast. Ever wonder what happened to Kyo, Yuki, Akito, and the gang? This sequel hints at what has happened since the original series ended through the perspectives of their children. You can usually tell who each kid belongs to based on their personalities and what they think about their parents. Emotions run wild in the series, as we go from despair, hope, concern, love, etc. as the characters learn how to stand on their own as they come of age and take a few more steps towards adulthood. As a teacher, I am a full supporter of using comics for teaching, and even in this three volume series, there are lots of lessons to be learned such as actions have consequences and you can't judge a person based on who their parents are, how rich they are, or what they look like. The stories may be relatable to students in high s...

  Time for a Book Review! "Deny All Charges" by Eion Colfer https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0008324867/ Another great sequel to the Artemis Fowl Twins series as "Deny All Charges" explores the newest adventure of Miles, Beckett, and Lazuli as they deal with kidnappers and the quest to reclaim lost fairy gold for the imfamous Horteknut dwarves. Miles must make tough choices as Beckett and Lazuli are in danger and Lazuli's magic is sealed. Eventually, the crew must separate to use their strengths to save the day and many innocent lives. Will the heroes be successful? What will they learn through these dangerous challenges. A thrilling adventure where the heroes have to explore outside their comfort zones. As a teacher, this is a fun story as preteens have to make hard choices and learn to deal with consequences, not that the twins are very good at following punishments. I can see students enjoying the twins clever antics and enjoying the story overall. St...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08ZNTFPBW As a fan of stories based in mythology, I was delighted to receive an Advance Reading Copy (ARC) of "The New Kingdom" by Wilbur Smith. This was my first encounter with Smith's writings and I can honestly say I will likely at least pick up the original 6 novels in his Egyptian series and have already shoved "The New Kingdom" at my husband and told him it was a must read.  It kind of made me think of Rick Riordan for adults, though I do love his books as well. I was entranced from the get go as we are thrown right into the action, as Hui, the main character, his friend, and his brother attempt to steal the Ka Stone. This event set everything in motion and is an event that will be important throughout the story. Every little detail has meaning and Smith neatly wraps up those details in the end.  Without giving to much spoilers, each small detail has a purpose that is well woven throughout the story.  It is a story of bet...

Having read the preview "What Big Teeth" by Rose Szano, I had expected a coming of age story.  Though right, I was not nearly correct in the fact that I missed the huge elements of mystery and suspense as I followed Eleanor through her family of monsters as she tried to come to terms with who she was, despite the missing chunks in her memory, and with the fact that her family had previously abandoned her.  She has to decide whether to abandon the family who had sent her away or to save them from the mistakes she herself had made.  Without giving too much away, it is a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Eleanor has to figure out the truth amongst all the secrets hidden within the Zarrin family. Why did her grandmother die?  What happened when she was a child that got her sent away?  What were the tarot cards trying to warn her about?  Who are the true monsters?  Why did the other family members dislike and fear her mother's mom, her other grandmother?...