Allison's bookshelf: all en-US Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:41:51 -0700 60 Allison's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg To Serve Them All My Days 19781357 605 R.F. Delderfield 1444719149 Allison 0 4.18 1972 To Serve Them All My Days
author: R.F. Delderfield
name: Allison
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1972
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: historical-fiction, setting-england, boarding-school, academics-scholars, setting-1900s, published-1970s, currently-reading, 2025-dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Saint Peter's Fair (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #4)]]> 39150304 In the twelfth century, merchants gather at a summertime fair—but when one of them is found dead in a river, a crime-solving monk must step in.

St. Peter’s Fair is a grand, festive event, attracting merchants from across England and beyond. There is a pause in the civil war racking the country in the summer of 1139, and the fair promises to bring some much-needed gaiety to the town of Shrewsbury—until the body of a wealthy merchant is found murdered in the river Severn. Was Thomas of Bristol the victim of murderous thieves? And, if so, why were his valuables abandoned nearby?
Ìý
Brother Cadfael, that shrewd but kindly monk, offers to help the merchant’s lovely niece Emma. But while he is searching for the killer, Thomas of Bristol’s wares are ransacked and two more men are murdered. Emma almost certainly knows more than she is telling—as others will soon realize. Cadfael desperately races to save the young girl, knowing that in a country at war with itself, betrayal can come from any direction, and even good intentions can kill.Ìý]]> 272 Ellis Peters 1497671167 Allison 3 4.20 1981 Saint Peter's Fair (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #4)
author: Ellis Peters
name: Allison
average rating: 4.20
book published: 1981
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/06
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: historical-mystery, setting-0400s-1300s, monastics, setting-wales, at-library, medieval, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Stalks of Gold (Bewitching Fairy Tales, #1)]]> 56863232
If Aurelia comes across magic, she’s supposed to run in the other direction. Life is no longer so simple. If the tower door opens, and she doesn’t have any gold, her life will be forfeit.

No one is going to help her, not even her closest friend. No one, except for the mysterious stranger who appeared on her doorstep and in her tower room. If she takes the deal, she might live, but what will she sacrifice in order to do it?

Sandor’s worlds collided when Aurelia was brought before King Eadric. Is he truly so desperate to get out of debt, he’s willing to believe such nonsense as a girl who can spin straw into gold? She’s Sandor’s closest friend. If Aurelia were a witch, he would know it. It’s impossible, or so he thought.

Nothing makes sense anymore, but Sandor’s determined to figure it out and save Aurelia from the king. The more he learns, the more he wonders, is the king the real threat, or is there something more dangerous lurking in the shadows?]]> 398 Celeste Baxendell Allison 0 3.93 Stalks of Gold (Bewitching Fairy Tales, #1)
author: Celeste Baxendell
name: Allison
average rating: 3.93
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, fantasy-fairytale, fantasy-romance, retelling, romance-clean-sweet, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, published-2020s
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Traitor's Masque (Andari Chronicles #1)]]> 28193548
She has one job—attend a masqued ball and dance with a handsome prince.
What could possibly go wrong?

Everything, that’s what.

After years of submitting to her stepmother’s unreasonable demands, Trystan finally has a chance to be free. The promise of a new life, in exchange for her help. Simple, right? After all, the old woman has only asked for one night. One night, one beautiful gown, one dance� and one message to be delivered to a mysterious recipient.

It should be easy. Maybe even fun. Especially when she can slip away into the night after the dance, leaving no clue as to her identity.

But before she can escape the ball, Trystan makes a shocking discovery that leaves all her hopes in ruins. She will be forced to confront two very different princes—and choose whether to betray her kingdom� or her heart.

If she’s lucky, maybe she’ll even survive to tell about it later.

A thrilling, suspenseful retelling of Cinderella, Traitor’s Masque is the first book of the Andari Chronicles, a series of interconnected but stand-alone fairy tale retellings that feature strong heroines, romance, mystery, and deeply satisfying happily ever afters.]]> 410 Kenley Davidson Allison 0 4.10 2015 Traitor's Masque (Andari Chronicles #1)
author: Kenley Davidson
name: Allison
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2015
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, ebook-freebie, own-ebook, retelling, fairytale, fantasy-romance, cinderella, published-2010s, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, fantasy-fairytale, author-previously-read, kindle-unlimited-wait, own-unread-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Murder at the Mayfair Hotel (Cleopatra Fox, #1)]]> 54595827 It was the most fashionable place to stay in London, until murder made a reservation. Solve the puzzle in this new cozy historical mystery from USA Today bestselling author of the Glass and Steele series. December 1899. After the death of her beloved grandmother, Cleopatra Fox moves into the luxury hotel owned by her estranged uncle in the hopes of putting hardship and loneliness behind her. But the poisoning of a guest on Christmas Eve throws her new life, and the hotel, into chaos.Cleo quickly realizes no one can be trusted, not Scotland Yard and especially not the hotel’s charming assistant manager. With the New Year’s Eve ball approaching fast and the hotel’s reputation hanging by a thread, Cleo must find the killer before the ball, and the hotel itself, are ruined. But catching a murderer proves just as difficult as navigating the hotel’s hierarchy and the peculiarities of her family.Can Cleo find the killer before the new century begins? Or will someone get away with murder?]]> 395 C.J. Archer Allison 0 3.87 2020 Murder at the Mayfair Hotel (Cleopatra Fox, #1)
author: C.J. Archer
name: Allison
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2020
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, own-ebook, ebook-freebie, first-in-series, historical-mystery, setting-1800s, setting-england, victorian, indie-self-pub, published-2020s, series-wait, author-previously-read, own-unread-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Beast's Magician (Regency Magic Faerie Tales #2)]]> 122859407
Thomas Hughes, the reclusive Duke of Harborough, has an ulterior motive for hiring his beautiful new magician. To break the Faerie curse that stole his own magic and hideously transformed him, he needs to fall in love. But with claws and fangs, he can hardly look for a wife in a London ballroom.

Can Isabelle see past the fur and the fangs to save the man beneath? Is the monstrous duke even worth saving?

Enjoy this YA retelling of “Beauty and the Beast," set in a Regency England where Faeries are real and magic is an acceptable accomplishment for young ladies.]]> 232 Eliza Prokopovits Allison 0 4.37 The Beast's Magician (Regency Magic Faerie Tales #2)
author: Eliza Prokopovits
name: Allison
average rating: 4.37
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, own-unread-wait, ebook-freebie, regency, fantasy-fairytale, historical-fantasy, historical-romance, romance-clean-sweet, retelling, published-2020s, beauty-and-the-beast, own-ebook
review:

]]> A Sharpened Axe 43238534 A cursed nation. An unlikely heroine. Deadly stakes. This love could kill...

A jaded fae princess and a few words whispered in the dark...that’s all it took for the prosperous country of Leiria to fall under a curse. Disease, famine and calamity followed. Fifteen years later, Samiris is one of the Chosen, a group of young women brought to the palace to try and break the curse. But if they fail, one of them will die.

Unlike the rest of the girls, who see living in the palace with the Crown Prince as an exciting privilege, Samiris is indifferent to the social whirl and offended by the sumptuous wealth present in the capital. She just wants to go home to take care of her sick father and younger sister.

Can Samiris survive the social intrigue at court, deadly plots against the Chosen, a seemingly unloveable Crown Prince, and a stubborn adversary to break the curse?

A Sharpened Axe is a stand-alone, young adult fairy tale retelling with intrigue and romance, for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Holly Black, and Brigid Kemmerer. If you like a strong female lead, fast paced action, and slow burn romance, then you’ll love this exciting book!]]> 530 Jill M. Beene Allison 0 4.54 2018 A Sharpened Axe
author: Jill M. Beene
name: Allison
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2018
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, fantasy-romance, games-competitions, cursed, fairytale, romance-clean-sweet, published-2010s, fantasy-fairytale, own-unread, own-ebook, ebook-freebie
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Lady Most Fitting: A Grimm Regency Tale]]> 218025802 If the shoe fits, then...

Charlotte Linfield wants nothing more than to please her exacting father and prepare for a perfect London season. Getting tangled up with the teasing young gentleman from the local shoe shop is the last thing on her mind.

Philip Notley is just after a bit of fun when he begins leaving secret gifts for the new girl in town. What starts as a prank soon proves something far deeper, but will it be enough to bring two mismatched halves into a perfect pair?

A Lady Most Fitting is a sweet, wholesome romance filled with plenty of heart and humor, inspired by the fairy tale The Elves and the Shoemaker.

This series reimagines classic Brothers Grimm fairy tales as unique Regency romances. Sit back, pour a cup of tea, and let these sweet, captivating romances transport you to a world of charm, adventure, and happily ever afters.

A Grimm Regency Tale series

A Lady Most Engaged by Audrey Glenn

A Lady Most Fitting by Sienna Peake

A Lady Most Untamed by Amanda Panhorst

A Lady Most Intrigued by Jenni Ward

A Lady Most Entangled by Mary-Celeste Ricks

A Lady Most Isolated by Heloise C. Kensington

A Lady Most Alluring by Amy Newbold]]> 130 Sienna Peake 1778122965 Allison 0 4.60 A Lady Most Fitting: A Grimm Regency Tale
author: Sienna Peake
name: Allison
average rating: 4.60
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, retelling, regency, fairytale, own-unread, own-ebook, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, published-2020s, romance-clean-sweet, ebook-freebie
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Rumpled Gentleman: A Victorian Fairy Tale Retold]]> 228102166 A Romantic Rumplestiltskin Retelling Full of Magic, Mystery, and a Deal That Changes EverythingElara Millstone never wanted a life of impossible bargains. But when her father, once a respected alchemist, claims he can change straw into gold, they find themselves trapped in a dangerous game with the powerful Duke of Sutton. If her father fails to deliver on his promise, imprisonment would be the least of their worries.

Desperate to save them, Elara makes a deal of her own with a mysterious masked gentleman who seems to hold the key to their survival. But magic and alchemy are not the only forces at play—secrets, deception, and an unexpected attraction makes things more precarious. As Elara works to outwit the ruthless duke, she begins to has she struck a bargain with a savior or merely exchanged one cage for another?

Set in a Victorian-inspired world where magic is real and power is the ruling currency, The Rumpled Gentleman is a romantic, historical fantasy retelling of Rumplestiltskin filled with intrigue, romance, and a heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn.

Perfect for fans of fairy tale retellings, historical fantasy, and stories where wit and courage are the strongest magic of all.

Originally included in the anthology Magic and Miracles.]]> 108 Sally Britton 1685270611 Allison 0 4.15 The Rumpled Gentleman: A Victorian Fairy Tale Retold
author: Sally Britton
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, historical-fantasy, fantasy-romance, fairytale, retelling, victorian, setting-1800s, setting-england, ebook-freebie, own-unread, own-ebook, novella-short-story, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tested: A Princess and the Pea Retelling (Enchanted Tales of Tír, #1)]]> 208985547 Her only chance at escape is to win the hand of the prince�but her loathsome suitor will do whatever it takes to see her fail.

Aine harbors a fervent desire: to shield the land and its inhabitants from the negligence of her father. However, her aspirations are threatened when her parents scheme to barter her off to a neighboring lord. The Queen's invitation to compete in a contest to determine the prince's bride arrives just in time.

Prince Rian, ensnared by a curse demanding he win the affection of the "perfect princess" before his twenty-first birthday, grapples with dwindling prospects and fading optimism. With scant months remaining, his ambitions have dwindled to a single to enact even the slightest improvement on the world—or at least his country—before his death.

As Aine faces the queen's tests, fate entwines her destiny with Rian's. Unfortunately, the determined Lord Cleirigh will stop at nothing to thwart her ascent.



Tested is a sweet, clean retelling of The Princess and the Pea. While it can be read alone, the books of The Enchanted Tales of Tír are best enjoyed in order. The Enchanted Tales of Tír reading A Retelling of the Princess and the Pea (Book 1) A Retelling of The Wild Swans (Book 2)A Gentle A Beauty and the Beast Retelling (Book 2.5) - Part of the Hope Ever After series]]> Sarah Carlisle Allison 0 4.48 Tested: A Princess and the Pea Retelling (Enchanted Tales of Tír, #1)
author: Sarah Carlisle
name: Allison
average rating: 4.48
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, fantasy-fairytale, fantasy-romance, retelling, published-2020s, romance-clean-sweet
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Shifter and the Mage: Retelling King Thrushbeard and Little Wildrose (The Intertwined Tales)]]> 214573933 A mage with a temper. A shapeshifter with a secret. A fake marriage that starts to feel real.

Shyla Merrigan wants to become a King's Mage, but after graduating from the Academy she is told she will not be starting an apprenticeship as she'd thought. If that wasn't bad enough, she is invited to attend a party hosted by Alarick of the Wolves, the brother-in-law she despises.

When she hears that Alarick is planning to marry her off, she lashes out in a rage and storms away from the banquet. On encountering Adriel, a young man with the ability to turn into a thrush, she discovers there is a lindenworm troubling his home. If Shyla kills the lindenworm, she may have a chance of becoming a King's Mage after all.

Adriel offers to be her guide. He also suggests they pretend to be married to protect her reputation.

Shyla agrees without hesitation, but as they travel together she begins to suspect Adriel is not who she thinks he is. Worse, she might be starting to develop feelings for him. She must decide which is more fighting a monster, or losing her heart to someone who could destroy it.

The Intertwined Tales is a multi-author series of clean fairy tale retellings. Each novella entwines a famous fairy tale with a lesser-known story to create one happily ever after. These standalone stories can be enjoyed in any order. ]]> 120 Lucy Winton Allison 0 4.12 The Shifter and the Mage: Retelling King Thrushbeard and Little Wildrose (The Intertwined Tales)
author: Lucy Winton
name: Allison
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, novella-short-story, fantasy-fairytale, fantasy-romance, retelling, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, published-2020s, romance-clean-sweet
review:

]]> Hooked (Tales of Winberg #1) 60370478 But what if she’s ready to fall for him instead?

Cecily doesn’t want to grow up—not if growing up means marrying. After escaping a life of abandonment and mistreatment, she refuses to put her life in the hands of a man ever again. She’s happily settled into her life as lady’s maid to Princess Marilee, and that’s where she intends to stay. But when the princess’s personal guard, Falstone, starts to show an interest in her, she’s tempted to believe that an attachment might not be a bad thing after all.

His kind heart and playful nature pull her in, but while she would trust him with her life, she can’t seem to trust him with her heart. Not only that, but Falstone himself is hesitant to bring a wife into his precarious world when he’s pledged to give his life for the protection of another. Though they both want to give their budding feelings a chance, that choice is taken out of their hands by the appearance of Captain Huckley, the man she ran from years ago, who insists he has a claim on Cecily and her future.

With Cecily’s past rearing up and Captain Huckley determined to drag her away from all she cherishes, can she find the courage to escape him again and find her way to real love? Or will the captain force her into a life that’s not only miserable, but destined to end too soon?

A story about bravery and vulnerability, this reimagined version of Peter Pan will carry you on an adventure that brings romance to the forefront of a beloved tale.]]> 255 Annette K. Larsen Allison 0 4.34 2022 Hooked (Tales of Winberg #1)
author: Annette K. Larsen
name: Allison
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2022
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, retelling, fairytale, romance-clean-sweet, published-2020s, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait
review:

]]> The Unlucky Prince 147374057 *See all of the books in the Once Upon a Prince Series HERE.*

A sacrifice to duty. Magic gone awry. And a prince with the worst luck on the continent.

Prince Ari has always struggled to find his place in his own kingdom…maybe because he spent half his childhood trapped in a swan’s body. His mother thinks he should find a wife and settle down, but far from being subdued by his past brush with magic, he’s convinced life has more adventure for him yet. That belief takes him to the neighboring kingdom—their former enemies who are now their allies.

Princess Violet expects nothing from the foreign prince’s visit, except maybe a last chance for some lighthearted fun. After all, she still has a few days before carrying out her secret plan to sacrifice her heart for the sake of the kingdom. Prince Ari will be leaving soon, so where’s the harm in a bit of flirtation?

Except neither of them have any idea of the forces working against their plans, both from inside the castle and from within their own hearts. And that’s before Ari falls afoul of the worst luck imaginable. As it turns out, being cursed to be a frog is even worse than being a swan.

Ari’s apparent absence only clears the way for darker plots, but fortunately amphibians see things humans don’t. It will take both a determined princess and a more-than-usually resourceful frog to uncover what’s really going on before it’s too late—both for Violet’s heart and the future of the kingdom.

The Unlucky Prince, a retelling of The Frog Prince, is book 1 of Once Upon A Prince, a multi-author series of clean fairy tale retellings. Each standalone novella features a swoony prince and his flaws, growth, and happily ever after.

This novella is set in the world of The Kingdom Tales, a completed series of six clean fairy tale retellings by Deborah Grace White. The Unlucky Prince takes place four years after the end of the series, but can be enjoyed without any prior reading.]]> 190 Deborah Grace White 1925898784 Allison 0 4.21 The Unlucky Prince
author: Deborah Grace White
name: Allison
average rating: 4.21
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, fantasy-fairytale, fantasy-romance, retelling, published-2020s, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, romance-clean-sweet
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Crimson Claws (The Ruby Realm #1)]]> 62862620 A Retelling of Little Red Riding Hood.

Roisen Karro and her grandmother run the most beloved bakery in the province of Omaira. Ever since her father disappeared seven years ago, Ro has decided there is no place for a man in her heart, especially an obnoxiously flirty woodcutter. Unfortunately, her granny has no issue encouraging the young man’s advances toward her.
At the far end of Omaira, a strange foreigner washes up on the shores and finds himself amongst the ranks of a nefarious group of beasts. With no knowledge of the Ruby Realm or even a grasp on their language, the foreigner agrees to do their dirty work until he gets back on his feet. All they asked him to do was kidnap some girl from a bakery, anyway...
As Ro discovers there is more behind her father’s disappearance than she knew, she finds herself entangled in the schemes of a sly new foe. With only the clothes on her back and a pack of wolves on her heels, Ro must find her way back to her granny before it’s too late for them both. Will Ro be able to survive the hunt? Or will the beasts swallow her family whole...?

The Ruby Realm is a collection of clean, intercepting stories, inspired by classic fairy tales.]]> 238 Abigail Manning Allison 0 4.29 Crimson Claws (The Ruby Realm #1)
author: Abigail Manning
name: Allison
average rating: 4.29
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, fantasy-fairytale, fantasy-romance, retelling, first-in-series, published-2020s, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, romance-clean-sweet
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Her Fae Secret (Regency Magic Faerie Tales #1)]]> 96148592
Due to the restoration of peace, James Weston has returned to England after seven years of service as a magician in the Royal Navy. He isn't looking for a wife; he's looking for a new career path. But he can't deny that Eleanor is everything he's ever wanted and more.

Can their love survive her family's secret?

Enjoy this YA retelling of Grimm's "Twelve Dancing Princesses," set in a Regency London where Faeries are real and magic is an acceptable accomplishment for young ladies.]]> 222 Eliza Prokopovits Allison 0 4.05 Her Fae Secret (Regency Magic Faerie Tales #1)
author: Eliza Prokopovits
name: Allison
average rating: 4.05
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: to-read, historical-fantasy, fantasy-romance, fantasy-fairytale, first-in-series, published-2020s, priority, at-library, regency, setting-1800s, setting-england, romance-clean-sweet
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Spy Master's Scheme (Glass and Steele #12)]]> 58353161
But it’s wise to be wary of the attention.

When the wool magician who helped India create a flying carpet spell disappears, his wife is worried for his life. India and Matt are worried for the country. If the person who stole the spell also kidnapped the wool magician, they could use flying carpets as vehicles of war. The closer they get to finding him, the more they realize they can’t trust anyone, not even the government. When it’s revealed that England’s spy master has plans for India’s talents, she refuses to cooperate.

But Matt knows it’s not as simple as refusing. Every decision has a repercussion.

And repercussions can be deadly.]]> 276 C.J. Archer Allison 0 3.50 2021 The Spy Master's Scheme (Glass and Steele #12)
author: C.J. Archer
name: Allison
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves: to-read, sequels-next, historical-fantasy, setting-1800s, setting-england, published-2020s
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Toymaker's Curse (Glass and Steele #11)]]> 55870272
After a toymaker magician gives a lecture at a collector’s club soiree, an important spell is stolen and a man is found strangled. The investigation into his murder leads India and Matt to the colorful and dangerous world of the Romany gypsy where curses are used as weapons against their enemies.

But nobody seems to know if curses are real or not.

As Matt and India close in on the killer, old foes bring trouble into their lives. With the threat of exposure hanging over London’s magicians, disaster is never far away. Then one fateful day, catastrophe strikes the Park Street household.]]> C.J. Archer Allison 3 3.60 2021 The Toymaker's Curse (Glass and Steele #11)
author: C.J. Archer
name: Allison
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/01
date added: 2025/04/01
shelves: historical-fantasy, setting-1800s, setting-england
review:

]]> The Hanging City 63127235 For a young woman who wields the power of fear, humanity’s greatest enemy is her only hope in a new fairy-tale adventure by Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Charlie N. Holmberg.

Seven years on the run from her abusive father, and with no hope of sanctuary among the dwindling pockets of human civilization, Lark is out of options. Her only leverage is a cursed power: she can thrust fear onto others, leaving all threats fleeing in terror. It’s a means of survival as she searches for a place to call home. If the campfire myths of her childhood are true, Lark’s sole chance for refuge could lie in Cagmar, the city of trolls—a brutal species and the sworn enemies of humanity.

Valuing combat prowess, the troll high council is intrigued. Lark could be much more useful than the low-caste humans who merely labor in Cagmar. Her gift makes her invaluable as a monster slayer to fight off the unspeakable creatures that torment the trolls� hanging city, suspended from a bridge over an endless dark canyon.

Lark will do anything to make Cagmar her home, but her new role comes with a caveat: use her power against a troll, and she’ll be killed. Her loyalty is quickly put to the test when she draws the hatred of a powerful troll who loathes humankind. Still, she finds unexpected friendship in the city and, even more surprisingly, love. But if everything else doesn’t undo her, being caught in the arms of a troll surely will. Now in the fight of her life, Lark has a lot to learn—about her past, about trust and hope when all seems lost, and above all, about the extraordinary power of fear itself.]]> 344 Charlie N. Holmberg 1662508719 Allison 0 3.96 2023 The Hanging City
author: Charlie N. Holmberg
name: Allison
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2023
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: own-ebook, fantasy, trolls, ebook-freebie, published-2020s, kindle-unlimited, currently-reading, 2025-book-hoarder
review:

]]> The Eterna Files 22724457
Their first mission: find the Eterna Compound, which grants immortality. Catastrophe destroyed the hidden laboratory in New York City where Eterna was developed, but the Queen is convinced someone escaped—and has a sample of Eterna.

Also searching for Eterna is an American, Clara Templeton, who helped start the project after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln nearly destroyed her nation. Haunted by the ghost of her beloved, she is determined that the Eterna Compound—and the immortality it will convey—will be controlled by the United States, not Great Britain.]]> 320 Leanna Renee Hieber Allison 3 3.29 2015 The Eterna Files
author: Leanna Renee Hieber
name: Allison
average rating: 3.29
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: first-in-series, cliffhanger, historical-fantasy, setting-england, setting-america, setting-1800s, series-complete, published-2010s, victorian, own-ebook, 2025-book-hoarder, 2025-dust-the-shelf, ghosts, paranormal
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Pawn of Prophecy (The Belgariad, #1)]]> 16281322 BOOK 1 OF THE BELGARIAD, the worldwide bestselling fantasy series by master storyteller David Eddings. Discover the epic story that inspired thousands - from Raymond Feist's The Riftwar Cycle series to George R. R. Martin's A Game of Thrones.

A battle is coming...

...And in that battle shall be decided

the fate of the world

Myths tell of the ancient wars of Gods and men, and a powerful object - the Orb - that ended the bloodshed. As long as it was held by the line of Riva, it would assure the peace.

But a dark force has stolen the Orb, and the prophecies tell of war.

Young farm boy Garion knows nothing of myth or fate. But then the mysterious Old Storyteller visits his aunt, and they embark on a sudden journey. Pursued by evil forces, with only a small band of companions they can trust, Garion begins to doubt all he thought he knew...]]> 236 David Eddings 1407058711 Allison 0 3.94 1982 Pawn of Prophecy (The Belgariad, #1)
author: David Eddings
name: Allison
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1982
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: first-in-series, series-complete, nephew-try, witches-wizards-mages, published-1980s, at-library, epic-fantasy, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Marque and Reprisal (Vatta's War, #2)]]> 6425722
The exciting military career she hoped for never got off the ground-but Ky Vatta ended up seeing plenty of combat when she took the helm of one of the commercial transport vessels in her family's fleet . . . and steered it into a full-blown war. Now the lessons she learned in that trial by fire are about to pay because this time, the war has come to her. To be exact, someone unknown has launched a full-throttle offensive against Vatta Transport Ltd., Ky's father's interstellar shipping empire. In short order, most of Ky's family is killed, and subsequent attacks sever vital lines of communication, leaving Ky fighting, in every sense, to survive.

Determined to identify the ruthless mystery enemy and avenge her family's name, Ky needs not only firepower but information. And she gets both in spades-from the band of stranded mercenaries she hooks up with, from her black-sheep cousin, Stella, who's been leading a secret life, and from Stella's roguish ex-lover, Rafe. Together they struggle to penetrate the tangled web of political intrigue that's wreaking havoc within InterStellar Communications, whose effective operation their own livelihoods-and perhaps lives-depend on.

But the infighting proves to be infectious, and it isn't long before Ky's hired military muscle are turning their suspicions on the enigmatic Rafe, whose wealth of knowledge about ISC's clashing factions and startling new technologies has begun to make him smell like a rat . . . or a mole. With swift, violent destruction a very real possibility, the last thing Ky needs is a crew divided against itself-and she's prepared to take whatever measures are necessary to ensure that Vatta stays in business, as well as in one piece.

What she's not prepared for is the shocking truth behind the terror- and a confrontation with murderous treachery from a source as unexpected as it is unrelenting.]]> 314 Elizabeth Moon 0345480511 Allison 0 3.98 2004 Marque and Reprisal (Vatta's War, #2)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Allison
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2004
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, sequels-next, science-fiction, space-opera, published-2000s, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Pandora's Star (Commonwealth Saga #1)]]> 6136470
The year is 2380. The Intersolar Commonwealth, a sphere of stars some four hundred light-years in diameter, contains more than six hundred worlds, interconnected by a web of transport "tunnels" known as wormholes. At the farthest edge of the Commonwealth, astronomer Dudley Bose observes the Over one thousand light-years away, a star... vanishes. It does not go supernova. It does not collapse into a black hole. It simply disappears. Since the location is too distant to reach by wormhole, a faster-than-light starship, the Second Chance, is dispatched to learn what has occurred and whether it represents a threat. In command is Wilson Kime, a five-time rejuvenated ex-NASA pilot whose glory days are centuries behind him.

Opposed to the mission are the Guardians of Selfhood, a cult that believes the human race is being manipulated by an alien entity they call the Starflyer. Bradley Johansson, leader of the Guardians, warns of sabotage, fearing the Starflyer means to use the starship's mission for its own ends.

Pursued by a Commonwealth special agent convinced the Guardians are crazy but dangerous, Johansson flees. But the danger is not averted. Aboard the Second Chance, Kime wonders if his crew has been infiltrated. Soon enough, he will have other worries. A thousand light-years away, something truly incredible is a deadly discovery whose unleashing will threaten to destroy the Commonwealth... and humanity itself.

Could it be that Johansson was right?]]> 992 Peter F. Hamilton 0345472195 Allison 0 4.22 2004 Pandora's Star (Commonwealth Saga #1)
author: Peter F. Hamilton
name: Allison
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2004
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, science-fiction, space-opera, first-in-series, cliffhanger, series-complete, published-2000s, epic, series-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Splendor's Orbit (The MacLee Chronicles #1)]]> 199288904 Now, presumed dead, she prefers to keep a low profile. Working as a pilot on a freighter ship, she occasionally accepts the odd refugee passenger to appease her humanitarian conscience. But things go downhill when her cargo turns out to be none other than the princess of an alien race and her two bodyguards.
Embroiled in a galaxy-wide conspiracy, Captain Colderaro finds herself dodging the Confederacy Task Force, fighting space pirates, and evading mercenaries intent on capturing the princess.
Can she make it to the alien planet without losing or damaging her cargo while still keeping her real identity a secret?]]> 234 Jina S. Bazzar Allison 0 4.15 2023 Splendor's Orbit (The MacLee Chronicles #1)
author: Jina S. Bazzar
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, first-in-series, series-complete, space-opera, science-fiction, tck-author, published-2020s, indie-self-pub, kindle-unlimited, kindle-unlimited-wait, series-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Full Speed to a Crash Landing (Chaotic Orbits #1)]]> 204269569
But Ada doesn’t care—all that matters to her is enjoying their fine food and sweet, sweet oxygen—until Rian White, the government agent in charge, starts to suspect that there’s more to Ada than meets the eye. He’s not wrong—but he’s so pretty that Ada is perfectly happy to keep him paying attention to her—at least until she can complete the job she was sent to pull off. But as quick as Ada is, Rian might be quicker—and she may not be entirely sure who’s manipulating who until it’s too late�

A phenomenally fun novella that kicks off a trilogy of sexy space heists and romantic tension, Full Speed to a Crash Landing is packed with great characters and full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end.]]> 192 Beth Revis 0756419476 Allison 0 4.02 2024 Full Speed to a Crash Landing (Chaotic Orbits #1)
author: Beth Revis
name: Allison
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, space-opera, sci-fi-romance, first-in-series, series-ends-2025, published-2020s, at-library, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Star Nomad (Fallen Empire, #1)]]> 30268506
But she has a plan.

Steal a dilapidated and malfunctioning freighter from a junkyard full of lawless savages. Slightly suicidal, but she believes she can do it. Her plan, however, does not account for the elite cyborg soldier squatting in the freighter, intending to use it for his own purposes. As an imperial soldier, he has no love for Alliance pilots. In fact, he's quite fond of killing them.

Alisa has more problems than she can count, but she can't let cyborgs, savages, or ancient malfunctioning ships stand in her way. If she does, she’ll never see her daughter again.

Fans of Firefly and Star Wars should enjoy this fun, fast-paced new series from USA Today best-selling author, Lindsay Buroker.]]> 229 Lindsay Buroker Allison 0 4.12 2016 Star Nomad (Fallen Empire, #1)
author: Lindsay Buroker
name: Allison
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, own-ebook, ebook-freebie, first-in-series, science-fiction, space-opera, romance-little-to-none, published-2010s, series-complete, series-wait, own-unread-wait, author-previously-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Empress Capsule (Audacity Saga, #1)]]> 38214057
At 22, Commander Ellen Ryu is a little young to be "retired." Yet she’s planned—and bled in—more battles than veterans twice her age. And, well, she didn’t exactly retire so much as desert. Betrayed by her superiors, turned into a science experiment, and nearly driven insane, Ellen seized the chance for freedom when a shadowy organization offered her a ship of her own and an elite, all-female crew. She's got a new mission now: get revenge on the scientist who almost destroyed her. Nobody is going to get in her way this time. Especially not the merc who's just shown up at her cargo hatch, looking to hitch a ride.

MERCENARY. CONVICT. RENEGADE.

In the middle of an op gone wrong, cyborg mercenary Kael Sidassian gets stuck with a mission he can't refuse: carry a capsule to safety, the contents of which would bring the galaxy down on his head if anyone knew what was inside. But he’s also got damaged hardware inside his head and a plan to escape from the merc company that forcibly conscripted him over ten years ago. So when a humanitarian ship grants him passage, he thanks his lucky stars for a job that'll solve all his problems at once. That is, if the attachment he’s forming to the ship’s commander—one that goes way beyond duty and loyalty—doesn’t get in the way.

As a new threat rises, the prodigy and the screw-up discover far more in common than they ever thought possible. Now both their missions will have to wait, because if they aren't audacious enough to work together, they'll never survive what's coming for them. For lovers of romantic space opera, Lois McMaster Bujold, and David Weber, THE EMPRESS CAPSULE is the first volume in the Audacity series.]]> 330 R.K. Thorne Allison 0 4.23 2018 The Empress Capsule (Audacity Saga, #1)
author: R.K. Thorne
name: Allison
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, space-opera, sci-fi-romance, first-in-series, published-2010s, series-complete, series-wait, kindle-unlimited-wait, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Chilling Effect (Chilling Effect, #1)]]> 42442350
Captain Eva Innocente and the crew of La Sirena Negra cruise the galaxy delivering small cargo for even smaller profits. When her sister Mari is kidnapped by The Fridge, a shadowy syndicate that holds people hostage in cryostasis, Eva must undergo a series of unpleasant, dangerous missions to pay the ransom.

But Eva may lose her mind before she can raise the money. The ship’s hold is full of psychic cats, an amorous fish-faced emperor wants her dead after she rejects his advances, and her sweet engineer is giving her a pesky case of feelings. The worse things get, the more she lies, raising suspicions and testing her loyalty to her found family.

To free her sister, Eva will risk everything: her crew, her ship, and the life she’s built on the ashes of her past misdeeds. But when the dominoes start to fall and she finds the real threat is greater than she imagined, she must decide whether to play it cool or burn it all down.]]> 448 Valerie Valdes 0062877240 Allison 0 3.69 2019 Chilling Effect (Chilling Effect, #1)
author: Valerie Valdes
name: Allison
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, science-fiction, space-opera, published-2010s, first-in-series, series-complete, at-library, series-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lightwave: Clocker (Folding Space #1)]]> 40196465
A secret that allows safe travel between star systems.

Saree’s the only human Clocker � she tunes space-fold clocks. But�

If anyone knew, she would be betrayed � forced to blockade and blackmail systems for evil crime lords or corporations.

With a bounty hunter on her heels, Saree jumps on Lightwave Fold Transport, the safest option. But will Lightwave’s crew protect her? Do they suspect who she’s become? Can Saree keep her secret safe?]]> 370 A.M. Scott Allison 0 4.09 2018 Lightwave: Clocker (Folding Space #1)
author: A.M. Scott
name: Allison
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, space-opera, science-fiction, first-in-series, ebook-freebie, own-ebook, indie-self-pub, series-complete, own-unread
review:

]]> Bounty War (Parse Galaxy #2) 61022189
Yes, she hired her last bounty target to work on her ship instead of turning him in. And yes, she supposes she can see why the Cosmic Trade Federation might take issue with that.

They don't have to shoot at her over it, though.

When Sloane's new client offers her a lead on her uncle's whereabouts in exchange for her help in tracking down an elusive pirate-type, Sloane figures she might finally be on the path to fixing this messed-up situation. She's always been overly optimistic that way.

But every step Sloane takes feels like the wrong one � and the Federation refuses to drop its grudge. If she doesn't take care, she's bound to stumble into a trap� and this time, she might just take the whole galaxy down with her…]]> 217 Kate Sheeran Swed Allison 0 4.32 Bounty War (Parse Galaxy #2)
author: Kate Sheeran Swed
name: Allison
average rating: 4.32
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: not-at-library, science-fiction, space-opera, published-2020s, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read, priority
review:

]]> Komarr (Vorkosigan Saga, #11) 22752871
Komarr could be a garden-with a thousand more years work. or an uninhabitable wasteland, if the terraforming fails. Now the solar mirror vital to the terraforming of the conquered planet has been shattered by a ship hurtling off course. The Emperor of Barrayar sends his newest Imperial Auditor, Lord Miles Vorkosigan, to find out why.

The choice is not a popular one on Komarr, where a betrayal a generation before drenched the name of Vorkosigan in blood. In the political and physical claustrophobia of the domed cities, are the Komarrans surrounding Miles loyal subjects, potential hostages, innocent victims, or rebels bidding for revenge

Lies within lies, treachery within treachery-Miles is caught in a race against time to stop a plot that could exile him from Barrayar forever. His burning hope lies in an unexpected ally, one with wounds as deep and honor as beleaguered as his own.]]> Lois McMaster Bujold Allison 0 3.92 1998 Komarr (Vorkosigan Saga, #11)
author: Lois McMaster Bujold
name: Allison
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1998
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: science-fiction, space-opera, published-1990s, at-library, sequels-next, to-read, priority, author-previously-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (Wayfarers, #1)]]> 25201920
Rosemary Harper doesn’t expect much when she joins the crew of the aging Wayfarer. While the patched-up ship has seen better days, it offers her a bed, a chance to explore the far-off corners of the galaxy, and most importantly, some distance from her past. An introspective young woman who learned early to keep to herself, she’s never met anyone remotely like the ship’s diverse crew, including Sissix, the exotic reptilian pilot, chatty engineers Kizzy and Jenks who keep the ship running, and Ashby, their noble captain.

Life aboard the Wayfarer is chaotic and crazy—exactly what Rosemary wants. It’s also about to get extremely dangerous when the crew is offered the job of a lifetime. Tunneling wormholes through space to a distant planet is definitely lucrative and will keep them comfortable for years. But risking her life wasn’t part of the plan. In the far reaches of deep space, the tiny Wayfarer crew will confront a host of unexpected mishaps and thrilling adventures that force them to depend on each other. To survive, Rosemary’s got to learn how to rely on this assortment of oddballs—an experience that teaches her about love and trust, and that having a family isn’t necessarily the worst thing in the universe.]]> 519 Becky Chambers Allison 0 4.19 2014 The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (Wayfarers, #1)
author: Becky Chambers
name: Allison
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, kindle-unlimited, science-fiction, space-opera, published-2010s, first-in-series, series-complete, at-library
review:

]]> Linesman (Linesman, #1) 25709214 First in a brand new thought-provoking science fiction series.

The lines. No ship can traverse the void without them. Only linesmen can work with them. But only Ean Lambert hears their song. And everyone thinks he’s crazy�

Most slum kids never go far, certainly not becoming a level-ten linesman like Ean. Even if he’s part of a small, and unethical, cartel, and the other linesmen disdain his self-taught methods, he’s certified and working.

Then a mysterious alien ship is discovered at the edges of the galaxy. Each of the major galactic powers is desperate to be the first to uncover the ship’s secrets, but all they’ve learned is that it has the familiar lines of energy—and a defense system that, once triggered, annihilates everything in a 200 kilometer radius.

The vessel threatens any linesman who dares to approach it, except Ean. His unique talents may be the key to understanding this alarming new force—and reconfiguring the relationship between humans and the ships that serve them, forever.]]> 373 S.K. Dunstall 0698187660 Allison 0 4.15 2015 Linesman (Linesman, #1)
author: S.K. Dunstall
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: science-fiction, first-in-series, series-complete, space-opera, published-2010s, to-read, at-library, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> Space Opera (Space Opera, #1) 36136118
Once every cycle, the civilizations gather for the Metagalactic Grand Prix—part gladiatorial contest, part beauty pageant, part concert extravaganza, and part continuation of the wars of the past. Instead of competing in orbital combat, the powerful species that survived face off in a competition of song, dance, or whatever can be physically performed in an intergalactic talent show. The stakes are high for this new game, and everyone is forced to compete.

This year, though, humankind has discovered the enormous universe. And while they expected to discover a grand drama of diplomacy, gunships, wormholes, and stoic councils of aliens, they have instead found glitter, lipstick, and electric guitars. Mankind will not get to fight for its destiny—they must sing.

A band of human musicians, dancers, and roadies have been chosen to represent Earth on the greatest stage in the galaxy. And the fate of their species lies in their ability to rock.]]> 301 Catherynne M. Valente 1481497510 Allison 0 3.61 2018 Space Opera (Space Opera, #1)
author: Catherynne M. Valente
name: Allison
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, games-competitions, science-fiction, space-opera, published-2010s, at-library, weird, author-previously-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[How Rory Thorne Destroyed the Multiverse (The Thorne Chronicles, #1)]]> 45154546 Così, Rory si ritrova al centro di un intrigo interplanetario, a poter contare unicamente sul suo ingegno e su una piccola squadra di alleati. Per fortuna, anche se ha solo sedici anni, ha già capito piuttosto bene la teoria del multiverso ed è stata istruita nell� la scienza che manipola i principi matematici alla base di ogni cosa. Quindi, sa che tutto è possibile (se non probabile), persino tentare di battere il Reggente e salvare il principe.

A metà tra Bottondoro e la principessa Leila, Rory Thorne è la protagonista di una storia di formazione dal sapore nuovo, in cui basta la giusta dose di piccoli gesti di ribellione perché una damigella in pericolo possa salvarsi da sola, rovesciare un governo e persino cambiare il destino del multiverso.
Il romanzo di Eason ha ricevuto recensioni entusiastiche da “School Library Journal�, “Kirkus�, e “Booklist� ed è stato inserito nelle liste “Best of� di “Bookish�, “Hey Alma� e del “Sci-Fi & Fantasy Blog� di Barnes & Noble’s.]]> 416 K. Eason 0756415306 Allison 0 3.83 2019 How Rory Thorne Destroyed the Multiverse (The Thorne Chronicles, #1)
author: K. Eason
name: Allison
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: fairytale, space-opera, first-in-series, duology, published-2010s, series-complete, to-read, at-library, series-wait, science-fantasy, science-fiction
review:

]]> Stardoc (Stardoc, #1) 8264725 404 S.L. Viehl 1101119284 Allison 0 4.09 2000 Stardoc (Stardoc, #1)
author: S.L. Viehl
name: Allison
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2000
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: series-complete, romantic-elements, first-in-series, science-fiction, space-opera, healers, published-2000s, to-read, not-at-library, dust-the-shelf, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Local Custom (Liaden Universe, #5)]]> 288757 320 Sharon Lee 0441009115 Allison 0 4.26 2002 Local Custom (Liaden Universe, #5)
author: Sharon Lee
name: Allison
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2002
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, at-library, sci-fi-romance, published-2000s, author-previously-read, sequels-next, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Heart of Iron (Heart of Iron, #1)]]> 35422236 An action-packed tale full of romance, royalty, and adventure, inspired by the story of Anastasia. Perfect for fans of Six of Crows, Cinder, and the cult classic television show Firefly.

Seventeen-year-old Ana is a scoundrel by nurture and an outlaw by nature. Found as a child drifting through space with a sentient android called D09, Ana was saved by a fearsome space captain and the grizzled crew she now calls family. But D09—one of the last remaining illegal Metals—has been glitching, and Ana will stop at nothing to find a way to fix him.

Ana’s desperate effort to save D09 leads her on a quest to steal the coordinates to a lost ship that could offer all the answers. But at the last moment, a spoiled Ironblood boy beats Ana to her prize. He has his own reasons for taking the coordinates, and he doesn’t care what he’ll sacrifice to keep them.

When everything goes wrong, she and the Ironblood end up as fugitives on the run. Now their entire kingdom is after them—and the coordinates—and not everyone wants them captured alive.

What they find in a lost corner of the universe will change all their lives—and unearth dangerous secrets. But when a darkness from Ana’s past returns, she must face an impossible choice: does she protect a kingdom that wants her dead or save the Metal boy she loves?]]> 480 Ashley Poston 0062652877 Allison 0 3.79 2018 Heart of Iron (Heart of Iron, #1)
author: Ashley Poston
name: Allison
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: sci-fi-romance, science-fiction, young-adult, first-in-series, published-2010s, duology, series-complete, to-read, at-library, series-wait
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rules of Redemption (The Firebird Chronicles, #1)]]> 43954881 The war everyone thought was over is just beginning.

Kira Forrest is a survivor. She’s risen above the pain of her beginnings to become a war hero only to leave it all behind in the pursuit of a simple life. Now a salvager, she makes a living sifting through the wreckage of dead alien ships from a war that nearly brought humanity to its knees.

After her ship takes damage, she’s forced to re-route to a space station where her past and present collide with dangerous consequences.

Kira’s existence holds the key to a faltering peace treaty with the Tuann—a technologically advanced alien race who dislikes and distrusts all humans. Winning her freedom should be easy, but a powerful and relentless Tuann warrior stands in her way. Deceiving him seems impossible, especially when he strays dangerously close to secrets she struggles to hide.

Can Kira reconcile the pain of her past with the possibilities of her future? The fate of two races depends on her success.]]> 420 T.A. White Allison 0 4.35 2019 Rules of Redemption (The Firebird Chronicles, #1)
author: T.A. White
name: Allison
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: sci-fi-romance, first-in-series, published-2010s, to-read, at-library, series-wait, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Brand of Light (The Droseran Saga Book 1)]]> 50924480 There's a price on her head, and it has everything to do with the brand on her arm.

Tertian Space Coalition has blessed every planet in the quadrants with high technology, save one: Drosero. But in spite of their tenuous treaty with the ruling clans, TSC has plans for the backward planet. And they're not alone.

After a catastrophic explosion, Kersei Dragoumis awakens in a derelict shuttle, alone, injured, and ignorant of the forbidden technology that has swept her into a nightmare. The brand she's borne since childhood burns mysteriously, but the pain is nothing to that when she learns her family is dead and she is accused of their murders.

Across the quadrants, Marco Dusan responds to the call of a holy order—not to join them, but to seek a bounty. Gifted—or cursed—with abilities that mark him a Kynigos, a tracker sworn to bring interplanetary fugitives to justice, Marco discovers this particular bounty has nothing to do with justice and everything to do with prophecy. One that involves the hunter as much as the hunted.

]]> 467 Ronie Kendig 1621840948 Allison 0 4.55 2019 Brand of Light (The Droseran Saga Book 1)
author: Ronie Kendig
name: Allison
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read, sci-fi-romance, christian-author, tck-author, published-2010s, first-in-series, at-library, series-complete, series-wait, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Doctor Galaxy (Pax Galactica #1)]]> 61289404
Being pursued by camera drones and starring in her very own Welcome-to-the-Universe documentary was never on Alexi's to do list. She's positive the show will flop. After all, Alexi is boring. That's why her boyfriend left her for her stepsister.

But as trillions of aliens tune in to watch Alexi discover the universe in Doctor Galaxy, what she discovers is the existential threat facing humanity.

Major Soren Agha already knows about the danger. He's currently playing peacekeeper for the Eripi of the Pariah Sector whose tragic fate could be humanity's: conquered, exploited, lost.

Can one dedicated doctor save humanity? Can she, as Soren believes, also save the Eripi? And would anyone really notice if she sabotaged a couple of pesky camera drones?

***
Doctor Galaxy is a medical romantic comedy and a space opera. Reality TV has never been so alien!]]> 231 Jenny Schwartz Allison 0 4.25 2022 Doctor Galaxy (Pax Galactica #1)
author: Jenny Schwartz
name: Allison
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: sci-fi-romance, kindle-unlimited, healers, published-2020s, indie-self-pub, cross-cultural-experience, to-read, series-companion-novels, first-in-series, series-wait, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Matrimonial Advertisement (Parish Orphans of Devon, #1)]]> 40494228 She Wanted Sanctuary...

Helena Reynolds will do anything to escape her life in London, even if that means traveling to a remote cliffside estate on the North Devon coast and marrying a complete stranger. But Greyfriar's Abbey isn't the sort of refuge she imagined. And ex-army captain Justin Thornhill--though he may be tall, dark, and devastatingly handsome--is anything but a romantic hero.

He Needed Redemption...

Justin has spent the last two decades making his fortune, settling scores, and suffering a prolonged period of torture in an Indian prison. Now, he needs someone to smooth the way for him with the villagers. Someone to manage his household--and warm his bed on occasion. What he needs, in short, is a wife and a matrimonial advertisement seems the perfect way to acquire one.

Their marriage was meant to be a business arrangement and nothing more. A dispassionate union free from the entanglements of love and affection. But when Helena's past threatens, will Justin's burgeoning feelings for his new bride compel him to come to her rescue? Or will dark secrets of his own force him to let her go?]]> 348 Mimi Matthews 0999036440 Allison 3 4.07 2018 The Matrimonial Advertisement (Parish Orphans of Devon, #1)
author: Mimi Matthews
name: Allison
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2020/06/10
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: indie-self-pub, romance, gothic, by-the-sea, published-2010s, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, old-manor-castle-house, series-companion-novels, first-in-series, romance-closed-door, victorian, series-finished-reading, following, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Ace of Hearts (Larkhall Letters #1)]]> 50667196 A secret venture, a regrettable love letter, and a heart he can't afford to lose.

Faced with her stepbrother’s betrayal and an unwanted marriage, Alice Rosemeyer accepts an invitation to the estate of Larkhall. Determined to earn her future security without a husband, she begins operating as the anonymous Ace of Hearts, writing love letters on behalf of the men eager to secure a match at the close of the London season. If she can manage to keep her identity secret, her reputation intact, and avoid the arrogant house guest, Mr. Thomas Herring, she might just call herself successful.

When Thomas Herring's sister marries an indebted man because of a love letter, he has no choice but to marry into money himself. Invited to stay at Larkhall, he sets his sights on the wealthy sister of his host. When she appears indifferent, he stumbles upon an advertisement: a gentleman offering assistance in matters of the heart. An ace, so he is called. But when he turns out to be she, and also a guest at the same house, his task is further complicated—especially as Alice proves herself to be as captivating as she is clever.

With reputations, secrets, and more than one heart at risk, Alice and Thomas become trapped in a game with no rules, a game neither intended to play. Had they been wrong to play love for a fool?

The Ace of Hearts is a sweet regency romance novel, book one in the Larkhall Letters series by Ashtyn Newbold.]]> 296 Ashtyn Newbold Allison 4 4.10 2020 The Ace of Hearts (Larkhall Letters #1)
author: Ashtyn Newbold
name: Allison
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2023/01/18
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: kindle-unlimited, regency, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, published-2020s, indie-self-pub, romance-clean-sweet, series-read-2023, following, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lady Ludmilla's Accidental Letter (Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #1)]]> 60391368
Adrian St. Addington, hellrake extraordinaire, has a problem. He is developing a marked tendre for a spinster, and that cannot be. The problem? He suspects she is taking him for someone he is not. Or is it that she knows precisely who he is? Either possibility he finds profoundly disturbing. For he has a role to uphold, cost what may. And a depraved heart like his surely cannot fall in love…least of all with a plain, outspoken spinster.

Determined to discover the truth behind the man she loves, Lu does what she does best: she sits down and writes a letter�


Escape into the world of the Regency ton with Sofi Laporte's new series, where spinsters are merry, rakes are charming, and no one is who they seem.]]> 266 Sofi Laporte Allison 4 4.12 2022 Lady Ludmilla's Accidental Letter (Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #1)
author: Sofi Laporte
name: Allison
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/06/08
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: kindle-unlimited, historical-romance, regency, setting-1800s, setting-england, indie-self-pub, tck-author, romance-clean-sweet, series-read-2023, following, mom-try
review:

]]> The Bards of Bone Plain 10228522 The latest "rich, resonant" (Publishers Weekly) fantasy from the World Fantasy Award-winning author of The Bell at Sealey Head.

Eager to graduate from the school on the hill, Phelan Cle chose Bone Plain for his final paper because he thought it would be an easy topic. Immortalized by poets and debated by scholars, it was commonly accepted-even at a school steeped in bardic tradition-that Bone Plain, with its three trials, three terrors, and three treasures, was nothing more than a legend, a metaphor. But as his research leads him to the life of Nairn, the Wandering Bard, the Unforgiven, Phelan starts to wonder if there are any easy answers...]]> 336 Patricia A. McKillip 1101445815 Allison 4 4.25 2010 The Bards of Bone Plain
author: Patricia A. McKillip
name: Allison
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2023/09/07
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: fantasy, archaeology, published-2010s, at-library, dust-the-shelf-2023, multiple-timelines, artistic-characters, celtic, romance-closed-door, following, mom-try
review:
I enjoyed this overall, but the ending was a little confusing. I'll be puzzling it out for a couple days, I think.
]]> <![CDATA[A School for Unusual Girls (Stranje House #1)]]> 24422345 A School for Unusual Girls is the first installment in the Stranje House series for young adults by award-winning author Kathleen Baldwin.

It’s 1814. Napoleon is exiled on Elba. Europe is in shambles. Britain is at war on four fronts. And Stranje House,Ìýa School for Unusual Girls, has become one of Regency England’s dark little secrets. The daughters of theÌýbeau mondeÌýwho don’t fit high society’s constrictive mold are banished to Stranje House to be reformed into marriageable young ladies. Or so their parents think. In truth, Headmistress Emma Stranje, the original unusual girl, has plans for the young ladies—plans that entangle the girls in the dangerous world of spies, diplomacy, and war.

After accidentally setting her father’s stables on fire whileÌýperforming aÌýscientific experiment, Miss Georgiana Fitzwilliam is sentÌýto Stranje House. But Georgie has no intention of being turned into a simpering, pudding-headed, marriageable miss. She plans to escape as soon as possible—until she meets Lord Sebastian Wyatt. Thrust together in a desperate mission to invent a new invisible ink for the English war effort, Georgie and Sebastian must find a way to work together without losing their heads—or their hearts . . .]]> 353 Kathleen Baldwin 1466849274 Allison 4 3.98 2015 A School for Unusual Girls (Stranje House #1)
author: Kathleen Baldwin
name: Allison
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2019/03/04
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: young-adult, paranormal, first-in-series, setting-1800s, setting-england, boarding-school, fantasy-of-manners, gothic, series-companion-novels, spies, napoleonic-era, scientists, assassins, published-2010s, romance-clean-sweet, romance, regency, seers, own-physical-shelf, favorite-series, favorites, historical-fantasy, series-complete, following, series-finished-reading, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Winds of Courage (A Mage's Apprentice Book 1)]]> 186970725
Now Delphine needs her power, but to access it, she’ll have to apprentice herself to a traveling master. Amara is willing to take Delphine, but Delphine has a secret—one that will cripple her apprenticeship before it even begins. And once she leaves home, the secrets keep mounting.

On the road, Delphine’s healing power wins her a new friend—a wild fox she names Ember—but it also catches the attention of the dangerous man who abducted her friend, and of Nik, the mysterious mage hunting him. Now Delphine herself is in danger, and Nik might be her only way out. But first she has to overcome her crippling secrets and convince Nik that together they can be stronger than apart.

If you enjoy strong heroines, fantasy worlds, adventure, and clean romance, then try A Mage’s Apprentice, set in the same world as the completed Mage’s Influence series.

A Mage’s Apprentice reading
Winds of Courage
Storms of Allegiance
Tempests of Truth]]> 363 Melanie Cellier 1922636932 Allison 4 4.28 Winds of Courage (A Mage's Apprentice Book 1)
author: Melanie Cellier
name: Allison
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2023/11/30
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: spinoff, indie-self-pub, first-in-series, published-2020s, witches-wizards-mages, kindle-unlimited, favorite-series, healers, apprentices, series-complete, romance-clean-sweet, fantasy-young-adult, series-read-2023, series-finished-reading, mom-try
review:

]]> First Truth (Truth, #1) 6651103 356 Dawn Cook 1440619522 Allison 4 3.94 2002 First Truth (Truth, #1)
author: Dawn Cook
name: Allison
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/15
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: series-complete, romantic-elements, first-in-series, fantasy, cliffhanger, published-2000s, own-ebook, book-hoarder-2020, favorite-series, favorites, series-finished-reading, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Penric's Demon (Penric and Desdemona, #1)]]> 25891068
Set in the fantasy world of the author's acclaimed novels THE CURSE OF CHALION, PALADIN OF SOULS and THE HALLOWED HUNT, this novella has the depth of characterization and emotional complexity that distinguishes all Bujold's work.]]> 109 Lois McMaster Bujold Allison 3 3.89 2015 Penric's Demon (Penric and Desdemona, #1)
author: Lois McMaster Bujold
name: Allison
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2017/09/16
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: fantasy, own-ebook, first-in-series, romance-little-to-none, published-2010s, favorite-series, novella-short-story, indie-self-pub, series-episodic, mom-try
review:
Novellas are always a bit tricky for me. It's hard to get invested in something so short. Given how short it is, this one took its time to get going. The first half is slow. But once it started moving, I remembered why I love this world. I'm hoping the next one will be better because half of it won't be taken up with Penric learning what it means to be a sorcerer. I like both him and his demon though. Looking forward to reading more about them.
]]> <![CDATA[Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon (Jane Austen's Dragons, #1)]]> 75660147
Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley has the good fortune to be in possession of the first English firedrake egg laid in a century. Or, at least, he was until some miscreant stole it.

Mr. Darcy tracks the thief to Hertfordshire. Catching the thief, however, proves to be an entirely different kettle of brimstone, especially when he encounters fellow Dragon Keeper, Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn.

Elizabeth Bennet’s deep connection to dragons and remarkable grasp of their lore make her the ideal companion for finding the egg. It’s too bad that from their introduction she finds Darcy arrogant, conceited, and selfishly disdainful of the feelings
of others.

Time is running out for Darcy to win Elizabeth’s trust and recover the precious egg before it hatches, and the fragile peace between humans and dragons is lost forever.

Meryton meets Pern in a fantastical regency romp bound to delight readers of Jane Austen and Anne McCaffrey alike.

Book 1 in the Jane Austen's Dragons series.]]> 319 Maria Grace Allison 4 4.16 2016 Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon (Jane Austen's Dragons, #1)
author: Maria Grace
name: Allison
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: own-ebook, ebook-freebie, dragons, first-in-series, series-end-tbd, retelling, historical-fantasy, setting-1800s, setting-england, published-2010s, book-hoarder-2024, romantic-elements, romance-clean-sweet, kindle-unlimited, favorite-series, series-read-2024, following, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The House Witch (The House Witch, #1)]]> 61337597 A heartwarming and humorous blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery featuring a witch with domestic powers and the royal household he serves . . . dinner.

When Finlay Ashowan joins the staff of the King and Queen of Daxaria, he’s an enigma. No one knows where he comes from or how he came to be where he is, which suits Fin just fine. He’s satisfied simply serving as the royal cook, keeping nosy passersby out of his kitchen, and concocting some truly uncanny meals.

But Fin’s secret identity doesn’t stay hidden for long. After all, it’s not every day a house witch and his kitten familiar, Kraken, take to meddling in imperial affairs. As his powers are gradually discovered by the court, Fin finds himself involved in a slew of intrigues: going head-to-head with knights with less-than-chivalrous intentions, helping to protect the pregnant queen, fending off the ire of the royal mage, and uncovering a spy in the castle. And that’s only the beginning—because Fin’s past is catching up with him just as his love life is getting complicated . . .]]> 658 Delemhach 1039410243 Allison 4 4.16 2022 The House Witch (The House Witch, #1)
author: Delemhach
name: Allison
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/01/05
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: culinary, kindle-unlimited, fantasy, witches-wizards-mages, published-2020s, animals, romance-closed-door, adult-content, squeamish-alert, fantasy-romance, cozy-fantasy, first-in-series, series-complete, indie-self-pub, series-read-2023, series-finished-reading, following, favorite-series, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Daughter of the Pirate King (Daughter of the Pirate King, #1)]]> 33644022 There will be plenty of time for me to beat him soundly once I've gotten what I came for.

Sent on a mission to retrieve an ancient hidden map―the key to a legendary treasure trove―seventeen-year-old pirate captain Alosa deliberately allows herself to be captured by her enemies, giving her the perfect opportunity to search their ship.

More than a match for the ruthless pirate crew, Alosa has only one thing standing between her and the her captor, the unexpectedly clever and unfairly attractive first mate Riden. But not to worry, for Alosa has a few tricks up her sleeve, and no lone pirate can stop the Daughter of the Pirate King.

In Daughter of the Pirate King, author Tricia Levenseller blends action, adventure, romance, and a little bit of magic into a thrilling pirate tale.]]> 320 Tricia Levenseller 1250095972 Allison 4 4.04 2017 Daughter of the Pirate King (Daughter of the Pirate King, #1)
author: Tricia Levenseller
name: Allison
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/04
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: pirates, first-in-series, published-2010s, series-complete, kindle-unlimited, maritime, prisoners, romantic-elements, romance-closed-door, duology, fantasy-young-adult, series-read-2023, series-finished-reading, following, mom-liked
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rhythm of War (The Stormlight Archive, #4)]]> 17250966 The eagerly awaited sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling Oathbringer, from epic fantasy author Brandon Sanderson

After forming a coalition of human resistance against the enemy invasion, Dalinar Kholin and his Knights Radiant have spent a year fighting a protracted, brutal war. Neither side has gained an advantage, and the threat of a betrayal by Dalinar's crafty ally Taravangian looms over every strategic move.

Now, as new technological discoveries by Navani Kholin's scholars begin to change the face of the war, the enemy prepares a bold and dangerous operation. The arms race that follows will challenge the very core of the Radiant ideals, and potentially reveal the secrets of the ancient tower that was once the heart of their strength.

At the same time that Kaladin Stormblessed must come to grips with his changing role within the Knights Radiant, his Windrunners face their own problem: As more and more deadly enemy Fused awaken to wage war, no more honorspren are willing to bond with humans to increase the number of Radiants. Adolin and Shallan must lead the coalition’s envoy to the honorspren stronghold of Lasting Integrity and either convince the spren to join the cause against the evil god Odium, or personally face the storm of failure.]]> 1231 Brandon Sanderson Allison 0 4.66 2020 Rhythm of War (The Stormlight Archive, #4)
author: Brandon Sanderson
name: Allison
average rating: 4.66
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/25
shelves: epic-fantasy, published-2020s, currently-reading, 2025-series-progress
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wormwood Abbey (The Secrets of Ormdale, #1)]]> 198096255
Wormwood Abbey isn't just full of curious beasts and ancient family secrets: there’s also a tall, dark, and entirely too handsome neighbour who is strangely reluctant for her to leave.

An unexpected bond with her prickly cousin Gwendolyn gives Edith a reason to stay in this strange world � especially when it turns out that Edith herself may have a role in guarding her family's legacy.

But not all of the mysteries of Ormdale are small enough to fit in her lap...and some of them have teeth.

WORMWOOD ABBEY, Book 1 of The Secrets of Ormdale, is a cosy gothic novel of mystery, dragons, and the perils of friendship, perfect for fans of EMILY WILDE'S ENCYCLOPAEDIA OF FAERIES and Maria Grace.

Preorder today to explore the hidden valley of Ormdale, the first in a new 5 book series!]]> 208 Christina Baehr Allison 0 4.21 2023 Wormwood Abbey (The Secrets of Ormdale, #1)
author: Christina Baehr
name: Allison
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, own-ebook, ebook-freebie, historical-fantasy, gothic, published-2020s, first-in-series, setting-1800s, setting-england, victorian, dragons, series-complete, own-unread, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[In Lieu of a Princess (Royals & Rebels, #1)]]> 63270782 When Lucinda North agrees to impersonate a missing princess, she finds herself living at Buckingham Palace, evading a killer � and falling in love with Anthony, Earl of Melfield! A new, exciting Regency romance by USA Today bestselling author Meredith Bond!

"This isn’t her Royal Highness,� the headmistress told the man and the woman who were staring at Lucinda with their mouths hanging open.

“But it could be.�

These words turn the life of Lucinda North upside down. Within hours, she agrees—against her better judgement—to impersonate the missing Princess Louisa of Aachen-Düren. Within a week, she meets the queen and the handsome, charming Lord Melfield. Within the month, she is living at Buckingham Palace, lying about her true identity not only to Queen Charlotte but to all of Regency society, while someone is trying to kill her. Within her lifetime, she will never regret a moment of it.

Anthony, Earl of Melfield would rather not waste his time helping a spoiled princess learn how to conduct herself. He would certainly rather not return to society after a heartbreak. And he most definitely would rather not have feelings for the princess, no matter how sweet, funny, and beautiful she is. Most of all, he would much rather not use all of his skills to save her life and figure out who wants her dead.

In this first book of this sweet, and adventurous Royals & Rebels series by Meredith Bond you'll find hidden identities, a princess on the run, and three lives at stake� despite this, these royals and rebels must learn to trust and open themselves to a lifetime of love.

All three books in the Royals & Rebels series are interconnected and should be read in the correct order for full enjoyment.

The Royals & Rebels Series
#1 In Lieu of a Princess
#2 Princess on the Run
#3 A Prince Among Spies

Christmas Intrigue]]> 284 Meredith Bond 3985361037 Allison 0 3.94 In Lieu of a Princess (Royals & Rebels, #1)
author: Meredith Bond
name: Allison
average rating: 3.94
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, own-ebook, ebook-freebie, historical-romance, first-in-series, regency, setting-1800s, setting-england, royals, romance-clean-sweet, cliffhanger, series-complete, own-unread, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Thousand Recipes for Revenge (Chefs of the Five Gods, #1)]]> 62094214
Adamantine “Ada� Garland has an empathic connection to food and wine, a magical perception of aromas, flavors, and ingredients. Invaluable property of the royal court, Ada was in service to the Five Gods and to the Gods-ordained rulers of Verdania—until she had enough of injustice and bloodshed and deserted, seeking to chart her own destiny. When mysterious assassins ferret her out after sixteen years in hiding, Ada, now a rogue Chef, and her beloved Grand-mère run for their lives, only to find themselves on a path toward an unexpected ally.

A foreign princess in a strange court, Solenn unknowingly shares more with Ada than an epicurean gift. They share blood. With her newfound magical perception, she becomes aware of a plot to kill her fiancé, the prince. It’s part of a ploy by adversarial forces in the rival country of Albion to sow conflict, and Solenn is set up to take the blame.

As Ada’s and Solenn’s paths converge, a mother and her long-lost daughter reunite toward a common goal, and against a shadowy enemy from Ada’s past who is out for revenge. But what sacrifices must be made? What hope is there when powerful Gods pick sides in a war simmering to eruption?]]> 406 Beth Cato 1662510292 Allison 0 3.88 2023 A Thousand Recipes for Revenge (Chefs of the Five Gods, #1)
author: Beth Cato
name: Allison
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: culinary, own-ebook, ebook-freebie, first-in-series, published-2020s, historical-fantasy, duology, cliffhanger, violent-brutal-gruesome, kindle-unlimited, to-read, series-complete, romance-little-to-none, family, political-intrigue, older-characters, author-previously-read, own-unread, priority
review:

]]> World Whisperer 36543902
As a fifteen-year-old outsider girl in the Worker village, Isika is destined for endless drudgery, serving her priest stepfather and worshiping the four goddesses of the Worker people. She doesn't fit in and she hates the goddesses, but her mother is dead, and her three remaining siblings need her to be good and keep them safe. She can't think of anything beyond surviving each day and trying to avoid her stepfather's wrath.

Until he decides to sacrifice her youngest brother to the goddesses. And Isika decides that enough is enough.

She sets out on a journey to save her brother, facing an unknown world outside the walls of the Worker village. In the new world, ancient gifts awaken within her as she finds more beauty and more trouble than she could have imagined. To save her brother, she will have to trust the magical creatures and mysterious new friends who have come to guide her.

What's more, as she learns to love her new place in the world, she will have to learn to control magic that could be the key to her destiny and the fate of everyone around her.

Perfect for fans of Madeleine L'Engle, the Chronicles of Narnia, and Robin McKinley. Buy your copy to begin the adventure today!]]> 346 Rachel Devenish Ford Allison 0 4.32 World Whisperer
author: Rachel Devenish Ford
name: Allison
average rating: 4.32
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: own-ebook, ebook-freebie, christian-fantasy, first-in-series, series-complete, christian-author, to-read, series-wait, own-unread
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Bard's Blade (The Sorcerer's Song, #1)]]> 45155575 Mariyah enjoys a simple life in Vylari, a land magically sealed off from the outside world, where fear and hatred are all but unknown. She helps her family make wine and spends time with her betrothed, Lem, a musician of rare talent. Their destiny has never been in question. Whatever life brings, they will face it together.

But destiny has a way of choosing its own path, and when a stranger crosses the wards into Vylari for the first time in centuries, the two are faced with a terrible prophecy. Beyond the borders, an ancient evil is returning, its age-old prison shattered. Not even the Thaumas, keepers of knowledge and wielders of magic from the outside world, know how to defeat it.

Venturing into the wider world means facing sorcerers and thieves, con-men and assassins, but the two will go as far as it takes to stop the rising darkness and save their home

]]> 426 Brian D. Anderson 1250214637 Allison 0 4.03 2020 The Bard's Blade (The Sorcerer's Song, #1)
author: Brian D. Anderson
name: Allison
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: first-in-series, artistic-characters, published-2020s, to-read, series-complete, own-ebook, religion, epic-fantasy, series-wait, own-unread
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Thirteenth House (Twelve Houses, #2)]]> 8712664 496 Sharon Shinn 1440684782 Allison 4 4.15 2006 The Thirteenth House (Twelve Houses, #2)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/21
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: political-intrigue, fantasy-romance, published-2000s, own-ebook, 2025-book-hoarder, 2025-series-progress, shifters, romance-closed-door, characters-in-disguise
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Vengeance of the Pirate Queen (Daughter of the Pirate King, #3)]]> 59656615 Pirates of the Caribbean meets The Mummy in Vengeance of the Pirate Queen, which follows fan-favorite Sorinda and is a must read for anyone who loves fierce heroines and swoon-worthy romance.

You can't be afraid of the dark when you're the monster lurking in the shadows.
As an assassin working for the pirate queen, Sorinda is surprised when Alosa's next task for her is not to kill a new target, but to captain a handpicked crew on a rescue mission. Unfortunately, her sailing master is Kearan. He may be the best helmsman the pirate queen has, but Sorinda finds him a real pain in the arse. Sadly, there are few places on a ship to hide from an attentive man.

As the crew of the Vengeance faces dangerous waters and deadly sea creatures, they accidentally awaken the King of the Undersea, a being who can control the dead. Their rescue mission quickly turns into a fight to save the world, but first, Sorinda must save herself from becoming an undead queen.]]> 336 Tricia Levenseller 1250864984 Allison 3 4.00 2023 Vengeance of the Pirate Queen (Daughter of the Pirate King, #3)
author: Tricia Levenseller
name: Allison
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: fantasy-romance, young-adult, assassins, pirates, maritime, at-library, published-2020s, series-companion-novels, zombies, romance-closed-door, violent-brutal-gruesome, 2025-series-progress
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Study of Magic (The Chronicles of Ixia, #2.5; The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures, #2)]]> 209609584 Frankly, I think death is the best cure for stupidity.

As Chief of Ixia’s Security, Valek’s work is never done. After rescuing Commander Ambrose with, Yelena, his heartmate’s, help and seeing her off to Sitia, Valek discovers the nefarious scheme to overthrow their country is far more complex and far reaching than anyone could have guessed.

Valek must discover who is continuing with Brazell and Mogkan’s conniving plans, all while dealing with a tense political situation. The Ixian generals are questioning his abilities to keep the Commander safe, and whispers of a possible coup are circulating.

Will Valek be able to survive a plot that seeks to sabotage all he and the Commander have worked for? Also, having opened his heart to love, will Yelena still wish to be with him when all is said and done?

A companion novel to Magic Study, The Study of Magic reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what hazards Valek encounters and survives before he and Yelena are reunited once more.]]> 340 Maria V. Snyder 1946381233 Allison 4 4.42 2024 The Study of Magic (The Chronicles of Ixia, #2.5; The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures, #2)
author: Maria V. Snyder
name: Allison
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/16
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: own-ebook, published-2020s, fantasy, 2025-book-hoarder, 2025-series-progress, retelling, series-companion-novels, romance-closed-door
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sanctuary for Seers (Stranje House, #5)]]> 62688391 Sanctuary for Seers, the long-awaited fifth novel in the Stranje House series, brings you to the exciting conclusion of this bestselling series!

In this alternate history, England is crumbling. The war on the continent is going badly. French troops have cornered Wellington in Northern Europe. And Lord Castlereagh’s men are engaged in a desperate hunt for the Prince Regent, who has been wounded and abducted by Napoleon and his ruthless leader of the Iron Crown, known as Ghost.

The young women at Stranje House know Seraphina Wyndham to be shy but quietly brilliant, extraordinarily observant, yet deeply caring. They think of her as an adoring little sister. But Sera hides some troubling secrets. She possesses gifts no one knows about, not even Miss Stranje—gifts far beyond their wildest expectations.

The one person who truly understands her is the one man they all fear the most. A man intent on destroying England. Can she save England? And herself from . . . Ghost?

Fans of genre-blending, romance, and action will love this Regency-era alternate history novel filled with extraordinary heroines, handsome young lords, and dastardly villains.

“Enticing from the first sentence." —New York Times Book Review

“Baldwin has a winning series here: her characters are intriguing and fully rendered.� - Booklist

"This alternative history series will appeal to fans of Gail Carriger's works and The Cecelia and Kate novels by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer." —School Library Journal on A School for Unusual Girls]]> 326 Kathleen Baldwin Allison 4 4.37 2023 Sanctuary for Seers (Stranje House, #5)
author: Kathleen Baldwin
name: Allison
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/13
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: setting-1800s, setting-england, napoleonic-era, historical-fantasy, end-of-series, published-2020s, at-library, 2025-series-progress, seers, romance-clean-sweet, physical-shelf-wishlist
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Murder in Murray Hill (Gaslight Mystery, #16)]]> 19410580 When facing injustice, the residents of nineteenth-century New York City’s tenements turn to midwife Sarah Brandt and Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy to protect their rights. Now, as the Edgar® and Agatha Award–nominated series continues, the two must track down a cruel criminal preying on the hopes and dreams of innocent women�

A Gaslight Mystery

Frank Malloy has never known any life other than that of a cop, but his newfound inheritance threatens his position within his department. While trying to keep both his relationship with Sarah and his fortune under wraps, he’s assigned to a new case—finding a missing young woman for her worried father, Henry Livingston.

It seems the girl had been responding to “lonely hearts� ads in the paper for months before she disappeared. Her father thinks that she’s eloped with a deceptive stranger, but Malloy fears the worst, knowing that the grifters who place such ads often do much more than simply abscond with their victims. But as Sarah and Malloy delve deeper into a twisted plot targeting the city’s single women, it’s their partnership—both professional and private—that winds up in the greatest peril�
]]> 306 Victoria Thompson 0698143027 Allison 0 4.29 2014 Murder in Murray Hill (Gaslight Mystery, #16)
author: Victoria Thompson
name: Allison
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-mystery, setting-america, setting-1900s, published-2010s, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[To Write a Wrong (The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, #2)]]> 56027311 364 Jen Turano 1493431455 Allison 0 4.57 2021 To Write a Wrong (The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, #2)
author: Jen Turano
name: Allison
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-romance, gilded-age, setting-america, published-2020s, christian-fiction, artistic-characters, romance-clean-sweet, at-library, setting-1800s, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Ladies of Ivy Cottage (Tales from Ivy Hill #2)]]> 35022291 New from the Top Author of Inspirational Regency Romance

Return to Ivy Hill in The Ladies of Ivy Cottage as friendships deepen, romances blossom, and mysteries unfold.

Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow. When the village women encourage her to open a subscription library with the many books she has inherited or acquired through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. A man who once broke her heart helps her search for clues, but will both find more than they bargained for?

Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.

Meanwhile, life has improved at the coaching inn and Jane Bell is ready to put grief behind her. Now if only the man she misses would return--but where is he?

As the women of Ivy Hill search for answers about the past and hope for the future, might they find love along the way?]]> 505 Julie Klassen 149341190X Allison 0 4.41 2017 The Ladies of Ivy Cottage (Tales from Ivy Hill #2)
author: Julie Klassen
name: Allison
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-fiction, christian-fiction, setting-1800s, setting-england, regency, published-2010s, christian-author, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read, kindle-unlimited, at-library, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Scandal Above Stairs (Kat Holloway Mysteries #2)]]> 36649034
As the thefts increase in frequency, Kat calls upon her friend Daniel McAdam, who has already set himself up in a pawnshop on the Strand as a seedy receiver of stolen goods. When a man is murdered in the shop, Kat must use all of her wits to see that the thieves are caught and justice is done.]]> 316 Jennifer Ashley 0399585540 Allison 0 4.39 2018 Scandal Above Stairs (Kat Holloway Mysteries #2)
author: Jennifer Ashley
name: Allison
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-mystery, setting-1800s, setting-england, victorian, culinary, at-library, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Drumindor (The Riyria Chronicles, #5)]]> 208141987 HE PLANNED TO OBLITERATE AN ENTIRE CITY. HE THOUGHT NO ONE COULD STAND IN HIS WAY. BUT HE HADN'T HEARD OF RIYRIA.

When a master-craftsmen dwarf is fired, he threatens retaliation. The rogues-for-hire known as Riyria are commissioned to find and stop him. Traveling to the paradise resort of Tur Del Fur, the two are granted a lavish allowance that, along with the easy job, promises to turn the trip into a vacation. Everything would have been perfect except that the disgruntled employee’s last name is Berling and the target of his wrath is the legendary towers of Drumindor.

It's been more than five years since the last adventure with Royce Melborn (a cynical ex-assassin) and Hadrian Blackwater (an idealistic ex-mercenary), a pair whose bonds of friendship are bound with blood. This is the 20th novel based in the world of Elan, the 5th in the Riyria Chronicle series, and the eleventh starring Royce and Hadrian tale.]]> 528 Michael J. Sullivan 194336351X Allison 0 4.37 2024 Drumindor (The Riyria Chronicles, #5)
author: Michael J. Sullivan
name: Allison
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: fantasy, not-at-library, published-2020s, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[My Lady Quicksilver (London Steampunk, #3)]]> 18486466
In order to infiltrate the Nighthawks and find their leader, Blue Blooded Sir Jasper Lynch, Rosalind will pose as their secretary. A dangerous mission, but Rosalind is also the elusive Mercury, a leader in the humanist movement.

But she doesn't count on Lynch being such a dangerously charismatic man, challenging her at every turn, forcing her to re-evaluate everything she knows about the enemy. He could be her most dangerous nemesis-or the ally she never dreamed existed.

A stunning, action-filled paranormal romance, Bec McMaster's London Steampunk novels will appeal to fans of Gail Carriger, Kristen Callihan's Darkest London series, and the Blud series by Delilah Dawson.

RITA finalist Bec McMaster's London Steampunk of Steel, Book 1 ? Honoria's last hope is the most dangerous man in London's underworld, and she may be his last hope as well Heart of Iron, Book 2 ? Will would do anything to protect Lena, including fighting his love for her, but seducing her may be the only way to save herMy Lady Quicksilver, Book 3 ? Rosalind risks her life, and her heart, to get close to the one man who could find and free her brother. But will he?Forged by Desire, Book 4 ? RITA finalist, When Perry fled her thrall contract and joined the Nighthawks, she thought she would be safe, but danger is stalking her againOf Silk and Steam, Book 5 ? Mina has sworn revenge for her father's death, but the man she plans to destroy could be her own undoing, or the salvation of all London

What readers are saying about My Lady "twists and turns, vampires, revenge, passion, suspense and romance"

"If you enjoy Steampunk, romance and paranormal romance than you are in for a real treat."

"absolutely stunning"

"Full of action and intrigue, this story is perfect!"

"humor and red hot romance"

What reviewers are saying about My Lady "Rich, dramatic, romantic, and dangerous..." - Publishers Weekly

"wildly imaginative, richly textured world building... the perfect choice for readers who like their historical romances sexy, action-packed, and just a tad different." - Booklist

"The blend of steampunk, paranormal, suspense and romance is so well crafted into a riveting story" - Delighted Reader

"a taste of paranormal, shifter, steampunk and romance all stewed in a recipe to be savored and not rushed through. " - Coffee Time Romance

"beautifully crafted and immerses the reader in a fantastic story." - Worlds of Words

What everyone is saying about Bec "a must read for paranormal fans and steampunk fans alike.]]> 448 Bec McMaster 1402270348 Allison 0 4.17 2013 My Lady Quicksilver (London Steampunk, #3)
author: Bec McMaster
name: Allison
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: steampunk, paranormal-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, adult-content, romance-explicit, vampires, published-2010s, victorian, rebels, maybe, sequels-maybe
review:

]]> Wildflower Hill 11778826
Beattie also found herself at a crossroads as a young woman, but she was pregnant and unwed. She eventually found success—but only after following an unconventional path that was often dangerous and heartbreaking. Beattie knew the lessons she learned in life would be important to Emma one day, and she wanted to make sure Emma’s heart remained open to love, no matter what life brought. She knew the magic of the Australian wilderness would show Emma the way.

Wildflower Hill is a compelling, atmospheric, and romantic novel about taking risks, starting again, and believing in yourself. It’s about finding out what you really want and discovering that the answer might be not at all what you’d expect.]]> 546 Kimberley Freeman 1451623518 Allison 0 4.25 2010 Wildflower Hill
author: Kimberley Freeman
name: Allison
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, historical-fiction, multiple-timelines, setting-1900s, setting-australia-oceania, setting-england, setting-2000s, published-2010s, at-library, romance-clean-sweet, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf, priority
review:

]]> Every Secret Thing 13634269
Kate Murray is deeply troubled. In front of her lies a dead man, a stranger who only minutes before had approached her wanting to tell her about a mystery, a long-forgotten murder. The crime was old, he’d told her, but still deserving of justice.

Soon Kate is caught up in a dangerous whirlwind of events that takes her back into her grandmother’s mysterious war-time past and across the Atlantic as she tries to retrace the dead man’s footsteps. Finding out the truth is not so simple, however, as only a few people are still alive who know the story…and Kate soon realises that her questions are putting their lives in danger. Stalked by an unknown and sinister enemy, she must use her tough journalistic instinct to find the answers from the past � before she has to say goodbye to her future.]]> 480 Emma Cole 0749011750 Allison 0 3.97 2006 Every Secret Thing
author: Emma Cole
name: Allison
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2006
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, romantic-suspense, published-2000s, at-library, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf, priority
review:

]]> Sword and Verse 25489887
So when she is plucked from her menial labor and selected to replace the last Tutor-in-training who was executed, Raisa knows that betraying any hint of her past could mean death.

Keeping her secret guarded is hard enough, but the romance that's been blossoming between her and Prince Mati isn't helping matters. Then Raisa is approached by the Resistance—an underground rebel army—to help liberate the city's slaves. She wants to free her people, but that would mean aiding a war against Mati.

As Raisa struggles with what to do, she discovers a secret that the Qilarites have been hiding for centuries—one that, if uncovered, could bring the kingdom to its knees.]]> 384 Kathy MacMillan 0062324632 Allison 0 3.00 2016 Sword and Verse
author: Kathy MacMillan
name: Allison
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: political-intrigue, slavery, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, published-2010s, to-read, at-library, fantasy-young-adult, series-wait, dust-the-shelf, priority
review:

]]> Long May She Reign 31082291
Freya was never meant to be queen. Twenty-third in line to the throne, she never dreamed of a life in the palace, and would much rather research in her laboratory than participate in the intrigues of the court. However, when an extravagant banquet turns deadly and the king and those closest to him are poisoned, Freya suddenly finds herself on the throne.

She may have escaped the massacre, but she is far from safe. The nobles don’t respect her, her councillors want to control her, and with the mystery of who killed the king still unsolved, she knows that a single mistake could cost her the kingdom—and her life.

Freya is determined to survive, and that means uncovering the murderers herself. Until then, she can’t trust anyone. Not her advisers. Not the king’s dashing and enigmatic illegitimate son. Not even her own father, who always wanted the best for her but also wanted more power for himself.

As Freya’s enemies close in and her loyalties are tested, she must decide if she is ready to rule and, if so, how far she is willing to go to keep the crown.]]> 432 Rhiannon Thomas 006241870X Allison 0 3.64 2017 Long May She Reign
author: Rhiannon Thomas
name: Allison
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, political-intrigue, scientists, published-2010s, at-library, fantasy-mystery, fantasy-young-adult, dust-the-shelf, priority
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue (Montague Siblings, #1)]]> 32319702 Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens AgendaÌýmeets the 1700s in this hilarious and swashbuckling stand-alone teen historical fiction novel.Ìý

A young bisexual British lord who embarks on an unforgettable Grand Tour of Europe with his best friend/secret crush stars. An 18th-century romantic adventure for the modern age written byÌýThis Monstrous ThingÌýauthor Mackenzi Lee.

Henry “Monty� Montague doesn’t care that his roguish passions are far from suitable for the gentleman he was born to be. But as Monty embarks on his grand tour of Europe, his quests for pleasure and vice are in danger of coming to an end. Not only does his father expect him to take over the family’s estate upon his return, but Monty is also nursing an impossible crush on his best friend and traveling companion, Percy.

So Monty vows to make this yearlong escapade one last hedonistic hurrah and flirt with Percy from Paris to Rome. But when one of Monty’s reckless decisions turns their trip abroad into a harrowing manhunt, it calls into question everything he knows, including his relationship with the boy he adores.

Witty, dazzling, and intriguing at every turn, The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue is an irresistible romp that explores the undeniably fine lines between friendship and love.]]> 528 Mackenzi Lee 0062382829 Allison 0 3.84 2017 The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue (Montague Siblings, #1)
author: Mackenzi Lee
name: Allison
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-fiction, young-adult, setting-1700s, setting-england, setting-europe, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, published-2010s, on-a-journey, series-complete, to-read, at-library, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Name Unknown (Shadows Over England #1)]]> 34117566 Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense

Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?

Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.

But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?]]> 432 Roseanna M. White 1441231218 Allison 0 4.49 2017 A Name Unknown (Shadows Over England #1)
author: Roseanna M. White
name: Allison
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-romance, setting-1900s, setting-england, christian-fiction, romance, published-2010s, thieves, first-in-series, series-companion-novels, edwardian, to-read, christian-author, at-library, series-wait, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Silver Borne (Mercy Thompson, #5)]]> 7891248 351 Patricia Briggs 1101186119 Allison 0 4.44 2010 Silver Borne (Mercy Thompson, #5)
author: Patricia Briggs
name: Allison
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: urban-fantasy, fairie-fae, shifters, setting-america, setting-2000s, published-2010s, dust-the-shelf, priority, sequels-next, to-read, author-previously-read
review:

]]> The Last Namsara (Iskari, #1) 34701849
These are the legends that Asha, daughter of the king of Firgaard, has grown up learning in hushed whispers, drawn to the forbidden figures of the past. But it isn’t until she becomes the fiercest, most feared dragon slayer in the land that she takes on the role of the next Iskari—a lonely destiny that leaves her feeling more like a weapon than a girl.

Asha conquers each dragon and brings its head to the king, but no kill can free her from the shackles that await at home: her betrothal to the cruel commandant, a man who holds the truth about her nature in his palm. When she’s offered the chance to gain her freedom in exchange for the life of the most powerful dragon in Firgaard, she finds that there may be more truth to the ancient stories than she ever could have expected. With the help of a secret friend—a slave boy from her betrothed’s household—Asha must shed the layers of her Iskari bondage and open her heart to love, light, and a truth that has been kept from her.]]> 432 Kristen Ciccarelli 0062568000 Allison 0 4.15 2017 The Last Namsara (Iskari, #1)
author: Kristen Ciccarelli
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: first-in-series, dragons, series-companion-novels, published-2010s, series-complete, to-read, at-library, fantasy-young-adult, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Tethered Mage (Swords and Fire, #1)]]> 34834927 Librarian note: older cover of B06XKQ9KB5.

CONTROL THE MAGIC, CONTROL THE WORLD

In the Raverran Empire, magic is scarce and those born with power are strictly controlled -- taken as children and conscripted into the Falcon Army. Zaira has lived her life on the streets to avoid this fate, hiding her mage-mark and thieving to survive. But hers is a rare and dangerous magic, one that threatens the entire empire.

Lady Amalia Cornaro was never meant to be a Falconer. Heiress and scholar, she was born into a treacherous world of political machinations.

But fate has bound the heir and the mage. And as war looms on the horizon, a single spark could turn their city into a pyre.

The Tethered Mage is the first novel in a spellbinding new fantasy series.]]> 480 Melissa Caruso Allison 0 4.12 2017 The Tethered Mage (Swords and Fire, #1)
author: Melissa Caruso
name: Allison
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: fantasy, first-in-series, witches-wizards-mages, political-intrigue, thieves, published-2010s, series-complete, to-read, at-library, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Harp of Kings (Warrior Bards, #1)]]> 43316755 A young woman is both a bard--and a warrior--in this thrilling historical fantasy from the author of the Sevenwaters novels.

Eighteen-year-old Liobhan is a powerful singer and an expert whistle player. Her brother has a voice to melt the hardest heart, and a rare talent on the harp. But Liobhan's burning ambition is to join the elite warrior band on Swan Island. She and her brother train there to compete for places, and find themselves joining a mission while still candidates. Their unusual blend of skills makes them ideal for this particular job, which requires going undercover as traveling minstrels. For Swan Island trains both warriors and spies.

Their mission: to find and retrieve a precious harp, an ancient symbol of kingship, which has gone mysteriously missing. If the instrument is not played at the upcoming coronation, the candidate will not be accepted and the people could revolt. Faced with plotting courtiers and tight-lipped druids, an insightful storyteller, and a boorish Crown Prince, Liobhan soon realizes an Otherworld power may be meddling in the affairs of the kingdom. When ambition clashes with conscience, Liobhan must make a bold decision and is faced with a heartbreaking choice. . . .]]> 463 Juliet Marillier 045149279X Allison 0 4.06 2019 The Harp of Kings (Warrior Bards, #1)
author: Juliet Marillier
name: Allison
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: first-in-series, historical-fantasy, artistic-characters, published-2010s, series-complete, to-read, setting-ireland, mom-liked, at-library, series-wait, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Even the Darkest Stars (Even the Darkest Stars, #1)]]> 26958226
But everything changes when the mysterious and eccentric River Shara, the greatest explorer ever known, arrives in her village and demands to hire Kamzin—not her older sister, Lusha, as everyone had expected—for his next expedition. This is Kamzin’s chance to prove herself—even though River’s mission to retrieve a rare talisman for the emperor means climbing Raksha, the tallest and deadliest mountain in the Aryas. Then, Lusha sets off on her own mission to Raksha with a rival explorer, and Kamzin must decide what’s most important to her: protecting her sister from the countless perils of the climb or beating her to the summit.

The challenges of climbing Raksha are unlike anything Kamzin expected—or prepared for—with avalanches, ice chasms, ghosts, and other dangers at every turn. And as dark secrets are revealed, Kamzin must unravel the truth about their mission and her companions—while surviving the deadliest climb she has ever faced.]]> 437 Heather Fawcett 0062463403 Allison 0 3.85 2017 Even the Darkest Stars (Even the Darkest Stars, #1)
author: Heather Fawcett
name: Allison
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: survival, first-in-series, published-2010s, series-complete, duology, to-read, at-library, fantasy-young-adult, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> Mr. Malcolm's List 6663493 214 Suzanne Allain Allison 0 3.81 2009 Mr. Malcolm's List
author: Suzanne Allain
name: Allison
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: to-read, romance, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, romance-clean-sweet, published-2000s, regency, at-library, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Blackthorn Key (The Blackthorn Key, #1)]]> 25107140 Following a series of murders, an apothecary’s apprentice must solve puzzles and decipher codes in pursuit of a secret that could destroy the world in this “spectacular debut� (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).

“Tell no one what I’ve given you.�

Until he got that cryptic warning, Christopher Rowe was happy, learning how to solve complex codes and puzzles and creating powerful medicines, potions, and weapons as an apprentice to Master Benedict Blackthorn—with maybe an explosion or two along the way.

But when a mysterious cult begins to prey on London’s apothecaries, the trail of murders grows closer and closer to Blackthorn’s shop. With time running out, Christopher must use every skill he’s learned to discover the key to a terrible secret with the power to tear the world apart.

In his stunning debut novel, Kevin Sands brings readers on a heart-stopping adventure rich with suspense, mystery, and unforgettable characters.]]> 384 Kevin Sands 1481446533 Allison 0 4.28 2015 The Blackthorn Key (The Blackthorn Key, #1)
author: Kevin Sands
name: Allison
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-mystery, middle-grade, setting-1400s-1600s, first-in-series, setting-england, published-2010s, apprentices, series-episodic, to-read, at-library, fantasy-mystery, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> A Heart Revealed 25051283 Amber Marie Sterlington, the Rage of the Season in Regency-era London, has her pick of men, and she knows what she wants most in a husband: a title and a fortune. Why would she ever marry for something as fickle as love? And why would she ever look twice at Thomas Richards, a third son of a country lord?

But when Amber's social standing is threatened, the character of her future husband becomes far more important than his position. After a public humiliation, she find herself exiled to Yorkshire. alone except for her maid, Amber is faced with a future she never expected in a circumstance far below what she has known all her life. Humbled and lonely, Amber begins to wonder if isolation is for the best. Who could ever love her now?

]]> 298 Josi S. Kilpack 1629732656 Allison 0 3.97 2015 A Heart Revealed
author: Josi S. Kilpack
name: Allison
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: romance, romance-clean-sweet, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, to-read, published-2010s, regency, at-library, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Song of the Current (Song of the Current #1)]]> 34886639
So when pirates burn ships and her father is arrested, Caro volunteers to transport mysterious cargo in exchange for his release. Secretly, Caro hopes that by piloting her own wherry, the river god will finally speak her name.

But when the cargo becomes more than Caro expected, she finds herself caught in a web of politics and lies. With much more than her father's life at stake, Caro must choose between the future she knows, and the one she could have never imagined.]]> 384 Sarah Tolcser 1681192985 Allison 0 4.00 2017 Song of the Current (Song of the Current #1)
author: Sarah Tolcser
name: Allison
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: pirates, maritime, first-in-series, political-intrigue, published-2010s, series-complete, duology, to-read, at-library, fantasy-young-adult, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Impostor Queen (The Impostor Queen, #1)]]> 27221566 The elders chose Elli to be queen, but they chose wrong in this beautifully crafted novel that “fans of Rae Carson’s books and Victoria Areyard’s Red Queen will find much to love in� (VOYA).Sixteen-year-old Elli was a small child when the Elders of Kupari chose her to succeed the Valtia, the queen who wields infinitely powerful ice and fire magic. Since then, Elli has lived in the temple, surrounded by luxury and tutored by priests, as she prepares for the day when the Valtia perishes and the magic finds a new home in her. Elli is destined to be the most powerful Valtia to ever rule. But when the queen dies defending the kingdom from invading warriors, the magic doesn’t enter Elli. It’s nowhere to be found. Disgraced, Elli flees to the outlands, the home of banished criminals—some who would love to see the temple burn with all its priests inside. As she finds her footing in this new world, Elli uncovers devastating new information about the Kupari magic, those who wield it, and the prophecy that foretold her destiny. Torn between the love she has for her people and her growing loyalty to the banished, Elli struggles to understand the true role she was meant to play. But as war looms, she must align with the right side—before the kingdom and its magic are completely destroyed.]]> 432 Sarah Fine 1481441922 Allison 0 3.67 2016 The Impostor Queen (The Impostor Queen, #1)
author: Sarah Fine
name: Allison
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: first-in-series, series-complete, published-2010s, to-read, at-library, fantasy-young-adult, series-wait, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Magic & Manners (An Austen Chronicle)]]> 29464610
For Elsabeth Dover and her sisters, that truth means living in a perpetual state of caution, never using their sorcerous gifts in public. Elsabeth chafes under the stricture, but not enough to risk the possibility of good marriages for her sisters...until she meets handsome, arrogant Fitzgerald Archer.

Elsabeth, attracted to Archer's wit and offended by his manner, strives to keep her youngest, impetuous sister's use of magic in check so that their eldest sister, Rosamund, might find happiness with Archer's wealthy friend Mr Webber. But when Elsa fails to keep young Leopoldina in line, Archer's disapproval of the family taint means an abrupt end to Rosamund's hopes, and leads to a terrible discovery about the price of magic....]]> 406 C.E. Murphy 1613171056 Allison 0 4.14 2016 Magic & Manners (An Austen Chronicle)
author: C.E. Murphy
name: Allison
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: fantasy-of-manners, setting-1800s, setting-england, retelling, published-2010s, regency, to-read, at-library, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> <![CDATA[All Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries, #1)]]> 32758901 "As a heartless killing machine, I was a complete failure."

In a corporate-dominated space-faring future, planetary missions must be approved and supplied by the Company. For their own safety, exploratory teams are accompanied by Company-supplied security androids. But in a society where contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder, safety isn’t a primary concern.

On a distant planet, a team of scientists is conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid--a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module and refers to itself (though never out loud) as “Murderbot.� Scornful of humans, Murderbot wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is, but when a neighboring mission goes dark, it's up to the scientists and Murderbot to get to the truth.]]> 144 Martha Wells Allison 0 4.11 2017 All Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries, #1)
author: Martha Wells
name: Allison
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: science-fiction, first-in-series, artificial-intelligence, award-winner, published-2010s, novella-short-story, series-end-tbd, recs-for-g, to-read, at-library, series-wait, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf
review:

]]> The Forbidden Orchid 28584486 416 Sharon Biggs Waller 0698187970 Allison 0 3.85 2016 The Forbidden Orchid
author: Sharon Biggs Waller
name: Allison
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-fiction, young-adult, setting-1800s, setting-england, setting-asia, on-a-journey, victorian, at-library, maybe
review:

]]> The Lost History of Dreams 41589971 A post-mortem photographer unearths dark secrets from the past that may hold the key to his future in this “sensual, twisting gothic tale…in the tradition of A.S. Byatt’s Possession, Diane Setterfield’s The Thirteenth Tale, and Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights� (BookPage).All love stories are ghost stories in disguise. “This one happily succeeds at both� (Kirkus Reviews, starred review). When famed Byronesque poet Hugh de Bonne is discovered dead in his bath one morning, his cousin Robert Highstead, a post-mortem photographer, is charged with a simple transport Hugh’s remains for burial in a chapel. This chapel, a stained-glass folly set on the moors, was built by de Bonne sixteen years earlier to house the remains of his beloved wife and muse, Ada. Since then, the chapel has been locked and abandoned, a pilgrimage site for the rabid fans of de Bonne’s last book, The Lost History of Dreams. However, Ada’s grief-stricken niece refuses to open the glass chapel for Robert unless he agrees to her before he can lay Hugh to rest, Robert must record Isabelle’s story of Ada and Hugh’s ill-fated marriage over the course of five nights. As the mystery of Ada and Hugh’s relationship unfolds, so too does the secret behind Robert’s own marriage—including that of his fragile wife, Sida, who has not been the same since a tragic accident three years earlier and the origins of his morbid profession that has him seeing things he shouldn’t...things from beyond the grave. Blurring the line between the past and the present, truth and fiction, and ultimately, life and death, The Lost History of Dreams is “a surrealist, haunting tale of suspense where every prediction turns out to be merely a step toward a bigger reveal� (Booklist).]]> 321 Kris Waldherr 1982101032 Allison 0 3.69 2019 The Lost History of Dreams
author: Kris Waldherr
name: Allison
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: gothic, historical-fiction, setting-1800s, mystery, published-2010s, on-the-moors-marshes, setting-england, at-library, maybe
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Bride’s Guide to Marriage and Murder (Countess of Harleigh Mystery #5)]]> 59201082

On the eve of her marriage to George Hazelton, Frances has a great deal more on her mind than flowers and seating arrangements. The Connors and the Doyles, two families of American robber barons, have taken up residence in London, and their bitter rivalry is spilling over into the highest social circles. At the request of her brother, Alonzo, who is quite taken with Miss Madeline Connor, Frances has invited the Connor family to her wedding. Meanwhile, Frances’s mother has invited Mr. Doyle, and Frances fears the wedding may end up being newspaper-worthy for all the wrong reasons.

On the day itself, Frances is relieved to note that Madeline’s father is not among the guests assembled at the church. The reason for his absence, however, turns out to be most unfortunate: Mr. Connor is found murdered in his home. More shocking still, Alonzo is caught at the scene, holding the murder weapon.

Powerful and ruthless, Connor appears to have amassed a wealth of enemies alongside his fortune. Frances and George agree to put their wedding trip on hold to try and clear Alonzo’s name. But there are secrets to sift through, not just in the Doyle and Connor families, but also in their own. And with a killer determined to evade discovery at any cost—even if it means taking another life—Frances’s first days as a newlywed will be perilous indeed . . .]]> 304 Dianne Freeman 1496731670 Allison 0 4.29 2022 A Bride’s Guide to Marriage and Murder (Countess of Harleigh Mystery #5)
author: Dianne Freeman
name: Allison
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-mystery, setting-1800s, victorian, setting-england, published-2020s, kindle-unlimited, at-library, maybe, sequels-maybe
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Kane and Abel (Kane and Abel, #1)]]> 8702790 596 Jeffrey Archer Allison 0 4.52 1979 Kane and Abel (Kane and Abel, #1)
author: Jeffrey Archer
name: Allison
average rating: 4.52
book published: 1979
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-fiction, first-in-series, series-complete, setting-1900s, family-saga, family, published-1970s, maybe
review:

]]> A Dangerous Fortune 8592132 Ìý
From the exclusive men’s clubs and brothels that cater to every dark desire of London’s upper class to the dazzling ballrooms and mahogany-paneled suites of the manipulators of the world’s wealth, one family is splintered by a shared legacy. But greed, fed by the shocking truth of a boy’s death, must be stopped, or the dreams of a nation will die.
Ìý
Praise for A Dangerous Fortune
Ìý
“A terrific page-turner.��Los Angeles Times
Ìý
“Political and amorous intrigues, cold-blooded murder, and financial crises . . . old-fashioned entertainment.��San Francisco Chronicle
Ìý
“Breathlessly plotted . . . relentlessly suspenseful.��The New York Times
Ìý
“Gripping, complex plot . . . sexual intrigue . . . fascinating characters . . . You won’t be able to put down this exciting page-turner.��Lexington Herald-Leader


From the Paperback edition.]]> 576 Ken Follett 0307756750 Allison 0 3.78 1993 A Dangerous Fortune
author: Ken Follett
name: Allison
average rating: 3.78
book published: 1993
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: historical-fiction, setting-1800s, setting-england, published-1990s, victorian, maybe
review:

]]> Black Rabbit Hall 30104966 For fans of Kate Morton and Sarah Waters, here’s a magnetic debut novel of wrenching family secrets, forbidden love, and heartbreaking loss housed within the grand gothic manor of Black Rabbit Hall.

Ghosts are everywhere, not just the ghost of Momma in the woods, but ghosts of us too, what we used to be like in those long summers�

Amber Alton knows that the hours pass differently at Black Rabbit Hall, her London family’s country estate, where no two clocks read the same. Summers there are perfect, timeless. Not much ever happens. Until, of course, it does.

More than three decades later, Lorna is determined to be married within the grand, ivy-covered walls of Pencraw Hall, known as Black Rabbit Hall among the locals. But as she’s drawn deeper into the overgrown grounds, half-buried memories of her mother begin to surface and Lorna soon finds herself ensnared within the manor’s labyrinthine history, overcome with an insatiable need for answers about her own past and that of the once-happy family whose memory still haunts the estate.

Stunning and atmospheric, this debut novel is a thrilling spiral into the hearts of two women separated by decades but inescapably linked by the dark and tangled secrets of Black Rabbit Hall.]]> 384 Eve Chase 0698191455 Allison 0 4.00 2015 Black Rabbit Hall
author: Eve Chase
name: Allison
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: gothic, multiple-timelines, historical-fiction, setting-england, setting-1900s, published-2010s, at-library, tried-not-for-me, 2025-dust-the-shelf, bleak-or-melancholy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dark Moon Defender (Twelve Houses, #3)]]> 8712663 482 Sharon Shinn 1440619328 Allison 0 4.32 2006 Dark Moon Defender (Twelve Houses, #3)
author: Sharon Shinn
name: Allison
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2006
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read, sequels-next, priority, fantasy-romance, published-2000s, religion, not-at-library
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Study of Fire (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #3)]]> 220284524 “What happens if he returns to our world?�
“It will burn.�

There's just no rest for Valek, Ixia’s Chief of Security. Challenges are constant and new problems arrive daily, including a request to help Castletown’s watch solve the mystery of a string of nighttime disturbances, and keeping a close eye on the Commander’s food taster as she schemes her way back into business. As if that isn't enough, the Commander’s life is threatened.

Is the assassination attempt on the Commander a declaration of war by the Sitian Council, or is it a ruse by an unknown party to incite a war between Ixia and Sitia? Valek is sent to Sitia to discover the answer and deal with the threat.

Unfortunately, the problem turns out to be much bigger than even the council and the master magicians can handle. An unsanctioned clan with powerful warpers is plotting to take over both countries. As the danger heats up, Valek and Yelena must reunite and stop the group before they can set their entire world on fire.

A companion novel to Fire Study, The Study of Fire reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what problems Valek tackles in Ixia before he joins Yelena in fighting against a unstoppable enemy.
]]> 350 Maria V. Snyder 1946381276 Allison 0 4.51 2024 The Study of Fire (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #3)
author: Maria V. Snyder
name: Allison
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: to-read, sequels-next, end-of-series, fantasy, retelling, published-2020s, priority, series-companion-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Study of Poisons (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures Book 1)]]> 108604955 Fierce, determined, dangerous. No wonder her soul called to his.

As Chief of Security of Ixia, Valek has spent the last fifteen years keeping Commander Ambrose and his citizens safe. With his complex network of spies, informers, and soldiers, it’s his job to hunt down and capture criminals, including the intriguing Yelena.

Sensing there is more to the story of why she killed a general’s son, Valek arranges for Yelena to become the Commander’s new food taster, training her in the delicate art of detecting poisons. As mysteries and a devious plot to harm the Commander unravel, Yelena’s presence becomes crucial. Will her intelligence, stubbornness, and survivor instincts be a help to Valek’s investigation, or a hinderance?

A companion novel to Poison Study, The Study of Poisons reveals Valek’s side of the story. Return to the world of Ixia and discover just how the lovely Yelena got Valek’s cold heart pumping!]]> 385 Maria V. Snyder 1946381179 Allison 4 4.34 2023 The Study of Poisons (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures Book 1)
author: Maria V. Snyder
name: Allison
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/05
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: series-companion-novels, fantasy, assassins, spies, indie-self-pub, own-ebook, published-2020s, book-hoarder-2024, retelling, first-in-series
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Lady of Conscience (Somerset Stories, #5)]]> 178805478 A Victorian bluestocking with a passion for lost causes attracts the unwilling attention of a frost-hearted viscount during her tumultuous debut season in Bath in USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews’s fifth book in her acclaimed Somerset Stories series.

West Country beauty Hannah Heywood may be quiet with fashionable strangers, but when it comes to animals in need, she has no trouble finding her voice. Newly arrived in Bath for her very first season, all she desires is to find one like-minded gentleman. A man of warmth and compassion, as sensitive to animals as he is to people. But if such a man exists, he dare not approach her. Not with the tall, blond, and menacing Viscount St. Clare standing in the way.

James Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has often been described as a sentient block of ice. A man so cold and dispassionate, he would never suit a young lady of Hannah’s disposition. And she would certainly never suit him. Focused on repairing his family’s infamous reputation, James requires a diamond of the first water. The daughter of a duke or a marquess, at least, not a simple country girl with a passion for four-legged creatures.

And yet, there’s something about conscience-driven young Hannah that draws James, first to Bath, and then into one increasingly hare-brained scheme after another. She confounds him at every turn, subverting his expectations and threatening to do what no lady has succeeded in doing before—thawing his ice-cold heart.]]> 248 Mimi Matthews 173608027X Allison 0 4.17 2024 A Lady of Conscience (Somerset Stories, #5)
author: Mimi Matthews
name: Allison
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: to-read, own-ebook, historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england
review:

]]> Salt & Broom 123443274
"Salt and broom, make this room
Safe and tight, against the night."

Trunks packed with potions and cures, Jane Aire sets out on a crisp, clear morning in October to face the greatest challenge of her sheltered girls�-school existence. A shadow lies over Thornfield Hall and its reclusive master, Edward Rochester. And he’s hired her only as a last resort. Jane stumbles again and again as she tries to establish a rapport with her prickly new employer, but he becomes the least of her worries as a mysterious force seems to work against her. The threats mount around both Jane and Rochester—who’s becoming more intriguing and appealing to her by the day. Jane begins to fear her herb healing and protective charms may not be enough to save the man she’s growing to love from a threat darker and more dangerous than either of them imagined.]]> 282 Sharon Lynn Fisher 1662515685 Allison 3 4.12 2023 Salt & Broom
author: Sharon Lynn Fisher
name: Allison
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/12
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves: own-ebook, retelling, historical-fantasy, witches-wizards-mages, published-2020s, ebook-freebie, 2025-book-hoarder
review:

]]> The Stolen Bride 10322280 182 Jo Beverley 1101429658 Allison 0 4.03 1990 The Stolen Bride
author: Jo Beverley
name: Allison
average rating: 4.03
book published: 1990
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves: to-read, sequels-next, published-1990s, romantic-suspense, historical-romance, regency, setting-1800s, setting-england, gothic
review:

]]> The Stanforth Secrets 10779044
Back from the war, Justin Delamere hopes he can finally woo Chloe, until he suspects her guilty of treason-and murder. Can he trust the woman he's always desired, and can Chloe surrender her most private secrets to the man who controls her freedom and now her heart?]]> 338 Jo Beverley 110118485X Allison 4 4.15 1989 The Stanforth Secrets
author: Jo Beverley
name: Allison
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1989
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/09
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves: historical-romance, setting-1800s, setting-england, by-the-sea, published-1980s, regency, at-library, spies, 2025-dust-the-shelf, romance-closed-door, romantic-suspense, mom-try
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dawnshard (The Stormlight Archive, #3.5)]]> 54563048
When a ghost ship is discovered, its crew presumed dead after trying to reach the storm-shrouded island Akina, Navani Kholin must send an expedition to make sure the island hasn't fallen into enemy hands. Knights Radiant who fly too near find their Stormlight suddenly drained, so the voyage must be by sea.

Shipowner Rysn Ftori lost the use of her legs but gained the companionship of Chiri-Chiri, a Stormlight-ingesting winged larkin, a species once thought extinct. Now Rysn's pet is ill, and any hope for Chiri-Chiri’s recovery can be found only at the ancestral home of the larkin: Akinah. With the help of Lopen, the formerly one-armed Windrunner, Rysn must accept Navani's quest and sail into the perilous storm from which no one has returned alive. If the crew cannot uncover the secrets of the hidden island city before the wrath of its ancient guardians falls upon them, the fate of Roshar and the entire Cosmere hangs in the balance.]]> 158 Brandon Sanderson Allison 3 4.32 2020 Dawnshard (The Stormlight Archive, #3.5)
author: Brandon Sanderson
name: Allison
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/05
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves: epic-fantasy, published-2020s, novella-short-story, 2025-series-progress, maritime, disability
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Study in Scarlet Women (Lady Sherlock, #1)]]> 29432893 Ìý
With her inquisitive mind, Charlotte Holmes has never felt comfortable with the demureness expected of the fairer sex in upper class society. But even she never thought that she would become a social pariah, an outcast fending for herself on the mean streets of London.
Ìý
When the city is struck by a trio of unexpected deaths and suspicion falls on her sister and her father, Charlotte is desperate to find the true culprits and clear the family name. She’ll have help from friends new and old—a kind-hearted widow, a police inspector, and a man who has long loved her.

But in the end, it will be up to Charlotte, under the assumed name Sherlock Holmes, to challenge society’s expectations and match wits against an unseen mastermind.

An NPR Best Book of 2016]]> 336 Sherry Thomas 069819635X Allison 0 4.14 2016 A Study in Scarlet Women (Lady Sherlock, #1)
author: Sherry Thomas
name: Allison
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/04
shelves: historical-mystery, retelling, setting-1800s, setting-england, first-in-series, sherlockian, published-2010s, victorian, to-read, series-episodic, at-library, author-previously-read, dust-the-shelf, series-wait
review:

]]>