Friends who write good books are a treasure. The Ragged Blade by Christopher Ruz follows the adventure of Richard and his daughter across a desert while they run away from Richard’s ex, the Magician. This book hit all my Berserk buttons and made for a captivating read. On his release date (June 4th), Christopher took some time to answer questions around writing relationships, writing dual timeliness, and what kind of bad deadline not to set.
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When I found out there was a dark YA fantasy partially inspired by Poland, I knew I had to get on that hype train asap. Thank you Wednesday Books for an ARC of Wicked Saints, Emily A. Duncan’s debut about blood magic, religion, pious girls, alcoholic princes, and monster boys. Dark and gothic in aesthetic, this book is not for the faint of heart and I loved so much about the conflict and dynamics among our three protagonists, Nadya, Serefin, and Malachiasz. Emily took time to answer some questions about Nadya’s holy relationships and books to read once the book hangover wears off. Continue reading
Do you like fantasy? Are you looking for some mystery and horror? Look no further than The Perfect Assassin by K.A. Doore. This delightful murder book is set in a city protected by pylons from treacherous sand dunes, featuring several levels of political intrigue and a wonderfully inclusive cast of characters. In this interview, Kai shares her favorite pieces of world-building and her journey towards giving us the gift of Amastan and Ghadid.
Mike and I had been talking book things, publishing life, and more for a few months when he graciously provided me an ARC of Here and Now and Then (2019). A time travel story with a literary edge, we follow the story of Kin and his quest to save his two families in two timelines. Heartfelt and emotional, this book has enough nods to Doctor Who and Star Trek to make you smile between crying sessions.
In this interview, Mike talks about how he developed his debut, his favorite episodes of his favorite series, and a piece of advice which goes beyond writing and publishing.
I received an eARC of The Raging Ones (2018) from Wednesday Books. Because life got in the way, I haven’t finished it yet, but so far, I am enjoying this one. The Ritchie twins tell the story of a frozen planet where everyone who lives knows when they’ll day. Three teens have avoided this death day and are trying to get on a ticket to a Distant Star to escape the consequences. I really like these teens’ spiritual bond and dynamic. Read on below for an interview with Krista and Becca about how they brought The Raging Ones to the page.
I received an eARC of Song of Blood & Stone (2018) from St, Martin’s Press and this swoony historical fantasy is a treat. The first in the Earthsinger Chronicles, we follow Jack and Jasminda as they race against magic, two powerful rulers, and their roles in society to save the world from war and an ancient evil. I really enjoyed the romance between the two main characters but also loved the fully-realized world and the very real tension between Lagrimar and Elsira. Read more for an interview with Leslye Penelope about bringing the Earthsinger Chronicles to life and some of her favorite reads and sources of inspiration.
I had the pleasure of reading an eARC of Between the Blade and the Heart (2018) by Amanda Hocking. It’s an urban fantasy about Valkyries whose purpose is to send immortals back to the underworld. There are secrets, tension, and really cool fight scenes galore. I especially loved how differently Malin approaches her relationship with Quinn and her relationship with Asher. Her relationship with her mother is particularly compelling.
As part of the blog tour, Amanda answered some questions about the craft and inspiration for this Scandinavian-inspired urban fantasy. The book comes out January 2nd.
