Blog Tour [Review]: The Many Fortunes of Maya

Title: The Many Fortunes of Maya
Author: Nicole D. Collier
Publisher: Versify
Publication Date: January 24, 2023
Genres: Middle Grade Contemporary

Book Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository| Indigo | IndieBound

Thank you TBR 7 Beyond tours and Versify Books for the review copy and the opportunity to be on this blog tour!

Rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis

In this lyrical novel that will appeal to fans of Meg Medina, Maya turns to her trusty “wheel of fortunes” for guidance on the toughest questions–like why her best friend suddenly feels far away, or when her Daddy will move back home. But can Maya find the courage to write her own fortune?

Maya J. Jenkins is bursting with questions:

Will she get the MVP award at this year’s soccer banquet?Who will win the big grill off between Daddy and Uncle J?When will she pass the swim test and get a green bracelet?For answers and a dose of good luck, 12-year-old Maya turns to her Wheel of Fortunes, a cardboard circle covered with the small slips of wisdom she’s collected from fortune cookies.

But can the fortunes answer her deep-down questions? The ones she’s too scared to ask out loud? Like, where did Mama’s smile go, the real one that lit up everything around her? When will Daddy move back home? And most of all, does she have enough courage to truly listen to the voice in her heart?

Review

The Many Fortunes of Maya is a good coming of age story about Maya/MJ, a middle schooler who envisions the perfect summer but faces a different reality. This story focused on friendship. family and self-discovery.

Maya vision’s of a perfect summer means winning the MVP award, going to an awesome soccer summer camp and her parents getting along. When Maya’s friends gets MVP and Maya’s parents start a trial separation, Maya has to figure out who and what she wants to be. She loves her flute and wants to play it more, can she do that?  Is soccer the thing she wants to mainly focus on, or can she take a break without letting her dad down? Maya goes on a journey of really discovering herself and wants she wants to focus on.  Along this journey she has her parents a, uncle and to support her.

I really enjoyed how the author was intentional in developing each character well. Whether a main or supporting character, each one felt crucial to the story. Along with being developed, each character is likable in their own right which makes the overall plot a very pleasant read. It is a good middle grade read with a great message.

About the Author

Nicole D. Collier, Ph.D., was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She has spent the past two decades in education. First as a fourth grade teacher, then teacher coach, and now as a partner at Personality Matters, Inc., an executive training, coaching and consulting firm.

Nicole writes for all ages, but her first love is middle grade contemporary fiction. Young people are trying to discern who they are vs. who they want to be, and how to bridge the gap between the two. Nicole’s stories are in that gap. In particular, she writes about the interior lives of Black girls as they seek their authentic selves.

A self-proclaimed ever-victorious woman, Nicole has been known to run, dance, and turn cartwheels on sunny days.  The Georgia peach has recently relocated to Tampa Bay, Florida.

Her forthcoming novel, The Many Fortunes of Maya (HarperCollins/Versify, Jan ’23) has earned two starred reviews (Kirkus, Publishers Weekly) and is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.

Author Links: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Tour Schedule

Direct Link: https://tbrandbeyondtours.com/2023/01/16/tour-schedule-the-many-fortunes-of-maya-by-nicole-d-collier/

Blog Tour [Review]: Mysteries of Thorn Manor

Follow the Tour:

Title: Mysteries of Thorn Manor
Author: Margaret Rogerson
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication Date: January 17, 2023
Genres: Young Adult Fantasy

Where to buy: AMAZON

Thank you Turn the Page tours and Simon & Schuster for the review copyand the opportunity to be on this blog tour!

Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis

Elisabeth Scrivener is finally settling into her new life with sorcerer Nathaniel Thorn. Now that their demon companion Silas has returned, so has scrutiny from nosy reporters hungry for gossip about the city’s most powerful sorcerer and the librarian who stole his heart. But something strange is afoot at Thorn Manor: the estate’s wards, which are meant to keep their home safe, are acting up and forcibly trapping the Manor’’ occupants inside. Surely it must be a coincidence that this happened just as Nathaniel and Elisabeth started getting closer to one another…

With no access to the outside world, Elisabeth, Nathaniel, and Silas—along with their new maid Mercy—will have to work together to discover the source of the magic behind the malfunctioning wards before they’re due to host the city’s Midwinter Ball. Not an easy task when the house is filled with unexpected secrets, and all Elisabeth can think about is kissing Nathaniel in peace. But when it becomes clear that the house, influenced by the magic of Nathaniel’s ancestors, requires a price for its obedience, Elisabeth and Nathaniel will have to lean on their connection like never before to set things right.

Review

Diving into the Mysteries of Thorn Manor, I did not realize that it was a continuation to Sorcery of Thorns. I’d admit that it was a bit confusing to follow at times, but overall, it was a pretty decent read. I’ve read Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson and was captured by how well the writing was, so I was not surprised when the writing in Mysteries of Thorn Manor was also written well.  For the characters and their chemistry, it feels like the relationship was developed between Nathaniel and Elisabeth in Sorcery of Thorns because reading the two, I was bale ot pick up quickly how involved they were. I really enjoyed their sweet banter between each other and the carefree way they show affection not each other.

In regard to the plot, I was pretty intrigued. A manor closing itself suddenly from the outside, leaving those inside no way to leave. Throw in some deadly fighting topiaries, dangerous weather and other shenanigans and you are in for an adventure. It was definitely an interesting concept. I enjoyed following Nathaniel and Elisabeth as they try to figure out how to stop the manor before it causes harm. When it came ot the pace of the story, it started off well but then felt rushed towards the end.

If you plan to dive into this story I’d highly recommend you read Sorcery of Thorns first to get a better understanding of the characters and have overall better context.

About the Author

Margaret Rogerson is the New York Times bestselling author of An Enchantment of Ravens. An Ohio native, she currently lives near Cincinnati. She has a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, and when not busy reading or writing, she enjoys watching more documentaries than most people consider socially acceptable.

Blog Tour [Review]” The Old Dragon’s Head

Follow the Tour: https://www.jeanbooknerd.com/2023/01/the-old-dragons-head-by-justin-newland.html

Title: The Old Dragon’s Head
Author: Justin Newland
Publisher:Matador Books
Publication Date: October 8 2018
Genres: Historical Fantasy

Where to Buy: AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY

Thank you JeanBookNerd Tours and Matador Books for the opportunity to review and to be a part of this book tour!

Rating: 4 Stars

Synopsis

Constructed of stone and packed earth, the Great Wall of 10,000 li protects China’s northern borders from the threat of Mongol incursion. The wall is also home to a supernatural beast: the Old Dragon. The Old Dragon’s Head is the most easterly point of the wall, where it finally meets the sea.

In every era, a Dragon Master is born. Endowed with the powers of Heaven, only he can summon the Old Dragon so long as he possess the dragon pearl.

It’s the year 1400, and neither the Old Dragon, the dragon pearl, nor the Dragon Master, has been seen for twenty years. Bolin, a young man working on the Old Dragon’s Head, suffers visions of ghosts. Folk believe he has yin-yang eyes and other paranormal gifts.When Bolin’s fief lord, the Prince of Yan, rebels against his nephew, the Jianwen Emperor, a bitter war of succession ensues in which the Mongols hold the balance of power. While the victor might win the battle on earth, China’s Dragon Throne can only be earned with a Mandate from Heaven – and the support of the Old Dragon.

Bolin embarks on a journey of self-discovery, mirroring Old China’s endeavour to come of age. When Bolin accepts his destiny as the Dragon Master, Heaven sends a third coming of age – for humanity itself. But are any of them ready for what is rising in the east?

Praise for THE OLD DRAGON’S HEAD

“A stand out novel that ticks all the boxes – murder, mystery, treason, glorious villains, reluctant heroes and more than a touch of the supernatural.” —Discovering Diamonds

“The author is an excellent storyteller.” British Fantasy Society. “History meets magic, culture meets supernatural… I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a twist.” —Books Beyond the Story

“This is an exceptionally well-written book which takes one back to the China of 1400.” —That’s Books and Entertainment

“I absolutely loved the mix of fantasy elements well-rooted in Chinese history.” —Jessica Belmont

“I enjoyed the different perspectives and the magical realism.” —Rosie Cawkwell

“This book was part murder mystery and part fantasy with some fabulous villains and heroes.” —Over the Rainbow

“This isn’t your typical coming of age story – it’s filled with tough choices, unexpected surprises, and a destiny that’s bigger than anyone can imagine.” —The Faerie Review

“This epic story has it all – adventure, mystery, villains, the supernatural, and at its heart a true coming of age journey.” —Books and Emma

“This is a book of historical fantasy, but in terms of the fantasy, it is subtle, and firmly rooted in cultural beliefs and superstitions within the time period covered in the book.” —Book Mad Jo

“This is not just a fantasy book, this is a fantasy with history, murder, mystery, legend, myth and of course the supernatural. There are villains and heroes and action and adventure.” —Bookmarks and Stages

Review

If you want a fantasy story with a good pace, historical context woven in beautifully and characters that are well developed and super cool, well this is the story you want to read. Set in 1400 China- The Great Wall of China, The Old Dragon’s Head transcends the reader in an epic journey of self discovery, secrets and a looming war to prevent. The pacing of The Old Dragon’s Head was pretty solid. It starts a bit slow like many fantasy novels do to build up on the action. Once the context is establish, you are pulled into the action, the mystery and you are rooting for the main characters. Justin Newland masterfully writes the scenery, allowing the reader to put themselves aside Bolin and Lulli.

I enjoyed the character developed so much in this story. Bolin, a son of a fisherman is living a simple life – well as simple as he can. Bolin has strange visions, has one foot in the natural and super natural world and aching headaches he cant get rid. His headaches seem to worsen the closer he gets to the Old Dragon location. His journey deals a lot with self discovery and being uncomfortable with the visions he is trying to escape. With a Dragon Master gone for 20 years, Bolin may be the person that could fill that spot and summon old Lailong and save his home from a potential natural and supernatural attack. Luli, a single mom full of strength and bravery navigates the world knowing that the people around her see her and her son as outcasts. Luli also has a connection to the supernatural world of ghosts and uses her gift to connect those living with the undead. Through everything, Luli’s ability to fight and survive each day was something I appreciated immensely.

Overall, I would recommend this book to those who want to sink into a story and savor each turn, twists and action scene.

About the Author

Justin Newland is an author of historical fantasy and secret history thrillers – that’s history with a supernatural twist. His stories feature known events and real people from history which are re-told and examined through the lens of the supernatural. He gives author talks and is a regular contributor to BBC Radio Bristol’s Thought for the Day. He lives with his partner in plain sight of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, England.

Website | Goodreads | Instagram | Facebook

Giveaway [Click pic below]

– 2 Winners will receive a Signed Copy of THE OLD DRAGON’S HEAD by Justin Newland.
– 1 Winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card.

Book Tour [Review]: The Urban Boys: Discovery of the Five Senses

Follow the Tour!: https://www.jeanbooknerd.com/2022/09/discovery-of-five-senses-by-kn-smith.html

Title: The Urban Boys: Discovery of the Five Senses
Author: K.N. Smith
Publisher: Two Petals Publishing
Publication Date: September 29 0215
Genres: Young Adult Fiction

Where to buy: AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY

Thank you JeanBookNerd and Two Petals Publishing for the opportunity to review and to be a part of this book tour!

Rating : 4 stars

Synopsis

Welcome or unwelcome. Fate has arrived.

“A captivating and poetic tale of mystery, fantasy, and reality tied together by action!” 5-stars, Lars Jackson, Amazon Customer

A suspenseful incident in a forbidden preserve heightens the senses of five friends. Sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell become super-gifts that forever change the world. But furious battles confront the boys as they try to understand their sensory super powers in a race to save mankind. With light beings and mysterious strangers complicating their plight, can the boys defeat the evil Druth before it’s too late? Get prepared for the twisting and grinding of this award-winning, action-adventure story — an edge-of-your-seat narrative for young and mature readers alike.

Review

Danville Heights – a town that gives small town vibes. A unexpected event that changes the lives of five young boys. Now, with heightened sense and abilities that are deemed superhero worthy, five boys are on a mission to save their home. K.N. Smooth had a way of creating a story that was both exciting and still had a bit of mystery. It’s a super-esque story with young teen boys fighting a greater threat to save their home. Through their heightened senses – each one possessing a different heightened sense, they bond through this unexpected new powers. I really enjoyed the focus of friendship and testing the limits of friendships. I also enjoyed that this book showed young boys as superheroes. It is always good to have more of that representation and K.N. Smith did it well.

In regards to the superpowers, I really enjoyed how the five senses were used to be the superpower. It was like if Spiderman was a 5 teen super team and each sense complimented the other. The pace and world building were pretty good, but I wanted to have some of the action scenes pick up just a bit quicker. This story held multiple POV’s and while I am usually a fan of that particular storytelling style, it was difficult at times to distinguish which voice narrative was occurring.  

Overall it is a good read with a good pace and a cool story.

About the Author

K.N. Smith, winner of the “Best of” in the category of “Outstanding Young Adult Novel” at the Jessie Redmon Fauset Book Awards, and Readers’ Favorite “Gold Medal” honoree for “Young Adult – Mystery”, is an author and passionate advocate of literacy and arts programs throughout the world. Her lyrical flair sweeps across pages that twist and grind through action-adventure and urban fantasy in edge-of-your-seat narratives. K.N. has over twenty-five years’ experience in communications and creative design as an award-winning consultant. Reading is still her foremost hobby. K.N. inspires people of all ages to reach their highest potential in their creative, educational, and life pursuits. Visit K.N. Smith at www.knsmith.com.

Author Links

WEBSITE
GOODREADS
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM

PHOTO CONTENT FROM K.N. SMITH

–Giveaway is open to International. | Must be 13+ to Enter

 1 Winner will receive a Kindle Fire HD 10
1 Winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card.

Click here for the giveaway!

Book Tour [Review]: The Edge of Summer

Title: The Edge of Summer
Author: Erica George
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: June 14th, 2022
Genres: Young Adult Contemporary Romance

Where to buy: Amazon | BookDepository | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Indigo

Thank you TBR and Beyond Tour and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for a review copy and the opportunity to be on this tour.

Rating: 4 stars

Synopsis

Fans of Sarah Dessen and Morgan Matson will be swept away by this big-hearted novel about one girl navigating first loss and first love during her summer on Cape Cod.

Saving the whales has been Coriander Cabot and her best friend Ella’s dream since elementary school. But when tragedy strikes, Cor is left to complete the list of things they wanted to accomplish before college alone, including a marine biology internship on Cape Cod.

Cor’s summer of healing and new beginnings turns complicated when she meets Mannix, a local lifeguard who completely takes her breath away. But she knows whatever she has with Mannix might not last, and that her focus should be on rescuing the humpback whales from entanglement. As the tide changes, Cor finds herself distracted and struggling with her priorities.

Can she follow her heart and keep her promise to the whales and her best friend?

Review

The Edge of Summer is such a good summer read. It is also a story that talk about loss and grief in a way that feels okay. Ericka’s writing style with this story was concise and easy to follow.

We are introduced to Coriander who is staying with her Uncle as she prepares for a cool marine internship. It is part of a bucket list she created with her friend Ella. She is now checking things off on her own while dealing with the loss of her friend Ella. Throughout the summer Cor starts a romance with lifeguard Mannix and navigate loss and new love. When thinking of Cor and Mannix, their relationship was messy but the chemistry was there. The feelings didn’t feel forced or too perfect and it was something that felt relatable even to an adult like myself. While Cor can be a hard character to warm up to with some of her actions such as not responding, placing her anger or sadness on the wrong people, I still appreciated how much of a teenager Cor was. Teens are not perfect, and we’ve all been in some situation where our emotions are just a lot sometimes. I appreciated how Cor was written while also acknowledging that some of her actions were hurtful, especially towards Mannix.  Speaking of Mannix, he was a cool, carefree kind of teen boy growing feelings for a girl he just met.

When thinking of the setting of Cape Cod and the focus of whales, I felt like I was reading on a beach hearing the ocean sounds. The one things I enjoyed was how the story intertwined advocacy for whales while also connecting that to the main story. It made me as the reader feel inspired to want to keep those majestic sea mammals safe while learning more about them. Overall, I was a fan of the whale talk because it was not forced talk. Overall, this was a quick and fun read. If you are a fan of summer contemporary young adult romances, this is a go to read.

About the Author

Erica George is a writer of young adult fiction. She is a graduate of The College of New Jersey with degrees in both English and education, and is currently an MFA student at the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She resides in scenic northern New Jersey, but spends her summers soaking up the salty sea air on Cape Cod.
Many themes in Erica’s writing rotate around environmental activism and helping young people find their voice. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring river towns, whale watching, or engrossed in quality British drama with her dog at her side.

Author Links: Website | Goodreads | Instagram | Twitter

Follow the Tour!

Book Tour

June 13th
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post
Jen Jen Reviews – Review

June 14th
Kait Plus Books – Interview
Sadie’s Spotlight – Promotional Post

June 15th
Stuck in Fiction – Promotional Post
A Bronx Latina Reads – Review

June 16th
Lost in Neverland – Review
One More Chapter – Review

June 17th
Melancholic Blithe – Interview
Book lover’s book reviews – Promotional Post & Tik Tok

June 18th
Nine Bookish Lives – Promotional Post
Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review & Playlist

June 19th
Whispering Stories – Interview
Justice For Readers – Promotional Post

Instagram Tour

June 13th
booking.with.janelle -Promotional Post
booksandsnapshots – Review
tinybooknest – Favorite Quotes

June 14th
writingrosereads – Promotional Post
sadiesspotlight – Blogger’s Choice

June 15th
feliciareads11 – Blogger’s Choice
belle.bookcorner – Review & Favorite Quotes

June 16th
tbrandbeyond – Promotional Post
katiereads23 – Review
_leahreads – Blogger’s Choice

June 17th
bhaneereads_ – Top 5 Reasons to Read The Edge of Summer
bookloversbookreviews – Blogger’s Choice

June 18th
ninebookishlives – Blogger’s Choice
musfira._ – Promotional Post

June 19th
fangirlpixiebooks – Promotional Post
GryffindorBookishNerd – Review
atrailofpages – Review