Showing posts with label Prism Book Tours. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prism Book Tours. Show all posts

Friday, March 25, 2022

Read an exclusive excerpt from Blade of Ash by C.F.E. Black

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


There's nothing like curling up with a great epic fantasy! And today I am bringing you an exclusive excerpt from Blade of Ash by C.F.E. Black to whet your appetite. Be sure to also check out the rest of the tour and the great giveaway!


Blade of Ash
(Scepter and Crown #1)
By C.F.E. Black
Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Hardcover & ebook, 363 Pages
January 25, 2022 by Hillcity Press

The only way to beat death is to chase it. 
 
Newly crowned, Red blames one person for his father’s murder: the secret sorceress sworn to protect the king. Alyana Barron, Royal Sorcerer to the throne of Tandera, fears her magic is weakening. For reasons they don't fully understand, a powerful enemy twisted by dark magic wants them both dead. 
 
When Red is cursed, his life entwines with Aly’s in ways neither of them expected. Together, they chase after a cure that will heal the king and restore her magic, but the closer they get to a cure, the nearer they step toward death, for the path to the cure is as dangerous as the curse itself. 
 
Blade of Ash is the first in a new, epic YA fantasy series perfect for fans of clean enemies-to-lovers romance packed full of royal intrigue, legends, and plenty of ballgowns. If you like female bodyguards and forced proximity with life-and-death stakes, check out Blade of Ash.


(Affiliate links included.)


Read an exclusive excerpt:
Standing before him, she lifted both hands toward him.

He realized what she was doing and stiffened as her hands met his head. The way her fingers felt as they slipped into and under his hair, the cool lines traced by her fingertips on his hot skin, made his entire body shudder. She felt his tremor and clamped her hands around his skull, her magic already beginning to seep in.

The knots in his shoulders, neck, back, chest, began to loosen almost immediately. He couldn’t even tell she was doing magic, but he felt the pain ebb. His head tipped forward even more, her strong hands holding him steady. The crown of his head hovered merely inches from her stomach, and every part of Red could feel those inches like they were the last few steps between a thirsty man in the desert and a pool of clear water.

The blood flushed to the knotted areas in his body, melting the tension and seeking the places that had been closed off for too long. He heard himself whimper. As his muscles gave way to her magic, he felt sleep beginning to creep up from his toes to his torso. He was going to fall over and sleep right there on the floor.

But for a moment, he fought the tiredness, not wanting to cut this moment short. Her fingers twitched slightly against his skull, the sensation electrifying on top of her closeness and the magic surging through his body. He did not want it to end.

Unexpectedly he wanted only one thing: to cross the distance between them.

Excerpted from Blade of Ash by C.F.E. Black, Copyright © 2022 by C.F.E. Black. Published by Hillcity Press.



Other Books in the Series

Shield of Shadow
(Scepter and Crown #0.5)
By C.F.E. Black
Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance
E-book, 141 Pages
November 2021 by Hillcity Press

Alyana Barron is tired of living a secluded life apart from society, hiding her magic from watching eyes. When a nobleman offers Aly the chance to train as a Master Sorcerer, secrets hidden in her past will come to light and she'll have to fight to keep her safety and guard her heart.

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


C. F. E. Black loves to get swept away in books, both reading and writing them. When she’s not writing or chasing her son, she’s teaching high schoolers and trying her best to be a light in their lives. She lives in beautiful north Alabama with her superhero husband, sons, and fur-family. Connect with her and find free stories at www.cfeblack.com.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


A signed hardcover of Blade of Ash by C.F.E. Black, a character art print of Red and Aly, and a map print (US only; $20 Amazon e-gift card will be substituted for INT)

Ends March 30, 2022

ENTER HERE
 
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Friday, December 3, 2021

Read an exclusive excerpt from The Sherwood Proof by Kristee Ravan

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


Welcome to the tour for The Sherwood Proof by Kristee Ravan! Today I have an exclusive excerpt for you to enjoy from this fun series. You can also read an author interview at Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters. And stay tuned for my review at Andi's Middle Grade and Chapter Books!


The Sherwood Proof
(The Lily Sparrow Chronicles #3)
By Kristee Ravan
Middle-Grade, Fairy Tale, Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 569 Pages
November 23, 2021 by Kristee Ravan

Lily Sparrow has finally created an equation for being a good princess. Things are adding up and making sense, and she’s even growing a measurable amount more excited about her future. But unexpected variables keep being tossed into her equation:

1. Carole Claus is facing her first hurdle as Santa. She needs Lily’s help.
2. Lily’s Half-Birthday--an important Smythian tradition--is coming up, requiring her to find time to prepare for it.
3. Her algebra teacher has an unusual (and stressful plan) for Lily.
4. Lily remains convinced that her mom is hiding something from her.
5. The investigation into the traitor is an on-going source of stress and tension at work for Lily and Calo.
6. Oh, and Calo’s still betrothed to Su’Sauna, making life difficult and confusing all around.

Will Lily be able to place these variables securely in her equation? Will the Sparrow family find a way to convince their critics they are good for the Kingdom? Or will everything fall apart--subtracting all the good will Lily has already earned from her citizens?



(Affiliate links included.)


Read an exclusive excerpt:
My circulating and small talk skills had improved greatly over the last several months, so I went easily from group to group, trying to make sure I spent equal time with all. Once when I was with Corrie, Calo came over to us. Su’Sauna followed, of course.

“You must be Corrie.” He shook her hand. “Lily has told me so much about you. You’re a good friend.”

Corrie smiled. “I’ve heard a lot about you too.”

Su’Sauna laughed. “I think it’s just so interesting the Princess has a little friend in OtherWorld. We’ve never had our Future Protector grow up so completely ignorant and out of touch with her real country before.” She flashed a smile. “It’s been such a fascinating transition for us.”

No one said anything for 4 whole seconds.

I knew from my training with Miss Reed that I should be the first one to speak, to say, Thank you for sharing your opinion, while I smiled sweetly, but I didn’t trust myself to do anything more than smile. And I’m sure that smile was far more fixed than sweet.

Corrie made a sort of strangled gasping noise as her mouth fell open from shock.

Calo finally cleared his throat and said, “Su’Sauna, I see the Queen is not currently speaking with anyone. We should go pay our respects.”

“Of course. Bye y’all.” She waved at us as she followed Calo.

I watched them go, but Calo never turned back.

“Cinnamon tea.” Eric was suddenly right beside me, holding a steaming cup on a saucer.

“That was so rude!” Corrie exploded. “How dare she say all that stuff right to your face!”

Eric chuckled. “I overheard her comments as I passed by, and it seems my future-sister-in-law dares quite a bit. I hope Calo can handle her.” He smiled again.

“She doesn’t like me,” I said, taking the tea gratefully.

I walked a little away from Corrie and Eric. They were discussing how such rudeness should be punished. I sipped my tea thoughtfully. I wasn’t sure punishment was the answer. I was more concerned there was among my citizens someone who actively disliked me.

 

Excerpted from The Sherwood Proof by Kristee Ravan, Copyright © 2021 by Kristee Ravan. Published by Kristee Ravan.


Other Books in the Series


About the Author


Kristee Ravan lives in Oklahoma with her husband, daughter, and pet fish, Val (short for Valentine). She wanted to be many things as she grew up including a general, an artist, and an architect. But she never bothered to say, "I want to be a writer when I grow up." She was always writing stories and thought of herself as a writer anyway. She sent her first story to a publisher in the sixth grade. (It was rejected - in a nice way.) When she is not making up stories in her head, she enjoys reading, juggling, green smoothies, playing dollhouse with her daughter, and hearing from her fans. You can contact Kristee at the Facebook page for her Lily Sparrow books: The Lily Sparrow Chronicles.



Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


Three winners will receive a print copy of The Sherwood Proof (US only)

Ends December 15, 2021

 
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Friday, September 24, 2021

Read an exclusive excerpt from Heir of Elriyon by K. Michele Moseley

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


Welcome to the book tour for Heir of Elriyon! Today I have an exclusive excerpt for you to enjoy. Let the author know what you think in the comments! And then be sure to follow the tour via the link above for even more. Best of luck in the giveaway!


Heir of Elriyon
By K. Michele Moseley
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 301 Pages
August 20, 2021 by Uncommon Universes Press

Aenya's destiny could cost her freedom.

After years of compulsory training to become an elite warrior, sixteen-year-old Aenya plans to run away with her friend Lewin. However, her plans crumble when she is chosen to be Elriyon’s new figurehead and wife to the future ruler, Rieve.

But Aenya has a secret: she is a Darcara—one chosen by elusive dragon-like beings, the Dargun, to receive the wisdom that once governed her people.

When the current rulers decide to stop a growing rebellion by killing the remaining Dargun, Aenya flees to Elriyon’s mysterious interior. Still, the Dargun’s words burn into her mind. They have a new task for her: return to her people and speak the truth, no matter the cost.

With escape close at hand, Aenya must choose between a dangerous calling or finally being free.



(Affiliate links included.)


Read an exclusive excerpt:
He shows me a story I can’t turn away from. There’s danger, like walls crumbling around me, but I am not me. I am someone else, kneeling beside paints and parchment, pleading for help. Though I can’t hear it, I feel people screaming beyond the crumbling walls. Please help us. Don’t let this happen. Please.

And the reply is warm. No, hot, as if I’ve sat too long in front of the fireplace.

This must happen. It must be done. But somewhere in the flames there are two promises. One of someone who will help, someone who will pick up the broken pieces, end the rage and fear. And second, that one day, someone else will come and lead everyone back to where they are safe.

But how can they? Who will teach them? I’m begging, even if it’s no use.

Sparks of blue and red stab at me as the words flood in.

You will. And all who are of your line. There will always be one or two who can still hear, who will awaken the gift in others. We are not lost.

The pressure lets go, just before I feel it will kill me.


Excerpted from Heir of Elriyon by K. Michele Moseley, Copyright © 2021 by K. Michele Moseley. Published by Uncommon Universes Press.



About the Author


K. Michele Moseley found her love for storytelling on a Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the third grade. Though she struggled with dyslexia, her passion for stories allowed her to overcome the challenges that came with telling them. While she writes in many genres, what she likes best is creating stories for young adults that place real-life obstacles into fantastic worlds. When not inventing new realms, she spends her time chasing after her two sons and playing "Netflix Roulette" with her husband.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


Paperback of Heir of Elriyon by K. Michele Moseley, a set of two loose-leaf teas, a set of character art, and a bookmark (US Only)

Ends September 29, 2021


ENTER HERE

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Friday, September 17, 2021

Read an excerpt from Mountain of Flame by Diane E. Samson

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We're celebrating the release of the third book in the Gems of Fire series, Mountain of Flame! Today, the author shares an excerpt from the third book Mountain of Flame. If you missed her character interview with Anna, you can read that HERE. She also shared an excerpt from the second book Valley of Bones HERE. Plus, there's a giveaway to enter below. Enjoy!

Gems of Fire
(Gems of Fire #1)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback, ebook & audiobook, 276 Pages
November 6, 2018 by Clean Reads

Palace of Sunderland. Paradise to the peasants. Prison to sixteen-year-old Anna, daughter of the king. She can never escape the castle’s cold walls and scorning disapproval of her father and his brute royal counsel, Seamus. She’ll always live in the shadow of her late mother, the queen. Will they ever see her for who she really is?

A riding accident lands Anna in the hands of traders who sell her as a slave in distant Kasdod to none other than her father’s enemy, Lord Anwar. After overhearing a dangerous plot to conquer Sunderland and kill the royal family, Anna must escape and warn her father, even if it means facing her greatest enemy.

With the doom looming over her, Anna is approached by a dangerous man in the dark. He claims to want to help her, but can she trust him with her secrets? The perils of the journey ahead will push Anna to the limit and answer the one question that has always plagued her...

Will she ever be enough?

Praise for the Book

“What an exciting book to read. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The characters were very well developed, and it made me cheer for them all the way through. The cover is very dramatic and fits very well with the story. Great read.” - Goodreads Reviewer

“One Tough Princess…A princess who despite great suffering never gives up. I really loved Anna’s determination and heart. You’ll find adventure, high stakes and romance in the midst of such horrible circumstances. A solid plot with a story that stayed with me.” - Amazon Reviewer

“A breathtaking journey into royal courts, slavery, escape, war, and love. This book has it all…” - Amazon Reviewer

(Affiliate links included.)

Valley of Bones
(Gems of Fire #2)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 370 Pages
February 13, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Princess Anna is left to rule Sunderland as regent when her father, brother and her presumed fiancé Jack ride to battle devouring creatures in Jack’s home kingdom of Oclen. She must establish herself as a strong leader with the Sunderland council and a neighboring king who brings along two handsome princes to negotiate an alliance.

Trouble erupts as outlining Sunderland villages are attacked by pillaging marauders and the council loses confidence in Anna’s leadership. As Anna waits in trepidation for word from her father’s army, all she hears is silence. Her scouts never return. When the reports of a coming horror reach Anna, she forges an unlikely alliance and forgoes her father’s long-standing policies against gems of power. She trains Sunderland’s remaining soldiers to fight with gems. She’ll lead them to battle to rescue her family and the one she loves.

But first she must survive the treachery brewing in her own court.

(Affiliate links included.)
 
Mountain of Flame
(Gems of Fire #3)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 450 Pages
August 4, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Reeling from Jack becoming king of Oclen, Princess Anna returns home as Sunderland’s Defender. Earning her title was a hard-fought honor, but Anna can’t escape the guilt of leaving Jack alone in that cursed, starving place.

When Jack comes to Sunderland seeking aid from Anna’s father, she must decide whether to return with him and help defeat the curse plaguing the cold northern land. If she remains Sunderland’s Defender, she knows her heart would never forgive her for abandoning Jack to rebuild a crushed kingdom.

Can Anna leave what she loves to become queen of a people suspicious of her and the gems? Joining Jack would mean battling an evil greater than anything she’s ever faced, for the curse’s roots grow deep. But if she doesn’t, Oclen will likely fall and Anna will lose Jack forever.

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt from Mountain of Flame

A group of soldiers on the slope ahead halted their horses, their hands flying to their swords. Anna used her last ounce of strength to stop Farley before he ran right into them, the reins tearing through her water-softened hands. He half-reared and skidded to a stop, puffing and blowing. Anna patted his foam-flecked neck. Her arms and back trembled with exhaustion, and her side screamed in pain.

Zac launched over the hill behind her. “Anna!” He pulled up next to her. “Are you all right?”

She gave him an apologetic glance. Her breath hitched in her chest.

Twelve men in Oclen uniforms shifted their horses into a tight triangle formation. Two horses stood at the point and five horses down each side. Zac’s hand twitched to his sword as he moved his horse closer to Anna. She was faintly aware that Bart and Gavriella rode up behind them.

“Greetings,” Anna called, as she let the reins slide through her fingers. Farley strode forward a few steps before she halted him again, cringing at the pain in her hands. He chomped on the bit and tossed his head. She searched for Jack’s chestnut horse to no avail. “What news do you bring from Oclen? Is your king well?” Her heart hammered against her ribs. None of the men looked familiar.

“At ease,” the one voice Anna wanted to hear most spoke from the rear. The soldiers’ formation split as Jack’s chestnut horse, Avery, moved up the center of the triangle and halted in front of her. Farley nickered. Jack looked so different—thin with deep, purple circles under his eyes and pale, sunken cheeks. “The king is alive, at least.”

Excerpted from Mountain of Flame by Diane E. Samson, Copyright © 2021 by Diane E. Samson. Published by Diane E. Samson.

About the Author

Diane E. Samson grew up on acreage just north of Kansas City, Missouri, with horses and dogs in the backyard. She later pursued her love of words and earned a degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. After graduation she worked as a reporter, managing editor, freelance writer and in public relations. After moving around the country, she's recently returned to the Kansas City area where she lives with her husband, children and golden retriever.

She's written fiction off and on her whole life and is the author of the YA fantasy Gems of Fire series including Gems of Fire, Valley of Bones and Mountain of Flame. The series centers on a girl traveling a journey of self-discovery in a world of powerful gems, supernatural forces, epic battles and of course, handsome heroes.


Tour Giveaway


Print copies of Gems of Fire and Valley of Bones by Diane E. Samson, a $25 Amazon gift card, three gem necklaces, and bookmarks (US only)

Ends September 19, 2021

Grab Our Button!

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

Read an excerpt from Valley of Bones by Diane E. Samson

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We're celebrating the release of the third book in the Gems of Fire series, Mountain of Flame! Today, the author shares an excerpt from the second book Valley of Bones. If you missed her character interview with Anna, you can read that HERE. Next, she shares an excerpt from the third book Mountain of Flame. Plus, there's a giveaway to enter below. Enjoy!


Gems of Fire
(Gems of Fire #1)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback, ebook & audiobook, 276 Pages
November 6, 2018 by Clean Reads

Palace of Sunderland. Paradise to the peasants. Prison to sixteen-year-old Anna, daughter of the king. She can never escape the castle’s cold walls and scorning disapproval of her father and his brute royal counsel, Seamus. She’ll always live in the shadow of her late mother, the queen. Will they ever see her for who she really is?

A riding accident lands Anna in the hands of traders who sell her as a slave in distant Kasdod to none other than her father’s enemy, Lord Anwar. After overhearing a dangerous plot to conquer Sunderland and kill the royal family, Anna must escape and warn her father, even if it means facing her greatest enemy.

With the doom looming over her, Anna is approached by a dangerous man in the dark. He claims to want to help her, but can she trust him with her secrets? The perils of the journey ahead will push Anna to the limit and answer the one question that has always plagued her...

Will she ever be enough?

Praise for the Book

“What an exciting book to read. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The characters were very well developed, and it made me cheer for them all the way through. The cover is very dramatic and fits very well with the story. Great read.” - Goodreads Reviewer

“One Tough Princess…A princess who despite great suffering never gives up. I really loved Anna’s determination and heart. You’ll find adventure, high stakes and romance in the midst of such horrible circumstances. A solid plot with a story that stayed with me.” - Amazon Reviewer

“A breathtaking journey into royal courts, slavery, escape, war, and love. This book has it all…” - Amazon Reviewer


(Affiliate links included.)


Valley of Bones
(Gems of Fire #2)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 370 Pages
February 13, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Princess Anna is left to rule Sunderland as regent when her father, brother and her presumed fiancé Jack ride to battle devouring creatures in Jack’s home kingdom of Oclen. She must establish herself as a strong leader with the Sunderland council and a neighboring king who brings along two handsome princes to negotiate an alliance.

Trouble erupts as outlining Sunderland villages are attacked by pillaging marauders and the council loses confidence in Anna’s leadership. As Anna waits in trepidation for word from her father’s army, all she hears is silence. Her scouts never return. When the reports of a coming horror reach Anna, she forges an unlikely alliance and forgoes her father’s long-standing policies against gems of power. She trains Sunderland’s remaining soldiers to fight with gems. She’ll lead them to battle to rescue her family and the one she loves.

But first she must survive the treachery brewing in her own court.


(Affiliate links included.)

 
Mountain of Flame
(Gems of Fire #3)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 450 Pages
August 4, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Reeling from Jack becoming king of Oclen, Princess Anna returns home as Sunderland’s Defender. Earning her title was a hard-fought honor, but Anna can’t escape the guilt of leaving Jack alone in that cursed, starving place.

When Jack comes to Sunderland seeking aid from Anna’s father, she must decide whether to return with him and help defeat the curse plaguing the cold northern land. If she remains Sunderland’s Defender, she knows her heart would never forgive her for abandoning Jack to rebuild a crushed kingdom.

Can Anna leave what she loves to become queen of a people suspicious of her and the gems? Joining Jack would mean battling an evil greater than anything she’s ever faced, for the curse’s roots grow deep. But if she doesn’t, Oclen will likely fall and Anna will lose Jack forever.


(Affiliate links included.)


Excerpt from Valley of Bones

“You have a kind heart, Princess.” He stared out the doorway. A shadow fell across his features. “But it will not save you from what’s coming.”

“What’s coming?” Anna whispered. He faced her. Pure horror reflected in his eyes.

“My men and I were on the North Sea. Our ship was destroyed by beasts off the north coast of Oclen.”

“Beasts?” Anna’s heart skipped.

“It’s the stuff of nightmares.” His voice was low, his tone measured. “They boarded my ship from another boat and went on a killing rampage. We had to abandon ship. A fraction of my men made it to shore in a few small boats. My beautiful ship sank in those bloody waves.”

Anna shuddered. More beasts.

He was silent a long time. He pursed his lips and studied her. “Sit down. I don’t want you fainting.”

Anna lowered herself to the fur rug. Her eyes didn’t leave his face as a slow roil churned in her gut.

“Hopefully some of the beasts went down with the ship, but many followed us to shore. They swam a mile in the cold North Sea in the dark.”

“How is that possible?”

“These things are not human.”

Anna blinked. The man from Oclen had warned them. Her head spun.

“Many of my men died. There was nothing I could do. Our swords bounced off their hides. Our arrows did not pierce their skin.” He grabbed the wine bottle and slumped down next to her.

Excerpted from Valley of Bones by Diane E. Samson, Copyright © 2021 by Diane E. Samson. Published by Diane E. Samson.

About the Author

Diane E. Samson grew up on acreage just north of Kansas City, Missouri, with horses and dogs in the backyard. She later pursued her love of words and earned a degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. After graduation she worked as a reporter, managing editor, freelance writer and in public relations. After moving around the country, she's recently returned to the Kansas City area where she lives with her husband, children and golden retriever.

She's written fiction off and on her whole life and is the author of the YA fantasy Gems of Fire series including Gems of Fire, Valley of Bones and Mountain of Flame. The series centers on a girl traveling a journey of self-discovery in a world of powerful gems, supernatural forces, epic battles and of course, handsome heroes.


Tour Giveaway


Print copies of Gems of Fire and Valley of Bones by Diane E. Samson, a $25 Amazon gift card, three gem necklaces, and bookmarks (US only)

Ends September 19, 2021


Grab Our Button!

Monday, September 13, 2021

Character Interview with Anna from Gems of Fire by Diane E. Samson

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We're celebrating the release of the third book in the Gems of Fire series, Mountain of Flame! Today, the author shares an interview with the main character of the series, Anna. Next, she shares excerpts from the books. Plus, there's a giveaway to enter below. Enjoy!

Gems of Fire
(Gems of Fire #1)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback, ebook & audiobook, 276 Pages
November 6, 2018 by Clean Reads

Palace of Sunderland. Paradise to the peasants. Prison to sixteen-year-old Anna, daughter of the king. She can never escape the castle’s cold walls and scorning disapproval of her father and his brute royal counsel, Seamus. She’ll always live in the shadow of her late mother, the queen. Will they ever see her for who she really is?

A riding accident lands Anna in the hands of traders who sell her as a slave in distant Kasdod to none other than her father’s enemy, Lord Anwar. After overhearing a dangerous plot to conquer Sunderland and kill the royal family, Anna must escape and warn her father, even if it means facing her greatest enemy.

With the doom looming over her, Anna is approached by a dangerous man in the dark. He claims to want to help her, but can she trust him with her secrets? The perils of the journey ahead will push Anna to the limit and answer the one question that has always plagued her...

Will she ever be enough?

Praise for the Book

“What an exciting book to read. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The characters were very well developed, and it made me cheer for them all the way through. The cover is very dramatic and fits very well with the story. Great read.” - Goodreads Reviewer

“One Tough Princess…A princess who despite great suffering never gives up. I really loved Anna’s determination and heart. You’ll find adventure, high stakes and romance in the midst of such horrible circumstances. A solid plot with a story that stayed with me.” - Amazon Reviewer

“A breathtaking journey into royal courts, slavery, escape, war, and love. This book has it all…” - Amazon Reviewer

(Affiliate links included.)


Valley of Bones
(Gems of Fire #2)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 370 Pages
February 13, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Princess Anna is left to rule Sunderland as regent when her father, brother and her presumed fiancé Jack ride to battle devouring creatures in Jack’s home kingdom of Oclen. She must establish herself as a strong leader with the Sunderland council and a neighboring king who brings along two handsome princes to negotiate an alliance.

Trouble erupts as outlining Sunderland villages are attacked by pillaging marauders and the council loses confidence in Anna’s leadership. As Anna waits in trepidation for word from her father’s army, all she hears is silence. Her scouts never return. When the reports of a coming horror reach Anna, she forges an unlikely alliance and forgoes her father’s long-standing policies against gems of power. She trains Sunderland’s remaining soldiers to fight with gems. She’ll lead them to battle to rescue her family and the one she loves.

But first she must survive the treachery brewing in her own court.

(Affiliate links included.)

 
Mountain of Flame
(Gems of Fire #3)
By Diane E. Samson
Young Adult Fantasy
Paperback & ebook, 450 Pages
August 4, 2021 by Diane E. Samson

Reeling from Jack becoming king of Oclen, Princess Anna returns home as Sunderland’s Defender. Earning her title was a hard-fought honor, but Anna can’t escape the guilt of leaving Jack alone in that cursed, starving place.

When Jack comes to Sunderland seeking aid from Anna’s father, she must decide whether to return with him and help defeat the curse plaguing the cold northern land. If she remains Sunderland’s Defender, she knows her heart would never forgive her for abandoning Jack to rebuild a crushed kingdom.

Can Anna leave what she loves to become queen of a people suspicious of her and the gems? Joining Jack would mean battling an evil greater than anything she’s ever faced, for the curse’s roots grow deep. But if she doesn’t, Oclen will likely fall and Anna will lose Jack forever.


(Affiliate links included.)


Character Interview with Anna

(These answers represent the timing of Book One, Gems of Fire)
 
Tell me about yourself:

I’m Anna of Sunderland, 16-year-old, third-born to King Vilipp. My birthday is in autumn, September 21. I resemble my mother in appearance only. She was loving, good and adored by all. I can’t help but disappoint my father and his brooding advisor, Seamus.

Who are your siblings?

Stefan is my older brother and crown prince of Sunderland. He’s watched out for me to the best of his ability since our mother passed away when I was four. He is now 22 years old. Saira, 20 years old, is my older sister. She’s been away to be educated as an ambassador and has recently returned to Sunderland.

I get along better with Stefan. I’m frequently compared to perfect Saira. I’m always found lacking.

Describe your home:

Sunderland is a medium-sized kingdom in the heart of the continent, bordered by a semi-circle of mountains on the west, north and east sides. To the south of Sunderland lies a semi-arid region and the kingdom of Tagora. The capital city is Kasdod where King Vilipp’s enemy, Anwar resides.

Karfin is Sunderland’s capital, a city set into a white mountain where valuable gems are mined. The village in front of the castle is surrounded by a tall outer wall. The Alpin river weaves in front of the castle, providing protection from intruders. The only way into the castle is by a drawbridge.

Where are you the happiest?

I find comfort at the stables and riding my horse, Farley. He was given to me by a southern prince who found him alone in the desert as a yearling. He quickly became my project and my solace. Farley only allows me on his back. His groom’s name is Bart. I consider him my only friend.

What is your greatest fear?

I fear I’ll never gain the respect of my father. He only sees me as someone to marry off. And no one wants a headstrong girl. I also fear being locked away in a cage, trapped and unable to defend myself. I especially fear being alone with Seamus.

What are your pursuits?

I love horseback riding, archery and sparring with Stefan. I grew up hiding from my tutors, and they’ve pretty much given up educating me. I don’t have many friends at court.

Are you close to your father?

Not really. Father has never recovered from losing my mother. I pretty much lost both parents back then. Like I said, Stefan has done his best to look after me, as well as my faithful nurse, Mary.

Who is the person you admire and/or despise the most?

I admire my brother Stefan. He’s funny, caring and loyal. He’ll make a great king.

I despise Seamus, my father’s advisor. He’s pretty much taken over most duties of the king and poisons me in my father’s mind.

What do you remember of your mother?

Mother was gently, kind and always held me close when I cried. She loved me very much.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Spirited, Longing, Determined


About the Author

Diane E. Samson grew up on acreage just north of Kansas City, Missouri, with horses and dogs in the backyard. She later pursued her love of words and earned a degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. After graduation she worked as a reporter, managing editor, freelance writer and in public relations. After moving around the country, she's recently returned to the Kansas City area where she lives with her husband, children and golden retriever.

She's written fiction off and on her whole life and is the author of the YA fantasy Gems of Fire series including Gems of Fire, Valley of Bones and Mountain of Flame. The series centers on a girl traveling a journey of self-discovery in a world of powerful gems, supernatural forces, epic battles and of course, handsome heroes.


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Print copies of Gems of Fire and Valley of Bones by Diane E. Samson, a $25 Amazon gift card, three gem necklaces, and bookmarks (US only)

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Read an exclusive excerpt from Replaced Parts by Stephanie Hansen

On Tour with Prism Book Tours 

Fans of YA sci-fi, I have a treat for you today! Check out this exclusive excerpt from Replaced Parts by Stephanie Hansen! Be sure to also follow the tour above. Best of luck entering the giveaway!


Replaced Parts
(Transformed Nexus #1)
By Stephanie Hansen
Science Fiction, Young Adult
Paperback, ebook & audiobook, 240 Pages
February 23, 2021 by Fire and Ice Young Adult Books

In the year 2163 a corrupt World Government controls everything on our planet and beyond.

Sixteen year-old Sierra has been so caught up in her own world of saving animal test subjects and her father’s disappearance, she hasn’t paid much attention. When she finally finds his location, she and her friend set off on a covert interplanetary mission to rescue him, she begins to see the corruption first hand.

Discovering that her father has been on the front lines secretly trying to save human test subjects inspires her to join a revolution. But she is afraid of the collateral damage of hurting the people she loves. Will she find the strength to make a deal with the mad scientist Cromwell to save not just her friends and family but everyone?



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Read an exclusive excerpt:
To make a smoke bomb all you need is potassium nitrate, sugar, water and a fuse. Programming holograph messaging to be ‘smoke screen projection only’ is much more difficult. It’s a digital version of invisible ink and completely security cam resistant. I pull up Yesha’s incoming call. The smoke allows her image to take shape and it almost feels like she’s in the room with me.

“I can’t believe you talked me into this, you little gomer.”

Yesha frequently begins conversations in the middle, no introduction or formal interrogation into my life. I think that’s why I like her.

“It didn’t take much to convince you.”

“Did you receive the package?”

I hold up the box addressed to me, Sierra, but I’ve removed the contents.

“Yep, right here, see.”

Yesha’s laugh is like a chorus of toads with hiccups. Her image vibrates on the smoke.

“That’s only the box, you drone bug!”

“I know.”

I hold up the syringes that had been inside the box.

“Be careful with those. Check the labels.”

I roll a syringe in my hands like Kitchen, one of our home bots, does with pretzel dough.

“One says healing serum, which I asked for. Why does the other say anti?”

“Backup. You always need an emergency abort mission option.”

“All right. Thanks!”

Yesha interrupts before I collapse the projection.

“Just be sure not to give the anti if you haven’t given the original serum.”


Excerpted from Replaced Parts by Stephanie Hansen, Copyright © 2021 by Stephanie Hansen. Published by Fire and Ice Young Adult Books.
 

About the Author



Stephanie Hansen is a PenCraft Award Winning Author. Her short story, Break Time, and poetry has been featured in Mind's Eye literary magazine. The Kansas Writers Association published her short story, Existing Forces, appointing her as a noted author. She has held a deep passion for writing since early childhood, but a brush with death caused her to allow it to grow. She's part of an SCBWI critique group in Lawrence, KS and two local book clubs. She attends many writers' conferences including the Writing Day Workshops, New York Pitch, Penned Con, New Letters, All Write Now, Show Me Writers Master Class, BEA, and Nebraska Writers Guild conference as well as Book Fairs and Comic-Cons. She is a member of the deaf and hard of hearing community.


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Thursday, January 28, 2021

Review of Altered Helix by Stephanie Hansen

On Tour with Prism Book Tours


It's a new type of dystopian novella! Welcome to the blog tour for Altered Helix by Stephanie Hansen. Read my review and then follow the rest of the tour for even more. Best of luck entering the great giveaway!



Altered Helix
(Altered Helix #1)
By Stephanie Hansen
Young Adult Fantasy Novella
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 96 Pages
May 19, 2020 by Hypothesis Books

I didn’t want to take the traditional path. First, I wasn’t ready for college. Second, I was going to live with my best friend, Tiff, and work at the Haunted House. Third, did I mention the hot guy Josh that works there too?

The most exciting thing about Austria’s new job, at a local haunted house, was the fact that the toughest looking people screamed the loudest. But when she meets the boy without a home, Josh, Austria's life takes intriguing and eventful turns. Up until now, Josh has managed to hang with his Street crowd, but they’re in danger, and so is Austria, the girl Josh recently fell for. The group finds themselves joining forces with previously considered enemies who also now find themselves in danger.

Deeply compassionate and full of twists, Altered Helix captures the struggle of polarized people that must work together for the greater good.


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**My thoughts**
Right off the bat, I was drawn into the story with the main character and narrator, Austria, pretty much insinuating that she was dying. And then the questions began. Why is she dying? What is going on in this world? And of course, is she actually going to get out of this?

Some of those questions were answered. I can't tell you which ones because of spoilers. But I can tell you that the setting seems to be in the relatively near future, based on some pop culture references. The federal government no longer exists and now states are fending for themselves. People are pretty much divided up into about four different groups. But I want to understand more about what got society to this point. What actually happened? I feel like I missed that part.

I have a lot of questions about Austria's father. Then again, so does she in some ways. We explore those questions together through the novel.

I admit I glazed over a little bit as they were setting up the haunted house. I know the purpose was to introduce the different groups of kids to each other and to set up Austria's psychic abilities. I will say it is an interesting way to bring a group of kids together. And I think there is more to come with what was really happening at that haunted house in later installments of the series.

And I will say that many aspects of this story do fit in with current situations in society. But to get into the parallels would be giving away too much of the story. It did get my brain churning at some points.

I did find this story interesting. I will warn readers that if you want resolution in one installment before moving on to the next or are adverse to cliffhangers, don't start this one. It does end with a lot of questions and a cliffhanger. You're not going to feel satiated without continuing on. I may do so to find out what happens.

I received a requested review copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.



Other Books in the Series

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About the Author


Stephanie Hansen is a PenCraft Award Winning Author. Her short story, Break Time, and poetry has been featured in Mind's Eye literary magazine. The Kansas Writers Association published her short story, Existing Forces, appointing her as a noted author. She has held a deep passion for writing since early childhood, but a brush with death caused her to allow it to grow. She's part of an SCBWI critique group in Lawrence, KS and two local book clubs. She attends many writers' conferences including the Writing Day Workshops, New York Pitch, Penned Con, New Letters, All Write Now, Show Me Writers Master Class, BEA, and Nebraska Writers Guild conference as well as Book Fairs and Comic-Cons. She is a member of the deaf and hard of hearing community.

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One winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card and a signed paperback of Altered Helix (US only)

Ends February 3, 2020

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