Showing posts with label sister. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sister. Show all posts

Saturday, May 16, 2020

Book Review - The Third Mrs. Durst by Ann Aguirre

Photo Credit - Amazon

Marlena Durst lives and survives her husband's shadow. He controls her every move and every decision she can make. He decides what she will wear, where she can go, who she can talk too, and even what she can eat. If Marlena disobeys his command, she has to pay the dire consequences. In their marriage, he holds all the power.

On the outside, it may look that Michael is a doting husband and Marlena is living the fairy tale life. However, Marlena has traded her freedom and safety for a gilded prison. As the days go by, it seems the only way to escape is by death.

I usually love reading revenge thrillers as they often have a few bombshells. However, this book had almost zero bombshells and most were predictable or barely worth a yawn. I didn't even care for any of the characters. I understood why Marlena did what she did but, I am not sure if I agreed with some of her plans. I did wish we did understand a bit more of Michael as a character. I didn't like that the book seemed to have a lot of violence for just a shock factor. While I am not a fan of this novel, I will still be on the lookout for other books by the author.

**Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

Book Review - The Winter Sister by Megan Collins

Photo Credit - Amazon


Sixteen years ago, Persephone went out with her boyfriend, Ben and never came home again. she is forbidden to see Ben and has kept her relationship a secret with him. She went missing for three days before her body was discovered but, her case has remained unsolved.

Sylvie, Persephone's younger sister, returns home to care for her mother, Annie as she undergoes treatment for cancer. Annie and Sylvie used to have a close bond but, after Persephone's death, the pair's relationship became strained. When Sylvie returns to take care of Annie, their reunion is filled with silence.

When taking her mother to the cancer center for treatment, she runs into Ben who works as a nurse at the cancer center. Sylvie always believed that Ben was responsible for Persephone's death. Sylvie is always weighed down by her guilt over the night Persephone went missing. As Sylvie tries to help her mom and navigate her relationship with her mother, she begins to uncover secrets. Will she discover who killed her sister?

I enjoyed the first part of the book but, towards the ending, the book became very predictable.  I didn't enjoy any of the characters but, I did like the character dynamics. I was expecting a lot more from this novel and I was disappointed I was able to guess every twist. There were a few things I wish we had more details on.

 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Book Review - The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray

Photo Credit - Amazon

 The Butler family has been put through their fair share of trials but, when a family secret is exposed, the entire family is sent reeling. Althea is the oldest sister and mother figure to her siblings since their mother passed away. Althea is known for her strong will and her siblings both appreciate and fear her. However, the family is stunned when Althea and her husband, Proctor is arrested for committing fraud. Their family goes from being well-respected icons in the community to being treated as public enemy number one. 

Her sisters, Viola and Lillian, are still trying to come to terms with the scandal. They have to step in and help care for Althea's two teenage daughters. Will the Butler family be able to come to terms with Althea's crimes and begin to heal?

I thought this novel was going to be filled with drama and dramatic twists. Instead, it felt like a cozy read where nothing happened. Page after page, I felt like the story kept dragging with little to add to the story other than Althea is in prison, her daughters miss their family, and the sisters have no idea how to manage the situation. I wish the author spent more time explaining their crimes and their motivation behind it.


 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Book Review - Estranged by Ethan M. Aldridge



Photo Credit - Amazon

Changeling Edmund and the Human Childe were swapped at birth. Edmund lives in secret among the humans in the World Above. He keeps his powers a secret from his parents and older sister, Alexis. Childe lives in the World Below among the changelings. In the World Below, being a human makes him a curiosity in the royal palace. When a dark force descends on the palace and an evil sorceress Hawthorne takes the throne, Edmund and the Child will have to work together to stop her.

The book had a very basic storyline of two "brothers" fighting for their family. The graphic novel had themes of friendship, family, and loyalty weaved throughout the book. I found it to be a fun read and a good starting point of the next adventure of Edmund and the Childe. I wasn't fond of the washed-out artwork but, it started growing on me. I can't wait for the next book in the series.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Book Review - Estranged #2: The Changeling King by Ethan M. Aldridge + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

Changeling Edmund Carter resumed his rightful role as Cinder, king of the World Below after spending years pretending to be human. However, not all of the underworld inhabitants are happy about his return to the throne. Ed is still adjusting to his new human life in the World Above. His birth parents are kind and accepting of him but, he misses his sense of purpose as a knight.

When a new threat threatens the lives of everyone in the World Below, Cinder must rely on his friends and family to assist him. However, Cinder discovers a dark secret at the end of their journey. Will Cinder be able to protect his family and kingdom against all odds?

The graphic novel was illustrated in beautiful watercolor paintings. I enjoyed the first book in the series and the second one didn't disappoint. We got to see the characters learn about themselves and how they fit in with their world. They also learn the importance of friends and family is not only people who are related by blood. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

 

 




Series: Estranged (Book 2)
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (October 1, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 006265389X
ISBN-13: 978-0062653895


Praise for ESTRANGED Series

“A splendid tale of faery magic and adventurous siblings, all told in gorgeously rendered watercolor panels: this is exactly my kind of thing.” —Ben Hatke, author and illustrator of the New York Times bestselling Zita the Spacegirl trilogy

“It’s got dragons. It’s got drama. It’s got depth. And it’s got me impatiently awaiting Ethan M. Aldridge’s next eye-popping adventure.” —Tim Federle, award-winning author of Better Nate Than Ever and Five, Six, Seven, Nate!

“A compelling story about finding identity in a world where magic dangers lurk just around the corner. I loved Estranged!” —Molly Ostertag, author-illustrator of The Witch Boy

“As richly imagined in the full-color illustrations, the worldbuilding is both accessible and as familiar as those genre stalwarts… this should easily resonate with preteen and teen fans of both Holly Black and Neil Gaiman.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Worthy of inclusion in any fantasy collection.” —School Library Journal

“[F]un, daring, and dark...with themes and art that fall into the realm of Neil Gaiman, Michael Ende, and Jim Henson. Coupled with the beautifully toned watercolor art, the interdependence of and tension between the two protagonists makes this book stand out.” —Publishers Weekly

“The deliciously captivating start to this adventure series will leave readers hungry for more.” —Booklist


Enter a world of faerie magic and epic adventure in this spellbinding sequel to Estranged—a rich fantasy graphic novel perfect for fans of Amulet.

After years of pretending to be human, the changeling Edmund Carter has assumed his rightful role as Cinder, king of the World Below. But not everyone at the royal palace is happy about his return.

Meanwhile, Ed is adjusting to human life in the World Above. His birth family treats him with a kindness he never knew growing up in the Fay court, but Ed misses the sense of purpose he had as a knight.

When a mysterious new threat emerges in the World Below, Cinder must call on Ed and their older sister, Alexis, for help. But nothing can prepare them for the family secret that awaits at the end of their perilous quest.

With over two hundred pages of gorgeous watercolor paintings, The Changeling King invites readers on an epic journey through a magical world—one they will not soon forget.

You can purchase The Changeling King at the following Retailers:
   https://amzn.to/2RBEeVP     

Photo Content from Ethan M. Aldridge 

Ethan M. Aldridge is a bestselling author and illustrator. He is the creator of the fantasy graphic novel ESTRANGED (a Junior Library Guild selection, Indie Bestseller, and YALSA Great Graphic Novel For Teens), and it's follow up THE CHANGELING KING (coming fall 2019).

Ethan was raised in a small town in Utah. Growing up, Ethan’s favorite things to draw were monsters and whatever dinosaur he liked that week. He now does more or less the same thing for a living. Ethan lives in New York City with his husband, Matthew, and their dog, Kitsune.

Ethan has had the pleasure to create work for HarperCollins Publishers, Penguin Random House, and EA Games.

        
WEEK ONE - REVIEWS
DECEMBER 9th MONDAY Insane About Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 10th TUESDAY Nay's Pink Bookshelf REVIEW
DECEMBER 11th WEDNESDAY JeanBookNerd PODCAST
DECEMBER 11th WEDNESDAY Wonder Struck REVIEW
DECEMBER 12th THURSDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
DECEMBER 13th FRIDAY Two Points of Interest REVIEW 


WEEK TWO - REVIEW & CREATIVE INSTAGRAM PICTURE
DECEMBER 16th MONDAY Casia's Corner REVIEW
DECEMBER 17th TUESDAY BookHounds YA REVIEW
DECEMBER 18th WEDNESDAY Gwendalyn's Books REVIEW
DECEMBER 19th THURSDAY Life Within The Pages REVIEW
DECEMBER 20th FRIDAY For The Love of Fictional Worlds REVIEW


*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*
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Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Book Review - The Dating Charade by Melissa Ferguson + Giveaway



Photo Credit - Amazon

Cassie Everson had so many bad dates that she became an expert at escaping them. She has a plan that allows her to escape her date easily. After years of meeting men who try to woo her with the wrong intentions, Cassie is ready to give up hope on having a husband and children.

Firefighter Jett Bentley is content being alone but, when Cassie's online dating profile catches his eye, he remembers her from their high school days. Cassie Everson was the popular girl that Jett had a crush on for years. Hoping to reconnect, Jett sends Cassie a message and invites her on a first date.

After a series of events, Cassie and Jett go on their first date. Surprisingly, they both have a great time and can't wait to see each other. However, fate drops three children on each of them to take care of. They both decide to do the mature thing and hide the kids from each other while they sort out their feelings for each other. Will Jett and Cassie be able to work out their feelings for each other?

The novel was a fun and cute read. I like that even though Cassie was jaded, she still tried to open up her heart to love. I felt like there could have been a bit more character development between the two characters. The novel billed itself as a romantic comedy but, it felt more like a novel about two separate people adopting children and learning to care about others than themselves. Overall, I like the idea of family being people who you choose and not only the ones you are born into.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**



On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Dating Charade
By Melissa Ferguson
Contemporary Romance, Christian
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 336 Pages
December 3rd 2019 by Thomas Nelson

Just when you think you’ve met your match . . . the charade begins.

Cassie Everson is an expert at escaping bad first dates. And, after years of meeting, greeting, and running from the men who try to woo her, Cassie is almost ready to retire her hopes for a husband—and children—altogether.

But fate has other plans, and Cassie’s online dating profile catches the eye of firefighter Jett Bentley. In Jett’s memory, Cassie Everson is the unreachable girl-of-legend from their high school days. Nervously, he messages her, setting off a chain of events that forces a reluctant Cassie back into the dating game.

No one is more surprised than Cassie when her first date with Jett is a knockout. But when they both go home and find three children dropped in their laps—each—they independently decide to do the right and mature thing: hide the kids from each other while sorting it all out. What could go wrong?

Melissa Ferguson’s hilarious and warmhearted debut reminds us that love can come in very small packages—and that sometimes our best-laid plans aren’t nearly as rewarding and fun as the surprises that come our way.

(Affiliate links included.)

About the Author


Melissa Ferguson is an adjunct professor for Bible and religion at King University. She lives in the charming town of Bristol, Tennessee, with her husband, twin toddlers, and baby girl. She used to have hobbies like running and backpacking the Appalachian Trail outside her door. Now her hobbies include admiring the Appalachian Trail out her minivan window while singing "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" en route to the library.


Tour Schedule



Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Book Review - The Stranger Inside by Laura Benedict

Photo Credit - Amazon

Kimber Hannon comes home from vacation to find out someone is living in her house. She has no idea who this stranger is but, he tells the police that he has permission to live there. He even has the paperwork to prove that belongs in her home. However, Kimber knows that she didn't invite this stranger into her home. 

The stranger knows secrets from Kimber's past and wants everyone to know Kimber's secrets. Kimber is afraid if the truth is revealed that she will lose everything she worked for. Kimber realizes that the stranger doesn't just want her house but, everything she has. Will Kimber be able to figure out who the stranger is?

The novel has an interesting premise and I was very excited to read it. For a stranger to take over someone's home; that is very twisted and intimate. However, while I like the idea of the novel, I felt like the story progressed very slowly. And, I honestly hated Kimber as a person. I found myself hoping that she suffers more than she did. I feel like she is the type of person who is self-centered and only cares about herself but, judges others on their actions.  After reading about Kimber's history and personality, I was surprised there weren't more people who wanted to see her suffer.


 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Monday, September 23, 2019

Book Review - Cilka's Journey by Heather Morris

Photo Credit - Amazon

Sixteen-year-old Cilka is taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp in 1942. There a commandant is taken by her beauty and she is separated from the other women prisoners.  Cilka quickly realizes that any bit of power she has will help her survive. When the war is over, Cilka is charged as a collaborator for sleeping with the enemy. As a result, she is taken to a Siberian prison camp. 

In Siberia, Cilka faces similar challenges and does her best to survive including avoiding the unwanted attention of guards. Cilka crosses path with a kind female doctor who takes Cilka under her wing. Cilka begins to help tend to the ill while, avoiding her own brutal living conditions. As Cilka grows into her role, she discovers her own inner strength to help others while opening up herself to love.

The novel was an interesting read but, I felt like it missing something. What that something is, I am not sure. Cilka's story of enduring and surviving harsh and brutal conditions is heart numbing.  I feel like we were just given a very small glimpse into her extraordinary life. I feel like I would have enjoyed the novel more if we knew more about Cilka. Overall, the novel was a good read for fans of the author.




 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Saturday, August 31, 2019

Book Review - Rules For Vanishing Rules For Vanishing by Kate Alice Marshall

Photo Source - Amazon

Once a year, a magical road appears in the middle of the forest. Near the end of the road, the ghost of Lucy Gallow is waiting for new travelers. The game isn't for the faint of heart as losing can cost you everything. 

One year ago, Sara's sister, Becca disappeared. Sara knows that Becca went to find the ghost of Lucy Gallows. However, Becca is trapped on the road and unable to return to back to Briar Glen. Nobody believes that the tale of Lucy is real. However, Sara knows it's real and she is going to prove it.

Sara gathers her friends in the woods to search for Becca when the road appears in front of them. All they have to do is walk down the path. However, they soon learn that the path is filled with mysterious things and many of them are not from this world. They learn that following the path means following its rules and there will fatal consequences for anyone who breaks them. Will Sara be able to pay the toll necessary to find her sister?

The novel was an interesting and engrossing read. I like included "transcripts" of text messages and voicemails. However, I did find portions of the book confusing and the ending left me with a lot of questions. I am hoping that there is a sequel or this is made into a movie because it was a really interesting story!


  **Disclosure - I received a free unedited copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Book Review - My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Photo Credit - Amazon


Korede loves her sister but, is also jealous of her sister, Ayoola. Ayoola is everything Korede isn't. She is beautiful and her mother's favorite child. However, Ayoola might be a serial killer. Ayoola relies on Korede for her practical skills such as cleaning up the blood, knowing where to ditch the body, and acceptable social behaviors for someone who is "mourning her missing" boyfriend. Korede is in love with a handsome doctor at her hospital. She dreams of the day when he will notice her. However, when he asks Korede for Ayoola's phone number, Korede must decide how far she is willing to go to protect her sister.

The novel was a fun and interesting read. I like how different Korede and Ayoola were but, they very loyal to each other. However, I was disappointed by how the novel ended. It felt like it ended abruptly and it left me with more questions than answers. The novel was a quick and entertaining read during a long train ride but, I wished the ending was better.



 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Friday, August 16, 2019

Book Review - The Missing Years by Lexie Elliott


Photo Credit - Amazon
Ailsa Calder's mother recently willed her an old Scottish manor. However, only half of the house belongs to her. The other half belongs to her father who disappeared twenty-seven years ago with diamonds. Ailsa is torn between leaving her life in London behind and returning to her childhood home. She returns to get the house in order before selling and asks her half-sister to join her.

While spending time at the Manse, Ailsa feels claustrophobic and can't sleep. She feels drained and tired. She senses someone is watching her and especially when she hears stories about the manor's past. Then one night an intruder shows up causing Ailsa to fear what secrets the Manse might be hiding. Will Ailsa be able to move on from her father's disappearance?

I have read the "French Girl" and liked it but, this novel left me baffled. While the "villain" was unexpected, I felt disappointed. The novel dragged on and on only for a mediocre ending. I was left with more questions than answers. This novel is an easy pass and not worth even a second glance.


 **Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Book Review - Falling for Her Bodyguard by Amy Vastine + Giveaway



Photo Credit - Amazon

Kelly Bonner keeps receiving gifts from a mysterious sender. Even when things escalate, Kelly isn't sure she needs a bodyguard, especially one like Detective Donovan Walsh. Detective Donovan Walsh is intense and has a tough-guy exterior. However, as Kelly spends more time with Donovan, she realizes there is more to him beneath his tough-guy appearance.  Donovan is struggling with raising his sister's children by himself. Kelly can see herself falling in love with him but, that would mean breaking her rule of not dating cops. Will Kelly and Donovan be able to let go of their rules to find happiness?

The novel was a fun and interesting read. The "stalker portion" of the story wasn't the main pull of the novel but, it was a surprise at the end.  Surprisingly, I didn't mind that the romance took center stage because both characters were lovable and realistic.  I thought the novel was a cute and romantic read.
  **Disclosure - I received a free  copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**



On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Falling for Her Bodyguard
(Grace Note Records #4)
By Amy Vastine
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She needs his protection…

But can he protect his heart?

Radio personality Kelly Bonner isn’t convinced she needs a bodyguard, especially one as intensely good-looking as Detective Donovan Walsh. Yet beneath Donovan’s tough-guy facade is a man struggling to raise his sister’s children. A man Kelly could care about…if he’d let her. Now she’ll have to find a way to convince her big, bad bodyguard that his family—and his heart—are safe in her hands.


Other Books in the Series

Catch a Fallen Star

About the Author


Amy Vastine has been plotting stories in her head for as long as she can remember. An eternal optimist, she studied social work, hoping to teach others how to find their silver lining. Now, she enjoys creating happily ever afters for all to read. Amy lives outside Chicago with her high school sweetheart husband, three teenagers who keep her on her toes, and their two sweet but mischievous pups.


Tour Schedule


Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a Reading is my Superpower custom-made sign, an autographed copy of The Girl He Used to Love and a bookmark (if winner is outside US then they would receive an ebook and egift card only)

Ends August 21, 2019


Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Book Review - Queen of the Sea by Dylan Meconis + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon


Queen Eleanor of Albion is exiled to a small coastal island when her sister seizes the throne from her. The only inhabitants of the islands are nuns of a convent who spend their days peacefully trying to survive. However, the island is home to a mysterious orphan named Margaret. Margaret's life is turned upside down when the new visitor arrives.

As time passes, Eleanor and Margaret grow closer until Margaret finds out about the true purpose of the island and the truth of her own past. When Eleanor's safety is threatened, Margaret is faced with helping Eleanor or protecting herself. Will Margaret help Eleanor if it means risking her own life?

The beautifully drawn novel is a fictionalized history of  Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary. I found the book to be an entertaining read but, I was a bit disappointed that the novel left off on a cliffhanger. I felt that the book had a lot of filler and could have fit more of the story. However, I am looking forward to reading the continuation of the series.


 **Disclosure - I received a free  copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**



Age Range: 10 - 14 years
Grade Level: 5 - 9
Hardcover: 400 pages
Publisher: Walker Books US (June 25, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1536204986
ISBN-13: 978-1536204988


Praise for QUEEN OF THE SEA

The art, reminiscent of Raina Telgemeier’s style, creates levity during perilous situations. The book is dense with dialogue, often feeling more like a work of prose than a graphic novel. As a result, this complex work will be more accessible to those familiar with graphic novels…Certain to charm sophisticated graphic novel devotees. —School Library Journal (starred review)

Meconis offers an atmospheric alternate history inspired by the childhood and succession of Queen Elizabeth I in this quietly ambitious graphic novel…Art in soft, earthy colors brings this singular story to life in styles ranging from simple line drawings to elaborately styled text illuminations. The island world is richly developed, both in its physical particulars and its close-knit community (fascinating digressions into topics such as convent time, hand gestures used at table, and chess and embroidery flesh out daily life), and Margaret proves herself an endearing heroine with a strong voice full of humor and wonder. Her perspective transforms a storm-wracked rock into a vibrant world of hidden treasures. —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Meconis’ humor and storytelling gifts here wed seamlessly with her evocative pen-and-ink and gouache illustrations, which are rendered in warm earth and sea tones and brim with movement, expressively capturing even Margaret’s interior monologues. With its compelling, complex characters and intrigue-laden plot, this will have readers hoping it’s only the first of many adventures for Meconis’ savvy heroine. —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Weaving faith, love, statecraft, and self-discovery into a tale of palace intrigue relocated to the halls of a convent on a remote island at sea, Dylan Meconis uses the trappings of the history we know to create a high-stakes adventure in an alternate past that feels so detailed and so familiar, you’ll find yourself wondering why you never read about it in school. This beautiful book swept me away from the first page.” —Kate Milford, author of the Greenglass House series

“Dylan Meconis is at the absolute top of her game. A gorgeously rendered, lovingly realized alternate history, full of personal revelations in the midst of political intrigue. A tale of growing up, and of understanding that the world is larger and stranger than it once seemed. (Plus it has a Terrible Recipe for Terrible Gruel.)” —Ben Hatke, author-illustrator of the Zita the Spacegirl series

“This is the book I was always trying to get my hands on in high school that never seemed to materialize. An adventure to lose yourself in, with an attention to historical detail to please the nerdiest among us. I fell easily and completely into this world and its characters, knowing I was safe in Dylan Meconis’s hands, and I’m really excited for more people to find out what I’ve known for a long time—that she is one of a kind.” —Kate Beaton, author-illustrator of Hark! A Vagrant

Cult graphic novelist Dylan Meconis offers a rich reimagining of history in this hybrid novel loosely based on the exile of Queen Elizabeth I by her sister, Queen Mary.

When her sister seizes the throne, Queen Eleanor of Albion is banished to a tiny island off the coast of her kingdom, where the nuns of the convent spend their days peacefully praying, sewing, and gardening. But the island is also home to Margaret, a mysterious young orphan girl whose life is upturned when the cold, regal stranger arrives. As Margaret grows closer to Eleanor, she grapples with the revelation of the island’s sinister true purpose as well as the truth of her own past. When Eleanor’s life is threatened, Margaret is faced with a perilous choice between helping Eleanor and protecting herself.

You can purchase Queen of the Sea at the following Retailers:
        

Photo Content from Dylan Meconis

I’ve been writing and illustrating my own stories since the first grade, and I’ve been making comic books since middle school (no, really! Seventh grade was a tough year for me socially, so I had a lot of time to draw). I started my first book-length comic (graphic novel) in high school.

Unlike a lot of people who become professional artists and authors, I didn’t go to art school or a creative writing program in college. Instead, I mostly studied history, literature, philosophy, and French in the College of Letters at Wesleyan University. This means I have a brain full of weird facts, old books, strange art, and the extremely useful ability to read The Tales of Canterbury in the original Middle English. Except for the Middle English bit, it’s all come in very handy for writing and drawing historical fiction and fantasy.

I first started to get paid for making comics when I was still in college, when my first graphic novel was published online. After college, I worked as a graphic designer and visual communications consultant (which means “person who helps teach adults complicated stuff in cool new ways using pictures”). I’ve worked with Fortune 500 companies, global charities, technology companies, libraries, and a lot of other interesting organizations. I’ve made illustrations, animations, information graphics and cool presentations, explaining everything from how microchips work to the ways that clean drinking water can help communities in the third world.

For the last ten years, though, I mostly work as a writer, comic book creator and illustrator! Sometimes I make books totally by myself, and sometimes I get to team up with other writers or artists. It can be lots of fun, but it can also be very hard work. Luckily, I never get tired of making new stories.


        
WEEK ONE
JUNE 24th MONDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW
JUNE 25th TUESDAY A Dream Within A Dream TENS LIST
JUNE 26th WEDNESDAY BookHounds YA REVIEW & INTERVIEW 
JUNE 26th WEDNESDAY Triquetra Reviews EXCERPT
JUNE 28th THURSDAY Cover2CoverBlog REVIEW
JUNE 27th THURSDAY Wishful Endings FILL IN THE BLANKS
JUNE 28th THURSDAY TTC Books and More TENS LIST
JUNE 29th FRIDAY Movies, Shows, & Books EXCERPT 

WEEK TWO
JULY 1st MONDAY Nay's Pink Bookshelf REVIEW
JULY 2nd TUESDAY Book Queen Reviews REVIEW 
JULY 3rd WEDNESDAY Sabrina's Paranormal Palace REVIEW
JULY 3rd WEDNESDAY Two Points of Interest REVIEW
JULY 4th THURSDAY Wonder Struck REVIEW
JULY 4th THURSDAY Such a Novel Idea REVIEW & PLAYLIST
JULY 5th FRIDAY Bri's Book Nook REVIEW
JULY 5th FRIDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*
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