Jill's Book Blog

Blog Tour Review: Brewed with Love

Title: Brewed with Love
Author: Shelly Page
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery
Publisher: Joy Revolution
Source: Publisher
Format: Ebook
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

A cozy, contemporary romantasy about a teen witch who wants to keep her family’s apothecary from falling to the competition but can only do so with assistance from her first crush.

Plant witch, Sage Bishop, is determined to run her family’s old apothecary one day. She spends her time trying to invent the perfect tonic to put Bishop Brews on the map. And she’s going to need one quickly, too, because their biggest competitor is drawing away customers.

Short-staffed, her nana hires Ximena Reyes, Sage’s ex-best friend and first crush, who’s more of an unwelcome distraction than anything. Ximena has always dreamed of leaving their small town behind while Sage wants to tend to her roots. And during one of their first shifts together, someone breaks into Bishop Brews, stealing several tonics, including the one Sage has been working tirelessly on, the same one that wipes a councilmember’s kid’s memory.

To avoid being shut down by the sheriff, Sage decides to investigate. If so much wasn’t at stake, she’d do it alone. But with her grandmother’s legacy and her future on the line, she must partner with her ever smug and unfairly pretty new coworker. As Sage begins to fall for Ximena (again), she’ll have to decide if the comfort of the familiar is worth missing out on a chance at real happiness.

Review:

Brewed with Love is a sweet YA story. This story had romance and mystery. Sage was a witch, and their town was full of magic. There was another kind of supernatural condition in the story, and I would have loved to see that one explored more. I think there’s potential for more stories set in this world!

Brewed with Love is a cute YA romance!

Thank you Penguin Teen Canada, Joy Revolution, and Publicity Prose for providing a copy of this book!

Content warnings: death of parents (off page), poisoning, memory loss

Author Bio:

Shelly Page is a young adult contemporary fantasy romance and horror writer. By day, she’s a practicing attorney representing homeless LGBTQ+ youth. By night, she’s writing stories about love, magic, and mystery—all with the hope of providing genuine representation for queer readers of color. Shelly lives in Los Angeles with her dog, Toby, and a collection of half-dead plants. Brewed With Love is her debut novel. She can be found online at shellypage.com or @shelly_p_writes.

Giveaway:

5 winners will receive a finished copy of Brewed With Love by Shelly Page– We will select the winners and ship directly
The giveaway starts at 12:01am ET on January 13th and ends January 26th at 11:59pm ET- Rafflecopter giveaway link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/74cc7a8d5/?

Have you read Brewed with Love? What did you think of it?

Review: The Princess in Black and the Kitty Catastrophe

Title: The Princess in Black and the Kitty Catastrophe
Author: Shannon Hale, Dean Hale, LeUyen Pham (illustrator)
Genre: Children’s, Fantasy
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Source: Publisher
Format: Hardcover
Release Date: September 3, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

The Princess in Black may know how to handle all kinds of monsters, but a kitten set on destruction? Me-OW!

Duchess Wigtower had heard that pets are fun, but all her kitten has gotten her is nine lives’ worth of problems. Eeeeek! It’s time for someone else to deal with this catastrophe. Princess Magnolia is thrilled when a kitten lands on her doorstep, but just as she’s about to play with Plumpkins (or should it be Hugmaster Floof?) the monster alarm goes off. When Princess Magnolia returns to her castle, her furry companion has carved up the wallpaper! In fact, each time Princess Magnolia leaves to help the Goat Avenger fight a very grouchy monster, her feline friend wreaks havoc. Has the Princess in Black finally met her match? Ten years after she first donned her cape, the Princess in Black returns for a purrfectly hilarious entry to the New York Times best-selling series.

Review:

This is such a cute book in The Princess in Black series! Princess Magnolia’s grumpy neighbour gives her the cat because he is so destructive. Magnolia must figure out how to get this new kitten to behave, while also defeating a monster in the village. I loved the way her problem with the kitten and the monster were related. The illustrations were adorable too!

The Princess in Black and the Kitty Catastrophe is a cute children’s book!

Thank you Candlewick Press for sending me a copy of this book!

Have you read The Princess in Black and the Kitty Catastrophe? What did you think of it?

Review: The Girl of Many Crowns

Title: The Girl of Many Crowns
Author: D.H. Morris
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: New Classics Publishing
Source: iRead Book Tours
Format: Ebook
Release Date: September 2, 2024
Rating: ★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

“The Girl of Many Crowns” is the true and inspiring story of Judith, the first princess of France, who is a pawn in a complex political game of chess as her father, King Charles, tries to hold on to his kingdom. King Charles, grandson of Emperor Charlemagne, is beset on every side by Vikings, rebel lords, and greedy neighboring monarchs. He marries 12-year-old Judith to Aethelwulf, the aging King of Wessex, for political advantage. When she is widowed less than two years later, he arranges a second marriage for her. But, when Judith refuses to marry a third time at her father’s command, King Charles imprisons her in one of his palaces.

Baldwin Iron Arm is a powerful knight from Flanders who pledges loyalty to King Charles and his family. As the companion of Judith’s brother, Louis, he fulfills his oath by protecting King Charles’ family from Vikings, rebel lords, wars, and assassination plots. He is conflicted when he must choose between obeying the king and rescuing his daughter Judith from her imprisonment.

Review:

The Girl of Many Crowns is historical fiction based on real people in 9th century Europe. Princess Judith was used as a political pawn to marry an old King, then his son after she became a widow, before she was able to exert her own independence. This was a detailed historical account with an intriguing plot!

The Girl of Many Crowns is a great read for fans of European Royalty!

Thank you iRead Book Tours for providing a copy of this book for a paid campaign!

Content warnings: sexual assault (off page), death, death of baby, animal death

Have you read The Girl of Many Crowns? What did you think of it?

Review: The Boy and the Man

Title: The Boy and the Man
Author: Terence Ang
Genre: Graphic Novel, Memoir
Publisher: Independently published
Source: Bookinfluencers.com
Format: Ebook
Release Date: September 2, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

From the harrowing pages of A Cry in the Dark comes The Boy & The Man, a poignant graphic novel that delves deep into the extraordinary journey of Terence Ang. Once a dynamic leader at the pinnacle of his career, Terence’s life is abruptly derailed by a life-altering stroke. Stripped of his former abilities, he faces the daunting task of relearning basic skills and reclaiming his life from the shadows of despair.

As Terence grapples with his new reality, his mind conjures a vivid hallucination— a new “team” at his workplace. Each member, flawed yet eager, becomes a mirror of his own struggles. Terence feels an inexplicable drive to guide them, to push them towards success. Through their fumbles, failures, and eventual victories, Terence begins to see these figures for what they truly manifestations of his fears, his doubts, and his unyielding determination to move forward.

Every victory, no matter how small, brings Terence closer to reclaiming his voice, his strength, and his identity. The vulnerable boy within him—the one who trembles in the face of fear—begins to walk hand in hand with the man he is becoming. Together, they navigate this treacherous path, forging a way out of the darkness.

The Boy & The Man is not just a tale of survival; it is a raw, unflinching testament to the indomitable human spirit. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the incredible strength that lies within each of us. For anyone who has ever felt broken, lost, or on the brink of giving up, this novel serves as a powerful even in the face of unimaginable challenges, you can find your way back. You can rewrite your story.

Review:

The Boy and the Man is a powerful graphic novel memoir about survival and resilience. After his stroke in 2020, Terrence Ang had to relearn how to use his limbs. He didn’t give up, and this made him a stronger person. I loved how accessible this graphic novel is to more readers, especially younger readers. Terrence has turned his life around to become a successful author and an advocate for stroke survivors.

The Boy and the Man is a powerful graphic novel memoir!

Thank you Bookinfluencers.com for providing a copy of this book as part of a paid campaign!

Have you read The Boy and the Man? What did you think of it?

Review: Andarta: Book 1 (The Ascending Veil)

Title: Andarta: Book 1 (The Ascending Veil)
Author: Leanne Staback, Sloane Kennedy
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Page Turner Books Inc.
Source: Bookinfluencers.com
Format: Ebook
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

When legends awake, darkness trembles.

In the pulsing heart of Seraphim City, twins Emilia and Clara Benning walk a path veiled in the shadows of myth. Raised on tales of their fierce Viking ancestors, they are unaware of the destiny awaiting them. As the modern world grinds on, unseeing, the sisters draw closer to a revelation that will ignite the ancient power slumbering within their blood.

The cruel blight of human trafficking festers in the city’s underbelly, claiming innocent lives in a relentless grip. It is a plague that yearns for a cure-a cure that only Emilia and Clara, human hosts to ancient deities Andarta and Eir – dare to provide. With the unwavering strength of the gods and the courage of warriors, they stand between the darkness and the light.

But the battle for justice demands a terrible price. In the chaos of a harrowing rescue, Clara is lost, and Emilia’s grief ignites a fury that heralds her awakening. The true powers of Andarta flare to life, a beacon of rage and retribution. As Emilia becomes the embodiment of a legend, survival hinges on her ability to harness this newfound might and confront the demons that threaten to consume her.

In the midst of battle, Andarta, her steadfast sidekick Ty, and a legion of spectral Viking forebearers converge for an epic showdown. Together, they must dismantle a vile web spun by the most depraved of minds, their every move haunted by the chilling echoes of evil.

Can they break the chains of torment and rise triumphant? Or will Emilia’s fury consume all that she has come to cherish? Will the echoes of ancient valor be enough to conquer the malice that lurks in humanity’s depths? Seek the answers within the pages of Andarta, The Ascending Veil, Book 1, where the battle for souls is timeless, and the might of legends endures.

Review:

Andarta is a fantastic start to this fantasy series. It began with multiple different storylines that seemed to be very different from each other. However, they all came together in an unconventional way. I liked that it followed the twins Emilia and Clara from their childhood to young adult age. I flew through this book, and I couldn’t put it down! I’m excited to see what happens in the next book!

Andarta: Book 1 is a great first book in this fantasy series!

Thank you Bookinfluencers.com for providing a copy of this book as part of a paid campaign!

Content warnings: human trafficking, murder, gun violence

Have you read Andarta: Book 1? What did you think of it?

Happy Pub Day – January 7

Happy Pub Day to these authors!

Breath of the Dragon by Shannon Lee and Fonda Lee

Cinderella and the Beast (or Beauty and the Glass Slipper) by Kim Bussing

The Last Bookstore on Earth by Lily Braun-Arnold

The Afterdark by E. Latimer

Thank you Wednesday Books, Penguin Teen Canada, and Tundra Books for providing copies of these books!

What books are you most excited for this week?

Review: Impossible Creatures (Impossible Creatures #1)

Title: Impossible Creatures (Impossible Creatures #1)
Author: Katherine Rundell, Ashley Mackenzie
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Source: Publisher
Format: Hardcover
Release Date: September 10, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

The day Christopher saved a drowning baby griffin from a hidden lake would change his life forever. It’s the day he learned about the Archipelago, a cluster of unmapped islands where magical creatures of every kind have thrived for thousands of years—until now. And it’s the day he met Mal, a girl on the run who desperately needs his help.

Mal and Christopher embark on a wild adventure, racing from island to island, searching for someone who can explain why the magic is fading and why magical creatures are suddenly dying. They consult sphinxes, battle kraken, and negotiate with dragons. But the closer they get to the dark truth of what’s happening, the clearer it becomes: no one else can fix this. If the Archipelago is to be saved, Mal and Christopher will have to do it themselves.

Review:

Impossible Creatures is a great middle grade adventure. I loved the vivid world building. There is a bestiary in the back of the book which is so helpful to see what the creatures look like. I loved the illustrations throughout the book. It was nice to see the characters and story come to life in the illustrations. I’m so curious to see what will happen in the next book!

Impossible Creatures is a beautiful middle grade story!

Thank you Penguin Random House Canada and Tandem Collective for providing a copy of this book!

Content warnings: death of parental figure, death of animal

Have you read Impossible Creatures? What did you think of it?

Review: Sophie: Frankenstein’s Hound

Title: Sophie: Frankenstein’s Hound
Author: Brian Anderson
Genre: Graphic Novel, Children’s
Publisher: Marble Press
Source: Publisher via NetGalley
Format: Ebook
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

From the creator the much-loved webcomic, “Dog Eat Doug,” Sophie is a hilarious new graphic novel series, a sendup of family life from the perspective of one snarky dog who wants nothing more than to have everything—without ever having to share.

Life is good when you’re a dog and you have humans all to yourself. But what about when a new baby enters the picture . . . along with a couple of cats intent on taking over the world?

Full of mini adventures, pop culture spoofs, sharp jokes, adorable illustrations, and a sneaky dose of heart, Jurassic Bark and Frankenstein’s Hound are the perfect introduction to these characters and their world. Just right for the pet-obsessed among us no matter the age, while simultaneously appealing to the kids who love to giggle at Big Nate, Dog Man, Garfield, and Snoopy.

Review:

This is another adorable graphic novel about Sophie the chocolate lab and her human baby brother Doug. There were some new pets added to the family including two cats and foster dogs. The cats were hilarious. They were always plotting to take over the world. This book was even funnier than the first one.

Sophie: Frankenstein’s Hound is a funny kids graphic novel!

Thank you Marble Press for providing a digital copy of this book!

Other books in the series:

Sophie: Jurassic Bark

Have you read Sophie: Frankenstein’s Hound? What did you think of it?

Review: Sophie: Jurassic Bark

Title: Sophie: Jurassic Park
Author: Brian Anderson
Genre: Graphic Novel, Children’s
Publisher: Marble Press
Source: Publisher via NetGalley
Format: Ebook
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

From the creator the much-loved webcomic, “Dog Eat Doug,” Sophie is a hilarious new graphic novel series, a sendup of family life from the perspective of one snarky dog who wants nothing more than to have everything—without ever having to share.

Life is good when you’re a dog and you have humans all to yourself. But what about when a new baby enters the picture . . . along with a couple of cats intent on taking over the world?

Full of mini adventures, pop culture spoofs, sharp jokes, adorable illustrations, and a sneaky dose of heart, Jurassic Bark and Frankenstein’s Hound are the perfect introduction to these characters and their world. Just right for the pet-obsessed among us no matter the age, while simultaneously appealing to the kids who love to giggle at Big Nate, Dog Man, Garfield, and Snoopy.

Review:

Sophie: Jurassic Bark is such a cute kid’s graphic novel! Sophie, the chocolate Labrador, takes the baby Doug on adventures in her imagination. It reminded me of the Wishbone TV show from when I was a kid. I laughed out loud a few times while reading this one. I think kids and their parents will love this book!

Sophie: Jurassic Park is a great kid’s graphic novel!

Thank you Marble Press for providing a digital copy of this book!

Other books in the series:

Sophie: Frankenstein’s Hound

Have you read Sophie: Jurassic Bark? What did you think of it?

Review: Catwalk Style & Doggy Style

Title: Catwalk Style & Doggy Style
Author: Kitty Purrswell, Doggy McDogface
Genre: Humour
Publisher: Tales by Paws
Source: Publisher
Format: Paperback
Release Date: November 7, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★

Catwalk Style:Goodreads Synopsis:

Purr-fect greetings, fellow feline aficionados and style enthusiasts!

It’s me, Kitty Purrswell, your fabulous Editor-in-Chief at Catwalk Kitty Cat Couture ! If you’ve ever dreamt of a world where high fashion collides with the irresistible charm of our feline friends, you’re in for the treat of a lifetime. Catwalk Style is no ordinary book—it’s a full-blown feline fashion book created entirely by cats, for cats (and for the humans who are lucky enough to adore us). Each page drips with luxury, wit, and plenty of tail-swishing attitude, featuring the world’s most stylish kitties from every corner of the globe.

Inside these opulent pages, you’ll meet iconic fashionistas like Chaiya, the Siamese siren in pink; Bond, the British Shorthair who’s as suave as he is debonair; and Max, the tabby with a taste for haute couture in every shade under the sun. This magazine-style book is designed for cat lovers with a sense of humor and an eye for fashion, bringing to life the personalities, quirks, and unmatched style of our furry muses. Whether you’re a die-hard fashionista or simply a fan of feline antics, Catwalk Style is a page-turner guaranteed to keep you entertained.

Catwalk Style isn’t just a book—it’s a conversation piece, a delightful addition to any coffee table or bookshelf, and the ultimate must-have for cat lovers. Flip through it for a giggle, show it off to friends, or let it inspire your own sense of style; one thing’s for sure, this book promises endless entertainment. So get ready to step into the world of high-fashion with a purr and a pose—because with Catwalk Kitty Cat Couture , every day is a runway. Grab your copy now, and let the fabulous feline fun begin!

Doggie Style: Goodreads Synopsis:

Bow-wow, fellow dog lovers and fashionistas!

It’s me, Doggy McDogface, your Editor-in-Chief here at Doggy The Book of Classic Canine Couture! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when high fashion and dog humor collide, you’ve found the answer in this pawsome book. Doggy Style is no ordinary book—oh no! It’s a full-blown canine couture magazine written entirely by dogs, for dogs (and the humans lucky enough to share their lives with us). Every page is dripping with style, charm, and plenty of tail-wagging fun, featuring the world’s most stylish pups from all corners of the globe.

Inside, you’ll meet fashion icons like Dora the Dachshund, Felix the French Bulldog, and Gabriel the German Shepherd, all strutting their stuff on the runway in the most fabulous doggy designs. Perfect for dog lovers with a sense of humor, this magazine-style book showcases the personality and flair of our furry friends, all while giving you an inside look at the glamorous world of canine fashion. It’s a laugh-out-loud read, designed to keep you entertained whether you’re a serious fashionista or just a pup who likes a good chuckle.

Doggy Style isn’t just a book—it’s a statement piece for your coffee table or bookshelf. Trust me, this will be the centerpiece of many conversations with your guests. Whether you’re flipping through it for a giggle or showing it off to your friends, this is one book that promises endless entertainment. So, get ready to dive into the world of fashion with a bark, and remember—this book is guaranteed to bring out the fashionable pup in all of us. Grab your copy now, and let the tail-wagging begin!

Review:

These two books are beautiful coffee table books, which are written in the style of a fashion magazine. They each feature different breeds of dogs and cats, with short articles accompanying beautiful images of pets dressed up in high fashion. They both have glossy covers, like magazines. I was so thrilled to receive these two books in the mail! They would make perfect gifts for dog or cat lovers!

Doggy Style and Catwalk Style are beautiful books about dogs and cats!

Thank you Brian Witlin, Tales by Paws, and Bookinfluencers.com for providing copies of these books for a paid campaign!

Have you read Catwalk Style and Doggy Style? What did you think of it?