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[loveleighreading]

🔥Cast in Firelight❄

Hello lovelies, here is my stop for the TBR Beyond Tours blog tour. I was super excited to read this title and just as excited to share it with you. Make sure to make it all the way to the bottom of this post to find out about the Giveaway! 

Please make sure to check out the other stops on this tour by checking out this post: https://tbrandbeyondtours.com/2020/11/29/tour-schedule-cast-in-firelight-by-dana-swift/

Book: Cast in Firelight

Author: Dana Swift

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Publishing Date: January 19, 2021

Synopsis: The first book in an epic, heart-pounding fantasy duology about two royal heirs betrothed to be married, but whose loyalties are torn, and a ruthless enemy who threatens their world, perfect for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal, and Renée Ahdieh.

Adraa is the royal heir of Belwar, a talented witch on the cusp of taking her royal ceremony test, and a girl who just wants to prove her worth to her people. Jatin is the royal heir to Naupure, a competitive wizard who’s mastered all nine colors of magic, and a boy anxious to return home for the first time since he was a child.

Together, their arranged marriage will unite two of Wickery’s most powerful kingdoms. But after years of rivalry from afar, Adraa and Jatin only agree on one thing: their reunion will be anything but sweet.

Only, destiny has other plans and with the criminal underbelly of Belwar suddenly making a move for control, their paths cross…and neither realizes who the other is, adopting separate secret identities instead.

Between dodging deathly spells and keeping their true selves hidden, the pair must learn to put their trust in the other if either is to uncover the real threat. Now Wickery’s fate is in the hands of rivals..? Fiancées..? Partners..? Whatever they are, it’s complicated and bound for greatness or destruction.

My Review:  

Cast in Firelight is a whirlwind debut fantasy hate to love romance involving magic, cage fighting, masked crusaders, and rainbows. I loved it from the very first page, where two young royals who have been promised to one another meets for the first time. Anyone who has ever watched the animated Swan Princess movie can definitely picture the dynamic between these two characters (as stated by the author that The Slap, was in fact inspired by the song This is my Idea from the movie). Fast forward some years and it is time for them to meet again and make things official. But they've apparently forgotten what each other looks like, so when they meet in the street by accident they have no idea just who they are dealing with. Which leads to the mistaken/hidden identity trope that I am actually pretty fond of when it's done well. I highly enjoyed this book, especially the romance, and am going to be highly anticipating the sequel next year. Thank you to Netgalley and Delecorte Press for the free ARC provided for an honest review

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Favorite Quotes: 

Adraa: 

- I live in the center of a compass. Maybe that’s why I so fiercely want to retain my title. Being a Belwar gives me direction and purpose. Without it, what am I, really?

- “You did save me.” He sniffles. “Why?” “Ah.” I’m unable to be articulate right now, let alone answer why I value life. The simple answer—because—seems underwhelming and foolish. 

Jatin:  

- I get guards, I get loyalty, I get reverence. Never friendship.

- Is it possible to start to fall for someone when they’re fuming at you? 

Now while I loved the main characters, some of my absolute favorite quotes came from the side characters. (Trying to make them obscure as possible to avoid spoilers, so not telling you who said them or when)

- [You’re favorite color is orange?] “Yeah, the sky only turns orange when it’s at peace.” 

- “A true rani doesn’t have to have magic or a god’s blessing. A true rani just helps the people.”

- “I want to be wanted for me, not what I can do. Not what Belwar thinks I should do.”

- “Also, there is no destiny. There are only various paths and outcomes based on a collection of people’s choices.”

Book Links: 

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Book Depository | Indigo |  IndieBound  | Bookshop |

About the Author: Dana Swift started making up fantasy worlds when she was eleven years old and hasn’t stopped since. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned degrees in English and Advertising. While in college, Dana competed as a saber fencer and learned a thing or two about fighting, parrying and how it feels to fall in love with your sparring partner. She currently lives with said husband in Miami, Florida.

Author Links: Website: https://www.danaswiftbooks.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/swift_dana Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danaswiftbooks/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19510928.Dana_Swift Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danaswiftbooks

Giveaway (US Only): One person will win a finished copy of Cast in Firelight. The giveaway ends on January 25th.

Enter Here: Rafflecopter

[loveleighreading]

⏳Currently Reading⌛

What are you currently watching or reading?

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My current read that will probably end up being my first completed book of 2021, is The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.

I've made it about 70 pages in and want to try reading along with the audiobook. While I find Schwab's writing to be beautiful, it's kinda difficult for me to follow along. 🤞 the simultaneous reading will help me

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I've been carrying this chunky book around in one of my favorite book sleeves from @babymybook

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Last night I started and finished Bridgerton in a single sitting 😅 I highly recommend it if you like historical romance stories. Do be warned they are not shy with the sex scenes 😏 My mom is visiting and somehow managed to walk into the room every time they started getting busy 😅

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#theinvisiblelifeofaddielarue #booksleeve #addielarue #barnesandnoble #bookstagram #bookish #bridgerton #historicalromance #fantasy #book #netflix #currentlyreading #currentlywatching

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[loveleighreading]

🌟A Curse of Gold Blog Tour🌟

Book: A Curse of Gold

Author: Annie Sullivan

Genre: YA Fantasy Retelling

Publishing Date: September 22, 2020

Synopsis:

Curses and queens.

Pirates and kings.

Gods and magic.

This highly anticipated sequel to Annie Sullivan’s enchanting A Touch of Gold, the story of the daughter King Midas turned to gold, is the gripping crescendo to this sweeping fantasy adventure. The final saga of a cursed queen, a vengeful Greek god, and a dazzling kingdom in the balance.

After barely surviving thieving, bloodthirsty pirates and a harrowing quest at sea to retrieve her stolen treasure, Kora finds readjusting to palace life just as deadly. Kora’s people openly turn against her, threatening her overthrow as heir to the throne—a cursed queen who has angered Dionysus.

When Dionysus puts out a challenge to kill the girl with the golden touch and burn down her kingdom, it’s not just her future on the throne in danger. Kora’s life and entire kingdom are now on contract. As bold and brave as ever, Kora sets out to find Dionysus, the very person who is trying to kill her, on the mysterious disappearing island of Jipper. Kora has no other choice. If she wants to save her kingdom and have any chance at reversing her father’s curse, she will have to enter into a deadly game with Dionysus, the greatest trickster the world, or the underworld, has ever seen.

Book Links:

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42281659-a-curse-of-gold

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Curse-Gold-Blink-Annie-Sullivan/dp/0310768314

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-curse-of-gold-annie-sullivan/1134978677

Book Depository: https://www.bookdepository.com/Curse-Gold-Annie-Sullivan/9780310768319?ref=grid-view&qid=1595962158671&sr=1-2

Indigo: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/a-curse-of-gold/9780310768319-item.html?ikwid=a+curse+of+gold&ikwsec=Home&ikwidx=0#algoliaQueryId=4213fabd3081717ad6095c6dbbcadef7

About the Author:

Annie Sullivan is the author of the young adult novels A Touch of Gold, Tiger Queen, and A Curse of Gold. She lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, and she loves fairytales, everything Jane Austen, and traveling and exploring new cultures. When she’s not off on her own adventures, she’s working as the Senior Copywriter at John Wiley and Sons, Inc. publishing company, having also worked there in Editorial and Publicity roles. She loves to hear from fans, and you can reach her via the contact form on this website or on Twitter and Instagram.

Author Links:

Webiste: https://anniesullivanauthor.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/annsulliva

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annsulliva/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnnieSullivan/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4135488.Annie_Sullivan

 Tour Schedule:

https://tbrandbeyondtours.com/2020/08/07/tour-schedule-a-curse-of-gold-a-touch-of-gold-2-by-annie-sullivan/

🌟GIVEAWAY🌟

One winner will receive a finished copy of A Touch of Gold and Tiger Queen. US/CAN only. The giveaway ends on September 28th 2020.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fc15a59514/

[loveleighreading]

🌟Happy Saturday🌟 I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend! I'm actually getting this weekend off for work so being sble to sleep in has been so nice 😊 . Have you guys heard about Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar? The first thing I noticed about it was obviously this stunning @charliebowater cover, but when I saw the mention of Stardust by Neil Gaiman I knew I had to have it! . Synopsis: This gorgeously imagined YA debut blends shades of Neil Gaiman's Stardust and a breathtaking landscape of Hindu mythology into a radiant contemporary fantasy. The daughter of a star and a mortal, Sheetal is used to keeping secrets. Pretending to be "normal." But when an accidental flare of her starfire puts her human father in the hospital, Sheetal needs a full star's help to heal him. A star like her mother, who returned to the sky long ago. Sheetal's quest to save her father will take her to a celestial court of shining wonders and dark shadows, where she must take the stage as her family's champion in a competition to decide the next ruling house of the heavens--and win, or risk never returning to Earth at all. Brimming with celestial intrigue, this sparkling YA debut is perfect for fans of Roshani Chokshi and Laini Taylor. . You still have time to pre-order, release day is next week 8/11. If you want a sneek peek Tor.com released a sample of the 1st Chapter and it was sooo good!! . #QOTD: What is your favorite dish your family makes? #AOTD: My grandmother would make chicken mole specially for me because she knew it was my favorite. Hers was a bit different than traditional mole, as she used peanut butter along with the chocolate. . #starsforsheetal #stardaughter #bookstagram #preorder #stardust https://www.instagram.com/p/CDog3F5AdZ3/?igshid=8ecwmae1yoj9

[loveleighreading]

🐺Re-Reading?🐺 Good morning lovelies! Today is the release day for Midnight sun by Stephanie Meyer, so I've got to post some Twilight love. I am probably the odd man out for this but New Moon was always my favorite book, I am die-hard #TeamJacob so I love how much this book focuses on him. I should probably clarify that, I do not actually want Jacob & Bella to be together, I just want him to be happy because I love him so much. I also love his part of Breaking Dawn, but I'm not really a fan of the pairing. We will see if I still feel the same way all of these years later when I re-read it this month. . #QOTD: Speaking of Re-Reads, when you go to pick up a favorite book or series do you start at the beginning or just go to your favorite part(s)? #AOTD: I am definitely the type to go directly to my favorite parts or just read my favorite book in the series without reading the ones that come before it. . I actually did that the other day with Wolf Gone Wild by Juliette Cross. I was in the mood for cute romance fluff, without all that getting to know each other stuff, so I just jumped right into my favorite parts & it was wonderful. If you have not read this book before, I HIGHLY recommend it. I am a big Kresley Cole fan, but if you have ever read any of her books you know how domineering & alpha male her heros can be (unfortunately, many of the IAD books have not aged well imo). What Juliette has done with Wolf Gone Wild, shows that it is possible to have a PNR (Paranormal Romance) with a respectful, kind & consent conscious hero, who is still strong & badass. I absolutely loved the relationship between these characters, & am so happy with the recent shift I have noticed with Romance characters in general. I do plan to sit down & re-read it again in it's entirety before posting an actual review. That should be happening very soon since I also have an e-ARC for the sequel Don't Hex & Drive that I am dying to read. . Challenges: - #readathinphotoaug20 - Day 4 - Books you'd re-read - #snarkyreadersaug - Day 4 - Werewolf or Vampire. Werewolf 100% . . . #bookstagram #twilightreread #newmoon #wolfgonewild #stephaniemeyer https://www.instagram.com/p/CDeEGjNgExK/?igshid=19enfxo5r14ud

[loveleighreading]

📬#SaveUSPS💌 Hi loves! Hope you are all having a great start to your week. I have been having a pretty slow start, so we shall see how the rest of the week goes. . USPS is currently in danger!! Until very recently, I was unaware that USPS isn’t actually funded by the government & gains most of its revenue from First Class Mail. With the world as it is at the moment, USPS is suffering financially and has the real possibility of having to close it's doors. That would be a huge hit not only to the 500K employees, but also Americans is general, especially those in rural areas where private mail companies are not required to deliver. Here’s are some ways you can help: 1) if you’re located in the US you can text USPS to 50409. The bot will help you send a letter to your congressional representative to consider legislative action to provide relief for the USPS. 2) Buy stamps and send some snail mail to your friends! . For my part, I will be buying stamps and cards from the USPS to send to my friends and loved ones. Bookstagram friends in the US or International are also welcome to send me their mailing address of they would like a card as well. I'm planning to also buy some post cards and stickers from Redbubble and Etsy, so if you also tell me your favorite books or characters, you might get something special 😉 . Challenges: - #readathinphotoaug20 - Day 3 Bookish Pin's - This is the lovely pre-order incentive that came when I purchased Tiger Queen - #snarkyreadersaug - Day 3 Candles or fairylights - I love all of my @firenationcreations candles but I have yet to light any of them 🙈 . . . #bookgram #bookish #bookmail #postcard #usps https://www.instagram.com/p/CDdFHJcA1ib/?igshid=sxsec8tq3p9a

[loveleighreading]

💖August TBR👑 Hi my loves! I got the best surprise tonight, I have hit 1000 followers!! I feel so blessed and so excited to be meeting and interacting with so many different people, thank you to everyone of of you 🥰 I've been working on the plan for my feed for this month, and I won't swear to it but I think I might have finally found a theme for my pictures 😁 I am excited to see what this month will bring. . So for my TBR I think I have doomed myself. There are like 12 books, most of them buddy reads, Readathon prompt books and ARCs... what am I doing to myself. But I am very excited for quite a few of these this month because I am going to be taking part in #disneyathon hosted by @disneyreadathon on Instagram and Twitter. My chosen team is obviously #teambeautyandthebeast so do expect lots of BatB related posts. Disneyathon: - Belle: Don't Call the Wolf - Beast: Teen Titans: Raven - Lumiere: Fable ARC - Cogworth: As Old as Time - Chip: The Sound of Stars #BABbookclub - The House on the Cerulean Sea @anunexpectedread - Mexican Gothic Twilight Buddy Read - New Moon Book Club Pick: House of Dragons ARCs due - Never Look Back - Don't Hex & Drive - Teen Titans: Beast Boy . #qotd: What is your most anticipated read for this month? #aotd: Of course I cannot pick just 1 🙈 Fable, The House on the Cerulean Sea and Don't Hex and Drive . Challenges: - #readathinphotoaug20 - Day August TBR - #snarkyreadersaug - Day August TBR . . . . #Augusttbr #beautyandthebeast #disneyreadathon #bookgram https://www.instagram.com/p/CDX1BZsgpqQ/?igshid=lydfgaaybnkn

[loveleighreading]

READATHON ANNOUNCEMENT Hi my loves! I have way too many series that I have started but never picked back up 🙈 BUT I know I am not alone. So I decided to set up a Readathon so that we can hold ourselves and each other accountable for getting those series off our TBRs. What is #SequelsinSeptember ?: A month long reading challenge dedicated to finishing all those unfinished series currently on your TBR Prompts: - Unread sequel that has been on your TBR the longest - 5pts - Read the previous book in 2019 or before - 4pts - Read the previous book in 2020 - 3pts - Re-Read the previous book(s) - 2pts - Book in a series you have not started yet, but already own multiple books for - 1pts Bonus: - A book you already own - 1pt - More than 400pgs - 2pts - More than 800pgs - 4pts Rules: - Read as many, or as few books as you want - You can repeat prompts as many times as you like to earn more points - 1 book cannot fill multiple prompts, but can qualify for multiple bonuses - Fill out the Points Tracker in the bio each time you complete a prompt Prizes?: TBD pending participation and interest Q&A: Q: Do I need to have a set TBR? A: Nope, just read a sequel Q: Do I need to already own the sequel? A: No, but you will get bonus points if you do Q: How are points tracked for books read? A: By filling out the points tracker Readathon starts September 1st and goes through the 30th. Points will be finalized Oct 1st 11:59pm CST to allow for different times zones. Please follow the @sequels.in.september page for updates and if you are thinking about participating please comment on the first post so I can get an idea of the intrest. Also, please send any questions to that account so they do not get lost. Following @loveleighreading is not required but I am always happy to make new friends! This is the first Readathon I have hosted so if you have any ideas or suggestions I will definitely be open to them! https://www.instagram.com/p/CDUl_kmAtNJ/?igshid=4d7w05tqsopn

[loveleighreading]

🎆July Reading Wrap-Up🎆 Happy Friday Lovelies! I a lot more books this month than I realized. How did this month seem so long but go by so quickly?? . - Hunted by the Sky ARC by Tanaz Bhathena ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Would I lie to the Duke ARC by Eva Leigh ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Skyward by Brandon Sanderson ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Shielded ARC by Kaylynn Flanders ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Twilight by Stephanie Meyer ⭐⭐⭐ . It was a pretty good reading month overall. You can check my Goodreads for additional reviews I haven't posted to Instagram yet. Now to get ready for @disneyreadathon for August! . #Qotd: What was your favorite read in the month of July? #Aotd: Mine was Hunted by the Sky, I absolutely loved it! . . . #julyreadingwrapup #julyreads #Goodreads #huntedbythesky #skyward #wouldilietotheduke #Shielded #withthefireonhigh #Twilight #shadowandbone #netgalley https://www.instagram.com/p/CDTvyJigjIB/?igshid=1v45j7bak7g2p

[loveleighreading]

✴Favorite July Read✴ Hi my loves! This is my favorite book that I read for #AvengerinJuly for the book of choice prompt. The main character truly embodies Gamora in her determination, strength & compassion. . Title: Hunted by the Sky Author: Tanaz Bhathena Genre: YA Fantasy Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The sky will fall, a star will rise Ambar changed with the kings demise Her magic untouched & unknown by all Marked by the star, she'll bring his downfall" Being a girl born in the Kingdom of Ambar with a star shaped birthmark is a curse, one that Gul knows all too well. Shortly after the brutal murder of her parents at the hands of a sky warriors, she is saved by the Sisters of the Golden Lotus. While the Sisters are determined to train her in warrior magic to be able to one day fulfill the prophecy, Gul can only think of revenge. Cavas is a lowly non-magi, who works in the palace stables for a measly wage. To help pay for the medication his terminally ill father desperately needs, he has taken on a rather risky side job of selling palace secrets. The initial meeting of these two was not at all tame, their tempers & the temperatures rising with each new encounter. Cavas cannot afford to get wrapped up in her schemes, & Gul cannot afford any distractions no matter how tempting. But fate or the Goddess seems to have other plans. The mix of Indian culture blending with a fantasy world was a wonderful reading adventure for me. There were so many things I was unfamiliar with, like items of clothing or food, but at no time did I feel removed from the story for my lack of knowledge. Bhathena's explanations and descriptions made it very easy for me to imagine this world & these characters. While I loved her found family in the Sisters & the colorful world of the palace, my favorite part of the story was the romance. Gul & Cavas lit up the page from their very first meeting & you could feel the heat between their every interaction. I cannot wait to get more of them in the sequel. Thank you to @Goodreads and @macmillanusa for the ARC I received in a giveaway in exchange for an honest review. . . . #huntedbythesky #goodreads #bookreview #bookstagram (at Addison, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDS3okBAZNp/?igshid=z3bpan50nwec

[loveleighreading]

💖Release Day Review💖 Title: Would I Lie to the Duke Author: Eva Leigh Genre: Historical Romance Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jessica McGale, is the oldest daughter of a soap maker, who is doing everything that she can to keep the family business afloat after a devastating fire destroyed a majority of their farm and manufacturing abilities. Jess is a bright and determined young woman, so she creates an opportunity for herself to find investors by creating and playing as "Lady Whitfield", a recently windowed lady of the ton. Noel, the Duke of Rotherby, is a self proclaimed rake and part time investor. He is immediately attracted to her intelligence and strength, wishing to be in her company as often and in any way possible, as long as she will allow it. He is not a man who trusts easily, but he finds himself revealing things to her that not even his friends, the Union of Rakes, are aware of. From this set up it is pretty easy to see where the story is going to go, however, I completely enjoyed the unexpected turns this ride provided along the way. In all of the Regency/Historical Romance books I have ever read over the years, I have never seen this dynamic between the characters. The flirted with each other from their very first encounter, their mutual attraction was completely obvious but they still sought consent from one another for each action they took. This show of respect and desire for one anothet truly made the steamy scenes even more enjoyable for me as, "consent is my kink". It might be early for me to say, but I truly believe Eva Leigh is going to be a new favorite author for me. This story brought me so much joy and contentment, that I have already purchased the first installment is this series, My Fake Rake, and plan to start reading it soon. **Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the free E-ARC in exchange of my honest review** https://www.instagram.com/p/CDNTDYAAjqx/?igshid=15zyue29792ji

[loveleighreading]

👾Book Review👾 Afternoon loves! Here is my last photo prompt for #AvengerinJuly "Favorite apocalyptic read". . Title: The Host Author: Stephanie Meyer Genre: YA Scifi Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Human society has never been more peaceful, no more fighting wars, starvation, or disease and everyone is kind and respectful to one another. The catch is, they are no longer human. The future Earth has been taken over by "Souls", which are small insect-like alien beings that are placed inside a host human, and take over the mind and body. The only way you can tell physically tell that someone has been taken over by a Soul, is a small ring of reflective silver that can be seen around the pupil of the eye. The story follows Wanderer, a Soul who has been placed inside the body of a young girl, who is from a rebel group of humans that has been fighting and avoiding the Souls' reach. Unlike any host body that she has inhabited before, Wanderer soon learns that she is not alone in this body. The girl, Melanie, is still here and will do whatever she can to free herself and protect those she loves. I do not want to say much more about the story to avoid spoilers, but I can say that this is one of my all time favorite books. The characters you meet along the way, the romance, the fight for survival, all of it is so wonderfully woven together that you will not be able to put it down. I would also like to point out that this is one of those occasions where the book was done justice by the movie. It has a fantastic script and the cast does an amazing job bringing the characters to life. . #QOTD: Do you have a favorite apocalyptic read or story? . Challenges: - #RFABJuly20 - Day 27 - A thick book - this book is 620pgs - #Bookcoverlovejuly - Day - Favorite standalone - I really wish the had actually gotten to be a series. But maybe with Midnight Sun happening we might finally get a sequel to this as well. . Big thank you to @spoileralertqueen For taking this picture for me 😘 . . #bookstagram #thehost #stephaniemeyer #apocalyptic #yascifi (at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDKJFXMg1sd/?igshid=1n1se9hsedumy

[loveleighreading]

📚#Shelfiesunday📚 Good morning my loves! I have been severely negligent showing off my manga collection, so I am going to rectify that from this point on. . Magna Title: Yona of the Dawn / Akatsuki no Yona Mangaka: Mizuho Kusanagi Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance (shoujo) Status: Ongoing (currently 32 volumes) Manga Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Art style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yona of the Dawn is currently my favorite manga series. The characters are so dynamic & well formed, with deep relationships that continue to be expanded on as the series goes on. The story is about young naive Princess Yona, who must flee the palace after a horrific event. The only person she can rely on is her bodyguard and childhood friend Hak, who is also known as Thunderbeast because of his ungodly strength & fighting prowess. He will do whatever it takes to protect his Princess, even if he almost dies in the process. In an effort to protect themselves, they are instructed to seek out the 4 Legendary Dragon Warriors. Each of these warriors has been blessed with a gift from the dragon gods: White Dragon possesses the dragons claw, Blue the all seeing dragon eyes, Green the leg of the dragon, and Yellow the impenetrable scales of a dragon. While they are fighting for survival, they end up unintentionally helping to fight the injustices happening in the country. As rumors of beast like warriors, a girl with hair like fire, a beautiful boy genius and a frightening black clad fighter start to make their way back to the palace, they must make a decision, do they take back the kingdom or stay on the run. This is an amazing story with fantasy, adventure, humor, politics, pirates, dragons & romance. So many great things to keep you enraptured (especially all of the gorgeous husbandos 😍). It is currently ongoing, but there is plenty available in English translation to get you started on the adventure. . #QOTD: With the amount of manga, anime & webcomics that I consume, would you like seeing reviews of things other than books on my page? . Challenges: - #RFABJuly20 - Day 26 - #shelfie - #Bookcoverlovejuly - Day - Crown on the Cover . . #bookstagram #manga #yonaofthedawn #AkatsukinoYona #mangareview #vizmedia (at Addison, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDGxTLPgDpt/?igshid=1rkrgcmhruf9o

[loveleighreading]

🦸‍♀️Favorite Superhero?🦹‍♂️ Hi my loves! Today I'm doing my 3rd photo prompt for #AvengersinJuly "Showcase a book about the struggle between good and evil" The entire Renegades series fits this prompt because it is literally Heros VS Villains. Particularly Nova's struggle between helping her family dismantle the hero's organization from the inside or becoming one of the "good guys". Fun fact that I am only just realizing, the mascot for the community college in my Hometown is The Renegades, and I used to live on Renegade Ave 😁 Next time I visit home I am definitely taking a picture with the street sign. . If you hadn't noticed by now, my account is a #bookstagram / Marissa Meyer Stan account. Yet when going through my reviews on Goodreads, I realized I have never actually written a review for any of them 😱😱. Guess who is gonna need to do some rereads?? 😅 . #QOTD: Favorite superhero? #AOTD: Green Lantern, specifically John Stewart from the animated Justice League show that was on Cartoon Network. He and Hawkgirl were one of my very first ships 🥰 . Challenges: - #RFABJuly20 - Day 23 - Most Heartbreaking Death - it happens in this series but I'm not saying who 😭 - #Bookcoverlovejuly - Day 23 - Sci Fi . . . #Renegades #Archenemies #supernova #Marissameyer #justiceleague #dc #marvel #superherobooks #favoritesuperhero (at Dallas, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CC_Ez5XA_7b/?igshid=1xg4syxvvpgfx

[loveleighreading]

⚔Book Review⚔ Book: The Storm Crow Author: Kalyn Josephson Genre: YA Fantasy Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Audiobook: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I will happily admit this was cover buy for me, not only is the dust jacket absolutely stunning but the naked cover has gorgeous foil debossing 😍 The Kingdom of Rhodaire flourishes with the assistance of giant magical Crows, who's elemental powers are essential to daily life, work and protection of of the country. On the night of the yearly moon celebration, tragedy strikes at the hands of the Illucian empire. On that terrible night, the Kingdomg lost their Queen and the Crows. After the incident, 2nd Princess Anthia fell into a crippling depression for months, only being able to think of what has been lost. In the meantime her sister has taken over running the country and has been faced with a horrific choice: Marry her sister off the crown Prince of Illucia or face a war her already struggling country has no hope to win. With the decision made for her, Thia has no choice but to go along with the marriage, but just as she prepares to leave her home she stumbles upon a lone lost Crows egg. This lights a spark inside her-- she is determined to find out how to hatch the egg & harness it's magic to help her people. This story definitely has an interesting premise, & a very strong start. I really enjoyed learning about the different Crows and the ways they are involved with the the society. I felt deeply for Thia with all that she has lost, & as someone who suffers from anxiety I could definitely relate to her feelings of depression. I loved seeing the friendship she has with her guard, & enjoyed all of her interactions with the "spoiled" prince. Then about halfway through we are introduced to another important character & that is where this story lost me. I just couldn't connect with the new relationship that was developing & that hindered my appreciation. Overall, I did enjoy the story & plan to read the sequel as soon as I have the opportunity. TW: Animal death, death of a loved one, gore, self harm . Challenges: - #RFABJuly20 - Day 22 - A favorite cover - #Bookcoverlovejuly - Day 22 - Fantasy . . #bookreview #thestormcrow (at Addison, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CC8nRSogryR/?igshid=uleqlp8sdzps

[loveleighreading]

⚔Happy Release Day⚔ Good morning loves! I am so excited that Shielded is now available out in the wild! . Book: Shielded Author: Kaylynn Flanders Genre: YA Fantasy Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Princess Jennesara is the second heir in a family line where only the 1st born is supposed to possess magical powers, identified by a white streak in their hair. Jenna, has been braiding her own hair since a very young age in attempts to hide the fact that she does actually possess magic powers so that she is not sent away. Unfortunately, she will still have to leave her home to help solidify a marriage alliance with another country. On the way, tragedy strikes and her adventures begin. I found this to be a very charming and fun fantasy read, that was very simple and enjoyable. The main cast of characters were all wonderful, you could really feel the love and affection between the family members for one another. However, the villainous characters were not nearly as strong or well rounded. I also felt confused when it came to the magic system, it just seemed there was a missing component but I cannot put my finger on exactly what it is. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the sequel in the future. **ARC provided to me by Netgalley and Random House Children's books in exchange for an honest review** . . . #bookreview #netgalley #Shielded #randomhouse #releaseday https://www.instagram.com/p/CC5xFt0g5sK/?igshid=17fqcep9l1dn8

[loveleighreading]

80 Young Adult Books by Black Authors

Supporting Black authors is something that I definitely need to start doing more, so I’ve compiled a list of 80 YA books by Black authors. I’m putting the ones that I’ve read at the top in bold, and the rest will be books that I have looked up and have put on my list to read. I can’t do much to change what’s going on in our world right now, but I can do my part to support the Black community in any way that I can. These are in no particular order and please feel free to add more!

On The Come Up by Angie Thomas

With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

Calling My Name by Liara Tamani

Dear Martin by Nic Stone

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson

Odd One Out by Nic Stone

Jackpot by Nic Stone

Dear Justyce by Nic Stone - coming out 9/29/20

Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

Oh My Gods by Alexandra Sheppard

Black Enough: Stories of Being Young and Black in America edited by Ibi Zoboi

Love Me or Miss Me: Hot Girl, Bad Boy by Dream Jordan

Spin by Lamar Giles

Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James

Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan

Opposite of Always by Justin A. Reynolds

The Belles Series by Dhonielle Clayton

The Weight of the Stars by K. Ancrum

Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams

Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson

The Voice in My Head by Dana L. Davis

I Wanna Be Where You Are by Kristina Forest

The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

The Evolution of Birdie Randolph by Brandy Colbert

Dear Haiti, Love Alaine by Maika and Maritza Moulite

Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney

A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

Full Disclosure by Camryn Garrett

The Forgotten Girl by India Hill Brown

Tyler Johnson Was Here by Jay Coles

Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson

Solo by Kwame Alexander

A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow

By Any Means Necessary by Candid Montgomery

War Girls by Tochi Onyebuchi

Light It Up by Kekla Magoon

Who Put This Song On? by Morgan Parker

Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson

Finding Yvonne by Brandy Colbert

Learning to Breathe by Janice Lynn Mather

I am Alfonso Jones by Tony Medina

The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

X: A Novel by Ilyasah Shabazz

The Boy in the Black Suit by Jason Reynolds

How It Went Down by Kekla Magoon

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland

Not So Pure and Simple by Lamar Giles

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe

Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Pride by Ibi Zoboi

Opposite Of Always by Justin A. Reynolds

Buried Beneath The Baobab Tree by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani

The Effigies Series by Sarah Raughley

Well-Read Black Girl: Finding Our Stories, Discovering Ourselves by Glory Edim

Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid

I Almost Forgot About You by Terry McMillan

Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

What Is Not Yours Is Not Yours by Helen Oyeyemi

A Phoenix First Must Burn: Sixteen Stories of Black Girl Magic, Resistance, and Hope edited by Patrice Caldwell

This Is My America by Kim Johnson

Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam

If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson

Nightmare of the Clans by Pamela E. Cash

Black Boy, White School by Brian F. Walker

Behind You by Jacqueline Woodson

Hush by Jacqueline Woodson

Tiffany Sly Lives Here Now by Dana L. Davis

Grown by Tiffany D. Jackson