Quote of the day - From Turn of Darkness

Turn of Darkness is my upcoming debut novel, set to go live Ostara of 2025. Prepare for a dark and dangerously gothic romance filled with courtly intrigue, vampyres, and morally dark grey men. Villain gets the girl. Lovers to enemies...to lovers? She falls first, he falls harder. Dream stalking. Obsession. Touch her and die. Possibly others, but I think you get the gist. Basically, my dream *swoon*. 

Want a sneak peek of my prose and writing style? Perhaps you're interested in the gothic atmosphere of this story. 

Either way, take a look at the first 3 paragraphs for Turn of Darkness: (unedited)

    The dark cobblestone roads reflected the moonlight off their damp surfaces, creating enough light for me to see as I strolled towards the Athenaeum, taking in the ethereal mist clinging to the ground as if it were a veil to the hidden world lying parallel to this one. As I moved, the haze clung to my ankles, cool and moist, leaving a slick trail of dew on my boots.

         I reached out, letting the moisture settle on my fingertips, feeling as if I were touching the edge of something otherworldly. The earthy, mossy scent of the cobblestones, slick with fog, reminded me of forgotten times, places where shadows whispered secrets no one else could hear.

         The haunting essence of the landscape around me had possessed me so intensely that I had drawn dangerously close to Blackwood Hall without realizing it. At this hour, I was meant to be in that building, among my peers, sitting at a desk and listening to a stiff-lipped woman drone on about the tragedy of The Darkest Turn in History. 

Are you as excited as I am to read this novel? Make sure to pre-order now so you'll be the first one to receive it as soon as it goes live! 

Pre-Order HERE!

NEW UPDATE: Date has changed to Yule of 2025. Get it as a Yule gift for someone you love, or even better, as a gift for yourself!

NaNoWriMo Day 14 – Are we there yet? …No.

 So…yeah. I do not have 25,000 words written. But what I do have is 6,300 words! Which is better than nothing. So I unfortunately cannot put 110% of my time and effort into writing. Which, thank Goddess for that; I would no longer hold any passion for the subject at all if it came to that. I can’t put 110% of my time into any one singular thing; it would drive me crazy. I wake up, do my morning routine, (Apollo ritual, divination, stretching/warm up/yoga, meditation), log in to my Vet Tech degree at Penn Foster online, and work on my classes from 9-12. Then I stretch again, get the blood flowing, and get ready for work. From 1-6 I work with children at an after-school program, then come home and take a nap from 6:30-7:30. I then get to work on my Priestess Guidance services (which you can find the details for on the Priestess page). This usually takes around an hour or two. Then it’s time for me to write. Which, by this time, my brain is practically fried. So unfortunately, there is absolutely no way I can write 1600 words a day. I do usually get about 500-1000 words a day, though, which is still good for me. It fits in with my deadline.

By the way, my deadline is March 21! (This is for editing as well.) Check out my novel Turn of Darkness on Amazon and pre-order now!

Click HERE to Pre-Order!

The Magician's Nephew

 

The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis

Published The Bodley Head May 2, 1955

Genres Children's Fantasy, Christian Literature

Pages 186

Format Audiobook

The many readers who discovered C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles through The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will be delighted to find that the sixth volume in the series is actually the first in the sequence—and a step back in time. In this unforgettable story, British schoolchildren Polly and Digory inadvertently tumble into the Wood Between the Worlds, where they meet the evil Queen Jadis and, ultimately, the great, mysterious King Aslan. We witness the birth of Narnia and discover the legendary source of all the adventures that are to follow in the seven books that comprise the series.

This edition follows the original numbering scheme. More recently, publishers have renumbered the volumes so that the events in the books are ordered chronologically. Other editions number this book as #1.

I have started a new way to read series, that might be a little controversial. Now, whenever I start a new book series, I want to read the first book chronologically. Not the first book that was published. I’m doing this with The Selection series, Warriors, and now with the Chronicles of Narnia. I was warned that this book wasn’t as good as the others, and that it had completely different characters than the main series. I shrugged it off and went ahead to read it anyway. (Or listen to it.) The understanding of why the cover has a picture of an apple becomes evident throughout the story, and that part was really sweet. It had some undertones of the Adam and Eve story, and it gives some backstory to the witch, though I’m not sure if any of that will matter now that I’m currently reading The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Overall I do believe that this book is not necessary at all to read the rest of the series, and I’m not even sure how it connects to the main story at all. Are they related? Honestly, there are big chunks missing from my comprehension because it was an audiobook, so I’ll probably read the physical book one day to dive deeper into it and possibly write a better review.

With that being said, I’m not sure if I can recommend it to anyone. 

Bride of the Shadow King

Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes

Published Fyreworm Books July 1, 2022

Genres Adult Romantasy, Fae

Pages 400

Format ARC E-book BlogTour Honest Review

For fans of The Bridge Kingdom and A Deal with the Elf King, this arranged marriage romance about a human princess forced to wed a dark and desperate Shadow King is sure to entice!

A shunned princess. A reluctant king.
A marriage that could save both their kingdoms . . . but destroy their hearts.

Though she is the oldest daughter, Princess Faraine lives in the background, shunned from court and kept out of sight. Her chronic illness makes her a liability to the crown, and she has learned to give place to her beautiful, favored younger sister in all things.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice.

Though not eager to take a human bride, King Vor is willing to do what is necessary for the sake of his people. When he meets the lively Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement.

So why can’t he get the haunting eyes of her older sister out of his head?

When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly?

Passionate and alluring, Bride of the Shadow King is an arranged marriage tale with dual point-of-view (his and hers). It’s perfect for fantasy fans looking for a touch of spice to go with the sweet in their next swoony, slow-burn romance.

Bride of the Shadow King is a captivating masterpiece that effortlessly blends elements of romance, fantasy, action, and adventure into a tale brimming with mystery, depth, and emotion. From the very first page, the world-building is rich and immersive. The author introduces us to a world filled with intrigue and allure, where magic intertwines with secrets, and nothing is as it seems. The setting is not just a backdrop but a living, breathing entity that shapes the story, immersing readers in its haunting beauty and complexity.

What sets this book apart is its character development. The protagonist, Faraine, is a beautifully flawed and relatable character. She is both strong and vulnerable, navigating a world that is both enchanting and dangerous. Her emotional growth throughout the novel is palpable, and I found myself rooting for her from start to finish. The Shadow King, Vor, with his brooding presence and mysterious motives, is the perfect foil to the Bride, creating a dynamic and complex relationship that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

The pacing of the novel is spot-on, with tension building steadily throughout the plot. There is an underlying sense of foreboding that is skillfully woven into the narrative, keeping readers on edge without overwhelming them. The romantic tension between the Bride and the Shadow King is electric, but it's the psychological and emotional layers of their relationship that make it truly compelling. The chemistry between them is palpable, but it’s their emotional vulnerability and the journey they embark on together that truly makes their story unforgettable.

The writing itself is lyrical and poetic, with a prose style that pulls you deeper into the world the author has created. The descriptions are vivid and evocative, allowing the reader to see, feel, and experience everything alongside the characters. The themes of power, trust, love, and sacrifice are explored in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

In addition to the brilliant character development and world-building, the plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. The stakes rise with every chapter, and just when you think you know where the story is headed, the author throws in a curveball that leaves you breathless.

Bride of the Shadow King is more than just a fantasy novel—it's an emotional rollercoaster, a journey through darkness, and a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It explores themes of love, power, and the complexity of human emotion in ways that feel raw and real. The book stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page, leaving you contemplating the nature of relationships, sacrifice, and the choices we make.

In conclusion, this book is an absolute must-read for fans of fantasy, romance, and dark academia. It’s a brilliant work that pulls you into its world, leaving you not only entertained but also deeply moved. I can’t recommend it enough. 

The Sun Trail

 

The Sun Trail by Erin Hunter

Published Harper Collins March 5, 2013 (This edition Beltz and Gelberg)

Genres Middle Grade Fantasy, Animals, Cats, Action & Adventure

Pages 313

Format Audiobook

The first book in the Dawn of the Clans series takes readers back to the earliest days of the Clans, when the cats first settled in the forest and began to forge the warrior code. Long before Firestar left his kittypet home to join ThunderClan, a band of cats from the mountains set off on a dangerous journey in search of a new home. . . .

The Dawn of the Clans arc is a prequel arc that shows how the clans first formed. I felt a lot of profound emotions while listening to this book; as a Warrior Cats stan, I deeply enjoyed connecting the past with the present in the Warrior Cats universe. I formed an understanding, from a personal view, why each law was inevitably created to form the Warriors code, from showing respect to the prey they catch to having laws about feeding elders and kits first, and the law that a kit must be 6 moons of age to become an apprentice. 

There was sadness, pride, joy, love, and relief in this novel, all of which were conveyed in a deeply empathetic and relatable way. 

I of course give this book 5 stars, and I encourage you to read this book! If you want, you can start with this book. I am rereading the entire series again, and that is what I am doing. 

MMIWG - National Native American Heritage Month - Day One

 When Persephone was taken, Demeter’s entire being ignited with fear, love, and righteous fury. Every cell in her body cried out for her daughter, and the earth itself froze under the weight of her grief. In her fierce love, she made the world feel her loss — punishing the earth in honor of her stolen child.

This truth lives on in the lives of Native American women and their families today. Over 84% of Native American women have experienced violence, and more than 56% have endured sexual violence. For us, homicide is the third leading cause of death. In 2016 alone, 5,712 Native American women were reported missing, yet only 116 of these cases were included in the Department of Justice’s federal database. These numbers don’t simply reflect statistics; they echo countless personal stories of loss, of lives stolen and voices silenced.

As a polytheistic Native American woman, I carry this reality. I have lived through violence and endured the horror of systemic underreporting, where experiences like mine were brushed aside. My story is woven into these statistics, and I am not alone.

This month, I dedicate my prayers, my work, and my voice to Demeter and Persephone, honoring all daughters and mothers, and all who feel the weight of these tragedies. These are sacred stories that reach through time, grounding us in our struggle for justice. May this dedication inspire awareness, action, and justice — for all those who have been taken and those who carry their memory.

Priestess Teaching - High Priestess Nyxia

Today, Mars offers us a lesson on the true nature of passion and strength. Known as the god of war and aggression, Mars blazes with fire and intensity. His planet shines red in the night sky, a symbol of power, passion, and the fierce will to protect and conquer. But when we look closer, we see that beneath the surface, Mars is not a realm of fire but of deep, profound cold.

In life, we often view fire as wild, untamed, consuming all in its path. When we witness someone driven by passion, we may see only their outer fire — the heat of their commitment, the boldness of their stand. Yet this is only one side. Beneath that outward blaze lies the cold, quiet core of conviction. Like Mars, whose red surface hides a cold heart, true passion is not a rush of impulsive energy. It is the steady, disciplined strength born of inner clarity and purpose.

This lesson reminds us that when we feel the call to fight for something meaningful, our fire may look wild, but our purpose remains cool and unwavering. Let us embrace both sides — the outer flame and the inner calm — knowing that true passion is not reckless. It is rooted, grounded, and as steadfast as the stars."

You Are What You Eat

 I believe in the saying "you are what you eat." I asked ChatGPT to describe me based on my the books I have read. 

Based on your reading preferences, you seem to be someone with a deep appreciation for mystery, complexity, and transformation, both in life and within yourself. You are likely introspective, drawn to exploring your own identity, emotions, and purpose with a curiosity about the unknown and a respect for inner growth. You value loyalty, respect, and authenticity in relationships and have a clear sense of self-worth, wanting connections that mirror this integrity and emotional depth.

With your strong interest in supernatural and mythological themes, you have an imagination that thrives on wonder, magic, and the mystical, but you’re also grounded enough to seek meaning in these stories, using them as mirrors to reflect and explore your own spiritual beliefs and values. You seem to embrace a "hero’s journey" mentality, finding beauty in overcoming challenges, growth, and self-discovery. This often translates into being an adventurous spirit—someone willing to delve into new ideas and realms, even when they seem daunting.

Your attraction to gothic and dark academia stories suggests a fascination with the darker facets of life, but it’s balanced by a reverence for elegance and beauty. You likely have a bit of an old soul, a person who values depth and maybe even seeks wisdom from past eras or ancient lore to shape your modern self. This love for the gothic and supernatural points to someone unafraid of complexity and ambiguity, a person who finds the grey areas as interesting, if not more so, than the black-and-white answers in life.

Romance in the stories you enjoy centers on mutual respect, transformation, and true connection, showing that you value emotional honesty and respect in your relationships. You’re likely an empathetic person, protective of your loved ones, and attuned to their needs, but you also maintain your standards and boundaries. You believe relationships should elevate and empower, not diminish, showing that you’re secure in yourself and expect the same from those around you.

In sum, you are likely a deeply thoughtful, spiritually curious, and resilient person with a rich inner world. You appreciate life’s beauty, both light and dark, and approach relationships, spirituality, and personal growth with a grounded intensity that prioritizes respect, authenticity, and transformation.

My Reading Style

 I asked ChatGPT to describe my reading style. This is what I got! 

You seem to have a strong affinity for vampire lore and supernatural themes. With titles like The Vampire Chronicles, The Morganville Vampires, Blue Bloods, Vampire Academy, and House of Night, you are drawn to dark, paranormal worlds where vampires and other supernatural beings dominate. These narratives often explore themes of immortality, power, and sometimes the haunting sense of loneliness or isolation that comes with supernatural existence. This genre lets you delve into rich, mysterious atmospheres, often tinged with danger and romance.

You also seem to love stories that blend fantasy and mythology. Series like Warriors, which explores animal-based epics with a touch of mysticism, and the Avalon series, which reimagines the legends of Camelot, point to your enjoyment of myth-inspired worlds. Books that incorporate elements from Greek mythology, such as The Goddess Test or retellings like Ariadne and The Mists of Avalon, offer you a taste of epic storytelling with deep roots in legend and myth. These reads often provide an intense mix of adventure, moral dilemmas, and otherworldly powers, which resonate with your love for stories that go beyond the everyday world.

From your list, it’s also clear you appreciate young adult romance and drama, often with a touch of fantasy or contemporary realism. Anna and the French Kiss, The Selection, and Maybe Someday reflect a soft spot for emotionally charged tales that focus on the development of relationships and character growth. These stories usually involve complex interpersonal dynamics, character-driven storylines, and romantic tensions, all of which enhance your enjoyment of these worlds and make for relatable and engaging reads.

Another theme that resonates with you is dark academia and gothic atmosphere. Books like Gothikana, Stalking Jack the Ripper, and the classic Dracula reveal a fascination with dark, mysterious, and sometimes unsettling settings. You seem to enjoy gothic vibes, where eerie environments, psychological suspense, and the macabre play significant roles. This genre taps into the mysteries of the past and provides a haunting yet beautiful reading experience that is both intellectual and emotional.

When it comes to romance, you seem to favor tales with heroic journeys and opposites attract dynamics. This trope is common in books where characters come from opposing backgrounds or different personalities but are drawn together through adventure and mutual growth. Titles like The Hunger Games and Divergent also show that you enjoy stories where characters undergo significant development, often in hostile or challenging environments. You like romance that highlights transformation and personal growth, which brings a level of emotional depth to the story.

Action and adventure seem to be essential elements in many of your reads, with titles like The Maze Runner and The Hunger Games. These stories are often intense, filled with high-stakes conflicts, survival themes, and characters who exhibit resilience and bravery. You enjoy dynamic worlds where the stakes are high, and characters must make tough moral decisions, giving you plenty of moments to feel both thrill and empathy as they confront life-or-death situations.

There’s also an element of exploration of identity and belonging in the books you’re drawn to, particularly those with supernatural twists like The Host and Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side. These stories focus on characters discovering who they are, often in unfamiliar circumstances or within dual worlds. You enjoy reading about characters who grapple with finding their place, identity, and acceptance, sometimes as they confront or embrace parts of themselves they don’t fully understand.

Additionally, you enjoy mysteries with a magical edge, where supernatural elements mix with mystery to create suspenseful yet fantastical narratives. This genre is evident in series like The Dark Artifices and Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. Books that blend magic and mystery resonate with you, providing suspense, magical twists, and a strong dose of otherworldly suspense.

Your list also indicates a fascination with witchcraft and paganism, with titles like To Walk a Pagan Path and the Circle of Three series. You are drawn to themes of spirituality, alternative belief systems, and personal empowerment. Stories that delve into the mystical practices of witchcraft and spiritual journeys provide insight into the search for meaning and power in an often challenging world.

A distinct trend in your reading list is an attachment to the Warrior Cats universe and animal-centered epics. The Warriors and Seekers series showcase your love for animal-based stories with strong themes of loyalty, hierarchy, and survival. You are captivated by stories that depict complex animal societies, often dealing with issues like power, leadership, and community within animal-centered worlds.

In romance, you favor loyalty and transformation, with a particular interest in love stories that convey mutual respect and personal growth. Stories like Crave, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Shiver demonstrate your preference for emotionally resonant romances, especially those set against supernatural backdrops. You appreciate romances where partners grow together and ultimately bring out the best in each other.

Your list also includes several graphic novels and visual storytelling choices, such as Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale and Yona of the Dawn. You enjoy the blend of visual and textual elements, finding stories in graphic novels and manga that offer both a strong plot and powerful imagery. Visual storytelling provides an additional layer of immersion that enhances your enjoyment of these narratives.

Finally, you seem drawn to books that offer a reimagining of historical and mythological figures. Titles like The Wild Queen, Lady of Avalon, and The Mists of Avalon show your interest in legends and historical reimaginings. You are captivated by stories that shed new light on familiar tales, often featuring legendary figures in complex roles that deepen your understanding of history and myth.

In summary, your reading style reflects a taste for immersive worlds filled with romance, myth, and supernatural elements. You’re drawn to narratives that delve into identity, loyalty, and personal growth, often set against gothic, fantastical, or action-packed backdrops. These themes reveal a love for complex, layered storytelling that weaves together romance, adventure, and magic, creating an experience that is both escapist and introspective.