"Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend" by Cheryl Carpinello

EXCERPT and GIVEAWAY

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend

by Cheryl Carpinello

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is the second book in the Guinevere series by Cheryl Carpinello. Also available: Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend (read my blog post).

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is currently on tour with BeachBoundBooks. The tour stops here today for an excerpt and a giveaway. Please be sure to visit the other tour stops as well.

Description

"Think before acting," her father always warned. But Princess Guinevere is ruled by her heart. Her betrothal to King Arthur has not changed this.

When Guinevere and Cedwyn’s latest adventure takes a dangerous turn, they find themselves embroiled in a life-or-death struggle as foretold by Merlyn’s Goddess of the Stones.

Renegadesn - foiled in their attempt to kidnap the princess - steal the children of Cadbury Castle to sell as slaves. Guinevere and Cedwyn vow to rescue the children, but a miscalculation puts them all in more danger. The plan quickly unravels, and Guinevere’s impassioned decisions come crashing down as Cedwyn chooses to turn his dream of becoming a knight into reality. Will their courage be strong enough to survive, or will one make the ultimate sacrifice?

Excerpt

His finger on her lips stopped her rebuttal.

“Not now. Other issues demand the attention of the knights and kings.”…

“But Father…I promised.”

“So you did, daughter mine, but kings must rule with their heads not their hearts. This discussion is over. You are dismissed to go to your room. I have a knight there who will make sure your rest tonight isn’t disturbed.”

Her legs refused to move. She opened her mouth, but no words came.

“Go. Now Guinevere. Before I forget you’re my own flesh and have you flogged for the dangers you’ve brought upon us. Go!”

Guinevere ran from the room, fists clenched, tears streaming down her face.

[Want more? Click below to read a longer excerpt.]

Praise for the Book

"Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is the sequel to Cheryl Carpinello's first Guinevere story, Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend. Both books take the fascinating Arthurian legends and create stories that will entice even the most reluctant of readers. With realistic characters and an exciting plot full of adventure, the reader will be pulled along to an unexpected conclusion. Young readers will certainly easily associate with Guinevere and Cedwyn, who, at their young age, take risks and disobey their parents, while at the same time they reach out to help others. A great way to entice readers, even reluctant ones, to follow the adventures found in legends. " ~ 5-Star Review from Readers' Favorite

"At the Dawn of Legend is the second book in a trilogy about Guinevere and her friend Cedwyn. Although I haven't read the first book, it didn't hinder my enjoyment of this sequel. The plot is pretty straight-forward, fast-paced, and overall suitable for its target, middle grade audience. The book heavily points out the loyalty and love between the two friends, serving as a good role-model for young readers. Another thing I really liked are the Questions for Discussion and Enrichment found at the end of the novel, because not only do they serve to remind the reading group of major plot points or finer details, but they also prompt you to dig deeper, read up, and think on your own." ~ Valentina Markasović

"What a lovely tale! This book, which is the second in a trilogy is aimed at 9-15-year-olds [...] The language was good for the audience, the flow was pacey and the chapters a good length to be digestible for younger or less advanced readers. I thought the 'talking points' at the end were a nice way to engage the reader afterwards if this was part of a YA group read, the character summaries are also helpful for any younger readers unfamiliar with the legend." ~ Jackie

"A beautiful story. [...] Easy to understand language usage. [...] It is quite enjoyable and suitable for everyone. You should try reading it. And especially, do get it for the younger ones. They do need to know about legendary characters from around the world." ~ Amutha

About the Author

I’m a retired high school English teacher. A devourer of books growing up, my profession introduced me to writings and authors from times long past. Through my studies and teaching, I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. Now, I hope to inspire young readers and those Young-at-Heart to read more through my Tales and Legends for Reluctant Readers set in these worlds.

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"Descendant Prophecies" Series by Mary Ting

EXCERPT and GIVEAWAY

Descendant Prophecies Series

by Mary Ting

The Descendant Prophecies series by Mary Ting consists of From Gods, From Deities, From Origins, and From Titans (available for pre-order).

  

This book blast and giveaway is brought to you by I Am A Reader.

Description for From Gods

Did you just see a flash of lightning across the sky on a clear sunny day? Don’t blame Mother Nature.

Skylar Rome can’t wait to spend her last summer before college with her cousin, Kayla. Everything changes when they meet the Grand brothers. Skylar is sure she should stay away from Mason Grand, but their attraction is undeniable. Then Skylar’s life erupts into turmoil. She steps into a world where descendants of ancient gods have super powers, evil beings chase her, and questions arise about her own identity. She is running out of time and running for her life, while trying to unravel the mystery of what they want from her.

Forced into a battle set into motion long before she was born, will Skylar find the answers she seeks, or will she die trying? 

Book Video for From Gods

Excerpt from From Gods

“Mason, MASON, MASON!” Skylar panicked.

“I know. Skylar, hold on tight. I’m going to brake.”

“But there are cars behind us.”

“We have no choice. Don’t worry. I got this.” Mason pushed down on the brake forcefully. The car hydroplaned to the right. “Hold on.”

Skylar gripped the first thing her hand found. The water from the road jetted up into the air like in a water show, but the car kept gliding sideways, until finally it spun in a full circle and stopped. With no time to waste, Mason turned it to the right and accelerated, hoping to dodge what was coming toward them.

Out of nowhere, a long piece of ice, taking the form of a spear, darted through the trucks’ tires and punctured some of them. More ice spears came soaring out of the rain, but this time ten or more sphere-like ice balls followed, denting the sides of the trucks. One went through a windshield. With flat tires, the trucks now glided as if skating on ice, maneuvering from side to side.

“Did you do that?” Skylar asked excitedly.

“No. Must be Poseidon’s kids. Where the hell are they?” Mason spread his right arm out in front of Skylar as if to protect her. “Bend down, Sky.”

One of the trucks hit another and veered off, hitting yet another one. The crash caused the trucks to flip and tumble, heading straight for Mason’s car. With a look of shock, Skylar held her breath. There was no time to move, think, or get out of the car, so she closed her eyes and prepared for the crash.

Seconds before impact, Mason’s car flew up into the air and over the trucks. Somehow, as if by magic, the water created a liquid bridge, guiding the car safely over, and then it thumped hard onto the ground on the other side. Without looking back, Mason sped away as the sound of screeching brakes and metal hitting metal blasted behind them.

[Want more? Click below to read a longer excerpt.]

Praise for From Gods

"From Gods takes mythology to a whole new level of imagination with its incredible plot and amazing characters. It’s full of hotness that you never want to end!" ~ Michele, Insane About Books

"From Gods by the AMAZING AUTHOR Mary Ting is OMGods good!! If you even LIKE Greek Mythology, set aside some time because you will DEVOUR Mary Ting’s Demi Gods and Vultures!!!" ~ Mindy, Books Complete Me

"A fast paced adventure full of mystery, action, magic and romance! Readers won't be able to put this book down!" ~ InD'tale Magazine

"A story that is Electrifying with love. Get ready to be shocked!" ~ Janie, Crossangels

"This book is 'electric' as it blends paranormal romance, mythology (which I love), action and suspense together for an amazing read. Mary Ting, you've done it again! This book exceeded my expectations and I was literally blown away as if I were struck by lightning!" ~ Vanessa, Fairiechick's Fantasy Book Reader

About the Author

International Bestselling, Award-Winning, Author Mary Ting/M. Clarke resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one, Something Great (FREE), under the pen name, M. Clarke. Why the pen name? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book No Bullies Allowed.

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"Whispers of Trees" by Ben Woodard

REVIEW and GIVEAWAY

Whispers of Trees
(Mythic Adventures Collection Book 2)

by Ben Woodard

Whispers of Trees is the second book in the Mythic Adventures Collection by Ben Woodard. It is recommended for children ages 7 to 12. Also available: The Boy Who Flew With Eagles (read my blog post).

Whispers of Trees is currently on tour with BeachBoundBooks. The tour stops here today for my review, an excerpt, and a giveaway. Please be sure to visit the other tour stops as well.

More books by this author: A Stairway to Danger (read my blog post), Steps Into Darkness (read my blog post), The Hunt (read my blog post), and Bubbles: Big Stink in Frog Pond (read my blog post).

Description

An ancient forest, a dark night, a strange woman - and whispers.

What is going on in this eerie Irish forest? Ten-year-old Declan has to find out. His brother is missing and only he can solve the mystery. But why him? He doesn’t even like his always-yelling brother who his sister says was eaten by wolves. But there are no wolves in Ireland.

Then a witch-like woman tells him the two of them have to go into the spooky woods to save his brother. But from what? The strange trees only whisper the answer and he must discover what they are trying to tell him. But he will learn much more than he ever dreamed.

Whispers of Trees is a fun, page-turning thriller hinting of myth that delivers a multicultural adventure.

Excerpt

He slowed as he spotted a piece of clothing that he recognized as Colin’s glove. He snatched it up while his eyes darted to the trees and bushes. He stood riveted, his neck stiff. There was no movement, no sound, and the leaves seemed to be frozen in place. A chill snaked its way down his spine. This was more than spooky - something was wrong. He tiptoed, trying not to make a sound. Why am I being quiet? I should be yelling for Colin. He moved off the trail and into the foliage, looking for the other glove.

The ground and fallen logs were covered with a thick mantle of moss. Mounds of it rose up from the forest floor, making a rolling green carpet between the massive trees. Branches seemed to wrap around him like tentacles. Still no sound.

If Colin was around, there would definitely be noise. He shuddered. Then spun around and charged back down the trail toward his parents.

The trees and bushes became a blur of brown and green. The trail narrowed and the foliage closed in. The wind wailed, and its sound rushing through the trees seemed to say Col-in Col-in. Declan’s throat tightened and his feet increased their furious assault on the ancient Irish ground.

Praise for the Book

"I have read many books by this author and he is such a master of short stories The story is well written and the characters become life like and recognizable to those we may know in real life. I enjoyed reading this book and was sorry when reaching the last page." ~ M. Hodgin

"Whispers of Trees is a great story to encourage boys to read. The length of the book is easily manageable even for timid readers and there is a mystery to solve with a bit of suspense to keep them engaged. It does all of this while teaching important life lessons like not judging people by their appearance." ~ Tina Morley

"I was mesmerized with the expressive writing, every detail jumped out at me and made me wonder page after page of jubilance. Short story kept me focus on the adventure of the thrill of quite a children book." ~ Darlene Cruz

"My son loved it and didn't want it to end. He asked me if we could read it again as soon as we finished it. It has the perfect amount of mystery and suspense as well as a wonderful lesson for kids and adults. So grab a copy and curl up with your little monster to find out if Declan listened to the trees." ~ Courtney Parker

"This author has so much talent and it shows in the plot of the story and the well thought out characters. Was easy to fall into the story, easy to keep up and has a smooth tell through the entire book! All in all a great read!" ~ Amazon Customer

My Review

By Lynda Dickson

During a family camping trip in the forests of Ireland, boisterous eight-year-old Colin O'Shea goes missing. Colin claimed to have seen a wolf the day before, and now his little sister Bridget says she saw a wolf eat him! But wolves haven't roamed these woods for 300 years. His ten-year-old brother Declan has another idea about what might have happened to him. Could his disappearance have something to do with the mysterious trees in the forest, the ones that appear almost human and seem to be whispering to him? What strange, old Mrs O'Leary has to say only reinforces his suspicions. Declan and Mrs O'Leary embark on a dangerous mission to rescue Colin - and to try and save the whole O'Shea family in the process.

This is a magical, mystical tale of witches, dryads, and family. Mrs O'Leary, the tech-savvy "witch" is a hoot. Stark black-and-white images of trees illustrate the book and add to the atmosphere created by the author's words; I only wish they were bigger. The story is similar in feel to the first book in this series - a tale of nature, with an underlying message of preservation. Once again, the author's notes at the end give us a further insight into the truth behind the fiction.

A great story for readers ages 7 to 12, especially boys.

About the Author

A spellbinding storyteller of high adventure, Ben has walked the Great Wall of China, hiked in Tibet, and climbed to 18,000 feet on Mt Everest. And recently learned to surf in Hawaii.

Ben is active in SCBWI and a member of a local children's writing critique group. He is a former Marketing Manager for a major corporation and ran his own marketing consulting business. He started writing children's stories in 2008 and has written picture books, middle grade and young adult. Stories of adventure and wonder. Stories that inspire and educate, and, most of all, entertain. His titles include The Trestle (FREE), The Hunt, The Boy Who Flew With Eagles, A Terrible Price, (FREE), A Stairway to Danger, Steps Into Darkness, and Bubbles.

Ben lives in Kentucky with his wife Lynda.

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Enter the tour-wide giveaway for a chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash.

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