Cities of Smoke and Starlight, a science fantasy romance by Allie Earnest

Calling all millennial girlies whose love for enemies-to-lovers began with a scholar girl and a cocky bad boy! If you liked any of the following movies – Treasure Planet, The Mummy, and Anastasia – then I’ve got your next read! Cities of Smoke and Starlight is the first book in Allie Earnest’s science fantasy romance series, The Gate Chronicles, and I listened to the audiobook for free on her YouTube Channel! How awesome is that?!

First off, Allie had me at The Mummy, which is one of my all-time favorite movies. This book checked all the boxes for me. It has delicious slow burn, adventure, banter for days, heartache and more.

The world building is a fun mixture of futuristic with glimpses of the past from “first earth”, including odes to Shakespear and Homer. (It made me want to re-read the Odyssey.) Not to mention there’s a cocky pilot and a determined scholar, butting heads and giving longing glances throughout! Give me more, more, more, please! Books 1 and 2 of the series are complete, and book 3 is on the way!

So, if you want to learn more about the author jump to the about section below. Or, visit her website, where you can find links to all her books. You can also listen to the audiobooks for free on YouTube! I listened to the first book this way, and it was so well-done!

Check out my spoiler-free hook for Cities of Smoke and Starlight below

Cities of Smoke and Starlight is a slow-burn, no-spice science fantasy romance set in a futuristic Victorian era.

After a devastating loss, Hallie moves to the city where she can attend university and study the ancient texts from a long-lost magical culture. But luck isn’t on Hallie’s side when she loses her job at the bookstore, jeopardizing her enrollment at the university. In a turn of fate, Hallie is promised an impossible sum of money to go on a top-secret mission for the government – if she lives to tell the tale. Desperately wanting to keep her scholarship, she immediately agrees. As the scholar of the group, Hallie is tasked with communicating and forming an alliance with an ancient, lost race, hopefully preventing a looming war in the process.

Then there’s Kase, a cocky hover pilot running from his own personal demons. Facing charges from an accident that seriously injured another pilot, Kase agrees to a doomed mission to be exempted from his crimes. His family name only makes matters worse. And to Kase, living up to the expectations of his father and older brothers seems impossible.

He’s the best pilot for the job. She’s the top scholar who can translate the ancient texts of the civilization they seek. But they can’t stand one another! Being in such close proximity for a dangerous mission of potentially no return sounds disastrous….So, when disaster strikes and war looms, will Kase, Hallie, and their ragtag crew make it through to the other side?

Get Your Copy of Cities of Smoke and Starlight

Here are all the ways to buy Cities of Smoke and Starlight! You can find all purchasing options listed on the author’s website. And, I’ve included quick links below to buy on Amazon or directly from the author! If you want to listen to the audiobooks on YouTube, visit Allie’s Instagram @allie_earnest_writes.

Buy on Amazon / KU

Audiobook on Audible

Buy Directly from the Author

About the Author

Alli drinks way too much coffee and is obsessed with burning redwood-scented candles, but growing up with two sisters, she’s always been a tad over-dramatic. It doesn’t help that she enjoys books with dragons, wizards, and laser swords.
​
Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Education, Alli taught English Language Arts for five years and tried to convince thirteen-year-olds that Poe wasn’t nearly as crazy as he sounded.

At present, Alli writes science-fiction and fantasy novels from an office filled with books and other nerdy collectibles. She lives in the southern US with her husband, children, and two poodle mixes.​

Alli is the author of The Gate Chronicles, a science fantasy series that features a world she likes to call steampunk Star Wars and a spice-free SLOWburn romance. Want to start reading? Click HERE. Check out her BOOKS page for more information, and sign up for her NEWSLETTER to be in the know on the latest updates.

Earth and Ink

Thank you for visiting earth-and-ink.com! You can view all my latest blog posts here or visit my Earth and Ink Shop to view all my bookish merchandise. I also sell Reading Journals and Composition Notebooks, designed by yours truly, through my Amazon store. AND, if you like Bookish Stickers, be sure to check out my Redbubble Shop!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Science Fantasy Romance – The Gate Chronicles appeared first on Earth and Ink.

My First Lucy Score Book

Join me as I review my first Lucy Score book, Things We Never Got Over and the entire Knocemout series and crew!

I recognize that I’m very slow to hop on hyped book trains in their shining moments. In my defense, I usually read and listen to audiobooks based on what’s available through my library apps at the moment. And, there was a good while there in undergraduate and graduate school, when I didn’t have any time for personal reading.

So with my excuses made, I definitely missed out on the Knockemout Series when they were first released. I’ve been wanting to try a Lucy Score book, and I found a copy of the second book in the series in my local thrift shop. I figured that was a sign, so I gave them a shot. And here we are! Now I’m truly sad to leave behind Knockemout and the characters I have fallen in love with reading this series!

The Knockemout Series

If you’re like me and are late to this game, jump to the Good Reads Synopsis below of the first book, Things We Leave Unfinished. I would definitely read these in order instead of considering them stand-alone reads. They are each based on a different couple, but there is an intertwining storyline that builds from the first book. The entire series is available on Kindle Unlimited for all my Kindle girlies!

Spoilers Past This Point

As much as I loved our Knoxy the tattooed hot barber and Naomi, our sweet, motherly flower child that started it all in the first book, I’d have to say my favorite couple was probably Sloane and Lucifer, I mean Lucian.

There was something about their story that tied my heart strings in knots – seeing Lucian accept Sloane and her love into his life. Feeling like he deserved a chance after all his father had done. Plus, she’s the cute, nerdy librarian who has a cat and loves books. What’s not to adore about Sloane?

Since I hate unnecessarily stubborn characters or miscommunication, I love a good “AHA moment” when a character realizes, “DUH, I LOVE THEM!” All three of the Knockemout boys have their own and gosh, I’m such a sucker for a HEA. I love it, give me a thousand more, please!

One thing I loved about this series in general is the huge friend/family group that Lucy Score develops and adds to throughout the series. The banter and bickering between them all had me cackling and cheesey smiling, so that’s an obvious win for me.

And I also loved having the extended epilogues after each book. What a fun surprise! So thank you for that, Lucy Score! Every reader’s dream, honestly!

Which is your favorite book of Knockemout?

I’m curious to know which Knockemout book couple was your favorite of the series. And if you have any book recs for my next Lucy Score read, leave them in the comments!

Goodreads Synopsis

Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score

Bearded, bad-boy barber Knox prefers to live his life the way he takes his coffee: Alone. Unless you count his basset hound, Waylon. Knox doesn’t tolerate drama, even when it comes in the form of a stranded runaway bride.

Naomi wasn’t just running away from her wedding. She was riding to the rescue of her estranged twin to Knockemout, Virginia, a rough-around-the-edges town where disputes are settled the old-fashioned way…with fists and beer. Usually in that order.

Too bad for Naomi her evil twin hasn’t changed at all. After helping herself to Naomi’s car and cash, Tina leaves her with something unexpected. The niece Naomi didn’t know she had. Now she’s stuck in town with no car, no job, no plan, and no home with an 11-year-old going on thirty to take care of.

There’s a reason Knox doesn’t do complications or high-maintenance women, especially not the romantic ones. But since Naomi’s life imploded right in front of him, the least he can do is help her out of her jam. And just as soon as she stops getting into new trouble he can leave her alone and get back to his peaceful, solitary life.

At least, that’s the plan until the trouble turns to real danger.

Collector’s Editions

And okay, I had to include these Collector’s Editions on this post! Look how gorgeous these are!

Earth and Ink

Thank you for visiting earth-and-ink.com! You can view all my latest blog posts here or visit my Earth and Ink Shop to view all my bookish merchandise. I also sell Reading Journals and Composition Notebooks, designed by yours truly, through my Amazon store. AND, if you like Bookish Stickers, be sure to check out my Redbubble Shop!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post My First Lucy Score Book – Welcome to Knockemout appeared first on Earth and Ink.

The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center

All of my Rom Com Girlies, if you miss the perfection of romantic comedies from the early 2000’s, this one is for YOU! If you read this book, please do me a big, big favor and DON’T skip the Author’s Note! It’s a must!

This is actually my second Katherine Center book. I read one of her other romance novels, The Lost Husband, a few years ago after seeing and loving the movie adaptation on Netflix. It had Josh Duhamel in it – what’s not to love?

But anyway, it was no surprise that I enjoyed reading one of her Rom Coms, and let me tell you – it was perfection! Katherine Center 1, Alex 0 – I cried like a baby in this one!

The writing was fun, the characters were quirky, and I laughed AND cried AND swooned! The perfect recipe for a well-written Rom Com, just sayin’.

If you want my spoiler-free hook, jump to the bottom of this post by clicking here!

Warning – Spoilers Past This Point

Katherine truly had my heart with this one, and she WON with that ending! She got me good! Also, if I didn’t get my HEA, I was definitely going to send her a crying emoji DM saying, “But you SAID!” lol

She really made me fall hard for Emma and Charlie, Emma’s quirkiness in particular for sure. I also loved diving into, “Hey, girl who reads romance books all the time, do you really know what it takes to write a Rom Com?!”

It was just a fun perspective as a reader, and all of the different scenes and swoony parts just came together so well.

And, of course, you also fall in love with Emma’s Dad. How could you not? For someone who went through something so tragic, he still manages to provide unconditional love to his family. Wow, that was a big one for me in this!

And lastly, how can we forget the man of the hour, who wrote the TERRIBLE Rom Com in the first place, Charlie?! I have to admit, I was changing between picturing Jake Johnson and Dermot Mulroney from New Girl as Charlie throughout this entire book! lol

Katherine really did get me though, because I cried like a baaaby when I thought Charlie was sick again. I’m a guillable sucker, but I don’t care. Thank you for the good cry, Katherine!

My Spoiler Free Hook
For my lovers of romantic comedies, this one’s for you!

Emma is the QUEEN of Rom Coms! She can list every requirement of getting to a Happy Ending, but her own “happily ever after” isn’t on any horizon in her future.

As a full time care taker for her father, Emma’s career as a screen writer is limited and not promising. But then she gets a call from her friend and agent – her favorite writer of all time has written a Rom Com, and it’s TERRIBLE.

Emma takes the once in a lifetime chance to work with her idol and write a Rom Com for the ages, but there’s just one problem…he doesn’t believe in love!

Don’t miss this heartworming story that will bring you back to your favorite romantic comedies of the past and reignite your love for the romance novel.

Get Your Copy

I just love this sprayed edge hardcover, and I miggghtt need a new shelf trophy since I listened to the audiook book. Get yours here!

Earth and Ink

Thank you for visiting earth-and-ink.com! You can view all my latest blog posts here or visit my Earth and Ink Shop to view all my bookish merchandise. I also sell Reading Journals and Composition Notebooks, designed by yours truly, through my Amazon store. AND, if you like Bookish Stickers, be sure to check out my Redbubble Shop!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The Rom-Commers appeared first on Earth and Ink.

The Outsider – Sequel to The Wastelander by E.S. Luck

The Outsider by @e.s.luck_author is the second book in The Wastelander series. This post-apocalyptic romance has spicy spice, is loaded with action, and has total “touch her and die” vibes! 

This was my first ever ARC read, and I was so excited that it was The Outsider! A friend on Instagram recommended The Wastelander, and gave me some helpful advice when I first started my Bookstagram account last year, so it’s just really cool to see things come full circle! I loved The Wastelander and was really excited to continue Claire and John’s journey in book two. 

The Outsider is available now – please go support this wonderful Indie Author! 

My Spoiler-Free Hook (If you’ve read The Wastelander): 

Claire, John, and Kimmy survived an attack by the Cult that occupies Claire’s old home – The Cave. 

Now they must return to the Valley, to John and Kimmy’s home and farm, Summerhurst. The trouble is, it’s unlikely Claire will be welcome there – she’s an outsider. But John will do anything to keep Claire safe, and they can’t lie in wait for the Cult’s next attack. So their trip through the Wasteland begins, even if that means going home empty-handed, without the PNCs John and Kimmy left to find two years ago. But the Wasteland is everything Claire was warned it would be as a child. Dangers lurk around every turn, from Cannibal camps to gangs.

Claire and John’s relationship will have to stand the harsh test of survival in order to make it home to Summerhurst, to a new beginning. 

My Thoughts

***SPOILERS AHEAD***
If you want a spoiler-free synopsis, jump to the goodreads summary I’ve included at the bottom of my post!

I’d like to start by saying just how proud I am of Claire – her character growth within book one was undeniable. But I think there is something to be said for The Outsider Claire! She leads John into the Cave to find life-saving medicine for Kimmy. Without hesitation, she dives head-first into a completely iced-over lake to save John. She fights for a place in an entirely new community that considers her an outsider. And of course, at the end of the book she literally runs barefoot into battle to buy John time. The Outsider Claire is my absolute hero! It’s a testament to E.S. Luck’s writing and development of her characters.

The Wasteland

Sometimes after the two main characters have finally come together, it feels like the story can go stagnant. John and Claire totally defy that notion, as their love and relationship just continues to bolster. I love how we not only continue to get those burning, spicy scenes in this book, but we also see these two characters realize this is IT for them! There’s no one else! Additionally, we witness this relationship unfold while the characters endure significant hurdles throughout the book. They leave the comfort of their camp to journey to the Valley, encountering dangers like gangs and the Cult. On top of that, the group fights to survey a cross-country journey during the winter, with limited food and shelter. And even if they make it to the Valley, there’s a high chance that Claire will be denied residency as an outsider.

The Valley, Summerhurst

Once they make it to the Valley, John uses the PNCs as leverage over leadership to let Claire stay on a trial basis. You definitely get a sense of “this is too good to be true” once Claire starts to find her rhythm at Summerhurst and begins teaching the community kids. She’s making friends; she’s found a new love for riding horses; she starts to lead the school and create new curriculum. I started to feel that sense of dread! The wedding and honeymoon provided that same premonition, leading to an absolutely crazy, dreaded cliffhanger ending! (But, I loved it!) John’s final chapter and scene in the book were bone-chilling.

Asha, the traitor

One note I’ll jump back around to is Asha’s re-introduction to the storyline. I was really hopeful that we would see Ahsa come around – thinking that she was just traumatized from her time surviving the Wasteland and the gang. However, as she continued to attempt to undermine John and Claire’s relationship, I couldn’t dismiss the feeling of “traitor”. However, I did think her eventual betrayal would stem from her fear of the Valley or past traumas. When it turned out her plan was a long time coming, it was disappointing in her role as Claire’s “friend”. Maybe she’ll have a chance for redemption by the end of the series? I do think she cares for both Claire and Kimmy in some tiny way. Guess we will find out!

“I’d become their worst fucking nightmare: a Wastelander, a brutal and savage outsider, with no mercy and nothing left to lose.”

My Final Thoughts

The Outsider was definitely action-packed, but I think one of my favorite parts was getting to meet the people of the Valley and learn about the way of life there. (Working the land and riding horses all day? Sign me up! lol) I have soaked up every minute of Claire and John’s journey in this series, and I can’t wait for the next book! I know there’s still so much more to learn about this post-apocalyptic world, and I can’t wait to dive in.

Quotes

Below are some of my favorite quotes from The Outsider! Sorry, I couldn’t choose!

• “But who will look after you, Wastelander? I don’t want to bring misery down on you.”

• “Claire looked like I’d slapped her. She bit her lip and nodded, staring back at the floor. I wanted her to hurt me back, to give me something to be mad about that wasn’t the fucking black hole of despair at losing my sister. My lifelong companion. She surprised me by wrapping her arms around me. I stiffened, but she didn’t stop. If anything, she held me tighter.”

• “Should I have been proud of my girlfriend for bitch slapping someone? Because I was.”

• “He sucked in a breath. “I don’t think I can be gentle.” “I don’t want gentle,” I insisted. “I want you.”

• “Because there’s nothing I wouldn’t do—nothing I wouldn’t risk—for you. I’d fight, kill, die, if it kept you safe and happy.” “You say that as if it’s a weakness,” I said quietly. He looked away. “Out here, it is.”

• “Don’t doubt that I could love you even on your darkest day. I can’t stop loving you any more than I can stop myself from breathing, and with my last breath, I’d tell you so.”

• “Hiraeth,” I said. “It’s a Welsh word that refers to a feeling of deep longing for a time or place that no longer exists. A kind of homesickness tinged with grief. I read it in a poem once.”

• “You don’t get it. I don’t give a shit if you’re finding the cure for all disease if it means I have to bury you, Claire. The world could be on fire, and I’d let it burn if it meant saving you. I know it’s selfish… and I don’t care.”

• “They’d stolen her from me. They would pay in blood. I’d set their whole world on fire and gladly watch it burn. They would suffer—from now until I had her back in my arms. I’d end all of them without a thought, without a regret. I smiled grimly. I’d become their worst fucking nightmare: a Wastelander, a brutal and savage outsider, with no mercy and nothing left to lose.”

Goodreads Synopsis

The Outsider, E.S. Luck

The world was on fire, and no one could save me but him.

Newly homeless after being forced to abandon their camp by a group of violent cultists, Claire, John, and Kimmy set off on a long, dangerous journey to the one place that they might find safety: the Valley.

Pursued by the cultists and menaced by raiders and other hazards of the Wasteland, their journey is abruptly cut short when Kimmy is mortally wounded, and the only hope left is also the worst option: a trip back to the ruins of the Cave, the one place where life-saving medicine might still exist. To obtain it, however, they must navigate the compound that the cult now calls home and face the rising threat of its shadowy leader and his twisted obsession with Claire.

As John and Claire traverse a violent, unforgiving post-apocalyptic landscape, the bond between them only deepens, and the fierce passion between them burns brightly. Her desperation for a home and family she can call her own is matched only by John’s determination to protect the woman he loves from a world that seems hellbent on stealing her away from him.

The Outsider is the second book in The Wastelander Series and is the direct sequel to The Wastelander. Like the first book, it is a steamy post-apocalyptic romance that follows John Madigan and Claire Ainsley as they work to build a life together in a post-apocalyptic world. It features tropes like touch her and die, forced proximity, rescue romance, opposites attract, and forbidden love.

Please note: this book ends on a significant cliffhanger.

Purchase Your Copy

Purchase your copy of The Outsider on Amazon here! Or, if you want to support the author directly, you can buy signed and regular copies from her online shop!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

About the Author

E.S. Luck is a copywriter by day and an author when no one is watching. She grew up in Ontario, Canada, where she still lives with her husband and their adorable dog, Rosie. She holds an honours degree in English Literature, and published an academic paper before moving on to fiction. When she’s not
reading, gaming, or eating peanut butter, she’s probably having an existential crisis while staring at her blinking cursor. She writes post-apocalyptic romance books that blend the dark backdrop of dystopian fiction with the character-driven narrative and irresistible steam of romance.

Visit her website at esluckauthor.com to learn more about her books!

Check out more of my blog posts about books I’ve enjoyed!

The post A Must Read for Post-Apocalyptic Romance Lovers appeared first on Earth and Ink.

First up, these Sage Green Sheer Curtains are absolutely beautiful! I love natural light so sheer curtains are the best for providing that sunshine while still giving some style and personal touch to a space.

Next, I thought this sherpa chair with its matching ottoman would be perfect for a cozy reading nook. It doesn’t take up too much space, but still provides a nice spot to read in peace. Plus I love the way it could match multiple types of spaces.

This floral rug is perfect! I love how the beige could match any color scheme! And it’s washable!

Then, I found this standing flower lamp, and I knew it would be perfect for this space!

You could go in so many directions to decorate the walls, but I thought simple yet elegant might work best. I love this matching three-piece watercolor wildflower set. The nice thing about these is they can go side-by-side if you’re limited on wall space but could also be scattered about the room.

Okay, this flower pillow is adorable and this floral throw looks so soft and cozy. They are both perfect accents for the reading nook chair and match the space!

These flower pots & book-shaped vases are just stunning. I want them for my own shelves now!

Lastly, sometimes you need an extra splash of wall decor if you have the wall space. These little decorative butterflies scream Elain to me! And the hanging pothos with lights is just so cozy and magical.

What do you think of this collection for your spring reading corner inspiration? Let me know in the comments!

Earth and Ink

Thank you for visiting earth-and-ink.com! You can view all my latest blog posts here or visit my Earth and Ink Shop to view all my bookish merchandise. I also sell Reading Journals and Composition Notebooks, designed by yours truly, through my Amazon store. AND, if you like Bookish Stickers, be sure to check out my Redbubble Shop!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Elain’s Spring Library appeared first on Earth and Ink.

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

The Unhoneymooners is a must read for Rom Com lovers like me! This is my second Christina Lauren book, and I’m totally in love with their work now!

Olive is heading on her twin sister’s honeymoon….with her new brother-in-law’s older brother….who she can’t stand…and they have to pretend to be married…what could go wrong, right?

If you love the fake marriage trope, forced proximity, and great banter, then this read is for you!

****SPOILERS AHEAD*****
Jump to the bottom of my post for the spoiler-free GoodReads Synopsis!

I absolutely loved Ethan and Olive in this book! Hello miscommunication on Olive’s end from the get-go, but I thought it definitely added to the “loathe to love you” theme and really made things sweet when Ethan admitted he immediately had a crush on her from their first meeting!

I love a good fake dating and forced proximity trope, and I thought this one was done so well. I laughed out loud and snorted like an idiot at all of Ethan and Olive’s endeavors in paradise, fielding not only her new boss but Ethan’s ex.

Let’s talk “reality” for a minute once Ethan and Olive returned home. I knew all the sunshine and roses wasn’t going to last once they got home and “the Dane problem” resurfaced. At first, I was honestly a little hurt myself that Ethan didn’t believe Olive BUT BUT BUT for all of you who were like “WTF Ethan” let me say – I thought it was 100% more realistic that Ethan was in denial. I don’t think it was necessarily that Ethan didn’t believe Olive or thought she was lying. I think he was just in huge denail about the true nature of his little brother. And let’s be honest, this is a realistic take on a relationship between siblings. Especially for someone who is a bit of an enabler or who always sees the good in someone- even though they are truly toxic or bad in nature. So yes, I think it was realistic for Ethan to be in denial, even though I know we all wanted him to be on Olive’s side.

Olive even recognizes this herself, comparing it to her relationship with Amy. However, Ethan’s redeeming quality is that he absolutely owns up to his mistake. And hey, realistically, we all make mistakes. I also think there’s something to be said for Olive’s character development. Two people who were significant in her life had a hard time thinking her pessimistic nature wasn’t getting the best of her. She recognizes that – while also maintaining that Dane is a dirtbag, which he is – but makes those changes for herself. Good for Olive, honestly.

Overall, I loved the themes in this book. Good and bad luck, making choices that control your own destiny, and finding your person and appreciating them for who they are – so many great aspects to a fun and loving read! Oh yeah, and I absolutely loved all the Harry Potter references.

Have you read The Unhoneymooners and what did you think?

Quotes

“I want to say something sassy, but the only coherent thought that comes to mind is how insulting it is that eyelashes like his were wasted on Satan’s Errand Boy”

“I stare up at him, hating the tiny fluttering that gets going in my chest because he knows the Harry Potter reference. I knew he was a book lover, but to be the same kind of book lover I am? It makes my insides melt.”

“He tastes like cheap alcohol and contradictions, but it is still hands-down the best kiss of my life.”

“You checked out my chest.”
“Of course I did. It’s like having two other people up here with us. I don’t want to be rude.”

“Despite things being insane and hard and messy, I don’t think I’ve ever liked myself more than I do now. It’s the strangest feeling to be proud simply because I’m taking care of me and mine. Is this what it’s like to grow up?”

Good Reads Synopsis

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

Olive is always unlucky: in her career, in love, in…well, everything. Her identical twin sister Ami, on the other hand, is probably the luckiest person in the world. Her meet-cute with her fiancé is something out of a romantic comedy (gag) and she’s managed to finance her entire wedding by winning a series of Internet contests (double gag). Worst of all, she’s forcing Olive to spend the day with her sworn enemy, Ethan, who just happens to be the best man.

Olive braces herself to get through 24 hours of wedding hell before she can return to her comfortable, unlucky life. But when the entire wedding party gets food poisoning from eating bad shellfish, the only people who aren’t affected are Olive and Ethan. And now there’s an all-expenses-paid honeymoon in Hawaii up for grabs.

Putting their mutual hatred aside for the sake of a free vacation, Olive and Ethan head for paradise, determined to avoid each other at all costs. But when Olive runs into her future boss, the little white lie she tells him is suddenly at risk to become a whole lot bigger. She and Ethan now have to pretend to be loving newlyweds, and her luck seems worse than ever. But the weird thing is that she doesn’t mind playing pretend. In fact, she feels kind of… lucky.

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post A Must Read For Rom Com Lovers! appeared first on Earth and Ink.

I was feeling inspired by the last-minute gift-givers of the world. My husband and I have an agreement that we don’t spend money on Valentine’s Day gifts and save our dollars for our anniversary, vacations, etc BUT if we did celebrate, this is definitely a list I would be sending him with a “Hint. Hint.” Hahah!

So, if you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your partner and want to give them a last-minute push in the right direction, I’ve got you covered! 🙂 OR, send something adorable to your favorite Galentine for tomorrow!

Check out these completely adorable bookish finds I found on Amazon – 1 and 2 day shipping of course with Prime! And every one one of these is under $35 so you won’t break the bank!

Book Accessories You Need!

Leather Heart Bookmarks
These are adorable!

Personalized Hand Embroidered Corner Bookmark
The embroidery just adds a personal touch!

Kindle Carrying Case

This one’s for all my Kindle girlies – so many cute patterns, too!

Book Annotating Set
I wish I had the patience for annotating because l love this color scheme!

Kindle Page Turner
I’ve heard these are game changer for reading on a Kindle!

Rechargeable Book Light
Who doesn’t need a book light for emergency situations?!

Upgrade Your Book Nook

TBR Cart
I’ve secretly been wanting one of these, and I just love this color!

Rechargeable Lamp
These little lamps are so perfect for a book nook or shelf!

Pride & Prejudice Book Vase
I’m in love with this Steel Mill & Co book decor!

Classics Ceramic Book Planter
Such a cute idea for both fake and live plants.

Special Editions & Books Sets on a Deal

Puffin In Bloom Jane Austen Set
This is the perfect gift set for an Austen lover! So beautiful!

Onyx Storm Deluxe Limited Edition
If you didn’t snag this edition already, here’s your chance on a deal!

The New Hunger Games Special Edition Set
Okay, this is the one item on this list over $35. I wasn’t sure how I felt about these at first, but now I’m thoroughly convinced I need them.

Lightlark Collector’s Edition
Okay, this Collector’s Edition is stunning!

I’d love to know if any of these are on your Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day wishlist! Let me know in the comments!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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I truly didn’t have words when I finished this book! This was so beautifully written – the world-building was intricate and unique, and Raeve’s character pulled me in from the beginning.

I listened to the audiobook for this one, and it was really well-done. However, I would note that the audiobook was a little tough to follow along with because of all the world-building. I usually can keep up with audiobooks no problem, but even I was struggling with some of the terminology and names/places.

So, with that being said, I would probably recommend the physical or e-book for this one or in combination with the audiobook – that way you can reference the terminology as needed.

If you love an intricate fantasy realm with elemental powers, dragons, bad ass assassins, eternal love, and an impending rebellion, then this one is for you!

*** SPOILERS AHEAD – If you want the spoiler-free Goodreads synopsis, jump to the bottom of my post!

I was definitely shaken at that ending, and now I cannot wait for book two. I have to admit that Elluin’s mysterious ending and Raeve’s mysterious past were KILLING me though throughout the book – I’m truly an impatient reader. EVERY time Kaan was about to reveal her past, she would divert or the storyline would turn. I know the whole point is that Raeve can’t or doesn’t want to face the pain of Elluin’s past, but it was torturing me lol.

I think I’m most excited to see if Raeve bonds with Lirri in the next book (or maybe we get to see a healed Slatra?). The dragons are probably my favorite part of the book.

Now that we know Elluin’s downfall, will we get to see Raeve accept her truth early on in the next book? I sure hope so, but we at least now know that Kyzari is her (And Kaan’s) daughter. I am so proud of myself because I guessed that Nee belonged to Kyzari once we got to a certain point in the book.

I’m still unsure of how Elluin died – maybe I missed that – but I don’t think King’s betrayal was super clear besides that he blackmailed Elluin into marrying Kaan’s brother instead.

I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments!

Characters

Raeve/Elluin: I do love Raeve – it’s just her refusal to acknowledge Elluin’s past (or her current love for Kaan) is killllliiinnnnggg me.

The Other: I also hope we get further clarity on “The Other” within Raeve – is that part of her completely new since her rebirth or is it just a part of Elluin that remains hidden within Raeve because she doesn’t like to face the pain and flames? And okay, that last scene was amazing. Rekk deserved what he got.

Kaan: Wow, who wouldn’t love Kaan. The King of eternal love. The man literally spent years searching for every piece of Slatra’s shattered moon to piece her back together in honor of Elluin, his one true love. His love and respect for Elluin is just incredible to me, but it really shines through with how he treats and honors Raeve.

Veya: I think we have only just seen the beginning of Veya, and I really want to see her relationship with Raeve develop. I still want to know the mystery behind the bangal though and how she got it/why she got rid of it.

Quotes

Honestly, the writing in this book is so beautiful and emotional and moving and hilarious. But here are just a few:

“Chase death, Moonbeam. And I pray your bloodlust brings you the same sense of peace I feel just knowing you exist.”

“He’s fire and brimstone. I’m shattered ice. Our collision is steam and destruction, destined to dissipate, but I’ll gladly burn beneath him until the world comes crumbling down.”

“Sadness is like stones that stack inside you, making it harder to move.”

“I knew a female who died. Tragically. Whose lifeless body was sailed into the sky by the adoring beast at your back with my torn-out heart in her fucking fist,” he rasps, lifting his hand into a claw that he shakes in my face. “Her name was Elluin, and she laughed with the wind, cried with the rain. She angered with fire and bellowed with the ground.”

“but I’d die knowing I left something bright behind in this beautiful world sketched in so many shades of ugly.  I also like the idea of being able to fall from the sky and squash somebody if they piss me off.”

“So many assholes, so few fingers to count them all.”

GoodReads Synopsis

When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker

The Creators did not expect their beloved dragons to sail skyward upon their end. To curl into balls just beyond gravity’s grip, littering the sky with tombstones. With moons.

They certainly did not expect them to fall.

As a valued Elding Blade of the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, Raeve’s job is to kill. To complete orders and never get caught. When a renowned bounty hunter is employed by The Crown to capture a member of the Ath, Raeve’s world is turned upside down. Blood spills, hearts break, and Raeve finds herself at the mercy of the Guild of Nobles—a group of dual-beaded elementals who intend to turn her into a political statement. Only death will set her free.

Crushed beneath a mourning weight, Kaan Vaegor took the head of a king and donned his melted crown. Now on a tireless quest to assuage the never-ebbing ache in his chest, his hunt for a moonshard lures him into the belly of Gore’s notorious prison where he stumbles upon something that rips apart his perception of reality. A shackled miracle with eyes full of rage and blood on her hands.

The echo of the past sings louder than the Creators themselves, and even Raeve can’t ignore the truths blaring at her from a warmer, happier time.
However.
There’s more to this song than meets the eye, and some truths …
They’re too poisonous to swallow.

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One of my goals for this blog is to create some “inspired” posts where I picture myself as your personal shopper and put together a list of items that I would want and you might need! With all of the Onyx Storm excitement, I thought it might be a good idea to compile some Empyrean Inspired Bookshelf Decor since you now have the third installment to add to your shelf – assuming you’ve binge read it already, of course :).

I was inspired by dragons for this one of course, but I also found some moody and magical items I thought would work well with the Empyrean or any dragon related series.

Bookshelf Decor

These dragon inserts are absolutely adorable!

I thought both of these signs were so cool! I personally really love the lamp/lit look, but the laser etched wood is beautiful too!

This Dragon Wall Decor is different and so cool. I can imagine it on the wall next to a floating or hanging shelf!

I used to love trinkets and figurines growing up, and both of these speak to me! They double as little boxes as well. So cute!

It’s so cool what people with 3D printers can do! Both of these are on Etsy. I like how you can change the colors of the eyes and dragon.

Bookends

I love bookends, and I thought this was a cool variety! The classic metal looks sleek on a shelf, but I do love the ornate look of the green statue. The little rounded ends are super cool too, but might not be big enough for your larger hardback editions.

Dragon and Decorative Lamps

If you really want to stick to the dragon theme on your shelf, each of these is unique! I personally really like the wooden carving but the two light up lamps with color changing abilities is super cool. I can imagine these on your shelf at night.

Hear me out – when I think of a ward stone, I picture this or a rock! I know these are salt lamps, BUT they really do put off a cool ombieance. And I love the color changing. I’m actually really obsessing over this Quartz Lamp with the different color stones.

Then I was thinking, if you wanted less of a “fantasy” or “dragon” look, but still wanted the darker mood with texture, this little battery powered lamp could totally do the trick!

Or you can go with the look I absolutely love, and go the flameless candle route. The fact that these all come with remotes now and you can put them on timers is incredible. I do love the black look, but I have to say the Crystal Texture ones kind of look like fire to me, just saying. And the black tapered candles are just so gothic fantasy, I love it.

Neat Nicknacks

I thought both of these were unique and would stand out on your shelf. The Fourth Wing inspired Resin Dagger is just so cool to me – you could display it vertically or horizontally across the front of your book spines.

Dust Jackets

And saving the best for last, these officially licensced Dust Jackets by bluelybooshop are absolutely breath taking. I really want these for myself now, and I’m of course hopefull we will see an Onyx Storm one soon. I love the choice betwen the light and the dark! Which one is your favorite? I need help deciding!

Okay, let me know your favorites and if you plan to get any of these for your shelf! Happy decorating! I’d love to see your final products or shelf inspo!

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I’m very stubborn when it comes to prequels and retellings. I seem to avoid them at all costs, but then I never regret reading them once I do. The Hunger Games is a great example. I avoided Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes like the plague because I hated the idea of Snow’s perspective; once I actually read the book, I ended up loving it. You’d think I’d learn my lesson by now!

But after I finished Powerless by Lauren Roberts, I was very, very tempted to jump straight into Reckless and skip over her retelling, Powerful.

However, my friends on Bookstagram have yet to guide me wrong, and they all told me I should not skip Powerful! We had a few snow days last week, so I decided to give it the shot it deserved!

Just to preface, Powerful is the retelling of Powerless from Adena’s perspective. I thought I would be bored reading the same story twice, but honestly, everything you take in is pretty new and different coming from Adena! And you get to meet a new character, Mak, whom I just love!

I have zero regrets taking the time to read this book, and it was truthfully a pretty quick read! Also I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that Lauren Roberts has officially published a new special edition of Powerful that matches the rest of the books! If you don’t know already, the current version of powerful is much smaller (in length but most importantly in height) than the rest of the series. She calls it the itty-bitty edition, which I love! lol But the new special edition will match the rest of the series in height and design a little better. Plus it’s got pretty sprayed edges and piece of pretty ribbon as a bookmark.

I’m linking them both here for you! You can pre-order the new special edition now, but the current itty-bitty, original edition is still available! If you’re anything like me, you’ll love having the new one that matches but will always appreciate your original, first edition.

***SPOILERS AHEAD***

Okay, so if you don’t want to read spoilers from this point forward, skip to the bottom of my post for the Goodreads synopsis! I didn’t plan on a full summary and post for this book, but I did want to point out that the ending of Powerless retold from Adena and Mak’s perspectives really got to me more than reading the first book through. I definitely cried, not just for poor Mak but gosh, for Adena! Her death is just such a tragedy and her hands……yeah, cue the tears. This quote at the very end got to me too:

“In the end, it was all light and dark, loud and soft. I knew nothing but the memory of those I loved. One, a friend. The other, unfinished. And that alone is what I took with me into the next life. But I watched, warm and bright and high above. Just as he promised.“

I did wonder why we didn’t get more of Adena and Pae during Powerless after Adena comes to the castle, so this does make a little more sense. I just can’t imagine Mak won’t play some kind of role moving forward with his powers! Also, I KNOW Kai noticed Adena, so why isn’t he questioning that at the end of Powerless….maybe that’s to come in Reckless. Also, will we see more of Al from the dungeon? I’m excited to find out!

Let me know in the comments if you’ve read Powerful and your thoughts!

Goodreads Synopsis

Set during the time of the New York Times bestseller Powerless, fan favorite Adena gets a story all her own as she attempts to survive on the streets of Loot…and falls for a mysterious—and dangerous—Elite.

Adena and Paedyn have always been inseparable. Fate brought them together when they were young, but friendship ensured they would always protect each other and the home they built in the slums of Loot. But now Paedyn—an Ordinary—has been selected for the Purging Trials, which means almost certain death.

Now alone in Loot, Adena must fend for herself. After attempting to steal, she’s rescued by a mysterious man from the market. Mak’s shadowy past and secretive power set him apart from the other low-level Elites of Loot. And as the pair team up to see their loved ones before the Trials, the quest tests their loyalty, their love, and their lives.

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