Ghosts of the Provence by Janna Ruth

They don’t call it a wedding in Provence unless ghosts crash your party. Weddings are a recipe for disaster, and my sister’s upcoming nuptials in Provence to the man who betrayed me are no exception. But I’m here to play nice. After all, my own love life is a mess, torn as I am between Gaspar, my charming ghost boyfriend, and Sébastien, the reclusive ghost whisperer I can't seem to resist. Adding to the chaos, the ruthless leader of the ghost police will be there too. If he discovers what I did to his whisper ghost, this wedding might be my funeral. Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Provence, the fifth book of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Provence, for some spooky action by the sea.

Ghosts of the Opera by Janna Ruth

Love, murder, and deceit at the opera—in Paris, even the ghosts have to play their parts. Betrayed by my family, abandoned by my boyfriend, and on the ghost police’s black list—I’ve hit rock bottom. To escape GoPol, I have to pretend I’ve lost my ability to see ghosts, and worse, fake a romance with Sébastien, the last person I want to get cosy with. Easier said than done. We can’t even enjoy a night at the opera without being thrust into spectral drama when the prima donna drops dead on stage. Was it an accident, a rival’s murderous vendetta, or has the phantom of the opera claimed another victim? With ghosts involved, Sébastien and I become reluctant detectives, racing against the clock to expose the killer before GoPol picks up my trail. In this dance of deception, every step risks exposure. If GoPol discovers I still hang out with ghosts, my fate is sealed. Can Sébastien and I solve the murder and keep my secret buried, or will this masquerade be my final act? Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Opera, the fourth book of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today for a haunting night at the opera.

Ghosts of the Resistance by Janna Ruth

I’ve given the ghosts everything. Now they’re coming for my powers. All my life, I’ve talked to ghosts, helped them fulfil their last wishes, and made friends with them. I thought I had a good grip on the afterlife. Boy, was I wrong. There are things afoot in the beyond that make my nightmares have nightmares. After wiping a powerful ghost from existence, his followers are out for blood. My blood. As if that weren’t bad enough, my allies cannot be trusted. Down in the catacombs, the Knight of Bones is seizing control of powerful ghost dwellings for reasons that make my stomach turn. Meanwhile my acquaintances at GoPol have branded me an unnecessary risk to be exterminated. My only chance of escaping with my life and my powers intact is to join the Resistance. If I can’t convince the rogue ghosts and whisperers hiding in the old bunkers of Paris to help me, I’ll lose everything. My ghost friends, my ability, but most importantly, the love of my life. Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Resistance, the third book of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today to embark on your catacomb adventure.

Ghosts of the Crusade by Janna Ruth

Lies, deception, and betrayal — if you thought the living were bad, wait until you meet the dead. After narrowly escaping the catacombs of Paris, I plan to stay away from ghosts. I will, right after I’ve settled a newly departed in the afterlife, got rid of the ghost police unit who have taken an interest in my talents, and completed on last favour. Of course, with my luck, that last favour is a bitch. Somehow I promised the last Grandmaster of the Templars, who was burned at the stake for devil worship, an introduction to my famous dead friends at the Panthéon. Before I know it, I’m chasing lost treasures, righting seven-century-old wrongs, and getting sucked into a spectral power struggle that could forever blur the lines between life and death. Everybody wants my help, but not all of them need me alive. Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Crusade, the second book of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today to embark on your catacomb adventure.

Inside Every Circle by Eli Evans

bronze-age historical fantasy exploring themes of identity, privilege, quest for meaning, and the struggle to find a voice. For centuries, the Seven Cities have enjoyed peace and prosperity. A mute scribe, an orphaned prophetess, an elderly politician, and an egomaniacal autocrat independently pursue glory, fame, and forbidden knowledge as they approach the end of the age. Will their paths lead to enduring peace or unspeakable horror? Atnan, a mute scribe from an obscure village obsesses over mysterious scrolls he thinks may hold the key — to what, he isn’t sure. In an attempt to decipher them, he defies the village elders. Outcast, he travels to the capital of the Seven Cities, uncovering dangerous ideas about history, science, and mathematics along the way. The spirits assigned him a riddle, which he intends to answer. Taláni, an ambitious warlord, unites his scattered people. His plan: to conquer the Seven Cities and sacrifice its residents to his god, the Blood Red Sun. Guided by his mother's divinations, he knows the spirits will assist him as he topples rivals and builds an army. They are ready to cross the river and ascend into glory – but are the spirits guiding him or taking control? Selolo, a concubine in Taláni's harem, dreams of fiery destruction. Unwilling to tell her ruler, she leverages a false tale of glorious conquest into a position by his side, the world-queen-in-waiting – unless Taláni's mother exiles her first. By day she navigates the dangers of her new position, and at night she endures more oracular dreams. If the spirits wish to speak, why send visions, signs, and symbols? Mekvat, the Sage Prime, has served the Seven Cities so long that his colleagues eagerly await his retirement or death, whichever comes first. Worried about his legacy, he tackles an audacious final project: constructing a monument. Facing problems mostly of his own making, he is met by a wandering mute with a bag of scrolls no one has seen in centuries. Now Mekvat must decide if this young Atnan's wild ideas about the world are an opportunity or an obstacle. Then an invading horde encircles the city! Histories, prophecies, and worldviews will collide. Ancient monsters will awaken. Signs will appear in the earth and heavens. Spirits and rulers enact their plans, and ordinary lives hang in the balance. A lowly scholar looks to the sky, seeking answers. Will he and his compatriots unravel the mystery of past, present, and future before it's too late? Eli Evans's thought-provoking debut novel imagines an alternate world of complex, relatable characters and the spirits who protect or threaten them. Fans of Princess Mononoke or the works of C.S. Lewis and Frank Herbert will find something here to enjoy.

A fellowship of Bakers & Magic by J Penner

A human, a dwarf and an elf walk into a bake-off… In the heart of Adenashire, where elfish enchantments and dwarven delights rule, Arleta Starstone, a human confectionist works twice as hard perfecting her unique blend of baking and apothecary herbs. So when an orc neighbor secretly enters her creations into the prestigious Elven Baking Battle, Arleta faces a dilemma. Being magicless, her participation in the competition could draw more scowls than smiles. And if Arleta wants to prove her talent and establish her culinary reputation, this human will need more than just her pastry craft to sweeten the odds. While competing, she'll set off on a journey of mouthwatering pastries, self-discovery, heartwarming friendships and romance, while questioning whether winning the Baking Battle is the true prize. Escape to for a delightful cozy fantasy where every twist is a treat and every turn a step closer to home.

Shrouded Guard by Amanda N. Newman

Living a double life is never easy…especially when it’s shrouded with secrets and lies. Hunter Wildmoor lives under two identities. By day, he’s viewed only as a troubled bad boy at Hydhexa School of Magic. At night, he’s the legendary Shrouded Guard, courtesy of being raised in and training with the Guardian’s Guild since he was old enough to pick up a staff. But guild life isn’t easy. The training regimen is brutal, the missions demanding, and being the Guild Master’s right-hand man only brings on more pressure. As if it isn’t enough to balance schoolwork and guild duties, by order of his uncle, Hunter is forced to keep his affiliation with the Guardian’s Guild a secret, an easy enough task for Hydhexa’s main outcast. At least, it was until a new student comes to Hydhexa and insists that she wants to be Hunter’s friend, no matter how much he tries to push her away. It can’t last, though. After being assigned to a group project with two of the most accepting people he’s ever met, Hunter can’t help but find himself growing close to his newfound friends. His guild responsibilities become more demanding and his already abusive uncle only becomes more violent. To make it worse, he’s set his sights on Hunter’s new friends as potential guild recruits. But Hunter has to do something, even if it means risking his own safety and uncovering some of the guild’s darkest secrets along the way.

Guns & Scones by Darcia G. Laucerica

In a city ruled by magic wielding families, Arawn Stant is thrust into power when his father´s abilities run dry. Taking care of his neighbours and their businesses is challenge enough. But his main concern is the school´s upcoming bake sale. He promised his niece he would bring something homemade. The problem is... Arawn could burn water. He must learn to bake before the weekend arrives. It´s a good thing a little bakery just opened in his territory. And that the owner, Alejandra, is terribly cute.

Madame Eldridge’s Wayward Home For Unruly Boys by Benjamin Ryan

Deep in the heart of Virginia’s dense backwoods, the Wayward Home for Unruly Boys hides more than just troubled youth. Under Madame Eldridge’s watchful eye, three strict rules govern her behavior program: ​ 1. What happens here stays here. 2. You must complete all eight steps—no exceptions allowed. 3. Forget your name; you’ll be known only by your problem. ​ But, there’s one unspoken rule that sends shivers down the boys' spines: never enter the forbidden third-floor bedroom of the boy who vanished, leaving nothing behind but whispers. When Vandalize and Stealer defy this warning, they uncover a treasure trove of bewitched artifacts, each with a strange and powerful ability. Using these relics, the boys tackle Madame Eldridge’s whimsical—and often bizarre—challenges, only to learn magic always demands its price. ​ Amidst the chaos, Fibbsy stumbles upon a peculiar object that sends him hurtling back in time, revealing an unfathomable truth about Madame Eldridge, the eerie town, and the missing boy’s fate. But who will trust the words of a liar? ​ Bound by the house’s darkest mysteries, Fibbsy, Defiance, Slob, and Secret form an unlikely friendship as they race to unveil the shrouded secrets surrounding the Wayward Home. Together, they confront their deepest fears, uncovering that the real magic lies in facing their own personal demons—and each other.

The Missing Piece by Zaylan Flynn

All Astra knows is she woke up in the woods while it was raining. She had no name other than the one given to her by the druids. She had no memories before waking up. Five years later, she has made a life and runs into someone who seems convinced she is their missing person. Dovan was the personal guard for Ally. He was one step away from becoming a knight and having the hand of the princess. Until she went missing. No one knows what happened or where she went. He went out with the rest of the party to look for her. After five years of traveling from island to island, he finally found her. The downfall is that she has no idea who he or she is.

Under the Dragon Moon by Mawce Hanlin

To break the thread of weaver’s fate, those who witness must weave anew… Mael Nguyen doesn’t believe in fate, but he does believe in magic. His entire life revolves around the study of the arcane—spells and rituals, potions and illusions. As far as Mael is concerned, all he needs is a book in one hand and magic in the other. Anything outside of his bookshop, hidden away in the streets of New Orleans, isn’t worth his attention. But when a strange human stumbles into his life and hires him for a job, bringing along his blinding smile and curious magic, Mael finds that Fate is just as dangerous as Magic. Leo Greyson refuses to believe in fate, but he desperately wishes to believe in magic. As a small time rockstar, full time radio host, Leo has never been one to shy away from experience and adventure. He’s always lived his life on the edge—always moving, never standing still. But when his twin sister is murdered, and he gains custody of her strangely magical daughter, that constant motion comes to a screeching halt. Instead, he is launched into an entirely new world hidden right beneath his nose, and Leo finds himself wondering if Fate really does exist, and if she’s led him right where he needs to be. A queer take on magic, murder, and romance, fans of The Dresden Files, Howls Moving Castle, and A Marvelous Light will find family, acceptance, and a fantastical new world to get lost in within the pages of Under the Dragon Moon, the first book in the Belamour Archives Saga.

The Little Goblin by Joanne Lecuyer

Picture book for ages 5-7. With all the courage he can muster, a little goblin, named Gorzak, sets out to find a rare shroom to help save his maba and stumbles upon an unlikely helper!

Unfixed by Amy L. Sauder

Julia Trencher has died. Twice. But Geppetto’s Circus of Strange Marvels offers hope of others like her—a place she could be welcomed, celebrated even. She didn’t know it would lead to herself and the circus vanishing amidst a mysterious fire. Now, all that remains are the historical circus wagons at the edge of town and a darkness that a young man Max can’t seem to shake. As Max investigates the enchanted circus claims and the Trenchers abandoned mansion, the line between villains and sidekicks blurs, and revealing the circus’ secrets may come at the cost of confronting his own.

Taterskin & The Eco Defenders by Blackbird Crow Raven

Book 2 of the "Taterskin & The Eco Defenders" series (“Tell it to Future Generations”) takes up with the Eco Defenders following up on their earlier adventures by 1) Preventing the American Civil War in 1861, after which a slave they free joins them; 2) Saving the Indians from being massacred at Wounded Knee in 1890, following which Chapawee, a Sioux Indian, joins the Eco Defenders; 3) Putting an end to the practice of vivisection (experimentation on live animals) in 1903; 4) Coming to the aid of exploited workers in 1911 Manhattan, saving hundreds from the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire; and 5) Traveling to the Amazon Basin in 1978 to protect and preserve the Amazon rainforest. Taterskin & The Eco Defenders, told in “first canine” by the titular character, a Labrador Retriever, is a Cli-Fi (ultimately utopian) fantasy of a few humans and several talking animals who travel through time and space to make the past—and thus the future—a better place. The improvements effected by the Eco Defenders benefit not just the earth itself, but also mistreated humans and animals.

They of the West (Scrublands Book 1) by Dani Finn

Dralen never could leave well enough alone. He knows better than to go near the canyons. That’s where the Logans live, wild men of the hills said to devour lone travelers in frenzied midnight feasts. But the mysterious cloaked figure he saw down by the canyons had to be there for a reason. And he can’t get his Urpa’s poem out of his head: something about “They of the West” and “Treasures buried in memory’s mine.” Folks used to mine for topaz in the canyons, and other stones too. Magical ones, some said. But the Logans and the cave-in put an end to all that. Dralen knows he’ll get in trouble if he goes after the cloaked figure, and he’s doubly sure he doesn’t care. Maybe They know something everyone else has forgotten in this little nothing town. Dralen is called to follow Them, but the closer he gets to unraveling the mystery, the more it seems his own journey is just beginning… They of the West is a fantasy novella set in a brand-new world, a coming-of-age story about friendship, family, and self-discovery. It is the first book in The Scrublands, a planned trio of novellas. It is appropriate for older young adult and adult audiences; content warnings include hunting/butchery, smoking, drinking, cursing, and brief references to sexual topics.

Etched in Stone by Sarah Alserhaid

Imagine if who you thought you were wasn't your true identity. That is what Jade and her sister Amber discover soon after inheriting their multimillion-dollar company from their late parents. Gathering clues to understand the strange coincidences and answer the questions left unanswered for years, they come across the truth and learn that everything is two-fold. With knowledge comes consequences. The Parker sisters must navigate this new information while keeping their parents' legacy alive and each other safe. Etched in Stone is a harrowing and magic-rich novel that takes you on an incredible journey of self-discovery and teaches the power of heritage, choices, owning one's gifts, and the ultimate lesson of forgiveness.

Somewhere Out There by Caroline Astiago

Benjamin didn't survive the battle of Camlann. Nor did his mentor and best friend Merlin. Nor did King Arthur. The only difference was they died, and Benjamin continued existing, forced to take on their Guardianship of a realm torn apart by war with desperate Gods. But the world didn't end - although it came close a few times. Centuries have slipped by and there hasn't been much need for Benjamin’s skills as a warlock, but at least he's had his magic, Ambrosius, for company. They've done their best to keep the realm safe, but everything changes one Halloween in Oxford when Benjamin meets April, a vampire hunter who isn't quite what she seems. As the universe begins to unravel and the Gods seek to ensure their continued freedom, Benjamin must confront conflicts of morality and his own inner demons to find the truth and save his realm. Rooted in the Arthurian legends and Norse mythology, Somewhere Out There is an enthralling exploration of betrayals, identity, tangled relationships, LGBTQ+ themes, loss and love. With a dash of horror and humour, this adult urban fantasy is as much a psychological journey as a supernatural adventure set in an ever-changing, magic-soaked world.

Atlantis Land of Dreams by Edale Lane

A handful of heroes; an impending cataclysm. Can Ariel and her friends save the world as they know it? Communicating with plants and animals has become a rare gift, one Ariel cherishes. She loves her farm and her family, especially her three-hundred-year-old oma. As she grapples to preserve her connection with the spirit world, she realizes something is dreadfully wrong. Lysandra, a gifted healer, lives in the most splendid city in the world, overflowing with culture and prosperity. Despite her meaningful career, she misses the love of her youth whom she left behind. Now something is causing more illnesses and deaths at increasingly younger ages than typical for Atlantans. When both Ariel and Lysandra are called to the Ring of Stones for a meeting of scholars, masters, and gifted individuals, they reunite for the first time in thirty years. Pushing personal feelings aside, they must focus on discovering what’s wrong with their world and help fix it. Making a startling discovery, Ariel brings an ominous report to the council. Can the sharpest minds and most compassionate hearts of Atlantis create a plan to save their civilization, or is it doomed to be obliterated from the face of the earth forever? Captivating storyteller Edale Lane brings you an epic historical fantasy warmed with a second-chance sapphic romance. Atlantis, Land of Dreams, will transport you to a world of wonder and imagination, where myths of the past come to life and inspire a brighter vision for our future. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and marvel at the beauty and magic of this legendary place that has captured the hearts and minds of generations.

Merely Mortal by Michelle M. Pillow

A gripping new first-person POV urban fantasy romance series by NY Times and USA Today bestselling author, Michelle M. Pillow. All I want is a simple, normal life. Unfortunately, normalcy is a luxury I can’t afford as a lowly human born into a powerful supernatural family embroiled in magic. They’ve always been quick to remind me that I have an expiration date. Imagine everyone’s surprise when it’s me standing above their graves, not the other way around. The fire that took their lives wasn’t my fault, yet everyone is blaming me, especially the vampires. Now I have a target on my back and a bounty on my head. Without the protection of my family, I’m caught up in a tangled web of supernatural dynasties and arcane power struggles. So when a handsome stranger and his young daughter take pity on me and offer me a ride, I don’t say no. It’s a mistake. One I hope doesn’t cost us all our lives. Sometimes, being merely mortal really sucks.

Spark Of Magic by Hailey Gonzales

Gryphons And Grimoires

My name’s Gwen and apparently, I’m a witch. But there’s a catch. The coven I stumbled into says I have to win my spot. Even worse, I’m up against the handsome but broody son of two powerful mages—Zane Casimir. If I lose, my memory will be erased. This world is more dangerous than I imagined. The magic council hates me for my weak magic. The fae queen prides herself on tormenting me. And my competitors are all too eager to beat me down. To top it off, a grinning demon’s begun haunting my dreams. I should back away. Magic isn’t nice. It’s deadly. But even so, it’s all I’ve ever wanted. And I’ll be damned if I let this opportunity slip through my fingertips. I’ll survive this semester and win. I don’t care what I have to do. Spark of Magic is the first book in the Gray Stone Witches six-book series. This high-stakes and fast-paced series is packed with magical creatures, found family, complex characters, and a slow burn romance!

They Left Magic in Their Wake by Marilyn Peake

SPFBO10 SPSFC 2024

At the end of the world, there will be magic. Earth has been decimated by climate change. Humanity has fractured into isolated tribes. A child born in the southwestern desert of the United States appears to have magical powers, a strict taboo in his part of the world. In four other locations, people discover magical items. No one knows how they work or where they’re from. Although these strange objects capture the imagination, using them is risky and dangerous. The five tribes at the heart of this novel: Southwestern Desert Tribe: Zadie and Nora have fled their tribe where human reproduction is so rare, pregnant women are burned at the stake as witches. Zadie gives birth to triplets, only one born alive. The surviving infant shows signs of having magical powers, another punishable taboo. Northeastern Mountain Tribe: Finley is a young boy too curious for his own good. Meddling with strange technology he finds in a cave, he eventually boards a flying ship that takes him far away from the only world he’s ever known. Tribe in Akihabara, Japan: Exploring post-apocalyptic Tokyo, Emiko, Katsuki, Rin and Ko discover ancient manga and D&D items, as well as glowing cubes they mistake for dice. When the long-dead neon lights of Tokyo begin to flicker, the teenagers get caught up in the most intense adventure of their lives. McMurdo Station Tribe—Located in the Land of Magical Ice, Formerly Antarctica: Settlers at the abandoned McMurdo Station practice a form of mysticism, their ancestors having fled religious persecution as well as the droughts and fires of Australia. Arthur Campbell and Harrison Clark are researchers studying the strange technology that runs the place. Vostok Station Tribe—Located in the Land of Magical Ice, Formerly Antarctica: The original settlers of the abandoned Vostok Station fled the extreme heat, fires and droughts of Brazil. Years later, giant squid and a spaceship emerge from Lake Vostok as the ice begins to melt. Salvador Siqueira and his crew leave their station to investigate.

The Saga of Bjorn Unfrid by John Simons

SPFBO10

The omens are not good. Ancient forces are at play… …and ancient forces are known to be assholes. Bjorn knows this because he’s not like other people. He sees the past and future, ghosts and gods. Sometimes he talks to them. But he never expected or wanted to get dragged into the business of the spirit world. He already has his own problems, like how to start a conversation with the woman he followed all the way to Texas so he could stay close to her. He’s pretty sure that wouldn’t go over as a great opening line. Unfortunately, the spirit world and the physical world are tied together and Bjorn is tangled up in all of it. It’s a lot to handle all at once in your freshman year of college, and UH is not the college experience he was expecting. But when things turn dark and the lives of his loved ones are at stake, it’s the place where he must awaken to his destiny whether he wants to or not.

My Name is not Alice by Angelika Rust

SPFBO10

Alice is a high school princess. Blonde. Beautiful. Shallow. Until she meets a little white rabbit, and her world turns upside down. The line between reality and fantasy blurs, then vanishes altogether. And Alice becomes a girl who attracts Trouble. Trouble with a capital T.

Evil Omega (Darkstar Pack Book 1) by S. Rodman

Gay. Necromancer. Werewolf. Supervillain. Silas Northstar is an omega with plans. Become a supervillain Embrace necromancy Enjoy being a boss in the bedroom Not part of his plans, Being captured the night he goes into heat Liking the stupid alpha guarding him Having way too much fun with him It's all good though, as by the morning he has escaped. He can put the fiery night behind him and forget it ever happened. It's not like Dean, the stupid alpha, is going to come looking for him, is it? Please note this book touches on dark themes, contains strong survivors and emotional growth. It is high heat and knotty. There is no mpreg. HEA guaranteed. Although this book is first in a series that follows the same couple, there is NO cliffhanger and it can be enjoyed as a standalone.

The Three Wise Young Men Part III by Darío Aguilar Peregrina

Ever since the young Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar discovered they were descendants of the Original Wise Men, their lives would completely change for better and for worse due to some enemies they would encounter along the way. Nevertheless, thanks to their collective charisma, as well as the help of incredible friends from the Magical Multiverse, their main mission of delivering gifts had been an absolute success. Upon recommendation of Santa Claus himself, the Wise Young Men would be summoned by the Mansa (King) of Mukehele Zunduri to find an object that would bring peace and stability to the kingdom after being missing for many years... The Star of Bethlehem.

The Three Wise Young Men Part II by Darío Aguilar Peregrina

Two years after defeating Herodes the Great, Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar had fully assumed the mantle of the Three Wise Men and brought gifts to different parts of the world accompanied by their friends from the Citadel and Mexico City. Due to the great success of the three in the task entrusted to them by the ancient Kings, they would be invited to Santa Claus's Christmas celebration at the North Pole, where various characters from different fantasy realms beyond the Citadel Kingdom would attend. However, when an ancient evil spirit would try to ruin this gathering and at the same time the upcoming Christmas, the Wise Young Men would seek to stop it...

The Three Wise Young Men by Darío Aguilar Peregrina

After years of fulfilling the wishes of all children every January 6th, one day, the Three Wise Men disappeared without a trace from the magical world they came from... Following this event, three young people from different parts of Mexico City who had stopped believing in the tradition and had a connection with the original Three Wise Men, would be chosen to embark on an unforgettable journey and find them. The Magic is real...

Bookstories by Sarah Tollok

“Every book lover says it at one time or another, don’t they? That they want to read ‘all the books’?” In 1960, junior editor Dottie Barber is up to her elbows in the slush pile of a New York publishing house. All of Dottie’s friends and colleagues know her to be a book lover through and through, but what they don’t know is that she has a special intuitive ability to understand pieces of a writer’s life just by reading their words. Only one writer has ever baffled Dottie’s empathic understanding: the mysterious author of brilliant stories submitted to the publishing house with no endings and no name. Every day, Dottie looks for a new envelope from the author, but each submission only adds to her bittersweet frustration. Nearly sixty years later, the mystery remains unsolved. Dottie’s career in publishing has amassed her a wealth of bookish friends, part ownership in a bookstore, and an enormous private library full of treasures and secrets, yet she still yearns to uncover the identity of the unknown author. She’s well into retirement when she meets Jim, a young playwright living in the basement apartment of her building. Despite being at opposite ends of their respective stories, the two become fast friends. Together, they search for the perfect reader—one who can help them finally decipher the author’s identity. A braided narrative of interconnected lives and stories, Bookstories is an ode to the authors, editors, publishers, librarians, booksellers, and countless others who make up the ecosystem of books. After all, it takes a world of people to bring about a world of books.

The Chronicles of the Virago: Book III the Triumviratus by Michael Bialys

Makenna Grace Gold is the Virago. At barely thirteen-years-old, she has been entrusted by the forces of good to protect her twin siblings Emi and Noah from the evil forces that seek to destroy them. The infant twins are destined to lead our world into its next age of Hope and Enlightenment: if and only if they survive In this follow up to the series, the stakes have just gotten higher. Makenna’s Dad’s soul has been captured and is being transported to the lowest levels of Hell. Makenna must stay on Earth to protect her siblings while her two best friends Stephen Levine a gifted clairvoyant and Samuel Taylor a genius level Game-master, traverse the nine levels of hell to rescue her Dad’s imperiled soul and bring him back to Earth. The heroic efforts and talents of these three friends will be tested to their limits, while the future of Makenna’s family and the entire World is at stake. It will take all of their combined gifts to defeat the forces of Evil this time.

The Chronicles of the Virago:: Book II The Apprentus by Michael Bialys

Makenna Grace Gold is the Virago. At barely thirteen-years-old, she has been entrusted by the forces of good to protect her twin siblings Emi and Noah from the evil forces that seek to destroy them. The infant twins are destined to lead our world into its next age of Hope and Enlightenment; if and only if Makenna can protect them. As she begins to settle into her new role as the Virago, Makenna receives a cryptic warning from none other than the Grim Reaper himself. She is told that her immediate future promises to be life threatening to both her and her entire family. It will take all Makenna’s new-found skills along with the assistance of her Fairy mentors Bree, Dee and Marigold, best friend Stephen and her sidekick Fluffy the wisecracking earthworm, to defeat the machinations of the malevolent, multi-billionaire Malvado Seaton. All this while Makenna and her family are on an international field trip with her classmates in China! And who is her mysterious new trainer Tai-Pan?

Have Mercy by Tyler Miles

The Bluest Eye meets The Ocean at the End of the Lane in this gritty magical realism story that offers a unique and captivating journey through a world where reality and fantasy blur. Ten-year-old Danae is a little biracial girl who has dealt with the loss of her mother and, having grown up in the projects, a childhood of poverty. When she comes home from school one day to find her father dead in his bed, she loses her grip on reality and slips into a fantasy world where her dog is a magical knight and monsters are real. As she navigates this new world, she must also find the strength to deal with her father's death and the eccentric and sometimes criminal people entering her life now. With ghosts, witches, and found friendships of the unlikeliest kind, Have Mercy is a magical realism story that delves into themes of race and color, loss and grief, and the power of imagination. As Danae tries to make sense of what's happening, the reader is left wondering what's real and what's not, and whether Danae can trust herself and the world around her.

Wings of Fire by Stephanie Mirro

Stealing objects for supernatural clients is my bread and butter. Murder? Not so much. As a phoenix, I’m used to burning hot and rising from the ashes. That’s why I chose to make my living as a world-class thief. Some say it’s dangerous. I call it fun. Or it is until someone beats me to my latest mark, stealing the prize and killing a fae duke in the process. To add insult to injury, I get blamed for the gruesome murder. With my freedom on the line, I’ve got three options. One, confess my failure and spend a few centuries as the caged pet of my sadistic, bloodsucking client. Nope. Two, take the blame and let the hotter-than-hell grim reaper take me to jail. Also a hard nope, unless he sweetens the deal with an offer to burn up the sheets. Is it any wonder I choose door number three? I’ve got to find the real killer, steal back the goods, and remind everyone how I got my reputation as the world’s best “acquirer” in the first place. There’s just one problem. That sexier-than-sin grim reaper I mentioned? He’s determined to see me go down.

Paragon Exordium by Mikel Melwasul

aragon Exordium is an easy-to-read character-driven fantasy novel that combines classic magical elements with a modern-day setting full of non-stop action, world-building, and high stakes. -In Paragon, Georgia, the battle for survival has begun.  After the Shattering, everything changes. When technology falters, the remnants of humanity must unite against an onslaught of creatures beyond their wildest imaginings. Basilisk, orcs, elves, dwarves, and other terrifying creatures now populate the planet.   With the creatures causing havoc, strangers are forced to join forces. Private military officer Peter Blair grapples with enigmatic dreams brought on by a black sword, and his inability to save everyone. While journalism student Sarah Young discovers newfound magical powers and the responsibility they bring. With refugees flooding in and danger on the rise, Peter and Sarah must embrace their new reality or risk surrendering Earth to the Fae - losing everything they hold dear.   Fans of The Walking Dead and Lord of the Rings will be enticed by this genre-bending epic that rings with themes of survival, sacrifice, and self-discovery. 

Life Sucks After You Die by Crystal-Rain Love

All Danni Keller wanted to do was go to a bar and drown her sorrows in some alcohol, but she managed to get attacked by an incubus. Now she's being guarded by a hunky but oh so irritating vampire (who bit her too) while the incubus stalks her. Being guarded by the sexy vampire probably wouldn't be that bad if not for the fact her perfect boss has finally noticed her. Try dating while a vampire guards you way too closely and an incubus tracks your every move, waiting to pounce. Then there's some creepy hunter guy who also wants to kill Danni. The sun wants to kill her. Human food wants to kill her. Don't even get her started on her family. Life sucks after you die.

The Fifth Horseman by Freida Kilmari

No name. No past. One giant future. The only thing worse than suddenly waking up in a magical house with the insanely gorgeous Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse? Being the Fifth. With no memory of who I am, where I came from, or what I’m doing here, I’m thrust into a new life with four people who I might want more from than just friendship. But with no past, how can I possibly plan for a future? The only clue as to who I am? Four different species' magic resides within me—Vampire, Fae, Shifter, and Witch—and between them, I might be the most powerful creature on the planet. For fuck's sake. Look out world, Horseman of Magic coming through!

Ghosts of the Catacombs by Janna Ruth

SPFBO10

I'm a ghost whisperer, not a catacomb crawler. But when you live in Paris, sometimes you end up being both. Hi, I’m Alix. During the day, I’m a history student at the time-honoured Sorbonne University. After class, I hang out with the ghosts of the revolution, the many undead misunderstood Parisian artists, and adventurous scientists that glow in the dark. None of them are alive, but they come to me to solve their problems with the living. When a recently deceased catacomb tour guide asks me to retrieve a mysterious personal item from the underground, things take a turn for the weird. Suddenly, I find myself in a city of ghosts, hunted by murderous cave crawlers, and stumbling across haunting secrets. If I’m not careful now, I might end up a ghost myself. Urban Fantasy with a French twist. If you like cave-crawling adventures, hopeless romantics, and ghosts, you'll enjoy Ghosts of the Catacomb, the first instalment of the Parisian Ghosts series. Travel to Paris today to embark on your catacomb adventure.

Vampire Menstrual Syndrome: The First Cycle by S.C. Hunter

Vampire Menstrual Syndrome is the unapologetically queer-feminist supernatural comedy-horror series that no one asked for. The first day of Vanessa’s period takes a deadly turn when she is unwittingly sacrificed by a suburban cult of pretentious teenagers. After being exsanguinated, Vanessa crawls out of her shallow grave and is understandably upset. Caught in a horrible cycle of ingesting and excreting blood, Vanessa needs answers…fast. Thankfully, Vanessa’s roommate, Wyatt, is bored of his monotonous summer retail job and is a long-time fan of all things supernatural. Wyatt encourages Vanessa to investigate her own murder so that they can find some answers about her unexpected afterlife. Together, this dramatic duo will go to any lengths necessary to figure out what the hell is going on in their mundane little city. Interrogating and traumatizing teenagers? Easy. Catfishing knowledgeable strangers from a paranormal chat room? Fire off some eggplant emojis. Befriending an occult horticulturalist? That’s a green thumb’s up. Rubbing elbows with a pompous warlock? If they must. However, with each misguided step into the Underworld, Vanessa gradually realizes that her murderer—her maker, is trying to hunt her down. Unearth a conspiracy as old as sexism itself or survive long enough to have an afterlife crisis? Hopefully, those two options aren’t mutually exclusive. Vampire Menstrual Syndrome…and you thought cramps were bad. Content Warnings: The First Cycle, as the name implies, is the first book in the trilogy lovingly known as VMS. As a result, this book has a cliff-hanger ending. This book contains scenes of graphic violence and body horror, hard drug and alcohol use, talk of dysphoria, experiences of queerphobia and microaggressions (in the past), flashbacks of war, death, non-stop period talk (yes, clots and all), and, of course, blood. This book also contains queer romantic tension, steamy make-out scenes, and nudity--with a proposed spice rating of 1 chili pepper.

Stone Soup by E. B. Mann

On a dark and dismal morning, Green Eyes awakens to find herself scratching at her mother’s door. She’s had the dream again—the one in which she’s a cat trying to climb a mountain to save a girl in distress. The confusing dream haunts her as she treks to the nearby village to sell the mysterious wooden figurines her mother carves. She lives her life in fear: Will today be the day she earns enough money to please her? Or will she return home to face yet another beating? She never knows what to expect until she walks through the cottage door. Her only hope is that her mother won’t damage the wooden prosthetic she must wear after losing her hand as a baby. As she’s on her way home, she encounters Arduon and Paduon, a pair of wise-cracking crows who tell her she’s not who she thinks she is. They urge her to go in search of her true self, but Green Eyes resists, afraid of her mother and of the dangers of the world. It’s only when she learns that her mother is in fact a witch who put a spell on her that Green Eyes finds the courage to escape. Armed with the crow’s wisdom—and a magical sword gifted to her by her friends in the village—she sets off on a journey to discover her true identity.

Wicked Little Things by Justin Arnold

Join a coven. Catch a killer. Get a makeover...? When his cousin is murdered, recently outed 16 year old Dane Craven, is forced to return to his unbearably small hometown of Jasper Hollow. It would be easy enough for him to keep his head down if it weren't for three inescapable facts. ​ One, Dane is a witch with fiery powers he can barely control. Two, he's been claimed by a coven of fashion forward 'mean girls' desperate to give him a makeover. And three, Dane is pretty sure he's responsible for the death of his cousin. ​ Being the gay best friend to a trio of teenage witches was never high on Dane's list of aspirations, but fortunately for him these girls have the necromantic powers he needs to figure out who killed his cousin. Plus, he could do with some new clothes. While on the hunt for his cousin's killer, Dane discovers life in Jasper Hollow isn't all bad. There's the cute boy who works at the local coffee shop and enjoys long walks in the woods, for one. But when the rabbit-faced killer comes for Dane, he'll be forced to come to terms with who he is and where he belongs before it's too late for him and everyone in Jasper Hollow. ​ Wicked Little Things is a spooky, campy, horror complete with mystery, romance, and a whole lot of sass. It's Netflix's Chilling Adventures of Sabrina meets Caleb Roehrig's The Fell of Dark. ​ ​ "Think The Craft meets Mean Girls, with a pinch of AHS: Coven, then make it super gay. A bitchy, witchy, spook-fest that delivers scares, gore, and so much more! Camp, funny, and with moments of devastating darkness, this book really is full of Wicked Little Things." - Rory Michaelson, author of The Lesser Known Monsters Trilogy “Throw The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Are You Afraid of The Dark, Mean Girls, and Heathers into a cauldron, stir in a little queerness (for flavor) and you've got this book! Wicked Little Things brings the creep factor of urban legends, and mixes in humor, found family vibes, oh yeah, and a possible deal with the "devil" to create a sassy, spooky read that readers will come back to again and again." - Lou Wilham, author of The Hex Next Door

Chasing The Alpha's Son by Penny Jessup

The second book in Penny Jessup’s best selling The Alpha’s Son series. It’s been three months since their kiss on the beach and Max hasn’t heard a whisper from Jasper. With Christmas fast approaching, and despite vowing he would chase Jasper to the ends of the world, Max is ready to give up. Until Alpha Jericho announces he’s sending a select envoy of Elite Pack wolves to an allied wolf-pack stationed high in the rocky mountains, where they will bear witness to a Blood Moon. A week in a cozy ski-lodge sounds as romantic as you can get, so Max decides to give things with Jasper one last shot. But life in the mountains is rockier than expected and finding alone time with Jasper is harder than Max thought. Political unrest between the packs is galvanizing Jasper’s determination to keep them apart, and new and old suitors are emerging in the pursuit of Jasper’s affections. Running headfirst into snow storms, Max begins to question if the destiny he’s been chasing is what he really wants. And when the Blood Moon arrives, bringing irrevocable change that no one saw coming, Max and Jasper’s connection will be put to the ultimate test. Will they find the path between souls among the snow covered peaks or will the mountain roads lead them to an unexpected destiny?

The Alpha's Son by Penny Jessup

Max Remus couldn't care less about finding his mate-unlike the rest of his fate-obsessed pack. He totally prefers hanging with his bestie, eating his dad's steak sandwiches, and drawing in his trusty sketchbook. But all that is about to change at the Blue Moon Festival-a summer camp where Elite Pack wolves go to find their mates. The festival is a right of passage for every teen werewolf, and this year's festival will be one to howl home about. The alpha's son, Jasper Apollo, is attending for the first time. When Max finds himself inexplicably linked with the exceptionally handsome but totally jerk-faced heir, he's forced to grapple with the unexpected feelings clawing at his soul. If Max rejects his destiny, will fate's bite be worse than its bark? ​ Netflix's Young Royals meets Teen Wolf meets Twilight--the first instalment in a thrilling new series, The Alpha's Son is a heart-wrenching Young Adult, Boys Love, wolf shifter romance; full of yearning, comedy, and adventure. Start reading now! And may the Moon Gods light the path between souls. ​ "Full to the brim with teenage angst, werewolf lore, and plenty of pining, this supernatural romance is perfect for fans of Wranglestone and The Fell of Dark." - Philip Ellis author of Love and Other Scams ​ "The Alpha’s Son is an adorable debut filled with humor and intrigue. With the perfect amount of teen angst and awkwardness, Jessup weaves a story, who's end you won't see coming, about following your heart and knowing your worth.” - Jordon Greene author of Every Word You Never Said

Mandrake Manor by JP Rindfleisch IX

Inherited magic. A secret neighborhood. And... a formidable Homeowner's Association? When Mathias Mandrake becomes the unexpected heir of Mandrake Manor, he and his friends are thrust into a world of witchery and mystery. Juggling romance, nosy neighbors, and looming fines, they must decide: is the magic worth the mayhem?

Dead Culture by Ross Young

Millicent Havercroft, a cheese merchant, and proud market stall holder, has been beheaded and placed on a shelf in the Gloomwood library. The city is suffering a spate of horrific food poisoning attacks. Augustan Blunt has been dumped by his long-time, on-again-off-again girlfriend. An organisation calling itself the ‘culture’ is covering the city in anti-food propaganda. But worse still… Something has happened to the Grim Reaper’s mid-afternoon snack. Somebody’s cheesed off…

Dead Festive by Ross Young

There's no such thing as Christmas in the Grim Reaper's own slice of the afterlife, but there is Bleakest Day. As the festive season is in full swing, things are taking a sinister turn. Who would steal the Grim Reaper's baubles? Why does everyone hate the demonic refugees? Did Detective Blunt remember to get Sarah a present? The afterlife is in turmoil once again and it's down to Detective Blunt and the few friends he has to get to the bottom of things. On Bleakest Eve, everything is going to come together. The question is... who's been naughty and is anybody nice? Welcome back to the afterlife. Just remember, don't call it Christmas....

Unusual Light by J. Elizaga

Engineering student Ana Juliet (AJ) takes a summer job as a swing-shift security guard at a hospital morgue--the same morgue once investigated by the police for unusual calls received during full moons. And the calls happen only when Matt, a guard assigned to the overnight shift, is on duty. AJ scoffs at the idea of otherworldly activities. But soon after, she witnesses a mysterious orb. The orb reveals itself to be the ghost of Binni Almond, a teenager who went missing thirty years ago. Despite AJ’s shock, she befriends Binni. She vows to use her problem-solving abilities to find Binni’s family and solve the mystery of the young girl’s disappearance. But darker spirits are afoot. As AJ descends to the morgue’s basement to capture evidence of Binni’s remains, Matt’s visions worsen. Evil spirits surge around the premises. And AJ is in danger of getting caught in the middle of a paranormal showdown.

The Aqua Human by J. Elizaga

A teenager in the Pacific during World War II, evades capture by escaping to sea. She survives a tragedy and discovers new physical abilities underwater. Alone, she grapples to survive on land. But under the sea, she finds friendship from the most intelligent marine creatures. Over the decades, Amaya searches for the answer about her mysterious transformation while hiding her secret. But her secret may have finally been captured on film.

Phantom and Rook by Aelina Isaacs

Arlo Rook has decided it’s time to move out of Garren Castle, home for orphans of all races, magical or not, at 100 years old. It’s not the first time he’s left home, but after a setback that landed the Hedge Witch in the hospital a year ago, he ended up right back at square one. But now he’s ready to strike out on his own, despite his friend’s worries that he’s not ready for the ‘real world.’ Then, he crashes into a mess of copper curls and bright eyes, sending apothecary goods and his life into a chaotic mess. Thatch is a mysterious and incredibly wealthy benefactor of Levena, only spoken of but never seen. He requests a night of Arlo’s company and a tour of the city, which Arlo immediately declines. But that’s not the last time they see each other, and it certainly wasn’t the first. Arlo doesn’t remember him, no one remembers Thatch after he visits, but Thatch never forgot the Witch with a familiar soulmark on his face. Thatch Phantom is an immortal, the last of his kind and perpetually bored. When he’s not closing inter-dimensional rifts and corralling demons, he’s visiting his favorite city of all, Levena. Centuries ago, when life was particularly dull, he set up a scavenger hunt for a starving village, providing them with a year’s worth of supplies. He anonymously returned year after year, upping the ante and providing less practical things, as the village had become a city and was wealthy beyond belief. Festivals were thrown in his honor, and have continued every year since. Hundreds of years later, The Game is still put on by the fabled ‘Scarlet Illusionist’, but no one has figured out who blesses them with the puzzles. Once again, Thatch is listless and has decided to throw a wild card into this year’s Game. Whoever discovers him will win one wish of their choice, no restrictions. Aside from the obvious, such as no falling in love, murder or resurrection. What he didn’t anticipate was crashing into the one person whose soul mark flares like a beacon when Thatch is around, teasing the immortal with the one thing he wants most. Someone to call home. What follows is a wild chain of events filled with magical coffee shops, villains with vendettas against cheese makers, moving tattoos, grand puzzles, and second chances at love, and life.

The Rains Came Down by Julian Shaw

SPSFC 2023

A world where nature has claimed the streets of London… where ageless people are perilously addicted to sucking marbles… and where the deaths of three men from another world threatens the order of the universe… In this, his debut novel, Julian Shaw has created a life-affirming and enchanting parallel universe, remarkable for its torrential bursts of action and overwhelming floods of emotion. ________________________________ When Gareth Edwards dies in a train crash, he emerges in The Meadow , a realm existing somewhere between life and death. Hunted and on the run, he finds refuge with a travelling circus and journeys with them across the splendour of this strange world, where pubs organise rebellions, cave dwellers archive Earth’s disasters – and where a network of monasteries are commissioning expeditions into the Welsh mountains that are too dangerous to speak of. Gareth joins one of these expeditions, only to find something yet more perilous waiting for him – something with origins that reach beyond this world and into the trauma of his past.

Wolves of Duty by Charlotte Murphy

ASPEN ANAI is the Female, one of three laecan children born under unique circumstances, known as the Triquetra. Destined to usher in a new generation of Alpha wolves, Aspen has always known her purpose and is content being the gilded vessel for the two males who must compete for her, in physical challenges known as the Mating Games. When fellow Triquetrian, Caius Caldoun threatens their traditions and social standing by refusing to compete in the games against current Alpha heir Sabre Riadnak; Aspen starts questioning her destiny and the motives of those she thought she could trust. Thrust into political upheaval and social discord, Aspen is forced to choose between the duty she has always known and the happiness, freedom and love, she has only begun to taste.

Fallen Divinity by Bri Mooney

Can you outrun fate? Prepare to be immersed once again in the enthralling world of paranormal romance and dark fantasy in "Fallen Divinity," the electrifying sequel to the Descent into Hell Series. As Aradia's journey continues, she finds herself standing at the precipice of an inescapable fate, with the weight of her past and the future of her loved ones resting upon her shoulders. In the wake of her reclaimed memories, Aradia cherishes the love she has found, a kingdom she is willing to sacrifice everything for, and the unwavering support of her loyal friends. But in the depths of Hell, a stirring darkness threatens to unravel the delicate balance she has fought so hard to achieve. As she delves deeper into the enigmatic missing pieces of her memory, Aradia uncovers secrets that could shatter everything she holds dear. Each dangerous question she dares to ask carries the potential for devastating answers, not only endangering her own life but also the lives of those she cherishes most. In "Fallen Divinity," the consequences of Aradia's ignorance loom ominously, with the power to inflict unimaginable pain upon herself and all those she loves. Can she defy the forces that conspire against her, or will the price of her ignorance be too high to bear? Immerse yourself in this spellbinding tale of love, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of truth. "Fallen Divinity" will captivate fans of paranormal romance and dark fantasy as it plunges them into a world where the line between destiny and devastation blurs, and the choices made shape the very fabric of existence.