It’s #GuestDayTuesday again, folks, and today we have author D. Wallace Peach visiting us with news about her latest release, The Necromancer’s Daughter. Don’t know about you guys, but I’ve never read a book by Diana I didn’t LOVE, and I’m dying to read this one! (SOOOON, My Precious!)
Thank you, Diana, for joining us today, and now … you have the floor, my friend! Take it away!
Good morning, Marcia. I’m delighted to get a slot on your blog for #GuestDayTuesday. I started my book tour about three weeks ago for my new stand-alone novel The Necromancer’s Daughter, and I thought I’d share a little about the inspiration/theme of the story.
As you know, I write fantasy novels, but there are only so many plots to go around, and we all have to share them regardless of the genre we write. So, with billions of books out there, how do we ever make our stories original? It’s all in the details, my friend, and the way we put our unique spin on them with our unique voices.
As much as fantasy is about imaginary worlds and magical beings, there are few of us who have the talent to tell an un-human story. We want to grab our readers and make them care. To do that, we need to create characters they can relate to and then put them in situations that make sense. You, my friend, are a master at doing just that.
In writing fantasy, for my themes, I draw quite a bit on the quandaries and challenges of modern life, knowing full well that the hurdles we face have been around for thousands of years in one form or another.
The theme of The Necromancer’s Daughter is the biases and assumptions we make about others without really getting at the truth of who they are as people. Does that sound familiar in our politically divided country? Or in the prejudices around race, religion, ethnicity, gender, and a host of other ways that we differ from each other? It’s a tale as old as time.
In The Necromancer’s Daughter, the division is between those who practice necromancy (the raising of the dead) and those who believe it’s demonic and against the wishes of their goddess.
One of my main characters, Joreh, is stuck in the middle with the hard task of facing his ingrained biases and really seeing people for who they are. That’s no easy task, and he has a lot on the line, including his life.
And, of course, the pages are brimming with action, escapes, barbarians, and dragons. There’s also a touch of romance and tons and tons of snow!
Thanks so much for having me over today, my friend. It was fun getting a chance to chat a little about the book! And many thanks to your blog friends for stopping by. Happy Reading.
You Can Buy The Necromancer’s Daughter HERE
BLURB:
A healer and dabbler in the dark arts of life and death, Barus is as gnarled as an ancient tree. Forgotten in the chaos of the dying queen’s chamber, he spirits away her stillborn infant, and in a hovel at the meadow’s edge, he breathes life into the wisp of a child. He names her Aster for the lea’s white flowers. Raised as his daughter, she learns to heal death.
Then the day arrives when the widowed king, his own life nearing its end, defies the Red Order’s warning. He summons the necromancer’s daughter, his only heir, and for his boldness, he falls to an assassin’s blade.
While Barus hides from the Order’s soldiers, Aster leads their masters beyond the wall into the Forest of Silvern Cats, a land of dragons and barbarian tribes. She seeks her mother’s people, the powerful rulers of Blackrock, uncertain whether she will find sanctuary or face a gallows’ noose.
Unprepared for a world rife with danger, a world divided by those who practice magic and those who hunt them, she must choose whether to trust the one man offering her aid, the one man most likely to betray her—her enemy’s son.
A healer with the talent to unravel death, a child reborn, a father lusting for vengeance, and a son torn between justice, faith, and love. Caught in a chase spanning kingdoms, each must decide the nature of good and evil, the lengths they will go to survive, and what they are willing to lose.
MY REVIEW:
(NOTE: I got my wish, devoured this book, and here’s my review.)
I’m a huge fan of author D. Wallace Peach, and have loved every book of hers I’ve read to date. Fantasy has become my favorite genre in recent years, so I was eagerly awaiting release day for this one, and crossing my fingers that I hadn’t built up unrealistic expectations. What a joke! It was even better than I hoped. I can honestly say I loved this book even more than Peach’s others, and that’s high praise, believe me.
As always, Diana’s world-building is fantastic, from the beliefs held by each country, to the descriptions of every battle … and every DRAGON! Yes, there are dragons, and they add a wonderful sense of magic that becomes totally believable as the story grows. But even better than the world or its fabulous dragons are the characters! Each is fully fleshed out in a way that made them totally real to me, complete with faults and frailties, generosities and kindnesses, strengths and weaknesses, and all the other components that go into being human. (Or slightly more than. We are talking necromancers here, so it’s a given that this world is touched by magic, even in cultures where it’s forbidden, and practicing it is punishable by death.)
I enjoyed this book with its elegant cover so much that I want to display it in my library, and am ordering a print copy for that purpose alone. Just looking at it sitting on my favorite bookshelf will make me smile every morning.
If you enjoy fantasy, interesting worlds graced with magic, and beautifully rendered characters who will live on in your heart long after you finish the last page, grab your copy right now. You won’t be sorry!
Author D. Wallace Peach
A long-time reader, best-selling author D. Wallace Peach started writing later in life when years of working in business surrendered to a full-time indulgence in the imaginative world of books. She was instantly hooked.
In addition to fantasy books, Peach’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry. She’s an avid supporter of the arts in her local community, organizing and publishing annual anthologies of Oregon prose, poetry, and photography.
Peach lives in a log cabin amongst the tall evergreens and emerald moss of Oregon’s rainforest with her husband, two owls, a horde of bats, and the occasional family of coyotes.
You Can Buy The Necromancer’s Daughter Here:
You Can Reach Diana on Social Media HERE:
I have just started reading this amazing story, and parts of me are tingling with anticipation…
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I love that you’re “tingling with anticipation,” Jaye. What a thrill to know that you’ve cracked open the book. I hope you enjoy hours of entertainment. Have a beautiful day, my friend. And congrats on your latest book too – one week to go! ❤
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I have so much to look forward too, Diana…
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The tingling will only get better as you read, Jaye! It’s a fantastic story, featuring all the things I love the most! I know you’ll enjoy every word.
Thanks for stopping by today! 😀 ❤
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You’re welcome Marcia…
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You’re in for a treat, Marica. I’m currently reading The Necromancer’s Daughter and it’s great.
Enjoying the tour stops, Diana! Continuing to wish you success.
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Joan, I got it, read it, and added my review to this post (above). I think we’re of one mind about this one. Utterly beautiful, for sure! Thanks for stopping by today, and for adding your thoughts on The Necromancer’s Daughter. 😀 ❤
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How did I totally miss your review, Marcia? Not enough caffeine when I read the post? 🙂
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You won’t believe this, but I actually forgot that I had already inserted it last night, and rushed straight out here to do so first thing this morning. DOH! Talk about a lack of caffeine!!! 😂😂😂 I’m just glad you enjoyed the post, overall, and that you are loving the book so far. I predict a wonderful review from you, too! 😀 ❤
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Thanks so much, Joan, for boosting the book and for the kind note on the tour. I’ve been having a blast. I have more touring to go, and really hope that my hosts are getting some exposure for their blogs and books. That was as much my hope as finding a few new readers. Have a wonderful day, my friend. ❤
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I am so in awe of authors who can create fantasy worlds and make them believable and relatable.
Fantasy is not a genre I have explored in books. I think I lack the imagination! However, your book sounds like a modern parable, and perhaps I ought to broaden my reading horizons!
Thank you for sharing.
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Even if you aren’t someone who regularly reads fantasy, I think you’d love this book. The human element is very strong, and the characters are wonderful. Who knows? You might discover you even love the dragons. I sure did! 😀 ❤
Let me know if you decide to give this one a chance. I'd be very interested in your thoughts. Thanks for stopping by today, Jackie! 😀 ❤
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I do like a dragon, although it tends to be film dragons, such as Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings!
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Oh yes, me too. I’m watching both right now and can hardly wait for the next installment. 🙂
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We were just in Dubrovnik, which is the location for Kings Landing in GOT. I took a lovely picture of The Fab Four on the harbour, with the castle behind – and a shot of them with Tyrion Lannister (a life-sized plastic one!) in one of the many official GOT merchandise shops!
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Wow. What a great place to visit! We want to do the LotR tour in New Zealand one day – total tourist. Lol.
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New Zealand is worth visiting no matter what. I backpacked around there for two months in 1996 and saw a lot of the locations, obviously without realising! I would love to go back and revisit them!
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🙂
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Thanks for the great comment, Jackie. Fantasy is a broad genre, and even though I write it, I don’t enjoy every subgenre. One of my goals as a writer is to appeal to non-fantasy readers with deeply human stories – the type I like to read regardless of the genre. If you decide to give it a try, I hope you enjoy the story. Have a glorious day. 😀
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I will definitely give it a go!
Thank you xx
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Thank YOU! ❤
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I so loved this book! Congrats to Diana on another fantastic read and review. Thanks for sharing, Marcia. Hugs 💕🙂
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I’m with you, Harmony! What’s not to love about this one, eh? I received my print copy yesterday and have that beautiful cover image of Aster to keep me company. (I tend to display various books on little stands around my library shelves, changing them out now and then as the mood strikes me.) Glad to know you enjoyed it, too!
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope the weather is being kind to you today! 😀 ❤
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What a lovely image I have in my head. 🙂 Thank you.
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Thanks for swinging by Marcia’s, Harmony. You’re so kind to comment… again. Lol. Have a beautiful day, my friend. Hugs ❤
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Wonderful review. Congratulations to Diana.
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Thanks for stopping by, Craig. I loved how Marcia snuck her review in at the end. Have a great day of writing!
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I meant every word of it, Craig. This book was elegantly done in a way I envy so much. Don’t tell Diana, but I’d dearly love to be able to create fantasy like this one, with believable world-building and characters readers are fully invested in. And maybe some dragons! I don’t think that will happen this go around, but at least I have delightful fantasy to READ, from the fun of your Hat & Lanternfish series to the beauty of stories like this one. That will do me fine for now!
Thanks for stopping by today! 😀
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I had to snort at your comment, Marcia. You already do write “believable world-building and characters readers are fully invested in.” I totally believe your magic, and I love love your characters. And Craig has the same writing gift of pure enjoyment.
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Aww, that’s such a great compliment, especially coming from you. I can only build worlds I’m familiar with, but if you like how I do that, then I’m a happy camper. I actually live right next door to my fictional town of Riverbend, so that one’s easy. And I’ve been to the precise area where I located the fictional wake-robin ridge, so that world is fairly easy for me, too. Building a whole new series of worlds and continents and countries is a different matter altogether, and I’m very grateful you and many others know how to do it so well. I sure do love visiting them! 😀 ❤
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It’s your characters that get me, Marcia. You’re a master of creating characters that I just love. I always know that I’m going to fall in love with them. Your characters from both series have stuck with me. ❤
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That’s a wonderful compliment, Diana. I am a lover of characters who grab my heart or touch me in one way or the other, so to read that you “fall in love with” mine is fantastic! I’ll be dancing on air all day, and with any luck, I will SOON be able to get back to writing #4 in the Riverbend series, and #1 in the spinoff WRR novellas. I’ve missed being able to focus well enough to write for months now, and I’m hoping that soon comes to an end. I have stories I really want to tell, and people I want to set free on an unsuspecting world!
Muah-hahahahahaha.
😀 ❤
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I can’t wait until you’re writing again, Marcia. I’m eager for another story from you, and I know others are as well. 🙂 ❤
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Thanks for the nod.
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Well earned, my friend! 😀
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Pingback: The Necromancer’s Daughter Book Tour: Day 8 | Myths of the Mirror
Thank you so much for having me over today, Marcia, and for the wonderful review! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the book and the characters. And thanks for the beautiful review. That was the cherry on the icing on the cake. I’m looking forward to spending the day with you, chatting with your visitors, and having a few laughs too. Huge hugs for your kindness, my friend. Have a wonderful day. ❤ ❤
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It’s always my pleasure to have you here on TWS, Diana, and especially when it’s to help you get the word out about a new book. Double especially when the new book is one I loved as much as The Necromancer’s Daughter. BTW, my print copy arrived last night and is already on display on one of my easels. I can enjoy how beautiful it is from where I sit at my computer!
Thanks for being a guest here today, and huge congratulations on this one! Hope it sells right off the virtual shelves!! 🤗💖🤗
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Thanks, Marcia. The book is getting a lovely reception, and I couldn’t be happier, especially when finding new readers and making some new blog friends. I’m so honored that you went ahead and bought a paperback copy. I do that too with books that I find extra special… like Rabbit’s.
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PS, thanks so much for the kind words about me and my blog on your site! You made my morning! And thanks also for the wonderful compliment you paid me in your post above. I’m so glad you enjoy my characters, and you KNOW how much I enjoy yours! ❤️❤️❤️
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A theme for our time, that is for sure. Unfortunately, it seems to be a theme for all times.
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I agree, Laurie. It’s one of those human lessons that we don’t seem to learn very well despite thousands of years of experience. As a theme for literature, it’s timeless and timely. I just spent a (wedding) weekend with a bunch of people who are quite different from me, and we had a wonderful time… it was a good reminder that people are multifaceted and complex and a little kindness goes a long way. 🙂 Have a wonderful day, my friend. ❤
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I’m reading this book now, and let me tell you, it’s the hardest thing to put it down just to do things I need to… like eat and sleep. LOL
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Lol. I nearly spit my coffee. What a great comment, Kymber. I’m sorry you’re hungry and sleep-deprived, but so delighted that you’re enjoying the book. That’s wonderful of you to say. I hope you get some food and a nap today. Huge hugs. ❤
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Thank you, Diana. 😂😂 When a book is good, you don’t really mind being deprived. 😂
Huge hugs to you, too. 💕
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Lol. You’re making me laugh again.
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I can absolutely identify with that dilemma, Kymber! I had the same problem. Every single chapter was hypnotizing!
Thanks for stopping by today to add your thoughts on The Necromancer’s Daughter! 😀 ❤
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I thought at first that the idea of necromancy would be creepy, but I was so wrong. Diana W. Peach presents the concepts in a fascinating and good way. I was hooked from the first page on, and loved every minute of reading this book.
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I agree with you 100%, Anneli! It was exactly the same for me, and I loved every minute of it! Thanks so much for stopping by today, too! 😀 ❤
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I was hoping for that contrast between expectation and reality, Anneli. I’m so glad it worked. Necromancers elicit such dark and scary imagery. They were the perfect subjects to make kind and loving. Thanks for stopping by Marcia’s this morning. Have a wonderful day, my friend. ❤
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By having Joreh question the morality of Aster using her necromancy skills, it really brought home the fact that there are two ways of looking at it. This added tension and conflict to the story but also showed both sides of the necromancy issue. I rationalized the idea of necromancy (since I’m too practical to easily believe fantasy [at least I thought that at one time]) by likening it to bringing back people who were unconscious or in a coma. Then it made perfect sense to me.
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Corporeal decay sets in pretty quickly in real life, Anneli, but throughout history, people were occasionally buried alive. “Saved by the bell” actually refers to burying people with bells in case they weren’t really dead. In the story, the dead are dead, but in a way, so are people who’ve been resusitated after a heart attack or drowning. It was a fun line to cross. 🙂
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Tricky stuff, for sure. You did a good job of writing about this topic.
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Thanks for a gushing review Marcia and another nudge to break out Diana’s book from the dusty bin of my unused and unread digital library. I hate reading books online but love Diana’s writing, so I guess it’s time to just do it!
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I definitely tend to gush when I’m excited about something or someone, but Diana absolutely earned it with this book, and that’s no joke! I can identify with having an enormous TBR pile, but I hope you’ll push this one to the top of yours and read it soon. You’ll be glad you did!
Thanks for stopping by today! 😀
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The irony is I know I’ll like it. Keep on gushing and helping writers Marcia. 😃
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LOL. You’ll get there when you get there, Brad. There’s a bit of summer and a beautiful autumn to enjoy. Maybe some cold wet day when you have nothing to do. I loved Marcia’s gushing – she’s so generous with her comments. Thanks for visiting and adding to my smile. Hugs.
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I’m glad to bring you a smile Diana. I will read savor your book eventually! Happy autumn….
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❤
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Just so you know, Diana … gushing is a southern thing, but I NEVER gush when I don’t mean it. All my gushing comes straight from the heart! And this statement is totally gush-free. (So far.) 😂😂😂
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LOL 😂
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😉😄
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Ha ha. I’m a gusher too, Marcia. Especially when I love a book or books. Like yours. 😀
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🤗🤗🤗
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Good review, Marcia! I’m reading the book now. I really enjoy Peach’s prose and how she invokes all the senses to bring Aster’s world to life.
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Me too, Priscilla! I love fantasy, and this one really ROCKS!! So glad you are enjoying it, and thanks for stopping by today, too! 😀 ❤
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Thanks so much for reading and for the wonderful comment, Priscilla. I hope the book continues to entertain. 🙂 Have a gorgeous end to your summer and Happy Reading!
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A terrific review, Marcia. Thanks for sharing and congratulations to Diana.
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Glad you enjoyed the review, John. I meant every word of it. I’m so in love with epic fantasy these days, and Diana knows exactly how to write fantasy with wonderful characters who touch my heart. While I often read romance-free fantasy, I honestly enjoy all books even more when there’s a bit of a love story woven in. The Necromancer’s Daughter includes a humdinger of one alongside the dragons and bad guys and heroes, so it worked perfectly for me.
Thanks so much for stopping by today! 😀
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Can’t wait to read it.
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Thanks so much for stopping by Marcia’s, John. Her review was a wonderful surprise. Have a great day, my friend. 😀
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😊 Have a great day too, Diana.
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What a fabulous post today. Diana, I love what you said, “it’s all in the detail.” You are right. There are millions of books out there and only so many tropes, but our unique voices are what sets the story apart. I loved this book! It’s such a great story, and at times I found myself holding my breath. I highly recommend it. Thank you, Marcia, for hosting Diana today!
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Always a pleasure to host my fellow writers, Jan, and Diana never fails to deliver! I held my breath through many parts of this story, too, and can’t recommend it highly enough. So glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for stopping by to let us know. 😀 ❤
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I read once that there are only 36 basic plots (even less depending on who you ask). So it’s our style, our voice, our vision, and our choices that make our stories unique. I think that’s so cool… and encouraging. If we can imagine, we’ll never run out of stories. Thanks so much for swinging by Marcia’s, and Happy Writing!
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The themes that Diana chose for this book resonate in today’s world… still. I loved this book so much. Marcia, I just grabbed a copy of a Boy Named Rabbit. I promised you long ago I would get to your books and the time is now! 💜 🦄
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Aw, thanks, Colleen. Rabbit can be read as a stand-alone, but you do miss out on a lot of character development that occurred in the first book of the series. Either way, I’m glad you’re planning to check it out, and I hope you enjoy it. But be careful. Once you meet Rabbit, he tends to want to hang around in your heart for a while.
And I absolutely agree with you about Diana’s book! OH, what a story, and one that definitely resonates today.
Thanks for stopping by this morning! 😀 ❤
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OH! I thought that was book one. I’ll look for the first book in the series and start from the beginning.
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The first book is Wake-Robin Ridge, which I thought was a bucket list book, and I never planned to write more. The joke was on me. Rabbit came along in Book 2, and usurped the entire series, which I think turned out great, as he’s so much fun. Hope you enjoy any and all that you decide to read. Thanks again! 😀 ❤
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Thanks so much, Marcia. I’ll grab that book too! 💜
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Happy Reading, Colleen! 😀 ❤
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Thank you. 🙏🏻
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Oh, Colleen, you will LOVE that book. I hope I gave you the final nudge. It’s one of my all-time favorite reads. I just can’t say it enough. Thanks so much for stopping by and cheering both of us on. Lol. Happy Reading. ❤ ❤
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I grabbed the first book as well, Diana. I’m looking forward to the read.
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That one is wonderful too, Colleen, and I read it first as well. But I absolutely melted for Rabbit. My heart spilled open and smeared the pages. Oh, you have such lovely stories ahead of you. And I’m thrilled that Marcia is continuing with her Wake Robin stories.
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Wow, talk about wonderful comments, Diana! I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you feel that way about any of my works, but especially about RABBIT. I love that he has stolen your heart. (Don’t tell anybody, but he stole mine, too, and I love having him dictate his adventures to me over my shoulder!)
Thank you for encouraging me to get BACK to it! I plan to try my best as I cut back on blogging a bit for Oct, Nov, and Dec. Hope it’s enough to help me feel better physically and get back in the writing groove! You and Colleen have really brightened my day! 🤗❤️🤗
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One story at a time, Marcia. Slow and steady wins the race. ❤ ❤
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ME:
📕📖… TADA!!🐢…🐢…..🐢……..🐢…………..🐢 ………………… 🐢
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Hmmm. That didn’t look nearly as cute as I imagined! 😂
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Lol
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Now, I’m really excited. 😀 💜
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Great post and so true about finding our unique voice to make it different. Wonderful review that I completely agree with.
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It’s always great to have Diana visit TWS, and this post was a super one, for sure! So glad you enjoyed it, and that you agree with my review, too. I really loved this one, as if you can’t tell. 😀 Thanks so much for stopping by today, Denise! 😀 ❤
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Thanks for stopping by Marcia’s, Denise. I was delighted by her surprise review, and thrilled that she enjoyed the read. Thanks too for your boost for the book and my morning smile. I hope you have a beautiful clear-skied day. ❤ ❤
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I love Diana’s write-up for today’s blog tour stop! And of course, another stellar review for The Necromancer’s Daughter!
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You and me, too, Liz! Great write up on her blog, and wonderful post from her, here. And I’m so happy I finished the book in time to add my review to the mix, as well. Glad you enjoyed all of these! Thanks for stopping by to let us know! 😀 ❤
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You’re welcome, Marcia!
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Marcia gave me the idea for the post, and I can talk book stuff endlessly. Lol. I’m glad you enjoyed the stop, Liz. They’ve all been busy and such fun. Have a great day, my friend. ❤
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🙂
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Wonderful review, Marcia. You do such a good job hosting. Thanks for sharing your blog with Diana.
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All of my hosts have been wonderfully supportive, Jacqui, and that includes you. Marcia has a lively blog and I love that. So happy to be here today and enjoy her surprise review. Thanks for stopping by and have an awesome day. 🙂
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Always a pleasure to have my writing friends visit us here, including you, Jacqui! And Diana’s posts are very welcome here any day. So glad you enjoyed this one and my review, too. It’s a great book, for sure! 😀 ❤
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HI Marcia, Hi Diana, this is a most interesting post and I enjoyed Diana’s commentary about her theme for this book very much. Certainly this is a very topical subject. Thanks for hosting, Marcia.
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Thanks for taking the time to stop by Marcia’s, Robbie. It’s one of those timeless themes that’s plagued humankind for thousands of years. The US is certainly feeling those divides as we stop seeing people as individuals. I like exploring topics in imaginary worlds and often my characters have something to teach me! Have a wonderful week, my friend, and Happy Reading.
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I think it takes a certain type of mind to create a fantasy world, Diana. Not all writers can do it, and that’s a fact. I agree that this them is very topical.
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It was my pleasure to host Diana here today, Robbie. I love having my writing friends visit, especially when they have a new book to share with folks. So glad you enjoyed Diana’s topical post, and thanks so much for stopping by to let us know! 😀 ❤
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My pleasure, Marcia.
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An excellent post by Diana and an excellent review.
Joreh was such a wonderfully complex and conflicted character, and I positively loved the dragons! A fantastic book even for readers who normally don’t devour fantasy!
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Joreh was fun to write, Mae, because of his inner complexity. I like characters who do battle with themselves. 🙂 Thanks for swinging by Marcia’s and for the wonderful comment. Hugs. 🙂
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I agree 100%, Mae! I do love fantasy of many different sub-genres, but one that includes a beautiful love story and magical dragons is sure to be a hit with me. And Joreh! Watching him grow as a character was wonderful, plus Diana’s image of him is one of my favorite desktop wallpapers now. 😁 Glad you enjoyed this post, Mae, and I really appreciate your stopping by to let us know, my lovely Penderpal! 😀 ❤
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❤️
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Thanks for spotlighting Diana’s new book today. I’m halfway through, and I’d definitely recommend getting to it sooner than soon, if you can. It’s a good one! 🙂
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Science fiction and fantasy are my two favourite genres because they hold a mirror to our own world, and few writers do it as well as Diana. 🙂
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I can’t argue with that! Especially the last part. Diana does a wonderful job with fantasy, and I’m always eager to see what she comes up with next. Thanks for stopping by today and taking a moment to weigh in! 😀 ❤
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-grin- don’t tell anyone, but she writes a mean scifi fusion as well. 😀
Lovely to meet you and have a chat. Cheers!
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Hmmm … I’m thinking I really should blab that around! 😂😂😂
Lovely to meet you, as well. Hope you’ll stop by often! 😀
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-giggles- do it! And thank you, I will.
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Good to hear! I’ll be keeping an eye out for you. 😀 ❤
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That’s something I really enjoy about the two genres as well, Andrea. We can do it without it feeling confrontational or personal. That’s one of the fun things about stories in general, I think, how they can take us places and make us think about all kinds of issues in new ways. I’m glad you enjoyed the guest post. Marcia’s a wonderful host and her review was a great surprise. Happy Writing, my friend. ❤
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Yes. Fiction persuades, gently. It doesn’t clout people over the head. lol And I think it can be enjoyed at any number of levels too. Happy writing to you too, Diana. 🙂
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Such a well-deserved review, Marcia. I loved this book and these characters. Congrats to Diana!
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Thanks, Teri. Yep, Diana has done it again with this one, and I’m still thinking about how beautifully it all came together and how much I enjoyed the characters. Glad to hear you loved it, too! And thanks for stopping by to let us know! 😀 ❤
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Thanks for checking out Marcia’s review, Teri, and for the wonderful comment and support. It’s pretty thrilling. Have a great day and Happy Reading. ❤
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So great to find Diana here too today Marsh. I’m almost finished reading this exciting book and I can concur with Diana, there is plenty of action! Congrats again Diana! ❤ xx
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I hope the end of the book holds up, Debby. Thanks so much for reading and for cheering me on here at Marcia’s. You’ve started my morning with a smile. Hugs.
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Happy to do so Diana. I’m sadly, approaching the end. 🙂 xx
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There’s a little bit of everything in this book, I think, Debby, but none of it is overdone in any way. I loved the action, the shivery bits, the good and bad guys, the characters, the love story, and the perfect ending, too. Diana knocked it out of the park, didn’t she? 😊
Thanks for stopping by today, and can’t wait to hear what you think when you finish reading! 😀 ❤
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HI Marsh. I agree with everything you said. Diana certainly knocked it out of the park. I’m nearing the end – sadly, lol. And I’ll be sharing my review (which I’ve been taking notes on along the way), the Sunday after this one coming for my Sunday Book Review. And I’ll be featuring Diana for the close off of her blog tour. It’s been fun visiting blogs with variations of features. Glad to see you featuring her here today Marsh. Hugs all around ❤ xx
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I’ve enjoyed each of her tour stops, too, Debby, and will look forward to yours. So much fun to be taking part in this, isn’t it? And I was happy to find out how it all ended, but sad to have the adventure over, too. What a book! And hugs back atcha! 😀 ❤
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Thanks Marsh. And no spoilers, lol. 🙂 xx
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Thanks, my friend. It will be wonderful to read your thoughts. Hugs!
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After reading this post I’m curious whether you are a plotter or a pantser, Diana. It seems as though you plan out your high concept before drafting the story. I’m wondering how much forethought goes into your characters and settings, or do they just grow organically?
Loved this book, by the way!
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Thanks for stopping by, Jacquie. And a great question! I consider myself a plotter. I create an outline, write up bios for all the characters, and create a world-building “encyclopedia,” all before I start writing. But I leave lots and lots of wiggle room for the characters to be themselves. They have goals and I give them obstacles to overcome, but how they feel about it is up to them. 🙂 That’s the magical part of writing that I just love. ❤ ❤
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Good question, Jacquie! Thanks for prompting Diana into sharing her process with us. Very interesting, indeed! And thanks for stopping by today, too! Talking about this book and Diana’s approach to it has been a lot of fun, for sure! 😀 ❤
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I should try that method and see if the flow is better. Thanks for the advice.
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We’re all different, my friend, and need to find what works best for creativity. If you sense any flow, Jacquie, I think that’s from reading aloud. And both pantsers and plotters can do that. 🙂 😀
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You can really hear the appreciation the two of you have for each other… both as writers and as people. Loved this post. And I love your work. (Speaking to both of you.)
Thanks for hosting, Marcia.
Diana, The Necromancer’s Daughter was wonderful. (Yes, I know I already told you that. But it bears repeating.) Wishing you all the best with it.
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Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Staci. I’m delighted that you enjoyed the book, and yes, this is a mutual fan club. Lol. I love Marcia’s writing and her characters grab me every single time! I want everyone to read her books. 😀 Have a wonderful day and Happy Writing!
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I’m pretty sure Rabbit has stolen the hearts of all her readers. I really enjoy her stories. And yours, too! Have a lovely day.
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I can only speak for myself, Staci, but Diana is right up there in my estimation, as both a writer and a great online friend. I just love how our blogging and writing community builds our respect AND affection for each other, as we share and promote and connect over our mutual passion for the written word. Aren’t we the luckiest folks ANYWHERE in that regard?
And, as I wrap up yet another great book coauthored by two of my favorite online friends, I’ll be reviewing that one here and there, too. *insert sneaky laugh, here*
Thanks so much for stopping by today and taking a moment to share your thoughts. Always good to see you visiting! 😀 ❤
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I love that about our community, Marcia. I can’t think of another profession that works this way.
And I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
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As writers, we are blessed beyond measure, and I agree, Staci … there’s no other profession that gives back as much as this one.
And I’ll be reviewing that “other” book very, very soon! 🤗🤗🤗
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❤️
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It’s great, Marcia. I love the collaboration and how beautifully Staci and Mae blended their writing into a cohesive story.
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Thank you so much, Diana.
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I’m enjoying this book SO MUCH that I’m making myself just read at night, maybe 30 minutes at a time. Well, then it goes to 45 minutes. Then I make myself turn the light out and guess what I dream of? YES, dragons and necromancing. Quite interesting dreams, I must say. I am L O V I N G this book. Peach is one of my favorite authors (and my favorite fantasy author), and this book is my favorite of hers. But I say that about each one. 🙂
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Thanks so much for swinging by Marcia’s, Pam, and checking out her review. I’m flattered by your kind comment and delighted that you’re loving the book. I tend to read at night too. It’s a great way to unwind. I hope the story continues to entertain and that the end makes you smile after all the struggles. Hugs, my friend. Have a beautiful peaceful day. ❤
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I fall asleep reading in bed every night too, Pam. Sometimes I get in two hours or so, sometimes it’s only 15 or 20 minutes before the ol’ Kindle smacks me on the forehead! 😀 But I only WISH I dreamed about some of the things I’ve read. I’d LOVE to be in dragonland with Aster and friends!
So glad you enjoyed Diana’s post, and thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and let us know! 😀 ❤
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A bit frighteningly, a bit of necromancy magic snuck into my dreams. ;-0
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A wonderful review!
I especially like what Diana said when she had the floor!
I have my copy, and will be reading it soon(ish). I’m not a reviewer per se, so I’m waiting for this heady tour to be over. All the writers are/sound amazing, including you. I read Diana’s review of “A Boy Named Rabbit”. Congratulations!
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I’m so glad you enjoyed Diana’s post, Resa, and I just KNOW you are going to love The Necromancer’s Daughter, too! And thanks for your kind words about A Boy Named Rabbit, as well. He came along in Book 2 of what was going to be your basic Romantic Suspense series, and usurped the entire thing. (But I’m not complaining. It seems to be working!) 😊
Nice to see you here today, and I hope you’ll stop by often! 😀 ❤
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Stopping by was my pleasure.y pleasure!
I’ll be by again!
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Thanks for stopping by Marcia’s, Resa. I’m so glad you enjoyed reading about the book’s theme, as well as Marcia’s beautiful review. And thanks for mentioning my review of A Boy Named Rabbit. What a great book! Have a wonderful evening and Happy Reading whenever you get to it. ❤ ❤ ❤
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I love the notion of fantasies being “un-human” stories, Diana. Indeed, it takes a special type of creative mind — one I don’t possess — to build fantastical worlds, invest readers in the reality of them, and use them to convey some insight into or wisdom on the human condition. Congrats on the publication of The Necromancer’s Daughter!
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Diana has done a wonderful job on each point you mention, Sean, and her book is “fantastic” in every sense of the word.
Thanks so much for stopping by and taking a moment to weigh in on this discussion, too! 😀
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Thanks for stopping by Marcia’s, Sean. Fantasy (and sci-fi) leaves a lot of room to comment on the human condition, not unlike other books that make statements about greed, war, discrimination, good and evil, but with the distance/comfort created by speculative fiction. I remember listening to a lecture about the first post-apocalyptic (fiction) books and how they helped shaped the world’s view of nuclear war. It’s all fascinating to me. Have a wonderful evening, my friend. Happy Reading!
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Sci-fi author David Brin (The Postman) calls dystopian stories like that — novels such as Nineteen Eighty-Four, Brave New World, On the Beach, Fahrenheit 451, etc. — “self-preventing prophecies.” The storytellers can provide a tremendous public and cultural service through their creativity!
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That’s exactly what I was trying to say. Thank you!
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Fantastic post! I loved Diana’s thoughts on the themes present in her book. ❤
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So glad to know you enjoyed Diana’s post, Jaya. I thought it was wonderful, myself, and her book, likewise!
Thanks for stopping by today to let us know your thoughts, too! 😀 ❤
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Thanks for swinging by, Marcia’s, Jaya. I could talk about writing and books endlessly. It was fun to share my thoughts on the theme of the book. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy Writing!
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Congratulations, Diana. I’m thoroughly enjoying your book. Thank you, Marcia, for helping to spread the good news. ❤️🎉❤️
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It’s always a pleasure to have guests here so I can help them get the word out, but it’s especially so when it involves great friends and their equally-great books! So glad you stopped by today, Gwen, and thanks for taking a moment to say hello, too! 😀 ❤
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My pleasure, Marcia. ❤️
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Thanks so much for the visit, Gwen, and I’m thrilled that you’re enjoying the book. I’ve been having a lovely time here at Marcia’s. Her review was wonderful and I’m so grateful.
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Marcia is an angel, and like you, she’s a beautiful writer.
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❤
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I am seeing so many great reviews for this one. I have it on my Kindle, and I may have to bump it up my TBR list.
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If you love beautifully written fantasy, with plenty of drama, powerful action scenes, gloriously magical dragons, and a perfectly constructed and totally believable love story that enhances everything mentioned above, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this one, Beem. Go for it! And thanks for stopping by and taking a moment to say hello! Have a great ThorsDay! 😀
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Aww. Your comments set my heart aflutter, Marcia. ❤
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Thanks so much, Beem, for taking the time to stop by Marcia’s and read her review. The book is getting a lot of kind attention, and I’m grateful for every word. Have an excellent evening and Happy Reading!
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wow Macia! a great review. I had to scroll a long while to get to this popular post and great book. Can’t wait for my copy to come💗
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Lol. I’m glad you found it, my friend. Marcia is a wonderful host, and I always have a great time when visiting her blog. And her review… well this one made my day. Huge hugs for stopping by and commenting. And I can’t wait to hear what you think of the book. ❤ ❤ ❤
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This is a lot of interviews but highly entertaining and she is a great host alright. It was a gem of a review and I loved the first chapter you wrote and I’ll definitely keep you posted🥰🙏🏼
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Yay! Thank you.
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💕🥰
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