Rhe’s Bookshelf ~ The Last Lumenian Series by SG Blaise

Get ready! It’s my first Rhe’s Bookshelf in just a bit and I’m journey through a SciFi world of fantasy. It’s kind of out of my typical genre preference, but I’m nothing if not adventurous. Not really sure what to expect I decided to dive right in without reading up on it at all. So, let’s jump right in here too.

The Last Lumenian series is two books – Book One, of the same name, and Book Two, True Teryn. We meet Lilla, General Callum, Prince Arrov, and Lillia’s best friend Glenna. She sets out to free refugees forced to work in her homeland. She joins the rebellion to save the people but she ends up on a journey to save herself, and discover who she truly is and what purpose she serves. In Book Two, Lilla finds herself in a new role, but still fighting to do the right thing. You will truly find yourself interested in these characters, and in the story. I myself was surprised.

Lilla is sassy and fiery and you want to root for her. Blaise’s ability to write the characters in such a vivid way so that you can not only envision the characters but their clothes and their homeland. Throughout both books to learn more about Lilla’s mother, a looming presence in her life. She died with Lilla was little and took with her secrets that will change the way Lilla views not only herself but the world around her. Full disclosure, there is just a sprinkling of romance in the books as well, which really make it the perfect young adult book in my mind. It is a quick and easy read, which really short chapters, but you don’t miss out on any of the information and intrigue one needs in a good book.

Important to note – a few “love scenes” are present in the series, and some mild language

I enjoyed reading this book. It might not have totally sold me on the genre but if fantasy, magic, and sci-fi is in your jam you absolutely need to grab this book for yourself. Snag your copies below!

  • The Last Lumenian: Sci-Fi Fantasy and Action-Adventure of the Rebel Princess named Lilla
  • True Teryn: Sci-Fi Adventure of Lilla discovering the greatest secret in the Seven Galaxies (The Last Lumenian Book 2)

About the Author

S.G. was born in a faraway land of castles, monarchies, and fallen dictatorships, aka Hungary. Hollywood movies were forbidden under Soviet oppression during her childhood, but her dad smuggled them in, risking his life so that his children could experience the magic and hope inherent in those stories.  She watched rebellions unfold in real-time. Journeyed across the Atlantic Ocean for love.  She ended up in sunny California, where she is living her dream — writing stories and annoying family members.

Learn more by visiting SG Blaise’s website and social

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Disclosure – This post is part of the book release blog tour and I was compensated for my participation. As always, my reviews, thoughts, and opinions are not purchased.
Rhe’s Bookshelf prides itself on bringing you accurate and honest reviews. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Rhe’s Bookshelf: Vanessa Rasanen’s Soldier On {Blog Tour}

I am so excited to be participating in Vanessa’s blog tour! I’ve been following the whole process of this book, anxiously awaiting its release. I happen to be lucky enough to know Vanessa before she released this book! As fellow Guard spouses, bloggers and lovers of beer we have been connected for several years. The Guard world is a special one, and I don’t often seen books written about it, especially in the romance novel genre. As a book blogger that specializes in military romance I look for them, trust me. They just aren’t out there. And maybe one of these days I’ll make good on my process of actually trying to write my own book I’m glad that amazing writers like Vanessa are out there doing it right now!

Clearly I’m biased….but I promise I won’t let that interfere with my book reviewing! Being so lucky as to know many of the authors I review I’ve gotten good at still having truth to my book reviews. But, this is more than just a review guys! This is a book launch, blog tour AND giveaway! Head over to the other blogs that are reviewing to read more AND enter to win some pretty cools stuff!

October 30 – Review – Mary J Moerbe
October 31 – Review – Grit & Grace
November 1 – Review – Cammo Style Love
November 2 – Review – Sister, Daughter, Mother, Wife
and First Line Friday – Faithfully Bookish
November 3 – Interview – The Nap Time Author
November 5 – Guest Post – Christian Shelf Esteem
November 6 – Review – Pure Joy Creative
November 7 – Review – Lights in a Dark World
Summary

He’s fighting for his country. She’s praying for his safety. When tragedy strikes, can their marriage and faith survive?

Charlie and Meg Winters are no strangers to the military life and the challenges it brings. But when an IED rips through his convoy killing his friends, the loss proves almost too much to bear.

Meg finds her trust in Christ wavering, and secrets she’s been keeping for years drive a wedge between her and her husband.

What if everything Meg believes is a lie?

What if Charlie finds out what she’s done?

Can Meg and Charlie save their marriage or will the horrors of war and the ghosts of their past tear them apart and forever shipwreck her faith?

Soldier On is a gripping contemporary women’s fiction novel. If you like inspirational stories of faith tested under pressure, then you’ll love Vanessa Rasanen’s true-to-life novel.

Review

This book spoke to me on many levels, but I didn’t realize how much it affect me. The spiritual aspects of this book are intense, therefore I would recommend this book to those looking for a faith based novel. I think that there are few books that take on a realistic and deep view of spiritual struggles and the power of faith. Vanessa takes that on full force and masters it wonderfully. Sneaking into the dark and very real places that the thoughts of military wives goes. Being a military wife is definitely not rosy. It is hard and full of tears and ugly struggles. But it is also beautiful, and this shines through on the pages of Solider On.

The relationship between Meg and Charlie is one of beautiful struggle. What they have faced is something that many people haven’t. Its one that few people in our communities, schools and even churches can relate to or understand.

Vanessa’s writing is expressive and intricate, with a level of understanding of her denomination of faith that is clear. It focuses heavily on the Lutheran denomination but that wouldn’t preclude those of other denominations from enjoying that part of it. With complex portrayal of character, yet easy to read, I would recommend this book to my faith based military romance loving readers! Even those with no military connection would enjoy this. In fact I would say it gives a stunningly accurate portrayal of military life that civilians could greatly benefit from.

5 out of 5 stars

{for details on my rating system check out the Rhe’s Bookshelf tabl}

Thanks for stopping by the book tour! Enter the Soldier On Book Release Giveaway

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To purchase the book on your preferred platform click the links below {affiliate links are present! Thanks for support this author and this book blogger!}

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Rhe’s Bookshelf ~ A Military Romance, a 2017 Summer Must-Read and a Presidential Challenge {book review}

Book Reviews by Rheanna, Rhe's Bookshelf

This summer has been such a good reading summer for me. I know how important reading is for my self-care and mental health, and I’ve really been trying to devote time to that. Bonus is that my kids are reading more WITH me, which is such an awesome thing. Creating independent readers has always been something I’ve wanted for my kids. If you are new to the blog and my bookshelf posts there is one thing you need to know. I’m one of those people that reads three or more books at a time. I know, its totally crazy!! Or perhaps its not so crazy and you’ve finally found someone as crazy as you. So, let me present to you my last multi-read group of books. A military inspirational romance from a repeat author for me. Please support Debby Giusti because not only is she a phenomenal writer, she has donated books to me for military spouses in the past and I just love that. I also try to read books (rather informally) with my good group of girlfriends here in the neighborhood. We had a tough time finding a book we could all request at the library, so I had the idea of searching last summer’s must read list. That is how we ended up with a rather interesting historical fiction book that I ended up truly loving. Lastly, my mom gave me the idea that inspired this latest read. I decided to read a book about each president. While I fancy myself a history buff, there is also something to be learned.

{click to purchase}

Colleen Brennan has one goal—take down her sister’s killer. But chasing after evidence leaves her in the path of a tornado and stranded in an Amish community. With the killer nearby, Colleen must depend on the kindness of Special Agent Frank Gallagher. Although the army officer is recuperating from a battlefield injury, he wants to help the beautiful woman he rescued from the tornado’s fury. He can tell she’s hiding something important. But getting her to reveal her secrets may be his most dangerous mission ever. {Debby Giusti Website}

Review

This is my second Debby Giusti book in the “military investigations” series. This book combines Debby’s affinity for military and amish writing. Her books always keep me on my toes and have a great twist in the end. What I also love about the books is that faith plays a constant, but subtle role in the books. Being weaved in and out of the characters, slowly pulling at their hearts in a way that really speaks to me. She makes it feel so naturally a part of the characters lives, which I think is such a realistic way of doing it. I’ve read many inspirational novels and there is definitely a wrong way to do it, where it is just rammed down your throat in such a way that you forget about the story that you are reading. The reality of the emotions that the character of Frank was going through, as a soldier recovering from wounds sustained in battle, were very real. Debby always delivers when it comes to the reality of military aspects of her books. As a reader, who also happens to be a military spouse, it is difficult for me to read books that have blatant discrepancy or do not ring true. While I do read books for fun, I expect books with military aspects to be accurate. {PS: I am available for consults – i take free books as payment, LOL}

This is a book I would read again so it gets by coveted 5 out of 5 stars rating!!

{click to purchase]

Raised among wealth and privilege during America’s fabled Gilded Age, a niece of famous novelist Edith Wharton and a friend to literary great Henry James, Beatrix Farrand is expected to marry, and marry well. But as a young woman traveling through Europe with her mother and aunt, she already knows that gardens are her true passion.

How this highborn woman with unconventional views escapes the dictates of society to become the most celebrated female landscape designer in the country is the story of her unique determination to create beauty and serenity while remaining true to herself.

Beatrix’s journey begins at the age of twenty-three in the Borghese Gardens of Rome, where she meets beguiling Amerigo Massimo, an Italian gentleman of sensitivity and charm—a man unlike any she has known before. {Goodreads Synopsis}

Review

It’s been awhile since I’ve read an historical novel. I’m fairly certain it was The Other Boleyn girl (which by the way is an amazing read). This book was on 2017’s summer must read list. I discovered it by perusing around on the internet looking for 2018 summer reads. It was then I realized that trying to find enough copies at the library for me and my friends to check out would be difficult for any of this summer’s must reads. That is how I found this amazing book. I’m a succor for a good cover and this one is lovely!!! From the losely swept up red hair to the beautiful gown that I can literally feel swaying as a I look at it. It caught my attention and drew me in. Beatrix Farrand is the focus of the story, however I would argue that our narrator is one of the characters that might have been intended to be secondary but ended up being the someone I wanted to read about just as much as our lead. Beatrix is a real person, and also happens to be on of the first female landscape architects {you go girl}. Its safe to say that I had never given that one thought, but I learned a lot about that line of work. What I truly loved about this book is that it really helped me picture the sweeping french landscapes, the bustling city life, Rome and the colosseum. And like any true Jane Austen fan, I love to get indigent about societies rules for love and men and women. A good romeo and juliet type love thrown in there makes for epic storytelling. Jeanne Mackin’s attention to detail and devotion to showing the trueness of the time and the characters showed in her writing. Seeing an author take on a real person with respect, while also creating a realistic story that is enjoyable takes talent. Its too easy to take on something like this and runaway with it.

Three and half out of five stars

{click to purchase}

In this thought-provoking look at George Washington as soldier and statesman, Richard Brookhiser traces the astonishing achievements of Washington’s career and illuminates how his character and his values shaped the beginnings of American politics.

Brookhiser recaptures the real George Washington in this against-the-grain biographical study that chronicles a remarkable quarter-century career in public life—a record of achievements that is virtually unmatched by any modern leader. Brookhiser recounts Washington’s heroic deeds as general and president, his temperament and training, and reflects upon his legacy.  {Goodreads Summary}

Review

I hadn’t done any research on what to read or what is recommended. I just went to the library and started looking around. I snatched this one because it wasn’t overwhelming in size really.  This was such a great book and I learned a lot about our first president that I didn’t really know. What I love about the idea of reading a book about our Presidents (especially our early ones) is that they should be known for more than simply being the first one or first ones. So often they are relegated to that title as being the only reason we should remember. We get very little about them beyond that. When we moved to Virginia I really wanted to take all of that in, and this book was a great addition to that education. I can’t wait to move on to President Number 2!! Join me in this challenge and snag this book from Amazon or your local library. Its easy to read but full of information, the perfect balance for those that consider themselves history buffs or those that would like to dip their toe in the history deep end. 

Four out of five stars

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Rhe’s Bookshelf – May Recap

Book Reviews by Rheanna, Rhe's Bookshelf

This post contains affiliate links in images and word links 

Happy June Ya’ll! It’s the first day of June (almost officially summer), school is almost out for us, its National Donut Day and I’ve been reading like a crazy women. May was a good reading month and I’ll be sharing my May reads with you in this post. Make sure you are following me on Facebook because when I can I share links to the books I’ve read, especially when they are on sale or Free!

Troublemaker by Leah Remini

This book is still quite expensive in both the hands on book and kindle versions so I picked this up at my local library. Ever since I started watching her show on A&E I’ve wanted to read this. Scientology has always fascinated me, I mean Tom Cruise jumping on a couch, hello! I’ve learned a ton by watching her show, and reading this book just added to that. I think its such an important read and it took guts to write this. I admire her for doing this! This book is raw and real, and really written in her voice. Its easy to read and I powered through it. I ended it wanting more. Add this book to your summer book list.

    3 out of 5 Stars

 

True Crime Addict by James Renner

Another random library find! I was just trolling through the library and the title of this book popped out at me. This title definitely describes me, and while I wouldn’t say I completely identify with the author of this book; I would say that I became as interested in his life as I was in the case that he was discussing. Among current true crime buffs, the Maura Murray case is big. Its one of the mysteries that is so mysterious you can’t stop thinking about it. There’s no end to discussing it. Countless podcasts have tackled it, as well as a documentary or two. What is interesting about this book is that I wouldn’t necessarily call it strikingly well written. At times he rambles and thoughts seem disconnected. He goes between his own personal life and the case. But like Leah’s book, Renner is raw and real and that is what I personally love as a reader! It speaks to me and draws me in. I feel things on a deep level, and whether that is good or bad I’m not sure. This book is a must-read for true crimers, and while you’re at it track down Renner’s previous book, which is about the Amy Mihaljevic.

3 out of 5 stars


One of my girlfriends had checked this book out of the library, and she sped through it. There were so many holds placed on it that she decided to pass it around our little group. I snatched it up because it has been a long time since I have read a book on the “Just came out” list. I sped through this book as well. It is complex, but readable. Twists and turns that will catch you off guard. I had to go back and re-read portions to make sure that I really was reading what I was reading. Hendricks and Pekkanen capture your imagination and tap into your raw feelings, pulling you into the lives of the women in this book. If you want to check it out your best bet is probably the library. The Kindle version of this book is still over $10 on amazon. But you can read the first four chapters for free! I would highly recommend this book, and I’m adding this book to list of books that I would read again.

5 out of 5 stars

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Rhe’s Bookshelf: Bookshelf Update!

Gosh, I haven’t done one of these in awhile. I’ve been really killing it in the book reading department this year. I made sort of a pact with myself to do some more reading, and really make that part of my self-care. Believe me, just sitting and reading a book goes a long way to get me through most things – loneliness, sadness, anger and frustration. Just hanging out with the characters in a book can really make a whole lot of things better for awhile. I’m going to catch you up on on the books I’ve been reading for the past month. Hopefully they catch your attention and you want to snag them for yourselves. Find me on Goodreads and check out all my bookshelves, or check out the Rhe’s Bookshelf tab up top for more. You can snag your own copies of all the books listed below by clicking on the image.

Synopsis

After a decade of making it on her own, Irish immigrant, Blayne MacCaffrey is determined to return to her homeland and make peace with her father, who hasn’t forgiven her for deserting the family—for what she believed was true love. Her ticket home is in the bag with the launch of the Archer Conservation Park of Cape Van Buren. Only she must partner with the devastatingly sexy heartbreaker who first awakened her desires and unequivocally destroyed her dreams years ago.

 

This is the second book in the On the Cape series and I’m so in love! I plowed through this book. I can guess what is coming in the series and I already can not wait to see where it goes. These are such good characters, and just the fact that you’re dealing with old love, moving on, not moving on….you guys this book gave me some serious tingles. MK Meredith delivers yet again with this sweet, yet sultry, small town romance. The main character Blayne has such spice to her, and I loved her as a character even in the first book in this series. And since I’m such a book cover snob I can’t not comment about how much I love it.

Synopsis

When you read this book, you will make many assumptions.
You will assume you are reading about a jealous wife and her obsession with her replacement.
You will assume you are reading about a woman about to enter a new marriage with the man she loves.
You will assume the first wife was a disaster and that the husband was well rid of her.
You will assume you know the motives, the history, the anatomy of the relationships.
Assume nothing.

You guys, this book….whoa is almost all I can say. My friend got it from the library and read it in like half a second. Then we passed it around to each other and we all read this thing in two days. It is incredible and the first secular fiction (non romance) that I’ve read in a while that makes you obsessed.It sucks you in from the very beginning with paragraphs that keep you on your toes. It is incredible writing and deserves every accolade its getting right now. Greer and Sarah bring you into the story of Vanessa and Nellie and you don’t know who to feel sorry for! I literally can’t even write any more because I will give it away. This page-turning, psychological thriller is worth every second of your time.  And once you read it, send me a message so we can talk about it….because I really can’t even properly review it here guys. Must read! Go. Now.

 

Synopsis

Mason Hall, Navy SEAL, knows all about difficult assignments, but his current mission is one for the record books. Not only must he find a wife—and get her pregnant—or forfeit the ranch his family has prized for generations, he must also convince his three brothers to marry, too—before the year is up. Who knew one city girl and three wayward brothers could put up such a fight?


I’m a Cora Seton fan, and this is such a fun series to add to your list. It is semi-steamy, with a couple sexual scenes, but doesn’t sacrifice the story for that. Of course it is sort of unbelievable right…but who reads romance all the time for “this could totally happen to me!” Its sweet, sad, fun and even made me laugh. It’s everything you want in an easy to read, sweet romance. At the beginning of the story Mason is leaving the military, so this is not a military romance in that you deal with anything about him serving. In fact that is almost non-existent in the story. I would read it again and that, to me, says a lot of about a book. Another A+ from Cora Seton!

Synopsis

Pepper Blue wants a baby. Forget the husband. She’s better at training men to be good husbands for other women than she is at getting one herself, so she’s doing this on her own.
But she hasn’t exactly shared the news with her family, and they’re determined to find her a date to the next family wedding. A date that won’t leave with one of her sisters or cousins. This time.
Which means Pepper Blue needs a fake boyfriend. A fake boyfriend that she has no chance of actually falling in love with. A fake boyfriend like her obnoxious neighbor.

Number 6 in the Misfits Bride of Bliss Series…and please don’t ever stop Jamie!!!! I still want more! I love this series, and this one has quickly topped out at my favorite one yet! What I particularly love about this book, and the series in general, is that it pays homage to the other characters in the books before this one, the town is its own character and and that never disappears. Jamie Farrell takes you into Bliss, a town that seems both completely normal and also completely ridiculous…never could be real in a million years. I’m not sure how she does it, but each time Ms. Farrell gives me exactly what I want in a women’s fiction, sweet romance, with a little spice (pun intended) and a small town I want to move to like yesterday. Tony is actually the best and one of my favorite of the Farrell hunks, country singer Billy aside. Because what could top a Luke Bryan romance knock-off. No one, in case you were wondering. I’ve reviewed a ton of Jamie’s novels on my bookshelf tab, and you can find links to this book and my other favorites under “Favorite Things” on the side bar!

Stay Tuned for These Reviews Coming Soon

True Crime Addict by James Renner

The Solider’s Email Order Bride by Cora Seton

Forever My Girl by Heidi McLaughlin

Troublemaker by Leah Remini

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