Falhorne: Dark Dawn by Tristan Dineen - Immersive dark fantasy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Falhorne: Dark Dawn is a sweeping and uncompromising entry in Tristan Dineen’s epic fantasy saga. At once brutal and deeply human, it’s a story that doesn’t flinch from darkness but never feels gratuitous. Instead, every moment of violence and hardship carries weight, shaping the characters and the world around them.

 

About the book: Falhorne: Dark Dawn  

The novel follows Tagus as he pursues the slavers who stole away his people, pulling him into the oppressive heart of Trastamere — a land of plantations, rebel camps, and spiritual unrest. Dineen masterfully weaves a tale of survival and resistance against both mortal cruelty and an ancient, rising darkness that blots out the sun.

BookHookup review: Falhorne: Dark Dawn 

What makes Dark Dawn stand out is its characters. Tagus and his companions are not painted in broad strokes but given depth and flaws that make them feel alive. They wrestle with trauma, faith, hope, and despair in ways that are deeply relatable, even within the grand sweep of epic fantasy.

 

The writing itself is vivid and confident. Dineen’s worldbuilding is immersive, full of cultural nuance, myth, and history. It’s dense at times — the pacing slower in early chapters as the stage is set — but patient readers will be rewarded with a rich and layered story.

Yes, there is blood. Yes, there is suffering. But rather than shock for its own sake, these elements add gravity to a world where choices matter and survival has a cost.

For fans of dark, character-driven epic fantasy, Falhorne: Dark Dawn is a compelling and worthwhile read. It’s not a light or quick tale, but it is one that lingers, both for its imagery and its humanity. I recommend reading Falhorne: The World Is Burning first for a totally immersive experience.

A Fraying of Schemes - Perfect for fans of clean, sweet fiction

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blythe Baker’s A Fraying of Schemes is a delightful historical cozy mystery that’s both easy to read and sweet in tone, even while centering on a murder. This third installment of the Dickinson Sisters Mysteries finds Iris and Lily staying at a hotel while their home is under repair—a temporary inconvenience that quickly turns into something far more sinister when a guest is found dead.

 

 

About the Book: A Fraying of Schemes

The historical setting adds an extra layer of charm and atmosphere. Social expectations, reputation, and the rhythms of the time period all shape how the sisters approach their investigation, grounding the mystery in a believable past. I enjoyed the way Baker wove these details into the story without making it feel heavy-handed, the history enhances the plot rather than slowing it down.

BookHookup Review: A Fraying of Schemes 

One of the strongest parts of the book is the interaction between the characters. The bond between the Dickinson sisters is warm and engaging, and their exchanges with the other hotel guests provide both humor and tension. The mystery itself is well-paced, with enough clues dropped along the way to keep me guessing. I found myself actively piecing things together, trying to determine who killed Mr. Igram, and the eventual reveal was satisfying without feeling too predictable.

Overall, A Fraying of Schemes is an enjoyable and accessible read. With its mix of historical flavor, likable characters, and a solid puzzle at its core, it’s a perfect choice for fans of cozy mysteries who enjoy a touch of history alongside their sleuthing.

A Cozy Mystery with Heart: Scraps of Paper

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Kathryn Meyer Griffith’s Scraps of Paper (Spookie Town Murder Mysteries Book 1) is more than just a murder mystery—it’s a heartfelt story of loss, resilience, and the unexpected ways new beginnings can unfold.

At the center is Abigail Sutton, a woman grieving the tragic loss of her husband. Hoping to heal, she settles into a quiet small town and purchases an old fixer-upper. But this house carries dark secrets of its own. Hidden scraps of paper—tucked away in walls and floorboards—whisper of a long-ago disappearance that has haunted the town for thirty years. Soon, Abigail uncovers not just clues but graves, drawing her into a decades-old mystery alongside Frank Lester, a retired homicide detective.

What follows is a carefully woven tale where everyday life blends with intrigue. Griffith captures the rhythms of small-town living, the comfort of unexpected friendships, and the healing power of community, all while layering in suspense. A touch of the paranormal adds an atmospheric chill without overwhelming the cozy, slice-of-life feel. And threaded through the tension is a quiet, believable spark of romance between Abigail and Frank—two wounded souls finding solace in one another while chasing justice.

For readers who enjoy mysteries that are as much about people as they are about crimes, Scraps of Paper offers a satisfying mix. It’s a cozy mystery with heart, rich in atmosphere, and anchored by a heroine whose compassion makes her both relatable and inspiring.

Miss Blaire in Blackwell's Island - Chilling, romantic, unforgettable

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Miss Blaire in Blackwell’s Island by Grace Hitchcock is a historical romance with a haunting twist. Set in 1887 New York, the story follows heiress Edyth Blaire, who refuses to live by society’s rules. While other young women lace themselves into corsets and search for husbands, Edyth rides her velocipede boldly through the city (corset-free). She takes fencing lessons with the man she has secretly loved for nearly a decade. When he finally notices her in a new light, sparks fly, and their friendship begins to deepen into something more.

But just weeks before her twenty-fifth birthday, Edyth’s uncle finds a way to seize control of her inheritance: he declares her insane and has her committed to Blackwell’s Island asylum. To tighten his hold, her name is never recorded, and the staff mockingly call her “Duchess,” stripping away her identity along with her freedom.

Inside the asylum, Edyth meets Nellie Bly, the undercover journalist determined to expose the truth about the institution. Their friendship brings strength and hope, while Edyth’s slow-burn romance with her longtime friend offers a tender counterpoint to the suspense. Meanwhile, her beau does everything in his power to rescue her, but he’s up against immense wealth and influence, forces that make escape nearly impossible.

 

BookHookup Book Review: Miss Blaire in Blackwell's Island 

The novel shines in its mix of fact and fiction. Real history enriches the fictionalized narrative without ever weighing it down. The asylum scenes are vivid and unsettling, yet the emotional core remains tender, reminding us that love and hope can bloom even in the darkest places.

With twists, danger, and a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance, Miss Blaire in Blackwell’s Island is engrossing, emotional, and ultimately uplifting—a perfect read for romance fans who also enjoy a touch of mystery and historical intrigue.

Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain – Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure

⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain by T.X. Troan is the first in a middle-grade fantasy series. It follows Sophia, a young girl who discovers family secrets and a hidden world when she’s swept onto a mysterious island filled with magical creatures, danger, and wonder. Blending adventure, mystery, and beautiful illustrations, the book introduces readers to a whimsical tale about courage, family, and finding your place in a strange new world.

BookHooup Book Review: Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain 

Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain is a whimsical, fast-paced fantasy with some lovely strengths. The illustrations are beautiful and really add to the experience, and the story moves quickly with plenty of imaginative twists. I can easily see younger readers or families enjoying it as a fun read-aloud.

Where it didn’t work as well for me was in the writing style. The story often uses a passive voice, which left me feeling like I was on the outside looking in rather than experiencing the adventure alongside Sophia. Because of that, I couldn’t connect with her as deeply as I wanted, and the emotional weight of her journey never quite landed.

Readers who enjoyed Fablehaven by Brandon Mull will enjoy this magical island and its creatures but Mull’s world is more fleshed out and immersive. Overall, this is a charming middle-grade fantasy with broad appeal, but for me, the distance created by the storytelling style keeps it at a solid 3 stars.

Falhorne: The World Is Burning - Highly recommended for fans of epic fantasy

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

Falhorne: The World Is Burning by Tristan Dineen is the first book in an epic fantasy series set in the land of Vinos. The story follows Tagus, one of the last surviving members of the ancient Falhorne order, as he’s forced onto a perilous journey after tragedy strikes his people. With darkening skies, persecution of the Old Believers, and rising evil across the realm, Tagus must face both external threats and the shadows of his own past.

 

BookHookup Book Review: Falhorne: The World Is Burning 

Dineen has created an entirely original world in Falhorne: The World Is Burning—one that feels fully realized, with its own geography, cultures, histories, and traditions. The depth of the lore is impressive, and the worldbuilding is meticulous, demanding some patience from readers as the stage is set, but ultimately rewarding for those who enjoy immersive fantasy.

At the heart of the story is Tagus, one of the last of the Vinosian Falhorne. When his mentor is killed, his comrades are massacred, and his people are enslaved, he is thrust onto a perilous quest that forces him to confront not only the darkness around him but also the shadows of his own past. The narrative is intricate, weaving together multiple storylines and subplots that gradually build into a sweeping, layered tale.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its diverse cast of characters: from noble warriors and ordinary people to those with command of strange and powerful magics, as well as truly formidable villains. Each brings something vital to the story, and the conflicts feel weighty and real, heightening the stakes at every turn.

While I found the pacing a bit slow at first, once the groundwork was laid, I was hooked. The writing is strong, the emotional pull is undeniable, and by the end, I was fully invested in Tagus and his world. I’m glad I didn’t set this one aside, because it grew into a compelling and memorable read.

I can’t wait to dive into the next installment. Highly recommended for fans of epic fantasy who love intricate plots, deep worldbuilding, and characters worth caring about.

About the Author

Tristian Dineen is an independent author of dark fantasy, with a complete two-novel series, The Falhorne Saga, and a second series currently in production. Drawn to darker, grittier fantasy for its reflection of the complexities of medieval European history, Dineen crafts worlds where morality is nuanced, political and economic forces shape behavior, and heroes face real challenges and loss.

The Falhorne series, beginning with Falhorne: The World Is Burning and concluding with Falhorne: Dark Dawn, follows Tagus, one of the last of the Falhorne, as he struggles to protect the persecuted Old Believers in the politically volatile land of Vinos. Inspired by Renaissance Italy and early modern Europe, his worldbuilding emphasizes believable societies, complex characters, and morally intricate conflicts.

Merging elements of fantasy, horror, and historical fiction, Dineen explores themes of power, oppression, and heroism in settings that are immersive, richly detailed, and grounded in real-world parallels. Their upcoming series is set in another part of the same fantasy world, inspired by medieval South Asia, continuing to explore epic struggles against unimaginable threats.

 

Pei’s Pineapple Cakes - a picture book treasure

Pei’s Pineapple Cakes by Crystal Z. Lee, with illustrations by Allie Su, is a heartwarming picture book that beautifully blends mystery, culture, and family traditions.

When young Pei visits her grandmother in central Taiwan, she discovers that the pineapple cakes from her grandmother’s bakery have mysteriously disappeared. Together, Pei and her grandmother set out to solve the mystery, following clues through picturesque villages and uncovering the beauty of local traditions along the way.

BookHookup book review: Pei's Pineapple Cakes 

The story shines not only as a delightful adventure but also as an introduction to Taiwan’s rich culture. Real locations provide a backdrop that makes the book both educational and immersive. The bilingual English and Mandarin text encourages language learning, while the themes of kindness, empathy, and resilience spark meaningful conversations between children and adults.

 

The illustrations by Allie Su are stunning—rich in detail, vibrant in color, and full of life. Young readers will be captivated by the artwork, often “reading” the story themselves through the pictures.

At its heart, Pei’s Pineapple Cakes celebrates the special bond between grandparent and grandchild, while inspiring appreciation for heritage and tradition. It’s both an engaging mystery and a cultural treasure.

A charming, beautifully illustrated, and educational story that deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf.

*** 

 As BookHookup, I am a longtime book reviewer. I received a free review copy of this book from Blackberry Book Tours and have not received compensation for reviewing or recommending it. Some links in this post are affiliate links. 

About the Author: Crystal Z. Lee

Crystal Z. Lee is a Taiwanese American bilingual writer. She has called many places home, including Taipei, New York, Shanghai, and the San Francisco Bay Area. She was formerly a public relations executive who had worked in the fashion, beauty and technology industries. She is the author of a novel, LOVE AND OTHER MOODS, and children's books: PEI'S PINEAPPLE CAKES, MEI'S MERMAID MISSION, A UNICORN NAMED RIN and KAI THE DANCING BUTTERFLY. Her poetry was recently included in the UK anthology, TABULA RASA.  

Hope in Paris - Clever and Unique Suspense

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Hope in Paris (Vol. I The Teddy Bear Chronicles) by Donnalyn Vojta is a suspenseful and unexpectedly heartwarming story told through an entirely unique lens: the eyes of three stuffed teddy bears—Fair Bear, Love Bear, and Sleepy Time Bear. These adorable inanimate narrators share the story of Kelly Donovan and her desperate attempt to escape an abusive relationship, bringing a blend of charm and tension to an otherwise heavy subject.

 

BookHookup Book Review: Hope in Paris 

At first, the narrative structure threw me off. Expecting three distinct stories told by different teddy bears, I didn’t immediately recognize that it was one continuous tale with rotating perspectives. The early shifts—from Richard’s arc to Kelly and Mark’s, and later to Ms. V’s—felt jarring until I understood that each bear was offering a window into their own household. Once that became clear, the design revealed its brilliance: the interconnected storylines deepen the drama, and the gradual layering of suspense makes the book increasingly immersive.

                                      Available on Amazon

 

Hope in Paris is a quick, engaging read with a creative narrative style and an emotionally rich plot. The mix of suspense, light romance, and clever narration makes this read an enjoyable experience. I'm intrigued to see what happens in Volume Two and how Vojta continues to develop this unique storytelling format.

⚠️ Though it features teddy bear narrators, this is not a children’s book. It includes serious themes such as domestic abuse and is best suited for readers 14 and up.

*** 

As BookHookup, I am a longtime book reviewer. I received a free review copy of this book from Black Tide Book Tours and have not received compensation for reviewing or recommending it. Some links in this post are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliate sites 

About the Author: Donnalyn Vojta

• 2019 Underground Indie Film Festival Official Selection (Script Hope in Paris!)
• 2018 Quarterfinalist SCREENCRAFT Cinematic Novel Contest
• 2018 EYELANDS BOOK AWARDS TOP FINALIST! (international)

Donnalyn Vojta doesn't read for pleasure. She doesn't know why and knows it's weird. But she loves movies (especially action/adventure and thrillers), and absolutely loves writing.

To stay up-to-date on info on her novels and reviews check her out on Goodreads (link below).

She practiced law as a litigation and real estate transactions attorney for over 13 years but then quit that career to do something that makes her happy, and thus she is a novelist and loving it. Volumes I and II of THE TEDDY BEAR CHRONICLES have been met with wonderful ratings and reviews. All of the details about them can be found on Goodreads.com and on Amazon. In addition to writing novels, she is an award-winning screenwriter with two feature scripts in development with fantastic producers.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnalyn-m-vojta-85481813

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07HJGNN29

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16869100.Donnalyn_Vojta