The Spirit Guide by Elizabeth Davies

The Spirit Guide is a historical fiction written by Elizabeth Davies.

Set in 12th century Britain and told in the first person perspective, the story is about Seren, a 16-year old gentlewoman who has the ability to see and communicate with spirits of dead people. 

As she leaves her home to accompany Lady Matilda de Braose at Hay Castle, Seren meets various people whom she comes to love, to hate and to fear. Among them are Lady Matilda herself, Lady Matilda's most trusted adviser Vaughan fitz Maddock and an unknown knight whom she previously meets in the siege of Painscastle. 

For a paranormal story, this is creepy in an exciting way.  I have read several books with characters who can communicate with spirits but this is the first time I read about someone who guides the spirits to the light, making this story unique for me. 

There are so many things I like about this book. First of which, of course, is the romance part which is at times blissful and at other times painful, exactly how romance is supposed to be. Second is the surprises. They are plenty, making this book very difficult to put down. Finally, the ending is just awesome. It is not what I expected and I love it. 

Moreover, I commend the author for her top-rate descriptions. The settings are vividly described and the characters seem alive I can see them in my mind. 

Though I find the pace a little too slow and the use of language appropriate for the setting, somehow, makes for slow reading, still, it is one amazing read and I recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction, romance and paranormal. 

Congratulations to Elizabeth Davies (@BethsBooks) on such an amazing book! 

Rune Gate by Mark E. Cooper

Rune Gate is the first book in the Rune Gate Cycle written by Mark E. Cooper.

The book features Alex Yorke, a police clairvoyant who is actually a witch. After an unfortunate incident, Alex withdrew to the peace and quiet of the farm she inherited from her grandfather. However, when her friend Deputy Jenn Hale asked her to check out a crime scene, she could not refuse and she discovered a rune on the body of the murdered victim. Not long after that, another body was found.

In the midst of the growing number of victims, Alex accidentally came across Douglas, a stranger who seem to be lost in place and time, but is somehow connected to the killings.

Though I initially dismissed this book as another witch story, I was completely surprised by an unexpected turn at Chapter 5. From then on, I could not put it down. I was totally intrigued. The arrival of the new and charming character makes the story even more interesting. 

However, I was a little disappointed by the cliffhanger ending. Despite that, I enjoyed the book immensely and I am looking forward to reading Book 2, Chosen. 

Congratulations to Mark E. Cooper (@mark_e_cooper) on such a great book!