Prophecy's Heir review

Prophecy’s Heirs, the first book in the Arualian Archives series by Emily G. Watson, introduces us to Crown Prince Walter, Princess Airdella, and Princess Amy. Due to turmoil in their country, they are sent to stay with retired knight, Sir Dorrian. Away from a life of luxury and privilege, the teens and younger sister, Amy, begin learning to do things for themselves, including skills used for knights. This leads to a series of adventures and a quest to protect their kingdom from an evil enemy and restore their father’s health.

Watching the kids grow as a tighter family unit as they learn more skills and protect one another is an excellent lesson for the age group intended for this series. As they lean more on one another, they also learn to differentiate between friends and foes along the way. When things fall apart, they each learn the ability to reason as they search for solutions. I also liked the addition of Aaron to the group of youngsters. He is also on a quest and has additional skills to round out the group.

For me, the book had times that I couldn’t put it down, but also chapters where I would lose interest. I am not the target audience, so tweens and teens who love fantasy and exploring new worlds should love the series. It would also be great for homeschoolers or families who enjoy reading books together.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Prophecy’s Heirs from the author. Opinions are my own.

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The Blobs - Volume 2 - Attack of the Glitchies

The Blobs - Volume 2 - Attack of the Glitches

The Blobs are back—bigger, braver, and in more danger than ever. Cadetski and his crew of misfit Blobs finally make it to their new home, Planet Splotch, only to realize they’ve accidentally stolen the most powerful artifacts in the galaxy: the Doomsicles.

Now, they’re on the radar of every villain in the galaxy, especially King Neptune: a tyrant with plans for domination who wants the doomsicles back ... and isn’t asking nicely. With their new world on the brink of invasion, Cadetski and the gang must dive into the planet’s deepest secrets, face impossible odds, and discover that real courage isn’t about size or strength, it’s about sacrifice. And when one Blob is believed to be a galactic “Chosen One,” things go from bad... to bonkers.

The Blobs: Volume Two releases April 7th everywhere books are sold - order your copy today! BUY LINK

MY REVIEW: Due to a computer glitch, the Blobs in Escape Pod #526 landed on a planet whose inhabitants are called "Glitchies." However their escape to their new home planet, Planet Splotch, does not free them from the Glitchies who are in hot pursuit to get back the Doomsickles that Wilby had taken. Planet Splotch and the Blobs who have settled there are all in danger from King Neptune, Lord Zord, and the evil Glitchies.

Volume 2 has the same high level of adventure, humor, excitement, and energy as Vol 1. Clean and wholesome, The Blobs are great entertainment for 3rd graders and up. Loyal friendships are developed and some tough decisions have to made when a Blob is faced with temptation or putting personal wants over the needs of the group. 

Fans of "Diary of a Wimpy Kid," "Dog Man," and "Captain Underpants" will enjoy these books! 

LINKS:

BUY the Blobs, Volume 2

BUY The Blobs, Volume 1

 

itsjustinstuart on IG

My Review of Volume 1

GIVEAWAY: $10 Amazon gift card

Qualifications: Winners must be US residents who have not won via another blogger’s giveaway for this campaign.

Due Date: Please submit your full name and email address by 4/13/26.

Disclosure: Many thanks to David C Cook for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Jean Thomason interviews Justin Stuart about the release of his new Volume in his fun series, THE BLOBS.

 

The Blobs - Volume 1 - Crash Landing

 

The Blobs Volume 1: Crash Land!

A giant meteor was headed straight to the home planet of the Blobs. The story begins as the Blobs continue to move in groups to settle in their new planet. Suddenly, weeks before expected the Warning Announces an immediate Evacuation! 

There is a malfunction with Escape Pod #526, leaving the 5 passengers Cadetski, Chubs, Zilma, Goosebob, and Wilby to CRASH LAND on a planet occupied by the evil Glitchies! The adventure kicks into overdrive as the 5 Blobs try to break free and get to their new planet with the rest of the Blobites.

Volume 1 launches readers into a universe where disaster and discovery collide. Written by Justin Stuart, and illustrated by Rick Douglas, this series masterfully weaves heart-pounding action with genuine laughs, creating a story that resonates with both established JStu fans and new readers. As our heroes navigate their way through an unknown world, they discover that sometimes the biggest adventures reveal the most important truths about friendship, courage, and finding your place in the universe.

MY REVIEW: If you are looking for a fun book filled with excitement, danger, quirky characters, loyalty, the meaning of friendship, and wholesome entertainment for a child 8 years old and up, look no further than "The Blobs." It's not always easy to find suitable material for kids to read, and frankly, it's vital to have a book that will hold a child's attention, and perhaps inspire their imagination and creativity. Some of the situations these five Blobs got themselves into also demonstrated character-building, thinking outside of the box, and developing friendships with others. There is enough danger to build suspense, plus comical moments that made me laugh. Be sure to check this out!

LINKS:

BUY The Blobs, Volume 1

 

itsjustinstuart on IG

Many thanks to David C Cook for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Bash and the Chocolate Milk Cows

Bash is up to his usual tricks and with his overactive imagination, life is anything but boring. But cousin Beamer likes boring. This time he is back on the farm for Spring Break and Bash's favorite holiday---April Fool's Day! What could possibly go wrong in his latest scheme? Bash and the Chocolate Milk Cows is his most creative and complicated plan to surprise his parents yet. Toss in a polliwog observatory, a robber with a sweet tooth, and a goat of many colors...and get prepared for a wild week!

Storyteller Burton Cole, with illustrator Buddy Lewis, have a book that is sure to bring joy to 8-12 year old boys (and girls) and possibly strike fear into the heart of parents of mischievous kids. They may pick up a few ideas, and hopefully be discouraged about trying some of the crazier ones, but there is also a lesson to be learned. This time Beamer wants to learn more about baptism. This combination of fun-filled adventures, with a few important tenets of Christianity woven in at an age appropriate level, makes for a series that I definitely recommend for children. While they are more into practical jokes than I have ever been, it did bring to mind a few childhood adventures of my own. I love the encouragement to use your imagination and get outside and play!

I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself from Shelton Interactive in exchange for an honest review.

When Calls the Heart - Season 2

The series is inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book series about the Canadian West. “When Calls the Heart” tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young teacher accustomed to her high society life, who receives her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley, a small coalmining town where life is simple, but often fraught with challenges. Lori Loughlin plays Abigail Stanton, a wife and mother whose husband, the foreman of the mine, along with a dozen other miners, has just been killed in an explosion. The newly widowed women find their faith is tested when they must go to work in the mines to keep a roof over their heads. Elizabeth charms most everyone in Coal Valley, except Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) who believes Thatcher’s wealthy father has doomed the lawman’s career by insisting he be assigned in town to protect the shipping magnate’s daughter. Living in a turn of the century coal town, Elizabeth will have to learn the ways of the frontier if she wishes to thrive in the rural west on her own.

We already know that Elizabeth has know charmed Jack and that they have acknowledged they have feelings for one another. There also looks like a possible romance for Abigail. And will Jack's former flame cause dissent between Elizabeth and Jack? Season 2 opens with several changes in the air...


Episode 1 – April 25, 2015 – “Trials of the Heart” Part 1 – Coal Valley’s trial gets underway in the town with a new Judge presiding over it. Elizabeth gets unsettling news from Hamilton regarding her family, and must return. Abigail’s case is presided over by an unlikely prosecutor. Elizabeth’s family meets, Jack. 43min.


Episode 2 – April 25, 2015 – “Trials of the Heart” Part 2 – The trial’s verdict is rendered by the Judge, which effects the whole town. Elizabeth readjusts to family life in Hamilton. Abigail is reunited with a family member. Jack has to reevaluate his importance in Elizabeth’s life. A new man comes to town with a prospect that can change the townspeople’s entire future. 43min.

I confess that I was privileged to preview the April 25th episodes of "When Calls the Heart" and I can guarantee that fans will not be disappointed. The drama, romance, comedy, suspense, and every other element essential to mesmerizing television is still present. I can't give away anything that happens, but I advise you to tune in. You don't want to miss a moment!

Also keep up with news and other fans. You can search social media sites using #Hearties
Follow @WCTH_TC on Twitter
Like When Calls the Heart on Facebook
Join the Hearties FB Fan Page Group

GREAT NEWS!! For one blessed winner, I have a Season 1 boxed set of DVDs, courtesy of Word Films. Many thanks to Word and to FlyBy Promotions for giving me the opportunity to preview the 1st 2 episodes of "When Calls the Heart" and for the boxed set to give away. This is a perfect gift for either a fan of the series or for someone new who wants to catch up. Enter by leaving a comment no this blog post no later than 10pm (CDT) Thursday, April 30, 2015.

Rasmus and the Vagabond

After running away from an orphanage, nine-year-old Rasmus finds the world a cold and unfriendly place until he befriends an extraordinary tramp called Paradise Oscar. Together they meet more adventure than they ever imagined, solve a mystery, and catch the culprits. Rasmus dreams of finding a family and a home someday. But when he does, will he be able to part with his new friend and life on the road? 

My Review: How did I miss this one when I was growing up? I remember loving Astrid Lindgren's Pippi Longstocking books, but can't remember if I read others by her. So, it was due to those memories that I agreed to review Rasmus and the Vagabond. No doubt this is a piece of classic children's literature and I am so happy I can now say I read it.

The characters are intriguing and the story captured me immediately. There are elements of suspense, comedy, hope, heartbreak, and adventure to keep readers of any age enthralled and to ignite the imagination. There are also great character traits displayed, along with the innocent mischief any child is apt to get into. This was a satisfying read from beginning to end and one that needs to stay in print for future generations.

I was provided with a free copy from Handlebar Marketing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.