Book Review: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Book Review for: The Sword of Summer

(Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard)

Written by: Rick Riordan

Published by: Disney/Hyperion

ISNB: 978-148476035-2

4.5 Stars

I read: the hardback

An incredible escape to another world!

Riordan pens an enthralling new adventure involving the Gods of Asgard with “The Sword of Summer.” Our hero is Magnus Chase. After retrieving the sword of Summer from the Charles River, he’s promptly killed by Surt, the fire god. Thankfully, a Valkyrie named Sam, saves him and takes him to Valhalla where he becomes one of Odin’s soldiers known as the Einherjar.

Trouble is not far behind. Sam is expelled from the Valkyrie, and Magnus must re-find the Sword of Summer. Complicating matters is Fenris Wolf who is rumored to bring about Ragnarok in 9 days. Can Magnus and his friends, Sam, Blitz, and Hearth find the sword and save the 9 worlds from Ragnarok?

Riordan’s writing style is easy to read and engages the reader. His characters are likable and endearing. Magnus is brave in the face of danger, and loyal to his friends. There are plenty of villains who bring out the humanity of Magnus and his friends. The plot is fast paced, keeping young readers turning the pages.

The best character of the book is Sumarbrander – the Sword of Summer – who has a personality all his own.

Overall, “The Sword of Summer,” is a story with great characters, great action, and great appeal. The ending is satisfying and leaves the reader wanting to find out more about Magnus and his friends.  I recommend this book for 10 years and older.  A breathtaking read that will resonate long after the reader has finished.

99 cents young adult romance: Young Witchcraft #kindledeal #99cents

3RD PLACE: Young/New Adult Short Story, International Digital Awards 2015

BLURB:

Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

EXCERPT: 

Suzie bumped into Rachel's shoulder. Rachel nearly lost her balance, extended her leg, and regained her bearing. Thank the broomsticks Suzie's contact didn't start a bleeding episode.

"I'd be careful if I were you. Don't cross me."

"What you did was mean and you know it." Rachel squared her shoulders, despite the knots in her stomach.

Suzie narrowed her eyes.

"Is there a problem?" Joe approached, his arms crossed.

"You two losers deserve each other." Suzie rolled her eyes and walked off.

Rachel swallowed hard, pushing the hurt from Suzie's comment aside for now. Rachel glanced at Joe. "Anna's ankle is swollen. Can you help her out to her car?"

"Sure."

Rachel smiled her appreciation at Joe. He'd grown tall, over six feet and his green eyes sparkled like gems when the light caught them a certain way. His blond hair had darkened a bit to sandy blond, but he kept his hair in a nice neat cut. He often had a five o'clock shadow that she found incredibly attractive on him. Joe was lean and with thin muscles, and not an ounce of fat on him. He could tear up a refrigerator. Fruit, pizza, and celery were his favorite foods. He was as picky as a black cat about what he ate since he had a peanut allergy. Joe played on the football team as a tight end or a running back. His practice must have gotten over early tonight.

A part of her wanted to reach out for his hand like she did when they were kids, back when life wasn't so complicated, but something held her back. Hurt? Doubt? Lack of courage? She sighed. Her self-esteem had taken a big hit today, but she wanted to be a good friend to Anna so she brushed aside her anxiety. Now that Joe was here, Rachel could do anything. 

BUY LINKS:

Ibooks:https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/young-witchcraft/id1001406269?mt=11

AMAZON:http://a.co/3PnbpJo

BARNES & NOBLE:http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/young-witchcraft

GOODREADS:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25658237-young-witchcraft?ac=1&from_search=true

Snippet Sunday: 99 cent paranormal romance: Young Witchcraft #wewriwa

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet:  Joe is on the secret 

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

She raised her head and brushed the hair from her face, before she winked. "I think you're right. It's not as swollen as I thought it was."
"Thanks," he grinned his appreciation.
She smiled that wide encouraging smile he adored. Rachel made her magic stop the swelling in his ankle. He felt good as new. Joe promised to

keep her secret that she was a witch until the day he died and he meant it. She understood him better than anyone else. Rachel needed a speech therapist and he needed an occupational therapist.  

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft

Snippet Sunday: 99 cents: Young Witchcraft #wewriwa

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet: Rachel tries to help Joe.  

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

Rachel drew in a breath and her shoulders relaxed. "Let me make sure it's not swollen." She lowered her voice, now filled with concern.

Joe sat sideways on the bench and crossed his leg over his knee. Rachel's delicate touch sent warmth pulsing through his entire foot. She turned her head straight toward the ground and her long hair covered the sides of her face, but Joe knew she did this to hide the glow in her eyes when she used her magic. Joe liked her healing touch. It always drained the tension from his body. Often, the sensation lingered and he would feel normal for hours after. 

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft

Snippet Sunday: 99 cent paranormal romance: Young Witchcraft #wewriwa

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet: Rachel tries to help Joe.  

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

She pointed toward his foot, "Are you all right?"
"I can play with it."
Doug reached out toward her and she recoiled, giving him a strained look. He quickly held up his hands, "Sorry, I thought you might have another bottle for me."
"Don't touch me." Her voice was low, almost harsh. A sudden breeze blew past Joe. Though Rachel never said, he noticed that when Rachel grew upset, the wind tended to blow, its intensity a reflection of her mood.
Doug frowned and turned to watch the game.

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft

Snippet Sunday - 99 cent young adult romance: Young Witchcraft #snippetsunday #wewriwa

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet:  Rachel makes it to the bench.

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

Joe glanced up and grinned. "Hey, Rachel."

Rachel slid into the bleacher seat behind Joe and offered him a smile. "I brought you some water."

"Thanks." He snatched it from her and practically drank the whole thing, wishing he could have been a little gentler with his gesture. Rachel's long black hair flowed down her back. Her sea-blue eyes sparkled. He often noticed that when Rachel used her magic, her eyes glowed. She was really cute, but he didn't want to embarrass her by telling her that. Her smiles always gave him the encouragement he needed to tackle his problems.  

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft

Snippet Sunday: 99 cents romance: Young Witchcraft #wewriwa #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet:  

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

Rachel skipped down the stairs. She didn't quite understand it either, but Joe's friendship meant everything to her, wise or not. Rachel watched as Joe had his head down, staring at his ankle. Doug Kent, a fellow player on the bench, jabbed him with an elbow.
"I think Rachel's soft on you," Doug said. He tried to lower his voice, but Rachel still heard him. She stilled, curious what would happen next.
Joe looked at Doug and shrugged his shoulders.
"She's kinda' cute," Doug continued, "But she's not very outgoing." 

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft

Snippet Sunday: 99 cent romance: Young Witchcraft #wewriwa #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my young adult romance, Young Witchcraft. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:

About this snippet:  Rachel makes a choice

**3rd Place Winner in the 2015 International Digital Awards in Young Adult Fiction, Short Story**

ENJOY THIS SNIPPET:

She scrunched up her nose. She felt bad disregarding her father, but she would feel worse if she didn't go to Joe.
Gnawing at her lower lip, she stood.
Her father glanced at her. Rachel's mother peered over her father's shoulder.
"It's not wise," her father said.
"I have to." 
Her father picked up a water bottle and handed it to her. "Broomsticks and crystals, at least have a reason. And be alert. Don't let anyone see your eyes glow." 

YOUNG WITCHCRAFT: 

BLURB:  
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats.

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or have years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON:  https://amzn.com/B00YJW0YMO

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-witchcraft-stephanie-burkhart/1122051463?ean=2940151946490

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/546938
Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/young-witchcraft