I’m excited to welcome fellow Story Empire Author and friend, Diana, here today to celebrate her latest release, “The Necromancer’s Daughter.” Here is my review: LINK
Today I thought I’d share a snippet from Chapter 2 when Barus makes a heartbreaking discovery:
Barus shuffled along a path bordering the rift until something blue caught his eye. Planting his staff, he stepped nearer for a better look. A piece of cloth had snagged on a root. On his hands and knees, he crawled closer, grimacing at the added discomfort of his wardrobe of sticks. He stretched out an arm and caught the cloth between two fingers. What he discovered was no patch of torn fabric, but a long silk shawl littered with pine needles.
Olma’s blue shawl, the one he’d given her as a gift.
He clasped the damp cloth against his chest and sat back on his heels. “Olma?” Shifting again to his hands and knees, he crept nearer to the edge. His heart hammered against his ribs, and his mouth went dry. “Olma, where are you? Can you hear me?”
He lowered himself to his elbows and inched forward until he peered over the lip. Ferns and rocks lined the steep bank except where tumbled dirt exposed a gnarled lattice of roots twisted like brown snakes. Ten feet below him, the brook dribbled along the streambed. Brown leaves twirled in an eddy and collected at one end of a frog-sized pool.
He’d seen enough of death to know the truth of what his eyes revealed.
Blurb
A healer and dabbler in the dark arts of life and death, Barus is as gnarled as an ancient tree. Forgotten in the chaos of the dying queen’s chamber, he spirits away her stillborn infant, and in a hovel at the meadow’s edge, he breathes life into the wisp of a child. He names her Aster for the lea’s white flowers. Raised as his daughter, she learns to heal death.
Then the day arrives when the widowed king, his own life nearing its end, defies the Red Order’s warning. He summons the necromancer’s daughter, his only heir, and for his boldness, he falls to an assassin’s blade.
While Barus hides from the Order’s soldiers, Aster leads their masters beyond the wall into the Forest of Silvern Cats, a land of dragons and barbarian tribes. She seeks her mother’s people, the powerful rulers of Blackrock, uncertain whether she will find sanctuary or face a gallows’ noose.
Unprepared for a world rife with danger, a world divided by those who practice magic and those who hunt them, she must choose whether to trust the one man offering her aid, the one man most likely to betray her—her enemy’s son.
A healer with the talent to unravel death, a child reborn, a father lusting for vengeance, and a son torn between justice, faith, and love. Caught in a chase spanning kingdoms, each must decide the nature of good and evil, the lengths they will go to survive, and what they are willing to lose.
AMAZON PURCHASE LINKS
Author Bio
A long-time reader, best-selling author D. Wallace Peach started writing later in life when years of working in business surrendered to a full-time indulgence in the imaginative world of books. She was instantly hooked.
In addition to fantasy books, Peach’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry. She’s an avid supporter of the arts in her local community, organizing and publishing annual anthologies of Oregon prose, poetry, and photography.
Peach lives in a log cabin amongst the tall evergreens and emerald moss of Oregon’s rainforest with her husband, two owls, a horde of bats, and the occasional family of coyotes.
Links
Amazon Author’s Page: https://www.amazon.com/D.-Wallace-Peach/e/B00CLKLXP8
Website/Blog: http://mythsofthemirror.com
Website/Books: http://dwallacepeachbooks.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dwallacepeach
Thanks, Denise! For another great review on Diana’s new book. I love the way how detailled the mystery shows up, and captures the mind. Best wishes, Michael
Thrilled to share Diana’s latest here, Michael 🙂 It really does capture the mind!
Thank you, Michael, for stopping by my talented friend’s blog and taking the time to read the snippet and review. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Denise is wonderful and I’m grateful to be spending the day with her. Have a lovely day, my friend.
Great excerpt from a fantastic fantasy read! I loved this book! Wishing Diana all the best 💕🙂
Thanks for sharing, Denise 💕🙂
I’m with you, Harmony. A fantastic read. I was happy to share it!
Thanks for taking the time to stop by Denise’s today, Harmony. I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the story and appreciate your kindness. Hugs. <3
Another great excerpt from Diana’s book. Thanks for hosting today, Denise.
Thanks for the visit, Joan. I’m delighted to be spending the day with Denise, and I loved her review! Have a beautiful day. <3
I agree Joan, it is another great excerpt. I am very happy to be sharing Diana’s wonderful book here.
Congratulations, Diana! Thank you, Denise, for showcasing Necromancer’s Daughter. I’m enjoying the book very much. 🎉❤️🎉
That’s wonderful to hear, Gwen. I’m so glad that you’re enjoying the read! Denise’s review brought a huge smile to my face, and I’m delighted that she shared it. Thanks for stopping by! <3 <3
I’m thrilled to be able to spread the word for Diana’s wonderful new book, Gwen 🙂 Happy reading!
Depiction of the setting drew me right in. Hope the tour is going well.
Thanks, Craig. I’m glad the scene caught your attention. It’s only day 3 and the tour is going wonderfully. I love this community. 🙂 Happy Writing!
Diana can sure paint a vivid setting, Craig, which makes for a great read.
This was a gorgeous review for Diana’s beautiful book Denise. I’m looking so forward to digging into this book soon. (P.S. I’m still not getting notifications for your blog, I came here via Diana’s blog) <3 x
Thanks for stopping by, Debby, and wasn’t Denise’s review great? She was fast too. The first one up, as I recall. That’s always a thrilling moment and I’m grateful. Have a lovely day, my friend. Hugs. <3
It was Diana. But not surprised that so many were patiently awaiting the arrival of your book. I am looking forward to reading soon. All these promos are igniting the buzz beautifully. <3 xx
Thanks, Debby. I’m sure you will enjoy this story. Sorry you still aren’t getting the notications! I have a couple I never get too and only see them on Twitter. Glad you saw this on Diana’s blog. Hugs xo
Thanks Denise, no doubts I will. Hugs xxx
Thanks so much for hosting my tour, Denise. I’m so delighted to be here with you, my cup of coffee in hand, ready to spend the day. It feels like autumn this morning. Thanks for sharing a snippet from the book and, of course, for your wonderful review. I’m delighted that you enjoyed the read. Have a beautiful, creative day. <3 <3 <3
I’m so happy to have you visit today, Diana to share your wonderful book. I’m joining you with my cup of tea 🙂 I can’t wait to feel the chill of autumn here, still feeling that sting of summer with some smoke mixed in. Thank you, I hope your tour is successful and you have a beautiful and creative day too. Xo
We’ve avoided smoke this summer, Denise. I guess the wind has been on our side, plus being so far west. I hope today gives you a bit of a break on the heat. Thanks again for hosting and for the wonderful review. I’m so grateful. <3 <3 <3
I’m glad you have avoided the smoke this year. It was much worse last year, and we did pretty good until now. Maybe the smoke will bring down the temperature a bit. Fingers crossed. Glad to have you here and loved this story. xo
<3
This is a fabulous book. I hope the tour brings more readers to it. Thanks for hosting Diana, Denise.
It really was a fabulous read, Staci, I agree. So happy to share it!
Thanks, Staci. I’m delighted to be hanging with Denise today. She wrote a wonderful review, just like you. Thanks so much for reading the book and for your wonderful encouragement. Have a great day!
Loved the excerpt and loved the book. Diana has a real winner on her hands with this one. It’s great to see her new novel in the spotlight today. I highly recommend it.
Congrats to Diana and thanks for hosting, Denise!
I agree, Mae. I think it might be her best to date. Very happy to share it here today 🙂
Thanks so much for stopping by, Mae, and for your review too. Both of you write your thoughts beautifully, and I’m grateful. I never really know how a book will come across until it’s out there, so I couldn’t be more pleased with your kind comments. Have an awesome day.
That snippet reminds me of how well Diana weaves emotion into her story. Everything from rugged action to very touching scenes can be found throughout the book. Loved it!
Yes, Diana sure has a way with weaving emotions and action into her story that makes for a hard to put down story!
Without that emotion, we wouldn’t care about the characters and where’s the fun of reading about people you don’t care about? Diana does a super job of incorporating all the essentials.
Thanks so much, Anneli. You’re kind to stop by and comment. I work hard to weave emotion into stories. Ultimately that’s what attracts me as a reader. Have a lovely day, my friend. <3
Another great Tour Stop, Denise and Diana! Super post for a super book! I’m at the halfway point, and have been loving this one SOOOO much! Diana, the story is a real grabber, and your writing is flawless! Once again, sending you best wishes for HUGE success. You’ve earned it.
Thanks for hosting, Denise! 😀 <3
Oooh, things are going to go downhill from there, Marcia. Lol. I’m glad you’re enjoying the story. You always leave me grinning with your lovely comments. Happy Reading!
I’m braced for rocky roads ahead, Diana, and no matter what happens, I know that I’ll be hanging onto your every word. Glad to make you grin, too! 😁❤️
<3
A good way to put it Marcia, a real grabber. It sure is. Enjoy the rest of your reading. Always happy to host. Xo
Thank you for featuring Diana, Denise. Congratulations to Diana on her new release.
Thanks, John. You’re kind to stop by, and I appreciate the support. 😀
😁
It was my pleasure to have Diana here today 🙂
Denise, this was such a sad and touching part of The Necromancer’s Daughter. That blue shawl… it really touched my heart. Barus knew she was dead, but finding the shawl made it so real. 💜 Bravo to Diana!
When I wrote that scene, I could feel Barus’s fear and grief. It still makes me teary to think about it. Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Colleen. I’m touched. <3 <3
I cried at this scene, Diana. I blubbered through a few other scenes too. It was the same with the Myths of the Mirror.
Awww. You have a soft heart, Colleen. I love it that you were moved. <3 <3 <3
That’s usually how I can tell the book is good. If it evokes emotions, I’m smitten. LOL!
Me too. I love books that make me cry. Lol.
LOL! It’s that connection that’s so important.
When he found it I knew, Colleen. I was so sad for him. It was a heartbreaking moment.
I just told Diana that I cried. You could feel his pain and loss. ❤️🩹
This was such a heartbreaking scene, Diana. I thought poor Barus would give up. He had such huge struggles. This is a fantastic book and I highly recommend it!! Congrats to you, Diana on another winner. Thank you, Denise, for hosting!
I think for him, that was one of the lowest points. Even “running” for his life wasn’t quite so sad. Fearful, yes, but not quite so filled with despair. Thanks for stopping by at Denise’s, Jan. Huge hugs!
It really made me feel for Barus in his loss., Jan. Such a heavy loss for him sets up for what he does. Happy to share this one!
Diana handles emotions in a superb manner in this book and this excerpt exhibits it fabulously! Thanks for sharing Denise. Wishing you great success Diana.
Thanks for stopping by Denise’s post and for the lovely comment, Balroop. That makes me very happy to know that the scene was moving. Have a wonderful day, my friend. <3
Yes she did, Balroop. I was hooked immediately and emtionally invested.
This is such an exceptional story. I want to read more about these characters, but not sure at all where a sequel would go. Sigh.
Ha ha ha. No sequel, Jacqui. I’m kind of enjoying writing stand-alones right now, and the next one will probably be the same. I’ve thought about another trilogy, but the stories just aren’t there (or maybe the energy is lacking). Speaking of trilogies, your book is next up on my kindle and I can’t wait. 🙂 🙂
The story is complete. Any drama would almost feel manufactured, so I’m content/satisfied with this as a stand-alone. Really good choice.
😀
It certainly is, Jacqui.it was hard to close the book on these characters but glad for the ending.
HI Denise, this is a lovely post and a super extract. Thanks for hosting Diana. Admittedly, I nearly had a heart attack because I thought I’d set my post up for the wrong date as it’s only early September and mine is for next months. I rushed to quickly check I hadn’t gotten it all wrong.
Thanks, Robbie 🙂 A great read. I’ve done that before confusing months since they all seem to fall on top of each other.
Oh no, Robbie. No heart attacks allowed over blog posts I’m sending out little reminders, so no one needs to worry, and if something doesn’t happen, I won’t lose a wink of sleep over it. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Denise is a wonderful host and it’s been a blast visiting with her followers. Have a lovely, peaceful day. Hugs.
I’m reading The Necromancer’s Daughter right now. So far it’s sweet and dangerous and wonderful!
That’s exciting to hear, Priscilla. Your comment made me smile. (Doin’ a little dance too.) Thanks so much for taking the time to read the story. Can’t wait to hear what you think of it when you hit the end. Enjoy. 😀
That sums it up pretty well, Priscilla. Happy reading!
Sharing to help spread the word!
Thanks for helping to spread the word, Liz. I appreciate it. Have a great evening. <3
My pleasure, Diana. I hope you have a great evening as well. 🙂
Thank you, Liz 🙂
You’re welcome, Denise!
This scene broke my heart, but I loved that the shawl is passed down to Aster. About 70% through the book and so many things are happening! Thanks for hosting, Denise!
Thanks, Teri. A beta reader suggested that the shawl be handed down to Aster, and I loved the idea (duh). Yay for beta readers. I’m excited by your count down. Lol. Things should really be heating up now. Thanks for taking the time to stop by and Denise’s and comment. <3
It was hard to go through his pain at that loss, but the shawl was so symbolic after that. Enjoy the rest of your reading, Teri!
It’s fascinating how we all read the same book, yet we all find different things in it. I think it was ‘Shrek’ who talked about onions and layers. The Necromancer’s Daughter definitely has the layers. But no smell! lol
LOL. Hopefully not a lot of smell, though these characters go a long, long time without bathing. Lol. It’s fun for me, of course, to hear what parts struck different readers. Thanks for the visit here at Denise’s and for the great comment. Hugs
Definitely a lot of layers to this story and I agree, no smell.
What a lovely review, Denise! I enjoyed this post and the excerpt. I love Diana’s fantasy and I know that this one will be my new favorite and am looking forward to reading it. Thank you so much for hosting, Denise.
Thanks for visit, Miriam. I loved Denise’s review. What a treat that was. And I’m honored that you stopped by after hearing about your long day of sitting in traffic. Take your time getting to the book, for sure. You have a lot going on! Have a lovely day, my friend.
Thanks, Miriam 🙂 I know you will love this one.
A compelling read of such fully realized characters and sparkling descriptions. Thank you for the review!
Thanks so much for the kind comment, Steven. I’m honored that you think so. That makes my heart go pitter patter. Lol. I’m so glad you stopped by Denise’s for a visit. Have a wonderful afternoon and Happy Writing!
All the best to you, DIana. 🙂
It really was a fantastic read and made it easy to write a review 🙂
That makes all the difference, doesn’t it? 🙂
I’ve been reading some great reviews about this one . . . no surprise considering the author. 🙂 Congratulations, Diana. Thank you for sharing, Denise.
Thanks, Mark. The reviews have been so heartwarming. I couldn’t be happier. Thanks for dropping by Denise’s. Much appreciated. Have a great day and Happy Writing!
Fantastic read, Mark. One of her best.
Just wanted to send a quick note thanking you again for hosting me, Denise, and for the lovely review. I had a wonderful time visiting with your followers. 🙂
You are welcome anytime 🙂 I hope it gets all readers it deseves xo
Thanks for providing an excerpt, Denise! The prose is as sharp as the premise!
It’s a good one, Sean:)
Lovely to see you here at Denise’s blog this morning, Sean. A bit of a teaser to entice readers. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the prose. I just love everything about language; it’s like playing with magic. Have a great Friday and Happy Reading.
Congratulations to Diana on this new release.
Thanks, Beem 🙂 Its a wonderful read.
Thanks, Beem. I’m delighted with the reception the book is getting, and I’ve loved my time with Denise. 🙂 Happy Friday!
Congratulations to Diana! Great except! I received my book in the mail this week. I’m excited to read it. Thanks for hosting, Denise.
I know you are going to love it, Vashti 🙂 xo
Thank you so much for picking up the book, Vashti. Your generosity warms my heart. <3 <3 I hope you're doing well and wish you hours of entertaining reading. Huge Hugs.
Hi Denise, thanks for featuring Diana and for your lovely review. What a great extract too. I’ve only just begun to read the book, but I’m truly enjoying it. Congrats again to Diana!
I’m happy to have Diana here to share her latest with us. Enjoy your reading, Lauren 🙂
Thanks for starting my day with a grin, Lauren. I don’t even have my coffee yet, and I’m smiling. Denise is a wonderful host and I loved her review. I hope you enjoy the read right up until the end. Have a wonderful weekend. <3
❤️❤️
I’m deep into this story and love it! The big draw for me is the dragons 🙂 and a certain budding romance (I hope!)
Thanks so much for stopping by Denise’s, Jacquie, and for the wonderful comment. I’m delighted that you’re enjoying the book, the dragons, and the touch of romance too – you’ve worn off on me. Lol. Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Reading! <3
I can never pass up dragons or budding romances:)
Good luck with the new book, Diana. Your productivity is admirable and fabulous.
Thanks for stopping by the tour, Neil. That was kind of you. I’ve had some busy days with my hosts, and I’m delighted with the reviews so far. Denise did a beautiful job with hers. 😀 Happy Weekend, my friend.
Yes, her story is amazing 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
Great excerpt! Can’t wait to read this one.
scoxox
Thanks, Sandra. I threw a few teasers into the tour posts, here and there. Not too many. The tour has been loads of fun so far, and I’ve loved hanging out at Denise’s blog. Happy Saturday and Happy Reading, my friend. <3
I know you will enjoy it, Sandra xo
I just finished reading that scene last night, and I can hardly wait for bedtime so I can start the ‘real’ story of what happens next!
The real story shall be revealed, Sheri. 🙂 Thanks for another wonderful comment. I hope you don’t lose too much sleep. Lol. <3 <3
So great to read your wonderful review Denise. Diana is rocking it with her fantasy story that is very captivating!! ❤️
Thank you, Cindy 🙂 She definitely is!
Thanks so much for stopping by Denise’s, Cindy. Sorry I’m so late to reply! Eek. Denise’s review made my day and I’m glad you enjoyed it. Have a wonderful weekend, my friend!
Never too late! It was my pleasure always and the build up of your book is taking flight!
She did a great job❣️
🙂