In the Presence of Knowing (Secrets of Windy Springs, #1) by Valarie Savage Kinney

Blurb: Keisha is pregnant and on the run from an abusive ex-boyfriend. Hiding out at Windy Springs Renaissance Festival, she discovers a world of magic.
Stepping into new and unfamiliar territory, she finds herself among people different from any she’s met before. Though she feels she’ll never fit in, Keisha finds hope when she meets Rogan, who plays the troll. As friendship blossoms into romance, she soon discovers that Rogan, as well as others at Windy Springs, have abilities beyond the average individual – abilities that the child growing within her shares as well. When danger comes to Windy Springs, she’ll need the combined powers of Rogan and his friends to keep her and the baby safe.
In the Presence of Knowing is the first book in the Secrets of Windy Springs series. Grab your copy today and find out what mysteries await within the magical forest at Windy Springs.

4.5 stars

First of all, I am a HUGE fan of this cover! It’s so pretty and it directly relates to the entire story.  Second of all, HOW IS THIS THE FIRST BOOK I’M READING BY VALARIE KINNEY!!!

I’ve been FB friends with her for while and I own a book or two by her already. But for some reason I never got around to reading one…until now.  TBH, I am always a bit leary of reading authors after I have friend them because I don’t want to have to tell them I don’t like their book. Fortunately, that is not the case with this one.

I loved the subtlety of the magic in this story. It wasn’t overpowering but had just enough to keep me engaged.  The setting is amazing. I love Ren Faires! I have been to several and have an outfit and everything.  The atmosphere is always so unique and fun.

One of my favorite things about this book are all the non-conventional characters. Especially Rogan and Captain Dash.  Even Keisha is pretty non-conventional herself.  I totally fell for all of them and can’t wait to dive back into the next installment of this series!