Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

For Ebony Charmed, starting middle school at Motley Junior High: School for the Psychically and Celestially Gifted was supposed to be the beginning of wonderful things. In Motley Education, Book One of The URD Saga by S.A. Larsen, it couldn’t be more different! Ebony still messes up with her assignments and doesn’t think she has the powers or abilities that would make her fit in. At home, things are just as bad since her dad moved out because of constant arguments with her mom. At least Ebony has her best friend and GTG, Fleishman and his pet legless lizard, Nigel, not to mention the 3 Ms who are ghosts in the boneyard Ebony has talked to since she was a little girl. Together, Ebony and Fleishman work on a class project that turns into a major adventure into other levels of the human and celestial worlds where evil lurks and a power struggle threatens to ruin everything. Encountering fire and ice giants, a huge wolf and ravens with mechanical attachments, Ebony and Fleishman disappear through portals into different dimensions, fortunately finding friends along the way. Will Ebony find her missing Deadly Creatures and Relics project, which seems to be of interest to a number of creatures, and how will she make everything right again when she thinks she can’t do anything?

Scary fun and frightening adventures are only part of what you will find in Motley Education. S.A. Larsen has created a wonderful world full of dynamic characters, ever increasing intrigue, and imaginative worlds where amazing things happen. Motley Education is the perfect middle grade fantasy book to capture your attention and engage your imagination as you experience Norse mythology with Ebony and Fleishman, aided by the computer gaming skills of Ebony’s brother, Ethan. There is plenty that middle schoolers can relate to within the pages and S.A. Larsen treats this variety of themes with straightforward insight and gentle interpretation. Enjoy Book One of the URD Saga, not only because it is a great story, but because it promises to be the beginning of an even more exciting journey. Terrific story with lots to compliment! Quite engaging, which is perfect for the targeted age group, (and older readers as well!). I can't wait to see what comes next.

Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite

The Spirit of Steel is Book Two of The Morus Chronicles, a children’s fantasy by J.R. Roper. Thirteen-year-old Ethan Morus, who possesses treasure hunting instincts, is closely watched by sorcerers from the Light and Dark. They need Ethan’s talents to locate another legendary ancient treasure containing special powers. The Light are protectors and doers of good while the Dark is ruled by malicious Lord Dehdric. Ethan’s friend and mentor from the Light, Eldorian, warns him to be cautious, especially in the company of girls. He is concerned that the Dark has gained more followers and might lure Ethan to join them as unknown persons watch from the woods. Ethan ignores his advice and is suddenly thrust into deadly danger, both on land and under water, while realizing that those closest to him are really his enemies.

If you missed the opportunity to read Book One from The Morus Chronicles, do your best to grab a copy and catch up on Ethan’s exciting adventure, which continues in The Spirit of Steel. I thought Chapter One had a captivating beginning with a character named Mel, who made me curious to know what she was up to. The story is very well developed with characters that are charismatic and unforgettable, especially those who were also portrayed in Book One. Ethan is a bit stubborn, but daring, while his sister, Destry, is spunky and mischievous. J.R. Roper writes an enchanting fantasy teens will enjoy. The Spirit of Steel, Book Two from The Morus Chronicles is recommended.

Reviewed by Courtney Fongheiser for Readers' Favorite

“His father had given the talisman to him with a promise: It will guide you and give you strength when you need it most.” Black Lightning by KS Jones is about a young boy named Samuel who has gone through a lot in life, but continues to fight for the life he wants. As an adult, I don’t often read about younger protagonists, so getting to know ten-year-old Samuel was refreshing. Kids are so honest, and most are not easily discouraged. I have younger siblings who have also been through a lot, like Samuel. I was able to understand his character on a more personal level because of that. The supporting characters were what Samuel needed. He needed reliable people by his side, but he also needed to be challenged so he could grow. I admire Jones’ skill in character development.

Jones’ writing style is well balanced. Black Lightning was a quick read for me because of how well it was written. Jones’ opening scene for this story was very well done. I knew right away how I was supposed to feel about certain characters. The scenes flowed together nicely, and that kept me hooked. Jones gave the right amount of attention to every aspect of the story. Character development, setting, dialogue between the characters, action scenes, and a unique charm set this story apart. I admire the author's creativity. This story was so much fun and refreshing to read. This is perfect for younger audiences who love adventure!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Desert Dwellers Born By Fire is a young adult science fiction novel by author Sarah Bergstrom, and the first book in The Paintbrush Saga. The desert dwellers of the title are a young trio - Khalid, Lahcen and Qeriya - siblings cut off from the world by their remote upbringing in a desert community. They may have remained in obscurity, if not for the tragic onset of a mysterious and damaging illness which threatens the lives of their parents. Then it becomes time for the secrets of the trio’s hidden powers to come to light, as they embark on a quest into a world totally unlike their own, seeking the cure that will return their lives to normality. What they learn along the way raises fascinating questions about their own existence.

I have read many young adult science fiction novels which base their themes and atmospheres on elements and environments, and Desert Dwellers Born By Fire is truly unique in its approach to this technique. The barren heat of the desert is prevalent from the start in the novel’s atmospheric writing, and as the scenes shift whilst the young heroes go on questing, a rich and vivid world is created. Khalid, Lahcen and Qeriya are genuinely interesting protagonists with distinct voices and personalities, active participants in their own destinies who inspire readers to keep turning pages and see what they discover. Sarah Bergstrom unveils incredible powers, well crafted creatures and other races with effortless style, weaving a plot full of mysteries that are not quite solved by the end. Roll on book two.

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Roy Huff’s Everville: The Fall of Brackenbone is the fourth book in the Everville series. Two worlds are forever connected; Everville, the magical land of vapor-filled Them, giants, Ubaloos, shape-changing Alarian dragons, Mountain Dwellers, and the natural realm of Earth. Mallory was defeated in the last battle and restoration has begun on both Earth and Everville. Those captured and sent away have returned. However, Owen Sage’s last quest, although heroic, changed history, time as been altered. All must adapt to the new normal. Years have passed in Everville, but on Earth only a matter of weeks. Owen and his friends, Dante and Anika, are eager to resume classes at Easton Falls University. Although evil has been vanquished, there still remains unrest in both worlds. Something sinister is stirring. There is an imbalance, something strange is happening to the element. The fate of the entire world is at stake. The Keeper sends Owen once again on a quest for truth. Owen must find the cause for the reduction in the amount and power of the element. The Fourth Pillar of Truth holds the answer; he must find it before it is too late.

Everville: The Fall of Brackenbone gives a fantastical explanation of the anthropology and evolution of mankind. Roy Huff uses unusual and mystical language to enhance the level of his magical land. His writing style has an artistic flow of words, creating exquisite and poetic imagery. Opening wide the door of imagination, Huff writes delightful and whimsical couplets: “musings and plottings,” “schemings and waitings,” “cunnings and trinkets,” “thinkings without blinkings.” Furthermore, comments such as, “We are between here and there, yesterday and tomorrow, and yet, and yet,” remind the reader that we are not in Kansas anymore. Influences of Tolkien and CS Lewis subtly shadow Huff’s writing style. Moral truths, ancient and sage wisdom are in abundance. Far from being hum-drum or predictable, the setting and action shift in a blink of an eye. Everville: The Fall of Brackenbone is young adult fiction at its best. Roy Huff exposes greed and the lust for power, and defeats them with a quest for truth, knowledge, understanding and wisdom.

Reviewed by Carla Trueheart for Readers' Favorite

The Bigfoot Paradox by Rebecca Coyte will change everything you know —or think you know — about Bigfoot. J.T. is shy and doesn’t have many friends at school, but he does have a fascination with Bigfoot. It’s no wonder. In the town of Onion Weed, Bigfoot is a big deal. With Bigfoot sightings, the once quiet town goes berserk, and noted Bigfoot hunter Billy Matrix makes his presence known in the town in a big way. Soon, J.T. has to deal with Billy Matrix and his associates, a bunch of Sasquatch enthusiasts with personalities almost as huge as Billy Matrix himself. The hunt for Bigfoot is on with crews of people, fancy equipment, and an insatiable desire to find Bigfoot in the woods of Onion Weed. But nobody sees the truth coming, and J.T. is surprised at what is revealed to him about Onion Weed and its connection to the Bigfoot myth.

I loved the story and, overall, The Bigfoot Paradox is a fun, imaginative read that looks into the heart of Bigfoot myths and legends. Author Rebecca Coyte doesn't just give us a typical Bigfoot story; she includes the current reality TV hype and the ridiculous personalities of people who publicly hunt for legendary creatures. Then she adds a bit of a twist that might explain what is really going on, and reveals that through J.T. as he travels with Billy Matrix and crew. J.T. is a great young character, but he is overshadowed at times by the adults in the Bigfoot hunt, especially at the end of the book. Still, he learns a secret, learns a lesson, and perhaps comes out of the adventure with a story to tell and more knowledge than he had before. The Bigfoot Paradox asks us: What is the true story behind Bigfoot?

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

IA: B.O.S.S. is a riveting science fiction novel by author John Darryl Winston, and continues the story of Naz where IA: Initiate left off. Our hero is a fostered orphan whose number one priority is Meri, his beloved little sister, but during the events of Initiate, Naz discovered that there was a lot more going on in the world around them than the simple visible dangers of gangs on the streets. His telepathic and telekinetic skills are growing with the aid of those closest, and leading Naz out into a full-on battle with his enemy, The Incubus Apostles. The fire for revenge is lit in Naz’s heart when his beloved friend Artie is lost.

Having read Initiate some months ago, I knew that I would be stepping back into the beautifully penned yet tragic world of the Exclave with John Darryl Winston’s impeccable writing. I was delighted to find that Naz is still a sensitive and unlikely hero, struggling with his own inner turmoil over his powers, but growing stronger and more confident as he hunts out gang leader Roffio Styles. When Naz is finally forced to begin using his powers, there’s a frightening amount of potential for total destruction, but the depth of how you get to know Naz and his personal struggles means the audience will always root for their teenage street hero. Once again, IA: B.O.S.S. achieves a slick progression of storytelling with deep psychological themes and an urban gang violence atmosphere. Fresh, current and absolutely superb.

Reviewed by Gisela Dixon for Readers' Favorite

The Gallery of Wonders (Magora Book 1) by Marc Remus is a fantasy novel that centers around 11-year-old Holly O’Flanigan. Holly lives with her foster family, the Smoralls, who are uncaring to the point of being abusive towards her. Her only true relationship is with her grandfather, Nikolas O’Flanigan, who has always inspired rumours around town because of his strange and eccentric ways. In reality, as we come to discover, magic is in the air. When a fire ravages the town, Holly is devastated by her grandfather’s death as she looks up to him and wants to be an artist like he was. But to her surprise, soon after, she discovers an unusual, “magical” canvas and paintbrush left to her by her grandfather, which leads to a whole new world. In this world, Holly, along with her friends, can bring anything to life by painting it. As Holly enters this new world, enrolls in an art school, and helps to solve a mystery about stolen paintings, she also learns to love herself and find herself in the process. In that sense, this is a beautiful coming-into-your-own story.

The Gallery of Wonders (Magora Book 1) by Marc Remus is a nicely written fantasy novel. Its theme of magic and creating life through art and painting is unique and appealing. I could almost imagine the vivid colors, brushstrokes, and paintings brought to life as I was reading this book. More importantly, this is a book about courage and about finding oneself through adversity. Holly’s character is well drawn and is universally appealing. The supporting cast of characters and plot make this an exciting and fun read. I would recommend this book for children and teenagers alike.

Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

WhipEye is the first book of the WhipEye Chronicles by Geoffrey Saign. On the one-year anniversary of her mother’s death, twelve-year-old Samantha makes her way to the Endless Pet Store in Minnesota to talk to her favorite parrot, Charlie. After receiving menacing looks from the store manager, Magnar, Samantha finds a way to sneak in to see the bird, but is shocked when Charlie starts having an intellectual conversation with her, demanding that she break him out of the pet store immediately, lest he die at Magnar’s hands. After Charlie’s release, both he and Samantha escape, with Magnar giving chase at a supernatural pace while threatening to kill her. Magnar is stopped by Rose, a newcomer in town, who possesses a magical staff called WhipEye. After being warned by Rose never to touch the alluring staff, Samantha runs home. On her arrival, Samantha and her eleven-year-old neighbor, Jake, become privy to an incredibly dark secret regarding Magnar, Methuselah creatures, and a secret, magical world where Rose, Charlie, and both children are forced to flee Magnar’s evil wrath. When tragedy strikes, ownership of the staff is transferred. Time is not on her side as Samantha, with the help of the WhipEye and her dedicated sidekick, Jake, needs to find a way to defeat Magnar, destroy the golden rings, and release the Methuselahs entombed within – a task far easier said than done, especially for a twelve-year-old. With luck, Samantha will survive long enough to celebrate her twelfth birthday before the day ends.

From the very start, Geoffrey Saign’s well-written adventure had me hooked on every word. With a vast cocktail of emotions spread throughout, WhipEye was well-balanced with humor, action, adventure, tragedy and drama, forcing the lead character to lower the walls she had built since her mother had died, while also learning to believe in herself again. A brief moment of Samantha’s father snapping out of his melancholia in order to protect his daughter was a refreshing surprise, especially after he had barely interacted with her for so very long. While the story was quite busy, each scene blended seamlessly into the next, creating the perfect recipe for any great children’s book. All of the characters were fully explained, enabling younger readers to keep up at all times. I very much enjoyed WhipEye, which is easily one of the most imaginative tales I have read in a very long time. I recommend it to all readers who enjoy the theme of good versus evil in a majestically magical battle which trumps any fantasy tale I have ever read.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Tommy Topper and the Pixie Princess by Joe Corso is the story of a young boy called Tommy Topper who is no ordinary boy. When he turns 14, his parents tell him that they are wizards. They had escaped from an evil emperor called Ling Cam. They come from the land of Kranta, but they had to leave that place to save their lives. He will soon come of age; this means that he will experience changes that (sometimes) cannot be explained. To become a wizard, he would have to be trained.

He needs to overthrow Ling Cam’s rule and bring back King Andrew to the throne. With the help of Verlan, a great wizard, he will have to attain the five magical objects that were stolen by Ling Cam. He will be joined by Princess Ryanna of Pixie Land to not only save Kranta, but Pixie Land as well. Only these five items can bring back the peace of their land. Once they are separated, there will be nothing but discord and conflict. Can he become the hero his people want him to be? Or will Tommy crumble under the pressure and fail?

There are very few children’s books that are truly appropriate for children. When writers use teenage heroes in their stories, the language and the content of the novel become adult. Tommy Topper and the Pixie Princess is not like that. It is purely satisfying. The story is engaging and actually teaches some very valuable lessons. I recommend it to any child who likes to read about a good adventure, some amazing magic, lots of action, and a hero worthy of being called a hero.