Reviewed by Maryann Namayi for Readers' Favorite

Spiritual Warriors: The Rise of Night, The Rise of Light Volume 1 by Nakia L. Brown is a captivating novel that delves into the intriguing concept of spiritual warriors who must fight against powerful forces to save humanity. The story follows Benaiah, a young boy from Portland, Oregon, who struggles with bullying at school and finds comfort in the guidance of his late grandmother. In his dreams, Benaiah’s grandmother would guide him through life’s challenges and teach him how to overcome obstacles. Despite the constant harassment he faces, Benaiah finds strength in his grandmother’s words: “Keep getting up!” But what does this mean for him in the wake of her passing? Will he be able to continue without her guidance?

Spiritual Warriors is structured with short chapters and multiple narratives, making it engaging and easy to follow. Nakia L. Brown’s storytelling is powerful, emphasizing the importance of support systems during difficult times. The author effectively highlights the crucial role of friendship and security in cultivating courage and resilience. This story also touches on themes such as drug abuse and the development of meaningful relationships. Some narratives draw inspiration from biblical events and feature a savior figure reminiscent of the Messiah. Brown skillfully weaves various aspects of the story, all united by a common objective. This uplifting and encouraging read takes us on a journey filled with suspense and hidden truths. It is a must-read for anyone looking for a spiritual and inspiring story.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Sacred Vengeance is a work of fiction in the fantasy and action subgenres. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author Evangaline Pierce. The book follows Alle Vengega, a woman with a happy family and an idyllic life whose world falls apart after visiting a haunted bridge. Following the loss of her husband, Alle finds that her daughter Lani has fallen victim to a demon attack, and only the man claiming to be her guardian angel has the answers to save Lani from the fate that awaits her. But her mysterious angel has secrets of his own, and the path to saving Lani will not only require her to trust him but also for Alle to understand and master who she truly is.

The themes at play in this tale of a mother struggling to overcome grief and save her daughter are biblical in scale, and there's a very interesting discussion about Alle’s true nature and interference with the celestial balance. I found author Evangaline Pierce’s descriptive writing to be wonderfully vivid and well-practiced, with the perfect level of detail found to bring her vision of the world to life, but also to allow just the right gaps for the reader’s own imagination to complete it. Every place that Alle visited was one I could imagine perfectly, and every person she met came to life on the page, thanks to the author’s wonderful prose. Overall, Sacred Vengeance is a powerful story about love and the acts of devotion that it drives us to do, and I recommend it highly to all readers.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

An epic adventure that takes on a biblical theme with an allegorical twist, The Victor: A Tale of Love, Betrayal, and Sacrifice by Marlayne Giron is bound to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. The story opens with Baron Lucius of North Umberland waiting with unease and fury in the frigid weather as his men lose the element of surprise against their attack to overthrow the king. Lucius wants to possess the mightiest and most mysterious weapon that the king wields. A sword named Ephlal has an awesome capability to decimate an entire army with a mere point of its blade or render an enemy harmless with the spoken word. Lucius flees, leaving a trail of blood and mayhem, but he is determined to fight another day and claim what he believes is rightfully his.

One of the fascinating aspects of this story is Marlayne Giron’s sharp attention to detail. I couldn’t help but squirm as she describes how an enemy impales and eviscerates a knight with a dagger. It's like a cross between Narnia and Game of Thrones. The events in this story may appear fantastical as they hinge on a biblical scenario, but they have a human and earthly scale if we consider the conflict and story arc. The personalities of the battling knights are reminiscent of the angels and demons in the Apocrypha (books omitted from the Bible), yet the king’s relationship with his faithful knights is on the same level as King Arthur and those who sit with him at the Round Table. Lucius’s fixation on getting hold of the sword is just half of the storyline. Joshua, who is destined to inherit the sword, provides a romantic angle to the story along with his betrothed, Llyonesse. The Victor is a wonderful fantasy adventure that all readers will surely enjoy.

Reviewed by Parul Sood for Readers' Favorite

In Keepers & Destinies by Carl F. Brothers, readers are thrust into a world teetering on the edge of Armageddon, where the fate of Earth hangs precariously in the balance. Andrea, an underestimated and overlooked angel, embarks on a mission to find the key to prevailing in the ultimate battle between good and evil. Her initial objective is to locate the Prophet and obtain the prophecy to give heaven an advantage in the impending clash of worlds. To aid her in this task, she enlists the help of James, a beleaguered private investigator wrestling with his demons. As human and supernatural threats test their alliance, the consequences of their actions surpass their expectations. Along the way, as Andrea becomes more comfortable in the human realm, she confronts a truth that places her amid the war rather than merely being an agent of heaven.

Keepers & Destinies by Carl F. Brothers transports readers to a world reminiscent of the thrilling Supernatural series, evoking a sense of nostalgia for fans like myself of Sam and Dean Winchester. The narrative weaves together epic twists and turns, unfurling at a rapid tempo that ensures there is never a dull moment. Along Andrea's journey, intriguing and diverse characters join her, adding layers of depth to the story. Each encounter brings new dimensions to the plot, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages to see how these characters influence the outcome. Andrea's voyage of self-discovery adds another intriguing layer to the plot. As she unravels the truth about her identity, readers are treated to revelations that contribute to the story's complexity. The stakes are high, and the story unfolds with skillful pacing that keeps readers invested in the outcome. The Christian imagery and angelic theme are deftly handled, appealing to readers regardless of their faith background. The dialogue between the characters is engaging, and the world-building is immersive, making it a truly enjoyable fantasy read. Brothers has crafted a fantasy novel with grit, high-quality storytelling, and well-developed characters. Fans of the genre will be delighted by this action-packed and well-written book.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

Severed Roots by Nego Huzcotoq is a timely dystopian novel that touches on a contemporary social issue regarding sex and gender equality and makes a bold prediction as to where a matriarchal society could lead. Picture a world run and managed by women where the rates of violence have been greatly reduced as the result of men becoming sidelined. It all sounds so promising. Nick Wong is part of the male populace and is a product of an education system that prohibits any form of patriarchy. On the other hand, Beatrice Tender has been conditioned by feminist philosophies that would never give back power to men who they refer to as 'mankeys.' Nick finds Beatrice to be different, as she respects his ideas, and he then discovers that he can truly care for another person. But society will not allow their mutual feelings to bloom.

I make a bold prediction that Severed Roots may well become a classic in the tradition of 1984 and Brave New World. As the story revolves around the notion of feminist totalitarianism, Nego Huzcotoq powerfully explores the unseen disease of an ostensibly utopian world in which violence is almost eradicated and the citizenry appears content, but sacrificing freedom in its wider sense makes the system deplorable. This novel is highly interesting as it illustrates the dangers of radicalism and fanaticism. Huzcotoq sends the message that no single ideology has the power to save us successfully, and this theme is what makes the story so thought-provoking. It could even stir drastic reactions because it will likely strike a nerve. This is not a complex read and it is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s a tale that I will not forget, and I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever contemplated the concepts of gender, sex, and equality.

Reviewed by Tracy Traynor for Readers' Favorite

Matt Barron’s Prentice Ash, Book 1 in the Rage of the Lions Series, is a thrilling read. Prentice Ash is a convict working in a quarry in the Western Reach. The chief steward is a miserable man too fond of his whip. After years of doing the same thing, their day is suddenly interrupted by the arrival of knights and the disheveled Duchess of Dweltford. Bandits are chasing them and the knights demand that the convicts step in to fight against the pursuing men. Only these are no ordinary bandits; they’re an organized killing team. When a fierce beast appears and starts tearing people apart, a few run for shelter in the church. When the attackers finally leave, only three convicts, the priest, the duchess, and a handful of knights are left alive. Duchess Amelia admires the way Prentice and Turley save Bellam and decides to take them with her to Castle Dweltford. The prince is rallying the Grand Kingdom Army to battle the invaders, but he has no idea of their strength and numbers. Prentice must submit to unjust punishments and hold onto his values because he has a vital part to play in the battle at Fallenhill. The promise of his freedom drives him to win against all odds.

Wow! Not since I read the Wheel of Time twenty-five years ago have I had to immediately go and buy the next in a series! Prentice Ash by Matt Barron melds two of my favorite genres—fantasy and Christian fiction. Prentice is a convict (the lowest of the low). His treatment, and that of his fellow convicts, is horrendous. I seethed against it; sometimes I found it almost too hard to read. But I had to… from the very beginning questions arise to which I needed answers. Why is he a convict? Where does he come from? Who attacked them? What was that creature that couldn’t enter the church? The whole book was suspenseful from start to finish. Barron has created a gripping fantasy series, dramatic, full of tension, and with an opening that immediately had me invested. The images of God as the lion and the serving convict were powerful. The knowledge that God stood behind Prentice and was doing His work through him had me on the edge of my seat. The plot is terrific, the pace is fast, the fantasy elements enthralling, and the main character unforgettable. Prentice Ash is a brilliant read, and highly recommended.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Genesis Awakens is the first book in the Footnail series by authors Howard Haugom and Akorede Adekoya. The Nail Bears have the responsibility to keep the three special nails of history hidden from the Accursed. The Accursed is a group of people who will do whatever it takes to get hold of the three special nails of history and abuse the great power in them. Coming from a long line of Nail Bearers, Gen is the new guardian. Although she was shocked at first, with the help of surprisingly capable friends and family, Gen is ready to protect the nails. The tussle leads to a chase that will end with one of the groups in possession of the nails. If the Accursed get their hands on the nails, they will unleash their powers and destroy everything. Gen needs to do whatever it takes to get to the nails first and protect them. But can she?

Genesis, a.k.a. Gen, is a relatable character that I formed a connection with instantly. I loved her witty charm and sarcastic dialogues. The story is the kind of young adult fantasy that people of any age or genre bias can read and enjoy. While the current young adult fantasy genre is filled with royalty and tortured female leads, Gen is a breath of fresh air and a break we desperately need. The opening scene with Helena and Calisto is incredible and from there onward, authors Howard Haugom and Akorede Adekoya did a fantastic job to keep the same pace and action alive. The story is fantastic, and the mystery behind the Accursed is handled exceptionally well. The suspense is sustained until the end, the mystery keeps readers guessing what will happen next, and the authors leave enough questions unanswered for readers to anticipate the next novel in the series. Fantastic!

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Shawn Michael Gotch pens an out-of-this-world narrative in The Scent of Heaven. Throughout the ages, humans have pondered the question of life after death. Is there a heaven and what is it really like? Aubrey Christopher Lewis discovers the answer to this question. Aubrey is a writer and a journalist. After dying in a car accident, Aubrey arrives in heaven. It's not quite what he imagined, but it far surpasses all he could have ever wished or hoped for. Using his gift of writing, Aubrey attempts to chronicle his heavenly adventures. Yet earthly words cannot truly do it justice. Upon his arrival, he is transformed in body, soul, and spirit! His graduation from earth to heaven is beyond description. He hears angelic language, meets his “guardian,” sees unfathomable sights, and experiences the extraordinary as he discovers his true self. There is nothing ordinary in heaven, mysteries abound, you “learn as you go.” The Breath of Life beckons Aubrey to come, behold, and breathe in The Scent of Heaven.

The Scent of Heaven by Shawn Michael Gotch takes us to where we all long to go – Heaven. Mr. Gotch is an excellent wordsmith. He takes you into the realm of heaven with vivid and imaginative descriptions. The plot is written intelligently, yet with joviality. It captures your heart and pierces your soul with “could this be possible?” amazement. The inclusion of angelic language gives depth to the dialogues and adds to the air of mystery of the marvelous world of heaven. Gotch skillfully uses creative liberties in developing the ethereal setting. He gives us a story that goes beyond singing and harp music. The plot depicts heaven with an eternal objective, and its residents have a purposeful forever life. I like that concept. The narrative does have elements of fantasy, unusual characters, and visions of the vastness of the heavens. Gotch transports the reader into the heavens, revealing the never-ending wonders of God. “The heavens proclaim the glory of God, and the skies display his craftsmanship” (Psalm 19:10). This scripture is illustrated with an incredible imagination. The Scent of Heaven lingers in your mind; it touches your soul in unusual ways. Its aroma hovers long after the last word is read.

Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite

In his novel The Penitent: Part 1, author A. Keith Carreiro tells the story of Pall Warren. Pall’s mother died during childbirth, leaving his father, David, to raise him. Pall met High Marshall Solace Umbré, who commanded an elite unit of men called the Aeonian Guard, and his captain, Joseph Martains. Pall joined Solace’s army under the tutelage of Sergeant Meginhard and Sergeant Burchard. Pall went to war where he met Commander John Savage and the two encounter a Valravn, a supernatural raven. Pall and John find shelter in an abandoned farmhouse where Paul is attacked by Captain Error and his men, Gregor and Gordo of the Mordant Marauders. Savage kills two of the men before seeing an Ünger, an evil three-in-one monster who devoured people. After his escape, Pall met Thomas and Alicia Cooper with their two daughters, Myra and Mary, and traveled with them to Gullswater. Along the way, Ünger found them and it was up to Pall to save himself and the Cooper family.

The Penitent is a suspenseful story filled with action and adventure. Author A. Keith Carreiro has penned a beautiful novel with an array of unusual characters, both real and imagined. The scenes and locations including the farmhouse, forest, rivers, and trees come to life as Pall makes his way to Gullswater. I love Keith’s use of the English language and descriptive writing, including poems and songs. The battle scenes show us that war is brutal and causes only suffering and pain. “The wonder and guilt of it all were seen in the survivors who walked away from the sufferings of war. However, if you want peace, prepare for war.” The Penitent is an exceptional story, highly recommended to everyone.

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Ashley McCoury pens a riveting futuristic saga in 2020 Injection. Today, serial number 2020 turns seventeen. She realizes no matter what her future holds, the life she knows now is over. As a child, her surrogate named her Alexandra, but under the rule of The Sovereignty, she is just a number. She enters the ever-dreaded sanitorium, her fate lies in their hands. Will she become a “carrier,” or will she receive the injection? 2020 has never fitted in, always feeling inferior to others, never being allowed the freedom to be herself, so she is not surprised that the Sovereignty determines – injection! With her mind and heart racing, 2020 exits the sanatorium. Trying to flee her thoughts and her doomed situation, she begins running. 2020 has been taught the injection brings unity and equality to society. Yet she cannot help wondering how having all her emotions stripped from her makes the world a better place. In her haste, and distracted by her thoughts, 2020 collides with a stranger. She is confused by his smile, kind words, and light-hearted manner; his behavior is extremely odd. 2020 remains bewildered long after returning to her dwelling at the Establishment. While trying to explain her bizarre encounter to 0207, there is an explosion. At this moment 2020’s world turns upside down, chaos erupts, and there amid the danger is the stranger. He leads her and a small group away from the destruction. 2020 is horrified by the devastation and mystified by this mysterious man? Who is he? Where is he taking her? More importantly, can he be trusted? Only time will tell.

2020 Injection by Ashley McCoury is a thought-provoking, on the edge of your seat, nail-biting look into the future. McCoury grabs you with her opening line, and then reels you in with thrills, twists, and turns galore! Extremely captivating and intelligently written, the pages seem to turn automatically. The narrative is told from the point of view of the heroine; therefore, you do not miss out on a single thought or emotion as her dynamic character develops and grows. Surrounding her is an excellent cast of characters. Each one unique and pivotal in the telling of the story. Being a Christian myself, I became curious when the element of Christianity was going to be introduced. McCoury places this aspect in the plot with finesse and precision, creating an alluring character rather than a pious, religious idea. The conflict is both external and internal. World systems collide. Establishment versus the Outlandish, the Outlandish against the Seditionist, each trying to overthrow and outwit the other. Yet, the inner turmoil of the characters is just as traumatic and dramatic. In the center of all this turmoil is the “injection” that creates emotionless, empty vessels, easily controlled. The theme subtly woven into the plot is summed up in this perfectly placed line - “without emotion, there is no individual thought.” Ashley McCoury takes you on a rollercoaster of ups and downs, and emotions are at the helm. 2020 Injection reveals the essence of uniqueness, combined with the power to forgive those who try to take it from you. As Ashley McCoury’s 2020 Injection concludes, you are left clinging to hope and begging for more of it.