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Recommend this book:
Hælend's Ballad
Ian Conrey
2022 Gold Medal
777 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The kingdoms of Daecland and Sunder and those who live within them create the landscape for the dark high fantasy novel Hælend's Ballad by Ian Conrey. The brutality of a war that splinters from a years-long occupation against the Sunderians by the Daecish. The depth of persecution and despair runs incredibly deep, the disparity between the haves and have-nots, and the system established both politically and underground are crushing to those below the upper echelons. The rise of the Silent Hither movement, initially crippled but once more growing in momentum, and the strength of its Dark Horses, are ready to fight back against all odds.
“With brothers, we march this day
For Theos, we shout and pray
Our hearts will kindle and burn
Though few of us return...”
Ian Conrey has undertaken a wildly ambitious project in his steampunk-medieval fantasy tome Hælend's Ballad. The book is expertly written with really gorgeous prose and some of the most authentic dialogue I've come across in a while in the genre. It is the restraint of Conrey's pacing and the focus on characters that truly elevate the story, both the mark of an exceptionally gifted storyteller. The sheer volume of characters requires a bit of homework on the part of a reader, at least at first, to keep them straight and play connect-the-dots with plots and subplots amidst a massive amount of finely-crafted military strategy. War crimes are courageously depicted with no holds barred, but without even entering the realm of gratuitous, and action scenes leap from the page. There is also a top layer of nuanced religious tones that is applied a' la Lewis, Dekker, and Tolkien. I'm not putting Conrey in the space of these titans right now, but this is a genuine 'sit and wait' moment with the world-building that has the potential to get at least 2/3 of the way there. Very highly recommended.
The kingdoms of Daecland and Sunder and those who live within them create the landscape for the dark high fantasy novel Hælend's Ballad by Ian Conrey. The brutality of a war that splinters from a years-long occupation against the Sunderians by the Daecish. The depth of persecution and despair runs incredibly deep, the disparity between the haves and have-nots, and the system established both politically and underground are crushing to those below the upper echelons. The rise of the Silent Hither movement, initially crippled but once more growing in momentum, and the strength of its Dark Horses, are ready to fight back against all odds.
“With brothers, we march this day
For Theos, we shout and pray
Our hearts will kindle and burn
Though few of us return...”
Ian Conrey has undertaken a wildly ambitious project in his steampunk-medieval fantasy tome Hælend's Ballad. The book is expertly written with really gorgeous prose and some of the most authentic dialogue I've come across in a while in the genre. It is the restraint of Conrey's pacing and the focus on characters that truly elevate the story, both the mark of an exceptionally gifted storyteller. The sheer volume of characters requires a bit of homework on the part of a reader, at least at first, to keep them straight and play connect-the-dots with plots and subplots amidst a massive amount of finely-crafted military strategy. War crimes are courageously depicted with no holds barred, but without even entering the realm of gratuitous, and action scenes leap from the page. There is also a top layer of nuanced religious tones that is applied a' la Lewis, Dekker, and Tolkien. I'm not putting Conrey in the space of these titans right now, but this is a genuine 'sit and wait' moment with the world-building that has the potential to get at least 2/3 of the way there. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Seventh Spark
Knights of the Trinity
J.B. Lion
2021 Finalist
173 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
The Seventh Spark: Knights of the Trinity by J.B. Lion is a highly entertaining graphic novel that looks like the offspring of a consumer magazine and a gamer’s manual guide. It paves the way to a new format in fiction influenced by the popularity of electronic games. The story opens in the dead of night as three mysterious beings meet to talk about the last two planets being protected by the Knights of the Trinity. One of these beings, the Reaper, claims that the realm of men is about to fall. He has a devious machination of igniting evil that will spread and infect life. Meanwhile, most of the knights have lost faith and confidence in the people that they protect, but they present their best-trained warriors when Artemus the Protector is killed and it precipitates a celestial war.
I found myself very invested in reading this graphic novel. The illustrations may not be on par with popular comic book illustrators, but they do the job and it saves you time from pouring too much energy into imagining what these fantastic beings look like. J.B. Lion has created an immersive world with likable characters in a narrative voice that is foreboding and poetic at the same time. The angels appear unique in the sense that they slightly deviate from the traditional preconceived images we have of them. For all we know, The Seventh Spark may be embodying a kind of power that is unknown to us during an earlier time. Reading this graphic novel offers a spiritual and philosophical question of whether or not humankind can still redeem its rightful place in paradise. I recommend this book for its creative and imaginary vision. It’s a totally unique reading experience.
The Seventh Spark: Knights of the Trinity by J.B. Lion is a highly entertaining graphic novel that looks like the offspring of a consumer magazine and a gamer’s manual guide. It paves the way to a new format in fiction influenced by the popularity of electronic games. The story opens in the dead of night as three mysterious beings meet to talk about the last two planets being protected by the Knights of the Trinity. One of these beings, the Reaper, claims that the realm of men is about to fall. He has a devious machination of igniting evil that will spread and infect life. Meanwhile, most of the knights have lost faith and confidence in the people that they protect, but they present their best-trained warriors when Artemus the Protector is killed and it precipitates a celestial war.
I found myself very invested in reading this graphic novel. The illustrations may not be on par with popular comic book illustrators, but they do the job and it saves you time from pouring too much energy into imagining what these fantastic beings look like. J.B. Lion has created an immersive world with likable characters in a narrative voice that is foreboding and poetic at the same time. The angels appear unique in the sense that they slightly deviate from the traditional preconceived images we have of them. For all we know, The Seventh Spark may be embodying a kind of power that is unknown to us during an earlier time. Reading this graphic novel offers a spiritual and philosophical question of whether or not humankind can still redeem its rightful place in paradise. I recommend this book for its creative and imaginary vision. It’s a totally unique reading experience.
Recommend this book:
Phoenix
Field Of Mars (The Phoenix Trilogy)
Jackie Anders
2021 Honorable Mention
221 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Phoenix: Field Of Mars is a work of fiction in the science fiction, Christian and historical adventure fiction sub-genres, and was penned by author Jackie Anders. The work is intended for the general reading audience, and it forms the first novel of The Phoenix Trilogy of sci-fi historical crossover adventures. Our protagonist is Kyla Marshall, an ambitious young woman whose life changes forever when she stumbles upon a secret operation that takes her back to the year 8 A.D. in ancient Rome. Never knowing if she’ll reach home again, Kyla must learn who to trust and how to survive, as well as seeking out a secret plot that could rewrite history as the world knows it.
Author Jackie Anders has crafted a rip-roaring adventurous work of fiction with plenty of conceptual excitement, deep emotions, and harrowing moments to offer its readers. In terms of its presentation of character, I found that the use of close narration created a deeper emotional resonance, especially with Kyla and her struggles, and I felt that the adjustments she made to a whole new reality were inviting and convincing. The dialogue was also highly effective, serving to display the unique traits of the characters whilst moving the plot forward in a natural way. These elements created a powerful sense of immersion which, along with the cinematic detailing of the descriptive work and the excellent pace of the plot, makes for a striking trilogy opener that delivers everything it promises. Overall, I would highly recommend Phoenix: Field Of Mars to fans of fantastic historical crossover fiction, realistic and heartfelt character depictions, and sci-fi enthusiasts everywhere.
Phoenix: Field Of Mars is a work of fiction in the science fiction, Christian and historical adventure fiction sub-genres, and was penned by author Jackie Anders. The work is intended for the general reading audience, and it forms the first novel of The Phoenix Trilogy of sci-fi historical crossover adventures. Our protagonist is Kyla Marshall, an ambitious young woman whose life changes forever when she stumbles upon a secret operation that takes her back to the year 8 A.D. in ancient Rome. Never knowing if she’ll reach home again, Kyla must learn who to trust and how to survive, as well as seeking out a secret plot that could rewrite history as the world knows it.
Author Jackie Anders has crafted a rip-roaring adventurous work of fiction with plenty of conceptual excitement, deep emotions, and harrowing moments to offer its readers. In terms of its presentation of character, I found that the use of close narration created a deeper emotional resonance, especially with Kyla and her struggles, and I felt that the adjustments she made to a whole new reality were inviting and convincing. The dialogue was also highly effective, serving to display the unique traits of the characters whilst moving the plot forward in a natural way. These elements created a powerful sense of immersion which, along with the cinematic detailing of the descriptive work and the excellent pace of the plot, makes for a striking trilogy opener that delivers everything it promises. Overall, I would highly recommend Phoenix: Field Of Mars to fans of fantastic historical crossover fiction, realistic and heartfelt character depictions, and sci-fi enthusiasts everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Tales of Elhaanai
Nicole Patrice Thomas
2021 Bronze Medal
144 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Timothy R Baldwin for Readers' Favorite
When King Kaison is poisoned, his wife Alanna is on the run in hopes of protecting their unborn child, Alric. It is prophesied by the Oracle that this boy will possess a power no other before has ever known. In one final act of her own gifts, Alanna exchanges the unborn Alric within her womb with the stillborn boy of a woman carrying twins. This woman will become Alric’s surrogate mother and her daughter, Elainea, will become his sister. Both will be raised by this woman, Wleia, to believe in “The One” and live good and virtuous lives. Thus, King Kaison’s and Queen Alanna’s child is preserved until he and the sister of the womb are able to take on and hone their gifts. Meanwhile, with no good person ruling in their stead, evil takes hold at the hands of Alric’s aunt Devona who dabbles in dark magic and uses it to place her son, David, in power. Only, her dark magic works far better and far less predictably than she, or anyone, could ever imagine. Charged by Wleia to work together and protect each other in the battle to come, the siblings will soon meet an ally in the most unlikely of persons who they will need more than they could ever imagine in the trials soon to come.
Author Nicole Thomas creatively captures a tale of prophecy, treachery, and magic in her fantasy novel, Tales of Elhaanai. Thomas’ tale of betrayal and the fulfillment of a prophecy related to Alric is reminiscent of so many stories. Yet, lest one thinks it lacks originality, Thomas puts her own spin on the motif, incorporating Judeo-Christian mysticism that points to a higher purpose in this fantasy world where there is a true battle between good and evil. Middle-grade readers will identify with the sibling rivalry and banter between Alric and Elainea as they grow and come to maturity. They will also be immersed in the adventure when Alric and Elainea venture off to hone their gifts while around them evil is mounting. Overall, I liked the story and I think it could be a real hit with middle-grade readers.
When King Kaison is poisoned, his wife Alanna is on the run in hopes of protecting their unborn child, Alric. It is prophesied by the Oracle that this boy will possess a power no other before has ever known. In one final act of her own gifts, Alanna exchanges the unborn Alric within her womb with the stillborn boy of a woman carrying twins. This woman will become Alric’s surrogate mother and her daughter, Elainea, will become his sister. Both will be raised by this woman, Wleia, to believe in “The One” and live good and virtuous lives. Thus, King Kaison’s and Queen Alanna’s child is preserved until he and the sister of the womb are able to take on and hone their gifts. Meanwhile, with no good person ruling in their stead, evil takes hold at the hands of Alric’s aunt Devona who dabbles in dark magic and uses it to place her son, David, in power. Only, her dark magic works far better and far less predictably than she, or anyone, could ever imagine. Charged by Wleia to work together and protect each other in the battle to come, the siblings will soon meet an ally in the most unlikely of persons who they will need more than they could ever imagine in the trials soon to come.
Author Nicole Thomas creatively captures a tale of prophecy, treachery, and magic in her fantasy novel, Tales of Elhaanai. Thomas’ tale of betrayal and the fulfillment of a prophecy related to Alric is reminiscent of so many stories. Yet, lest one thinks it lacks originality, Thomas puts her own spin on the motif, incorporating Judeo-Christian mysticism that points to a higher purpose in this fantasy world where there is a true battle between good and evil. Middle-grade readers will identify with the sibling rivalry and banter between Alric and Elainea as they grow and come to maturity. They will also be immersed in the adventure when Alric and Elainea venture off to hone their gifts while around them evil is mounting. Overall, I liked the story and I think it could be a real hit with middle-grade readers.
Recommend this book:
The Boy Who Cried Christmas
Dennis Bailey
2021 Silver Medal
227 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Donna Parrey for Readers' Favorite
The FBI is called in when a young boy disappears from his New York City high-rise apartment, and readers of The Boy Who Cried Christmas by Dennis Bailey are off on an adventure that might be described as “It’s a Wonderful Life” meets “Polar Express” meets “CSI: NY.” Nine-year-old Logan lives the rich-kid life, but kindness to a homeless vet sets off an unlikely string of events that brings Logan back in time to witness the birth of Jesus. Meanwhile, his parents are frantic, the police are perplexed, and FBI investigator, Marcus, is troubled by his own connection to the event. This book is a study in relationships … the increasing conflict between Logan’s parents, agent Marcus’s troubled past, the introduction of Wendell and the uncertainty about his intentions, and more.
Author Dennis Bailey holds the reader’s rapt attention by alternating the chapters between Logan’s experience in ancient Israel and current-day happenings back home. The Boy Who Cried Christmas excels in character development, and Logan’s sharing of his beloved Chick-Fil-A lunch with a homeless man is just the start. While the protagonist is a child, the FBI agent’s consideration of suicide, the threat of a beheading in Israel, and an atheist’s bomb-making research all contribute to a concept appropriate for mature readers. More importantly, Logan’s character arc is intriguing for readers to witness as he develops relationships with the shepherds. This is a Christmas story unlike no other. Yes, it’s a Christian theme, but the action in both New York City and ancient Israel will keep readers captivated through to the book’s stunning conclusion.
The FBI is called in when a young boy disappears from his New York City high-rise apartment, and readers of The Boy Who Cried Christmas by Dennis Bailey are off on an adventure that might be described as “It’s a Wonderful Life” meets “Polar Express” meets “CSI: NY.” Nine-year-old Logan lives the rich-kid life, but kindness to a homeless vet sets off an unlikely string of events that brings Logan back in time to witness the birth of Jesus. Meanwhile, his parents are frantic, the police are perplexed, and FBI investigator, Marcus, is troubled by his own connection to the event. This book is a study in relationships … the increasing conflict between Logan’s parents, agent Marcus’s troubled past, the introduction of Wendell and the uncertainty about his intentions, and more.
Author Dennis Bailey holds the reader’s rapt attention by alternating the chapters between Logan’s experience in ancient Israel and current-day happenings back home. The Boy Who Cried Christmas excels in character development, and Logan’s sharing of his beloved Chick-Fil-A lunch with a homeless man is just the start. While the protagonist is a child, the FBI agent’s consideration of suicide, the threat of a beheading in Israel, and an atheist’s bomb-making research all contribute to a concept appropriate for mature readers. More importantly, Logan’s character arc is intriguing for readers to witness as he develops relationships with the shepherds. This is a Christmas story unlike no other. Yes, it’s a Christian theme, but the action in both New York City and ancient Israel will keep readers captivated through to the book’s stunning conclusion.
Recommend this book:
The Flight of the Schimmerplotz
Alias Brains and Brawn Book 1
Charles A. Salter
2021 Gold Medal
212 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
The Flight of the Schimmerplotz: Alias Brains and Brawn Book 1 by Charles A. Salter is a Christian thriller bursting with fun, excitement, and humor. This short work will have you speeding through the pages in no time, all the while entertaining you and keeping you invested in an interesting story of biblical proportions. The suspenseful mystery begins with a shimmering but deadly window hovering in Battery Park. It terrifies Brex, aka Dr. Brains Herndon, and his goddaughter Sara. Brex is the smartest human in the universe. Brex and his partner/bodyguard/best friend Agent Jacks "Brawn" Rigalto (Sara's father) work for the Cosmic Intelligence Group, which is part of the US Space Force, and together they find out that a hostile takeover of the world is underway, with origins that go back to the Tower of Babel. This window is a time-traveling window that transports them to different times in history, where they work to solve the conspiracy and conquer lethal creatures and humanlike giants in order to save the world.
Salter uses an energetic style to combine the ancient with the futuristic, resulting in a dynamic-duo tale that has you guessing and giggling all the way. This author's imagination is what really drives the story, and you'll find yourself caught up in the plot right away. The sense of humor sets this book apart from most other time travel/space fantasy adventures, which is a breath of fresh air. The unique characters are clearly defined and full of life and quirks, the pacing is just right for this type of story, and the suspense is well-timed. The fact that the story reaches back to the Tower of Babel will appeal to anyone familiar with the account and is the centerpiece of the story. I like that the plot is easy to follow and that the author takes time to introduce us to the characters and their families/home life, and of course BigBear their dog. The bond the characters have with one another is appealing, especially between Brex and Jacks--alpha male and diminutive genius are best friends. The Flight of the Schimmerplotz by Charles A. Salter is a great escape with heart and humor.
The Flight of the Schimmerplotz: Alias Brains and Brawn Book 1 by Charles A. Salter is a Christian thriller bursting with fun, excitement, and humor. This short work will have you speeding through the pages in no time, all the while entertaining you and keeping you invested in an interesting story of biblical proportions. The suspenseful mystery begins with a shimmering but deadly window hovering in Battery Park. It terrifies Brex, aka Dr. Brains Herndon, and his goddaughter Sara. Brex is the smartest human in the universe. Brex and his partner/bodyguard/best friend Agent Jacks "Brawn" Rigalto (Sara's father) work for the Cosmic Intelligence Group, which is part of the US Space Force, and together they find out that a hostile takeover of the world is underway, with origins that go back to the Tower of Babel. This window is a time-traveling window that transports them to different times in history, where they work to solve the conspiracy and conquer lethal creatures and humanlike giants in order to save the world.
Salter uses an energetic style to combine the ancient with the futuristic, resulting in a dynamic-duo tale that has you guessing and giggling all the way. This author's imagination is what really drives the story, and you'll find yourself caught up in the plot right away. The sense of humor sets this book apart from most other time travel/space fantasy adventures, which is a breath of fresh air. The unique characters are clearly defined and full of life and quirks, the pacing is just right for this type of story, and the suspense is well-timed. The fact that the story reaches back to the Tower of Babel will appeal to anyone familiar with the account and is the centerpiece of the story. I like that the plot is easy to follow and that the author takes time to introduce us to the characters and their families/home life, and of course BigBear their dog. The bond the characters have with one another is appealing, especially between Brex and Jacks--alpha male and diminutive genius are best friends. The Flight of the Schimmerplotz by Charles A. Salter is a great escape with heart and humor.
Recommend this book:
Seed
Judgment - Science Fantasy of Biblical Proportions.
Joshua David
2020 Honorable Mention
227 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Seed: Judgment is a work of fiction in the science fiction, fantasy, and Christian sub-genres, and was penned by author Joshua David. In this opening book to a continuing series, we find ourselves in a desolate world that has been torn apart by a war with a cosmic demon. We meet protagonist Sal, who mans one of the final outposts left on Earth where few survivors remain, and embark with him on a covert mission to find a special target in the wasteland. Believing deeply that his target holds the spirit to rid his world of darkness, Sal begins an epic quest against the conquerors to see if the prophecy holds true.
Author Joshua David has crafted a truly epic tale that lives up to its grand opening and sensational concept. From the off, the worldbuilding is convincing, atmospheric, and immersive, an essential for any fantasy setting. The post-apocalyptic land we find ourselves in seems hopeless, which makes it all the more exciting when little rays of light begin to shine through the darkness. It is a truly emotional journey, one empowered all the more by its Christian themes, and one which makes us root for the characters despite the odds stacked against them. Sal is a well-developed protagonist with a clear family history, legacy, and something to prove to the world. I really enjoyed his battle against the alien oppressors, and what it represents in the wider themes. Overall, I would certainly recommend Seed: Judgment to fans of science fiction and dystopian fantasy everywhere.
Seed: Judgment is a work of fiction in the science fiction, fantasy, and Christian sub-genres, and was penned by author Joshua David. In this opening book to a continuing series, we find ourselves in a desolate world that has been torn apart by a war with a cosmic demon. We meet protagonist Sal, who mans one of the final outposts left on Earth where few survivors remain, and embark with him on a covert mission to find a special target in the wasteland. Believing deeply that his target holds the spirit to rid his world of darkness, Sal begins an epic quest against the conquerors to see if the prophecy holds true.
Author Joshua David has crafted a truly epic tale that lives up to its grand opening and sensational concept. From the off, the worldbuilding is convincing, atmospheric, and immersive, an essential for any fantasy setting. The post-apocalyptic land we find ourselves in seems hopeless, which makes it all the more exciting when little rays of light begin to shine through the darkness. It is a truly emotional journey, one empowered all the more by its Christian themes, and one which makes us root for the characters despite the odds stacked against them. Sal is a well-developed protagonist with a clear family history, legacy, and something to prove to the world. I really enjoyed his battle against the alien oppressors, and what it represents in the wider themes. Overall, I would certainly recommend Seed: Judgment to fans of science fiction and dystopian fantasy everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Ansgar: The Struggle of a People. The Triumph of the Heart. Abridged Edition
Part I of The Windflower Saga Trilogy
Aleksandra Layland
2020 Bronze Medal
268 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite
Ansgar - The Struggle of a People, The Triumph of the Heart is written by Aleksandra Layland. Over a century after explorers conquered and settled in Kimbria, King Bogumil finally managed to unite all its regions, appointing each of his sons a leader of one of the four regions. Ansgar, the king's youngest son, was given the Southlands where the Kimbrii, the indigenous people, now resided under very unfair colonial laws. Ansgar had never met the Kimbrii but he was keen to find them. He did not expect his first journey to the Southlands to be an easy one but it was much more challenging than he could have imagined. It was while on this quest that he woke from his second near-death accident to find himself staring into the face that he could only describe as that of an angel. This accidental meeting started a union between two people so different and yet so alike, with its effects spiraling far beyond the two of them.
Ansgar by Aleksandra Layland is a beautiful story with a heartwarming sense of love, family, and community. Although set in an unknown place and time, it carries an important message on many issues that our society still struggles with. It delivers a message about race and social injustices and a hopeful reminder that love conquers all. It also shows us the true meaning of civilization; beyond power and status. I absolutely loved this story and as Ansgar began to learn and understand the ways and traditions of the Kimbrii so did I; falling completely in love with the beauty and simplicity of their ways. Aleksandra Layland did an amazing job bringing this incredible tale to life.
Ansgar - The Struggle of a People, The Triumph of the Heart is written by Aleksandra Layland. Over a century after explorers conquered and settled in Kimbria, King Bogumil finally managed to unite all its regions, appointing each of his sons a leader of one of the four regions. Ansgar, the king's youngest son, was given the Southlands where the Kimbrii, the indigenous people, now resided under very unfair colonial laws. Ansgar had never met the Kimbrii but he was keen to find them. He did not expect his first journey to the Southlands to be an easy one but it was much more challenging than he could have imagined. It was while on this quest that he woke from his second near-death accident to find himself staring into the face that he could only describe as that of an angel. This accidental meeting started a union between two people so different and yet so alike, with its effects spiraling far beyond the two of them.
Ansgar by Aleksandra Layland is a beautiful story with a heartwarming sense of love, family, and community. Although set in an unknown place and time, it carries an important message on many issues that our society still struggles with. It delivers a message about race and social injustices and a hopeful reminder that love conquers all. It also shows us the true meaning of civilization; beyond power and status. I absolutely loved this story and as Ansgar began to learn and understand the ways and traditions of the Kimbrii so did I; falling completely in love with the beauty and simplicity of their ways. Aleksandra Layland did an amazing job bringing this incredible tale to life.
Recommend this book:
Stolen Shroud
Daniel Westlund
2020 Silver Medal
333 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Scott Cahan for Readers' Favorite
Stolen Shroud by Daniel Westlund is a fast-paced thriller with Christian and science fiction overtones. As the book’s title promises, the story is about the stealing of the famous Shroud of Turin that many believe to be the actual burial cloth of Jesus Christ. An average guy named Mark is the sole witness to the stealing of the shroud. He and a beautiful reporter named Cora try to recover the shroud but it isn’t long before they end up in all kinds of trouble at the hands of some very powerful people. The story is told by alternating scenes from the modern-day effort to recover the shroud to flashbacks that reveal how Mark, Cora, and a few other key characters got mixed up in the whole circus of events.
The Stolen Shroud works extremely well on several levels. I’ve never been a big fan of flashbacks in a story, especially when they are used as extensively as they are in Stolen Shroud. However, Daniel Westlund is a master at making each scene from the past interesting enough to stand on its own. As the book goes on, the flashbacks build on each other and add a crucial understanding of the present-day story. I was also thrilled to see the Christian faith of the main character handled with such honesty and truth. The shroud, after all, is a relic that potentially has great meaning for Christians. It seemed natural to me when the main characters grappled with what it all means. The discussions between Mark and the non-believing Cora surrounding the validity of Christianity were interesting and real, and never felt tacked on to support one side or the other. I also liked the addition of some science fiction elements that helped to keep the story fun and unpredictable. Stolen Shroud will appeal to Christian readers and atheists, shroud believers, and shroud doubters. I found it to be a solid thriller with strong characters and a wild and crazy plot. I highly recommend Stolen Shroud.
Stolen Shroud by Daniel Westlund is a fast-paced thriller with Christian and science fiction overtones. As the book’s title promises, the story is about the stealing of the famous Shroud of Turin that many believe to be the actual burial cloth of Jesus Christ. An average guy named Mark is the sole witness to the stealing of the shroud. He and a beautiful reporter named Cora try to recover the shroud but it isn’t long before they end up in all kinds of trouble at the hands of some very powerful people. The story is told by alternating scenes from the modern-day effort to recover the shroud to flashbacks that reveal how Mark, Cora, and a few other key characters got mixed up in the whole circus of events.
The Stolen Shroud works extremely well on several levels. I’ve never been a big fan of flashbacks in a story, especially when they are used as extensively as they are in Stolen Shroud. However, Daniel Westlund is a master at making each scene from the past interesting enough to stand on its own. As the book goes on, the flashbacks build on each other and add a crucial understanding of the present-day story. I was also thrilled to see the Christian faith of the main character handled with such honesty and truth. The shroud, after all, is a relic that potentially has great meaning for Christians. It seemed natural to me when the main characters grappled with what it all means. The discussions between Mark and the non-believing Cora surrounding the validity of Christianity were interesting and real, and never felt tacked on to support one side or the other. I also liked the addition of some science fiction elements that helped to keep the story fun and unpredictable. Stolen Shroud will appeal to Christian readers and atheists, shroud believers, and shroud doubters. I found it to be a solid thriller with strong characters and a wild and crazy plot. I highly recommend Stolen Shroud.
Recommend this book:
Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider
Ellen C Maze
2020 Gold Medal
292 Pages
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen C Maze is perhaps the only original novel I have come across after reading the Harry Potter series. The thrill, the mystery and the suspense of the chase had my heart racing and wanting more. I enjoyed how Beth is hard-headed enough to stand her ground but intelligent enough to know when she should run away. The story itself is brilliantly constructed and developed, which kept my attention and had me literally begging for more.
This is the story of Beth Rider, an author who struck gold when her vampire novel reached number one. She was happy, even ecstatic, but during one fateful book signing event, she comes across a stranger who threatens her. Now she finds herself the target of an ancient vampiric race called the Rakum who will not stop until they get their hands on her and kill her. It is literally a race against time and a race for her life. If she slows down, she will die, but how far can she run?
The story is absolutely genius. I was literally biting my nails and wanting to know what would happen next. I was rooting for Beth and needed her to survive this race against time. She is the perfect protagonist. She is humble, intelligent, headstrong and simply a genuine person that I could meet in real life. This made me relate to her and enjoy reading about her even more. Her growth was tremendous, which added more to the story. I loved it!
Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen C Maze is perhaps the only original novel I have come across after reading the Harry Potter series. The thrill, the mystery and the suspense of the chase had my heart racing and wanting more. I enjoyed how Beth is hard-headed enough to stand her ground but intelligent enough to know when she should run away. The story itself is brilliantly constructed and developed, which kept my attention and had me literally begging for more.
This is the story of Beth Rider, an author who struck gold when her vampire novel reached number one. She was happy, even ecstatic, but during one fateful book signing event, she comes across a stranger who threatens her. Now she finds herself the target of an ancient vampiric race called the Rakum who will not stop until they get their hands on her and kill her. It is literally a race against time and a race for her life. If she slows down, she will die, but how far can she run?
The story is absolutely genius. I was literally biting my nails and wanting to know what would happen next. I was rooting for Beth and needed her to survive this race against time. She is the perfect protagonist. She is humble, intelligent, headstrong and simply a genuine person that I could meet in real life. This made me relate to her and enjoy reading about her even more. Her growth was tremendous, which added more to the story. I loved it!
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