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Holiday Spirit
John DeGuire
2024 Finalist
386 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
The townsfolk of Killington become concerned when their children start going missing under unusual circumstances. Many of them are casting suspicious glances in the direction of a particular section of the residents with an unusual history. In a bid to forestall another violent incident from the townsfolk caused by mistaken identity, a few of these special individuals band together to find the missing children but can Frankenstein, Dracula, and his bride succeed? Years of misunderstanding, cruelty, and unfair accusations have led to the beginning of an insidious agenda in Holiday Spirit by John DeGuire.
In this horror novel by John DeGuire, a character hatches a cunning scheme to exact revenge on the community she lives in for the years of cruelty and abuse she and her family have endured. DeGuire's writing is rich with nuanced layers of complexity. First, the dark lord of the vampires, Dracula, has a close relationship with a werewolf; second, the town fire chief is a relatable version of Frankenstein's monster. These bases ensure the reader an exciting read in which their imagination will undoubtedly contribute to their appreciation of DeGuire's literary skills. A reader will be drawn into the story by the characters' well-developed origin stories, and fans of the horror genre will enjoy DeGuire's analytical style of narrating the particularly graphic parts of the novel. The author provides each character in this story arc with a positive aspect that the reader can relate to, which makes his work stand out. Holiday Spirit is a tale in which the reader's perspective determines who the real antagonist is. This is a masterfully written book that sends shivers down the spine.
The townsfolk of Killington become concerned when their children start going missing under unusual circumstances. Many of them are casting suspicious glances in the direction of a particular section of the residents with an unusual history. In a bid to forestall another violent incident from the townsfolk caused by mistaken identity, a few of these special individuals band together to find the missing children but can Frankenstein, Dracula, and his bride succeed? Years of misunderstanding, cruelty, and unfair accusations have led to the beginning of an insidious agenda in Holiday Spirit by John DeGuire.
In this horror novel by John DeGuire, a character hatches a cunning scheme to exact revenge on the community she lives in for the years of cruelty and abuse she and her family have endured. DeGuire's writing is rich with nuanced layers of complexity. First, the dark lord of the vampires, Dracula, has a close relationship with a werewolf; second, the town fire chief is a relatable version of Frankenstein's monster. These bases ensure the reader an exciting read in which their imagination will undoubtedly contribute to their appreciation of DeGuire's literary skills. A reader will be drawn into the story by the characters' well-developed origin stories, and fans of the horror genre will enjoy DeGuire's analytical style of narrating the particularly graphic parts of the novel. The author provides each character in this story arc with a positive aspect that the reader can relate to, which makes his work stand out. Holiday Spirit is a tale in which the reader's perspective determines who the real antagonist is. This is a masterfully written book that sends shivers down the spine.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/fireline&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41k%2B59b0PZL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="There are different kinds of justice," and Fireline by Anthony DeCapite reveals one more. Mace and Caleb are brothers serving time together. Their world is the tragedy of prison, where life is a brutal reality that few can understand without having been there. Once Caleb is killed (while protecting Mace) over an incident that makes little sense to...){kind=link}
Fireline
A Gritty Revenge Thriller (Mason Jones Book 1)
Anthony DeCapite
2024 Honorable Mention
320 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
"There are different kinds of justice," and Fireline by Anthony DeCapite reveals one more. Mace and Caleb are brothers serving time together. Their world is the tragedy of prison, where life is a brutal reality that few can understand without having been there. Once Caleb is killed (while protecting Mace) over an incident that makes little sense to the outside world, his brother vows revenge. Possessed by all-consuming hate, Mace devises a plan to hunt down and murder Graham, the man who killed his brother. Joining a prisoner firefighting unit with his newfound ally, Ortiz, Mace eventually comes close to his target. But this is a different existence from the penitentiary, and the would-be-assassin discovers new possibilities when he finds himself regarded as more than a convict. In a world where the stakes become higher than expected, Mace realizes there are many types of fire; some are external, others burn within, but all can destroy equally.
There is nothing generic about this novel, and reading it made me feel as if I were walking a tightrope without a safety net while someone threw knives at me. What begins as a tale of revenge slowly and imperceptibly becomes a story of redemption. Anthony Decapite offers a masterclass in immersion as I found this novel authentic, fascinating, and sublime. There is violence, but it's never gratuitous; there is action, but it's not over the top, and there is humor and compassion when I least expected it. Character development is exemplary, and I readily sympathized with the protagonist, even when his actions were questionable. It's a harsh read at times, not because it's written poorly but because of the subject. Yet it is also a beautifully balanced tale where every ingredient is in the perfect quantity and sequence. The result is that Fireline is a vivid and realistic thriller that will appeal to fans of many genres, including action, drama, and adventure.
"There are different kinds of justice," and Fireline by Anthony DeCapite reveals one more. Mace and Caleb are brothers serving time together. Their world is the tragedy of prison, where life is a brutal reality that few can understand without having been there. Once Caleb is killed (while protecting Mace) over an incident that makes little sense to the outside world, his brother vows revenge. Possessed by all-consuming hate, Mace devises a plan to hunt down and murder Graham, the man who killed his brother. Joining a prisoner firefighting unit with his newfound ally, Ortiz, Mace eventually comes close to his target. But this is a different existence from the penitentiary, and the would-be-assassin discovers new possibilities when he finds himself regarded as more than a convict. In a world where the stakes become higher than expected, Mace realizes there are many types of fire; some are external, others burn within, but all can destroy equally.
There is nothing generic about this novel, and reading it made me feel as if I were walking a tightrope without a safety net while someone threw knives at me. What begins as a tale of revenge slowly and imperceptibly becomes a story of redemption. Anthony Decapite offers a masterclass in immersion as I found this novel authentic, fascinating, and sublime. There is violence, but it's never gratuitous; there is action, but it's not over the top, and there is humor and compassion when I least expected it. Character development is exemplary, and I readily sympathized with the protagonist, even when his actions were questionable. It's a harsh read at times, not because it's written poorly but because of the subject. Yet it is also a beautifully balanced tale where every ingredient is in the perfect quantity and sequence. The result is that Fireline is a vivid and realistic thriller that will appeal to fans of many genres, including action, drama, and adventure.
Recommend this book:
A Bargain with Darkness
The Shadow Bidder Series 2
Peter Eliott
2024 Bronze Medal
438 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
In A Bargain With Darkness, Peter Eliott explores a hellish landscape through the eyes and experiences of its main character, Vazeer the Lash. This tale begins in Hell’s Labyrinth after the destructive effects of the Swell Driver, a catastrophic flood. Amid the disarray left behind in Sullward, the Raving Blade appears from the shadows. This sinister villain is driven by an insatiable desire to inflict anguish on the people. Vazeer is the only one skilled enough to defeat him. Vazeer, however, is thrust into a web of lies and betrayals that he must cleverly maneuver through if he wants to stay alive. He aligns himself with a formidable assassin and former associates who would rather see him dead. Vazeer's actions might eventually propel him into the pathway of the ever-sadistic Raving Blade. All readers can do at this point is hope he does not lose himself to the same darkness he is fighting against.
Peter Eliott is a brilliant writer. His detailed character analysis and world-building will draw you into this gripping and intriguing saga. Eliott depicts Hell’s Labyrinth as a harsh and unpredictable land. The line between ally and enemy is often obscured and constantly changing in this tale. The intricately written plot binds readers in suspense from beginning to end. Eliott successfully brings his characters to life through his enigmatic storytelling. Vazeer is naturally the star of the hour. His wry and nuanced personality style adds mystery to the storyline. The numerous twists and turns, treacheries, and countless subplots will make you question who you can and cannot trust throughout the storyline. It was a pleasure watching Vazeer maneuver his way out of close encounters. Like a cat with fifty lives, Vazeer immerses readers in neverending anticipation. A Bargain With Darkness is a stunning addition to the fantasy genre. Fantasy lovers are certainly in for a treat.
In A Bargain With Darkness, Peter Eliott explores a hellish landscape through the eyes and experiences of its main character, Vazeer the Lash. This tale begins in Hell’s Labyrinth after the destructive effects of the Swell Driver, a catastrophic flood. Amid the disarray left behind in Sullward, the Raving Blade appears from the shadows. This sinister villain is driven by an insatiable desire to inflict anguish on the people. Vazeer is the only one skilled enough to defeat him. Vazeer, however, is thrust into a web of lies and betrayals that he must cleverly maneuver through if he wants to stay alive. He aligns himself with a formidable assassin and former associates who would rather see him dead. Vazeer's actions might eventually propel him into the pathway of the ever-sadistic Raving Blade. All readers can do at this point is hope he does not lose himself to the same darkness he is fighting against.
Peter Eliott is a brilliant writer. His detailed character analysis and world-building will draw you into this gripping and intriguing saga. Eliott depicts Hell’s Labyrinth as a harsh and unpredictable land. The line between ally and enemy is often obscured and constantly changing in this tale. The intricately written plot binds readers in suspense from beginning to end. Eliott successfully brings his characters to life through his enigmatic storytelling. Vazeer is naturally the star of the hour. His wry and nuanced personality style adds mystery to the storyline. The numerous twists and turns, treacheries, and countless subplots will make you question who you can and cannot trust throughout the storyline. It was a pleasure watching Vazeer maneuver his way out of close encounters. Like a cat with fifty lives, Vazeer immerses readers in neverending anticipation. A Bargain With Darkness is a stunning addition to the fantasy genre. Fantasy lovers are certainly in for a treat.
Recommend this book:
Of Friction
S.J. Lee
2024 Bronze Medal
388 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Of Friction is a work of fiction in the dystopian, conspiracy thriller, and suspense subgenres. The work is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the presence of explicit language throughout, as well as scenes of graphic violence, death, and mentions of substance abuse. Penned by author S.J. Lee, this bold and interesting work explores decades of hostilities and the chance for peace amidst belligerent groups. Sam ‘Valkyrie’ Ryan, a recon specialist, grapples with personal and professional challenges as she navigates a pivotal reconciliation summit between Altered and Human factions while combating human-supremacist terrorists.
Author S.J. Lee has crafted a superb work of dystopian thriller fiction that expertly weaves together all the precision and sharpness of great military fiction with compelling character dynamics and a tense, fast-paced plot. Sam is a complex and relatable protagonist, struggling with her emotions while fulfilling her duties in a volatile and dangerous world, and I enjoyed the way her speech and thoughts were portrayed to give us a deeply personal look at her journey. The tension escalates with a fantastically sharp pace to the plot, and although I could never quite predict the twists that were coming, there were plenty of clues laid to make each revelation feel realistic and really satisfying. The slow-burn LGBTQ+ romance was a pleasant addition that never felt gimmicky, but added a lot of nuance and originality to the narrative, enhancing the emotional stakes and character development all the more. Overall, Of Friction is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression, and I would highly recommend it to dystopian fiction fans seeking a unique new read.
Of Friction is a work of fiction in the dystopian, conspiracy thriller, and suspense subgenres. The work is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the presence of explicit language throughout, as well as scenes of graphic violence, death, and mentions of substance abuse. Penned by author S.J. Lee, this bold and interesting work explores decades of hostilities and the chance for peace amidst belligerent groups. Sam ‘Valkyrie’ Ryan, a recon specialist, grapples with personal and professional challenges as she navigates a pivotal reconciliation summit between Altered and Human factions while combating human-supremacist terrorists.
Author S.J. Lee has crafted a superb work of dystopian thriller fiction that expertly weaves together all the precision and sharpness of great military fiction with compelling character dynamics and a tense, fast-paced plot. Sam is a complex and relatable protagonist, struggling with her emotions while fulfilling her duties in a volatile and dangerous world, and I enjoyed the way her speech and thoughts were portrayed to give us a deeply personal look at her journey. The tension escalates with a fantastically sharp pace to the plot, and although I could never quite predict the twists that were coming, there were plenty of clues laid to make each revelation feel realistic and really satisfying. The slow-burn LGBTQ+ romance was a pleasant addition that never felt gimmicky, but added a lot of nuance and originality to the narrative, enhancing the emotional stakes and character development all the more. Overall, Of Friction is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression, and I would highly recommend it to dystopian fiction fans seeking a unique new read.
Recommend this book:
 by V.K. Pasanen does more than cross boundaries; it obliterates them. Nathan Miller, a gifted journalist who pursues fame at considerable cost, also has one unique and perhaps unwanted talent. Mr. Miller has t...){kind=link}
Interview With Death
Tales from the Afterworld Book 1
V. K. Pasanen
2024 Silver Medal
314 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
Some barriers should never be breached because once crossed, there is no going back. Interview With Death (Tales From The Afterworld book 1) by V.K. Pasanen does more than cross boundaries; it obliterates them. Nathan Miller, a gifted journalist who pursues fame at considerable cost, also has one unique and perhaps unwanted talent. Mr. Miller has the uncanny ability to see Death personified as a grandfatherly figure dressed in black. While tragedy embraces Nathan's life from an early age, it doesn't diminish his hunger for fame, regardless of the escalating price. As alternate realities and timeless secrets are exposed, Nathan will also learn that he isn't interviewing Death but that Death is interviewing him, and his transgressions must be paid for in full. If not in this life, then certainly in the next.
Interview With Death by V.K. Pasanen is a psychedelic and metaphysical tale that cleverly relates to real-life choices and consequences. It's action-packed and filled with flights of fancy that showcase the author's vivid imagination while creating a kaleidoscopic reality. The writing style is flexible and highly effective, with even a brief switch to diary mode that provides deeper insight into the protagonist's slide into wretchedness. The characters were fascinating, and as this type of novel allows a writer to disregard some constraints when developing them, I was delighted to see V.K. Pasanen exploit that advantage to the fullest. I highly recommend Interview With Death to fans of supernatural tales; reading it is akin to the giddy delight of opening an unexpected present.
Some barriers should never be breached because once crossed, there is no going back. Interview With Death (Tales From The Afterworld book 1) by V.K. Pasanen does more than cross boundaries; it obliterates them. Nathan Miller, a gifted journalist who pursues fame at considerable cost, also has one unique and perhaps unwanted talent. Mr. Miller has the uncanny ability to see Death personified as a grandfatherly figure dressed in black. While tragedy embraces Nathan's life from an early age, it doesn't diminish his hunger for fame, regardless of the escalating price. As alternate realities and timeless secrets are exposed, Nathan will also learn that he isn't interviewing Death but that Death is interviewing him, and his transgressions must be paid for in full. If not in this life, then certainly in the next.
Interview With Death by V.K. Pasanen is a psychedelic and metaphysical tale that cleverly relates to real-life choices and consequences. It's action-packed and filled with flights of fancy that showcase the author's vivid imagination while creating a kaleidoscopic reality. The writing style is flexible and highly effective, with even a brief switch to diary mode that provides deeper insight into the protagonist's slide into wretchedness. The characters were fascinating, and as this type of novel allows a writer to disregard some constraints when developing them, I was delighted to see V.K. Pasanen exploit that advantage to the fullest. I highly recommend Interview With Death to fans of supernatural tales; reading it is akin to the giddy delight of opening an unexpected present.
Recommend this book:
Tribal Honor
T.G. Brown
2024 Gold Medal
370 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Tribal Honor is a work of fiction by author T.G. Brown in the action, cultural drama, and crime genres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to its gritty themes and adult situations. Warren Lawson, an elite Tribal Police Officer on the Jericho Nation Reservation in Oregon, faces a dramatic upheaval when Marvin Bingham, a man with a penchant for killing, disrupts the peace. Bingham’s actions attract twin Native American brothers seeking revenge outside the law. As Warren tries to maintain order amidst three killers, his moral convictions are severely tested. The escalating violence forces Warren to question his dedication to the law and his own identity, leading to a complex and bloody conflict on the reservation.
Author T.G. Brown's intense and gripping novel immersed me in a world where morality and justice are constantly at odds, and I loved every moment of it. Warren Lawson's character was compelling, his dedication to upholding the law juxtaposed against the brutal reality of violence and prejudice everywhere. He was characterized by brilliant narration and strong dialogue that showed his attitude and emotional depth well. The peaceful setting of the Jericho Nation Reservation provided a stark contrast to the escalating tension and bloodshed, making the stakes feel even higher as we got to know different people, cultures, and beliefs in authentic detail. Each twist in the case kept me on edge with a fantastic sense of timing by the author. The moral dilemmas Warren faced were deeply thought-provoking and well-considered. His internal struggle and the external chaos created a powerful narrative that explored the complexities of justice, revenge, and the human condition. The portrayal of cultural elements and the nuances of tribal law added richness to the story, making it not just a thriller but a profound exploration of ethical boundaries and personal honor. Overall, Tribal Honor is a novel that both entertains and provokes deep thought long after you’ve set the book down, and it is a highly recommended read.
Tribal Honor is a work of fiction by author T.G. Brown in the action, cultural drama, and crime genres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to its gritty themes and adult situations. Warren Lawson, an elite Tribal Police Officer on the Jericho Nation Reservation in Oregon, faces a dramatic upheaval when Marvin Bingham, a man with a penchant for killing, disrupts the peace. Bingham’s actions attract twin Native American brothers seeking revenge outside the law. As Warren tries to maintain order amidst three killers, his moral convictions are severely tested. The escalating violence forces Warren to question his dedication to the law and his own identity, leading to a complex and bloody conflict on the reservation.
Author T.G. Brown's intense and gripping novel immersed me in a world where morality and justice are constantly at odds, and I loved every moment of it. Warren Lawson's character was compelling, his dedication to upholding the law juxtaposed against the brutal reality of violence and prejudice everywhere. He was characterized by brilliant narration and strong dialogue that showed his attitude and emotional depth well. The peaceful setting of the Jericho Nation Reservation provided a stark contrast to the escalating tension and bloodshed, making the stakes feel even higher as we got to know different people, cultures, and beliefs in authentic detail. Each twist in the case kept me on edge with a fantastic sense of timing by the author. The moral dilemmas Warren faced were deeply thought-provoking and well-considered. His internal struggle and the external chaos created a powerful narrative that explored the complexities of justice, revenge, and the human condition. The portrayal of cultural elements and the nuances of tribal law added richness to the story, making it not just a thriller but a profound exploration of ethical boundaries and personal honor. Overall, Tribal Honor is a novel that both entertains and provokes deep thought long after you’ve set the book down, and it is a highly recommended read.
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The Dawn of AI
Paper War
Ryan LeKodak
2023 Finalist
498 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Dawn of AI is a work of fiction in the science fiction, dystopia adventure, and thriller subgenres, and forms the opening novel of the Paper War series. Penned by author Ryan LeKodak, the work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. In this chilling futuristic work filled with grim technologies, near-future catastrophes, and dark disasters, we are introduced to the tragedy of Mayday. In this AI-run transportation nightmare that causes millions to die worldwide, conspiracy rears its ugly head. Was it all just a simple accident, or is there a sinister subplot resulting in deliberate slaughter across the globe?
Author Ryan LeKodak has crafted a thrilling and deeply suspenseful science fiction novel with a lot of food for thought. The story plays out across different elements to cover this global disaster from many different angles, all of which ultimately weave into the central debate about the dangers of letting our lives be totally ruled by AI systems that we may have created but have no true guarantee of ever fully controlling. As these debates become a more and more popular theme for novels, it’s refreshing to see a talented author like LeKodak take the trope into the dystopian disaster novel niche and deliver an action-packed tale that gives just as many blockbuster thrills as it does intelligent technological questions. The plot and its themes are the primary focus, but in the ensemble cast of characters caught in the crossfire, each one has good solid development and moments to shine. Overall, I would certainly recommend The Dawn of AI to enthusiasts of intricately penned and exciting science fiction everywhere.
The Dawn of AI is a work of fiction in the science fiction, dystopia adventure, and thriller subgenres, and forms the opening novel of the Paper War series. Penned by author Ryan LeKodak, the work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. In this chilling futuristic work filled with grim technologies, near-future catastrophes, and dark disasters, we are introduced to the tragedy of Mayday. In this AI-run transportation nightmare that causes millions to die worldwide, conspiracy rears its ugly head. Was it all just a simple accident, or is there a sinister subplot resulting in deliberate slaughter across the globe?
Author Ryan LeKodak has crafted a thrilling and deeply suspenseful science fiction novel with a lot of food for thought. The story plays out across different elements to cover this global disaster from many different angles, all of which ultimately weave into the central debate about the dangers of letting our lives be totally ruled by AI systems that we may have created but have no true guarantee of ever fully controlling. As these debates become a more and more popular theme for novels, it’s refreshing to see a talented author like LeKodak take the trope into the dystopian disaster novel niche and deliver an action-packed tale that gives just as many blockbuster thrills as it does intelligent technological questions. The plot and its themes are the primary focus, but in the ensemble cast of characters caught in the crossfire, each one has good solid development and moments to shine. Overall, I would certainly recommend The Dawn of AI to enthusiasts of intricately penned and exciting science fiction everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Deathwind
War of the Harbingers
Brad Pawlowski
2023 Honorable Mention
439 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
War of the Harbingers: Deathwind is a work of fiction in the science fiction, action, and adventure subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Brad Pawlowski. In this thrilling work that moves at a mile a minute, we find ourselves embroiled in the exciting world of interstellar conflict with Nathan Stryder, formerly a simple college student from Earth. Plucked from obscurity and plunged into this dangerous situation, Nathan uses his savvy ways to negotiate himself out of captivity and barter for his sister's freedom, but doing so requires him to serve in his saviors’ military. Here he meets a kindred soul, Arista, and begins to learn about the world around him and the friends and foes that wait around every corner.
Author Brad Pawlowski has crafted a wonderfully comprehensive work of science fiction that leaves no stone unturned in its development. The layers of worldbuilding and concept that form the bedrock of the story are solidly developed, with a particular interest in the Meraki Dominya and their culture, attitudes, and history. The alien threats are well-realized, not just as the plot's big, exciting danger points but as a separate force with their own internal logic and fully-rounded society. Then there’s Nathan and Arista, whose character development, close narrative, and sharply-penned dialogue allow us a deeper insight into their attitudes and feelings, moving the plot forward effortlessly with naturalistic exposition but also bonding us to them. To top it all off, the fantastic pacing of the novel allows for slow-burning moments of suspense and character development that suddenly spill into tense twists, conspiracies, battles, and heroic moments with cinematic depiction. Overall, War of the Harbingers: Deathwind is a novel that fans of well-penned, sensational science fiction simply must read.
War of the Harbingers: Deathwind is a work of fiction in the science fiction, action, and adventure subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Brad Pawlowski. In this thrilling work that moves at a mile a minute, we find ourselves embroiled in the exciting world of interstellar conflict with Nathan Stryder, formerly a simple college student from Earth. Plucked from obscurity and plunged into this dangerous situation, Nathan uses his savvy ways to negotiate himself out of captivity and barter for his sister's freedom, but doing so requires him to serve in his saviors’ military. Here he meets a kindred soul, Arista, and begins to learn about the world around him and the friends and foes that wait around every corner.
Author Brad Pawlowski has crafted a wonderfully comprehensive work of science fiction that leaves no stone unturned in its development. The layers of worldbuilding and concept that form the bedrock of the story are solidly developed, with a particular interest in the Meraki Dominya and their culture, attitudes, and history. The alien threats are well-realized, not just as the plot's big, exciting danger points but as a separate force with their own internal logic and fully-rounded society. Then there’s Nathan and Arista, whose character development, close narrative, and sharply-penned dialogue allow us a deeper insight into their attitudes and feelings, moving the plot forward effortlessly with naturalistic exposition but also bonding us to them. To top it all off, the fantastic pacing of the novel allows for slow-burning moments of suspense and character development that suddenly spill into tense twists, conspiracies, battles, and heroic moments with cinematic depiction. Overall, War of the Harbingers: Deathwind is a novel that fans of well-penned, sensational science fiction simply must read.
Recommend this book:
Welcome to the Silent Zone
A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller
Viktor Csák
2023 Bronze Medal
404 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Welcome to the Silent Zone: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller by Csák Viktor is a supernatural dystopian novel that revolves around four main characters seven years after the Breakdown, marked by the fall of humanity to zombie-like creatures known as ferals. Siblings named David and Megan flee an outpost of survivors. Pregnant, Megan neither trusts the motivation of those who have provided sanctuary nor is she willing to live forever in that single place. At a pivotal moment, they are saved from ferals by the unlikely alliance of Cassius and Abigail, whose near familial relationship remains intact despite the heavy personal loss on both sides. Megan has a secret in her belly, and possibly in her entire being, that can change the survival game radically...but first, they really do have to survive, and when ferals choose who they are going to hunt they will not stop until they've caught their prey.
Welcome to the Silent Zone by Csák Viktor offers a slightly different angle to the post-apocalyptic 'virus turns people into killing machines—who turn other people into killing machines' genre, choosing to refurbish the wheel rather than reinvent it. The writing is clean and Viktor is skilled in action scenes that keep the pace at full speed ahead. Once I got to the desirability of Megan and her baby, it did strike me as uncomfortably similar to the hook of a wildly famous video game, but in a novel format, it was fun to be immersed in the world and get to know the characters. Abigail is the most likeable and her youth gives us hope for the future. I think what I like most about her is a naivete that is refreshing in her innocence, like her only having her second drink ever in the middle of the book, and her overlooking of a document that is, in boldface font, literally called the NEW WORLD MANIFESTO, as if it's unlikely to be anything important. I laughed because that's something my own kid would do. Overall, this is a polished novel with a great, action-packed plot and a standout in the genre. Very highly recommended.
Welcome to the Silent Zone: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller by Csák Viktor is a supernatural dystopian novel that revolves around four main characters seven years after the Breakdown, marked by the fall of humanity to zombie-like creatures known as ferals. Siblings named David and Megan flee an outpost of survivors. Pregnant, Megan neither trusts the motivation of those who have provided sanctuary nor is she willing to live forever in that single place. At a pivotal moment, they are saved from ferals by the unlikely alliance of Cassius and Abigail, whose near familial relationship remains intact despite the heavy personal loss on both sides. Megan has a secret in her belly, and possibly in her entire being, that can change the survival game radically...but first, they really do have to survive, and when ferals choose who they are going to hunt they will not stop until they've caught their prey.
Welcome to the Silent Zone by Csák Viktor offers a slightly different angle to the post-apocalyptic 'virus turns people into killing machines—who turn other people into killing machines' genre, choosing to refurbish the wheel rather than reinvent it. The writing is clean and Viktor is skilled in action scenes that keep the pace at full speed ahead. Once I got to the desirability of Megan and her baby, it did strike me as uncomfortably similar to the hook of a wildly famous video game, but in a novel format, it was fun to be immersed in the world and get to know the characters. Abigail is the most likeable and her youth gives us hope for the future. I think what I like most about her is a naivete that is refreshing in her innocence, like her only having her second drink ever in the middle of the book, and her overlooking of a document that is, in boldface font, literally called the NEW WORLD MANIFESTO, as if it's unlikely to be anything important. I laughed because that's something my own kid would do. Overall, this is a polished novel with a great, action-packed plot and a standout in the genre. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Zero Solar
The Inner Solar War Book 3
Anthony Robinson, M Robinson M.S.
2023 Silver Medal
349 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite
Zero Solar is a dark and gritty sci-fi action thriller by Anthony Robinson. Time is running out, and the fate of the two planets rests in Marcus’ hands. Determined to expose the truth, stop the war, and save countless lives, Marcus Bowen embarks on a dangerous journey that could possibly save both planets. Our favorite characters are brought together for the biggest fight of their lives. It has been an adventure following the protagonists and the antagonists on their respective journeys, putting myself in their shoes, and understanding them through each of their own riveting stories. It has been a real pleasure to watch Marcus and his team grow and learn throughout their trials and overcome their struggles.
This is a futuristic, science-fiction novel with amazing swordfights and a tricky political climate. The book's plot took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions: anticipation, fear, happiness, sadness, and many more! Zero Solar is the grand finale of the Inner Solar War Series and it is intense. Anthony Robinson has written an engrossing and exceptional action novel. I was constantly on the edge of my seat in anticipation because of the constant twists and the exciting and engaging plot. I loved how it all comes together neatly near the end. The revelations along the way led the story to an unforgettable ending. The setting was described simply and to the point; it helped me visualize the novel. It was like I was watching a great movie unfold in my mind as I read the final installment. As I neared the end, I tried to savor the remaining pages but even great books have to end. Zero Solar by Anthony Robinson is a memorable and exceptional read. I am looking forward to more work by the author. Great job!
Zero Solar is a dark and gritty sci-fi action thriller by Anthony Robinson. Time is running out, and the fate of the two planets rests in Marcus’ hands. Determined to expose the truth, stop the war, and save countless lives, Marcus Bowen embarks on a dangerous journey that could possibly save both planets. Our favorite characters are brought together for the biggest fight of their lives. It has been an adventure following the protagonists and the antagonists on their respective journeys, putting myself in their shoes, and understanding them through each of their own riveting stories. It has been a real pleasure to watch Marcus and his team grow and learn throughout their trials and overcome their struggles.
This is a futuristic, science-fiction novel with amazing swordfights and a tricky political climate. The book's plot took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions: anticipation, fear, happiness, sadness, and many more! Zero Solar is the grand finale of the Inner Solar War Series and it is intense. Anthony Robinson has written an engrossing and exceptional action novel. I was constantly on the edge of my seat in anticipation because of the constant twists and the exciting and engaging plot. I loved how it all comes together neatly near the end. The revelations along the way led the story to an unforgettable ending. The setting was described simply and to the point; it helped me visualize the novel. It was like I was watching a great movie unfold in my mind as I read the final installment. As I neared the end, I tried to savor the remaining pages but even great books have to end. Zero Solar by Anthony Robinson is a memorable and exceptional read. I am looking forward to more work by the author. Great job!
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