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Recommend this book:
Switching Tracks
Out of the Trash
Lena Gibson
2024 Finalist
402 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Scott Cahan for Readers' Favorite
Switching Tracks by Lena Gibson is an action-adventure love story set in a post-apocalyptic world. The story follows Elsa, a young woman barely surviving by scrounging for treasures in trash heaps. When she discovers a valuable artifact, her simple life suddenly becomes dark and complex. Elsa refuses to sell the artifact, knowing it’s the key to a better life for herself and her friends and family. Corrupt men from an evil corporation known as GreenCorps want Elsa’s treasure and will stop at nothing to get it. As Elsa’s life spirals out of control, she meets Walker, a train-hopping drifter. At first, Elsa is as suspicious of Walker as she is of all the other strange men after her. But when all hope looks lost, Elsa finds that Walker is the only one she can trust. Elsa and Walker take the artifact and flee for their lives with trouble close on their heels.
Switching Tracks is set in a broken world where human beings are driven to their natural extremes. It’s the clash between the good in some and the evil in others that makes Switching Tracks a joy to read. This book takes a deep dive into the hearts and minds of each of its main characters. They are all interesting and distinct with relatable personalities, good or bad. The plot moves at a considerable pace from one tense moment to the next. There are enough satisfying twists and turns to keep readers guessing about what will happen next. Fans of on-the-run love stories will find much to enjoy within the pages. Though the danger is never far away from Elsa and Walker, their steamy relationship takes center stage for much of the story. I highly recommend Switching Tracks by Lena Gibson for readers who like exciting love stories full of danger and passion.
Switching Tracks by Lena Gibson is an action-adventure love story set in a post-apocalyptic world. The story follows Elsa, a young woman barely surviving by scrounging for treasures in trash heaps. When she discovers a valuable artifact, her simple life suddenly becomes dark and complex. Elsa refuses to sell the artifact, knowing it’s the key to a better life for herself and her friends and family. Corrupt men from an evil corporation known as GreenCorps want Elsa’s treasure and will stop at nothing to get it. As Elsa’s life spirals out of control, she meets Walker, a train-hopping drifter. At first, Elsa is as suspicious of Walker as she is of all the other strange men after her. But when all hope looks lost, Elsa finds that Walker is the only one she can trust. Elsa and Walker take the artifact and flee for their lives with trouble close on their heels.
Switching Tracks is set in a broken world where human beings are driven to their natural extremes. It’s the clash between the good in some and the evil in others that makes Switching Tracks a joy to read. This book takes a deep dive into the hearts and minds of each of its main characters. They are all interesting and distinct with relatable personalities, good or bad. The plot moves at a considerable pace from one tense moment to the next. There are enough satisfying twists and turns to keep readers guessing about what will happen next. Fans of on-the-run love stories will find much to enjoy within the pages. Though the danger is never far away from Elsa and Walker, their steamy relationship takes center stage for much of the story. I highly recommend Switching Tracks by Lena Gibson for readers who like exciting love stories full of danger and passion.
Recommend this book:
Coup de Grâce
Paul L Centeno
2024 Honorable Mention
536 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Kaimo de Morté is a trained optometrist but, living in a small town, he has to work in the mines to save money that will fund his planned optical emporium. Living under an emperor who is seen as a god, some revolutionaries fight for political freedom. When Kaimo and the insurgents cross paths and Kaimo rescues a girl from an imperial cargo train, his world changes. He and the girl embark on a quest to find a scholar who can tell her more about the aether in her veins that Lord Cazar wants. On their travels, they encounter countless dangers and suffer betrayal and trauma. Once they reach the insurgents and discover that they are regarded as rebels, there is no turning back. Together with a witty automaton, Kaimo and Zylpha have to face danger, loss, and celebrations of life against the backdrop of a steampunk industrial world filled with automatons and mechanical works of wonder, such as the traveling City Mystwalker and the steam-powered airships. Coup de Grâce by Paul L Centeno is an entertaining and cleverly written work.
In Coup de Grâce, Paul L Centeno delivers a story that is intricate in its plot and crammed full of adventure and danger. Kaimo, the main protagonist, has experiences that change his way of viewing the world. All the characters follow a steep development curve, and the story has you holding your breath and on the edge of your seat. As Kaimo takes on the Imperium to save Zylpha, he has to reconsider his moral values and, in the end, form an alliance that goes against his principles to ensure a future where he and Zylpha can be together. The novel throws a curved ball in the last chapters and offers an unbelievable and brilliant solution to the crisis in the story. As a fan of steampunk, I can recommend this book to all who are in awe of the creativity of authors who create the steampunk worlds and the technology in them.
Kaimo de Morté is a trained optometrist but, living in a small town, he has to work in the mines to save money that will fund his planned optical emporium. Living under an emperor who is seen as a god, some revolutionaries fight for political freedom. When Kaimo and the insurgents cross paths and Kaimo rescues a girl from an imperial cargo train, his world changes. He and the girl embark on a quest to find a scholar who can tell her more about the aether in her veins that Lord Cazar wants. On their travels, they encounter countless dangers and suffer betrayal and trauma. Once they reach the insurgents and discover that they are regarded as rebels, there is no turning back. Together with a witty automaton, Kaimo and Zylpha have to face danger, loss, and celebrations of life against the backdrop of a steampunk industrial world filled with automatons and mechanical works of wonder, such as the traveling City Mystwalker and the steam-powered airships. Coup de Grâce by Paul L Centeno is an entertaining and cleverly written work.
In Coup de Grâce, Paul L Centeno delivers a story that is intricate in its plot and crammed full of adventure and danger. Kaimo, the main protagonist, has experiences that change his way of viewing the world. All the characters follow a steep development curve, and the story has you holding your breath and on the edge of your seat. As Kaimo takes on the Imperium to save Zylpha, he has to reconsider his moral values and, in the end, form an alliance that goes against his principles to ensure a future where he and Zylpha can be together. The novel throws a curved ball in the last chapters and offers an unbelievable and brilliant solution to the crisis in the story. As a fan of steampunk, I can recommend this book to all who are in awe of the creativity of authors who create the steampunk worlds and the technology in them.
Recommend this book:
Critical Habitat
Terrence King
2024 Bronze Medal
270 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Critical Habitat is a work in the science fiction, dystopia, action, and adventure subgenres. It is suitable for young and adult readers and contains minimal fantasy violence. Penned by Terrence King, this gripping and highly conceptual dystopian story transports us to a dying planet where survival is everything. Our central characters are X and Y, born in times of rebellion against an austere government controlling the world’s food supply. The rebels have survived thanks to a precious nest of honeybees, the last in the known world, but now the vicious General Speer is hell-bent on a quest to find and conquer the rebels and their precious supplies for the Authority once and for all.
Terrence King delivers a superb dystopian drama that feels incredibly tense throughout. There’s something so brilliant about the pace of the narrative and the atmospheric depiction of the dying world, where danger and annihilation seem to lurk around every corner. The worldbuilding is concrete and realistic, making the concept all the more believable and the plight of X, Y, and the rebels all the more frightening. With thriller as its base emotion, the story builds up layers of science fiction, horror, dystopia, and action to become a fully rounded dark drama that easily surpasses the more simplistic us-against-them stories, developing into a serious, passionate drama about human survival and the way greed and power can corrupt. I would not hesitate to recommend Critical Habitat to fans of intense dystopian stories packed with accomplished writing.
Critical Habitat is a work in the science fiction, dystopia, action, and adventure subgenres. It is suitable for young and adult readers and contains minimal fantasy violence. Penned by Terrence King, this gripping and highly conceptual dystopian story transports us to a dying planet where survival is everything. Our central characters are X and Y, born in times of rebellion against an austere government controlling the world’s food supply. The rebels have survived thanks to a precious nest of honeybees, the last in the known world, but now the vicious General Speer is hell-bent on a quest to find and conquer the rebels and their precious supplies for the Authority once and for all.
Terrence King delivers a superb dystopian drama that feels incredibly tense throughout. There’s something so brilliant about the pace of the narrative and the atmospheric depiction of the dying world, where danger and annihilation seem to lurk around every corner. The worldbuilding is concrete and realistic, making the concept all the more believable and the plight of X, Y, and the rebels all the more frightening. With thriller as its base emotion, the story builds up layers of science fiction, horror, dystopia, and action to become a fully rounded dark drama that easily surpasses the more simplistic us-against-them stories, developing into a serious, passionate drama about human survival and the way greed and power can corrupt. I would not hesitate to recommend Critical Habitat to fans of intense dystopian stories packed with accomplished writing.
Recommend this book:
First of His Kind
Sidus Book 1
Dan Sugralinov
2024 Silver Medal
502 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
First of His Kind by Dan Sugralinov revolves around Carter Riley, whose goal is to get to the planet Sidus after events have him waking up in a medical capsule, missing his arm, and with a tarnished reputation. Out of a combination of luck and thoughtful maneuvering, Riley eventually makes it to Sidus, where he and Chrissy search for their missing friends among a diversity of alien races. They ultimately end up in its arena, and as they strengthen their abilities, they also form alliances, including Beverly. Together with Beverly, they participate in battles, gradually improving their skills and rankings. Riley's cautious approach clashes with Beverly's eagerness for paid tournaments, but they eventually find success through teamwork and strategy, becoming more experienced competitors in the virtual battle arena setting. First of His Kind is book one in the LitRPG series, Sidus.
First of His Kind by Dan Sugralinov is kind of the first of my kind, as reading a game-themed book has long been on my list of genres to tackle, but I'd not yet come across a book tempting enough to commit to it. Sugralinov changed that with the story of Riley, who feels human enough to relate to but still has the bionics to make him believable in a science fiction role-playing game universe. Here, Sugralinov expertly combines science fiction, gaming, and strategic adventure, and half of the fun of Riley's journey is getting him to Sidus. As an origin story, this is critical and allows us to get to know him and what has been sacrificed to get him into the arena. Sugralinov develops a believable and super-absorbing game universe. The author transitions from almost pure science fiction to the seamless integration of gaming mechanics, alterations, and rankings. The result is a solid entry into the Sidus series, and thankfully, there won't be a long wait for book two as Protector of His Kind is already slated for release.
First of His Kind by Dan Sugralinov revolves around Carter Riley, whose goal is to get to the planet Sidus after events have him waking up in a medical capsule, missing his arm, and with a tarnished reputation. Out of a combination of luck and thoughtful maneuvering, Riley eventually makes it to Sidus, where he and Chrissy search for their missing friends among a diversity of alien races. They ultimately end up in its arena, and as they strengthen their abilities, they also form alliances, including Beverly. Together with Beverly, they participate in battles, gradually improving their skills and rankings. Riley's cautious approach clashes with Beverly's eagerness for paid tournaments, but they eventually find success through teamwork and strategy, becoming more experienced competitors in the virtual battle arena setting. First of His Kind is book one in the LitRPG series, Sidus.
First of His Kind by Dan Sugralinov is kind of the first of my kind, as reading a game-themed book has long been on my list of genres to tackle, but I'd not yet come across a book tempting enough to commit to it. Sugralinov changed that with the story of Riley, who feels human enough to relate to but still has the bionics to make him believable in a science fiction role-playing game universe. Here, Sugralinov expertly combines science fiction, gaming, and strategic adventure, and half of the fun of Riley's journey is getting him to Sidus. As an origin story, this is critical and allows us to get to know him and what has been sacrificed to get him into the arena. Sugralinov develops a believable and super-absorbing game universe. The author transitions from almost pure science fiction to the seamless integration of gaming mechanics, alterations, and rankings. The result is a solid entry into the Sidus series, and thankfully, there won't be a long wait for book two as Protector of His Kind is already slated for release.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/in-the-lair-of-legends&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51WsEbKwHcL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=In The Lair of Legends by David Buzan is a meticulously written work of fiction. Lieutenant Winterhawk is trying to escort gold earmarked for the federal reserve. It was after the American Civil War, and his great deeds in the war are still well respected. General Ramon, a self-proclaimed "confessor," keeps a journal of the last words spoken by tho...){kind=link}
IN THE LAIR OF LEGENDS
David Buzan
2024 Gold Medal
273 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
In The Lair of Legends by David Buzan is a meticulously written work of fiction. Lieutenant Winterhawk is trying to escort gold earmarked for the federal reserve. It was after the American Civil War, and his great deeds in the war are still well respected. General Ramon, a self-proclaimed "confessor," keeps a journal of the last words spoken by those he has killed, which is quite a high number. With the help of the Zouave and his militia, will he get his hands on the gold he believes belongs to Mexico? Meanwhile, in Oregon, where the lumber industry is booming, a mythical creature roams the land, killing people.
In The Lair of Legends by David Buzan was an adventure without having to leave my couch. The most interesting part of the book is its plotline, which is diverse and flawless. Buzan has also managed to utilize suspense to great effect. I loved how vivid he was with the explanations. The events and emotions of the characters are well described; it's like watching a movie. This book is entertaining and provides the reader with a glimpse of Native American culture and their thoughts on issues such as the Civil War, Christianity, and how the settler migrations affected them. I also loved how Buzan utilized stylistic devices such as flashbacks and flashforwards to fill the reader in. This book is a must-read. I can't wait to read something else from David Buzan.
In The Lair of Legends by David Buzan is a meticulously written work of fiction. Lieutenant Winterhawk is trying to escort gold earmarked for the federal reserve. It was after the American Civil War, and his great deeds in the war are still well respected. General Ramon, a self-proclaimed "confessor," keeps a journal of the last words spoken by those he has killed, which is quite a high number. With the help of the Zouave and his militia, will he get his hands on the gold he believes belongs to Mexico? Meanwhile, in Oregon, where the lumber industry is booming, a mythical creature roams the land, killing people.
In The Lair of Legends by David Buzan was an adventure without having to leave my couch. The most interesting part of the book is its plotline, which is diverse and flawless. Buzan has also managed to utilize suspense to great effect. I loved how vivid he was with the explanations. The events and emotions of the characters are well described; it's like watching a movie. This book is entertaining and provides the reader with a glimpse of Native American culture and their thoughts on issues such as the Civil War, Christianity, and how the settler migrations affected them. I also loved how Buzan utilized stylistic devices such as flashbacks and flashforwards to fill the reader in. This book is a must-read. I can't wait to read something else from David Buzan.
Recommend this book:
Driving Toward Destiny
A Novel
Tim Scott
2023 Finalist
400 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Because Jack Higgins wants to avoid being recruited to fight in the Vietnam War and the career-oriented job his father recommends he interview for, he accepts an invitation from a college friend, Bill Markus. Bill had offered for Jack to live with him in his Berlin apartment, where he had moved to get away from home and gain new experiences. As a result, Jack goes on a trip of a lifetime around Europe, which includes his first sexual encounter, sharing memories with a German WWII soldier, hopelessly falling for a girl in a relationship, and barely escaping death on perilous routes. In Tim Scott's Driving Toward Destiny, a college graduate embarks on a journey of self-discovery that involves riding his dream bike, reading philosophical literature, and touring Berlin, Greece, Athens, France, and other European areas.
Driving Toward Destiny is a fictitious voyage to remember set in a historical time with realistic individuals who ask understandable questions and have deep life insights. The protagonist's physical trip is effectively described and seamlessly integrated with his psychological journey of growing up and discovering his place in the world. Driving Toward Destiny is filled with diverse experiences that keep the reader's interest from the first page to the last, such as lovely moments shared with friends while feasting on freshly baked bread, romantic and passionate moments with lovers, profound life discussions with war survivors, and frightening encounters with law enforcement personnel. Tim Scott's intriguing book includes various themes such as biking, love, philosophy, travel, the Vietnam War, using mind-altering substances, family strife, and more. As a fan of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories, Driving Toward Destiny is undoubtedly one of my favorites.
Because Jack Higgins wants to avoid being recruited to fight in the Vietnam War and the career-oriented job his father recommends he interview for, he accepts an invitation from a college friend, Bill Markus. Bill had offered for Jack to live with him in his Berlin apartment, where he had moved to get away from home and gain new experiences. As a result, Jack goes on a trip of a lifetime around Europe, which includes his first sexual encounter, sharing memories with a German WWII soldier, hopelessly falling for a girl in a relationship, and barely escaping death on perilous routes. In Tim Scott's Driving Toward Destiny, a college graduate embarks on a journey of self-discovery that involves riding his dream bike, reading philosophical literature, and touring Berlin, Greece, Athens, France, and other European areas.
Driving Toward Destiny is a fictitious voyage to remember set in a historical time with realistic individuals who ask understandable questions and have deep life insights. The protagonist's physical trip is effectively described and seamlessly integrated with his psychological journey of growing up and discovering his place in the world. Driving Toward Destiny is filled with diverse experiences that keep the reader's interest from the first page to the last, such as lovely moments shared with friends while feasting on freshly baked bread, romantic and passionate moments with lovers, profound life discussions with war survivors, and frightening encounters with law enforcement personnel. Tim Scott's intriguing book includes various themes such as biking, love, philosophy, travel, the Vietnam War, using mind-altering substances, family strife, and more. As a fan of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories, Driving Toward Destiny is undoubtedly one of my favorites.
Recommend this book:
Painter of the Damned
Painted Souls Book 2
Rob Samborn
2023 Honorable Mention
402 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
In Painter of the Damned: Painted Souls Book 2, Rob Samborn presents a devilish story of mystery and deceit when Nick and Julia O’Connor try to return home at the end of what was supposed to be an idyllic vacation. But returning home won’t be easy. They are arrested as a result of a skirmish and inappropriate behavior that involved Interpol -- as if the couple had committed an international crime. They try to explain to their interrogating officer what appear to be serious accusations: the police kidnapping Julia and a museum director killing a countess. It occurred to Nick that they have no shred of evidence to support their claims. Salvatore Della Porta, head of the Ancient Order of the Seventh Sun and murderer of Countess Baldessari, wants something from Nick. He believes that Nick is the key to finding an ancient book that could either change the world or destroy the Order.
Gripping. This is one word that comes to mind about this second installment. Rob Samborn can give Dan Brown a run for his money. He weaves a story in a web of psychological intrigue that takes his readers on a roller coaster ride with an ancient order, a framed couple, and a Renaissance painting with an eerie secret. But it doesn’t stop there. Samborn has eloquent prose that gives a level of sophistication to a story with a broad mass appeal. Painter of the Damned is an exciting novel and immensely stylish in the way the plot makes a twist before concluding. Adding color to this thriller is an assortment of interesting characters that contribute to raising the stakes that Nick and Julia are up against. This is a story of survival and ultimately finding peace. If you are into enigmatic thrillers, this book will leave you wanting more.
In Painter of the Damned: Painted Souls Book 2, Rob Samborn presents a devilish story of mystery and deceit when Nick and Julia O’Connor try to return home at the end of what was supposed to be an idyllic vacation. But returning home won’t be easy. They are arrested as a result of a skirmish and inappropriate behavior that involved Interpol -- as if the couple had committed an international crime. They try to explain to their interrogating officer what appear to be serious accusations: the police kidnapping Julia and a museum director killing a countess. It occurred to Nick that they have no shred of evidence to support their claims. Salvatore Della Porta, head of the Ancient Order of the Seventh Sun and murderer of Countess Baldessari, wants something from Nick. He believes that Nick is the key to finding an ancient book that could either change the world or destroy the Order.
Gripping. This is one word that comes to mind about this second installment. Rob Samborn can give Dan Brown a run for his money. He weaves a story in a web of psychological intrigue that takes his readers on a roller coaster ride with an ancient order, a framed couple, and a Renaissance painting with an eerie secret. But it doesn’t stop there. Samborn has eloquent prose that gives a level of sophistication to a story with a broad mass appeal. Painter of the Damned is an exciting novel and immensely stylish in the way the plot makes a twist before concluding. Adding color to this thriller is an assortment of interesting characters that contribute to raising the stakes that Nick and Julia are up against. This is a story of survival and ultimately finding peace. If you are into enigmatic thrillers, this book will leave you wanting more.
Recommend this book:
 from France vanquished Prince Conradin in 1269, Sicily became a shadow of itself. Re Carlu used his fierce Angevin soldiers to subdue, dominate, and make the lives of Sicilians unbearable. However, seven-year-old Aetna Vespiri and her elder brother, Cicero, enjoyed relative comfort and safety until one day, Aetna�...){kind=link}
Siciliana
A Novel
Carlo Treviso
2023 Bronze Medal
483 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
After Charles of Anjou (Re Carlu) from France vanquished Prince Conradin in 1269, Sicily became a shadow of itself. Re Carlu used his fierce Angevin soldiers to subdue, dominate, and make the lives of Sicilians unbearable. However, seven-year-old Aetna Vespiri and her elder brother, Cicero, enjoyed relative comfort and safety until one day, Aetna’s life came to a grinding halt. The Angevins invaded her home, burnt it to the ground, killed her father, and took Cicero. But she escaped for years and learned to become a stiletto and combat master. The crossover of the Vespers heralded Aetna’s return as a new woman—Siciliana! Siciliana was ruthless, fearless, and on a mission to free Sicily. However, with unlikely allies and an unexpected enemy, will she succeed? Siciliana by Carlo Treviso has the complete details.
Siciliana by Carlo Treviso was an action-packed, suspense-filled, and captivating novel. If you love historical stories with formidable heroines, this is your book! Siciliana exposed me to medieval Sicily between 1269 and 1282, much of which history books do not cover. This novel effortlessly blended fact and fiction using descriptive writing. I enjoyed Carlo’s storytelling style, which was appropriately dramatic. I also loved the plot, storyline, and development. The unpredictability and twists worked for me. Siciliana got a standing ovation from me, but Manon and Tziporah were two other powerful women who held the fort. Both women made giant strides, never hesitated, and never missed a beat. Don Rapaci and Fra’Diavulu also kept me at the edge of my seat, regardless of where they stood. I enjoyed the power play, government politics, religious manipulation, and the desperation for power. Carlo Treviso is a talented writer, and this novel deserves a place on our screens.
After Charles of Anjou (Re Carlu) from France vanquished Prince Conradin in 1269, Sicily became a shadow of itself. Re Carlu used his fierce Angevin soldiers to subdue, dominate, and make the lives of Sicilians unbearable. However, seven-year-old Aetna Vespiri and her elder brother, Cicero, enjoyed relative comfort and safety until one day, Aetna’s life came to a grinding halt. The Angevins invaded her home, burnt it to the ground, killed her father, and took Cicero. But she escaped for years and learned to become a stiletto and combat master. The crossover of the Vespers heralded Aetna’s return as a new woman—Siciliana! Siciliana was ruthless, fearless, and on a mission to free Sicily. However, with unlikely allies and an unexpected enemy, will she succeed? Siciliana by Carlo Treviso has the complete details.
Siciliana by Carlo Treviso was an action-packed, suspense-filled, and captivating novel. If you love historical stories with formidable heroines, this is your book! Siciliana exposed me to medieval Sicily between 1269 and 1282, much of which history books do not cover. This novel effortlessly blended fact and fiction using descriptive writing. I enjoyed Carlo’s storytelling style, which was appropriately dramatic. I also loved the plot, storyline, and development. The unpredictability and twists worked for me. Siciliana got a standing ovation from me, but Manon and Tziporah were two other powerful women who held the fort. Both women made giant strides, never hesitated, and never missed a beat. Don Rapaci and Fra’Diavulu also kept me at the edge of my seat, regardless of where they stood. I enjoyed the power play, government politics, religious manipulation, and the desperation for power. Carlo Treviso is a talented writer, and this novel deserves a place on our screens.
Recommend this book:
Legends of Andolin
Adella of the Campos
A M Portman
2023 Silver Medal
401 Pages
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Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Samantha Gregory for Readers' Favorite
Legends of Andolin: Adella of the Campos by A. M. Portman tells the story of a young woman called Adella, who because of her status lives in luxury. But when raiders attack, she flees and ends up in a whirlwind adventure. In a bid to save her brother, Adella teams up with Kol, a mercenary, who is in trouble himself. As they search for her brother, Adella finds herself kidnapped and Kol is the only one who can save her. Their adventures move to the high seas as they both race against time to save the person they care about. A highly entertaining, fast-paced read.
A lot of fantasy books become bogged down with descriptions, especially early on in the plot, but Legends of Andolin: Adella of the Campos flows well. Adella is an interesting character and I cared about her plight. She hasn't faced any real hardship before, but she loves her brother and it drives her to do whatever is necessary to save him. There is a sense of family and loyalty throughout the narrative, which develops well. Although this is book 1 in a series, the author does wrap things up at the end, without leaving the reader wondering what happens next. The story can of course continue further and I would read more in the series when available. I think fantasy fans would really enjoy A. M. Portman's story. I would recommend it.
Legends of Andolin: Adella of the Campos by A. M. Portman tells the story of a young woman called Adella, who because of her status lives in luxury. But when raiders attack, she flees and ends up in a whirlwind adventure. In a bid to save her brother, Adella teams up with Kol, a mercenary, who is in trouble himself. As they search for her brother, Adella finds herself kidnapped and Kol is the only one who can save her. Their adventures move to the high seas as they both race against time to save the person they care about. A highly entertaining, fast-paced read.
A lot of fantasy books become bogged down with descriptions, especially early on in the plot, but Legends of Andolin: Adella of the Campos flows well. Adella is an interesting character and I cared about her plight. She hasn't faced any real hardship before, but she loves her brother and it drives her to do whatever is necessary to save him. There is a sense of family and loyalty throughout the narrative, which develops well. Although this is book 1 in a series, the author does wrap things up at the end, without leaving the reader wondering what happens next. The story can of course continue further and I would read more in the series when available. I think fantasy fans would really enjoy A. M. Portman's story. I would recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Coup de Grâce
Paul L Centeno
2023 Silver Medal
536 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Adventure
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Kaimo de Morté is a trained optometrist but, living in a small town, he has to work in the mines to save money that will fund his planned optical emporium. Living under an emperor who is seen as a god, some revolutionaries fight for political freedom. When Kaimo and the insurgents cross paths and Kaimo rescues a girl from an imperial cargo train, his world changes. He and the girl embark on a quest to find a scholar who can tell her more about the aether in her veins that Lord Cazar wants. On their travels, they encounter countless dangers and suffer betrayal and trauma. Once they reach the insurgents and discover that they are regarded as rebels, there is no turning back. Together with a witty automaton, Kaimo and Zylpha have to face danger, loss, and celebrations of life against the backdrop of a steampunk industrial world filled with automatons and mechanical works of wonder, such as the traveling City Mystwalker and the steam-powered airships. Coup de Grâce by Paul L Centeno is an entertaining and cleverly written work.
In Coup de Grâce, Paul L Centeno delivers a story that is intricate in its plot and crammed full of adventure and danger. Kaimo, the main protagonist, has experiences that change his way of viewing the world. All the characters follow a steep development curve, and the story has you holding your breath and on the edge of your seat. As Kaimo takes on the Imperium to save Zylpha, he has to reconsider his moral values and, in the end, form an alliance that goes against his principles to ensure a future where he and Zylpha can be together. The novel throws a curved ball in the last chapters and offers an unbelievable and brilliant solution to the crisis in the story. As a fan of steampunk, I can recommend this book to all who are in awe of the creativity of authors who create the steampunk worlds and the technology in them.
Kaimo de Morté is a trained optometrist but, living in a small town, he has to work in the mines to save money that will fund his planned optical emporium. Living under an emperor who is seen as a god, some revolutionaries fight for political freedom. When Kaimo and the insurgents cross paths and Kaimo rescues a girl from an imperial cargo train, his world changes. He and the girl embark on a quest to find a scholar who can tell her more about the aether in her veins that Lord Cazar wants. On their travels, they encounter countless dangers and suffer betrayal and trauma. Once they reach the insurgents and discover that they are regarded as rebels, there is no turning back. Together with a witty automaton, Kaimo and Zylpha have to face danger, loss, and celebrations of life against the backdrop of a steampunk industrial world filled with automatons and mechanical works of wonder, such as the traveling City Mystwalker and the steam-powered airships. Coup de Grâce by Paul L Centeno is an entertaining and cleverly written work.
In Coup de Grâce, Paul L Centeno delivers a story that is intricate in its plot and crammed full of adventure and danger. Kaimo, the main protagonist, has experiences that change his way of viewing the world. All the characters follow a steep development curve, and the story has you holding your breath and on the edge of your seat. As Kaimo takes on the Imperium to save Zylpha, he has to reconsider his moral values and, in the end, form an alliance that goes against his principles to ensure a future where he and Zylpha can be together. The novel throws a curved ball in the last chapters and offers an unbelievable and brilliant solution to the crisis in the story. As a fan of steampunk, I can recommend this book to all who are in awe of the creativity of authors who create the steampunk worlds and the technology in them.
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