Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Avhi’s Flight is a work of personal dramatic fiction on inspiring themes penned by author Janet Johnson Anderson. Set against the incredible backdrop of the Nepalese countryside, our story follows the adventures of title character Avhi as she struggles against a culture that continues to disregard and devalue its women and girls. When Avhi flees from a proposed marriage in a truly brutal fashion, the fourteen-year-old finds that there are many more girls out there who, like her, desire so much more from their lives than that which their culture expects and forces upon them. What results is an eye-opening personal account of many lives in common, and a tale of empowerment that is sure to spark dialogue.

Author Janet Johnson Anderson sets a clear focus on very important issues throughout her book: women’s rights, independence, awareness, empowerment, and understanding of the plight of Avhi and so many others like her. Yet the book doesn’t feel like a lecture, but an intimate portrayal of real difficulty in a fictionalized form. Avhi is a relatable young woman with plenty of heart and potential for a bright future, and by engaging with her on a deeper level, readers are introduced to the barricades that make it impossible for her to achieve more. The atmospheric depiction of this character-led tale showcases the variety of hardships, giving them compelling dialogue and unique development through Anderson’s superb characterization skills. Overall, Avhi’s Flight is an intriguing and engaging piece of fiction which also begets important considerations for real-world issues.

Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite

Carrie Kabak’s Shibby Magee unfolds in two timelines, following the identical twins Isabelle “Shibby” and Isadorah “Dorah” Magee, who are like chalk and cheese. The story starts in the 1970s when the kids are abandoned by their Traveler mother, Vera Coffey. They are raised by their bigoted grandma, Nanna Magee, at the fading Gilligan’s Bakery together with Benny, their cloistered father, and Alice, the family housekeeper. At forty-five, Shibby is working as a chef in Galway when she impulsively marries Povey O’Brien and then finds out that he is a bigamist and an abuser. When she flees back to Burren Droma, she makes a devastating discovery about her father. Will she be able to choose a man who doesn’t abuse her or be forced into the same cycle of toxicity and ruin?

Carrie Kabak’s novel presents a tangled plot and complex characters. Shibby’s impulsiveness is raw, skillfully factored into the bad decisions she makes; she is a heroine who is broken in many ways, and her romantic gullibility matches her mother’s self-destructive patterns. Dorah is the pragmatic, sharp ballast, the opposite of Shibby. Ireland is finely drawn with details of the yeasty heat of Gilligan’s Bakery, the marginal Traveler camps, and the wind-swept, craggy cliffs of Burren Droma. Shibby Magee offers a family portrait tainted with secrets and decades of sacrifice and shame, clerical abuse, and blackmail. Writing about inherited trauma, this author's exploration of identity and the settled-Traveler divide illuminates the story. The first-person narrative voice gives weight to the characters, while the dialogue crackles with authentic Irish slang that reflects culture and place. The prose is filled with sensory details, from the smell of fish and seaweed to the buttery smell of caraway seed cake. This is a delightful read.

Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite

K. M. Cookie’s Song of Hummingbird Highway starts when Terri, a music lover, gets rid of her boyfriend. She refuses to shed a tear and cannot imagine that one impulsive night at a Santa Monica reggae club will change her life. Enter Reynold, a beguilingly attractive Belizean guitarist who wastes no time in proposing. The whirlwind romance sweeps her from Michigan to Nine Night ceremonies. Terri considers herself happily married until she realizes that Reynold's charm has concealed his infidelity and a final betrayal. When her son is kidnapped, she is propelled through a category four hurricane and into places where sacrifice, love, and ancestral magic collide with her awakening.

In K. M. Cookie’s novel, the character work is incredible. Terri is not just complex; she is flawed and searching for herself, the kind of relatable character who reminds most women of the choices they once made that drained them. Reynold is a manipulative person who infuriates and seduces in turn. You will love Penelope, a nun in her former life who now wields a shotgun, dispenses wisdom, and fills the dialogue with the mirth of friendship. The pacing is measured, and the tension and suspense keep the pages turning, built around suspicion and courtship. Song of Hummingbird Highway is descriptive and exquisite, with imagery that rouses the imagination. The result is an emotionally captivating journey that is a song you hear even after the last page, and a woman you will believe when she says: “I am a rare bird.”

Reviewed by Keana Sackett-Moomey for Readers' Favorite

Achak of the Sequoia Tribe by Alex Coppin tells the story of a boy coming of age in an indigenous Native American tribe, right before outside forces began to alter their world. Achak is at the age where he has to prove he’s a man. With his father's guidance, Achak begins his spirit walk, learning to trust himself, pay attention to his dreams, and practice everything his tribe has taught him. Early on, the wilderness puts him to the test, challenging both his courage and his bond with the land. Later, while on guard duty, a dangerous animal attacks him, and he survives, earning recognition from his fellow tribe members. At the same time, white settlers are starting to threaten the tribe, which makes Achak's growth more pressing. He must learn the value of solidarity and accept his place in this changing world. Can he rise to be the leader his tribe needs?

Achak of the Sequoia Tribe by Alex Coppin allows readers to see Achak make mistakes, doubt himself, and learn as he progresses. I really love that the father-son relationship between Dynami and Achak grows through sincere actions—not superficial conversations. The book offers a clear sense of daily life in the tribe, from camp routines to hunting, and it is evident that the author did careful research when it came to these details. The story slows down in some chapters, but that actually makes Achak’s world seem more real. Beyond the physical challenges, he also struggles internally, experiences social pressure within his tribe, has trouble understanding his dreams, and faces threats from white settlers. All of this makes his growth feel genuine—it really shows that becoming an adult is about courage and standing up for your community. Overall, this is an engaging tale that I highly recommend.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Desert Bold by Gin Coleman brings the sweeping Desert Born saga to its breathtaking conclusion. We’re reunited with Kira Fontaine, and we find her wounded, determined, and haunted by more than just the Arabian sands she has survived. As she continues her quest to return home, Kira finds herself drawn again to Sheik Jalil, the enigmatic rescuer whose life intertwines with hers through a legacy medallion, a family secret, and a shared destiny. With threats still looming and secrets buried deep in desert ruins, Kira must protect what she holds most dear: a hidden valley, a mystical stallion, and a truth that could upend everything. Torn between the pull of her American past and a new place in Jalil’s world, Kira must decide where her heart and her courage truly belong. Full of romance, danger, and discovery, Desert Bold is a stirring finale of love, legacy, and the search for home.

Author Gin Coleman offers readers a richly detailed romance wrapped in mystery and myth at every turn. There are plenty of new surprises for a series in full flow, but the central point of interest is certainly Kira’s journey to see if her heart is leading her into yet more danger, or at last to her destiny. Her chemistry with Jalil leaps off the pages in this dramatic, heartfelt conclusion. The dynamic dialogue crosses cultural boundaries and finds common ground with wonderful clashes of energy and attitude for the sparks to truly fly. With immersive descriptions to set the mood, Coleman's prose evokes both the majesty and menace of the desert, and all this makes for an unforgettable finale that rewards every thread laid down in Desert Brave. Overall, Desert Bold is a highly recommended read, and I’d also recommend the series as a whole for fans of action-packed thrillers.

Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

Mother of Red Mountains by Apple An is a compelling story set in 20th-century China that follows Jun, a young girl who faces a series of tragedies that profoundly change her life. She loses her father, who did not see the importance of education; her mother dies of a broken heart; and one of her brothers leaves the family after the death of his wife. Despite these setbacks, Jun pursues a career in engineering, becoming one of the top students and eventually landing a good job. Jun meets Binkai, a promising young man, she marries him despite his family's objections regarding her career and lack of domestic skills. Together, they have two beautiful daughters, and the couple struggles to raise them as they find it challenging to balance work and household duties. Eventually, they send the girls to live with their grandparents. However, during the communist Cultural Revolution, the family faces attacks due to Binkai's family's capitalist past, which traumatizes Jun and her daughters.

Mother of Red Mountains is a memorable and moving tale that addresses various issues affecting women. Although the characters are fictional, the story is based on real events that impacted the people of China during the communist revolution. Jun's struggle to balance her career and family life is relatable, particularly for many working mothers. I admire her determination to become an engineer in an era when women were often expected just to bear children and manage the household. Her love for her children as a mother is also commendable. Apple An skillfully explores themes of societal prejudices, traditional family dynamics, romantic and sibling relationships, and unplanned pregnancy. What makes this book stand out is its focus on a woman's life, as most historical novels tend to depict men's experiences. The book includes questions at the end that encourage readers to reflect on the themes presented. Overall, this is an excellent read with a thought-provoking plot and a powerful message about resilience and empowerment.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Olive Grove by Deborah Rohan is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of one Palestinian family’s journey through love, loss, and displacement across the twentieth century. Hamzi Moghrabi is a young boy growing up in the coastal city of Akka in 1913, whose life is soon shaped by the cascading effects of colonial rule, global war, and growing political strife. As the family’s once-thriving community is fractured by conflict and they are forced into exile, their ancestral olive groves become both a memory and a symbol of resilience. Spanning generations, this novel chronicles the enduring strength of a family determined to preserve their identity and history against overwhelming odds.

Author Deborah Rohan has an innate sense of character, and that comes through in every descriptive moment and the powerful dialogue and narration aspects of the story. What makes this book so powerful is its deeply personal lens focused on a history too often told through politics alone. Rohan brings the story to life with sensory detail and emotional nuance, portraying Hamzi and his descendants not just as survivors but as keepers of memory, love, and land. The novel is grounded in real testimonies, which lends an authenticity that feels both intimate and sweeping. It is a story of dignity, family, and home, written with quiet compassion and lasting impact. Overall, The Olive Grove is a moving and necessary novel that honors the human stories behind history’s headlines, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves stories of cultural roots and long-spanning personal histories.

Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

Becoming Mariella by Janet Constantino is a heartwarming story about Mariella Russo, a young woman from Sicily eager to find her path and break free from her family's expectations. She feels the weight of her mother Yolanda's dreams, who is excited at the thought of Mariella marrying Matteo, a charming young man from a well-respected, wealthy family. It’s a journey of self-discovery, love, and the struggle to find one’s voice amid family traditions. Torn between her love for Matteo and her fear of losing her independence, Mariella rebels against her family’s wishes. She escapes to San Francisco, where she finds herself in a whirlwind of new experiences, friendships, and love that force her to redefine her identity and confront her fears. As Mariella navigates her relationships with her mother and Matteo, she embarks on a heartfelt journey filled with love, personal freedom, and the strong bonds of family. She grows and discovers more about herself, learning to balance her dreams with her roots and the people she loves most.

I absolutely loved Becoming Mariella. It’s such a captivating and emotional story that tackles the tough balance between family loyalty and finding your path. Mariella's struggles felt real and relatable, and I was impressed with how the author brought her inner conflicts to life. The pacing was just right, mixing those intense, reflective moments with exciting twists in her journey, which kept me hooked the whole time. The characters, particularly Mariella and her mother, are well-developed, with each interaction revealing layers of cultural and generational tension. Mariella’s evolving relationship with Matteo adds an emotional complexity that enriches the narrative, showing love as both a comfort and a challenge to her dreams. The themes of identity, family expectations, and the quest for self really shine in this book, making it a journey that feels personal yet relatable. The author has a wonderful way of bringing both Sicily and San Francisco to life with such vibrant detail, making the settings just as engaging as the characters. Becoming Mariella is a touching and thought-provoking read that had me reflecting on the beautiful balance between who we are and our roots. You might just find it as inspiring as I did.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Desert Brave by Gin Coleman is a women’s fiction novel that follows Kira Fontaine, who arrives in Arabia with a single mission: to find a legendary lost river. Her plans take a dramatic turn when her plane crashes, leaving her stranded in the vast desert. Drawing on her Native American heritage and faith, Kira embarks on a perilous journey for survival. Along the way, she rescues a mythical golden horse and uncovers an ancient mystery in a hidden valley. As she navigates treachery, murder, and love, Kira must decide whether to find her way home or become part of the desert.

Author Gin Coleman expertly blends adventure with rich cultural detail and emotional depth, creating a story that is both thrilling and educational. I loved the natural way that we learn about Kira’s heritage through her whole ethos and way of viewing the world, with a beautifully up-close narrative that shows her every thought and feeling. The author’s vivid and sensory descriptions of the Arabian desert immerse readers in the harsh yet mystical landscape, enhancing the novel’s sense of adventure by letting us feel the moments of struggle and wonder that Kira goes through. She’s also highly resilient and resourceful as a heroine, and this warmth and confidence is carried through into the narrative voice and command of the plot, making readers feel that they’re in safe hands from cover to cover with an inspiring tale of adventure and bravery. The intricate storyline is well-paced and filled with mystery, danger, and romance, keeping readers engaged until the highly satisfying conclusion. Overall, Desert Brave is a must-read for fans of moving personal journeys of discovery, nature, and survival.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

To Do Justice is a work of fiction in the recent historical, cultural issues, and slice-of-life genres, and is the final novel in the Chicago Trilogy penned by author Frank S. Joseph. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Set against the backdrop of the 1965-66 Chicago race riots, the story follows Pinkie, a biracial orphan from Chicago’s harshest streets, and Mollie, a white Associated Press reporter. Together, they embark on a journey to discover the identity of Pinkie’s birth mother while navigating the racial turmoil and corruption of the era. Through their quest, they aim to achieve both a personal breakthrough and a Pulitzer-worthy story, set amid Martin Luther King Jr.'s fair housing campaign and the city's social unrest.

Author Frank S. Joseph uses research, context, and detail to craft a powerful and immersive novel that brings the racial tensions and social complexities of 1960s Chicago vividly to life. The portrayal of Pinkie, a vulnerable yet resilient young girl, juxtaposed with Mollie’s determination to uncover the truth, created a compelling narrative that was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I was impressed with the narrative detail around their attitudes, speech, and thought presentation. I felt a deep empathy for Pinkie as she navigated the dangers of the streets and the uncertainty of her identity, while Mollie’s journalistic drive offered much-needed urgency and moral questioning in the story. There’s a clear purpose in the confident storytelling style and so much nuance to think about along the way. The historical context of the Chicago race riots and Martin Luther King Jr.'s campaign provided a poignant backdrop that connects readers to contemporary struggles for racial justice. Joseph’s ability to weave personal stories with broader social themes left me thinking about the enduring impact of past conflicts on today’s society and the importance of pursuing truth in the face of adversity. A powerful lesson indeed from a very entertaining and worthwhile read. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend To Do Justice to readers everywhere.