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Recommend this book:
Dark Bringer
Lord of Everfell Book 1
Kat Ross
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
When Consul Barsal Casolaba is found impaled on the Red House spire in Kota Gelangi, Archangel Gavriel Morningstar is sent to investigate a killing that threatens the balance between witches and angels. His inquiry intersects with Cathrynne Rowan, drawn into the hunt after a miner named Durian Padulski dies following the discovery of a strange gemstone called kaldurite, a stone that repels ley and weakens beings infused with it. As evidence links the gem trade to political power, Gavriel becomes the target of a covert attack that leaves him gravely ill, while Cathrynne uncovers signs of a coordinated effort to control the source of the stone. Their pursuit leads beyond courtrooms and council chambers toward a hidden mine whose contents could alter authority across Sion in Dark Bringer by Kat Ross.
I adore epic fantasy sagas that take the less-traveled road of lithomancy, and Kat Ross absolutely nails it in the first book of the Lord of Everfell series, Dark Bringer. Here, it's kaldurite, a bezoar with a twist. Cathrynne is my favorite champion in the novel, and again Ross shatters the mold in bringing a female to the forefront. She is filled with resolve, even when she's suspended over a gorge. A gorge! She's not given an easy time of it, and one battle totally reshapes her understanding of the Sinn. The world-building is top-notch, with White Fox operatives answering to hidden patrons, Morags directing chapter houses, archangels across provinces, and miners in Pota Pras bartering stones that can topple entire ranks. Ross digs deeper still with cinematic settings, from Kota Gelangi’s Red House dome, the branching tunnels of Clear Creek Mine, and the windswept cliffs of Everfell. Readers who love intricate magical systems, politicking between rival orders, and a cornucopia of fae will find it all here, and I look forward to seeing where book two goes.
When Consul Barsal Casolaba is found impaled on the Red House spire in Kota Gelangi, Archangel Gavriel Morningstar is sent to investigate a killing that threatens the balance between witches and angels. His inquiry intersects with Cathrynne Rowan, drawn into the hunt after a miner named Durian Padulski dies following the discovery of a strange gemstone called kaldurite, a stone that repels ley and weakens beings infused with it. As evidence links the gem trade to political power, Gavriel becomes the target of a covert attack that leaves him gravely ill, while Cathrynne uncovers signs of a coordinated effort to control the source of the stone. Their pursuit leads beyond courtrooms and council chambers toward a hidden mine whose contents could alter authority across Sion in Dark Bringer by Kat Ross.
I adore epic fantasy sagas that take the less-traveled road of lithomancy, and Kat Ross absolutely nails it in the first book of the Lord of Everfell series, Dark Bringer. Here, it's kaldurite, a bezoar with a twist. Cathrynne is my favorite champion in the novel, and again Ross shatters the mold in bringing a female to the forefront. She is filled with resolve, even when she's suspended over a gorge. A gorge! She's not given an easy time of it, and one battle totally reshapes her understanding of the Sinn. The world-building is top-notch, with White Fox operatives answering to hidden patrons, Morags directing chapter houses, archangels across provinces, and miners in Pota Pras bartering stones that can topple entire ranks. Ross digs deeper still with cinematic settings, from Kota Gelangi’s Red House dome, the branching tunnels of Clear Creek Mine, and the windswept cliffs of Everfell. Readers who love intricate magical systems, politicking between rival orders, and a cornucopia of fae will find it all here, and I look forward to seeing where book two goes.
Recommend this book:
. The story centers on Kaleela and her loyal guard-turned-partner, Dimitar, as they navigate the fallout of the first book's war. Kaleela is busy reconnecting with her elven relatives in the Sun’Din Forest, but it is far from a happy reunion. She has s...){kind=link}
In the Name of Pride
Vows & Valor, Book 2
Courtney Collins, Clarke Collins
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
Courtney and Clarke Collins make a grand return with In the Name of Pride: Vows & Valor (Book 2). The story centers on Kaleela and her loyal guard-turned-partner, Dimitar, as they navigate the fallout of the first book's war. Kaleela is busy reconnecting with her elven relatives in the Sun’Din Forest, but it is far from a happy reunion. She has severe guilt over the magic sacrificed to save her life. Just as she is forced to face the man who murdered her in a formal trial, the political situation in the elven capital explodes. A faction of exiled elves, marked by clipped ears, has grown weary of the status quo and decides to seize the throne by force. Now, Kaleela must abandon her role as a passive royal and lead a counter-attack along with her father, King Kahled, and her motley crew of allies. Will Kaleela's struggle for identity and justice be enough to save her people from the rising rebellion?
Courtney and Clarke Collins's In the Name of Pride is a high-stakes epic fantasy that centers on the idea that every action has a heavy price. The plot focuses on the widening rift between humans and elves, creating an atmosphere that feels like a powder keg waiting to ignite. I found the secondary arcs compelling, especially that of Rialyn, the elven captain who serves as a vital sounding board for Kaleela's identity crisis. The romance between Kaleela and Dimitar kept me very engaged in the storyline, adding another layer of personal intrigue against the backdrop of all the political drama taking place. Additionally, the way Dimitar grapples with his own perceived failures adds a unique level of tension to their relationship. On the whole, the narrative development flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story. The escalating hostility between the royal family and the radical exiles created a constant sense of suspense that kept me eagerly turning the pages. This sequel is a must-read if you're already hooked on Kaleela's journey. Recommended.
Courtney and Clarke Collins make a grand return with In the Name of Pride: Vows & Valor (Book 2). The story centers on Kaleela and her loyal guard-turned-partner, Dimitar, as they navigate the fallout of the first book's war. Kaleela is busy reconnecting with her elven relatives in the Sun’Din Forest, but it is far from a happy reunion. She has severe guilt over the magic sacrificed to save her life. Just as she is forced to face the man who murdered her in a formal trial, the political situation in the elven capital explodes. A faction of exiled elves, marked by clipped ears, has grown weary of the status quo and decides to seize the throne by force. Now, Kaleela must abandon her role as a passive royal and lead a counter-attack along with her father, King Kahled, and her motley crew of allies. Will Kaleela's struggle for identity and justice be enough to save her people from the rising rebellion?
Courtney and Clarke Collins's In the Name of Pride is a high-stakes epic fantasy that centers on the idea that every action has a heavy price. The plot focuses on the widening rift between humans and elves, creating an atmosphere that feels like a powder keg waiting to ignite. I found the secondary arcs compelling, especially that of Rialyn, the elven captain who serves as a vital sounding board for Kaleela's identity crisis. The romance between Kaleela and Dimitar kept me very engaged in the storyline, adding another layer of personal intrigue against the backdrop of all the political drama taking place. Additionally, the way Dimitar grapples with his own perceived failures adds a unique level of tension to their relationship. On the whole, the narrative development flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story. The escalating hostility between the royal family and the radical exiles created a constant sense of suspense that kept me eagerly turning the pages. This sequel is a must-read if you're already hooked on Kaleela's journey. Recommended.
Recommend this book:
A Legacy Forged
Bloodlines Legacy
Rose Garcia
2026 Bronze Medal
326 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Rose Garcia’s A Legacy Forged, book three of the Bloodlines Legacy series, follows Avalynn after she falls from the sky and is carried into the Wild North by the dragon Izel. The land strips away her memories, leaving her certain only that her name is Ava and that a dark prince is coming. Alongside two other newcomers, Rien and Axe, she prepares for the Frost-Forged Trials that will make them protectors of the dragons. Far south, Mateo has returned to Stromm Palace under the influence of shadow magic and a dangerous bond with the dragon Teyocel. As rebellion spreads through Faevenly, Ava begins seeing pieces of a life she cannot remember. The prince in her dreams feels strangely familiar, and finding the truth may be the only way to stop him.
Rose Garcia is excellent at making the Wild North feel like a complete society, and the Frost-Forged Trials are a wonderful part of A Legacy Forged. I love the ash ceremony before combat because belonging is important to Ava before she even knows what has been taken from her. The author balances the intensity with organic humor. My favorite is Ava’s friendship with Axe, the grumpy dwarf who says he would sooner kiss a frost toad’s behind than bow to her. Garcia also gives the story real heart through Manny, the human who raised Mateo, the lowborn hunter Ava loves after dark magic makes him the queen’s weapon. Manny believes faith should fight for people, and that belief is part of how he lives. Well written and immersive, readers who enjoy epic fantasy with dragons will adore this.
Rose Garcia’s A Legacy Forged, book three of the Bloodlines Legacy series, follows Avalynn after she falls from the sky and is carried into the Wild North by the dragon Izel. The land strips away her memories, leaving her certain only that her name is Ava and that a dark prince is coming. Alongside two other newcomers, Rien and Axe, she prepares for the Frost-Forged Trials that will make them protectors of the dragons. Far south, Mateo has returned to Stromm Palace under the influence of shadow magic and a dangerous bond with the dragon Teyocel. As rebellion spreads through Faevenly, Ava begins seeing pieces of a life she cannot remember. The prince in her dreams feels strangely familiar, and finding the truth may be the only way to stop him.
Rose Garcia is excellent at making the Wild North feel like a complete society, and the Frost-Forged Trials are a wonderful part of A Legacy Forged. I love the ash ceremony before combat because belonging is important to Ava before she even knows what has been taken from her. The author balances the intensity with organic humor. My favorite is Ava’s friendship with Axe, the grumpy dwarf who says he would sooner kiss a frost toad’s behind than bow to her. Garcia also gives the story real heart through Manny, the human who raised Mateo, the lowborn hunter Ava loves after dark magic makes him the queen’s weapon. Manny believes faith should fight for people, and that belief is part of how he lives. Well written and immersive, readers who enjoy epic fantasy with dragons will adore this.
Recommend this book:
A Vow of Blood and Sap
Whispers of the Flora Book 1
Haley Gallant
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
A Vow of Blood and Sap by Haley Gallant follows Princess Valia’s quest to locate her missing twin brother Niko, prophetically hidden at the Sacred Triant Monastery in the Nelirrhi mountains. After surviving palace politicking, illusions, and threats from draevori, she escapes with Kirin Adante, a skilled guide, and travels across forests, villages, and mountains. Along the way, they evade magic and mythical creatures, from manticores to fallows and fetterbeaks, while Valia hones her floramantic powers and combat skills under Kirin’s guidance. She discovers clues suggesting her sibling survived but that her family was killed, pushing her forward. Whether or not she can make it to the monastery, or what state Nico may be in under the manipulative Leander, could set the stage for a devastating showdown under Leander’s shadow and the approaching Avanian army.
Haley Gallant’s A Vow of Blood and Sap delivers a really well-written, tightly constructed journey, and every step we take along the way feels alive and authentic in Valia’s quest. Her fleeing the palace in disguise kicks off our sense of the power of her floramancy and how she uses it to heal, protect, and make her way through this cinematically imagined, dangerous world. The partnership between Valia and Kirin rests on tenuous trust as they ride together, spar, and strategize, learning to rely on one another despite past wounds and conflicting, often misunderstood motives. From rescuing a child from menacing creatures to evading bounty hunters, the interplay of action, combined with breathtaking landscapes and a brilliant climax, makes this first book in the Whispers of the Flora series a true promise of the wonderful saga to come. Very highly recommended.
A Vow of Blood and Sap by Haley Gallant follows Princess Valia’s quest to locate her missing twin brother Niko, prophetically hidden at the Sacred Triant Monastery in the Nelirrhi mountains. After surviving palace politicking, illusions, and threats from draevori, she escapes with Kirin Adante, a skilled guide, and travels across forests, villages, and mountains. Along the way, they evade magic and mythical creatures, from manticores to fallows and fetterbeaks, while Valia hones her floramantic powers and combat skills under Kirin’s guidance. She discovers clues suggesting her sibling survived but that her family was killed, pushing her forward. Whether or not she can make it to the monastery, or what state Nico may be in under the manipulative Leander, could set the stage for a devastating showdown under Leander’s shadow and the approaching Avanian army.
Haley Gallant’s A Vow of Blood and Sap delivers a really well-written, tightly constructed journey, and every step we take along the way feels alive and authentic in Valia’s quest. Her fleeing the palace in disguise kicks off our sense of the power of her floramancy and how she uses it to heal, protect, and make her way through this cinematically imagined, dangerous world. The partnership between Valia and Kirin rests on tenuous trust as they ride together, spar, and strategize, learning to rely on one another despite past wounds and conflicting, often misunderstood motives. From rescuing a child from menacing creatures to evading bounty hunters, the interplay of action, combined with breathtaking landscapes and a brilliant climax, makes this first book in the Whispers of the Flora series a true promise of the wonderful saga to come. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Empress and Her Wolf
The Saga of Hasting the Avenger Book 5
C.J. Adrien
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
In the fifth book in C.J. Adrien’s Saga of Hasting the Avenger, The Empress and Her Wolf, the Viking anti-hero Hasting and his hardened, oath-bound crew sail deep into the treacherous heart of the Byzantine Empire in the ninth century. Empress Theodora hires Hasting to help recapture the fortress of Serres from Bulgar invaders, but the Norse mercenaries soon find out that their greatest battles are beyond the sword. Swept into the labyrinthine court politics of Constantinople, Hasting must confront deadly assassins, religious factions, and a deepening conspiracy that hits at his own heart. A personal tragedy forces him on a path of vengeance at the same time when a heretical movement known as the Paulicians threatens to destroy the empire from within. Hastings must fight on multiple fronts, including distant lands and the cunning enemies within the walls of the empire.
C.J. Adrien's historical novel is intriguing, featuring pulse-pounding action that makes the book difficult to put down. The first-person narrative voice makes the story intimate, irresistibly drawing the reader into Hasting’s inner world. He is a character in whom I invested a lot of time, enticed by his flaws, his grief, and his desire for revenge. While he is flawed, he can also be tender. Theodora is another fully-drawn character, guarded and possessing the kind of authority that reflects the imperial period. The Empress and Her Wolf is fast-paced and punctuated by relentless action that takes readers from open-field battles to infiltrations through tunnels. The worldbuilding mirrors a meticulous attention to military action and the cultural clash between the Byzantine statecraft and Viking fatalism. The story delivers adventure and explores the cost of power and what it means to serve with loyalty.
In the fifth book in C.J. Adrien’s Saga of Hasting the Avenger, The Empress and Her Wolf, the Viking anti-hero Hasting and his hardened, oath-bound crew sail deep into the treacherous heart of the Byzantine Empire in the ninth century. Empress Theodora hires Hasting to help recapture the fortress of Serres from Bulgar invaders, but the Norse mercenaries soon find out that their greatest battles are beyond the sword. Swept into the labyrinthine court politics of Constantinople, Hasting must confront deadly assassins, religious factions, and a deepening conspiracy that hits at his own heart. A personal tragedy forces him on a path of vengeance at the same time when a heretical movement known as the Paulicians threatens to destroy the empire from within. Hastings must fight on multiple fronts, including distant lands and the cunning enemies within the walls of the empire.
C.J. Adrien's historical novel is intriguing, featuring pulse-pounding action that makes the book difficult to put down. The first-person narrative voice makes the story intimate, irresistibly drawing the reader into Hasting’s inner world. He is a character in whom I invested a lot of time, enticed by his flaws, his grief, and his desire for revenge. While he is flawed, he can also be tender. Theodora is another fully-drawn character, guarded and possessing the kind of authority that reflects the imperial period. The Empress and Her Wolf is fast-paced and punctuated by relentless action that takes readers from open-field battles to infiltrations through tunnels. The worldbuilding mirrors a meticulous attention to military action and the cultural clash between the Byzantine statecraft and Viking fatalism. The story delivers adventure and explores the cost of power and what it means to serve with loyalty.
Recommend this book:
ZADA 5
The Window Splinters
R D Moreno
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In R.D. Moreno’s ZADA 5: The Window Splinters, Connor Balcazar, a newly named duke, works to secure an interplanetary empire led by Empress Christina while Lorenzo rebuilds his power after escaping captivity. He prepares an assault on the capital world of Markus 2 using portal technology that enables direct entry into the palace. Connor digs into stolen research tied to that system and uncovers spies operating in the palace security, realizing that Lorenzo’s plan depends on precise timing and inside access. As the portal begins to behave unpredictably and creates the risk of movement across altered realities, Connor develops a strategy that turns Lorenzo’s own entry point into a controlled space. The operation places Connor in a position where a single error could expose the empire to a takeover, forcing him to act within a narrow window while maintaining control of the situation.
R.D. Moreno’s The Window Splinters is a brilliant continuation of the ZADA 5 series, and I love Moreno's portal rupture angle and the parallel reality. Connor is likeable as someone who puts others ahead despite his own status. After a failed assault nearly costs his team their lives, he hands command to a seasoned officer he trusts, so decisions are made by someone better positioned in the moment. He also returns to the cavern on Zada 5 and keeps working to communicate with Baylen, a dragon he once kept trapped, choosing to respond to it as a living being asking for release. Sam is awesome as an intelligent operative with compassionate resolve, ready to enter guarded sites alone. The author makes the settings work as active parts of each scene. The cavern on Zada 5 becomes a barrier Connor must work across while Baylen pushes against a metal enclosure, and the guarded laboratory on Castia forces infiltration plans to follow patrol movement and restricted entry points. With excellent writing and sophisticated world-building, this is the perfect read for lovers of science fiction centered on interplanetary rule and portal travel across multiple worlds.
In R.D. Moreno’s ZADA 5: The Window Splinters, Connor Balcazar, a newly named duke, works to secure an interplanetary empire led by Empress Christina while Lorenzo rebuilds his power after escaping captivity. He prepares an assault on the capital world of Markus 2 using portal technology that enables direct entry into the palace. Connor digs into stolen research tied to that system and uncovers spies operating in the palace security, realizing that Lorenzo’s plan depends on precise timing and inside access. As the portal begins to behave unpredictably and creates the risk of movement across altered realities, Connor develops a strategy that turns Lorenzo’s own entry point into a controlled space. The operation places Connor in a position where a single error could expose the empire to a takeover, forcing him to act within a narrow window while maintaining control of the situation.
R.D. Moreno’s The Window Splinters is a brilliant continuation of the ZADA 5 series, and I love Moreno's portal rupture angle and the parallel reality. Connor is likeable as someone who puts others ahead despite his own status. After a failed assault nearly costs his team their lives, he hands command to a seasoned officer he trusts, so decisions are made by someone better positioned in the moment. He also returns to the cavern on Zada 5 and keeps working to communicate with Baylen, a dragon he once kept trapped, choosing to respond to it as a living being asking for release. Sam is awesome as an intelligent operative with compassionate resolve, ready to enter guarded sites alone. The author makes the settings work as active parts of each scene. The cavern on Zada 5 becomes a barrier Connor must work across while Baylen pushes against a metal enclosure, and the guarded laboratory on Castia forces infiltration plans to follow patrol movement and restricted entry points. With excellent writing and sophisticated world-building, this is the perfect read for lovers of science fiction centered on interplanetary rule and portal travel across multiple worlds.
Recommend this book:
The Assays of Ata
K.I.S.
2025 Finalist
622 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Assays of Ata by K.I.S. is an epic fantasy novel that follows Ata, a complex hero burdened with the roles of spy, liar, and traitor as she navigates a world of royal intrigue, violent invasions, and precarious alliances. Set in the tumultuous continent of Áitarbith, Ata battles alongside both friends and enemies, questioning loyalties and old relationships while striving for the greater good. As she maneuvers through treacherous courts and brutal warfare, the stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain.
Author K.I.S. crafts a richly detailed and immersive world that I fell into at once with a sense of total wonder. I loved the set-up of a fantasy realm with a rich and well-considered history of war and interpersonal drama. This is a fascinating and convincing blend of intricate political intrigue and epic battle scenes that make for a truly compelling and expansive narrative. Against this rich backdrop that is so passionately described and involved, we then meet the deeply layered and complex Ata, whose up-close narration and emotive dialogue allow readers to connect with her internal struggles and the moral complexities of her decisions as if we were right there struggling with her. She’s a powerful anti-hero figure burdened with some really dark deeds, but the empathy the author treats her with makes her deadly and exciting, but also deeply real and heartfelt as a person struggling for survival like everyone else. The pacing and suspenseful plot twists keep readers engaged, while the exploration of loyalty, love, and survival brings a much-needed emotional depth to the epic fantasy landscape. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Assays of Ata for your next fantasy read.
The Assays of Ata by K.I.S. is an epic fantasy novel that follows Ata, a complex hero burdened with the roles of spy, liar, and traitor as she navigates a world of royal intrigue, violent invasions, and precarious alliances. Set in the tumultuous continent of Áitarbith, Ata battles alongside both friends and enemies, questioning loyalties and old relationships while striving for the greater good. As she maneuvers through treacherous courts and brutal warfare, the stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain.
Author K.I.S. crafts a richly detailed and immersive world that I fell into at once with a sense of total wonder. I loved the set-up of a fantasy realm with a rich and well-considered history of war and interpersonal drama. This is a fascinating and convincing blend of intricate political intrigue and epic battle scenes that make for a truly compelling and expansive narrative. Against this rich backdrop that is so passionately described and involved, we then meet the deeply layered and complex Ata, whose up-close narration and emotive dialogue allow readers to connect with her internal struggles and the moral complexities of her decisions as if we were right there struggling with her. She’s a powerful anti-hero figure burdened with some really dark deeds, but the empathy the author treats her with makes her deadly and exciting, but also deeply real and heartfelt as a person struggling for survival like everyone else. The pacing and suspenseful plot twists keep readers engaged, while the exploration of loyalty, love, and survival brings a much-needed emotional depth to the epic fantasy landscape. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Assays of Ata for your next fantasy read.
Recommend this book:
A Land of Shadows and Moss
The Dandelion Chronicles Book 1
A.S.R. Gelpi
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
A.S.R. Gelpi’s A Land of Shadows and Moss is a captivating opening to The Dandelion Chronicles, a book packed with adventure, an immersive fantasy world, and phenomenal conflict. Set in the Zahari Empire, the story follows twelve-year-old Princess Kharis, a uniquely young Djinnshirukh burdened with the volatile essence of a fire-demon king. She has the unique gift of housing a fire demon, which was never given to one so young. Her sister, Saya, acts as a shield, helping her control the power of her magic. While Prince Rawiri guides the sisters, a Zahari general who covets Kharis's power might spell doom. Can Kharis contain the power within her, or will she unleash it and see everything burn to ashes?
A Land of Shadows and Moss is original in almost everything—the concept that drives the conflict, the world-building, the characters, and the plot points. The characters are spectacular, especially Kharis, wrestling with the duality of her powers and the grim fate they herald—madness or execution. A.S.R. Gelpi deftly explores her internal struggles, particularly through her relationships with her warm-hearted sister Saya and Prince Rawiri. Their dynamic is a highlight, grounding Kharis's tumultuous journey and offering moments of calm amidst the dark turn of events. The novel excels at presenting moral dilemmas, especially as Kharis struggles with her anger and burgeoning powers that threaten to harm those she loves. The world-building is meticulous as the author introduces readers to powerful magic, incredible creatures, and unforgettable characters. The prose is a delight punctuated by dazzling dialogues and descriptive passages that evoke compelling imagery. It is a beautiful treat for fans of fantasy.
A.S.R. Gelpi’s A Land of Shadows and Moss is a captivating opening to The Dandelion Chronicles, a book packed with adventure, an immersive fantasy world, and phenomenal conflict. Set in the Zahari Empire, the story follows twelve-year-old Princess Kharis, a uniquely young Djinnshirukh burdened with the volatile essence of a fire-demon king. She has the unique gift of housing a fire demon, which was never given to one so young. Her sister, Saya, acts as a shield, helping her control the power of her magic. While Prince Rawiri guides the sisters, a Zahari general who covets Kharis's power might spell doom. Can Kharis contain the power within her, or will she unleash it and see everything burn to ashes?
A Land of Shadows and Moss is original in almost everything—the concept that drives the conflict, the world-building, the characters, and the plot points. The characters are spectacular, especially Kharis, wrestling with the duality of her powers and the grim fate they herald—madness or execution. A.S.R. Gelpi deftly explores her internal struggles, particularly through her relationships with her warm-hearted sister Saya and Prince Rawiri. Their dynamic is a highlight, grounding Kharis's tumultuous journey and offering moments of calm amidst the dark turn of events. The novel excels at presenting moral dilemmas, especially as Kharis struggles with her anger and burgeoning powers that threaten to harm those she loves. The world-building is meticulous as the author introduces readers to powerful magic, incredible creatures, and unforgettable characters. The prose is a delight punctuated by dazzling dialogues and descriptive passages that evoke compelling imagery. It is a beautiful treat for fans of fantasy.
Recommend this book:
Children of Madness
Jarrett Brandon Early
2025 Bronze Medal
684 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Children of Madness by Jarrett Brandon Early presents a haunting and innovative epic fantasy that defies traditional genre boundaries. Set in the toxic, forgotten town known as the Stenches, the novel follows the Sour Flower Gang on a dangerous quest to locate the mythical Snail-Gods and potentially save their people from the oppressive Gloomtide. Early creates a world that is simultaneously alien and deeply familiar, exploring profound themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the precarious balance between salvation and destruction. The narrative goes beyond simple adventure, inviting readers to question the nature of heroism, belief, and survival in a world that seems fundamentally broken. Through intricate world-building and complex character dynamics, Early crafts a narrative that challenges readers' perceptions of traditional fantasy storytelling.
Author Jarrett Brandon Early demonstrates an extraordinary approach to world-building that pushes the boundaries of epic fantasy. I was immediately captivated by the way he creates a universe that feels both imaginative and uncomfortably plausible, blending detailed fantastical elements with moments of deep philosophy. The Sour Flower Gang is a suitably complex ensemble of characters to go through this journey, and their emotional plot arcs add depth to the narrative. Early's prose is particularly remarkable when discussing characters and their emotions, managing to be both poetic and grounded in real feeling, which allows readers to become fully immersed in this challenging and mysterious world. His ability to navigate the delicate line between epic storytelling and intimate character exploration makes this novel a truly standout work in the fantasy genre. Overall, I enthusiastically recommend Children of Madness as a groundbreaking and thought-provoking literary novel.
Children of Madness by Jarrett Brandon Early presents a haunting and innovative epic fantasy that defies traditional genre boundaries. Set in the toxic, forgotten town known as the Stenches, the novel follows the Sour Flower Gang on a dangerous quest to locate the mythical Snail-Gods and potentially save their people from the oppressive Gloomtide. Early creates a world that is simultaneously alien and deeply familiar, exploring profound themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the precarious balance between salvation and destruction. The narrative goes beyond simple adventure, inviting readers to question the nature of heroism, belief, and survival in a world that seems fundamentally broken. Through intricate world-building and complex character dynamics, Early crafts a narrative that challenges readers' perceptions of traditional fantasy storytelling.
Author Jarrett Brandon Early demonstrates an extraordinary approach to world-building that pushes the boundaries of epic fantasy. I was immediately captivated by the way he creates a universe that feels both imaginative and uncomfortably plausible, blending detailed fantastical elements with moments of deep philosophy. The Sour Flower Gang is a suitably complex ensemble of characters to go through this journey, and their emotional plot arcs add depth to the narrative. Early's prose is particularly remarkable when discussing characters and their emotions, managing to be both poetic and grounded in real feeling, which allows readers to become fully immersed in this challenging and mysterious world. His ability to navigate the delicate line between epic storytelling and intimate character exploration makes this novel a truly standout work in the fantasy genre. Overall, I enthusiastically recommend Children of Madness as a groundbreaking and thought-provoking literary novel.
Recommend this book:
Truth in Blue
All That Matters Book 1
Mirai Amell
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite
Mirai Amell brings us epic fantasy in Truth in Blue. Una aspires to be a King’s Knight and has decided to embark on a journey to the palace. She possesses Mover magic and chooses not to be confined to construction duties for the rest of her life. Ciaran, a King’s Knight and best friend of Prince Malakai, decides to rescue the prince from the prison where he has been sent. Malakai, stripped of his magic yet somehow still alive, is in Lascerus and needs to escape. Amaryllis, the fae queen of the Mesmers, finds herself in the human world, searching for a lost relic that could lead to the total destruction of all the realms if it falls into the wrong hands. When their paths converge, Una finds herself with memories of a man she has never met.
Author Mirai Amell has crafted a world with a new set of rules for magic. In this first book of the All That Matters series, she skillfully lays the groundwork for an epic battle of good versus evil. With strong female protagonists, this story promises readers a rollercoaster of emotions. Vivid scenery and well-choreographed battle scenes will keep you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is steady, encouraging you to turn page after page to find out what happens next. Even with mentions of some sexual situations as well as death, this book is suitable for young adult readers. Truth in Blue is the beginning of a fantasy saga that will make you ponder more than just magic.
Mirai Amell brings us epic fantasy in Truth in Blue. Una aspires to be a King’s Knight and has decided to embark on a journey to the palace. She possesses Mover magic and chooses not to be confined to construction duties for the rest of her life. Ciaran, a King’s Knight and best friend of Prince Malakai, decides to rescue the prince from the prison where he has been sent. Malakai, stripped of his magic yet somehow still alive, is in Lascerus and needs to escape. Amaryllis, the fae queen of the Mesmers, finds herself in the human world, searching for a lost relic that could lead to the total destruction of all the realms if it falls into the wrong hands. When their paths converge, Una finds herself with memories of a man she has never met.
Author Mirai Amell has crafted a world with a new set of rules for magic. In this first book of the All That Matters series, she skillfully lays the groundwork for an epic battle of good versus evil. With strong female protagonists, this story promises readers a rollercoaster of emotions. Vivid scenery and well-choreographed battle scenes will keep you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is steady, encouraging you to turn page after page to find out what happens next. Even with mentions of some sexual situations as well as death, this book is suitable for young adult readers. Truth in Blue is the beginning of a fantasy saga that will make you ponder more than just magic.
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