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Recommend this book:
The Assays of Ata
K.I.S.
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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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.
Recommend this book:
Imperatora
Book One
Mia Zbikowski
2025 Silver Medal
408 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Imperatora by Mia Zbikowski follows three women, Ell, Hellion, and Desde, as they find themselves unwillingly bound together in a fight for survival. Having been torn from their normal lives, these three women are thrust into the unforgiving embrace of a desert kingdom where danger lurks in every shadow. With each one of them having their own burdens to bear, they realize they will have to work together and rely on one another to survive.
Imperatora by Mia Zbikowski is a wonderful novel that embraces the strength and resilience of three women who find themselves in a strange world with no one but each other for support. What I loved about this book is the fact that not only does it have an all-female main cast but it explores various aspects of feminine strength. Each character is unique and so different from the others, and you get to see them develop not only individually but together. I honestly think Zbikowski has created a masterpiece in this novel. The world-building and stunning descriptions bring the world of Al’idris to life. The supporting characters in the novel also add so much more depth to the overall story and you can’t help but get attached to them. My favorite character though would have to be Hellion. Seeing her internal struggles and watching her overcome them was inspiring. Overall, Imperatora is such a good book that I struggled to stop reading once I got into it. I would highly recommend this book to any fan of fantasy novels.
Imperatora by Mia Zbikowski follows three women, Ell, Hellion, and Desde, as they find themselves unwillingly bound together in a fight for survival. Having been torn from their normal lives, these three women are thrust into the unforgiving embrace of a desert kingdom where danger lurks in every shadow. With each one of them having their own burdens to bear, they realize they will have to work together and rely on one another to survive.
Imperatora by Mia Zbikowski is a wonderful novel that embraces the strength and resilience of three women who find themselves in a strange world with no one but each other for support. What I loved about this book is the fact that not only does it have an all-female main cast but it explores various aspects of feminine strength. Each character is unique and so different from the others, and you get to see them develop not only individually but together. I honestly think Zbikowski has created a masterpiece in this novel. The world-building and stunning descriptions bring the world of Al’idris to life. The supporting characters in the novel also add so much more depth to the overall story and you can’t help but get attached to them. My favorite character though would have to be Hellion. Seeing her internal struggles and watching her overcome them was inspiring. Overall, Imperatora is such a good book that I struggled to stop reading once I got into it. I would highly recommend this book to any fan of fantasy novels.
Recommend this book:
Sword of the Fallen
G J Ogden
2025 Silver Medal
544 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sword of the Fallen by G J Ogden is an action-packed fantasy where humans and dragons are barely holding onto peace, and Sir Torin Cadwell, the illegitimate son of a ruthless king, is caught up in something much bigger than himself. When the ancient dragon Kyhrax sets out for revenge and a powerful relic goes missing from Dun Morlaig, Torin is thrown into a dangerous mission to stop the kingdom from falling apart. The story is full of political drama, tough choices, and the ever-present tension between humans and dragons, all set in a richly detailed world where past betrayals still cast a long shadow.
G J Ogden knows how to mix classic fantasy with strong characters, making this world come alive and the stakes feel real. The way he builds up the dragon lore is fresh and exciting compared to similar stories, and Torin’s inner struggles make him an easy character to root for as the danger ramps up. He’s not a perfect hero at all, but his flaws and vulnerabilities make his journey even more gripping. The battles are fast-paced and intense, but what really stands out is how they also carry emotional weight so readers feel like they have a personal stake in them. Themes of redemption and destiny play a large role but never feel overdone or predictable. What I loved most was how even the quiet moments had meaning, making the whole story feel grand and personal at the same time. Overall, Sword of the Fallen is a must-read for fantasy fans who love great characters and thrilling adventures and I definitely recommend it.
Sword of the Fallen by G J Ogden is an action-packed fantasy where humans and dragons are barely holding onto peace, and Sir Torin Cadwell, the illegitimate son of a ruthless king, is caught up in something much bigger than himself. When the ancient dragon Kyhrax sets out for revenge and a powerful relic goes missing from Dun Morlaig, Torin is thrown into a dangerous mission to stop the kingdom from falling apart. The story is full of political drama, tough choices, and the ever-present tension between humans and dragons, all set in a richly detailed world where past betrayals still cast a long shadow.
G J Ogden knows how to mix classic fantasy with strong characters, making this world come alive and the stakes feel real. The way he builds up the dragon lore is fresh and exciting compared to similar stories, and Torin’s inner struggles make him an easy character to root for as the danger ramps up. He’s not a perfect hero at all, but his flaws and vulnerabilities make his journey even more gripping. The battles are fast-paced and intense, but what really stands out is how they also carry emotional weight so readers feel like they have a personal stake in them. Themes of redemption and destiny play a large role but never feel overdone or predictable. What I loved most was how even the quiet moments had meaning, making the whole story feel grand and personal at the same time. Overall, Sword of the Fallen is a must-read for fantasy fans who love great characters and thrilling adventures and I definitely recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Godfrey's Crusade
The Griffin Legends Book 1
Mark Howard
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Godfrey’s Crusade by Mark Howard is an epic fantasy with unforgettable characters and a twisty plot. Young knight Godfrey de Bastogne answers the call to save the Kingdom of Azgald from the dark forces of High Warlord Alvir and the nefarious High Witch Nera. Driven by his idealism and a vision sent by the gods, Godfrey embarks on a daring crusade fraught with danger. But the actual battle lies not against savage clans or mythical beasts, but within the ranks of his crusaders, whose ambitions threaten the quest's success. Accompanied by loyal friends and his love interest, Madeline, who guards the secret of her magical powers, Godfrey must navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. As the fate of Azgald hangs in the balance, will he unite his allies or fall prey to their ambitions?
Mark Howard's Godfrey’s Crusade features a multifaceted world where the clash of noble houses, political intrigue, and darker supernatural elements thrive. The kingdoms of Lortharain and Azgald reflect a society steeped in chivalry, duty, and the struggle against malevolence, much of which is exemplified in Godfrey de Bastogne’s journey. He evolves from a naive squire longing for glory into a tempered knight shaped by loss and the harsh realities of combat. The vivid conflict between external battles and internal struggles propels Godfrey’s arc forward as he grapples with his identity. This world is where bravery and magic coexist alongside mythical characters like orcs. The setting—characterized by ominous swamps, looming castles, and bustling towns—offers a compelling backdrop, influencing the characters’ choices and the plot’s progression. The atmosphere is tense as Godfrey confronts increasing threats from orcs and dark magic, culminating in a call to heroism. It is a well-plotted, fast-paced, and suspenseful medieval fantasy that ticks all the boxes in this genre.
Godfrey’s Crusade by Mark Howard is an epic fantasy with unforgettable characters and a twisty plot. Young knight Godfrey de Bastogne answers the call to save the Kingdom of Azgald from the dark forces of High Warlord Alvir and the nefarious High Witch Nera. Driven by his idealism and a vision sent by the gods, Godfrey embarks on a daring crusade fraught with danger. But the actual battle lies not against savage clans or mythical beasts, but within the ranks of his crusaders, whose ambitions threaten the quest's success. Accompanied by loyal friends and his love interest, Madeline, who guards the secret of her magical powers, Godfrey must navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. As the fate of Azgald hangs in the balance, will he unite his allies or fall prey to their ambitions?
Mark Howard's Godfrey’s Crusade features a multifaceted world where the clash of noble houses, political intrigue, and darker supernatural elements thrive. The kingdoms of Lortharain and Azgald reflect a society steeped in chivalry, duty, and the struggle against malevolence, much of which is exemplified in Godfrey de Bastogne’s journey. He evolves from a naive squire longing for glory into a tempered knight shaped by loss and the harsh realities of combat. The vivid conflict between external battles and internal struggles propels Godfrey’s arc forward as he grapples with his identity. This world is where bravery and magic coexist alongside mythical characters like orcs. The setting—characterized by ominous swamps, looming castles, and bustling towns—offers a compelling backdrop, influencing the characters’ choices and the plot’s progression. The atmosphere is tense as Godfrey confronts increasing threats from orcs and dark magic, culminating in a call to heroism. It is a well-plotted, fast-paced, and suspenseful medieval fantasy that ticks all the boxes in this genre.
Recommend this book:
The High Seer
Darkling Souls One
Alex Bree
2024 Finalist
564 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The High Seer is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, romance, and epic adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Darkling Souls series. The work is suitable for older teen and adult reading audiences. Penned by Alex Bree, this enchanting story follows High Seer Aurienne, who finds herself plagued by visions of an impending apocalyptic war. When blacksmith Theo saves her life, Aurienne sees his destiny to unite the continent's warring nations against the invaders. As they navigate assassination attempts and betrayal, Aurienne and Theo must rally allies and confront the corrupting magic threatening their world. Theo, driven by his love for Aurienne, assembles an army of rebels but faces the dilemma of whether to unleash dark forces to combat the conquering emperor and his army. The story explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy as the characters grapple with moral choices in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Author Alex Bree has crafted a stylish and atmospheric work that successfully brings together elements of fantasy and prophecy, creating a richly imagined setting filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas. The dynamic between Aurienne and Theo drives the narrative forward, their relationship evolving against the backdrop of impending doom with some stellar dialogue choices and attitudes that are authentically developed by their surroundings and different life experiences. The exploration of magic, power, and the consequences of wielding both challenges readers to question the nature of heroism, which turns the fantasy genre on its head to deliver something thought-provoking and original. I also absolutely fell in love with the settings and the vivid descriptive skill that Bree brings to the tale, offering a captivating experience and immersing me in a world where monsters are both saviors and threats. Overall, The High Seer is a compelling tale of adventure, love, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
The High Seer is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, romance, and epic adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Darkling Souls series. The work is suitable for older teen and adult reading audiences. Penned by Alex Bree, this enchanting story follows High Seer Aurienne, who finds herself plagued by visions of an impending apocalyptic war. When blacksmith Theo saves her life, Aurienne sees his destiny to unite the continent's warring nations against the invaders. As they navigate assassination attempts and betrayal, Aurienne and Theo must rally allies and confront the corrupting magic threatening their world. Theo, driven by his love for Aurienne, assembles an army of rebels but faces the dilemma of whether to unleash dark forces to combat the conquering emperor and his army. The story explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy as the characters grapple with moral choices in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Author Alex Bree has crafted a stylish and atmospheric work that successfully brings together elements of fantasy and prophecy, creating a richly imagined setting filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas. The dynamic between Aurienne and Theo drives the narrative forward, their relationship evolving against the backdrop of impending doom with some stellar dialogue choices and attitudes that are authentically developed by their surroundings and different life experiences. The exploration of magic, power, and the consequences of wielding both challenges readers to question the nature of heroism, which turns the fantasy genre on its head to deliver something thought-provoking and original. I also absolutely fell in love with the settings and the vivid descriptive skill that Bree brings to the tale, offering a captivating experience and immersing me in a world where monsters are both saviors and threats. Overall, The High Seer is a compelling tale of adventure, love, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
Recommend this book:
The Last Ranger
Ranger of the Titan Wilds, Book 1
J.D.L. Rosell
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Last Ranger is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, explicit language, and some complex racial themes. Penned by author J.D.L. Rosell, we are introduced to Leiyn ‘Firebrand,’ a skilled ranger of the Titan Wilds, who faces betrayal and tragedy when her lodge is attacked. Vowing vengeance for her fallen comrades, Leiyn discovers an innate power within her, a force she must embrace to fulfill her duty. As she navigates a world threatened by colossal spirit creatures called titans, Leiyn's journey becomes an epic tale of resilience, magic, and the weight of duty. The story weaves themes of friendship, vengeance, and wonder, creating a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world.
Author J.D.L. Rosell has crafted an immersive experience into a world of magic and danger, with accomplished storytelling that brings Leiyn's character to life. The narrative is filled with detailed worldbuilding and atmospheric touches to set the emotional mood, and the pacing unfolds with a perfect blend of all-out action and quieter emotional scenes. The concept of titans and the mystical powers Leiyn possesses adds a lot of intrigue and unpredictability to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy, where familiar concepts are given a unique new twist. The inclusion of original illustrations by artist Félix Ortiz enhances the visual experience, providing a vivid and gorgeous portrayal of the characters and their adventures to awaken the imagination. Overall, this first book in the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series promises a thrilling journey for those who enjoy tales of rangers, magic, and the enduring spirit of heroes, and I would highly recommend The Last Ranger for epic fantasy fans everywhere.
The Last Ranger is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, explicit language, and some complex racial themes. Penned by author J.D.L. Rosell, we are introduced to Leiyn ‘Firebrand,’ a skilled ranger of the Titan Wilds, who faces betrayal and tragedy when her lodge is attacked. Vowing vengeance for her fallen comrades, Leiyn discovers an innate power within her, a force she must embrace to fulfill her duty. As she navigates a world threatened by colossal spirit creatures called titans, Leiyn's journey becomes an epic tale of resilience, magic, and the weight of duty. The story weaves themes of friendship, vengeance, and wonder, creating a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world.
Author J.D.L. Rosell has crafted an immersive experience into a world of magic and danger, with accomplished storytelling that brings Leiyn's character to life. The narrative is filled with detailed worldbuilding and atmospheric touches to set the emotional mood, and the pacing unfolds with a perfect blend of all-out action and quieter emotional scenes. The concept of titans and the mystical powers Leiyn possesses adds a lot of intrigue and unpredictability to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy, where familiar concepts are given a unique new twist. The inclusion of original illustrations by artist Félix Ortiz enhances the visual experience, providing a vivid and gorgeous portrayal of the characters and their adventures to awaken the imagination. Overall, this first book in the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series promises a thrilling journey for those who enjoy tales of rangers, magic, and the enduring spirit of heroes, and I would highly recommend The Last Ranger for epic fantasy fans everywhere.
Recommend this book:
The Blackened Yonder
Planar Lost
J. Gibson
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Blackened Yonder is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, thriller, and horror subgenres, and it forms the opening novel in the Planar Lost series. The work is best suited to the adult reading audience. Penned by author J. Gibson, the story follows the intertwining paths of various characters grappling with a mysterious plague of Undeath sweeping across the land. From the priest Garron to the young Athenne and the clandestine group known as the Saints of Aetheria, each character navigates a world teetering on the brink of chaos. What results is an action-packed and exciting work of dark fantasy that leaves readers gasping and frantically turning pages to find out what happens next.
Author J. Gibson has crafted a work that is rich in worldbuilding, presenting a vivid and immersive fantasy setting filled with religion, magic, and political intrigue. I loved this author's dedication to crafting a fully realized world, which made it all the more realistic when you meet the central characters and see how their attitudes and actions are shaped by the culture and politics around them. Readers will be drawn into the well-paced mystery plot and the subtly-laid clues surrounding the undeath plague while also appreciating the complexity of the characters and their interwoven storylines. This all levels out to offer moments of tension, natural plot exposition in the dialogue, and strong plot twists that amp the action up at just the right moments. With a perfect balance of action, adventure, and character development, Gibson promises an engaging and thrilling read for fans of epic fantasy and darker fantasy stories alike. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Blackened Yonder as your next brilliant dark fantasy series to lose yourself in.
The Blackened Yonder is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, thriller, and horror subgenres, and it forms the opening novel in the Planar Lost series. The work is best suited to the adult reading audience. Penned by author J. Gibson, the story follows the intertwining paths of various characters grappling with a mysterious plague of Undeath sweeping across the land. From the priest Garron to the young Athenne and the clandestine group known as the Saints of Aetheria, each character navigates a world teetering on the brink of chaos. What results is an action-packed and exciting work of dark fantasy that leaves readers gasping and frantically turning pages to find out what happens next.
Author J. Gibson has crafted a work that is rich in worldbuilding, presenting a vivid and immersive fantasy setting filled with religion, magic, and political intrigue. I loved this author's dedication to crafting a fully realized world, which made it all the more realistic when you meet the central characters and see how their attitudes and actions are shaped by the culture and politics around them. Readers will be drawn into the well-paced mystery plot and the subtly-laid clues surrounding the undeath plague while also appreciating the complexity of the characters and their interwoven storylines. This all levels out to offer moments of tension, natural plot exposition in the dialogue, and strong plot twists that amp the action up at just the right moments. With a perfect balance of action, adventure, and character development, Gibson promises an engaging and thrilling read for fans of epic fantasy and darker fantasy stories alike. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Blackened Yonder as your next brilliant dark fantasy series to lose yourself in.
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