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Recommend this book:
Web of Eyes
Buried Goddess Saga Book 1
Rhett C Bruno, Jaime Castle
2019 Finalist
424 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Caitlin Lyle Farley for Readers' Favorite
King Liam of Pantego is dying and his only heir, Prince Pi, has been cursed, the doll containing a piece of his soul stolen by his warlock uncle. It falls to Torsten, the Wearer of the White, to hunt down the warlock in the Webbed Woods and reclaim the doll for the temperamental queen, despite his belief that the quest is based in heretical nonsense. With the fate of the kingdom at stake, Torsten’s best chance of success is to recruit help from Whitney Fierstown, the greatest thief nobody in Pantego has heard of. Having reached the peak of his career by stealing the glass crown off the king’s head, the bored thief is eager for the challenge Torsten’s quest offers. But the warlock isn’t the only enemy they’re up against as the Webbed Woods are home to Bliss, the spider queen.
Web of Eyes, Book One of the Buried Goddess Saga, by Rhett C Bruno and Jaime Castle, is an epic fantasy nuanced by Whitney’s humour, the darker elements of blood magic, and the creepy malevolence of the Webbed Woods and Bliss. Bruno and Castle’s rich world-building and an intriguing mythology centred on a feud between the gods add depth to this novel while plot momentum and engaging characters make the pages fly. Both Whitney and Torsten have definite personalities and beliefs, which creates entertaining friction in their relationship while their convincing individual internal conflict plays off against the plot. I would’ve liked to see similar scope in the female characters, Queen Oleander especially. Startling plot revelations lead to a thrilling conclusion in this entertaining epic fantasy.
King Liam of Pantego is dying and his only heir, Prince Pi, has been cursed, the doll containing a piece of his soul stolen by his warlock uncle. It falls to Torsten, the Wearer of the White, to hunt down the warlock in the Webbed Woods and reclaim the doll for the temperamental queen, despite his belief that the quest is based in heretical nonsense. With the fate of the kingdom at stake, Torsten’s best chance of success is to recruit help from Whitney Fierstown, the greatest thief nobody in Pantego has heard of. Having reached the peak of his career by stealing the glass crown off the king’s head, the bored thief is eager for the challenge Torsten’s quest offers. But the warlock isn’t the only enemy they’re up against as the Webbed Woods are home to Bliss, the spider queen.
Web of Eyes, Book One of the Buried Goddess Saga, by Rhett C Bruno and Jaime Castle, is an epic fantasy nuanced by Whitney’s humour, the darker elements of blood magic, and the creepy malevolence of the Webbed Woods and Bliss. Bruno and Castle’s rich world-building and an intriguing mythology centred on a feud between the gods add depth to this novel while plot momentum and engaging characters make the pages fly. Both Whitney and Torsten have definite personalities and beliefs, which creates entertaining friction in their relationship while their convincing individual internal conflict plays off against the plot. I would’ve liked to see similar scope in the female characters, Queen Oleander especially. Startling plot revelations lead to a thrilling conclusion in this entertaining epic fantasy.
Recommend this book:
Shadow of the Overlord
The Calamity Book 1
Kevin Potter
2019 Honorable Mention
679 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
The Free States is on the brink of collapse due to the absence of its king and heir as well as manipulation by a mastermind who works in the shadow. Taliesimon is a farmer's daughter who longs to be the first female Dragoon warrior, despite the discrimination from the commander and his lackeys. William is a traveling mercenary with a secret past. A violent raid by strange humanoid creatures brings the two together, along with an unexpected alliance with a half-elf, a dwarf, and ultimately a peace-loving dragon. Meanwhile, the Dragon Overlord is progressing with his plan to conquer the world and enslave other beings under his reign. Shadow of the Overlord (The Calamity, Book 1) by Kevin Potter is an epic sword and sorcery fantasy adventure for fans of the genre.
This multifaceted plot is filled with detailed, grand fight scenes and creatures galore. Starting with a gritty prologue that's engaging right away, Kevin Potter's Shadow of the Overlord is told through the perspectives of a number of lead characters. The attention given to their backstory is deftly balanced, giving each of them sufficient time and room for vital development and good depth of personality. Divided into three parts, we get to know the protagonists who will cross each other's paths in unexpected circumstances. I gravitated towards the tenacious Taliesimon, who perseveres along with her friend, Okara, to prove that female Dragoons are as good as their counterparts. Overall, this debut for The Calamity series is entertaining and has the classic charm that reminds me of all the fantasy adventure novels that I’ve read in my younger days. I look forward to reading how the characters will survive the next onslaught.
The Free States is on the brink of collapse due to the absence of its king and heir as well as manipulation by a mastermind who works in the shadow. Taliesimon is a farmer's daughter who longs to be the first female Dragoon warrior, despite the discrimination from the commander and his lackeys. William is a traveling mercenary with a secret past. A violent raid by strange humanoid creatures brings the two together, along with an unexpected alliance with a half-elf, a dwarf, and ultimately a peace-loving dragon. Meanwhile, the Dragon Overlord is progressing with his plan to conquer the world and enslave other beings under his reign. Shadow of the Overlord (The Calamity, Book 1) by Kevin Potter is an epic sword and sorcery fantasy adventure for fans of the genre.
This multifaceted plot is filled with detailed, grand fight scenes and creatures galore. Starting with a gritty prologue that's engaging right away, Kevin Potter's Shadow of the Overlord is told through the perspectives of a number of lead characters. The attention given to their backstory is deftly balanced, giving each of them sufficient time and room for vital development and good depth of personality. Divided into three parts, we get to know the protagonists who will cross each other's paths in unexpected circumstances. I gravitated towards the tenacious Taliesimon, who perseveres along with her friend, Okara, to prove that female Dragoons are as good as their counterparts. Overall, this debut for The Calamity series is entertaining and has the classic charm that reminds me of all the fantasy adventure novels that I’ve read in my younger days. I look forward to reading how the characters will survive the next onslaught.
Recommend this book:
The Winter of Swords
A Grimdark Epic (Overthrown Book 1)
Aaron Bunce
2019 Honorable Mention
538 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Maureen Dangarembizi for Readers' Favorite
The Winter of Swords by Aaron Bunce is an epic fantasy set in the land of Denoril. Denoril was once ruled by a monarchy until they were overthrown and replaced by the Council of Lords. When Eisa and her brothers disturb tower ruins they uncover a menace hiding in the shadows. Eisa escapes death but a worse fate awaits her at the hands of her monstrous captor. In Bardstown, evil hiding in the shadows is killing people. Roman, an orphan who has survived two attacks, is blamed for the murder. With only a handful of people believing in his innocence, can he unmask the true killer? Barden’s Reach is under siege by gnarls and it’s only a matter of time before the town is overrun. Julian sets out to save the woman he loves but instead finds a deposed monarch and an ancient evil waiting to shroud the kingdom in darkness.
The Winter of Swords has the makings of a thriller in its pages. From the start, Aaron Bunce takes the reader on a spine-tingling journey. The bad guys were really scary and the near-death scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are relatable and the reader is quickly drawn into their lives and what drives them in the story. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and gives the reader a broad understanding of Denoril and its citizens. The Winter of Swords ends on a cliffhanger so the reader has at least one more book to look forward to after reading this novel. I really enjoyed reading this book.
The Winter of Swords by Aaron Bunce is an epic fantasy set in the land of Denoril. Denoril was once ruled by a monarchy until they were overthrown and replaced by the Council of Lords. When Eisa and her brothers disturb tower ruins they uncover a menace hiding in the shadows. Eisa escapes death but a worse fate awaits her at the hands of her monstrous captor. In Bardstown, evil hiding in the shadows is killing people. Roman, an orphan who has survived two attacks, is blamed for the murder. With only a handful of people believing in his innocence, can he unmask the true killer? Barden’s Reach is under siege by gnarls and it’s only a matter of time before the town is overrun. Julian sets out to save the woman he loves but instead finds a deposed monarch and an ancient evil waiting to shroud the kingdom in darkness.
The Winter of Swords has the makings of a thriller in its pages. From the start, Aaron Bunce takes the reader on a spine-tingling journey. The bad guys were really scary and the near-death scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are relatable and the reader is quickly drawn into their lives and what drives them in the story. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and gives the reader a broad understanding of Denoril and its citizens. The Winter of Swords ends on a cliffhanger so the reader has at least one more book to look forward to after reading this novel. I really enjoyed reading this book.
Recommend this book:
The Steel Queen
The Silk & Steel Saga Book 1
Karen Azinger
2019 Honorable Mention
400 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Steel Queen is a powerful opening in The Silk & Steel Saga series by Karen Azinger; it’s an explosive beginning for a saga that comprises seven books. In a story set in the medieval kingdoms of Erdhe, readers are plunged in a world of intrigue, stabbings-in-the-back, painful betrayals, greed, love, and many themes of epic tales. The setting is a place where magic has almost completely been eliminated after the great wars of wizards. No one wants magic, but there are remnants of it and Castlegard is its most powerful evocation. With a cast of memorable characters, readers follow an intricately woven story, with dizzying action as a young princess stands up against the domineering strength of an aged evil. It’s a game of power, a fight for the control of the kingdoms of Erdhe.
The action is fast and intense, tantalizing, and cinematic, the kind you find in epic works of fantasy. The characters are exceptional and readers will be seduced by the female characters in the story and the roles they play, including the young Katherine. Karen Azinger has a unique gift for plot, creating a tapestry where different stories intertwine into a bold and daring narrative. The subplots are awesome and it’s impossible to ignore any part of the story. Her characters will haunt you, the plot will keep your heart racing, and the exquisite prose has a magic of its own. This author uses suspense to keep your attention, making the writing atmospheric, and creating worlds that are the best escape for fans of epic fantasy. The Steel Queen is written for mature audiences and it features themes of war, love, magic, and the quest for immortality. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
The Steel Queen is a powerful opening in The Silk & Steel Saga series by Karen Azinger; it’s an explosive beginning for a saga that comprises seven books. In a story set in the medieval kingdoms of Erdhe, readers are plunged in a world of intrigue, stabbings-in-the-back, painful betrayals, greed, love, and many themes of epic tales. The setting is a place where magic has almost completely been eliminated after the great wars of wizards. No one wants magic, but there are remnants of it and Castlegard is its most powerful evocation. With a cast of memorable characters, readers follow an intricately woven story, with dizzying action as a young princess stands up against the domineering strength of an aged evil. It’s a game of power, a fight for the control of the kingdoms of Erdhe.
The action is fast and intense, tantalizing, and cinematic, the kind you find in epic works of fantasy. The characters are exceptional and readers will be seduced by the female characters in the story and the roles they play, including the young Katherine. Karen Azinger has a unique gift for plot, creating a tapestry where different stories intertwine into a bold and daring narrative. The subplots are awesome and it’s impossible to ignore any part of the story. Her characters will haunt you, the plot will keep your heart racing, and the exquisite prose has a magic of its own. This author uses suspense to keep your attention, making the writing atmospheric, and creating worlds that are the best escape for fans of epic fantasy. The Steel Queen is written for mature audiences and it features themes of war, love, magic, and the quest for immortality. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Recommend this book:
Queens - The Wielders of Arantha
Book Two
Patrick Hodges
2019 Bronze Medal
463 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite
Queens by Patrick Hodges is the second book in The Wielders of Arantha series, an excellent blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Can a deadly prophecy about an imminent destruction be avoided? Elzor is on the path to acquire absolute power and nothing will stand on his way, even if it means reducing Ixtrayu to ashes. Following the warning from Kelia, their leader, Maeve and her son, Davin, join the Ixtrayu, but can they make any difference in a conflict involving such powerful forces? Thrust into an alien world, earthlings Maeve and Davin discover the truth about their powers, but can Maeve master her gift in time to stop the impending disaster?
This is the first book I have read by this author. I missed the first installment in the series — now I will have to go back to read it — but this one is well-crafted to read as a standalone novel, with enough backstory to pull the reader into the narrative. I enjoyed the world that Patrick Hodges creates for his readers, an exciting universe with elements that readers can easily see in their mind’s eyes. In works of this kind, I am very particular about the setting and the author doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The story flows flawlessly, driven by a huge conflict, and the characters are rock solid, crafted with depth and intelligence. The writing in Queens is stellar and readers will be absorbed by the vivid descriptions, enticed by the intelligent dialogues, and blown away by the intense action. I couldn’t put it down.
Queens by Patrick Hodges is the second book in The Wielders of Arantha series, an excellent blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Can a deadly prophecy about an imminent destruction be avoided? Elzor is on the path to acquire absolute power and nothing will stand on his way, even if it means reducing Ixtrayu to ashes. Following the warning from Kelia, their leader, Maeve and her son, Davin, join the Ixtrayu, but can they make any difference in a conflict involving such powerful forces? Thrust into an alien world, earthlings Maeve and Davin discover the truth about their powers, but can Maeve master her gift in time to stop the impending disaster?
This is the first book I have read by this author. I missed the first installment in the series — now I will have to go back to read it — but this one is well-crafted to read as a standalone novel, with enough backstory to pull the reader into the narrative. I enjoyed the world that Patrick Hodges creates for his readers, an exciting universe with elements that readers can easily see in their mind’s eyes. In works of this kind, I am very particular about the setting and the author doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The story flows flawlessly, driven by a huge conflict, and the characters are rock solid, crafted with depth and intelligence. The writing in Queens is stellar and readers will be absorbed by the vivid descriptions, enticed by the intelligent dialogues, and blown away by the intense action. I couldn’t put it down.
Recommend this book:
Crown of the Realm
All Things Impossible #1
D. Dalton
2019 Bronze Medal
549 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
In Crown of the Realm, Derora Saxen knew there was more to life than the quiet town she called home. But when the cultists turned up, looking for an outlaw, destiny came calling. When her father sent her on a quest to petition assistance, she had no idea of the danger. No idea that a plea for aid would result in her path crossing with enemies long forgotten, and put her and those who walked beside her in their sights. War is coming, and those already aware of the danger have done nothing but run. The time has come to make a stand, or watch the world burn.
Crown of the Realm is the first book in D. Dalton's All Things Impossible series. From the start, you are drawn straight in. From regicide to pony jousting, from cults to ancient and forgotten threats, it certainly encompasses a fantasy lover's expectations. The third person narrative is engaging, descriptive, and enjoyable, allowing you to breeze through as events unfold and the stakes rise. Loyalties and history are questioned as the choices made for the greater good seem to have consequences beyond those imagined. I enjoyed Derora's character; her moxie really made me smile, as did her persistence, perseverance, and strength of character. More than once I felt a pang of sympathy for those in her path, particularly her reluctant and long-suffering companion, Kelin. Danger, chaos, and questions drive the character-centered plot through an epic adventure fraught with peril. A great start to what promises to be a gripping series.
In Crown of the Realm, Derora Saxen knew there was more to life than the quiet town she called home. But when the cultists turned up, looking for an outlaw, destiny came calling. When her father sent her on a quest to petition assistance, she had no idea of the danger. No idea that a plea for aid would result in her path crossing with enemies long forgotten, and put her and those who walked beside her in their sights. War is coming, and those already aware of the danger have done nothing but run. The time has come to make a stand, or watch the world burn.
Crown of the Realm is the first book in D. Dalton's All Things Impossible series. From the start, you are drawn straight in. From regicide to pony jousting, from cults to ancient and forgotten threats, it certainly encompasses a fantasy lover's expectations. The third person narrative is engaging, descriptive, and enjoyable, allowing you to breeze through as events unfold and the stakes rise. Loyalties and history are questioned as the choices made for the greater good seem to have consequences beyond those imagined. I enjoyed Derora's character; her moxie really made me smile, as did her persistence, perseverance, and strength of character. More than once I felt a pang of sympathy for those in her path, particularly her reluctant and long-suffering companion, Kelin. Danger, chaos, and questions drive the character-centered plot through an epic adventure fraught with peril. A great start to what promises to be a gripping series.
Recommend this book:
The Reckoning
The Legend of Oescienne (Book Five)
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
2019 Silver Medal
736 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Reckoning is the fifth and final book in The Legend of Oescienne series by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, an epic fantasy tale with an enchanting setting, compelling characters, mythical creatures and a conflict of huge proportions. Jahrra is the one destined to defeat the evil Crimson King, the one spoken of in the prophecy, but how she will do this is still unclear to her. The only problem is that the moment comes quicker than she expected and she is still a long way to figuring out how to defeat the most powerful enemy in the land. On another front, Jaax travels to the valley of the elves, seeking the help they need to bring down a ruthless tyrant. The Tanaan dragon shows signs that there could be more danger than Jaax might have thought. Two destinies at the crossroads, mysterious plots, and deadly enemies at every step of the way.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson crafts a work that will stay with readers. The beauty of the setting and how it reflects in the story is one of the things to praise this author for. The reader is greeted with vivid images that set the atmosphere — the icy breeze whispering across the vast tundra and ruffling the short, tough grass, the frigid sea and the cold mountains, and other rough conditions. The conclusion to this epic series is dramatic and explosive, a tale that inspires similar feelings reader have when traveling the world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The prose is exquisite, at times lyrical, and the narrative evokes the proverbial conflict between good and evil. The themes of war, adventure, and sacrifice are well developed. The characters evolve steadily with the story and I loved how the author builds the strength of the protagonist. I loved Jahrra and her sense of daring. I loved her in the choices she makes — difficult choices. The plot is intricately structured with surprises and turns that will give readers many an "Aha!" moment. The Reckoning is engaging and utterly delightful, a transporting kind of read.
The Reckoning is the fifth and final book in The Legend of Oescienne series by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, an epic fantasy tale with an enchanting setting, compelling characters, mythical creatures and a conflict of huge proportions. Jahrra is the one destined to defeat the evil Crimson King, the one spoken of in the prophecy, but how she will do this is still unclear to her. The only problem is that the moment comes quicker than she expected and she is still a long way to figuring out how to defeat the most powerful enemy in the land. On another front, Jaax travels to the valley of the elves, seeking the help they need to bring down a ruthless tyrant. The Tanaan dragon shows signs that there could be more danger than Jaax might have thought. Two destinies at the crossroads, mysterious plots, and deadly enemies at every step of the way.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson crafts a work that will stay with readers. The beauty of the setting and how it reflects in the story is one of the things to praise this author for. The reader is greeted with vivid images that set the atmosphere — the icy breeze whispering across the vast tundra and ruffling the short, tough grass, the frigid sea and the cold mountains, and other rough conditions. The conclusion to this epic series is dramatic and explosive, a tale that inspires similar feelings reader have when traveling the world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The prose is exquisite, at times lyrical, and the narrative evokes the proverbial conflict between good and evil. The themes of war, adventure, and sacrifice are well developed. The characters evolve steadily with the story and I loved how the author builds the strength of the protagonist. I loved Jahrra and her sense of daring. I loved her in the choices she makes — difficult choices. The plot is intricately structured with surprises and turns that will give readers many an "Aha!" moment. The Reckoning is engaging and utterly delightful, a transporting kind of read.
Recommend this book:
The 19th Bladesman
Shadow Sword series
S.J. Hartland
2019 Gold Medal
631 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
In The 19th Bladesman by S.J. Hartland, Kaell's destiny had been written long before he was ever born. It was his destiny to fight the ghouls, to keep their forces at bay, and to die young. But there is more to this title than just that. The 19th Bladesman had another prophecy attached to him. If the 19th Bladesman is broken, then an evil god seeking dominion over all will be freed from his prison, and the prophecy states he will be broken. Prophecies of death and consequences see many who seek Kaell's death, only the manner of its deliverance varies, depending on whose side they are on. Fate has been kind in sparing him twice, once as a child and once again as a young man once more in the same woman's clutches, but will his luck hold out? Can he overcome what fate has in store, and if he does, can he live with the consequences?
S.J. Hartland writes the kind of action scenes that effortlessly draw the reader in and have them visualizing the flurry of movement in such a masterful way that I have only ever encountered in a handful of authors. However, it is not only the fast-paced, heart-pounding action where the author excels, but the world building is also phenomenal, with clear attention paid to provide a rich culture, society, history, religion and structure. The scenes flow effortlessly into one another, making its size as an epic barely noticeable as you turn page after page, losing yourself in a clearly well-constructed plot that is driven by the varied cast of vivid characters. The characters are every bit as deep and complex as the world itself, each sporting their own drives, ambitions, agendas, and, of course, flaws. Danger lurks at every turn, and trust is a difficult commodity to invest in. Action, betrayal, peril, insight, and the moxie to defy fate itself propel the reader through a rollercoaster adventure like no other. I love a big book, and give this one my full recommendation, something I save only for the books that really make me invest in the plot and characters. The 19th Bladesman is my kind of story, and I can't wait to see where S.J. Hartland takes us next.
In The 19th Bladesman by S.J. Hartland, Kaell's destiny had been written long before he was ever born. It was his destiny to fight the ghouls, to keep their forces at bay, and to die young. But there is more to this title than just that. The 19th Bladesman had another prophecy attached to him. If the 19th Bladesman is broken, then an evil god seeking dominion over all will be freed from his prison, and the prophecy states he will be broken. Prophecies of death and consequences see many who seek Kaell's death, only the manner of its deliverance varies, depending on whose side they are on. Fate has been kind in sparing him twice, once as a child and once again as a young man once more in the same woman's clutches, but will his luck hold out? Can he overcome what fate has in store, and if he does, can he live with the consequences?
S.J. Hartland writes the kind of action scenes that effortlessly draw the reader in and have them visualizing the flurry of movement in such a masterful way that I have only ever encountered in a handful of authors. However, it is not only the fast-paced, heart-pounding action where the author excels, but the world building is also phenomenal, with clear attention paid to provide a rich culture, society, history, religion and structure. The scenes flow effortlessly into one another, making its size as an epic barely noticeable as you turn page after page, losing yourself in a clearly well-constructed plot that is driven by the varied cast of vivid characters. The characters are every bit as deep and complex as the world itself, each sporting their own drives, ambitions, agendas, and, of course, flaws. Danger lurks at every turn, and trust is a difficult commodity to invest in. Action, betrayal, peril, insight, and the moxie to defy fate itself propel the reader through a rollercoaster adventure like no other. I love a big book, and give this one my full recommendation, something I save only for the books that really make me invest in the plot and characters. The 19th Bladesman is my kind of story, and I can't wait to see where S.J. Hartland takes us next.
Recommend this book:
Pawns
The Wielders of Arantha Book 1
Patrick Hodges
2018 Bronze Medal
404 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite
Pawns is the first book and a stunning introduction to The Wielders of Arantha series by Patrick Hodges, a sci-fi set in the future, seven hundred years from now. A story that features aliens, an impossible mission, and a race against time to save an entire planet is surely going to grab the attention of fans of sci-fi. The Jegg is an alien race that invades the earth and they have already destroyed more than half of the Terran Confederation. The future of the earth could depend solely on a few highly skilled scientists; they are working ceaselessly in a hidden corner of the Sahara Desert to find a solution to the invasion. They are working on a technology that would enable them to access the energy source that could help destroy the aliens. But something awful happens and only two members of the crew survive: Maeve, the wife of the captain of the team, and her son, Davin. Now at the destination, can they complete the mission and return in time to save the earth?
Patrick Hodges has won me over as a fan and I can’t help but wait eagerly for the next book in this series. The writing is so exquisitely great that it makes the read an exceptional experience. The reader will love the characters and I enjoyed the fact that they are faced with a serious crisis, working feverishly to find a solution to a deadly invasion. The plot is powerful, fast-paced, and original. Pawns paints a wonderful setting and readers will feel like they are part of the exciting story. Well-crafted with a gripping plot and memorable characters, this novel will have fans of sci-fi enthralled.
Pawns is the first book and a stunning introduction to The Wielders of Arantha series by Patrick Hodges, a sci-fi set in the future, seven hundred years from now. A story that features aliens, an impossible mission, and a race against time to save an entire planet is surely going to grab the attention of fans of sci-fi. The Jegg is an alien race that invades the earth and they have already destroyed more than half of the Terran Confederation. The future of the earth could depend solely on a few highly skilled scientists; they are working ceaselessly in a hidden corner of the Sahara Desert to find a solution to the invasion. They are working on a technology that would enable them to access the energy source that could help destroy the aliens. But something awful happens and only two members of the crew survive: Maeve, the wife of the captain of the team, and her son, Davin. Now at the destination, can they complete the mission and return in time to save the earth?
Patrick Hodges has won me over as a fan and I can’t help but wait eagerly for the next book in this series. The writing is so exquisitely great that it makes the read an exceptional experience. The reader will love the characters and I enjoyed the fact that they are faced with a serious crisis, working feverishly to find a solution to a deadly invasion. The plot is powerful, fast-paced, and original. Pawns paints a wonderful setting and readers will feel like they are part of the exciting story. Well-crafted with a gripping plot and memorable characters, this novel will have fans of sci-fi enthralled.
Recommend this book:
Kings of Paradise
Ash and Sand Book 1
Richard Nell
2018 Gold Medal
608 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
His mother had given everything she had to protect him. Born Noss touched, there were those who would call Ruka cursed. Children like him were not allowed to live in some places, although some northern laws protected them from the death sentence that people were all too willing to preach was right. She loved him, she believed he was a child of prophecy, one who would destroy and create the world anew. Ruka, however, believed no such things. He lacked his mother's faith in the gods, and sought only to live. But he was an outlaw, unjustly accused and unfairly sentenced. He vowed to survive, to live on for his mother. He took everything that was good and buried it in a haven of his own, making a place where he could be all he wished, a place where things in the real world didn't matter. Except they did. While Ruka tries to survive, a young prince tries to find his place in the world. Sent to the navy, unsure of his calling, Kale finds camaraderie and earns the respect of many. Before both these men lies a difficult future, one that will either save the world or see it burn.
There a complex depth to the characters in Richard Nell's Kings of Paradise (Ash and Sand Book 1). I enjoyed watching each of their developments. Dala, Kale, and Ruka have very different stories, different lives, and yet all three are destined to change the world. I loved how these characters grew and changed when challenged by circumstances. Weakness becomes strength, and the power and strength of an idea is central to this story. Written with a flair befitting the world of fantasy, and with a passion the reader can't help but experience. There is so much depth to the plot, characters, world building, and hierarchy that you can't help but be drawn into this world of darkness, entitlement, and hatred. Sometimes things must be destroyed to be built anew, a theme explored in this impressive tale. Love, betrayal, loyalty, honour, sacrifice, gods and men, agendas, politics, and manipulation; what more could you ask for? A must for lovers of fantasy, especially those who enjoy losing themselves in a epic tale.
His mother had given everything she had to protect him. Born Noss touched, there were those who would call Ruka cursed. Children like him were not allowed to live in some places, although some northern laws protected them from the death sentence that people were all too willing to preach was right. She loved him, she believed he was a child of prophecy, one who would destroy and create the world anew. Ruka, however, believed no such things. He lacked his mother's faith in the gods, and sought only to live. But he was an outlaw, unjustly accused and unfairly sentenced. He vowed to survive, to live on for his mother. He took everything that was good and buried it in a haven of his own, making a place where he could be all he wished, a place where things in the real world didn't matter. Except they did. While Ruka tries to survive, a young prince tries to find his place in the world. Sent to the navy, unsure of his calling, Kale finds camaraderie and earns the respect of many. Before both these men lies a difficult future, one that will either save the world or see it burn.
There a complex depth to the characters in Richard Nell's Kings of Paradise (Ash and Sand Book 1). I enjoyed watching each of their developments. Dala, Kale, and Ruka have very different stories, different lives, and yet all three are destined to change the world. I loved how these characters grew and changed when challenged by circumstances. Weakness becomes strength, and the power and strength of an idea is central to this story. Written with a flair befitting the world of fantasy, and with a passion the reader can't help but experience. There is so much depth to the plot, characters, world building, and hierarchy that you can't help but be drawn into this world of darkness, entitlement, and hatred. Sometimes things must be destroyed to be built anew, a theme explored in this impressive tale. Love, betrayal, loyalty, honour, sacrifice, gods and men, agendas, politics, and manipulation; what more could you ask for? A must for lovers of fantasy, especially those who enjoy losing themselves in a epic tale.
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