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Recommend this book:
Web of Eyes
Buried Goddess Saga Book 1
Rhett C Bruno, Jaime Castle
2019 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Check current price
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:
Thief of the Night Guild
Queen of Thieves Book 2
Andy Peloquin
2018 Finalist
434 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Caitlin Lyle Farley for Readers' Favorite
In Thief of the Night Guild: Queen of Thieves Book 2 by Andy Peloquin, Ilanna is the best thief among all the Hawks of the Night guild. She’s proud of her skills, and proud of her status within the guild, but is determined to raise enough money to buy her freedom. She could never do that on the ten percent she gets to keep of her earnings, so she steals a little extra. It’s a dangerous game, but Ilanna is a dangerous woman and she’ll do whatever it takes to protect her son. After Duke Phonnis executes a close friend of hers, Ilanna comes up with a plan that will not only result in a big enough haul to buy her freedom, but will avenge her friend and ruin the Duke. With the Guild Council’s permission, Ilanna puts together a team to pull off a heist that will eclipse her conquest of the Black Spire.
Thief of the Night Guild is a tightly plotted novel that builds momentum from page one. There’s a fair amount of backstory since this is the second book in the Queen of Thieves series, but Andy Peloquin elucidates all essential details as they become necessary. Ilanna is a clever, skilled, and confident character, but she’s also the stereotypical abuse-hardened woman one often encounters in fantasy novels. While I enjoy dark characters, I don't enjoy it when a character’s inability to express so-called weak emotions is categorised as strength. However, I’ll credit Peloquin for revealing the frailty behind this mental state. Apart from this character trope, Thief of the Night Guild is an entertaining, addictive read full of clever twists.
In Thief of the Night Guild: Queen of Thieves Book 2 by Andy Peloquin, Ilanna is the best thief among all the Hawks of the Night guild. She’s proud of her skills, and proud of her status within the guild, but is determined to raise enough money to buy her freedom. She could never do that on the ten percent she gets to keep of her earnings, so she steals a little extra. It’s a dangerous game, but Ilanna is a dangerous woman and she’ll do whatever it takes to protect her son. After Duke Phonnis executes a close friend of hers, Ilanna comes up with a plan that will not only result in a big enough haul to buy her freedom, but will avenge her friend and ruin the Duke. With the Guild Council’s permission, Ilanna puts together a team to pull off a heist that will eclipse her conquest of the Black Spire.
Thief of the Night Guild is a tightly plotted novel that builds momentum from page one. There’s a fair amount of backstory since this is the second book in the Queen of Thieves series, but Andy Peloquin elucidates all essential details as they become necessary. Ilanna is a clever, skilled, and confident character, but she’s also the stereotypical abuse-hardened woman one often encounters in fantasy novels. While I enjoy dark characters, I don't enjoy it when a character’s inability to express so-called weak emotions is categorised as strength. However, I’ll credit Peloquin for revealing the frailty behind this mental state. Apart from this character trope, Thief of the Night Guild is an entertaining, addictive read full of clever twists.
Recommend this book:
Panther Across the Stars
Lon Brett Coon
2018 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Panther Across the Stars by Lon Brett Coon is an epic fantasy with characters that are deeply explored and a culture that is as rich as it is fascinating, a story for readers who are intrigued by war heroes and tightly plotted stories. Readers follow the path of a man who defies everything, rises above himself to fight for his people, a story with a historical setting in 1800s America. With the alien race known as the Jhagir by his side, will this hero be able to win freedom for his people?
The characters are well sculpted and readers will be keen to follow them as they evolve through the story. Lon Brett Coon's gift for storytelling and backstory infuses the tale with a life of its own. The pacing is fast and the story is well-structured with chapters that end with an irresistible invitation to the reader to move to the next one. The prose is characterized by a singular beauty and an economy of word that will please the reader. The overall story is balanced and the scenes are beautifully written and focused. I also enjoyed the fact that the author spares his readers unnecessary dialogues and focuses instead on creating powerful images for his readers. The scenes are action-packed and each of them unveils a layer of character development. This is a gripping story that readers would love to see on the big screen. I enjoyed the writing, the great characters, the immense conflict and the intensity of the action in this epic fantasy.
Panther Across the Stars by Lon Brett Coon is an epic fantasy with characters that are deeply explored and a culture that is as rich as it is fascinating, a story for readers who are intrigued by war heroes and tightly plotted stories. Readers follow the path of a man who defies everything, rises above himself to fight for his people, a story with a historical setting in 1800s America. With the alien race known as the Jhagir by his side, will this hero be able to win freedom for his people?
The characters are well sculpted and readers will be keen to follow them as they evolve through the story. Lon Brett Coon's gift for storytelling and backstory infuses the tale with a life of its own. The pacing is fast and the story is well-structured with chapters that end with an irresistible invitation to the reader to move to the next one. The prose is characterized by a singular beauty and an economy of word that will please the reader. The overall story is balanced and the scenes are beautifully written and focused. I also enjoyed the fact that the author spares his readers unnecessary dialogues and focuses instead on creating powerful images for his readers. The scenes are action-packed and each of them unveils a layer of character development. This is a gripping story that readers would love to see on the big screen. I enjoyed the writing, the great characters, the immense conflict and the intensity of the action in this epic fantasy.
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