Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

John Patrick Kennedy’s The Descended series continues with Book 2, Scorn of Angels. Nyx, Queen of Hell, lies broken and continually tormented in a box at the bottom of the Lake of Fire, put there by her lover, Tribunal, the Son of God. Nyx’s daughter has been slaughtered, and her companions were captured and are being tortured. Lucifer has taken over Hell and is ruling it with an iron fist. On Earth, Arcana, Angel of Heaven, has arrived a thousand years too late and is seeking answers.

The conflict between Heaven and Hell continues. Having read the first book, Plague of Angels, I’m keen to follow the story of Nyx and the Descended once again. Nyx never fails to fascinate me, as she is neither good nor evil. Her actions and decisions stand as a reminder of how complex she is. Tribunal is continuing his quest to destroy humanity with the aid of Lucifer and the Descended Angels.

Myth and religious elements are interwoven through Kennedy’s dark fantasy world. As this is a second installment, readers might want to read Book 1 to familiarize themselves with the world that Kennedy has created. It is important that the story is appreciated based on creativity and vigor of the writing, and is not to be taken literally as some sort of blasphemy. That said, readers who are sensitive to stories with warped religious themes might be offended with The Descended series. For others, the dark, original storyline, along with complex character development, will make Scorn of Angels a fascinating read.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Secret of Mago Castle is a metaphysical novel written by Rebecca Tinkle. Noah, Toby, Leuters and Angeline are looking for something, even if they don't know it. Noah is a doctor who's been diagnosed with a serious heart condition. Toby is in the stock market and has an ability that's made his life a prosperous, but meaningless one. Leuters has just been released from prison for the sin of finding and promoting a universal wellness product. Angeline is an actress who has not found her place and also has a secret skill. Noah's journey begins on the day before his heart surgery, when he walks into a lecture on life's spiritual significance, given by a woman named Suna. She informs him that she had been waiting for him, and their meeting would change his life.

Rebecca Tinkle's metaphysical fantasy, The Secret of Mago Castle, is an absorbing and uplifting story set in the red hills surrounding Sedona, Arizona. The author quickly introduces each of her characters and involves the reader in their stories. I was intrigued with the author's use of Korea's history in plotting this book, and found her presentation of the Korean creation myth to be marvelous and very inspirational. The Secret of Mago Castle gives you a lot to think about, even if you never visit Sedona or are inclined to meditation. Reading this book made me feel positive and empowered, and after reading it, I'm still feeling that way. I'm also eager to learn more about the Budoji and the history of ancient Korea. I enjoyed reading The Secret of Mago Castle. It's a marvelous story and is highly recommended.