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Recommend this book:
The Mermaid's Wrath
The Laughter of the Sun Book 1
Andie Holman
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
In Andie Holman’s first book in The Laughter of the Sun series, The Mermaid's Wrath, a warrior mermaid named Scyphozoa “Jelly” discovers that she is made for greater things when the coveted Vetula Pearl awakens in her. Her rage triggers an explosion and makes her realize that the pearl that grants her power also makes her prey to powerful enemies. A malevolent Fae Prince called Terrun is doing everything to get the pearl so he can use it in his apocalyptic designs against humanity. Jelly also faces threats from possessed sea creatures that attack her home. All she ever wanted was clear water to swim in, freedom for sea creatures to live and not die of plastic waste dumped into the sea. Now she must stop the humans, and to do so, she will need the magical beings she has been taught to hate, the Surfecti, who have all kinds of amulets and talismans that act as conduits for powerful magic. With the help of her friends, can she beat Terrun and stop the humans from destroying the planet?
The Mermaid's Wrath was a page-turning read with appealing characters, especially the heroine, Scyphozoa. Her anger is justified, but it also poses a danger. Andie Holman shows how female rage can be harnessed to become a revolutionary, rather than a destructive force. Scyphozoa’s rage is depicted in a way that counters narratives depicting female rage as something to be suppressed. While this tale is loaded with conflict and sophisticated characters, the impeccable way the author handles the theme of environmental pollution captured my attention. The story presents a sea surface that is saturated with plastic dumps and a pristine underwater realm that is worth protecting. There is so much to praise about this book, from the well-sculpted characters and the enticing first-person narrative voice to the clever exploration of the conflict between human mindlessness and the struggle for the preservation of the ecosystem. A novel that forces us to rethink our roles as custodians of the universe.
In Andie Holman’s first book in The Laughter of the Sun series, The Mermaid's Wrath, a warrior mermaid named Scyphozoa “Jelly” discovers that she is made for greater things when the coveted Vetula Pearl awakens in her. Her rage triggers an explosion and makes her realize that the pearl that grants her power also makes her prey to powerful enemies. A malevolent Fae Prince called Terrun is doing everything to get the pearl so he can use it in his apocalyptic designs against humanity. Jelly also faces threats from possessed sea creatures that attack her home. All she ever wanted was clear water to swim in, freedom for sea creatures to live and not die of plastic waste dumped into the sea. Now she must stop the humans, and to do so, she will need the magical beings she has been taught to hate, the Surfecti, who have all kinds of amulets and talismans that act as conduits for powerful magic. With the help of her friends, can she beat Terrun and stop the humans from destroying the planet?
The Mermaid's Wrath was a page-turning read with appealing characters, especially the heroine, Scyphozoa. Her anger is justified, but it also poses a danger. Andie Holman shows how female rage can be harnessed to become a revolutionary, rather than a destructive force. Scyphozoa’s rage is depicted in a way that counters narratives depicting female rage as something to be suppressed. While this tale is loaded with conflict and sophisticated characters, the impeccable way the author handles the theme of environmental pollution captured my attention. The story presents a sea surface that is saturated with plastic dumps and a pristine underwater realm that is worth protecting. There is so much to praise about this book, from the well-sculpted characters and the enticing first-person narrative voice to the clever exploration of the conflict between human mindlessness and the struggle for the preservation of the ecosystem. A novel that forces us to rethink our roles as custodians of the universe.
Recommend this book:
The Dead Queen
Briar Knightly
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by K T Bowes for Readers' Favorite
I found it difficult to stop reading The Dead Queen by Briar Knightly. This dark, romantic fantasy is filled with breathtaking action, passion, a brewing love triangle, and a mystery surrounding a missing person. Sienna, heiress of Llwyn and a Fox royal, is brave, unyielding, and conscience-led, even in the face of her tyrannical king. Sienna is dragged back from the borderlands, where she worked as a healer, by a royal demand. She witnessed the destruction of war between the North and South, and the undead creatures that torment the king’s forces. Back at court, she is swept into an unwanted engagement and commanded to fit into the king’s expectations of a dutiful daughter. Meanwhile, war rages on the frontier, and Llwyn’s citizens die. But when a spy from the north is captured at court, Sienna’s understanding of reality is altered forever, and her actions become traitorous.
I loved The Dead Queen. Briar Knightly creates incredible characters, and my allegiance switched constantly between Sienna’s love interests. The king is truly evil, and the descriptions evoke fear at even the mention of his name. Mystery threads keep the plot moving, making me desperate for answers. Who killed Sienna’s revered grandmother, and why is the king indifferent to the bloodshed on Llwyn’s borders and the encroachment of the Kingdom of Corpses? The theme is good versus evil, but in a genius twist, the author made it impossible for me to discern who was who. Each character has an agenda, and nothing is as it seems. As Sienna herself says, “By wielding the power to heal, I end up cutting people into pieces.” Every scene is incredibly colorful, and the metaphors are phenomenal. Highly recommended.
I found it difficult to stop reading The Dead Queen by Briar Knightly. This dark, romantic fantasy is filled with breathtaking action, passion, a brewing love triangle, and a mystery surrounding a missing person. Sienna, heiress of Llwyn and a Fox royal, is brave, unyielding, and conscience-led, even in the face of her tyrannical king. Sienna is dragged back from the borderlands, where she worked as a healer, by a royal demand. She witnessed the destruction of war between the North and South, and the undead creatures that torment the king’s forces. Back at court, she is swept into an unwanted engagement and commanded to fit into the king’s expectations of a dutiful daughter. Meanwhile, war rages on the frontier, and Llwyn’s citizens die. But when a spy from the north is captured at court, Sienna’s understanding of reality is altered forever, and her actions become traitorous.
I loved The Dead Queen. Briar Knightly creates incredible characters, and my allegiance switched constantly between Sienna’s love interests. The king is truly evil, and the descriptions evoke fear at even the mention of his name. Mystery threads keep the plot moving, making me desperate for answers. Who killed Sienna’s revered grandmother, and why is the king indifferent to the bloodshed on Llwyn’s borders and the encroachment of the Kingdom of Corpses? The theme is good versus evil, but in a genius twist, the author made it impossible for me to discern who was who. Each character has an agenda, and nothing is as it seems. As Sienna herself says, “By wielding the power to heal, I end up cutting people into pieces.” Every scene is incredibly colorful, and the metaphors are phenomenal. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Of Diamonds and Vengeance
The Chronicles of Adamah Book 1
Rachel Fallon
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Suzanne Holliday for Readers' Favorite
Of Diamonds and Vengeance: The Chronicles of Adamah, Book 1 by Rachel Fallon is a highly entertaining fantasy story. In the realm of Gemaria, there is nothing more important than the gems from which the Elves draw their power. Jacinth, a lowly street rat and thief, has survived against all odds and is forced to participate in a deadly game to win the High King’s heart and become his Queen. When Jacinth becomes tangled up in a plot against the crown, the need to prove herself is more pressing than ever. The stakes are high; Jacinth’s life and those she loves are on the line. Faced with fierce competition and an even fiercer need to avenge her family, Jacinth is determined to win, no matter the cost.
Rachel Fallon creates a stunningly colorful world, full of gems and court intrigue, a perfect imagining of the world found in Of Diamonds and Vengeance. The writing style is unique, and the way she describes the characters’ clothes, homes, and feelings drew me in completely. Jacinth is a showstopper, and I was rooting for her to win just as hard as the characters in the story. Jacinth is a seemingly tragic character, and throughout the quick progression of the story, I really got a deep sense of what motivated her. The author has a true talent for writing honest characters that make you question your own values. As a romance lover, Of Diamonds and Vengeance really stood out to me. Every aspect of growth in Jacinth’s relationship was hard and real, making for the perfect romantic escape.
Of Diamonds and Vengeance: The Chronicles of Adamah, Book 1 by Rachel Fallon is a highly entertaining fantasy story. In the realm of Gemaria, there is nothing more important than the gems from which the Elves draw their power. Jacinth, a lowly street rat and thief, has survived against all odds and is forced to participate in a deadly game to win the High King’s heart and become his Queen. When Jacinth becomes tangled up in a plot against the crown, the need to prove herself is more pressing than ever. The stakes are high; Jacinth’s life and those she loves are on the line. Faced with fierce competition and an even fiercer need to avenge her family, Jacinth is determined to win, no matter the cost.
Rachel Fallon creates a stunningly colorful world, full of gems and court intrigue, a perfect imagining of the world found in Of Diamonds and Vengeance. The writing style is unique, and the way she describes the characters’ clothes, homes, and feelings drew me in completely. Jacinth is a showstopper, and I was rooting for her to win just as hard as the characters in the story. Jacinth is a seemingly tragic character, and throughout the quick progression of the story, I really got a deep sense of what motivated her. The author has a true talent for writing honest characters that make you question your own values. As a romance lover, Of Diamonds and Vengeance really stood out to me. Every aspect of growth in Jacinth’s relationship was hard and real, making for the perfect romantic escape.
Recommend this book:
Maddening Marauders
The Last Lumenian Book 6
S.G. Blaise
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
S.G. Blaise’s Maddening Marauders, book six in The Last Lumenian series, follows Rhona, a general from the planet Teryn, where elite warriors bond with spirits that give them supernatural battle forms. Rhona never formed that bond, so many of Teryn’s soldiers regard her as unfit for military command. Her friend, Crown Princess Ivy, is the daughter of Dowager Queen Sheela, ruler of the Marauders’ Syndicate, a criminal empire spanning 125 planets. After Ivy is abducted, Rhona has a secret: she witnessed the kidnapping and remained hidden. Determined to bring Ivy home, she enters Marauder territory to find the princess through Sheela’s smuggling network. The search points toward Sheela’s preparations for another Era War, a conflict driven by rival divine powers across the Seven Galaxies, leaving Rhona racing to reach Ivy before the queen can use her captive daughter in whatever she has planned.
S.G. Blaise’s Maddening Marauders is an outstanding science fiction fantasy. We can only truly know a character when pressure closes in, and we get that over and over with Rhona. At the Village of Hope, where residents gather for a monthly public execution, Rhona is dead set against it and refuses to accept that cruelty, taking drastic steps again when she destroys intelligence files, exposing the weaknesses of people she loves. MaxWell is amazing as a mysterious Marauder whose knowledge of Sheela’s territory proves essential to Rhona’s search. Blaise makes Dowager Queen Sheela a formidable antagonist whose reach extends far beyond her palace. The world-building shines, whether it's Planet Einar, with prisoner experiments inside a coal mine, or Planet Gunne, with Sheela’s mansion behind a secret entrance that suits the reach of her rule. Everything about Blaise's work is fresh and inventive. For readers on the hunt for adventurous speculative fiction, this is a wonderful series. Very highly recommended.
S.G. Blaise’s Maddening Marauders, book six in The Last Lumenian series, follows Rhona, a general from the planet Teryn, where elite warriors bond with spirits that give them supernatural battle forms. Rhona never formed that bond, so many of Teryn’s soldiers regard her as unfit for military command. Her friend, Crown Princess Ivy, is the daughter of Dowager Queen Sheela, ruler of the Marauders’ Syndicate, a criminal empire spanning 125 planets. After Ivy is abducted, Rhona has a secret: she witnessed the kidnapping and remained hidden. Determined to bring Ivy home, she enters Marauder territory to find the princess through Sheela’s smuggling network. The search points toward Sheela’s preparations for another Era War, a conflict driven by rival divine powers across the Seven Galaxies, leaving Rhona racing to reach Ivy before the queen can use her captive daughter in whatever she has planned.
S.G. Blaise’s Maddening Marauders is an outstanding science fiction fantasy. We can only truly know a character when pressure closes in, and we get that over and over with Rhona. At the Village of Hope, where residents gather for a monthly public execution, Rhona is dead set against it and refuses to accept that cruelty, taking drastic steps again when she destroys intelligence files, exposing the weaknesses of people she loves. MaxWell is amazing as a mysterious Marauder whose knowledge of Sheela’s territory proves essential to Rhona’s search. Blaise makes Dowager Queen Sheela a formidable antagonist whose reach extends far beyond her palace. The world-building shines, whether it's Planet Einar, with prisoner experiments inside a coal mine, or Planet Gunne, with Sheela’s mansion behind a secret entrance that suits the reach of her rule. Everything about Blaise's work is fresh and inventive. For readers on the hunt for adventurous speculative fiction, this is a wonderful series. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Guard in the Garden
Fables of Finlestia
Z.S. Diamanti
2025 Gold Medal
294 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Cloie Belle Daffon for Readers' Favorite
Guard in the Garden: Fables of Finlestia by Z.S. Diamanti begins with a terrifying battle in Galium, in which Felton Hudlom is badly injured. Months had passed since the tragedy, and things were slowly returning to normal, despite the severe devastation caused by the dragon's fire during the battle. Although the majority of Felton's injuries have healed, he still suffers severe pain in his leg. As a result, it appeared that his military duty would end early. He'd committed his entire life to serving and protecting the people; what else can he do now? While recuperating at his twin aunts' home, he mistook a young woman for a robber, only to discover she owned their town's beautiful garden. Although the kind woman invited him into the garden, Felton felt uneasy there because someone appeared to be watching him. But in this garden, he also found new meaning. Read Guard in the Garden to accompany Felton on the journey he takes.
Z.S. Diamanti’s Guard in the Garden is well-written and heartwarming. Apart from Felton, there were many characters I loved, such as Lotmeag the foredwarf for his genuine care for Felton, Commander Qwen for her unwavering support for Felton, Felton's very caring twin aunts Cleary and Gael, Tobin for his compassion and warm personality despite only meeting Felton for the first time, Tullen for looking out for Felton despite the few times he may have caused a bit of trouble in his tavern, Tem the Tortoise for his mysterious personality, Tilli for being a ray of sunshine throughout the story, and Lili for being the most adorable character. There were also some useful lessons learned from each character's statements, such as Aunt Cleary's line, "Words have the power to breathe life or death," which is true. What you say to yourself will unintentionally become your reality, which is why constantly being kind to yourself matters so much, even when it is difficult. Another sentence I agree with is, "Though results vary, effort, when properly placed, is always worthwhile," which was brilliantly shown by Felton's experiences, actions, and the outcome of everything he accomplished. His road to healing warmed my heart, and I liked reading Guard in the Garden. Great work!
Guard in the Garden: Fables of Finlestia by Z.S. Diamanti begins with a terrifying battle in Galium, in which Felton Hudlom is badly injured. Months had passed since the tragedy, and things were slowly returning to normal, despite the severe devastation caused by the dragon's fire during the battle. Although the majority of Felton's injuries have healed, he still suffers severe pain in his leg. As a result, it appeared that his military duty would end early. He'd committed his entire life to serving and protecting the people; what else can he do now? While recuperating at his twin aunts' home, he mistook a young woman for a robber, only to discover she owned their town's beautiful garden. Although the kind woman invited him into the garden, Felton felt uneasy there because someone appeared to be watching him. But in this garden, he also found new meaning. Read Guard in the Garden to accompany Felton on the journey he takes.
Z.S. Diamanti’s Guard in the Garden is well-written and heartwarming. Apart from Felton, there were many characters I loved, such as Lotmeag the foredwarf for his genuine care for Felton, Commander Qwen for her unwavering support for Felton, Felton's very caring twin aunts Cleary and Gael, Tobin for his compassion and warm personality despite only meeting Felton for the first time, Tullen for looking out for Felton despite the few times he may have caused a bit of trouble in his tavern, Tem the Tortoise for his mysterious personality, Tilli for being a ray of sunshine throughout the story, and Lili for being the most adorable character. There were also some useful lessons learned from each character's statements, such as Aunt Cleary's line, "Words have the power to breathe life or death," which is true. What you say to yourself will unintentionally become your reality, which is why constantly being kind to yourself matters so much, even when it is difficult. Another sentence I agree with is, "Though results vary, effort, when properly placed, is always worthwhile," which was brilliantly shown by Felton's experiences, actions, and the outcome of everything he accomplished. His road to healing warmed my heart, and I liked reading Guard in the Garden. Great work!
Recommend this book:
Chronos Warlock
The Chronos Chronicles
Shami Stovall
2025 Silver Medal
420 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Alicia DeBerry for Readers' Favorite
Shami Stovall shows readers how anything is possible with time on your side. In Chronos Warlock: The Chronos Chronicles, we follow Adair Finch, the most powerful warlock in the world, who can reverse time for twenty-four hours. He is completing his pact with the spirit Kull by finding her a new body. She is extremely particular about her future body, so it is a difficult assignment. He’s heading to Oakland, where werewolves, full moon witches, vampires, and redwood elves abound, and most of them do not get along with Finch. During his travels, he finds the dead body of a social media star, which becomes a solution and a problem. Finch has to find clues about the murder and avoid his rivals and former foes.
Shami Stovall does an excellent job of focusing on the theme of love in Chronos Warlock. The trio of Adair, Kull, and Enzo the werewolf created some unforgettable comical scenes as they both tried to explain how to identify real love to Kull while trying to solve the murder. Enzo represents how love includes sacrifice as he gives up his career and family because he’s a werewolf. Adair and Kull's relationship addresses non-romantic love between friends. The murderer represents what happens when there is an unhealthy obsession with love. By the end of the book, I understood that love has different meanings because each person gave Kull a different answer. It is a wild and intoxicating story that any reader of crime, suspense, time travel, intrigue, thrillers, magic, and wizardry will enjoy.
Shami Stovall shows readers how anything is possible with time on your side. In Chronos Warlock: The Chronos Chronicles, we follow Adair Finch, the most powerful warlock in the world, who can reverse time for twenty-four hours. He is completing his pact with the spirit Kull by finding her a new body. She is extremely particular about her future body, so it is a difficult assignment. He’s heading to Oakland, where werewolves, full moon witches, vampires, and redwood elves abound, and most of them do not get along with Finch. During his travels, he finds the dead body of a social media star, which becomes a solution and a problem. Finch has to find clues about the murder and avoid his rivals and former foes.
Shami Stovall does an excellent job of focusing on the theme of love in Chronos Warlock. The trio of Adair, Kull, and Enzo the werewolf created some unforgettable comical scenes as they both tried to explain how to identify real love to Kull while trying to solve the murder. Enzo represents how love includes sacrifice as he gives up his career and family because he’s a werewolf. Adair and Kull's relationship addresses non-romantic love between friends. The murderer represents what happens when there is an unhealthy obsession with love. By the end of the book, I understood that love has different meanings because each person gave Kull a different answer. It is a wild and intoxicating story that any reader of crime, suspense, time travel, intrigue, thrillers, magic, and wizardry will enjoy.
Recommend this book:
Somnus' Palace
Book One of The Sleepwalker Cycle
C.V. Vobh
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Somnus’ Palace is the first book in The Sleepwalker Cycle series by C.V. Vobh. It is a spellbinding urban fantasy that offers an imaginative journey through dreams and the subconscious as Proto awakens in a surreal world governed by Somnus, the Lord of Dreams. Having a history of sleepwalking, Proto struggles with the reality of being pulled into the dream realm, where he and others navigate dreamers’ innermost battles and fears. Amidst mystical landscapes and entertaining banter, he is on a thrilling quest where he must learn to interact with and guide dreamers, balancing self-discovery with the pressures of helping others. What can go wrong in this delicate mission, and does Proto have what it takes to make things right for the dreamers?
The central conflict arises from Proto's struggle to adapt to this extraordinary realm while fulfilling his role as a dream visitor. He confronts the burden of responsibility and the unexpected consequences of meddling in other people's dreams. His relationship with Astrid, a no-nonsense guide, evolves from skepticism to meaningful connection, allowing both characters to develop and grow as they navigate their roles in this strange world. The setting is a captivating mix of ethereal dreamscapes and hints of reality, creating an enchanting atmosphere that challenges the boundaries between dreams and consciousness. Somnus’ Palace transports readers into a well-imagined and stunningly drawn world. C.V. Vobh offers nuanced characters, and I loved how Proto learns the importance of empathy and understanding. The banter is engaging, and the dialogues sparkle on every page. The humor highlights the farcical elements of the tale while the strong plot points invite readers into a thoughtful exploration of the dream world and human consciousness.
Somnus’ Palace is the first book in The Sleepwalker Cycle series by C.V. Vobh. It is a spellbinding urban fantasy that offers an imaginative journey through dreams and the subconscious as Proto awakens in a surreal world governed by Somnus, the Lord of Dreams. Having a history of sleepwalking, Proto struggles with the reality of being pulled into the dream realm, where he and others navigate dreamers’ innermost battles and fears. Amidst mystical landscapes and entertaining banter, he is on a thrilling quest where he must learn to interact with and guide dreamers, balancing self-discovery with the pressures of helping others. What can go wrong in this delicate mission, and does Proto have what it takes to make things right for the dreamers?
The central conflict arises from Proto's struggle to adapt to this extraordinary realm while fulfilling his role as a dream visitor. He confronts the burden of responsibility and the unexpected consequences of meddling in other people's dreams. His relationship with Astrid, a no-nonsense guide, evolves from skepticism to meaningful connection, allowing both characters to develop and grow as they navigate their roles in this strange world. The setting is a captivating mix of ethereal dreamscapes and hints of reality, creating an enchanting atmosphere that challenges the boundaries between dreams and consciousness. Somnus’ Palace transports readers into a well-imagined and stunningly drawn world. C.V. Vobh offers nuanced characters, and I loved how Proto learns the importance of empathy and understanding. The banter is engaging, and the dialogues sparkle on every page. The humor highlights the farcical elements of the tale while the strong plot points invite readers into a thoughtful exploration of the dream world and human consciousness.
Recommend this book:
In the Name of Honor
Vows & Valor Book 1
Courtney Collins, Clarke Collins
2025 Bronze Medal
371 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
In the Name of Honor by Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins takes readers into the enthralling adventures of Dimitar, a High Knight in training. Dimitar delivers a heartrending message to Kahled, King of Blackburn, involving the death of his close friend, King Conrad. This tragedy signals the presence of fiendish Corruptors in the land. In an attempt to seek vengeance for his fallen friend, King Kahled journeys into the unknown and is captured by the enemy. Nonetheless, before leaving Blackburn, he gives Dimitar the task of protecting his daughter, Princess Kaleela, who is also mourning the death of King Conrad. Dimitar intercepts a message regarding King Kahled's fate. Upon learning of the king's capture, Kaleela, Dimitar, and their companions set out to rescue him. Their arduous journey is filled with secrets, betrayal, unforetold dangers, and a pending war.
Fans of the LOTR franchise will be impressed by the stellar storytelling in this novel. In the Name of Honor is a compelling read that flawlessly merges multiple points of view, high-stakes adventure, an engaging plot, emotionally charged storylines, complex characters rich in diversity, and a well-designed world that will immediately grasp your undivided attention. It is a riveting story that touches on love, grief, revenge, courage, power, darkness, and war. Throughout Kaleela's and Dimitar's experiences, Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins effectively explore and incorporate themes like selflessness and trauma healing without diluting the action sequences. The Corruptors intrigued me the most. These beings create a welcome sense of menace, suspense, and trepidation throughout the storyline. I eagerly await the second installment of this captivating tale.
In the Name of Honor by Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins takes readers into the enthralling adventures of Dimitar, a High Knight in training. Dimitar delivers a heartrending message to Kahled, King of Blackburn, involving the death of his close friend, King Conrad. This tragedy signals the presence of fiendish Corruptors in the land. In an attempt to seek vengeance for his fallen friend, King Kahled journeys into the unknown and is captured by the enemy. Nonetheless, before leaving Blackburn, he gives Dimitar the task of protecting his daughter, Princess Kaleela, who is also mourning the death of King Conrad. Dimitar intercepts a message regarding King Kahled's fate. Upon learning of the king's capture, Kaleela, Dimitar, and their companions set out to rescue him. Their arduous journey is filled with secrets, betrayal, unforetold dangers, and a pending war.
Fans of the LOTR franchise will be impressed by the stellar storytelling in this novel. In the Name of Honor is a compelling read that flawlessly merges multiple points of view, high-stakes adventure, an engaging plot, emotionally charged storylines, complex characters rich in diversity, and a well-designed world that will immediately grasp your undivided attention. It is a riveting story that touches on love, grief, revenge, courage, power, darkness, and war. Throughout Kaleela's and Dimitar's experiences, Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins effectively explore and incorporate themes like selflessness and trauma healing without diluting the action sequences. The Corruptors intrigued me the most. These beings create a welcome sense of menace, suspense, and trepidation throughout the storyline. I eagerly await the second installment of this captivating tale.
Recommend this book:
The Minstrel and the Prophet
Book One of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker
Larry Z. Daily
2025 Honorable Mention
232 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
The Minstrel and the Prophet by Larry Z. Daily, the first book of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker, will appeal to fans of epic fantasy, action, and adventure. Lauren grows up in the village of Cresswell, in the Federated Kingdoms of Alomar. His father, Dalach, is the local chieftain. Once a warrior himself, Dalach wants his son to continue his legacy. But Lauren disagrees with Dalach, albeit quietly. Lauren hopes to be a minstrel, craving the freedom of these traveling musicians. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences trouble the Federation. Can two-headed newborn lambs and unusually aggressive wildlife herald an approaching catastrophe? Is an old prophecy of the Lawbreaker powerful enough to challenge the gods coming true? Lauren's acquaintance with a minstrel named Ryan triggers a chain of events. After an ugly scene with Dalach, Lauren leaves the village to become a minstrel. Disturbed by strange dreams and voices, Lauren is adamant about dedicating his life to music and knowledge while the Federation is shaken to the core.
The Minstrel and the Prophet is Larry Z. Daily's brilliant debut novel. Creative world-building and puzzling yet well-thought-out mythology will inspire the reader, especially the young adult audience, to read the genre's immortal classics. Yet Daily's approach is fresh and unique. We follow the events from Lauren's viewpoint. He is an unusual main character for a fantasy novel. Lauren despises physical strength if it leads to aggression. He values freedom and communication with people. A mystery surrounds him until the last mind-blowing revelation, making us wait impatiently for the next book. Daily describes the conflict between Dalach and Lauren with compassion. Many characters have a surprising backstory and an unexpected side. Among the secondary characters, wise Ambrose the prophet, and Lauren's teacher, Ryan, stand out. The author examines the essential themes of acceptance and tolerance of others' views. The plot teases readers with bewildering intrigue and offers an unforgettable adventure.
The Minstrel and the Prophet by Larry Z. Daily, the first book of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker, will appeal to fans of epic fantasy, action, and adventure. Lauren grows up in the village of Cresswell, in the Federated Kingdoms of Alomar. His father, Dalach, is the local chieftain. Once a warrior himself, Dalach wants his son to continue his legacy. But Lauren disagrees with Dalach, albeit quietly. Lauren hopes to be a minstrel, craving the freedom of these traveling musicians. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences trouble the Federation. Can two-headed newborn lambs and unusually aggressive wildlife herald an approaching catastrophe? Is an old prophecy of the Lawbreaker powerful enough to challenge the gods coming true? Lauren's acquaintance with a minstrel named Ryan triggers a chain of events. After an ugly scene with Dalach, Lauren leaves the village to become a minstrel. Disturbed by strange dreams and voices, Lauren is adamant about dedicating his life to music and knowledge while the Federation is shaken to the core.
The Minstrel and the Prophet is Larry Z. Daily's brilliant debut novel. Creative world-building and puzzling yet well-thought-out mythology will inspire the reader, especially the young adult audience, to read the genre's immortal classics. Yet Daily's approach is fresh and unique. We follow the events from Lauren's viewpoint. He is an unusual main character for a fantasy novel. Lauren despises physical strength if it leads to aggression. He values freedom and communication with people. A mystery surrounds him until the last mind-blowing revelation, making us wait impatiently for the next book. Daily describes the conflict between Dalach and Lauren with compassion. Many characters have a surprising backstory and an unexpected side. Among the secondary characters, wise Ambrose the prophet, and Lauren's teacher, Ryan, stand out. The author examines the essential themes of acceptance and tolerance of others' views. The plot teases readers with bewildering intrigue and offers an unforgettable adventure.
Recommend this book:
Light Locked
Light Locked Series Book 1
A.K. Chandler
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Light Locked by A.K. Chandler is book one in the Light Locked series. This gothic romance fantasy takes readers into Clea Hart's world. She is a Veilin with the mission of saving the three human cities. This means destroying the object that could ultimately destroy humanity. As the narrative begins, Clea is battling a reaper, a creature known for ripping the flesh of its prey and snapping bones. She's losing a lot of blood which is her energy source and has nearly succumbed to being prey herself before Ryson steps in to save her, that is, before he realizes she is a Veilin. Ryson is of a unique clan with fangs and silver eyes. He also comes with his secrets as he desperately seeks relief from his fate. But will these two completely different warriors from different worlds come together to complete a mission that could save humanity?
A.K. Chandler’s Light Locked is a perfectly paced fantasy and the mix of high-stakes adventure, romance, and personal growth among the characters is masterfully put together. Clea’s character is intriguing and shows strength matched by her vulnerability. This makes her journey not only a physical one but emotional as well. Ryson’s character is layered with complexity, yet readers can’t help but be intrigued by him and the suspense. The author does a great job of building a creative world in the Shambelin forest filled with all kinds of traps, tricks, and reapers. The supporting characters like Alina and Kalex make the narrative more interesting, especially when the author brings readers into the city of Virday, which has declined the most out of all three human cities. There is so much to love about Light Locked and fans of gothic romance fantasies will appreciate this character-driven narrative that explores trust and survival.
Light Locked by A.K. Chandler is book one in the Light Locked series. This gothic romance fantasy takes readers into Clea Hart's world. She is a Veilin with the mission of saving the three human cities. This means destroying the object that could ultimately destroy humanity. As the narrative begins, Clea is battling a reaper, a creature known for ripping the flesh of its prey and snapping bones. She's losing a lot of blood which is her energy source and has nearly succumbed to being prey herself before Ryson steps in to save her, that is, before he realizes she is a Veilin. Ryson is of a unique clan with fangs and silver eyes. He also comes with his secrets as he desperately seeks relief from his fate. But will these two completely different warriors from different worlds come together to complete a mission that could save humanity?
A.K. Chandler’s Light Locked is a perfectly paced fantasy and the mix of high-stakes adventure, romance, and personal growth among the characters is masterfully put together. Clea’s character is intriguing and shows strength matched by her vulnerability. This makes her journey not only a physical one but emotional as well. Ryson’s character is layered with complexity, yet readers can’t help but be intrigued by him and the suspense. The author does a great job of building a creative world in the Shambelin forest filled with all kinds of traps, tricks, and reapers. The supporting characters like Alina and Kalex make the narrative more interesting, especially when the author brings readers into the city of Virday, which has declined the most out of all three human cities. There is so much to love about Light Locked and fans of gothic romance fantasies will appreciate this character-driven narrative that explores trust and survival.
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