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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
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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
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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.
Recommend this book:
Dead Weight
Magic, Mayhem, and the Law in Precinct #153, Book 1
G.P. Robbins
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Lexie Fox for Readers' Favorite
Dead Weight is a work of fiction in the fantasy and paranormal genres. It is suitable for mature audiences and was penned by G.P. Robbins. This is a gripping and imaginative urban fantasy crime thriller that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the supernatural streets of Cauldron City where magical creatures coexist alongside humans and darkness lurks around every corner. The novel introduces us to the newly promoted Detective Jace Smithson, whose life quickly spirals into chaos as he investigates a series of gruesome murders and the kidnapping of a unicorn capable of creating diamonds.
Dead Weight explores themes of justice, belief, and the harsh realities of a city where magic and crime intersect whilst still allowing moments of joy and laughter along the way. One of the novel's strengths is its well-developed characters, especially Jace Smithson. As the protagonist, Jace is a multi-faceted character with a blend of vulnerability, determination, and relateability which we see as he's forced to confront his own beliefs and navigate the city's dark complexities. At first glance, the story may seem like a typical crime mystery, with greed and violence at its core; however, G.P. Robbins skillfully weaves a complex and layered narrative, adding humor and the paranormal into the mix. This unique blend of urban fantasy and crime drama adds a fresh and intriguing dimension to the story. Dead Weight is a page-turner that combines supernatural elements with a gritty detective story. G.P. Robbins' use of wit, vivid world-building, and compelling storytelling make this novel a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and crime fiction alike.
Dead Weight is a work of fiction in the fantasy and paranormal genres. It is suitable for mature audiences and was penned by G.P. Robbins. This is a gripping and imaginative urban fantasy crime thriller that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the supernatural streets of Cauldron City where magical creatures coexist alongside humans and darkness lurks around every corner. The novel introduces us to the newly promoted Detective Jace Smithson, whose life quickly spirals into chaos as he investigates a series of gruesome murders and the kidnapping of a unicorn capable of creating diamonds.
Dead Weight explores themes of justice, belief, and the harsh realities of a city where magic and crime intersect whilst still allowing moments of joy and laughter along the way. One of the novel's strengths is its well-developed characters, especially Jace Smithson. As the protagonist, Jace is a multi-faceted character with a blend of vulnerability, determination, and relateability which we see as he's forced to confront his own beliefs and navigate the city's dark complexities. At first glance, the story may seem like a typical crime mystery, with greed and violence at its core; however, G.P. Robbins skillfully weaves a complex and layered narrative, adding humor and the paranormal into the mix. This unique blend of urban fantasy and crime drama adds a fresh and intriguing dimension to the story. Dead Weight is a page-turner that combines supernatural elements with a gritty detective story. G.P. Robbins' use of wit, vivid world-building, and compelling storytelling make this novel a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and crime fiction alike.
Recommend this book:
Cursed King
Blood and Kisses
Danielle Paquette-Harvey
2024 Silver Medal
324 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Danielle Paquette-Harvey’s Cursed King romantic fantasy features several characters who depend on each region’s representation by the United Races Committee. Nathan is the king of Ichoryilla and the only known hybrid who is half vampire and half werewolf. However, Nathan has been unable to connect with his werewolf side and relies on Emerald, his human vassal, to provide him with blood every day to avoid bloodlust. He has chosen to marry Samantha, a vampiress he has grown fond of. Meanwhile, King Erendriel’s grand wizard is investigating the dwindling magic of the elves. Elaine is alarmed when she receives a report of a Milonblooder that has been seen in the Elven Kingdom. On the day of King Nathan’s wedding, an assassin attacks Nathan and mortally wounds him with a poisoned knife. Emerald leads him through a hidden passage to escape from Caleb. Angry, Caleb will not give up his pursuit until he fulfills his contract.
Danielle Paquette-Harvey gave the views of many characters. The transition between each character was easy to follow, with each section labeled with the character's point of view. The suspense was built from the start by introducing each character and a personal challenge they faced. For Nathan, his hybrid bloodline was considered a possible disadvantage. He valued humans on the same level as vampires, which wasn’t always supported by his subjects. I liked Caleb’s character because he was direct and efficient with attacks. The details of each job he performed were vivid. The exceptional descriptions of the scenes made it easy to envision the surroundings. A major twist caught me off-guard and made the plot unpredictable as it added more complicated obstacles. The ending was a cliffhanger that made me eager to read the sequel. Cursed King will appeal to fantasy readers who like seeing how each character views the same event.
Danielle Paquette-Harvey’s Cursed King romantic fantasy features several characters who depend on each region’s representation by the United Races Committee. Nathan is the king of Ichoryilla and the only known hybrid who is half vampire and half werewolf. However, Nathan has been unable to connect with his werewolf side and relies on Emerald, his human vassal, to provide him with blood every day to avoid bloodlust. He has chosen to marry Samantha, a vampiress he has grown fond of. Meanwhile, King Erendriel’s grand wizard is investigating the dwindling magic of the elves. Elaine is alarmed when she receives a report of a Milonblooder that has been seen in the Elven Kingdom. On the day of King Nathan’s wedding, an assassin attacks Nathan and mortally wounds him with a poisoned knife. Emerald leads him through a hidden passage to escape from Caleb. Angry, Caleb will not give up his pursuit until he fulfills his contract.
Danielle Paquette-Harvey gave the views of many characters. The transition between each character was easy to follow, with each section labeled with the character's point of view. The suspense was built from the start by introducing each character and a personal challenge they faced. For Nathan, his hybrid bloodline was considered a possible disadvantage. He valued humans on the same level as vampires, which wasn’t always supported by his subjects. I liked Caleb’s character because he was direct and efficient with attacks. The details of each job he performed were vivid. The exceptional descriptions of the scenes made it easy to envision the surroundings. A major twist caught me off-guard and made the plot unpredictable as it added more complicated obstacles. The ending was a cliffhanger that made me eager to read the sequel. Cursed King will appeal to fantasy readers who like seeing how each character views the same event.
Recommend this book:
The Yawning Gap
Book One of The Wanderers Cycle
C.V. Vobh
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Yawning Gap is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and forms the first novel of The Wanderers Cycle book series. It is best suited for mature teen and adult readers owing to the presence of moderate fantasy violence. In this fantastic opening to a powerful new fantasy series penned by author C.V. Vobh, we follow the exploits of Cor as he discovers a way to break past the invisible boundaries separating his small village from countless other locations in a ruined world. Aligning his mission with fellow wanderers able to join his quest, Cor will uncover the truth about the damage that this fragmentation is doing to the wider world.
Author C.V. Vobh has a fantastic central concept for this epic fantasy series which really holds the plot together and offers a superb blank canvas for our heroes to go out and explore with full abandon. This makes for exciting reading as you can never be sure what isolated corner of this blighted world they’ll uncover next, and I, for one, was impressed by the diverse descriptive work in building the atmosphere, culture, history, and ideas around so many different locales. The character development is fantastic, too, as Cor and his fellow wanderers are exposed to people and places unlike anything they know and begin to grow as people as a result. Overall, readers seeking an accomplished fantasy work with wonderful worldbuilding, great characters, and a fresh, unique plot will certainly enjoy The Yawning Gap, and I can’t wait to see what more this exciting series holds in the future.
The Yawning Gap is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and forms the first novel of The Wanderers Cycle book series. It is best suited for mature teen and adult readers owing to the presence of moderate fantasy violence. In this fantastic opening to a powerful new fantasy series penned by author C.V. Vobh, we follow the exploits of Cor as he discovers a way to break past the invisible boundaries separating his small village from countless other locations in a ruined world. Aligning his mission with fellow wanderers able to join his quest, Cor will uncover the truth about the damage that this fragmentation is doing to the wider world.
Author C.V. Vobh has a fantastic central concept for this epic fantasy series which really holds the plot together and offers a superb blank canvas for our heroes to go out and explore with full abandon. This makes for exciting reading as you can never be sure what isolated corner of this blighted world they’ll uncover next, and I, for one, was impressed by the diverse descriptive work in building the atmosphere, culture, history, and ideas around so many different locales. The character development is fantastic, too, as Cor and his fellow wanderers are exposed to people and places unlike anything they know and begin to grow as people as a result. Overall, readers seeking an accomplished fantasy work with wonderful worldbuilding, great characters, and a fresh, unique plot will certainly enjoy The Yawning Gap, and I can’t wait to see what more this exciting series holds in the future.
Recommend this book:
Futility of Defense
Bryan Cole
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Futility of Defense is the second book in the epic sword and sorcery series The Paladin's Journey by Bryan Cole. The series follows the exploits of Krell, a paladin of the god ReckNor, and his band of warriors under contract to protect the harbor town of Watford. Watford has become the target of sea devils that attack during storms and kill indiscriminately. This time, Krell has to face a giant and a basilisk and reanimate his killed friends. Again. Consequences from the past bring death and destruction to Watford as a demon wants to destroy Krell. If dealing with these things is not enough, Krell has to navigate human life and relationships, which sometimes seem more difficult than fighting monsters.
In this second installment of The Paladin's Journey, Cole has taken time to flesh out the characters. As more background is given regarding Verbena, Dahlia, and Sheana, Krell develops both in his magic and hand-to-hand combat skills, his view of the world, and his role as a Paladin of ReckNor. We also learn more about the political background of the region and see how much Krell knows about achieving peace by winning a war that no one realized was being fought. Once again, the book has immersive world-building and great characters driving the story. Character and plot development brings a new angle to the story while staying true to the characters and plot from the first installment. The book covers various themes that include gender violence, making hard choices, and understanding that you have to deal with consequences.
Futility of Defense is the second book in the epic sword and sorcery series The Paladin's Journey by Bryan Cole. The series follows the exploits of Krell, a paladin of the god ReckNor, and his band of warriors under contract to protect the harbor town of Watford. Watford has become the target of sea devils that attack during storms and kill indiscriminately. This time, Krell has to face a giant and a basilisk and reanimate his killed friends. Again. Consequences from the past bring death and destruction to Watford as a demon wants to destroy Krell. If dealing with these things is not enough, Krell has to navigate human life and relationships, which sometimes seem more difficult than fighting monsters.
In this second installment of The Paladin's Journey, Cole has taken time to flesh out the characters. As more background is given regarding Verbena, Dahlia, and Sheana, Krell develops both in his magic and hand-to-hand combat skills, his view of the world, and his role as a Paladin of ReckNor. We also learn more about the political background of the region and see how much Krell knows about achieving peace by winning a war that no one realized was being fought. Once again, the book has immersive world-building and great characters driving the story. Character and plot development brings a new angle to the story while staying true to the characters and plot from the first installment. The book covers various themes that include gender violence, making hard choices, and understanding that you have to deal with consequences.
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