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 by John Patrick Kennedy uses facts taken from the New Testament of the Christian Holy Bible. However, it is a fantasy so time is measured in eons not a mere two thousand years. Nyx, a fallen angel, was banished to Hell, where she fought for supremacy to become its queen. Later, trapped on Earth, she falls in ...){kind=link}
Plague of Angels
The Descended Book 1
John Patrick Kennedy
2016 Honorable Mention
358 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Sarah Stuart for Readers' Favorite
Plague of Angels (The Descended Book 1) by John Patrick Kennedy uses facts taken from the New Testament of the Christian Holy Bible. However, it is a fantasy so time is measured in eons not a mere two thousand years. Nyx, a fallen angel, was banished to Hell, where she fought for supremacy to become its queen. Later, trapped on Earth, she falls in love with the disillusioned Son of God; “Father, why have You forsaken me” expresses his feelings. For Him, Nyx initiates a thousand-year reign of terror; she uses sex, violence and betrayal to force mankind to worship her. He has promised her a paradise on Earth if she succeeds, but her lover has plans even she, with all her magical powers, fails to foresee.
Irreverent and blasphemous are the words that came to mind while reading the prologue of Plague of Angels (The Descended Book 1) by John Patrick Kennedy, followed by dramatic, powerful, and, when I caught my breath at the end of chapter one enough to think, it would make a marvelous movie. God’s son resisting temptation in the desert is incredible; the crucifixion scene surpasses it, and anything recorded in the Bible. This is what the human eye is incapable of seeing; the ascent of His spirit to heaven, set against darkness and storm as the elemental forces of nature are controlled by the Almighty. Prepare to be shocked to the core, Christian or not. Plague of Angels is the most gripping paranormal fantasy I have ever read.
Plague of Angels (The Descended Book 1) by John Patrick Kennedy uses facts taken from the New Testament of the Christian Holy Bible. However, it is a fantasy so time is measured in eons not a mere two thousand years. Nyx, a fallen angel, was banished to Hell, where she fought for supremacy to become its queen. Later, trapped on Earth, she falls in love with the disillusioned Son of God; “Father, why have You forsaken me” expresses his feelings. For Him, Nyx initiates a thousand-year reign of terror; she uses sex, violence and betrayal to force mankind to worship her. He has promised her a paradise on Earth if she succeeds, but her lover has plans even she, with all her magical powers, fails to foresee.
Irreverent and blasphemous are the words that came to mind while reading the prologue of Plague of Angels (The Descended Book 1) by John Patrick Kennedy, followed by dramatic, powerful, and, when I caught my breath at the end of chapter one enough to think, it would make a marvelous movie. God’s son resisting temptation in the desert is incredible; the crucifixion scene surpasses it, and anything recorded in the Bible. This is what the human eye is incapable of seeing; the ascent of His spirit to heaven, set against darkness and storm as the elemental forces of nature are controlled by the Almighty. Prepare to be shocked to the core, Christian or not. Plague of Angels is the most gripping paranormal fantasy I have ever read.
Recommend this book:
Primeval Origins
Paths of Anguish (2nd Edition)
B.A. Vonsik
2016 Finalist
307 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite
Primeval Origins: Paths of Anguish by Brett Vonsik is, I fervently hope, volume 1 of at least a trilogy. Vonsik begins Primeval Origins on a Bolivian archaeological dig, where the fossilized skeleton of the largest known example of a prehistoric carnivore on Earth has been found. But something is amiss. Unnaturally linear cuts appear on several rib bones. Inexplicably, the massive skull of the predator has been penetrated by a sword, which still remains in place! In short order several unhappy events occur, wreaking havoc on the team of scientists. Thus ends the prologue. We do not encounter these folks again until the epilogue. Between those two accounts, we are transported to a fascinating world in which a somewhat primitive civilization coexists with large, dangerous animals freely roaming the Wilds. Many of these animals, if not all, seem to be dinosaurs. The bulk of the book is spent watching over the shoulders of the residents of this world as they battle monstrous carnivores and corrupt government officials. You will join young Rogaan on his quest to save his father and his best friends’ parents. The tale is more than riveting; it will transfix you.
Primeval Origins features a meticulously detailed world, crafted wholly from the author’s imagination. The society inhabiting the world is painstakingly described and altogether convincing in its many dealings. Vonsik has created a world full of intrigue, danger, magic and heroism. His scrupulous attention to seemingly innocuous detail has yielded a rich tapestry of believable realism on his unnamed planet, perfectly suited to hosting the account of Rogaan’s pursuit. Primeval Origins will get into your blood, and you will not want to put it down before reaching the final page. Then, you will feel a bit of panic as you realize you must wait until Vonsik completes the sequel before you can learn the fates of the various players in this saga. Primeval Origins is, in a word, outstanding. I urge all interested parties to purchase and read this mesmerizing story, and then post your reviews, so we can encourage the author to continue writing sequels to this engaging tale.
Primeval Origins: Paths of Anguish by Brett Vonsik is, I fervently hope, volume 1 of at least a trilogy. Vonsik begins Primeval Origins on a Bolivian archaeological dig, where the fossilized skeleton of the largest known example of a prehistoric carnivore on Earth has been found. But something is amiss. Unnaturally linear cuts appear on several rib bones. Inexplicably, the massive skull of the predator has been penetrated by a sword, which still remains in place! In short order several unhappy events occur, wreaking havoc on the team of scientists. Thus ends the prologue. We do not encounter these folks again until the epilogue. Between those two accounts, we are transported to a fascinating world in which a somewhat primitive civilization coexists with large, dangerous animals freely roaming the Wilds. Many of these animals, if not all, seem to be dinosaurs. The bulk of the book is spent watching over the shoulders of the residents of this world as they battle monstrous carnivores and corrupt government officials. You will join young Rogaan on his quest to save his father and his best friends’ parents. The tale is more than riveting; it will transfix you.
Primeval Origins features a meticulously detailed world, crafted wholly from the author’s imagination. The society inhabiting the world is painstakingly described and altogether convincing in its many dealings. Vonsik has created a world full of intrigue, danger, magic and heroism. His scrupulous attention to seemingly innocuous detail has yielded a rich tapestry of believable realism on his unnamed planet, perfectly suited to hosting the account of Rogaan’s pursuit. Primeval Origins will get into your blood, and you will not want to put it down before reaching the final page. Then, you will feel a bit of panic as you realize you must wait until Vonsik completes the sequel before you can learn the fates of the various players in this saga. Primeval Origins is, in a word, outstanding. I urge all interested parties to purchase and read this mesmerizing story, and then post your reviews, so we can encourage the author to continue writing sequels to this engaging tale.
Recommend this book:
Inheritance
Wizards of Seattle Book 1
John O'Riley
2016 Finalist
285 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Tracy Slowiak for Readers' Favorite
In a great new book by prolific author John O'Riley, Inheritance, Book One of the Wizards of Seattle Series, readers will be treated to a true adventure! Follow the story of Jason, a category 3 wizard, who's been out of a job for quite some time. Desperate to find work, Jason's unusual talent of being able to read the energy which lingers after an event has occurred brings him to the attention of a police department, and a potential job in using his ability to help solve crimes. He, his brother, and his cousin have also inherited a mansion, but in order to have complete ownership of the place, they must live there together for ten years. A lot happens to Jason and his compatriots, and this story will keep readers on their toes from the start to the very end.
I so enjoyed Inheritance. This was a fun story line and a very readable book. There are great characterizations, great fantastical elements set in a modern day society, and great use of magic and wizardry in a fun and interesting way. Readers who enjoy a fast paced read filled with action, magic, a bit of mystery, and a whole lot of fun would very much enjoy Inheritance. I am pleased to recommend this book to any such reader. I am certainly looking forward to reading more of this highly entertaining series as soon as possible, and hope that author John O'Riley is already hard at work on his next effort, even as I write!
In a great new book by prolific author John O'Riley, Inheritance, Book One of the Wizards of Seattle Series, readers will be treated to a true adventure! Follow the story of Jason, a category 3 wizard, who's been out of a job for quite some time. Desperate to find work, Jason's unusual talent of being able to read the energy which lingers after an event has occurred brings him to the attention of a police department, and a potential job in using his ability to help solve crimes. He, his brother, and his cousin have also inherited a mansion, but in order to have complete ownership of the place, they must live there together for ten years. A lot happens to Jason and his compatriots, and this story will keep readers on their toes from the start to the very end.
I so enjoyed Inheritance. This was a fun story line and a very readable book. There are great characterizations, great fantastical elements set in a modern day society, and great use of magic and wizardry in a fun and interesting way. Readers who enjoy a fast paced read filled with action, magic, a bit of mystery, and a whole lot of fun would very much enjoy Inheritance. I am pleased to recommend this book to any such reader. I am certainly looking forward to reading more of this highly entertaining series as soon as possible, and hope that author John O'Riley is already hard at work on his next effort, even as I write!
Recommend this book:
Blade of the Destroyer
The Last Bucelarii: Book 1
Andy Peloquin
2016 Finalist
332 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Chris Fischer for Readers' Favorite
A bloodthirsty knife that controls a man. A killer with an unknown past, a need for death and destruction, and an underlying desire to protect the most vulnerable. An immortal available for hire, but only at the right price. All of these elements add up to an unbelievably fantastic read. In Blade of the Destroyer: The Last Bucelarii, Book One by author Andy Peloquin, you will find all of these and so much more. Follow the Hunter of Voramis, the above mentioned immortal assassin, as he sets off on a contract to avenge a crime committed against a young girl. It's during this commission that the Hunter realizes it is he who might have become the hunted. But if he gives up his quest, he might also give up the chance to find out who he really is, and that's not something he's willing to leave behind so easily.
This book is fantastic. Drawing the reader in from page one, this page-turning thrill ride of a story is full of excitement, adventure, and suspense. Written from a unique point of view, that of the killer, Blade of the Destroyer has an extremely intriguing premise and storyline. Author Andy Peloquin does a fantastic job of creating a mysterious and enigmatic character in the Hunter, and has also created a world that is at the same time creepy and believable. Blade of the Destroyer would be enjoyed by any reader who likes action, adventure, a dark leading character, or just a plain excellent piece of fiction. I am extremely excited for the next installment in The Last Bucelarii series, and hope that the very promising author, Andy Peloquin, is hard at work on it at this very moment.
A bloodthirsty knife that controls a man. A killer with an unknown past, a need for death and destruction, and an underlying desire to protect the most vulnerable. An immortal available for hire, but only at the right price. All of these elements add up to an unbelievably fantastic read. In Blade of the Destroyer: The Last Bucelarii, Book One by author Andy Peloquin, you will find all of these and so much more. Follow the Hunter of Voramis, the above mentioned immortal assassin, as he sets off on a contract to avenge a crime committed against a young girl. It's during this commission that the Hunter realizes it is he who might have become the hunted. But if he gives up his quest, he might also give up the chance to find out who he really is, and that's not something he's willing to leave behind so easily.
This book is fantastic. Drawing the reader in from page one, this page-turning thrill ride of a story is full of excitement, adventure, and suspense. Written from a unique point of view, that of the killer, Blade of the Destroyer has an extremely intriguing premise and storyline. Author Andy Peloquin does a fantastic job of creating a mysterious and enigmatic character in the Hunter, and has also created a world that is at the same time creepy and believable. Blade of the Destroyer would be enjoyed by any reader who likes action, adventure, a dark leading character, or just a plain excellent piece of fiction. I am extremely excited for the next installment in The Last Bucelarii series, and hope that the very promising author, Andy Peloquin, is hard at work on it at this very moment.
Recommend this book:
Zeus Is Dead
A Monstrously Inconvenient Adventure
Michael G. Munz
2015 Bronze Medal
445 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Michelle Randall for Readers' Favorite
The Greek gods have returned to the public eye, prompted by the death of Zeus. What? That's right, the king of the gods, Zeus, is dead and the rest of the gods have come back into view to be worshiped and given their due once again. Only Apollo seems to be troubled by this strange turn of events and he is determined to discover who actually killed Zeus and do something about it. When Apollo has a vision of a human, he feels that this person is key to the answers he needs. So Apollo and the Muses track down out-of-work online gambler Lief Karlson, who ends up paired with TV producer Tracy Wallace. Together with Apollo and the Muses, they must uncover what really happened to Zeus and who was behind it, all while staying one step ahead of Ares and Athena, who are out to get rid of the mortals before they can complete their mission. Zeus Is Dead: A Monstrously Inconvenient Adventure is Michael G. Munz's comic look at the adventure that takes place.
Zeus is Dead may build on the current popular trend of stories about the Greek gods, but it is not what you are expecting. This is a comical and hilarious look at the Greek gods, at mortals, and the adventure they all undertake together and against each other. So many lines in this book will have you literally rolling on the floor with laughter! Michael G. Munz has created a book that, while trending popularly, is different and exciting. It is a great read for pre-teens on up through older adults! Older adults will understand some of the references better than younger readers, which makes it an awesome family fun read! Share it with a kid today!
The Greek gods have returned to the public eye, prompted by the death of Zeus. What? That's right, the king of the gods, Zeus, is dead and the rest of the gods have come back into view to be worshiped and given their due once again. Only Apollo seems to be troubled by this strange turn of events and he is determined to discover who actually killed Zeus and do something about it. When Apollo has a vision of a human, he feels that this person is key to the answers he needs. So Apollo and the Muses track down out-of-work online gambler Lief Karlson, who ends up paired with TV producer Tracy Wallace. Together with Apollo and the Muses, they must uncover what really happened to Zeus and who was behind it, all while staying one step ahead of Ares and Athena, who are out to get rid of the mortals before they can complete their mission. Zeus Is Dead: A Monstrously Inconvenient Adventure is Michael G. Munz's comic look at the adventure that takes place.
Zeus is Dead may build on the current popular trend of stories about the Greek gods, but it is not what you are expecting. This is a comical and hilarious look at the Greek gods, at mortals, and the adventure they all undertake together and against each other. So many lines in this book will have you literally rolling on the floor with laughter! Michael G. Munz has created a book that, while trending popularly, is different and exciting. It is a great read for pre-teens on up through older adults! Older adults will understand some of the references better than younger readers, which makes it an awesome family fun read! Share it with a kid today!
Recommend this book:
A Warrior's Path
The Castes and the OutCastes Book 1
Davis Ashura
2015 Bronze Medal
544 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
Davis Ashura’s A Warrior's Path series is quite the hidden gem in the fantasy genre, introducing its vast world and multi-dimensional characters through Book One: The Castes and the OutCastes. The demon Suwraith, the Bringer of Sorrows, has been constantly seeking out the absolute extinction of humanity since her arrival. Her Chimeras roam the wilderness, relentlessly threaten and exterminate anyone who is not in the safe protection of the cities’ walls. Rukh Shektan is a young warrior who not only has to live his life in a ruthless caste system, but also survive a never-ending war with the Chimeras. Worst of all, he discovers Suwraith’s plan to raze his home; the city of Ashoka.
The world-building is excellent and the plot is strong. The characters are engaging and well-fleshed out. Actions scenes are written in great detail without superfluous aspects. I also appreciated that Ashura makes some room for humor in the story. On the other hand, the beginning is a slow start for me as there are some descriptions that I think could be trimmed down or simplified. Additionally, the caste system integrated in the story is a double-edged sword. It adds an interesting and gritty element, yet it also brings slight negativity to my reading as it relates to bigotry. However, I don’t necessarily see this as a flaw of the book, but merely how it affects me as a reader. On the whole, A Warrior's Path has all the crucial prerequisites to make it enjoyable to fantasy fans in general while attracting some loyal fans along the way.
Davis Ashura’s A Warrior's Path series is quite the hidden gem in the fantasy genre, introducing its vast world and multi-dimensional characters through Book One: The Castes and the OutCastes. The demon Suwraith, the Bringer of Sorrows, has been constantly seeking out the absolute extinction of humanity since her arrival. Her Chimeras roam the wilderness, relentlessly threaten and exterminate anyone who is not in the safe protection of the cities’ walls. Rukh Shektan is a young warrior who not only has to live his life in a ruthless caste system, but also survive a never-ending war with the Chimeras. Worst of all, he discovers Suwraith’s plan to raze his home; the city of Ashoka.
The world-building is excellent and the plot is strong. The characters are engaging and well-fleshed out. Actions scenes are written in great detail without superfluous aspects. I also appreciated that Ashura makes some room for humor in the story. On the other hand, the beginning is a slow start for me as there are some descriptions that I think could be trimmed down or simplified. Additionally, the caste system integrated in the story is a double-edged sword. It adds an interesting and gritty element, yet it also brings slight negativity to my reading as it relates to bigotry. However, I don’t necessarily see this as a flaw of the book, but merely how it affects me as a reader. On the whole, A Warrior's Path has all the crucial prerequisites to make it enjoyable to fantasy fans in general while attracting some loyal fans along the way.
Recommend this book:
Misplaced
SL Hulen
2015 Honorable Mention
367 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite
The universe is full of mysteries and some of the most enduring are the explanation for the building of the pyramids, the disappearance of the Anasazi and the belief that earth has been visited by extra-terrestrial beings in times long past. In Misplaced by S.L. Hulen, all of these questions are dumped at the feet of a very down-to-earth lawyer whose goal is to ease the suffering of immigrants to El Paso, Texas. With the appearance of a young woman who was certainly not the usual client at the Center for Help, Victoria’s world is turned upside down as she struggles to make sense of the situation. Coming to grips with the arrival of a royal visitor from 2181 B.C. Egypt, Victoria works as hard as ever to make the arrangements needed to get Khara back home to fulfill her destiny. Hunted for her priceless jewelry by a discredited Egyptologist, Khara travels to New Mexico with Victoria in hopes of finding the portal through which she can return to take her rightful place as the Queen of the Upper and Lower Kingdoms. Is it possible or are the old tales and legends of the ancient days simply stories?
As unbelievable as the events may seem, S.L. Hulen weaves them together masterfully to create a truly interesting, engaging story full of mystery, love, loss and adventure. The greed of some human hearts is balanced by the self-sacrifice of others so that what is right has the chance to triumph. No one ever said that life is fair – it just takes a different way of looking at things to rise above the disappointment. Misplaced is a story you will be sorry to see end.
The universe is full of mysteries and some of the most enduring are the explanation for the building of the pyramids, the disappearance of the Anasazi and the belief that earth has been visited by extra-terrestrial beings in times long past. In Misplaced by S.L. Hulen, all of these questions are dumped at the feet of a very down-to-earth lawyer whose goal is to ease the suffering of immigrants to El Paso, Texas. With the appearance of a young woman who was certainly not the usual client at the Center for Help, Victoria’s world is turned upside down as she struggles to make sense of the situation. Coming to grips with the arrival of a royal visitor from 2181 B.C. Egypt, Victoria works as hard as ever to make the arrangements needed to get Khara back home to fulfill her destiny. Hunted for her priceless jewelry by a discredited Egyptologist, Khara travels to New Mexico with Victoria in hopes of finding the portal through which she can return to take her rightful place as the Queen of the Upper and Lower Kingdoms. Is it possible or are the old tales and legends of the ancient days simply stories?
As unbelievable as the events may seem, S.L. Hulen weaves them together masterfully to create a truly interesting, engaging story full of mystery, love, loss and adventure. The greed of some human hearts is balanced by the self-sacrifice of others so that what is right has the chance to triumph. No one ever said that life is fair – it just takes a different way of looking at things to rise above the disappointment. Misplaced is a story you will be sorry to see end.
Recommend this book:
 by Alia Luria, Mia Jayne discovers a book that will change her planet forever. A battle has been waging beneath the crust of her home world and with this new discovery, the battle will be brought to the surface. It's conscience vs heart. Freedom vs captivity. Past vs future. You always have a choice and tha...){kind=link}
Compendium
Artifacts of Lumin Book 1
Alia Luria
2015 Silver Medal
490 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Samantha Coville for Readers' Favorite
In Compendium (Artifacts of Lumin Book 1) by Alia Luria, Mia Jayne discovers a book that will change her planet forever. A battle has been waging beneath the crust of her home world and with this new discovery, the battle will be brought to the surface. It's conscience vs heart. Freedom vs captivity. Past vs future. You always have a choice and that can change everything.
Wow, wow, wow. Talk about unique. This sci-fi fantasy world that Alia Luria has created in Compendium will blow your mind away with its balance between detail and breezy pleasure. There's so much information to absorb here, but you never feel too overly burdened. And the characters could be my next door neighbors; they're so realistic. I really feel that the planet of Lumin exists out there in the galaxy. That is a difficult thing to achieve when the author is talking about fantasy stories.
The society on this planet has its own aura to it. There are little quirks about the way people talk and interact that creates a civilization to rival Tolkien and Lewis in its detail and spread. If you have plans for the next few days, do not pick up this book. I repeat: do not start unless you are willing to read for hours on end, gripped by the racing story line and breathtaking intrigue that fills the pages. I cannot wait for the next book to come out and I hope the series continues for many more books after that. I'm bookmarking this author because I know I will fall in love with every word she writes. Wow.
In Compendium (Artifacts of Lumin Book 1) by Alia Luria, Mia Jayne discovers a book that will change her planet forever. A battle has been waging beneath the crust of her home world and with this new discovery, the battle will be brought to the surface. It's conscience vs heart. Freedom vs captivity. Past vs future. You always have a choice and that can change everything.
Wow, wow, wow. Talk about unique. This sci-fi fantasy world that Alia Luria has created in Compendium will blow your mind away with its balance between detail and breezy pleasure. There's so much information to absorb here, but you never feel too overly burdened. And the characters could be my next door neighbors; they're so realistic. I really feel that the planet of Lumin exists out there in the galaxy. That is a difficult thing to achieve when the author is talking about fantasy stories.
The society on this planet has its own aura to it. There are little quirks about the way people talk and interact that creates a civilization to rival Tolkien and Lewis in its detail and spread. If you have plans for the next few days, do not pick up this book. I repeat: do not start unless you are willing to read for hours on end, gripped by the racing story line and breathtaking intrigue that fills the pages. I cannot wait for the next book to come out and I hope the series continues for many more books after that. I'm bookmarking this author because I know I will fall in love with every word she writes. Wow.
Recommend this book:
The Universe Builders
Bernie and the Putty
Steve LeBel
2015 Gold Medal
396 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Stephen Fisher for Readers' Favorite
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel is an epic science fiction novel about creation, and a race of shimmering gods that use something called universe putty to help mold worlds, and such. Get it? Kind of like Silly Putty, but on steroids. The story begins with Bernie, growing up in the shadow of his father, Simeon, one of the most renowned universe builders with three best universe awards. After his parents divorce, his father abandons Bernie and his mother. Forced to live in poverty, Bernie grows up with minimal friends. Billy is the bully that plagues Bernie his whole life, especially after Bernie came to his friend Suzie’s rescue. After Bernie graduates from school with a universe building degree, he applies for a builder's job, and lands a probational position with The Business. As an average student the odds are against Bernie from the start, especially when he finds out that his nemesis, Billy, is in the cubicle next to his. Billy’s uncle is the boss. Bernie is given a trial project of building a universe and if he passes, he gets a permanent position. Billy is out for revenge from day one, and sets out to sabotage any chances Bernie has.
Steve LeBel does a magnificent job of creating a race of gods that are, above all else, human, except for being immortal creators that is. Steve’s writing style pulls you into the story with a sense of humor that often occurs in the last line of a chapter. You simply cannot help laughing out loud, while turning the page to start the next chapter. Although this is an epic sci-fi novel, it is a marvelous story that will touch you in more ways than you would ever expect. The Universe Builders is smart, witty, creative, and captivating like nothing I have ever read before. Almost impossible to put down. Awesome!
The Universe Builders: Bernie and the Putty by Steve LeBel is an epic science fiction novel about creation, and a race of shimmering gods that use something called universe putty to help mold worlds, and such. Get it? Kind of like Silly Putty, but on steroids. The story begins with Bernie, growing up in the shadow of his father, Simeon, one of the most renowned universe builders with three best universe awards. After his parents divorce, his father abandons Bernie and his mother. Forced to live in poverty, Bernie grows up with minimal friends. Billy is the bully that plagues Bernie his whole life, especially after Bernie came to his friend Suzie’s rescue. After Bernie graduates from school with a universe building degree, he applies for a builder's job, and lands a probational position with The Business. As an average student the odds are against Bernie from the start, especially when he finds out that his nemesis, Billy, is in the cubicle next to his. Billy’s uncle is the boss. Bernie is given a trial project of building a universe and if he passes, he gets a permanent position. Billy is out for revenge from day one, and sets out to sabotage any chances Bernie has.
Steve LeBel does a magnificent job of creating a race of gods that are, above all else, human, except for being immortal creators that is. Steve’s writing style pulls you into the story with a sense of humor that often occurs in the last line of a chapter. You simply cannot help laughing out loud, while turning the page to start the next chapter. Although this is an epic sci-fi novel, it is a marvelous story that will touch you in more ways than you would ever expect. The Universe Builders is smart, witty, creative, and captivating like nothing I have ever read before. Almost impossible to put down. Awesome!
Recommend this book:
Attrition
The First Act of Penance: Three Acts of Penance
S.G. Night
2014 Gold Medal
584 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Eduardo Aduna for Readers' Favorite
S.G. Night's Attrition: The First Act of Penance is a sweeping tome filled with adventure, history and magic. Io is in turmoil. The Demon Dominion has enslaved humanity, banished the elves and eradicated the Majiski. Racath Thanjel, one of the last surviving Majiskis, has lived in the shadows for most of his life. Trained as an assassin, he must find a way to become more if he ever wishes to remove the Dominion's yoke and free Io. Guided by a girl who can see the future and trained by the best his race has to offer, Racath needs to unlock his Majiski gifts and be the hero he is prophesied to be.
The problem with long books is that if they turn out to be good, I lose an entire night's sleep. S.G. Night's Attrition was well worth it. It was quite difficult to get through the first chapter. But once I was through, the entire world of Io was mine to enjoy. Characters in fantasy settings live in a world with history, science and lore. A fictional world should have all the aspects of the real one. S.G. Night did a marvelous job of making his world come alive. Some of the expositions may seem a bit forced but, all in all, Mr. Night managed to introduce his world to readers without overtly detracting from the narrative.
Racath Thanjel is almost always on the verge of being an over-powered hero, but the author manages to bring in circumstances that challenge his protagonist. I particularly love the novel's supporting cast: Alexis, Toren, Rachel and Notak. It takes a lot of great writing to make the reader like the supporting cast of such a hero-centered saga. S.G. Night's Attrition: The First Act of Penance is the first of three parts. First volumes are supposed to pique reader interest, introduce characters and set up the fantasy world. In all these facets of fantasy, S.G. Night did an amazing job. I, for one, would willingly trade a sleepless night just to enjoy more of his work.
S.G. Night's Attrition: The First Act of Penance is a sweeping tome filled with adventure, history and magic. Io is in turmoil. The Demon Dominion has enslaved humanity, banished the elves and eradicated the Majiski. Racath Thanjel, one of the last surviving Majiskis, has lived in the shadows for most of his life. Trained as an assassin, he must find a way to become more if he ever wishes to remove the Dominion's yoke and free Io. Guided by a girl who can see the future and trained by the best his race has to offer, Racath needs to unlock his Majiski gifts and be the hero he is prophesied to be.
The problem with long books is that if they turn out to be good, I lose an entire night's sleep. S.G. Night's Attrition was well worth it. It was quite difficult to get through the first chapter. But once I was through, the entire world of Io was mine to enjoy. Characters in fantasy settings live in a world with history, science and lore. A fictional world should have all the aspects of the real one. S.G. Night did a marvelous job of making his world come alive. Some of the expositions may seem a bit forced but, all in all, Mr. Night managed to introduce his world to readers without overtly detracting from the narrative.
Racath Thanjel is almost always on the verge of being an over-powered hero, but the author manages to bring in circumstances that challenge his protagonist. I particularly love the novel's supporting cast: Alexis, Toren, Rachel and Notak. It takes a lot of great writing to make the reader like the supporting cast of such a hero-centered saga. S.G. Night's Attrition: The First Act of Penance is the first of three parts. First volumes are supposed to pique reader interest, introduce characters and set up the fantasy world. In all these facets of fantasy, S.G. Night did an amazing job. I, for one, would willingly trade a sleepless night just to enjoy more of his work.
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