Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Eldritch Sparks by Whitney Hill is the second book in the Shadow of the Otherside series. Arden has a lot on her plate but she's managed to find herself at home in the Otherside. Her relationship with Roman has become stronger but how they feel about each other may not be enough. The presence of his brother causes friction and when Roman gets an opportunity for justice, it could cost them their relationship. Her job as a private investigator takes her on the search for missing bodies which leads her to discover a Lich working in their area to bring forth zombies and cause some chaos. She has a choice to make when the Lich offers her a deal that could provide her with exactly what she wants but accepting would mean betraying those that trust her.

The story focuses on various elements that are woven together to create Arden's journey. It blends her quest for power, her relationship with Roman, and the chaos of this world. She works to balance her role as a PI, her Otherside responsibilities, and finding time to fit in a date night. Arden's journey is rooted in her desire to stand on her own, away from others such as the gods that tell her what to do. She's witty, brazen, headstrong, and funny which makes her relatable and roots the story in her journey of power. The relationship with Roman has deepened since the first book and she's found herself trusting him on a deeper level, even allowing him into her most sacred place. The deeper their bond becomes the more they stand to lose, which explores the theme of love versus justice while exploring the question of whether love can conquer all. This sets the stage for upcoming obstacles that will lend complications to their relationship and push them to decide if their relationship is stronger than the desire for justice.

Whitney Hill blends action and magic with an urban fantasy that derives these elements from rich mythology. Magic, creatures, gods, and more make up the Otherside, bringing the story to life through vivid details and drawing you into Arden's world. The story has mystery and suspense through the search for a Lich that's raising zombies and provides a significant element to Arden's journey. The world that Hill has created in Eldritch Sparks is beautifully brought to life with a tone that pairs well with the strength of a brilliant and powerful heroine.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Seduction: Claw and Warder Episode 1 by Erik Henry Vick is an urban fantasy set in the seedy streets of New York City. What the common mundane humans fail to understand is that beneath their veneer of civilization lurks an entirely separate and self-governing community, that of the world of magic and the supernatural. Leery Oriscoe is a New York Jewish cop, a shapeshifter, who works the homicide beat of the supernatural police force of New York. Their rules of operation, engagement and justice are not terribly dissimilar to those of their mundane compatriots; however, they are daily dealing with demons, ghosts, fae, fetches, succubi and so much more. Leery has just been assigned a new, gorgeous rookie partner who not only seems to be much more than she appears to be on the surface but also has their ghost Lieutenant on her case from day one. Their first case together is what appears to be an open and shut murder case of a young Irish tourist in Richmond Park, sucked dry by a succubus. But when the case begins to blow wide open, the pair realizes they are dealing with something much more dramatic and worrying and will have a battle on their hands to ensure justice is served.

This type of urban fantasy is not normally my type of book, but it is important to try new genres from time to time, as I absolutely loved this story. The idea that there are two simultaneous types of society working side-by-side was a fascinating premise. This is the beginning of a series featuring these characters and I look forward to seeing how they develop as characters and especially how the relationship of Leery and his new partner grows. The characters are fully overdrawn, as is the nature in this genre, and author Erik Henry Vick has done a fantastic job of giving them real and recognizable emotions and foibles that endear them to the reader, despite their magical beings. Even the title, Seduction: Claw and Warder Episode 1, is a clever play on the clearly recognizable settings of Law and Order. The writing style is flowing and easy to read. I would have preferred a slightly longer story but as the first glimpse of these characters, this setting, and the plotlines, I am impressed and awaiting Episode 2. If urban fantasy is your thing, this is a book you must read but even if it’s not, this is a book you should read. I did and I’m glad of it – an excellent read.

Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

After a car wreck, a young college student wakes up inside a shabby clinic within a strange city in the fascinating urban fantasy, Caligation by Brhi Stokes. After wasting several years in college, Ripley decides to stop drifting and start living. Discarding everything in his life, he simply walks away. Without a destination in mind, Ripley starts hitchhiking. His first ride is from a young woman, and becoming friends with her, he shares his beer. Suddenly, in a blur of lights and movement, their car is hit and everything goes black. When Ripley regains consciousness, he wakes up in a decrepit medical building. Disoriented and distressed, Ripley runs from the building. But when he hits the streets, he is stalked and ambushed by ferocious creatures. A woman with an unusual addition of a tail rescues him, feeds him, and then sends him on his way. But when he resumes his journey, Ripley is confused by the city and its bizarre inhabitants. All Ripley wants to do is go home, but every time he tries, he ends up back where he began. The only person that even offers him hope is the city's worst criminal. The catch is, if he wants answers, he must work for the crime boss first. Will Ripley ever find his way back to his other life? Or will he be stuck forever in a metropolis of human hybrids?

Caligation by Brhi Stokes is an entertaining fantasy novel set in a unique city that has a very strange populace. It is a gripping, action-packed novel filled with monsters and mayhem that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Woven into the story are obscure teasers from Ripley's memory, telepathic discussions with his avian counterpart, and volatile encounters. These creative elements produce a stunning novel that is irresistible and impossible to put down. It is a hair-raising adventure in an eerie story-world filled with unique beings and vampiric creatures that is sure to thrill fans of urban fantasy and science fiction.

Reviewed by Rylanne Burdette for Readers' Favorite

Blood Bound by R.J. Blain is the phenomenal first installment of the Lowrance Vampire novels. When Penelope Francis is brutally turned into a vampire and left in her grave, her awakening leaves her out for revenge and determined to kill her vicious maker. She fends for herself on the streets by killing fugitive vampires until Emerick Lowrance finds her and makes her a part of his brood. The mystery surrounding his beauty and cunning personality makes Penelope secretly drool over him, despite her better judgment. Penelope, turned Pepper, begins to feel safe in the brood, but there are evil people in New York City who are determined to take her from her newfound group.

I absolutely loved Blood Bound. I was hooked from the first chapter, and I enjoyed R.J. Blain's portrayal of vampires and magic in this paranormal fiction story. The development of Pepper and Emerick's relationship was entertaining to see play out, and I was so looking forward to seeing more passion between them (in the second book maybe? I will freak out if it happens). The plot was well drawn out, and I was sad to see the book end so soon. It was both funny and darkly intense, and I loved every chapter of it. I will be patiently awaiting the second installment of this series and will most certainly try to pick it up as soon as it comes out. For anyone who enjoys a great vampire story, I would highly recommend this book!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Mitzvah is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy sub-genre and was penned by author Erik Henry Vick. The third episodic novel in the Claw & Warder series, this dark and fascinating work of fantasy continues to explore the world of Leery and Dru as they investigate paranormal events in a supernatural alternative New York City. In this particular adventure, the ghosts of Leery’s past come calling, and when the bodies start dropping, the finger of blame points at Leery himself. With his reputation and the wider community under threat, so begins a fascinating fantasy murder mystery that blends suspense, action, and thrills in a criminally inviting new world.

Right from the off, the conceptual reading experience of Hassidic werewolves in a dark but well ordered supernatural New York was an utter delight to become immersed in. Having been a huge fan of author Erik Henry Vick for his Bloodletter Saga, I already knew that the author was capable of high tension, vivid atmosphere and some really visceral and exciting horror moments, but it was a true triumph to see these coerced and molded into the crime and murder mystery genre in this unique new series. Leery and Dru are fantastic protagonists with an unusual friendship dynamic, and I also really enjoyed how the social structures of the police force and other societies in this alternative New York are played out. Overall, I would highly recommend Mitzvah and the Claw & Warder series in general to urban fantasy, crime, and mystery fans looking for a high-quality read.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Tegen Hunt is a work of edgy, dark urban fantasy penned by author Inge-Lise Goss, and it forms the fourth novel of the Tegen Series. In this new and suspenseful adventure, we are reunited with Sara and some of the colorful characters from her past as new dangers and new mysteries loom overhead. A Tegen whom Sara took a confession from has now escaped from custody, and the immortal fugitive is dead set on a powerful vendetta to capture Sara to prevent her from talking. Meanwhile, a suspicious death sends Sara to an investigation in New Mexico, but what’s waiting for her there in the criminal underworld only complicates matters further.

Despite never having read this series before, it was so easy to fall into the shadowy, immortal world of Tegens and the structure of rules and laws around them. Fans of both supernatural fantasy and crime novels are sure to enjoy the blending of genres, which author Inge-Liss Goss does really intelligently. The result is a noir-feeling fantasy novel with high stakes and action, which also has a realistic, procedural crime drama feel to it. On top of this, the development of Sara’s character, and her relationship with her lover Conner, is really well written, and it provides a lot of emotional depth and understanding for both characters as the plot deepens. Overall, Tegen Hunt is a well-plotted fantasy adventure with plenty of dark little twists and turns to keep readers entertained from start to finish: a highly recommended read.

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

"And then it shrieked at me, the agony of centuries piercing my ears till I thought my skull would burst, electric shocks searing through my fingers, hand, arm, ripping through my whole body, gripping my lungs and squeezing until I couldn’t breathe. I flung the rock away, covering my ears and dropping to the floor, shaking, gasping for air, while still it screamed, on and on and on..." In Debriefing the Dead (The Dead Series, Book 1) by Kerry Blaisdell, Hyacinth Finch and her sister, Lily, were murdered by demons, leaving her 7-year-old nephew Geordi behind with no one except his father’s Sicilian mob family. Archangel Michael offers her a deal; retrieve a powerful stone from the demons before they give it to Satan. In return, Hyacinth can remain on earth long enough to find Geordi a better home.

The battle between good and evil is endless, and a resurrected art dealer has no choice but to be involved. The story premise and its narrative hook got my attention right away. Despite playing a role in the 'shady' part of her business, protagonist Hyacinth is a kind-hearted person who wants the best possible life for her sister and her adorable nephew. The supernatural mystery and suspense elements drive the fast-paced plot forward, combined with enough romance to add sentimental flair between the characters. Balanced with a sense of fun and quirky situations, Debriefing the Dead is excellently imaginative and hard to put down. So what's next for Geordi's devoted and fearless "Tata Hyhy"? I'm eager to find out how the story will continue. Overall, an exciting supernatural thriller from Kerry Blaisdell for fans of the genre.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

As they say, “…and now for something completely different.” That is exactly what The Persistence of Memory by Karen Janowsky brought me. This book took me completely by surprise with both its premise and its development. Major Daniel Hecht was somewhat of an enigma. A sickly, weak, American Jew who was captured by the Nazis in 1938, Daniel was subjected to horrific experiments by the Nazi overlords who were working on a formula to make the “perfect” soldier. When Daniel was finally freed by a group of partisans, he was used and abused by the American armed services for his special abilities. Then, right in the middle of the war, something odd happened and Daniel was thrust through time to 2012 where he was again recruited by an organization that wanted to use his special talents along with some other “superheroes” to keep the forces of evil at bay. When Daniel, an awkward introvert, meets Nina, a new recruit, both instantly know there is something special between them. Despite neither having memories of the event, they are sure they have always known each other, and that there is a special bond between them. Daniel, Nina, and the rest of the rag-tag superheroes set about trying to stop the collection of ancient artifacts that together could create a superweapon for the forces of evil.

I absolutely loved this book. The premise was so outlandish and the story so personal and real that you, as a reader, can't help being drawn into the jumbled world of Daniel and Nina. The Persistence of Memory is an enigma in itself. Somehow author Karen Janowsky has managed to combine an action-packed narrative of superheroes with a sweet, beautiful love story that plays out between Daniel and Nina. Both characters are so incredibly naïve as to the ways of the world that at times you really want to shout at them… “for God’s sake, just do it.” The writing style is relaxed and comfortable. I was able to read this book in a single sitting. It is one of those stories you just simply cannot put down because you are always searching for the next step, the next move in the relationship. The erotic writing in the book is a very small part, but an extremely powerful part. I felt the author handled these scenes with such tenderness and care that it was an absolute pleasure to read. If you love good science fiction or fantasy with plenty of twists and turns, or if you just love a ripping good adventure yarn with plenty of romance, you will love this book. I did and I can highly recommend it.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Bonds is an installment in the Royal States series penned by author Susan Copperfield. This is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy genre and is aimed at older audiences due to some moderate language and violent content warnings. Set in the Royal States of America, an alternative version of the USA where magic rules every aspect of life, the novel follows rescue diver Jack Alders. Using his arcane talents to prevent an oil spill from reaching the French coastline, Jack unwittingly discovers a secret that could shake the foundation of the Royal States, and one that puts him squarely in the crosshairs of a royal tyrant.

Author Susan Copperfield has created a marvelous fantasy diversion that is sure to provide a lavish and exciting new brand of escapism to anyone who is lucky enough to discover it. As a newcomer to the Royal States series, I was enchanted by the inventive worldbuilding and clever societal, cultural, and atmospheric changes that Copperfield’s alternative universe brings about, and she has clearly spent many novels already developing the dynamics of the cast of characters. It was easy to fall into the story though, and soon I was as invested in the intrigue as any die-hard fan could be, and enjoying Jack and Melody’s banter and interesting relationship type. I’m also a huge fan of cats, so there were many moments that brought a huge smile to my face during the reading experience. Overall, I would highly recommend Bonds and the Royal States series in general to drama fans looking for something accomplished and unique.

Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

The present is not kind to Indian half-breed John Dyer when demons from his past catch up to him in His Father’s Blood which is Book 2 in the Legends of the Family Dyer series by David W. Thompson. Trying to make a living and keep out of everyone’s way doesn’t work when John hears the cries of a young slave woman who is being attacked by white men. He is duty bound to step in and rescue her, but that leaves him prey for the men who don’t appreciate being interrupted. John manages to escape when he calls his animal familiar, a giant black bear. Finally settling on Devil’s Peak across the Maryland boarder in Virginia, John seems to have made peace with his past and present and is happy to lead a simple life.

Things end up out of control again as Sally Ann, an unusual young woman from the local town, sees what John can do and asks to learn his ways. Against his better judgement, John teaches Sally Ann basic healing remedies but after she finds his secret book, she demands to learn more. In the meantime, John meets Ada, the daughter of the traveling minister, and falls in love. Knowing that he is unacceptable to her father because of his heritage and abilities, he tries to stay away, but Ada’s love for him will not allow that. John’s life is not going to be easy, though, and things spiral out of control again. Will he ever be able to have a normal life?

Engaging, wonderfully written and full of interesting contrasts, His Father’s Blood by David W. Thompson gains your attention on the first page and doesn’t let go until the end. With a poignant comparison between good and bad on multiple levels, including the contrast of Christian practices and shamanism that can be used for good or evil, you experience plenty of thought-provoking ideas. The paranormal mystery is offset by a love story, but the pasts of all the characters also play a significant role in how they behave today, setting the stage for the action. His Father’s Blood is an excellent story and can be read alone, but since it is Book 2 in the Legends of the Family Dyer series, you might enjoy it more starting at the beginning with Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer, the story of John’s great-great-grandmother.