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.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Storm Called is a work of paranormal intrigue, drama and romance penned by author Susan Copperfield. A Royal States novel, this is the earliest work of the chronology and features characters from the rest of the series, but can easily be read as a standalone book. Our central hero is Patrick Laycal, who lives in the Royal States of America where a magical caste system is enforced by those who have power and privilege. Pat is able to sense the emotions of horses, although his usual job is simply to wash dishes and dream of being a chef. But everything goes awry when Pat encounters a princess who is determined to call him into action, whether he wants to or not.

Jessica and Pat are interesting heroes providing larger than life experiences in this high flying paranormal romance with a fabulous magical twist. One thing I particularly enjoyed was how Texan the whole situation still was, from the barbecues to the horses and the attitudes of the characters. With the magical society laid over the old ways of America, the reading experience becomes lavish and exciting on every page, even in its smallest details. Author Susan Copperfield does a wonderful job of layering the romantic moments with other plot elements to present an amusing and exciting story line with plenty to discover, and the characters were easy to root for, and endearing despite their flaws. Overall I’d certainly recommend Storm Called to PNR fans who are looking for something exciting and original as their next read.

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

Gaelan’s War is the first book in the Gaelan Kelly series by Thaddeus McGrath, an opening that is powerful and full of promise, a novel with strong supernatural hints. Gaelan Kelly is a broken man. He is haunted by the horrors of war. He is still having nightmares inspired by the gory experience of war, and while he still struggles with his inner demons, he is irresistibly pulled into a battle he never saw coming. Humanity is threatened by a ruthless, unforgivable enemy and Gaelan is the last hope of protecting it. But can a broken man like him still have enough fight left in him to protect humanity from a fatal menace?

The author starts the story on a strong note, allowing readers to get a feel for the characters while introducing an element of the setting. The prose is beautiful and filled with vivid images: ‘Sam Carver had just finished another unsuccessful day of hunting in the Northern Virginia woods. “Goddamn deer scent isn’t worth a shit this year,” he mumbled under his breath.’ I particularly enjoyed how the author brings life to the writing, spreading smells, exotic sights and images throughout the narrative. The story has a powerful conflict and it starts with the hunter at the opening of the narrative, morphing into a phenomenal conflict involving the very existence of the human species. Gaelan’s War is tightly written, ingeniously plotted, and featuring a multi-faceted conflict that moves the story to unexpected places. I loved the gorgeous prose, the exciting characters, and the strong plot points.

Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite

What about Barnum? by Joss Landry is the first book in the Binary Bounty series, and an exciting blend of fantasy and sci-fi, a story of love, crime, and family. And there is more! Millicent “Millie” Brewer has learned to keep her distance from men who are tall and attractive after her divorce. But when the handsome, irresistible Barnum rescues her five-year-old son from drowning, she experiences strange feelings about him. When two murders occur in their hotel, Millie knows she could be in trouble when law enforcement officers ask for her passport.

Away from her mother, in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, can her mother, a reputable criminal attorney help her? In the stark darkness of the night, Barnum fetches Millie and her son and gets them away on his yacht. Now, things escalate when Barnum sweeps Millie off her feet and kisses her in what feels like a gentle, yet passionately consuming fire. As their worlds collide, and as their passions become stronger, Millie has to find out who Barnum really is, because the things that happen around him don’t make him seem human?

Joss Landry has the gift of teasing readers, of arousing the most repressed and hidden emotions in them, and then sending them on a ride that makes them look at the stars and wonder if they were not among the characters and part of the enticing story. Her characters are rock solid, well imagined, and there is no way the reader won’t feel like they are just next door. What about Barnum? has a strong and swiftly paced plot, believable and exciting characters, and a conflict that readers quickly invest in to find out how it plays out. An enjoyable read, indeed!

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Before I begin with the review of Shadow Play: A Dark Fantasy Novel - The Fae Games Volume 1 by Jill Ramsower, let me just comment and praise the cover of this novel. I have to admit that the cover lured me in and made me pick this novel more than anything else. That being said, the story and the way it was written are terrific, and I loved the way the author captured my attention and kept it. I loved Becca and how level headed she was, even when things were not going her way, and how she fought the oppression head on.

This is the story of Rebecca Peterson, a young woman who finally has the chance to follow her dreams and leave her old life behind. She grabs the opportunity with both hands and travels all the way to Ireland to achieve what she always wanted. However, reality comes crashing down when she realizes that some strange and terrifying creatures are descending to earth and devouring humans. Only Becca can see these creatures and understand what is happening around her. She gives a sigh of relief when she meets two guys who are also able to see them; however, she is not sure if she can trust either of them or if she should even trust them. Can Becca do something to stop these strange creatures? Can she trust anyone in this chaos?

This is an incredible novel that I simply devoured. It is fast paced and beautifully developed. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters and overall flow. There was no flaw that I could find and I simply laid back and relaxed while reading this action-packed novel. In fact, I can see this novel becoming a movie because it has the potential to attract a lot of fans. The character development was amazing and believable and I enjoyed the tension between Becca, Ronan and Lochlan. I can’t wait for the next novel in the series. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars! Simply brilliant.

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

Twenty-five-year-old Robert has a hard time keeping his job at Best Buy, Portland, Oregon, and he hasn’t changed his job role since he started with the company — staying as a repair agent and working in the back room, removing various forms of malware from computers — because of his lack of people skills. He is not just good at talking to people. Even when his friend, David, visits, Robert has to think if David is welcome or not and brings out his timer, ready to unceremoniously send his friend away when their time is up. In The Seventh Guard: Destiny Expires, a man who seems to live on the edge of reality, without fully getting involved, decides to write a harmless program and install it on 100 of the computers he’s repaired. This is just the beginning of a path fraught with danger and a powerful adversary that will make Robert question everything he’s ever believed in, a journey that will test him beyond limits.

Francis Halpin’s story is one of an unusual character following a message that takes him on an adventure filled with danger. This is a compelling tale with one of the best characters I have read in science fiction. The author creates a profile of the protagonist, a man who is very intelligent, but who feels more connected with the computers he works with than with his girlfriend, Jennifer, who strangely seems to cherish his “sharp sense of humor.” The writing is beautiful, the humor filling the pages, and the suspense skillfully designed to keep the reader’s attention from one engaging page to the next. From the very first page, one notices something strange about the protagonist — a loner, but one who is extremely gifted. The elegant prose grabs your attention from the first page, thanks to its fluidity. Robert is a character you can’t ignore. He is unique and seems not to care about it. He is a risk taker who creates a sense of excitement in readers who watch him doing what he knows best. The Seventh Guard: Destiny Expires is utterly entertaining, one of the few books with an irresistible narrative voice and a strong setting.