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 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 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 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 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 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 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.