Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite

I just love new stories built around Greek mythology. Greek mythology gave me so many hours of pleasurable reading as a kid and I appreciate that. I have read a lot of Greek mythology. I mean the original tales from Greek history and religion. I have read even more stories that are based on Greek mythology or some of its characters. There are so many ways you can transmute these tales and these characters into something totally new and fresh. A lot of writers have done this. Some have done it really well and made a lot of money. I have read these stories and/or seen them on the big screen. I have never seen or read Greek mythology based fiction done better than Olympia by Kris Kramer, except for a book I read by Dan Simmons, a long time ago. Dan Simmons writes really well. Stephen King says so. I say Kris Kramer writes well too.

I was in when I read the title. I will stay in because Olympia is a great book. It is book one of a series called Olympus. I intend to follow this series. I know I will enjoy it. The story is interesting. The writing is good, and this world is intriguing. But most of all, I like Anthony Kensom. He is my kind of hero. He is young, but has been hardened by a rough life. This has made him strong and smart, but it has not made him bitter or callous. The story is great. The writing is great, and the hero is great. What more could you ask for?

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Cliff Walking is a contemporary literary fiction novel written by Stephen Russell Payne. Prominent Maine artist, Francis Monroe, had been keeping a daily vigil ever since his wife, Rachael, had disappeared a year earlier while windsurfing in Penobscot Bay. He would blow out the whaler's lamp he kept lit at night and head out into the bay to the spot where she had disappeared. As he watched the sun rise, he remembered his wife's love of the early morning, and the loving moments they shared. But this morning, as he rowed his skiff back to shore, he noticed a stranger on his property -- a young boy stood silently examining the picture he'd left on his easel. It bothered Francis that the kid was studying his rendering of his wife's body, particularly her breasts. Then, when he spoke, Francis felt he was in the presence, somehow, of a kindred spirit, an odd thing for him to feel after so long apart from the rest of the world, particularly children. The boy's name was Stringer, and he and his mother had fled the California coast and landed up here on the rocky shoreline of Maine in an attempt to finally free themselves of Leland, Stringer's violently abusive dad. Francis recognized Stringer's artistic gifts and began to mentor and guide him. Then he met Stringer's mom, Kate, and between the mother and her son, Francis began to live again.

Stephen Russell Payne's literary fiction novel, Cliff Walking, is one of those genre transcending works that will appeal to so many and on so many different levels. It's a marvelous character study of the grieving widower artist whose soul had been buried under the waves with his wife since her disappearance. Francis is apart from the world until he sees that image of the slightly chubby boy standing before his easel. Payne's also crafted a stunning coming of age novel that focuses on Stringer, who comes of age in both the most trying and exhilarating of times. Kate's tale is one of redemption and healing. The three of them are towering presences in this tale, joined later by the trial attorney who sees in his defense of Stringer a chance to make right his own son's untimely demise. Payne had me hooked into the world of Winter's Cove, an idyllic small town nestled among the rocky shores of coastal Maine, but then he totally astonished me by including in this most impressive tale one of the most exciting and moving legal thrillers I've read. I was unable to tear myself away from the dialog as the prosecution and the defense called forth their witnesses. When the jury announced that they had reached a verdict, I was holding my breath. Cliff Walking is a brilliant debut novel that left me satisfied, yet definitely hungering for more from this gifted writer. It's most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Sarah Rollins for Readers' Favorite

Angie Gallion’s Intoxic is an intoxicating coming of age story that will appeal to many! The main character, Alison, is sixteen years old, with all the challenges of that age group – love, family, peer groups, school and more. The thing is, most of us could understand these challenges, and it makes for a teen style story. However, this author takes the story further and, as a reader, I was completely engaged in the character herself - we feel her struggles with her home life and her mother, as well as her self esteem and confidence. That internal struggle of whether you are meant to live the same life as your parents or find a different path is one that many young kids or teens will identify with quickly.

Angie Gallion’s style is a definite page turner. Her characters are real and authentic, and her style of writing is easy and comfortable. Intoxic is written in Alison's world, and you find yourself trapped inside her head, and longing for a positive outcome for this troubled but smart and heartfelt young woman. This is the first book in a potentially strong series of novels, and the way the author ends the book is both satisfying, but also clever, leaving the reader seeking to know more about Alison’s plight and what she may confront as she faces the next stage in her life. Without a doubt, the author has found her niche with this character and this storyline, and I would recommend this book to any reader. I hope to read more in this series.

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

If you are a fan of sci-fi, futuristic, or dystopian stories, or novels that echo the game of power like Divergent, then Age of Order by Julian North would be the perfect fit for you. Set against the backdrop of a futuristic, dystopian era, this novel explores the inner workings of power and how a select few would do anything to keep it to themselves. The story explores themes that include the misuse of power, the inequality of men and women, and intrigue at the highest level. It’s a story that begins with a gunshot in the night, progresses through high-scale conflict, and ends on a very high note, leaving the reader rattled and entertained beyond measure.

When Daniela Machado gets the coveted slot at the elite Tuck School, she is thrilled and delighted to be among the chosen few to escape the hardship that is characteristic of Bronx City, but she is just about to discover a new world, luxurious but flawed with avarice. She could just become a statistic that contributes to the greed of those in power and that would help them keep power to themselves. That is, if she doesn’t act fast. Will she take the chance to change things or will she be absorbed into the system and be contaminated by its darkness?

Age of Order is a story with beguiling characters, a fascinating plot, and a conflict that will keep readers awake until they witness the denouement. The writing is great and the action intense. Your pulse will rise as you follow Julian North’s characters. I couldn’t ask for more from a book; it was an exciting and really thrilling ride. And what is most astounding is that readers will relate to the story and the drama as it is being played out in the real politics of our time.

Reviewed by Robin Goodfellow for Readers' Favorite

Clemenceau's Daughters by Rocky Porch Moore is an eerie, Southern Gothic novel that details the blood-soaked legacy behind cracks of innocence. The book is separated into three parts. The first part introduces Debbie, a young girl with a strange ability that has led to the death of both her babysitter and her beloved grandfather. The second part reveals the frightening history of why that ability attracts so much tragedy, and demonstrates just what happens when hatred goes unchecked. The third part finally describes the results of such a past, with Debbie losing yet another loved one. I loved the parallels Moore has drawn between the mothers in the book. Both Maisie and Carolyn did whatever they could to secure their daughter's happiness; Maisie in ensuring Clemenceau's fortune and reputation, Carolyn in keeping Debbie safe. But despite their efforts, that bittersweet ending still tied their stories together. From one secret to another, the determination of the mothers to try to secure their daughter's future was a consistent idea in the book, which made the prologue all the more terrifying.

I also enjoyed the symbolism. The ominous mountain, the foreboding deaths, and even the tree at the beginning of the book; with each different symbol comes yet another warning about the dangers lurking nearby. Even the colors and details were haunting; the pink walls and wide-eyed dolls in Debbie's room, supposedly every girl's dream room, something she can relish in the follies of her youth. But even so, the horrors of that legacy still tore that room down and shoved her into the open, with a large target painted on her back. The Southern Gothic feel forced me into a dreamlike daze, as Moore lulled me into a false sense of security through the eyes of a child. Coupled with the shattered innocence that hid the sinister shadows beneath, Moore showed the age-old lesson of what happens when hatred goes unchecked. I would thus recommend this book to readers who loved The Magnolia League series and Beautiful Creatures.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

The Old Man And The King by Joe Corso is an action packed entertainer that revolves around Lom, a seventy-two-year-old Korean War vet, originally from the hills of Tennessee, who is now settled in New York after being discharged from service. Toby, the King, meets Lom at the Good Burger restaurant in midtown Manhattan as he escapes from a bloody shootout on Second Avenue. Lom misses his old life of adventure, danger, and intrigue, and he is interested in finding out who is trying to harm the King. Readers will be gripped as the story takes them on a ride through different places, finally leading them to jewel thieves and gun runners. Will the Old Man be able to save the King?

The author weaves a good plot filled with suspense, intrigue, mystery, and a hint of romance between the Old Man and Martha, which gives a gentle touch amid all the action in the story. All the characters are well portrayed and strong and they leave a lasting impression in the minds of readers. The author handles the meeting between Lom and Toby well and, along with Charlie, they add to all the fun and action in the story.

I enjoyed the story with all its characters and settings. It is an amazing and absolutely novel idea to have a seventy-two-year-old hero in the story. There is an element of urgency that in turn gives a good pace and movement to the plot and makes readers curious to know what is going to happen next. It is definitely a good read for all readers who love action and suspense stories.

Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

Nick Hudson is a former military man and retired police officer who just goes through the motions of living day by day in Baroota: The Hunting Ground by Zach Fortier. In this first book of the Director Series, Nick and his wife, JoAnn, meet her friend Jessica for dinner to meet Jessica’s new boyfriend, Jay. Given his suspicious nature, Nick feels that Jay is rather strange, especially when Jay asks Nick how he feels about ‘…women and children being kidnapped and forced into slavery overseas.’ Jay goes on to explain the Director’s formation of a new task force that will work outside of government interference to hunt down and bring these criminals to justice and invites Nick to join. After tremendous soul searching, Nick agrees but what he discovers once he is brought together with other team members is a shocking surprise. Along with Nõnkos Zia (Nõn) who is a survivor of human trafficking herself, Nick finds himself in the fight of his life. Will they win the dangerous game the Director has set up or will they become victims themselves?

Zach Fortier has created an amazing world in which the good guys have to fight for their lives against tremendous odds. Baroota: The Hunting Ground is Book One of the Director Series which promises tremendous action and well developed characters. Nick and Nõn are kindred spirits – two people who have seen the worst life has to offer – and they want to try to make a difference by removing some of this ugliness from the world. Great book! Quite exciting and hard to put down. The dialogue is tight and the descriptions are gripping. Excellent dialogue (with occasional bad language) and nail-biting action keep you turning the pages to see how these two may survive. Baroota: The Hunting Ground is definitely a must-read for fans of fast-paced action in thriller fiction.

Reviewed by Katelyn Hensel for Readers' Favorite

Crystal Ships by Richard Sharp is a new GREAT in the way of the epic American novel. Reading mainly as historical fiction with layers of drama, critique, and a general human focus, this book is deeply emotional while maintaining a kind of grace and fluidity that is rare. There was so much going on in this book that I could barely keep track of all the action. What a wild ride! There was so much depth, so many characters, and just a general sense of packing so much information into a little over 350 pages that I was amazed. I felt like I learned something just from the sheer amount of information that Sharp managed to include.

Richard Sharp paints a wonderfully detailed picture with his writing style. Full of a bittersweet combination of idealism and a cultured cynicism, this book is one that will be enjoyable for everyone, from the literary critic to the casual Sunday reader. The character development was what really got me, because with about seven main characters, it's hard to make them all realistic and not cutouts. Sharp did a wonderful job crafting individual personalities and really great dialogue! At times, keeping track of the several friends throughout time and space was a bit difficult, but the writing was excellent so I never felt like I was pushing myself to read and understand. Crystal Ships is one of those books that stays with you and keeps you thinking about it long after you've turned the last page.

Reviewed by Tracy A. Fischer for Readers' Favorite

In a wonderful book by debut author Taylor Hardman, Keeping It Cool is a story that will suck readers in from the very start and keep them obsessively turning the pages all the way through to the very end. Follow the story of Bill Evans, a man who finally feels that he just might have his life on track. He’s doing well with his heating and air conditioning business, and the remodels that he’s working on in the old house he bought on auction are turning out well. But when he finds an old box of letters and meets a lovely young history teacher, Amelia, who is willing to help him do some research on the events of the letters, his life takes a definite U-turn. Will Bill’s focus remain on his business and staying on the straight and narrow? Or have the letters he’s found taken him down a new path that might be even more important? You’ll need to read the book to find out!

I so enjoyed Keeping It Cool. This well-written story is lovely in its sweet romance, and readers will find themselves both laughing and wiping away a tear in places. Author Taylor Hardman has done a wonderful job in creating the characters of Bill and Amelia. Readers will be able to relate to, connect with and truly care about these two, and will continue to think about them long after the last page has been read. If that isn’t a hallmark of a great author, I’m not sure what is. Any reader who enjoys a sweet romance or just a nice fictional story in general should definitely pick up this book. I highly recommend Keeping It Cool, and look forward to reading more from the very promising author, Taylor Hardman, as soon as possible!

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

An Absence of Faith is a suspense novel by David W. Gordon. Detectives Kate Manning and her partner, Mike Cooper, have a serial killer on their hands, who's preying on single young women in New York City. Each victim was found in her apartment with her heart missing, and the accompanying mutilations have them concerned over the increasing anger and rage the perpetrator is displaying. Father Gregory Sloan knows all too well who that perpetrator is. His younger brother, Victor, brings him the grisly trophies he collects and neatly wraps in gift boxes, and he presents each one to his hapless brother in the confessional. Victor doesn't believe in God; after all, how could God let his mother be a junkie and die instead of being there for him? Victor has promised that he will keep on killing -- and bringing his brother those trophies. Victor knows Gregory can't help but honor the promise he made to his mother to protect his younger brother, and he's bound by his promise to God to honor the secrecy of the confessional.

David W. Gordon's police procedural novel, An Absence of Faith, is dark and unsettling. Gordon indicates in his foreword that this novel was written at a time when the death of a loved one caused him to have a crisis of faith, and indeed, both Victor, the serial killer, and Kate, the cop who's on his trail, question whether God exists, and if he does they each wonder why God allows the bad stuff happen. The suave, affluent and polished Victor, whose carefully arranged exterior hides untold depths of anger and madness, is a chilling and dark killer, and his insanity lends a gritty atmosphere to this thought-provoking novel. I found the police procedural aspect of this story to be quite effective, and enjoyed watching as the two partners work to reconcile their professional and personal relationships. An Absence of Faith is a taut, well-constructed and fast-paced novel of suspense, and it's highly recommended.