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Recommend this book:
Christina
Chronicles of the Dark Star Child
Wesley Farris
2025 Finalist
386 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Christina: Chronicles of the Dark Star Child by Wesley Farris is a paranormal novel set against the backdrop of a looming darkness that threatens to engulf the world. A sinister force, born in Nazi Germany, seeks immortality and is now poised to unleash its power. However, hope lies in Christina, a child with the miraculous ability to generate life. She is protected by a man who navigates death through his dreams and another child who can enter minds. Together, they must battle the darkness that seeks to destroy her. Farris has crafted a story that is both haunting and captivating with a lot of interesting twists, taking the typical paranormal concept of a historic, looming darkness into new, original realms by introducing life, death, and dreams to the mix.
I loved the psychological aspects of the tale and I thought these were extremely well-realized and personalized to each character and their own special powers. Wesley Farris’s ability to evoke suspense and tension is clear in the confident pace of the narrative. There’s a keen sense of when to add a more atmospheric description and slow the pace down into a tense, moody scene, and then amp up the sharp description of the action to speed us into the next twist. Farris’s exploration of light versus darkness is both symbolic and thrilling, offering a profound commentary on people and what it means to face the darkest aspects of ourselves. Overall, I would certainly recommend Christina: Chronicles of the Dark Star Child to paranormal fantasy readers everywhere for its interesting, intellectual approach to storytelling and brilliantly paced plot.
Christina: Chronicles of the Dark Star Child by Wesley Farris is a paranormal novel set against the backdrop of a looming darkness that threatens to engulf the world. A sinister force, born in Nazi Germany, seeks immortality and is now poised to unleash its power. However, hope lies in Christina, a child with the miraculous ability to generate life. She is protected by a man who navigates death through his dreams and another child who can enter minds. Together, they must battle the darkness that seeks to destroy her. Farris has crafted a story that is both haunting and captivating with a lot of interesting twists, taking the typical paranormal concept of a historic, looming darkness into new, original realms by introducing life, death, and dreams to the mix.
I loved the psychological aspects of the tale and I thought these were extremely well-realized and personalized to each character and their own special powers. Wesley Farris’s ability to evoke suspense and tension is clear in the confident pace of the narrative. There’s a keen sense of when to add a more atmospheric description and slow the pace down into a tense, moody scene, and then amp up the sharp description of the action to speed us into the next twist. Farris’s exploration of light versus darkness is both symbolic and thrilling, offering a profound commentary on people and what it means to face the darkest aspects of ourselves. Overall, I would certainly recommend Christina: Chronicles of the Dark Star Child to paranormal fantasy readers everywhere for its interesting, intellectual approach to storytelling and brilliantly paced plot.
Recommend this book:
The Furious Others
Ashley Baker
2025 Honorable Mention
348 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Furious Others by Dr. Ashley Baker is a groundbreaking horror novel that boldly reimagines the true crime genre by shifting focus from the perpetrator to the victims of serial killer Jason LeDown. Rather than dwelling on the killer's dark motivations, the novel gives voice to ten unique women whose lives were cut tragically short, celebrating their dreams, passions, and the full spectrum of their humanity. Through detailed portraits of each victim, Baker creates a powerful narrative that challenges traditional horror conventions and refuses to let these women be reduced to mere statistics. The novel weaves together their stories with profound respect and sensitivity, creating a haunting tapestry that addresses larger truths about society's treatment of violence against women and the importance of remembering victims as full, complex human beings with rich inner lives and unrealized potential.
Author Dr. Ashley Baker brings her background in clinical psychology to bear in this innovative and deeply moving approach to horror fiction. I was particularly struck by her decision to center the victims' stories, creating a narrative that feels both revolutionary and necessary in today's literary landscape. Her evocative prose achieves a delicate balance between horror and empathy, making each character's story resonate with authentic emotion while never shying away from the darker aspects. What touched me most deeply was her ability to transform what could have been a typical true crime narrative into a powerful meditation on loss, memory, and the enduring impact of violence on communities, making audiences reflect deeply on how we remember and honor those whose lives are taken too soon. This poignancy is achieved naturally without taking us out of the plot, and Baker's rejection of the typical focus on the killer's psychology creates space for a more meaningful exploration of humanity in the face of darkness. Overall, The Furious Others is an essential and recommended read that will change how you think about the horror genre and its potential for meaningful social commentary.
The Furious Others by Dr. Ashley Baker is a groundbreaking horror novel that boldly reimagines the true crime genre by shifting focus from the perpetrator to the victims of serial killer Jason LeDown. Rather than dwelling on the killer's dark motivations, the novel gives voice to ten unique women whose lives were cut tragically short, celebrating their dreams, passions, and the full spectrum of their humanity. Through detailed portraits of each victim, Baker creates a powerful narrative that challenges traditional horror conventions and refuses to let these women be reduced to mere statistics. The novel weaves together their stories with profound respect and sensitivity, creating a haunting tapestry that addresses larger truths about society's treatment of violence against women and the importance of remembering victims as full, complex human beings with rich inner lives and unrealized potential.
Author Dr. Ashley Baker brings her background in clinical psychology to bear in this innovative and deeply moving approach to horror fiction. I was particularly struck by her decision to center the victims' stories, creating a narrative that feels both revolutionary and necessary in today's literary landscape. Her evocative prose achieves a delicate balance between horror and empathy, making each character's story resonate with authentic emotion while never shying away from the darker aspects. What touched me most deeply was her ability to transform what could have been a typical true crime narrative into a powerful meditation on loss, memory, and the enduring impact of violence on communities, making audiences reflect deeply on how we remember and honor those whose lives are taken too soon. This poignancy is achieved naturally without taking us out of the plot, and Baker's rejection of the typical focus on the killer's psychology creates space for a more meaningful exploration of humanity in the face of darkness. Overall, The Furious Others is an essential and recommended read that will change how you think about the horror genre and its potential for meaningful social commentary.
Recommend this book:
Skinwalkers
Book 2 of the VOLK Series
D. Werkmeister
2025 Bronze Medal
261 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Skinwalkers is the second book in the VOLK supernatural thriller series by D. Werkmeister. After a state trooper and a woman are brutally massacred on the highway in Arizona, state police detectives John Lightfoot and Ed Stackhouse delve into the investigation. They soon realize it's the handiwork of the Pima Predator. But the killings are unlike anything they've ever seen before. Meanwhile, FBI Special Agent Terri Watson, Detective Marc Peterson, and Agent Sarah Holmes from Philadelphia arrive in Phoenix to aid the local detectives. They receive further help from informant, friend, and werewolf, Alex Stepanova. As the skinwalker continues his killing spree, Terri and her team forge special blades to combat the supernatural threat. But they inadvertently put their own loved ones in danger. Now, Terri must look within to face off against this monster.
Laced with mystery, thrills, and action, Skinwalkers hooks you in from the first page and keeps you on the edge until the last. The plot is action-packed and moves at a blistering pace. Author D. Werkmeister infuses a healthy dose of suspense, sleuth mystery, and lore into the narrative, resulting in a delicious supernatural yarn that lovers of the genre will devour with relish. Each character has an important role to play in the story. I found myself particularly invested in Alex and Terri's relationship dynamic. I also found the lore about the skinwalkers very intriguing, and Terri's exploits toward the end had me cheering from my seat. All in all, it's a gripping supernatural thriller that readers will have a blast with. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't recommend it highly enough.
Skinwalkers is the second book in the VOLK supernatural thriller series by D. Werkmeister. After a state trooper and a woman are brutally massacred on the highway in Arizona, state police detectives John Lightfoot and Ed Stackhouse delve into the investigation. They soon realize it's the handiwork of the Pima Predator. But the killings are unlike anything they've ever seen before. Meanwhile, FBI Special Agent Terri Watson, Detective Marc Peterson, and Agent Sarah Holmes from Philadelphia arrive in Phoenix to aid the local detectives. They receive further help from informant, friend, and werewolf, Alex Stepanova. As the skinwalker continues his killing spree, Terri and her team forge special blades to combat the supernatural threat. But they inadvertently put their own loved ones in danger. Now, Terri must look within to face off against this monster.
Laced with mystery, thrills, and action, Skinwalkers hooks you in from the first page and keeps you on the edge until the last. The plot is action-packed and moves at a blistering pace. Author D. Werkmeister infuses a healthy dose of suspense, sleuth mystery, and lore into the narrative, resulting in a delicious supernatural yarn that lovers of the genre will devour with relish. Each character has an important role to play in the story. I found myself particularly invested in Alex and Terri's relationship dynamic. I also found the lore about the skinwalkers very intriguing, and Terri's exploits toward the end had me cheering from my seat. All in all, it's a gripping supernatural thriller that readers will have a blast with. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't recommend it highly enough.
Recommend this book:
Where Dark Things Grow
Andrew K. Clark
2025 Silver Medal
308 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Where Dark Things Grow by Andrew K. Clark is a slow-burn horror novel that gradually becomes a riveting and eerie tale of revenge, folklore, and survival. The story starts at a measured pace, immersing readers in the bleak, oppressive atmosphere of the 1930s Southern Appalachian Mountains. The story follows fifteen-year-old Leo, whose life is unraveling. With his father mysteriously missing and his mother slipping deeper into madness while trying to care for him, his sick sister Goldfish, and two good-for-nothing brothers, Leo’s world is spiraling out of control.
As the narrative progresses, the plot heightens by introducing an enchanted wulver—a creature from ancient folklore—that Leo discovers and naively believes he can control to exact vengeance on those who’ve wronged him. But what starts as an empowering quest for justice quickly turns dark as Leo realizes the horrifying consequences of unleashing the wulver. This is where the story kicks into high gear, and the stakes become terrifyingly real. Andrew K. Clark does an exceptional job of weaving elements of horror, folklore, and magical realism into a dark coming-of-age story that examines themes of loss, power, and redemption. While the beginning may take some time to pull you in, it’s worth sticking with it because the slow build pays off in a haunting and gripping journey that will keep you hooked until the end. Clark has a unique writing style that readers will appreciate. Where Dark Things Grow is worth reading if you’re a fan of atmospheric horror rich in folklore and moral complexity.
Where Dark Things Grow by Andrew K. Clark is a slow-burn horror novel that gradually becomes a riveting and eerie tale of revenge, folklore, and survival. The story starts at a measured pace, immersing readers in the bleak, oppressive atmosphere of the 1930s Southern Appalachian Mountains. The story follows fifteen-year-old Leo, whose life is unraveling. With his father mysteriously missing and his mother slipping deeper into madness while trying to care for him, his sick sister Goldfish, and two good-for-nothing brothers, Leo’s world is spiraling out of control.
As the narrative progresses, the plot heightens by introducing an enchanted wulver—a creature from ancient folklore—that Leo discovers and naively believes he can control to exact vengeance on those who’ve wronged him. But what starts as an empowering quest for justice quickly turns dark as Leo realizes the horrifying consequences of unleashing the wulver. This is where the story kicks into high gear, and the stakes become terrifyingly real. Andrew K. Clark does an exceptional job of weaving elements of horror, folklore, and magical realism into a dark coming-of-age story that examines themes of loss, power, and redemption. While the beginning may take some time to pull you in, it’s worth sticking with it because the slow build pays off in a haunting and gripping journey that will keep you hooked until the end. Clark has a unique writing style that readers will appreciate. Where Dark Things Grow is worth reading if you’re a fan of atmospheric horror rich in folklore and moral complexity.
Recommend this book:
Claws
The Legend Behind Texas's Most Bizarre Unsolved Murders
Timothy Gene Sojka
2025 Gold Medal
347 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Claws: The Legend Behind Texas’s Most Bizarre Unsolved Murders by Timothy Gene Sojka is a riveting blend of mystery, horror, and magical realism that transports readers to the haunting and gritty world of 1970s Texas. The novel unfolds a spine-chilling tale of survival, justice, and the unexplained through the eyes of Teeny, an eight-year-old girl battling unimaginable odds. The story starts with a murder that establishes the tone for a narrative filled with suspense and supernatural intrigue. Teeny, mute yet incredibly perceptive, becomes the heart and soul of the novel. Sojka masterfully uses her silence to amplify the tension, creating a protagonist who speaks volumes through her actions and internal struggles.
Timothy Gene Sojka vividly captures the harsh realities of life in a 1970s Texas trailer park, illustrating a reality where survival often hinges on determination and resourcefulness. The contrast between the dilapidated surroundings and the otherworldly elements creates compelling tension. The oppressive atmosphere of the trailer park, with its rusted metal homes and forgotten inhabitants, are silent witnesses to the horrors that unfold. Every word is integral to the story—there are no plot devices. The sensory details are excellently written, and the pacing is remarkably done. Sojka tackles the grim realities of human trafficking and child abuse, shedding light on these issues through the lens of fiction. He approaches the story sensitively, showing dedication to educating readers about societal issues. This literary masterpiece immerses readers in the depths of darkness while highlighting the strength of human resilience. Claws would make a compelling movie. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to curl up with an unforgettable, intriguing, good book.
Claws: The Legend Behind Texas’s Most Bizarre Unsolved Murders by Timothy Gene Sojka is a riveting blend of mystery, horror, and magical realism that transports readers to the haunting and gritty world of 1970s Texas. The novel unfolds a spine-chilling tale of survival, justice, and the unexplained through the eyes of Teeny, an eight-year-old girl battling unimaginable odds. The story starts with a murder that establishes the tone for a narrative filled with suspense and supernatural intrigue. Teeny, mute yet incredibly perceptive, becomes the heart and soul of the novel. Sojka masterfully uses her silence to amplify the tension, creating a protagonist who speaks volumes through her actions and internal struggles.
Timothy Gene Sojka vividly captures the harsh realities of life in a 1970s Texas trailer park, illustrating a reality where survival often hinges on determination and resourcefulness. The contrast between the dilapidated surroundings and the otherworldly elements creates compelling tension. The oppressive atmosphere of the trailer park, with its rusted metal homes and forgotten inhabitants, are silent witnesses to the horrors that unfold. Every word is integral to the story—there are no plot devices. The sensory details are excellently written, and the pacing is remarkably done. Sojka tackles the grim realities of human trafficking and child abuse, shedding light on these issues through the lens of fiction. He approaches the story sensitively, showing dedication to educating readers about societal issues. This literary masterpiece immerses readers in the depths of darkness while highlighting the strength of human resilience. Claws would make a compelling movie. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to curl up with an unforgettable, intriguing, good book.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/sledge-vs-the-labyrinth&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51rvXUHNqjL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Sledge vs. The Labyrinth is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller, and action subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to its many scenes of spine-chilling horror and gory action. Penned by author Nick Horvath, readers are introduced to Einarr "Sledge" Laukkanen, a modern-day gladiator on a ruthless mission to save his former ...){kind=link}
Sledge vs. The Labyrinth
Nick Horvath
2024 Finalist
329 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sledge vs. The Labyrinth is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller, and action subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to its many scenes of spine-chilling horror and gory action. Penned by author Nick Horvath, readers are introduced to Einarr "Sledge" Laukkanen, a modern-day gladiator on a ruthless mission to save his former lover, Kiira, from a dark web assassin network. The narrative unfolds as Sledge engages in a blood-soaked quest, unveiling the mysterious forces orchestrating the deadly game. The tagline "No one escapes the labyrinth" sets the tone for the relentless action, reminiscent of classic Hollywood noir mixed with pulpy action films of the 1980s.
Author Nick Horvath has crafted a truly relentless and jarring narrative akin to a bone-crunching action flick but with all the smooth nuance and narrative intelligence of a great noir masterpiece. Sledge emerges as the ultimate anti-hero, a throwback to gritty adventures that leave an impact but with a sharp modern attitude that readers will immediately get on board with. The novel delivers on its promise of being a tour de force of escapism, with every page resonating with bone-crushing intensity and the gory scenes offering a visceral, atmospheric reading experience. Horvath's storytelling, with dynamic dialogue reminiscent of classic action genres, offers a refreshing and unapologetic journey into the heart of darkness that you can’t stop reading once the action cranks up. Overall, if you crave action-packed narratives with a relentless protagonist, Sledge vs. The Labyrinth is a must-read for your horror noir pile that you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Sledge vs. The Labyrinth is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller, and action subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to its many scenes of spine-chilling horror and gory action. Penned by author Nick Horvath, readers are introduced to Einarr "Sledge" Laukkanen, a modern-day gladiator on a ruthless mission to save his former lover, Kiira, from a dark web assassin network. The narrative unfolds as Sledge engages in a blood-soaked quest, unveiling the mysterious forces orchestrating the deadly game. The tagline "No one escapes the labyrinth" sets the tone for the relentless action, reminiscent of classic Hollywood noir mixed with pulpy action films of the 1980s.
Author Nick Horvath has crafted a truly relentless and jarring narrative akin to a bone-crunching action flick but with all the smooth nuance and narrative intelligence of a great noir masterpiece. Sledge emerges as the ultimate anti-hero, a throwback to gritty adventures that leave an impact but with a sharp modern attitude that readers will immediately get on board with. The novel delivers on its promise of being a tour de force of escapism, with every page resonating with bone-crushing intensity and the gory scenes offering a visceral, atmospheric reading experience. Horvath's storytelling, with dynamic dialogue reminiscent of classic action genres, offers a refreshing and unapologetic journey into the heart of darkness that you can’t stop reading once the action cranks up. Overall, if you crave action-packed narratives with a relentless protagonist, Sledge vs. The Labyrinth is a must-read for your horror noir pile that you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Recommend this book:
Find Them
Julia Ash
2024 Honorable Mention
312 Pages
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Find Them by Julia Ash is a horror story you won’t forget in a hurry. Lot 16 was never to be sold according to the estate directive, but someone has overturned it. Now Dex and Nora have bought it, with plans to build a home overlooking the wildlife reserve and a lake. But this won't be the escape they want it to be. The land is haunted, with a troubled spirit leaving clues to a 70-year-old mystery. Nora has a choice. Either she must find the clues and solve the mystery, or risk losing everything and everyone she loves. Can she discover the truth, or will she and Dex be forced out of their idyllic home?
Find Them by Julia Ash is supernatural horror at its best. It has an unusual plot packed with plenty of suspense, mystery, supernatural chills, and lots of things that do more than go bump in the night. The account is written in a way that draws you in and is easy to read and follow. It is a dark story in places, and you’ll feel that as you read. The characters are wonderful – you’ll love them or hate them, there won’t be any in-between. The suspense builds gradually, ramping up to breakneck speed as you approach the ending, with lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The tale is quite an emotional one, not just a ghost story. You’ll be fully invested in it as Nora tries to solve the riddle involving the land. It may be gloomy in places, but it is also a fun read, and you’ll thoroughly enjoy it. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the supernatural, with plenty of drama and suspense along the way.
Find Them by Julia Ash is a horror story you won’t forget in a hurry. Lot 16 was never to be sold according to the estate directive, but someone has overturned it. Now Dex and Nora have bought it, with plans to build a home overlooking the wildlife reserve and a lake. But this won't be the escape they want it to be. The land is haunted, with a troubled spirit leaving clues to a 70-year-old mystery. Nora has a choice. Either she must find the clues and solve the mystery, or risk losing everything and everyone she loves. Can she discover the truth, or will she and Dex be forced out of their idyllic home?
Find Them by Julia Ash is supernatural horror at its best. It has an unusual plot packed with plenty of suspense, mystery, supernatural chills, and lots of things that do more than go bump in the night. The account is written in a way that draws you in and is easy to read and follow. It is a dark story in places, and you’ll feel that as you read. The characters are wonderful – you’ll love them or hate them, there won’t be any in-between. The suspense builds gradually, ramping up to breakneck speed as you approach the ending, with lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The tale is quite an emotional one, not just a ghost story. You’ll be fully invested in it as Nora tries to solve the riddle involving the land. It may be gloomy in places, but it is also a fun read, and you’ll thoroughly enjoy it. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the supernatural, with plenty of drama and suspense along the way.
Recommend this book:
Necrosis
C. L. Schneider
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
A horrible virus turns people into violent zombie-like creatures, causing necrosis in a matter of hours or days. Amy brings her boyfriend, Rusty, and her nine-year-old daughter, Lila, to her childhood home, hoping her elderly mother is not infected. But she realizes that she made a terrible mistake going there. The undead attack them, Rusty is dying, and Amy vows to save her daughter at any cost. The mother and daughter are on their own while the world collapses around them. Rusty's truck is parked a couple of blocks away. Amy and Lila must reach the truck to escape from the crowds of the undead. On their way to the truck, Amy stops at a destroyed shop to replenish their supplies. She hears the voice of a man trapped under the shelves, begging for help. Should Amy trust him? Necrosis by C. L. Schneider is an enthralling read for horror, dystopia, drama, and thriller fans.
C. L. Schneider's Necrosis is a captivating story of survival and the challenges of motherhood in extreme conditions. This is a page-turner thanks to the intensity of the narrative and the action-packed scenes. The beginning of the story is intriguing. Amy faces a pivotal moment in her mother's house. Our hearts race as she makes nearly impossible decisions to keep Lila safe. The virus spreads fast; Amy must adapt to the changing conditions even faster. Her race against time keeps us engrossed as we follow the events and the development of her character. The flashbacks show us a different Amy: weak and indecisive. The author explores the moral justifications behind decisions in dire or stressful circumstances in crafting this character. The twists and turns leave us numb. This book exceeds the expectations of horror and dystopia fans, and I highly recommend it.
A horrible virus turns people into violent zombie-like creatures, causing necrosis in a matter of hours or days. Amy brings her boyfriend, Rusty, and her nine-year-old daughter, Lila, to her childhood home, hoping her elderly mother is not infected. But she realizes that she made a terrible mistake going there. The undead attack them, Rusty is dying, and Amy vows to save her daughter at any cost. The mother and daughter are on their own while the world collapses around them. Rusty's truck is parked a couple of blocks away. Amy and Lila must reach the truck to escape from the crowds of the undead. On their way to the truck, Amy stops at a destroyed shop to replenish their supplies. She hears the voice of a man trapped under the shelves, begging for help. Should Amy trust him? Necrosis by C. L. Schneider is an enthralling read for horror, dystopia, drama, and thriller fans.
C. L. Schneider's Necrosis is a captivating story of survival and the challenges of motherhood in extreme conditions. This is a page-turner thanks to the intensity of the narrative and the action-packed scenes. The beginning of the story is intriguing. Amy faces a pivotal moment in her mother's house. Our hearts race as she makes nearly impossible decisions to keep Lila safe. The virus spreads fast; Amy must adapt to the changing conditions even faster. Her race against time keeps us engrossed as we follow the events and the development of her character. The flashbacks show us a different Amy: weak and indecisive. The author explores the moral justifications behind decisions in dire or stressful circumstances in crafting this character. The twists and turns leave us numb. This book exceeds the expectations of horror and dystopia fans, and I highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Wolf Esprit
Joseph Stone
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Wolf Esprit is a work of fiction penned by author Joseph Stone in the dark fantasy, adventure, and suspense subgenres. It is part of the Lykanos Chronicles collection but can be read as a standalone novel. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of sexual violence. This darkly enchanting journey through time and identity is set in 18th-century France. At its heart, the story follows Esprit Lenoir, a seventeen-year-old carnival performer hiding a profound secret: his queer desires that defy societal norms. His journey unfolds as he navigates the intricacies of love, magic, and self-discovery, all against the backdrop of a repressive society. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Esprit crosses paths with the enigmatic Baron and Baroness du Roussade, who help him embrace his dormant werewolf nature. This transformation allows him to break free from the constraints of human fear and embark on a unique journey through history, driven by love and a profound longing for freedom.
Author Joseph Stone masterfully combines elements of history, the supernatural, and the complexities of identity and queer expression to craft a gorgeous tale with darkness at its edge. As Esprit's wolf awakens, readers are drawn into a captivating tale that explores the timeless quest for belonging and the transformative power of love. One of the features I especially enjoyed was how relatable the LGBTQIA+ experience still is to modern audiences and how well it draws a parallel with the supernatural elements of the tale. Overall, The Wolf Esprit is a testament to the enduring appeal of stories that transcend time and place to delve into the depths of human experience and emotion, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to readers.
The Wolf Esprit is a work of fiction penned by author Joseph Stone in the dark fantasy, adventure, and suspense subgenres. It is part of the Lykanos Chronicles collection but can be read as a standalone novel. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of sexual violence. This darkly enchanting journey through time and identity is set in 18th-century France. At its heart, the story follows Esprit Lenoir, a seventeen-year-old carnival performer hiding a profound secret: his queer desires that defy societal norms. His journey unfolds as he navigates the intricacies of love, magic, and self-discovery, all against the backdrop of a repressive society. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Esprit crosses paths with the enigmatic Baron and Baroness du Roussade, who help him embrace his dormant werewolf nature. This transformation allows him to break free from the constraints of human fear and embark on a unique journey through history, driven by love and a profound longing for freedom.
Author Joseph Stone masterfully combines elements of history, the supernatural, and the complexities of identity and queer expression to craft a gorgeous tale with darkness at its edge. As Esprit's wolf awakens, readers are drawn into a captivating tale that explores the timeless quest for belonging and the transformative power of love. One of the features I especially enjoyed was how relatable the LGBTQIA+ experience still is to modern audiences and how well it draws a parallel with the supernatural elements of the tale. Overall, The Wolf Esprit is a testament to the enduring appeal of stories that transcend time and place to delve into the depths of human experience and emotion, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to readers.
Recommend this book:
Formosan Vampire
From the Chronicles of Seth Ardelean the Cro-Magnon Vampire
Amadeus Rockefeller
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Formosan Vampire: From the Chronicles of Seth Ardelean the Cro-Magnon Vampire is a work of fiction in the historical, fantasy, horror, and thriller subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to graphic content concerning violence, cannibalism, and fantasy horror. Penned by author Amadeus Rockefeller, this darkly fascinating work immerses readers in a unique blend of horror, history, and the supernatural. Set on Taiwan's death row, the novel introduces a foreign prisoner believed to be the leader of a vampire legion. The mystery deepens when the creature willingly faces execution. Eunice Wang, a young paralegal, unravels the enigma as the prisoner recounts a historical epic of his life as the Formosan vampire king.
Author Amadeus Rockefeller has crafted a smoothly-penned mix of horror and historical intrigue, creating a fascinating journey into a richly woven narrative. The storytelling prowess is evident in every moment of the confident narration, which seeks to delve deep into the human psyche as the protagonist recounts his immortal existence and the civilization he ruled. The historical backdrop, intertwined with vampiric lore, is really well-constructed with great detail, offering an eerily convincing look at history from an otherworldly perspective that fits in seamlessly. The vivid descriptions and well-developed characters populate the novel with interesting figures and strong presences, and I was impressed with the unique turns of phrase and dialogue of different people that we encounter. Rockefeller delivers a captivating story that transcends genres, making this novel a standout in the realm of vampire fiction. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Formosan Vampire as one of the best historical horror fantasies I’ve read this year.
Formosan Vampire: From the Chronicles of Seth Ardelean the Cro-Magnon Vampire is a work of fiction in the historical, fantasy, horror, and thriller subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to graphic content concerning violence, cannibalism, and fantasy horror. Penned by author Amadeus Rockefeller, this darkly fascinating work immerses readers in a unique blend of horror, history, and the supernatural. Set on Taiwan's death row, the novel introduces a foreign prisoner believed to be the leader of a vampire legion. The mystery deepens when the creature willingly faces execution. Eunice Wang, a young paralegal, unravels the enigma as the prisoner recounts a historical epic of his life as the Formosan vampire king.
Author Amadeus Rockefeller has crafted a smoothly-penned mix of horror and historical intrigue, creating a fascinating journey into a richly woven narrative. The storytelling prowess is evident in every moment of the confident narration, which seeks to delve deep into the human psyche as the protagonist recounts his immortal existence and the civilization he ruled. The historical backdrop, intertwined with vampiric lore, is really well-constructed with great detail, offering an eerily convincing look at history from an otherworldly perspective that fits in seamlessly. The vivid descriptions and well-developed characters populate the novel with interesting figures and strong presences, and I was impressed with the unique turns of phrase and dialogue of different people that we encounter. Rockefeller delivers a captivating story that transcends genres, making this novel a standout in the realm of vampire fiction. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Formosan Vampire as one of the best historical horror fantasies I’ve read this year.
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