Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Apollo’s Raven is a work of mythological and historical fantasy fiction written for adults by author Linnea Tanner. Written as the opening novel to the Curse of Clansmen and Kings series, this sweeping narrative takes us back to the first century AD, at a time when Celts battle Romans in the fight to rule Britannia. Forbidden love and political power plays abound as Catrin, the daughter of a Celtic king, finds love in the arms of the enemy, but also discovers that she may be key to a Druid crusade that could destroy her own father if it comes to pass. So begins an epic tale with plenty of excitement, romance, and mystique.

I adored this book from start to finish for its non-stop atmosphere of authenticity that draws you deep into the world of early Britain and the constant battles for supremacy at the time. As a person of Celtic heritage myself, I was delighted to see the accuracy portrayed in the tribes, but also the more modern twist on dialogue and depiction that makes the book accessible, faster-paced and easier to absorb as a modern reader. History truly comes alive under the pen of author Linnea Tanner, but there’s also plenty of room left for characters to breathe and develop under watchful narration. The plot is stellar: well-thought-out and executed with a great sense of beat and pacing as each moment of both the romance arc and the curse is portrayed. Overall, Apollo’s Raven is an un-put-down-able fantasy adventure from start to finish.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Through the Redwood Hollow by Kenna Paige is the first book in The Zylandia Series. It all starts with a normal camping trip for two little girls and their family when an earthquake changes everything. Suddenly, cousins Molly and Jill find themselves in a different world. One where they meet pixies and giant triplets and where everyone seems to think they're here to save a pixie queen because a prophecy predicted their arrival. The two cousins turn to new allies as they embark on an adventure to save a queen and to find their way back home. As they make their way through this other world, they make new allies who quickly step up to help them.

Molly and Jill have a deep bond between them but the two are very different girls with a few years between their ages. This age difference creates a clash between them as Jill feels that, being older, she shouldn't be hanging around a little kid. Jill has an air of maturity about her in the sense that she thinks of herself as more grown up, enjoys reading about old cultures, and looks down on Molly for crying like a little kid. As they band together to try to find a way home, they face various dangers and obstacles which help them create a stronger bond. The other world they find themselves in is a place of wonder and magic with a variety of magical beings and prophecy. The adventure is fun as the girls have the role of savior placed upon their shoulders and they're faced with unusual things which start off with three giant triplet kids who think they're talking dolls.

Kenna Paige keeps the story light and with a tone that's reminiscent of a child's imagination. The names add to this sense of fun and fit perfectly into this unique world with unusual rhymes and sounds, including the triplets Lolly, Nolly, and Bolly, and the various beings Quizzlebin, Herzdon, and Philbellee. The story also includes an evil sorcerer for them to face and conquer their fears. The prophecy places a destiny upon them as the fate of the queen and others becomes their responsibility. Through the Redwood Hollow is a delightful read and a magical adventure about friendship, family, prophecy, and the journey home.

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

The Last Seer King is book two in the Shadow Sword series by S.J. Hartland, a well-plotted and wonderfully written epic fantasy with characters and worlds that transport readers. In a realm that is fast heading towards annihilation, heroes and brave warriors fight to restore the realm to its former glory. There is only one way for Roaran to beat the tyrant and it’s very painful, but will he tread the path he swore he never would and find redemption in doing what is right? Once a dangerous man and a slaver, Dannon is heeding a new call, one that compels him to change his old ways and embrace a new path. Val Arques is a powerful warrior, but he is in chains and all he yearns for is to find Kaell, but he only has one small opportunity to escape. Can he succeed?

A tale filled with action, dark magic, and powerful heroes fighting deadly enemies, The Last Seer King is replete with suspense and told in a style that is atmospheric, in prose that is delightful, and with characters that are real and compelling. What grabbed my attention as I opened the book was the author’s prose. It is filled with vivid descriptions and strong imagery. For instance, the description of Kaell caught up between the twilight zone of death and wakefulness is appealing to the senses: “But familiar sensations poured into him. Groping hands that pulled him towards wakefulness. The aroma of candlewax. The sight of dawn’s pink flush beyond a window. Cloth rubbing his skin. Even the weight of his head on a downy pillow.” The beauty of the language is one of the elements that set this narrative apart, both highly descriptive and insightful with poetic lines like “the silence sank into him, a beast of a thing that pawed his neck with unease as the clanging, pealing iron and the screams of men ebbed away.”

S.J. Hartland has a strong gift for plot and the shifts in points of view create suspense that gets the reader racing through the pages, always looking forward to what happens to the characters. The subplots are used to reinforce the suspense and sustain the reader’s interest in the story. This is a series I’d love to watch on screen. It is delightful and utterly gripping, with strong plot points and elaborately developed characters.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

The Vatic Confluence by Edie James is the second installment in the epic fantasy series The Ardent Halo, following in the footsteps of book one, The Steel Road. The story is told from multiple points of views, giving readers varied and fresh views of the expansive world of Arizware that James has built. The world has changed and the coming of a storm sets the stage for the continued adventures of Dreyah (a half-human, half-elf crossling) and Kennason, the lady steward, who is uncomfortable and precariously perched in a scheming royal court, waiting for her own opportunity to strike. This is a story of survival, not just of self and family, but of the people and the future. This is war.

Edie James delivers a masterful book two with The Vatic Confluence, further elevating two worthy female protagonists in a world that is depicted beautifully. The writing is clear and eloquent, and the characters dance comfortably within the narrative, the dialogue, and their internal thoughts—some of which provided my favorite ones in the book i.e. “The tongue talker is the shadow thief... Let the lady steward hear the truths he has stolen from her.” The battle scenes are so perfectly drawn that they unfold seamlessly, driving a reader from one scene to the next and unveiling a climax that explodes onto the page. Even ancillary characters come to life, but it's Dreyah and Kennason who, both jointly and independently, keep the pages turning. I would absolutely recommend this to readers who love first-rate epic fantasy.

Reviewed by Samantha Coville for Readers' Favorite

Author Apollo Villa-Real introduces us to a new world of magic, deception, and casinos in his novel, Henchman. This fast-paced tale follows H, who is a mob enforcer and magic wielder with a natural gift. During the annual convention of magic, a wielder is murdered. And the signs are pointing at the Syndicate, which has worked for so long to keep the peace. So H is sent on a journey to clear the Syndicate of any suspicion. But is a war unavoidable?

This is probably one of the top ten books I've read this year! It's not a short read, but it never dips into boring fluff content. It's continuously packed with excitement and intrigue. And the main character, H, is developed thoroughly. So much so that readers will connect with him and cheer him on. And the setting of a magical Las Vegas underworld is so unique that you can't help but keep reading in order to immerse yourself in the world author Villa-Real has created. Henchman keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times.

One of the things I respected about this book is that the magic system the author has developed is realistic and consistent. Nothing worse than trying to learn a magic system when it contradicts itself because the author couldn't make concrete laws. Even magic needs to follow rules! And Apollo Villa-Real does that beautifully here. And that's why I can confidently give it five stars! If you're looking for adventure and magic, look no further than Henchman.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Seize is a work of supernatural fiction penned by authors Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor, and forms the third book in the Magnus Blackwell series of novels. Lexie Arden has already been through a lot because of her supernatural gifts, not least being connected to the spirit of Magnus Blackwell because of them. In this new addition to the series, Lexie’s life is slowly coming apart at the seams because of the powers which Kalfu has bestowed upon her. Evil is growing, changing and hurting Lexie and those around her, and Magnus can see it happening. But when Lexie has the chance to be rid of Kalfu for good, it might be that the sacrifice proposed is too great a risk to take.

Combining voodoo, spirits, possession and magic into one cohesive plot is no easy feat, but authors Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor achieve an excellent balance and a plot which makes great sense in this novel. Seize is a relatively short read, made all the quicker by its excellent pacing, drama, action and intrigue. It also takes the time to delve deeper into the main character’s psyche and examine the damage that power, used for good or ill, can do to a person. Lexie’s struggle is well written, with effective dialogue and inner narration that endears us to her as readers. I also really enjoyed the developments in the cottage in the swamp, and the references to many horror-esque locations and atmospheres which give Seize its highly effective gothic, creepy vibe.

Reviewed by Chris Fischer for Readers' Favorite

Whoa! Can you say, "epic read?" Well, I certainly can after finishing the fantastic new book by author K.J. Simmill, Darrienia: The Forgotten Legacies Series, Book One. This book grabbed me from the very beginning, and wouldn't let go until I came to the very end. Encompassing a world unlike any that most readers may have previously encountered, the story follows protagonist Elly as she is given the quest of finding the missing Marise. But what is the true intent of her mission; is it for good or for evil? The god Night is determined to taste revenge, and will do almost anything to fulfill his desire. Elly soon realizes that there is much more than she ever expected to encounter on her path, and isn't sure if she'll ever find Marise, or ever safely return to her home for that matter. Will Elly succeed? You'll need to read this amazing book to find out.

I loved Darrienia. Loved. It. How's that for a review? Well, it's how I truly felt about this wonderful new book. Author K.J. Simmill has created characters that her readers will be able to connect with, will relate to, and will truly come to care about. If that isn't a hallmark of a great author, I'm not sure what is. Her world creation abilities are simply second to none. Any reader who enjoys a great work of fantasy, or any reader looking for a great epic read of fiction in general, should absolutely read this book. I highly recommend Darrienia, and I look forward to reading more from the incredibly promising author, K.J. Simmill, as soon as I possibly can!

Reviewed by Geoff Habiger for Readers' Favorite

Dagger’s Destiny by Linnea Tanner is the second book in the Curse of Clansmen and Kings series. The book picks up immediately after the events of the first book in the series, Apollo’s Raven. Set in the year 24 AD in Britannia, the young Princess Catrin must save her father, King Amren, from the wounds he suffered during the attack at the prisoner exchange. However, King Amren is more concerned about the curse his first wife, Rhan, placed upon him, and Catrin’s role in sparing the life of the Roman Marcellus. For King Amren, these are treasonous acts for which his daughter must be punished. Meanwhile, Marcellus, also wounded during the prisoner exchange, suffers at the hands of his fellow Romans and his father, Lucius Antonius, who see Marcellus as a traitor to Rome for letting Catrin lure them into an ambush. As Catrin and Marcellus struggle to save their own lives, they try to make their fathers understand the complex love that they have for each other. Each must keep war from breaking out between the Romans and the Cantiaci, while avoiding death for treason. At the same time, the curse placed on King Amren by Rhan has changed due to Catrin’s actions to save Marcellus, with dire consequences for the Cantiaci if the new curse can’t be interpreted in time.

I greatly enjoyed Dagger’s Destiny. In this part fantasy, part historical fiction tale, Linnea Tanner has woven together a wonderful web of romance, intrigue, mystery, and legend to create an entertaining and complex story. The author has done a superb job of creating a detailed and vibrant world of Celtic Britain at a time right before the invasion of the island by Emperor Claudius in 43 AD. She has taken the many myths and legends of the Celts and given them life through the characters of Catrin, Rhan, Marrock, and Myrddin. In each of these, the mythical powers of the ancient druids are brought to life. I loved how the magic of the druids was woven into the story, complementing the drama being created between Catrin’s desire to prove her loyalty to her father, and the machinations of Rhan and Marrock. At the same time, the political intrigue is played out in an epic fashion between King Amren, the Romans, and the Cunobelin tribe. Everything meshes together to give the reader a truly entertaining story of love, magic, and betrayal.

I highly recommend Dagger’s Destiny. For anybody with an interest in historical fiction, there is plenty to love in the setting Linnea Tanner has created. For those with an interest in epic fantasy, the characters and their interactions, each with their personal goals and motivations, and often in conflict with each other, Dagger’s Destiny is a book sure to keep your interest. Both genres are blended together into a seamless whole with outstanding results.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Awakened by Maya Daniels is Book 1 of the Semiramis series. Alexia hasn’t had much of a life; an awful boss, a neighbor from hell and a past she doesn’t want to dwell on. And she keeps dreaming about her own death. Now she is being hunted by, of all things, warlocks. A car accident puts her in hospital where she discovers new powers. And boy is she going to need them! Gods, goddesses, witches, reincarnation and the odd sexual encounter thrown in for good measure and Alexia’s life is about to change. Learning about her destiny and her past lives, Alexia now has to fight for her future but she has a tough job ahead of her.

Awakened: Semiramis Series Book 1 by Maya Daniels is primarily a fantasy story but could also be considered multi-genre. It is written in the first person, from the main protagonist's point of view, and feels much like you are listening to her telling you the story, living it with her. The story begins with a monologue but soon moves on to a roller coaster ride of epic proportions. There are scenes of a rather steamy nature scattered throughout, a few violent scenes and some language that I would say makes this an adults only book. The story picks up pace very quickly and holds a natural rhythm. The characters are developed in depth, so much so that you kind of feel you know them, particularly Alexia. The story ends in a way that makes you want to read the next book straightaway. Great fantasy story with a bit of medieval history thrown in for good measure.

Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite

The elves didn't believe in an afterlife; you were either dead or alive. So when Dreyah, the prophesied human/elf crossbreed whose death would spark war, was found murdered by some magical ritual, the thought of her returning had not been imagined. But death did not want her, yet. It was not her time, and thus it rejected her, sending her back to the living. Thoughts of the two bloods within her, giving her two lives, surfaced to explain away the strange phenomenon, but she had not been convinced. Dreyah knows she must avenge her murder, and seeks to find her place. She is both elf and human, and also the spark of war. She must choose a side, choose with which blood her loyalties lie.

The Steel Road by Edie James is the first book in The Ardent Halo series. It is a complex coming of age tale ripe with politics, agendas, deception, and magic, both made by machine and nature. Houses and factions are driven by their own beliefs, and the guidance of The Four and their chosen. But even those thought to be touched by the divine are not beyond manipulation. The Steel Road is immensely descriptive with impressive world building, along with myth, legend, history and lore. Magnificent scenery will leave vivid impressions, while alliances and agendas drive the complex threads of a very involved plot. This world is divided; elf, human, and the space between where war once raged. Each side is different, each side has its own levels of development, and the contrast makes for a fascinating transition in what I would have to call a steampunk high fantasy cross.

Engaging, immersive, and very much alive, this is a tale you won't soon forget. For readers who find it difficult to follow houses and alliances, there is a short comprehensive appendix at the end, ideal if you plan to read it over a few sittings and become hazy on some of the details. A strong first book in what promises to be a fascinating series.