Reviewed by Saifunnissa Hassam for Readers' Favorite

Edmond Thornfield’s novel, Asterios and the Labyrinth (Mythos of Knossos), is a reimagined, action-packed mythological and historical story, set in ancient Krete (Crete) during the period of the Bronze Age Minoan civilization. When King Minos dies, his son Asterios succeeds him as the ruler of the Kingdom of Labrys. Prince Phaistos of Archanes is commander-in-chief of King Asterios’ army. Asterios and Phaistos are also lovers, a relationship sanctified by the goddess Ishtar. However, both Asterios and Phaistos must protect their bloodlines and kingdoms through legitimate heirs. Two rebel lords, Koronos and Lykosander, are strongly opposed to King Asterios’ rule and threaten war. When Phaistos rides to Archanes to join Asterios’ army, he is captured by the rebel lords. Asterios calls on his allies to help defend Knossos, while he leads his men to fight Koronos and Lykosander, and to free Phaistos. The story grows more complex, driven by power struggles, and Asterios’ fierce determination to rescue the love of his life, Phaistos.

I found myself immersed right from the start with the complex characters and their compelling, thought-provoking, multilayered story of love, duty, identity, and sexuality. I loved the archaic-style prose, turning this ancient Greek tale into an intense political, social, and moral drama. The dialogues, thoughts, emotions, as well as the descriptions of sieges, skirmishes, and battles, brought ancient Greece and the Minoan civilization vividly to life. I particularly liked the development of Asterios and Phaistos as the story progressed. The political and military conflicts were handled realistically, evocative of ancient Greek times; a compelling and immersive backdrop to Asterios’ character development, from prince to a powerful and courageous king. I liked how Phaistos's incredible courage, fierce love, and loyalty to Asterios are expressed in actions, emotions, and thoughts when he is captured by the rebel lords. The story was thrilling when love, loyalty, and hope were tested to the extreme in desperate situations when escape was virtually impossible. I highly recommend Edmond Thornfield’s Asterios and the Labyrinth to readers who enjoy mythological and historical fiction, with complex characters, stories of identity, power struggles, and sexuality, and compelling moral and social issues.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Ellen Rachlin’s Enheduanna’s Song From the Sands is set in Mesopotamia during the late third millennium BCE, where Enheduanna, born Ana, is sent by her brother King Rimush to take power as the high priestess in Ur, a city shaped by unrest and resistance to the Akkadian rule. Her journey turns violent when she is seized by forces loyal to a rival claimant who rejects her power and is bent on using her as a symbol of opposition. After surviving brutal captivity, she enters Ur, determined to establish control through temple leadership and political direction while facing hostility from the priesthood and networks loyal to her enemies. As rebellion spreads under Yahatti, who moves to weaken her influence, Enheduanna must secure loyalty among a divided population while redefining her role in a city where power is never settled.

Enheduanna’s Song From the Sands is a sweeping and gorgeous historical novel set in the Akkadian period with true, immersive detail. Rachlin's period construction shines through in the temple economies depicted with grain allocation and metal tracking, and ceremonial rituals linked to divine representation and royal legitimacy. Rachlin doesn't give Enheduanna an easy ride, and because of this, we see her grow into herself. I love Etana, who is defined as much through his action and loyalty as the horrid Yahatti is vicious and destabilizing. The settings are textured and visual, from the giparu in Ur that serves as both residence and administrative center, to the Ekur in Nippur with its ritual movement within sacred space. Readers who have enjoyed the likes of Michelle Moran and Margaret George will delight in the fresh voice of Ellen Rachlin. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Wolves of Hastings by Logan D. Irons follows Ulf, a Norse warrior with the power to heal and transform into a wolf. He joins King Harold’s army alongside Arnulf, a young Christian archer who once served the same cause. Bound by conflicting oaths, the two are scouts looking out for William of Normandy’s invading force. They expose the scale of the Norman threat, forcing Harold to march south despite exhaustion and dwindling strength. As the English army gathers at Senlac Hill, Ulf’s secret nature risks discovery while rival wolfskins hunt their own kind to survive under Christian rule. Caught between loyalty, survival, and the memory of old gods, Ulf fights both mortal kings and supernatural hunters through the final days before Hastings, preparing for a battle that will decide England’s future and the fate of his dying kin.

Wolves of Hastings by Logan D. Irons delivers a striking vision of loyalty, faith, and the fight to preserve the power of ancient ways in a changing England. The author is brilliant at writing textured settings, from the smoke-filled halls of Jórvík to the war camps of Harold’s army, where men prepare to face William of Normandy. Ulf is a warrior that you want to root for. As a reader who adores alternative history but can rarely find solid supernatural stories worth the time commitment, Iron's creation of the Order of the Stag and Cross folds beautifully into the genuine knighthood orders of the time. The battle scenes are spectacular, yet the heart of the book lies in its portrayal of loyalty tested by belief and survival. Overall, this is a finely told tale that rewards readers with its grit and spirit.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Wolf of the Nordic Seas by Jennifer Ivy Walker is the second book of the Valiant Vikings series, preceded by book one, Dragon of Denmark. In the first installment, Skårde, the illegitimate son of King Harald Bluetooth, is a Viking warlord known as the Dragon of Denmark, famous for his battles and raids. When his father arranges his marriage to Ylva, the daughter of Richard the Fearless, Skårde views it as exile. Ylva, a Druid priestess with prophetic abilities, must leave her village for this union. As the Frankish king attacks Normandy, Skårde forms an alliance with magical beings to reclaim Richard's fortress. Njörd, known as the Wolf of the Nordic Seas, grew up mastering the fjords of Norway. Renowned for his strength and speed, he led successful Viking raids across vast territories. A seidr vision from a völva reveals that his future and his destined mate lie on the coast of Normandy. Elfi Thorfinnsdóttir, a shieldmaiden seeking vengeance for her family, allies with Njörd and Richard the Fearless. Together, they discover their fated connection tied to an ancient prophecy.

I was fortunate enough to have lost myself in book one of the Valiant Vikings series, so when Jennifer Ivy Walker's Wolf of the Nordic Seas fell into my lap, saying I was thrilled is an understatement. This book continues in Walker's trademark ability to mix brilliant world-building, mouth-watering sizzle, and characters that, frankly, become people you adore. Njörd's strength as a warrior, a ruggedness that makes his deep sensitivity all the more delicious, and the bonding of the mystical white wolf is the icing. Njörd’s relationship with Elfi, who is his fated mate and, admittedly, my absolute favorite character, is beautiful. Elfi has her own storyline, and the prevalence of knowing of her sea goddess grandmother, Rán, feels right at home in the book as a whole. Overall, Walker's textured history and atmosphere, whether it is a sacred grove or ethereal caves, create a world that feels both mystical and real, pulling readers into another unforgettable journey. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by K T Bowes for Readers' Favorite

In Badb: The Morrigan by Corina Douglas, Badb’s persona of the fearless and undefeated Battle Crow is the result of childhood trauma, and the queen’s hatred and disgust for her daughter’s mixed Formorian and Tuatha heritage. Denied love and made into a formidable weapon of hatred, Badb is a pawn in her mother’s destructive armory. Snatched from her sisters and forced to marry the warlord of her sworn enemy, Badb must kill him within six months of her vows. She never expected that his influence over her would rival the queen’s extensive reach, or that she would fall for his hidden charms. But when he finds out who she really is, or what she did to his family as the Battle Crow, she knows her ill-fated marriage will end in her death instead of his.

This mythological romance novel contains the perfect ingredients for an engaging read. I raced through this story, quickly immersed in the enemies-to-lovers passion, the intrigue, and Badb’s fearless exploits as the Tuatha Battle Crow. She is fierce and unrelenting, everything I want in a powerful female warrior. Her ruthlessness took me by surprise on numerous occasions. The theme of the novel centers around the crow mask, in which Badb fights, signifying the many other faces she hides behind in the struggle to find her true self. The prophecy is that she will bring either “ruin or salvation,” and Badb’s story arc reflects her choice. I loved the detailed descriptions of the Formorian cave system and the emotional energy that CorinaDouglas infuses into the narrative. The fear and heaviness evoked is breathtaking. A stunning read.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

In Persephone's Pool, a futuristic crime thriller by Marie Montine, in the 22nd century, after a global revolt against AI, spirituality is once again on the rise. While aiding a murder investigation for the Intergalactic Colonies Committee on Pluto, Eloise Mayer discovers someone was impersonating her partner as he was already dead hours ago. With her new partner, Janice Argento, Eloise joins Project Labyrinth to investigate several ritualistic murders all over the solar system, including Earth, that seem to be related to ancient mythology. However, when she discovers her late husband's body, Eloise realizes that she has somehow embroiled herself in a catastrophic conspiracy, which may put her and her loved ones in grave danger. To uncover the truth, Eloise will have to make the ultimate sacrifice. Meanwhile, Janice will realize her destiny.

A scrumptious mix of suspense, mystery, and intrigue makes Persephone's Pool a delightful treat that sci-fi and crime lovers will relish. It's one of the most unpredictable science fiction/murder mystery tales I've read this year. Author Marie Montine repeatedly pulls the rug out from under your feet with a plot featuring multiple twists and turns you never see coming. The reveals are unexpected and shocking. What impressed me is how Montine provides each character with enough agency and distinct personality traits so that the reader is completely invested in their story arcs. The setting feels believably futuristic, which makes the story very immersive. You don't know if your favorite characters will make it out alive, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Sci-fi and mystery readers shouldn't miss this one!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Eruption I: The Scene Chronicles by B.C. Young is an epic fantasy novel set on the ancient planet of Kawa, once the heart of cosmic civilization. The story follows two maidens, May and Ray, who embark on a mystical quest to rediscover the lost glory of the Plumians and unlock the secrets of their planet's divine past. As they traverse the landscape, unraveling the mysteries of Kawa's origins and the legacy of Elyon Farron, they confront profound questions about existence, destiny, and the power of the gods.

Author B.C. Young's world-building is the first thing that leaps out at you from this epic novel, and it is both intricate and expansive at once, with each small detail adding to a bigger picture that draws readers into a richly detailed universe with a deep sense of history. The author knows their world inside and out, offering every nuance of not just the sociopolitical history of the world, but the attitudes that the characters adopt because of it, especially the central protagonists who yearn for so much more than life is currently offering them. Young's character development is compelling, making May and Ray’s journey of self-discovery both relatable and captivating with great dialogue interplay between them. The up-close narration style lets us sit on their shoulders through every surprise, heartache, and triumph. I also really enjoyed the cosmic elements of the work, blending mythology and philosophy in a highly original way that elevates this fantasy novel above many typical works and offers something that holds up a realistic mirror to our own world on many levels. Overall, I’d certainly recommend Eruption I to fans of epic fantasy everywhere as a deeply involved and highly rewarding read.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Nicholas Varner’s Warriors of the Red Wolf is a beautiful, captivating young adult novel that immerses readers in a vibrant, mythical world influenced by legends and the timeless battle between good and evil. The story unfolds through the voice of Uncle Ho-e, whose storytelling transports readers into the lives of a nomadic tribe seeking a new home amid trials, betrayals, and revelations. With elements of magic, loyalty, and cultural heritage, this richly woven tale will appeal to young readers and those young at heart. The narrative is framed as a story passed down to younger generations, emphasizing themes of oral tradition and the preservation of cultural identity. Ho-e’s warmth and humor as a storyteller balance the intensity of the challenges faced by the tribe. Central to the plot is Mia, a gifted young leader who embodies resilience and wisdom as she interprets the whispers of the Sacred Wind. Her journey, alongside characters like Tumas the healer, the comical yet courageous Ho-e, and loyal canines Yoni and Yote, adds depth and relatability to the epic quest.

The imagery is striking, painting landscapes of arid deserts, lush grasslands, and towering mountains with poetic prose. Nicholas Varner skillfully explores universal themes such as the cost of greed, the value of unity, and the sacrifices made for the greater good. While grounded in folklore, the story also conveys timely messages about humanity’s connection to nature and the importance of trust and community. The pacing, world-building, plot, and character development are well-drawn, and Varner excels at weaving mythical worlds deeply rooted in cultural traditions and oral storytelling. Warriors of the Red Wolf will appeal to readers of Le Guin, Momaday, and anyone who enjoys a good book with poetic prose and vivid imagery. It’s a timeless book to pass down the generations and an excellent addition to middle school libraries.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

The Pendant & The Prophecy is the second book in The Forbidden Tears Series by Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis. The trials and tribulations of Brianna Weldon and her guardian angel, Cameron, continue as they face yet more challenges. After barely surviving a deadly attack, Brie and Cameron were shocked to get a surprise visit from Ephriam that further complicated things for them. Being summoned to the Elysium was the least of their worries. The mystery of Brie’s pendant, the powers it gave her, and Cameron’s past endeavors were all causes of worry for Brie, Cameron, and their friends. The Elysium was powerful, and Brie had no reason to believe they would let her keep the pendant. Humans weren’t supposed to know about Elysium or see angels. Was there a way out of trouble for them? Or was this the end of the road?

A perfect epic fantasy, The Pendant & The Prophecy was a delight to read. I took my time reading this novel, and I’m glad I did. The story was gripping, the characters were incredible, and the narrative was simply great. The humor, the action, and the overall feel of the story were fantastic. Authors Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis made sure the characters were memorable, and the pace was right. A multiple-POV narrative style brought the story to life, and the vivid imagery ensured that readers were fully invested. I loved Cameron and his hard exterior. He created a strong front, but he wasn’t afraid to share his vulnerabilities with Brie. Brie, on the other hand, was strong and reliable. The two created a great pair, and I enjoyed their interactions a lot. However, it was Ephraim whom I loved the most. He matched the characters' wit with wit and was a fierce ally. I was lost in the story and the growth of the characters. I loved it, to say the least!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Dragon of Denmark by Jennifer Ivy Walker is a paranormal romance that follows Skårde the Scourge, the illegitimate son of King Harald Bluetooth and a fierce Viking warlord, tasked with forging an alliance through marriage to Ylva, the illegitimate daughter of the Viking Duke of Normandy. Ylva, a Druid priestess with mystical abilities, foresees her terrifying union with Skårde. As political tensions rise and the Frankish king threatens Normandy, Skårde and Ylva must combine their strengths and ally with magical beings to defend their lands, blending history, Norse mythology, and passion in this thrilling romance. Walker offers a fantastic dive into Norse mythology for readers, creating a vivid and immersive world where magic and history blend seamlessly, enriching both the plot and the atmosphere at every turn with this highly original clash of genres.

The complex, fiery dynamic between Skårde and Ylva is skillfully developed, driving the romance with intensity and depth while exploring themes of power, duty, and trust. I was particularly captivated by Jennifer Ivy Walker's attention to the spiritual and mystical elements, especially Ylva's Druidic gifts and the use of Viking magic, which adds a rich, fantastical layer to the narrative, making the story truly enchanting. The action-packed scenes of battles and alliances are meticulously crafted, demonstrating Walker's ability to balance thrilling adventure with emotionally charged romance, making for a page-turning read. As I read, I found myself completely lost in the rich tapestry of Viking culture and Norse mythology, feeling as though I was right there alongside Skårde and Ylva, experiencing their struggles, passions, and triumphs in vivid detail. Overall, I highly recommend Dragon of Denmark to readers who enjoy historical romance with a paranormal twist, offering a unique blend of Viking lore, magic, and a passionate love story.