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Recommend this book:
The Lemon Golf Diary
An Adventure of Imagination with a Neurodivergent Heroine
Christine Foster
2025 Finalist
140 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
The Lemon Golf Diary by Christine Foster introduces readers to Rory, a neurodivergent preteen girl who is just beginning to understand how her mind differs from those around her. Told in Rory’s wonder-filled, observant first-person voice, the story blends traditional narrative with occasional diary entries that serve as snapshots of her inner life. At the heart of the story is her evolving friendship with Paige, a brilliant but domineering new classmate, whose obsession with a made-up spirit named Morgana draws Rory into a risky game of pretending and lying. Along the way, Rory tries to make sense of her father’s absence, her mother’s strained patience, and her own complicated sense of self—right down to discovering that her name isn’t short for the elegant “Aurora,” as she once believed, but simply Rory. The book gently explores themes of identity, isolation, and the yearning to feel seen and understood.
As an educator, I was struck by how well Christine Foster captures the quiet chaos of a child who experiences the world differently. Rory’s thought process—full of tangents, emotional misfires, and flashes of deep insight—feels utterly authentic. There’s a rawness in the way she observes adults, tries to decode friendship, and navigates guilt that hit me in the chest. I didn’t just read about Rory, I worried about her. I ached for her. The book is thoughtful, funny in a bittersweet way, and doesn’t feel the need to tie everything up with a bow. Instead, it offers us a glimpse into a vividly real voice trying to make sense of a world that often doesn’t make space for kids like her. The Lemon Golf Diary is a strong and sensitive work from Christine Foster, one that stays with you long after the final page.
The Lemon Golf Diary by Christine Foster introduces readers to Rory, a neurodivergent preteen girl who is just beginning to understand how her mind differs from those around her. Told in Rory’s wonder-filled, observant first-person voice, the story blends traditional narrative with occasional diary entries that serve as snapshots of her inner life. At the heart of the story is her evolving friendship with Paige, a brilliant but domineering new classmate, whose obsession with a made-up spirit named Morgana draws Rory into a risky game of pretending and lying. Along the way, Rory tries to make sense of her father’s absence, her mother’s strained patience, and her own complicated sense of self—right down to discovering that her name isn’t short for the elegant “Aurora,” as she once believed, but simply Rory. The book gently explores themes of identity, isolation, and the yearning to feel seen and understood.
As an educator, I was struck by how well Christine Foster captures the quiet chaos of a child who experiences the world differently. Rory’s thought process—full of tangents, emotional misfires, and flashes of deep insight—feels utterly authentic. There’s a rawness in the way she observes adults, tries to decode friendship, and navigates guilt that hit me in the chest. I didn’t just read about Rory, I worried about her. I ached for her. The book is thoughtful, funny in a bittersweet way, and doesn’t feel the need to tie everything up with a bow. Instead, it offers us a glimpse into a vividly real voice trying to make sense of a world that often doesn’t make space for kids like her. The Lemon Golf Diary is a strong and sensitive work from Christine Foster, one that stays with you long after the final page.
Recommend this book:
Dustoff Down
Blackout Trail
Linda Naughton
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
In Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton, a Black Hawk Medevac helicopter is brought down by an EMP during a rescue mission, crashing into a forest in the Maine wilderness. Julia Song is a flight medic, and it’s up to her to get her crew to safety, but they don’t have any way to call for help, and it doesn’t look like a rescue is an option. Together, they must put their training to good use, but can they reach civilization safely? How widespread is the outage? And will they all make it out alive?
Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton is set in post-apocalyptic America. For a short story, it goes into a lot of detail, allowing readers to experience everything that happens. It has some well-defined characters, all of whom are likable and relatable, and you’ll become invested in them as you read, from the main ones to the side characters. The plot is unique and it offers action all the way, detailing the difficulties of a routine medevac mission during an EMP attack. The plot is well thought out and highly detailed and it is clear that a lot of research has gone into getting the details right. This is an exciting read for action fans. If you like post-apocalyptic thrillers and short stories, you’ll enjoy this book. This is an easy read with a good plot and is written in a compelling way that makes you want more.
In Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton, a Black Hawk Medevac helicopter is brought down by an EMP during a rescue mission, crashing into a forest in the Maine wilderness. Julia Song is a flight medic, and it’s up to her to get her crew to safety, but they don’t have any way to call for help, and it doesn’t look like a rescue is an option. Together, they must put their training to good use, but can they reach civilization safely? How widespread is the outage? And will they all make it out alive?
Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton is set in post-apocalyptic America. For a short story, it goes into a lot of detail, allowing readers to experience everything that happens. It has some well-defined characters, all of whom are likable and relatable, and you’ll become invested in them as you read, from the main ones to the side characters. The plot is unique and it offers action all the way, detailing the difficulties of a routine medevac mission during an EMP attack. The plot is well thought out and highly detailed and it is clear that a lot of research has gone into getting the details right. This is an exciting read for action fans. If you like post-apocalyptic thrillers and short stories, you’ll enjoy this book. This is an easy read with a good plot and is written in a compelling way that makes you want more.
Recommend this book:
Lonely Worlds
Joseph Russell
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
Lonely Worlds by Joseph Russell is a captivating short story that follows Felix Aiden Lewis, a young traveler who journeys alone across different worlds. Having been on his own for a long time, he struggles to understand the purpose of his travels. One day, while traversing a savanna plain, he is attacked but is suddenly rescued by a mysterious figure who turns out to be Hayley, another lone traveler. Deciding to join forces, Felix and Hayley set out for the fire world in response to a call that has been guiding them on their journeys. As they face various trials and leap into different realms, Felix and Hayley grow close. Along the way, they befriend Iain, a centaur, and visit the winter world, where they are pursued by fierce creatures. Ultimately, they reach their destination, discovering the reason behind their travels.
Lonely Worlds is about adventure, friendship, sacrifice, and personal growth. As Felix journeys through various apocalyptic and fantastical realms that test his resolve and morality, he transforms from a lonely traveler into a confident individual who develops his skills. The narrative draws inspiration from Joseph Russell’s own experience in climbing Kilimanjaro during a trip to Africa, imbuing the story with heartfelt authenticity and a sense of discovery that mirrors the emotional and physical challenges faced during such an endeavor. This personal connection makes Felix’s journey not only an adventure across imaginary worlds but also a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and embracing self-belief. The storytelling is a blend of intense action, emotional depth, Christian elements, and philosophical reflections, creating an engaging and thought-provoking read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates fantasy adventures that explore themes of resilience, friendship, and growth.
Lonely Worlds by Joseph Russell is a captivating short story that follows Felix Aiden Lewis, a young traveler who journeys alone across different worlds. Having been on his own for a long time, he struggles to understand the purpose of his travels. One day, while traversing a savanna plain, he is attacked but is suddenly rescued by a mysterious figure who turns out to be Hayley, another lone traveler. Deciding to join forces, Felix and Hayley set out for the fire world in response to a call that has been guiding them on their journeys. As they face various trials and leap into different realms, Felix and Hayley grow close. Along the way, they befriend Iain, a centaur, and visit the winter world, where they are pursued by fierce creatures. Ultimately, they reach their destination, discovering the reason behind their travels.
Lonely Worlds is about adventure, friendship, sacrifice, and personal growth. As Felix journeys through various apocalyptic and fantastical realms that test his resolve and morality, he transforms from a lonely traveler into a confident individual who develops his skills. The narrative draws inspiration from Joseph Russell’s own experience in climbing Kilimanjaro during a trip to Africa, imbuing the story with heartfelt authenticity and a sense of discovery that mirrors the emotional and physical challenges faced during such an endeavor. This personal connection makes Felix’s journey not only an adventure across imaginary worlds but also a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and embracing self-belief. The storytelling is a blend of intense action, emotional depth, Christian elements, and philosophical reflections, creating an engaging and thought-provoking read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates fantasy adventures that explore themes of resilience, friendship, and growth.
Recommend this book:
The Muse
Kurt Petrey
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Muse by Kurt Petrey is an intriguing short story that follows an aspiring writer named Victor, who is involved in a dangerous love affair with Kim, the wife of successful author Mark Davis. Victor deliberately inserts himself into the couple's life under the pretense of seeking accommodation and mentorship. As he grapples with jealousy and insecurity, he becomes increasingly curious about Mark’s writing process, especially since most of Mark’s works are highly regarded and have been adapted into successful films. As Victor immerses himself in their world, his obsession deepens, not only concerning Kim but also regarding uncovering the secret behind Mark's literary success. Tensions rise when Mark returns from a writing trip and requests a conversation with Victor. During this conversation, Mark reveals that he writes the future through a mystical journal he refers to as his Muse. He tells Victor that each time he writes a story, the journal demands a death.
The Muse is a suspenseful tale that explores themes of obsession, creativity, and destiny. The chilling nature of the story effectively creates an atmosphere of unease, leaving the characters’ fates uncertain. With dark mystical forces seemingly at play, readers are left contemplating death, the price of ambition, and the true nature of inspiration. Can one defy fate, or is everything predetermined? The plot's complex dilemma makes readers view the drama from each character's point of view, making readers sympathize with their struggles while also questioning their morals. Kurt Petrey's writing is engaging, drawing readers into the story from the first page to the last, and his attention to detail makes every interaction feel charged with tension and significance. The Muse is a creative exploration of the fine line between ambition and obsession, and I recommend adding it to your reading list for its compelling and suspenseful narrative.
The Muse by Kurt Petrey is an intriguing short story that follows an aspiring writer named Victor, who is involved in a dangerous love affair with Kim, the wife of successful author Mark Davis. Victor deliberately inserts himself into the couple's life under the pretense of seeking accommodation and mentorship. As he grapples with jealousy and insecurity, he becomes increasingly curious about Mark’s writing process, especially since most of Mark’s works are highly regarded and have been adapted into successful films. As Victor immerses himself in their world, his obsession deepens, not only concerning Kim but also regarding uncovering the secret behind Mark's literary success. Tensions rise when Mark returns from a writing trip and requests a conversation with Victor. During this conversation, Mark reveals that he writes the future through a mystical journal he refers to as his Muse. He tells Victor that each time he writes a story, the journal demands a death.
The Muse is a suspenseful tale that explores themes of obsession, creativity, and destiny. The chilling nature of the story effectively creates an atmosphere of unease, leaving the characters’ fates uncertain. With dark mystical forces seemingly at play, readers are left contemplating death, the price of ambition, and the true nature of inspiration. Can one defy fate, or is everything predetermined? The plot's complex dilemma makes readers view the drama from each character's point of view, making readers sympathize with their struggles while also questioning their morals. Kurt Petrey's writing is engaging, drawing readers into the story from the first page to the last, and his attention to detail makes every interaction feel charged with tension and significance. The Muse is a creative exploration of the fine line between ambition and obsession, and I recommend adding it to your reading list for its compelling and suspenseful narrative.
Recommend this book:
Scarlet Birthright
What They Left Behind (The Scarlet Yearnings Collection)
Scarlet Ibis James
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Scarlet Ibis James brings readers an enthralling coming-of-age tale in Scarlet Birthright: What They Left Behind. The story begins in Port of Spain in 1969. Joromi Enoch is a free-spirited nineteen-year-old DJ, eager to make the most of his life. But when a summer fling with a beautiful woman threatens to derail his plans for the future, he chooses to get married and travels to New York City to start his life anew. Meanwhile, Joromi's infant daughter, Trisha, is adopted by his parents, who raise her to be an independent woman with a heart of gold. However, Trisha has abandonment issues due to her complicated relationship with her estranged father. She finds comfort in her best friend, Rishi, who, unbeknownst to Trisha, has deeper feelings for her. Will Trisha be able to mend her relationship with her father?
Scarlet Birthright follows a young woman's journey of self-discovery, navigating the ups and downs of family, love, and relationships. Scarlet Ibis James pours a lot of heart and charm into an emotionally powerful narrative that plucks at your heartstrings until the end. The author's mesmerizing descriptions of the locales of Trinidad paint a vivid portrait of Caribbean culture and heritage, making the setting feel lived-in. The characters are well-developed, layered, and complex, with realistic flaws and vulnerabilities that make them feel truly human. Trisha's inner monologues and her complex feelings toward her father will resonate with a lot of readers. Among the secondary characters, I loved Cecil and Mary. I found their relationship with their granddaughter very touching. All in all, it's a great book for readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories.
Scarlet Ibis James brings readers an enthralling coming-of-age tale in Scarlet Birthright: What They Left Behind. The story begins in Port of Spain in 1969. Joromi Enoch is a free-spirited nineteen-year-old DJ, eager to make the most of his life. But when a summer fling with a beautiful woman threatens to derail his plans for the future, he chooses to get married and travels to New York City to start his life anew. Meanwhile, Joromi's infant daughter, Trisha, is adopted by his parents, who raise her to be an independent woman with a heart of gold. However, Trisha has abandonment issues due to her complicated relationship with her estranged father. She finds comfort in her best friend, Rishi, who, unbeknownst to Trisha, has deeper feelings for her. Will Trisha be able to mend her relationship with her father?
Scarlet Birthright follows a young woman's journey of self-discovery, navigating the ups and downs of family, love, and relationships. Scarlet Ibis James pours a lot of heart and charm into an emotionally powerful narrative that plucks at your heartstrings until the end. The author's mesmerizing descriptions of the locales of Trinidad paint a vivid portrait of Caribbean culture and heritage, making the setting feel lived-in. The characters are well-developed, layered, and complex, with realistic flaws and vulnerabilities that make them feel truly human. Trisha's inner monologues and her complex feelings toward her father will resonate with a lot of readers. Among the secondary characters, I loved Cecil and Mary. I found their relationship with their granddaughter very touching. All in all, it's a great book for readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories.
Recommend this book:
Shelter in a Hostile World
Mack Little
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a suspense-filled split timeline short story that follows the riveting tale of an Igbo man sold into slavery in Barbados. The intrigue begins right from the start as Badu Obosi battles to prove himself in the eyes of Lotachuckwu, the mother of the girl he loves. Badu is mesmerized by the beautiful and witty Ekemma and will not be deterred by anything, even the fury of his ancestors, in his quest to marry her. However, he faces powerful forces that are bent on keeping them apart. In 1651, twenty-three years later, Badu was a wanted man for leading a slave revolt in Barbados and was determined to keep his family safe even though this could cost him his life.
Little skillfully recreates the scenes in seventeenth-century Igboland and Barbados, weaving exciting details about Igbo history and culture into the layered and captivating plot. I was transported to the settings in the story as their sights and sounds came alive. Badu’s present and past lives are seamlessly interlaced, which helps form a complex, compelling main character who struggles to reconcile his two lives. The difficulties Badu faces, and the threat of losing his life as the militiamen in Barbados hunt for him heightens the tension in the story, creating an absorbing read. The supernatural elements included further enhance the thrilling tale. Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a swift, entrancing novella that blends Igbo culture, history, and a man’s resolve to succeed in an unforgiving world.
Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a suspense-filled split timeline short story that follows the riveting tale of an Igbo man sold into slavery in Barbados. The intrigue begins right from the start as Badu Obosi battles to prove himself in the eyes of Lotachuckwu, the mother of the girl he loves. Badu is mesmerized by the beautiful and witty Ekemma and will not be deterred by anything, even the fury of his ancestors, in his quest to marry her. However, he faces powerful forces that are bent on keeping them apart. In 1651, twenty-three years later, Badu was a wanted man for leading a slave revolt in Barbados and was determined to keep his family safe even though this could cost him his life.
Little skillfully recreates the scenes in seventeenth-century Igboland and Barbados, weaving exciting details about Igbo history and culture into the layered and captivating plot. I was transported to the settings in the story as their sights and sounds came alive. Badu’s present and past lives are seamlessly interlaced, which helps form a complex, compelling main character who struggles to reconcile his two lives. The difficulties Badu faces, and the threat of losing his life as the militiamen in Barbados hunt for him heightens the tension in the story, creating an absorbing read. The supernatural elements included further enhance the thrilling tale. Shelter in a Hostile World by Mack Little is a swift, entrancing novella that blends Igbo culture, history, and a man’s resolve to succeed in an unforgiving world.
Recommend this book:
Smuggler's Valor
A Sci-fi Action Adventure
T.D. Wilson
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by David Korson for Readers' Favorite
T.D. Wilson introduces audiences to a deep-space adventure filled with action in Smuggler's Valor. Reese Daniels finds himself in a precarious position during a daring and illicit delivery to Ariel, one of Uranus's moons. With his trusty spacecraft downed by warring alien forces, Reese must find a way to escape from the moon with his life intact. Though a few military personnel may be able to help, with limited oxygen, lethal bug-like aliens, and a colony full of death and destruction, he will have to push himself as never before to survive the dangerous situation he's in. But Reese is a highly capable and tenacious man who doesn't give up easily.
The high-stakes thrills start on page one and don't let up until the final pages of this vibrant sci-fi story. T.D. Wilson entertains readers with descriptive writing that makes the innovative tech feel authentic and the settings and scenes clear and memorable. Yet, the author refrains from overly describing aspects of the futuristic universe that are unnecessary to the story. This restraint leaves readers curious about what the aliens are after, how the advanced technology operates, and even much about the characters' backstories. Although the protagonist, Reese, has an illegal vocation, I liked how his kind-hearted nature is revealed as the story progresses, helping him to be an authentic and relatable character. For a story with action, intrigue, and heart, Smuggler's Valor hits all the marks of a wildly energetic galactic escape.
T.D. Wilson introduces audiences to a deep-space adventure filled with action in Smuggler's Valor. Reese Daniels finds himself in a precarious position during a daring and illicit delivery to Ariel, one of Uranus's moons. With his trusty spacecraft downed by warring alien forces, Reese must find a way to escape from the moon with his life intact. Though a few military personnel may be able to help, with limited oxygen, lethal bug-like aliens, and a colony full of death and destruction, he will have to push himself as never before to survive the dangerous situation he's in. But Reese is a highly capable and tenacious man who doesn't give up easily.
The high-stakes thrills start on page one and don't let up until the final pages of this vibrant sci-fi story. T.D. Wilson entertains readers with descriptive writing that makes the innovative tech feel authentic and the settings and scenes clear and memorable. Yet, the author refrains from overly describing aspects of the futuristic universe that are unnecessary to the story. This restraint leaves readers curious about what the aliens are after, how the advanced technology operates, and even much about the characters' backstories. Although the protagonist, Reese, has an illegal vocation, I liked how his kind-hearted nature is revealed as the story progresses, helping him to be an authentic and relatable character. For a story with action, intrigue, and heart, Smuggler's Valor hits all the marks of a wildly energetic galactic escape.
Recommend this book:
Cold Moon
Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series
Corina Douglas
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Tanja Jurkovic for Readers' Favorite
Cold Moon: Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series by Corina Douglas maps the beginning of a journey into the unknown, the path paved with intrigue, violent acts, revenge, lies, love, heartbreak, and resilience. Eleanor is a young woman who was abruptly taken from her home at an early age to become the acolyte for the goddess of the Moon, Arianrhod. She has been chosen to perform a rite of the Moon, a ritual of questionable nature that she opposed. It was believed that the ritual would save her people and their way of life for many years to come. As the goddess’s favored acolyte, she is destined to be part of the ceremony to please the deity and to try to regain her freedom, both in life and in love. After a violent act in which she loses everything, Eleanor must survive the fate imposed on her and stay alive in the process.
Corina Douglas’s clear and exciting descriptions perfectly portray the world created in Cold Moon, the characters' goodness and malice, and Eleanor’s undying wish for revenge which she hopes will mend her heart. The scenes in this prequel are detailed, and full of emotion and drama that demonstrate the strength of the storytelling and the significance of the emotional turmoil of the main character. Cold Moon is not for the faint-hearted. It is exciting, steamy in parts, spiritual, and strong in its descriptions of the matters of the heart, which will lure every reader into this story of devotion, revenge, loss, and freedom.
Cold Moon: Prequel to the Cursed Heir Series by Corina Douglas maps the beginning of a journey into the unknown, the path paved with intrigue, violent acts, revenge, lies, love, heartbreak, and resilience. Eleanor is a young woman who was abruptly taken from her home at an early age to become the acolyte for the goddess of the Moon, Arianrhod. She has been chosen to perform a rite of the Moon, a ritual of questionable nature that she opposed. It was believed that the ritual would save her people and their way of life for many years to come. As the goddess’s favored acolyte, she is destined to be part of the ceremony to please the deity and to try to regain her freedom, both in life and in love. After a violent act in which she loses everything, Eleanor must survive the fate imposed on her and stay alive in the process.
Corina Douglas’s clear and exciting descriptions perfectly portray the world created in Cold Moon, the characters' goodness and malice, and Eleanor’s undying wish for revenge which she hopes will mend her heart. The scenes in this prequel are detailed, and full of emotion and drama that demonstrate the strength of the storytelling and the significance of the emotional turmoil of the main character. Cold Moon is not for the faint-hearted. It is exciting, steamy in parts, spiritual, and strong in its descriptions of the matters of the heart, which will lure every reader into this story of devotion, revenge, loss, and freedom.
Recommend this book:
The God Heist
An Oceans of Sand Novella
Jessica Flory
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The God Heist is a thrilling young adult adventure novella by Jessica Flory. It tells the story of Jehn, a young apprentice priest who lives in a village located in the vast desert. Life in Jehn's village has become unbearable, with people missing and anxiety running high. However, a glimmer of hope appears when Jehn's master, Elder Yewen, informs them that they will receive moonstones containing sand gifts from the moon goddess, Atoille, which will allow them to sail across the sand and achieve many more abilities. Unfortunately, on the day of the gift-giving ceremony, the stones are stolen by Zarin, who is working for the dark god, Haraithan. Elder Yewen entrusts Jehn with the only remaining powers and gives him the task of retrieving the stolen stones. Despite being conflicted about helping the very people who did not care for him when he was starving and stranded in the streets, Jehn embarks on the journey with his friend Duma and his archnemesis Keziah.
The God Heist is a captivating tale with fascinating characters and an enjoyable storyline. The premise of a street-smart youngster trying to outwit a dark deity and save his community makes for a suspenseful read. Watching Jehn's character develop was intriguing, and the lessons he learned on his journey could be applied to real-life situations. The themes of perseverance, self-belief, empathy, and forgiveness will resonate with many readers. Jessica Flory is an imaginative writer who had me hooked from the beginning to the end of the story. The scientific details about sand and stones, as well as the enemies-to-lovers subplot, were excellent additions to the story. I did not want it to end, which is why I am eagerly anticipating a sequel. The God Heist is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult adventures with a touch of fantasy and romance.
The God Heist is a thrilling young adult adventure novella by Jessica Flory. It tells the story of Jehn, a young apprentice priest who lives in a village located in the vast desert. Life in Jehn's village has become unbearable, with people missing and anxiety running high. However, a glimmer of hope appears when Jehn's master, Elder Yewen, informs them that they will receive moonstones containing sand gifts from the moon goddess, Atoille, which will allow them to sail across the sand and achieve many more abilities. Unfortunately, on the day of the gift-giving ceremony, the stones are stolen by Zarin, who is working for the dark god, Haraithan. Elder Yewen entrusts Jehn with the only remaining powers and gives him the task of retrieving the stolen stones. Despite being conflicted about helping the very people who did not care for him when he was starving and stranded in the streets, Jehn embarks on the journey with his friend Duma and his archnemesis Keziah.
The God Heist is a captivating tale with fascinating characters and an enjoyable storyline. The premise of a street-smart youngster trying to outwit a dark deity and save his community makes for a suspenseful read. Watching Jehn's character develop was intriguing, and the lessons he learned on his journey could be applied to real-life situations. The themes of perseverance, self-belief, empathy, and forgiveness will resonate with many readers. Jessica Flory is an imaginative writer who had me hooked from the beginning to the end of the story. The scientific details about sand and stones, as well as the enemies-to-lovers subplot, were excellent additions to the story. I did not want it to end, which is why I am eagerly anticipating a sequel. The God Heist is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult adventures with a touch of fantasy and romance.
Recommend this book:
Murder on the Ghan
A Murder Mystery
Gabriel Farago
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novela
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Gabriel Farago’s Murder on the Ghan unfolds with the gripping allure of an Australian outback tale fused with a murder mystery. The narrative kicks off with a captivating scene featuring Jimmy Bingarra, a young Aboriginal miner whose prophetic dream sets in motion a chain of events revolving around a rare opal known as Yurlunggur. This serpent-shaped gem becomes the focal point that entangles charismatic journalist Jack Rogan and virtuoso conductor Sophie Ritter in a perilous adventure. Their decision to team up leads them down a rabbit hole into the dark and menacing realm filled with biker outlaws and murder. The heart of this pulse-pounding narrative beats with palpable tension as Rogan and Ritter board the iconic Ghan railway journey, seeking refuge from their pursuers while grappling with the weight of Aboriginal Dreamtime legends and the ruthless greed of their adversaries.
Gabriel Farago masterfully intertwines elements of Australian history and culture, enriching the plot with vivid descriptions of the outback landscape and the cultural significance of the opal. He excels in character development, presenting Rogan as a resilient and quick-witted protagonist whose journalistic instincts drive him to uncover the truth behind the opal’s curse. Sophie’s evolution from a talented conductor to an unexpected ally in the face of danger adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of courage and redemption amidst chaos. Murder on the Ghan is a testament to Farago’s storytelling prowess, blending suspenseful twists with rich historical detail and cultural insights. As the plot hurtles toward a climactic showdown, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, rooting for Rogan and his allies to triumph over their ruthless foes. This is a must-read for fans of murder mysteries and adventure tales set against the backdrop of Australia’s enchanting yet perilous landscape. Murder on the Ghan is a captivating read that seamlessly weaves together history, mystery, and the timeless allure of the outback, ensuring its place as a standout in contemporary crime fiction.
Gabriel Farago’s Murder on the Ghan unfolds with the gripping allure of an Australian outback tale fused with a murder mystery. The narrative kicks off with a captivating scene featuring Jimmy Bingarra, a young Aboriginal miner whose prophetic dream sets in motion a chain of events revolving around a rare opal known as Yurlunggur. This serpent-shaped gem becomes the focal point that entangles charismatic journalist Jack Rogan and virtuoso conductor Sophie Ritter in a perilous adventure. Their decision to team up leads them down a rabbit hole into the dark and menacing realm filled with biker outlaws and murder. The heart of this pulse-pounding narrative beats with palpable tension as Rogan and Ritter board the iconic Ghan railway journey, seeking refuge from their pursuers while grappling with the weight of Aboriginal Dreamtime legends and the ruthless greed of their adversaries.
Gabriel Farago masterfully intertwines elements of Australian history and culture, enriching the plot with vivid descriptions of the outback landscape and the cultural significance of the opal. He excels in character development, presenting Rogan as a resilient and quick-witted protagonist whose journalistic instincts drive him to uncover the truth behind the opal’s curse. Sophie’s evolution from a talented conductor to an unexpected ally in the face of danger adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of courage and redemption amidst chaos. Murder on the Ghan is a testament to Farago’s storytelling prowess, blending suspenseful twists with rich historical detail and cultural insights. As the plot hurtles toward a climactic showdown, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, rooting for Rogan and his allies to triumph over their ruthless foes. This is a must-read for fans of murder mysteries and adventure tales set against the backdrop of Australia’s enchanting yet perilous landscape. Murder on the Ghan is a captivating read that seamlessly weaves together history, mystery, and the timeless allure of the outback, ensuring its place as a standout in contemporary crime fiction.
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