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Recommend this book:
Sunnyside Up
Rea Nolan Martin
2022 Gold Medal
386 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Sunnyside Up by Rea Nolan Martin is highly original storytelling that you don’t read every day. It centers on the lives of two sisters, Adelaide and Felicity Somers, as they try to make sense of their lives after a terrible accident. The book’s title is the name of their funeral home business and chicken farm in Kentucky that Adelaide manages. Neither of them is married. Adelaide was once in a relationship with Julian Buck, but he passed away. Half the time Adelaide can’t even remember that Julian is dead. Felicity is similarly struggling to remember certain events from the past. There are those who blame Julian for his role in a tragic accident at the Red River Gorge, in which Adelaide sustained brain damage that she never overcame. Will the sisters ever remember?
It’s a highly unusual story that explores the mystery of existence and the chemistry between two sisters in which their personality quirks add to the story’s fascinating anomaly. Rea Nolan Martin makes a witty study of character. In this novel, Martin presents a blend of the fundamental nature of reality and the phenomena of life after death. This creates a larger-than-life story in which Sunnyside Up strikes a high note and has a major emotional and even spiritual impact. Reading the obituaries offers a sense of release from fear as if reminding you that we will all get there at some point. Whatever spiritual insights it dramatizes, the novel manages to present itself via earnestness in its character-driven plot. Hats off to Martin for writing Sunnyside Up with brilliant characters and exposition. It can lag at certain moments, but on the whole, remains engaging. Highly recommended.
Sunnyside Up by Rea Nolan Martin is highly original storytelling that you don’t read every day. It centers on the lives of two sisters, Adelaide and Felicity Somers, as they try to make sense of their lives after a terrible accident. The book’s title is the name of their funeral home business and chicken farm in Kentucky that Adelaide manages. Neither of them is married. Adelaide was once in a relationship with Julian Buck, but he passed away. Half the time Adelaide can’t even remember that Julian is dead. Felicity is similarly struggling to remember certain events from the past. There are those who blame Julian for his role in a tragic accident at the Red River Gorge, in which Adelaide sustained brain damage that she never overcame. Will the sisters ever remember?
It’s a highly unusual story that explores the mystery of existence and the chemistry between two sisters in which their personality quirks add to the story’s fascinating anomaly. Rea Nolan Martin makes a witty study of character. In this novel, Martin presents a blend of the fundamental nature of reality and the phenomena of life after death. This creates a larger-than-life story in which Sunnyside Up strikes a high note and has a major emotional and even spiritual impact. Reading the obituaries offers a sense of release from fear as if reminding you that we will all get there at some point. Whatever spiritual insights it dramatizes, the novel manages to present itself via earnestness in its character-driven plot. Hats off to Martin for writing Sunnyside Up with brilliant characters and exposition. It can lag at certain moments, but on the whole, remains engaging. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Cali the Destroyer
Sol Luckman
2022 Silver Medal
577 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Cali the Destroyer by Sol Luckman is a thought-provoking and absorbing dystopian tale with a New Age touch. It balances the exploration of human relationships with environmental, social, and political issues. Caliandra and Juice are young lovers caught in a society that has lost its pluralist sense. Cali is a famous white pop singer whose mother died in an unusual circumstance six months ago. Cali’s insanely jealous stepmother, Olga, who acts as her manager, is bent on sabotaging her stepdaughter’s career. Juice is a person of color with deep, personal grief. Cali believes that her mother is still alive, and together with Juice, they will embark on a journey to a dreamlike realm to find her mother. From here, Cali will learn about the Luminous Child and how to save the planet from the unjust rule of the Fatherland.
Cali the Destroyer is not just about identity—it is about searching your soul and determining who you are and your purpose for being placed on Earth. Sol Luckman hits all the right notes as his novel doesn’t struggle a bit to assert itself because it doesn’t have to. The story and its theme simply flow, and it is bound to find an appreciative audience. Moreover, the supporting figures with identifiable characteristics blend well into the story as a whole, and their interaction with Caliandra amplifies her qualities as a protagonist. Cali, by virtue of her origins and what she stands for, keeps you hanging on. You keep rooting for her, and you become curious about the fate of her relationship with Juice. Cali the Destroyer is an illuminating and deep read, and the result is a must-read tale in tune with contemporary concerns that it dresses up as an Orwellian future.
Cali the Destroyer by Sol Luckman is a thought-provoking and absorbing dystopian tale with a New Age touch. It balances the exploration of human relationships with environmental, social, and political issues. Caliandra and Juice are young lovers caught in a society that has lost its pluralist sense. Cali is a famous white pop singer whose mother died in an unusual circumstance six months ago. Cali’s insanely jealous stepmother, Olga, who acts as her manager, is bent on sabotaging her stepdaughter’s career. Juice is a person of color with deep, personal grief. Cali believes that her mother is still alive, and together with Juice, they will embark on a journey to a dreamlike realm to find her mother. From here, Cali will learn about the Luminous Child and how to save the planet from the unjust rule of the Fatherland.
Cali the Destroyer is not just about identity—it is about searching your soul and determining who you are and your purpose for being placed on Earth. Sol Luckman hits all the right notes as his novel doesn’t struggle a bit to assert itself because it doesn’t have to. The story and its theme simply flow, and it is bound to find an appreciative audience. Moreover, the supporting figures with identifiable characteristics blend well into the story as a whole, and their interaction with Caliandra amplifies her qualities as a protagonist. Cali, by virtue of her origins and what she stands for, keeps you hanging on. You keep rooting for her, and you become curious about the fate of her relationship with Juice. Cali the Destroyer is an illuminating and deep read, and the result is a must-read tale in tune with contemporary concerns that it dresses up as an Orwellian future.
Recommend this book:
My Famous Brain
Diane Wald
2022 Bronze Medal
316 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
My Famous Brain is a unique work of fiction in the literary dramatic style and was penned by author Diane Wald. Written for adult audiences, the work does contain some explicit language usage and the inclusion of scenes of a sexual nature. We follow our central protagonist Jack McLeod on a tale through the many trials, tribulations, and learning experiences of his life, which he narrates for us in a new state of existence beyond the mortal grave. From his early years participating in studies for gifted children to his time working as a university professor, Jack possesses a unique penchant for psychic connection that gives him a deep insight into all that goes on around him.
Author Diane Wald has crafted a truly intriguing slice of life drama which chronicles some quite incredible events and teaches us the value of observation of others and the effects caused to other people by how we live our lives. In terms of character development, we get an extremely close view of our central storyteller Jack, whose brain is indeed a complex portrayal filled with imagery, tender moments, and personal touches to endear him to us. This is very much his drama, but his position as a psychologist gives the author some scope to observe others through his unique lens as well and build the cast around him with vivid details and insight. Overall, readers who enjoy deep literary portrayals of fascinating characters will be sure to adore My Famous Brain, and I would certainly recommend it for their next read.
My Famous Brain is a unique work of fiction in the literary dramatic style and was penned by author Diane Wald. Written for adult audiences, the work does contain some explicit language usage and the inclusion of scenes of a sexual nature. We follow our central protagonist Jack McLeod on a tale through the many trials, tribulations, and learning experiences of his life, which he narrates for us in a new state of existence beyond the mortal grave. From his early years participating in studies for gifted children to his time working as a university professor, Jack possesses a unique penchant for psychic connection that gives him a deep insight into all that goes on around him.
Author Diane Wald has crafted a truly intriguing slice of life drama which chronicles some quite incredible events and teaches us the value of observation of others and the effects caused to other people by how we live our lives. In terms of character development, we get an extremely close view of our central storyteller Jack, whose brain is indeed a complex portrayal filled with imagery, tender moments, and personal touches to endear him to us. This is very much his drama, but his position as a psychologist gives the author some scope to observe others through his unique lens as well and build the cast around him with vivid details and insight. Overall, readers who enjoy deep literary portrayals of fascinating characters will be sure to adore My Famous Brain, and I would certainly recommend it for their next read.
Recommend this book:
Three Immortals
Bert-Oliver Boehmer
2022 Honorable Mention
299 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Three Immortals is a work of fiction in the science fiction and adventure subgenres and was penned by author Bert-Oliver Boehmer. Written for the general adult reading audience, this exciting space opera takes us into a far-flung future where humanity has had to pick itself up from the ashes of ruin in the Milky Way. As a fierce empress looms with an interstellar threat, war hero Kel Chaada tries to lead a modest nation but finds himself caught in the crossfire of a much bigger fight. When Kel flees to the farthest reaches of the universe to get out of human space, the wisdom he finds there may be just what is needed to uncover the secrets behind the immortals who have seized power.
Author Bert-Oliver Boehmer has crafted a truly thrilling science fiction work that is part space opera and part all-out interstellar war novel. The intricacies of galactic warfare make a really exciting backdrop against which the story takes place, with the ever-growing intensity of the conflict rising in the background. In this tense setting, we find amazing moments of fascination and innovation as Kel goes on a voyage of discovery for ancient wisdom, exciting new tech, and a poignant explanation of what has happened to humanity over the millennia. Overall, I would definitely recommend Three Immortals to fans of high-octane space drama that has all the refinements and poignancies of intelligent hard-core science fiction but also a ton of emotional realism in its characters and message. An unmissable adventure indeed.
Three Immortals is a work of fiction in the science fiction and adventure subgenres and was penned by author Bert-Oliver Boehmer. Written for the general adult reading audience, this exciting space opera takes us into a far-flung future where humanity has had to pick itself up from the ashes of ruin in the Milky Way. As a fierce empress looms with an interstellar threat, war hero Kel Chaada tries to lead a modest nation but finds himself caught in the crossfire of a much bigger fight. When Kel flees to the farthest reaches of the universe to get out of human space, the wisdom he finds there may be just what is needed to uncover the secrets behind the immortals who have seized power.
Author Bert-Oliver Boehmer has crafted a truly thrilling science fiction work that is part space opera and part all-out interstellar war novel. The intricacies of galactic warfare make a really exciting backdrop against which the story takes place, with the ever-growing intensity of the conflict rising in the background. In this tense setting, we find amazing moments of fascination and innovation as Kel goes on a voyage of discovery for ancient wisdom, exciting new tech, and a poignant explanation of what has happened to humanity over the millennia. Overall, I would definitely recommend Three Immortals to fans of high-octane space drama that has all the refinements and poignancies of intelligent hard-core science fiction but also a ton of emotional realism in its characters and message. An unmissable adventure indeed.
Recommend this book:
 by Alex Marcoux is for readers who enjoy genuinely imperfect heroes. In this metaphysical, visionary tale, the world faces an impending apocalypse and is on the verge of destruction. Ami is an ascended master who has gone through so much pain and has now reincarnated to ...){kind=link}
The Unsuspected Heroes
A Journey to the New Earth
Alex Marcoux
2022 Finalist
352 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Unsuspected Heroes: A Visionary Fiction Novel (A Journey to the New Earth) by Alex Marcoux is for readers who enjoy genuinely imperfect heroes. In this metaphysical, visionary tale, the world faces an impending apocalypse and is on the verge of destruction. Ami is an ascended master who has gone through so much pain and has now reincarnated to lead humanity to the New Earth, but she is trapped in an autistic body and cannot speak. While the danger grows stronger and more imminent, Ami must connect with others like herself to rescue humanity. But time isn’t on her side, plus her mortal condition is a challenge.
There is so much to enjoy in this epic tale and the reader is instantly drawn to Ami. I enjoyed the fact that the author put an ascended master into the shell of an autistic person. She is limited, and her struggles include the fact that she has no memory of who she is. When she begins to understand what is at stake, she struggles with her flawed physicality. The author explores strong and evocative topics, engaging readers with an interesting reflection on evolutionary themes and describing the decline of human civilization compellingly. Some interesting neologisms and concepts will have readers thinking. A hero who suffers from autism is an aspect of the plot that had me fascinated. The Unsuspected Heroes is a fast-paced visionary tale with a phenomenal conflict, multidimensional characters, and resonant themes. Alex Marcoux’s work is hugely imaginative and thought-provoking.
The Unsuspected Heroes: A Visionary Fiction Novel (A Journey to the New Earth) by Alex Marcoux is for readers who enjoy genuinely imperfect heroes. In this metaphysical, visionary tale, the world faces an impending apocalypse and is on the verge of destruction. Ami is an ascended master who has gone through so much pain and has now reincarnated to lead humanity to the New Earth, but she is trapped in an autistic body and cannot speak. While the danger grows stronger and more imminent, Ami must connect with others like herself to rescue humanity. But time isn’t on her side, plus her mortal condition is a challenge.
There is so much to enjoy in this epic tale and the reader is instantly drawn to Ami. I enjoyed the fact that the author put an ascended master into the shell of an autistic person. She is limited, and her struggles include the fact that she has no memory of who she is. When she begins to understand what is at stake, she struggles with her flawed physicality. The author explores strong and evocative topics, engaging readers with an interesting reflection on evolutionary themes and describing the decline of human civilization compellingly. Some interesting neologisms and concepts will have readers thinking. A hero who suffers from autism is an aspect of the plot that had me fascinated. The Unsuspected Heroes is a fast-paced visionary tale with a phenomenal conflict, multidimensional characters, and resonant themes. Alex Marcoux’s work is hugely imaginative and thought-provoking.
Recommend this book:
Sane Grace
Oliver Phipps
2021 Gold Medal
229 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Steve Leshin for Readers' Favorite
Sane Grace by Oliver Phipps takes place in the future. The world is divided into regions and the main character is based in San Antonio, the capital of the central region of the Commonwealth of the Americas. Her name is Grace, and she can kicks ass as a special agent for a military police force in her region. The opening chapter introduces the reader to the young woman who wears tight-fitting apparel and flirts with criminal types. That is just first impressions. There is more to Grace than meets the eye and as the story progresses we are not sure whose side she is on. Grace likes to drink, flirt, and wisecrack with anyone within earshot, especially her superiors in the military. This proves to be vexing to the people she works for and they would like nothing better than to get rid of her. However, someone up high is protecting her for some reason.
Sane Grace works as a novella with snappy dialogue and a not too complicated plot. The secondary characters are along for the ride most of the time, except for Grace’s visits with Brad, who appears later on. The usual high-tech toys help set the futuristic setting that Grace operates in. A good portion of these helps her do very special jobs for her bosses. She also has personal problems off the job, and this becomes more important toward the concluding chapters. Oliver Phipps knows how to spin a tale with some witty dialogue from Grace, who seems to outthink and outperform her contemporaries in all situations. The chapters are relatively short and move along to keep your interest as a good story should. An enigma to everyone, her actions cause those around her to consider her insane. Find out the answer in this short but satisfying read.
Sane Grace by Oliver Phipps takes place in the future. The world is divided into regions and the main character is based in San Antonio, the capital of the central region of the Commonwealth of the Americas. Her name is Grace, and she can kicks ass as a special agent for a military police force in her region. The opening chapter introduces the reader to the young woman who wears tight-fitting apparel and flirts with criminal types. That is just first impressions. There is more to Grace than meets the eye and as the story progresses we are not sure whose side she is on. Grace likes to drink, flirt, and wisecrack with anyone within earshot, especially her superiors in the military. This proves to be vexing to the people she works for and they would like nothing better than to get rid of her. However, someone up high is protecting her for some reason.
Sane Grace works as a novella with snappy dialogue and a not too complicated plot. The secondary characters are along for the ride most of the time, except for Grace’s visits with Brad, who appears later on. The usual high-tech toys help set the futuristic setting that Grace operates in. A good portion of these helps her do very special jobs for her bosses. She also has personal problems off the job, and this becomes more important toward the concluding chapters. Oliver Phipps knows how to spin a tale with some witty dialogue from Grace, who seems to outthink and outperform her contemporaries in all situations. The chapters are relatively short and move along to keep your interest as a good story should. An enigma to everyone, her actions cause those around her to consider her insane. Find out the answer in this short but satisfying read.
Recommend this book:
The Triskelion
A Speculative Fiction Adventure (New Earth Chronicles Book 2)
Victoria Lehrer
2021 Bronze Medal
369 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
The Triskelion by Victoria Lehrer is a dystopian tale where two people desperately in love are trying to find each other, but the world has other plans for them. Dora d’Arc is the daughter of a Landlord of the Earth and she is in love with a prisoner. While Dora and Caellum are in love, they cannot find a way to be together as long as he is in jail for challenging the people who rule them all. In order to be near him, Dora moves to Transtopia but only to find herself figuratively under the oppression of the Imperial Governor. With no way out of their predicament, Dora decides to marry the son of the Imperial Governor in exchange for Caellum’s life. However, she has no idea that he has already broken out of his prison and is masterminding a plan that will not only free the people but enable both of them to be together forever. What is going to happen now? Can Caellum and Dora find a way to be together?
Although I did not read the first novel in the series, I had no issue with becoming invested and interested in the characters. The story itself is very captivating; the highs and lows of the plot had me riveted and wanting more. Dora and Caellum were going through some tough times in this novel, but their growth and development were amazing. Dora was not helpless or desperate; Caellum was fearless and ready to fight. They made a very strong couple that makes you want to cheer them on. I loved the story, the characters, and even the villains. There was nothing I would wish for the author to change in the story. It is perfect the way it is! A very interesting and entertaining novel.
The Triskelion by Victoria Lehrer is a dystopian tale where two people desperately in love are trying to find each other, but the world has other plans for them. Dora d’Arc is the daughter of a Landlord of the Earth and she is in love with a prisoner. While Dora and Caellum are in love, they cannot find a way to be together as long as he is in jail for challenging the people who rule them all. In order to be near him, Dora moves to Transtopia but only to find herself figuratively under the oppression of the Imperial Governor. With no way out of their predicament, Dora decides to marry the son of the Imperial Governor in exchange for Caellum’s life. However, she has no idea that he has already broken out of his prison and is masterminding a plan that will not only free the people but enable both of them to be together forever. What is going to happen now? Can Caellum and Dora find a way to be together?
Although I did not read the first novel in the series, I had no issue with becoming invested and interested in the characters. The story itself is very captivating; the highs and lows of the plot had me riveted and wanting more. Dora and Caellum were going through some tough times in this novel, but their growth and development were amazing. Dora was not helpless or desperate; Caellum was fearless and ready to fight. They made a very strong couple that makes you want to cheer them on. I loved the story, the characters, and even the villains. There was nothing I would wish for the author to change in the story. It is perfect the way it is! A very interesting and entertaining novel.
Recommend this book:
The Dual Path
An Earth to Stars Adventure
AnnaMariah Nau
2021 Honorable Mention
262 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Jose Cornelio for Readers' Favorite
The Dual Path: An Earth to Stars Adventure by AnnaMariah Nau is a wonderful and delightful tale for fans of young adult fantasy, a story with strong lessons for young readers. For twelve-year-old Zelia, a summer with her Aunt Joy is supposed to be a break from her parents, but she is pulled into a magical world that will take her on the adventure of a lifetime — exciting and transformative. With a new name, Zemma, she is plunged into a world teeming with magical creatures, talking animals and trees, and a cast of inspiring travelers on a journey that takes her to the stars. While Zelia and her Aunt Joy are helping people, discovering their new gifts, and connecting with powerful friends, they are troubled because an evil invades the earth and its spell on people is strong. The dead-eyed ones are intoxicating people and replacing their sense of joy and passion with fatigue and mental labor, keeping them trapped in an empty existence. Can they help?
This is a story for young adult readers but one that will teach older readers the secrets of life that are so often forgotten. The characters are exuberant, and, believe me, you will want to live your life as purely as Zelia comes to experience it, filled with a sense of wonder and a sacred joy no one can steal from you. This is an exhilarating adventure that I read to my son and daughter. And yes, it was a good experience for them. AnnaMariah Nau teaches readers to find delight in simple things, to treasure their gifts, and to have the courage to be who they are. It is filled with adventure, and as the reader begins to understand the paths to self-discovery through embracing new experiences and challenges, they also gain the wisdom that their minds, unfettered, can take them to surprising and exciting places. AnnaMariah Nau writes in a voice that is mellow and filled with charm, evoking a world that we all occasionally encounter in our dreams, a world that we can create. The Dual Path: An Earth to Stars Adventure is a powerful book that shows readers the possibility of a world that exists alongside ours. It is entertaining and utterly inspiring.
The Dual Path: An Earth to Stars Adventure by AnnaMariah Nau is a wonderful and delightful tale for fans of young adult fantasy, a story with strong lessons for young readers. For twelve-year-old Zelia, a summer with her Aunt Joy is supposed to be a break from her parents, but she is pulled into a magical world that will take her on the adventure of a lifetime — exciting and transformative. With a new name, Zemma, she is plunged into a world teeming with magical creatures, talking animals and trees, and a cast of inspiring travelers on a journey that takes her to the stars. While Zelia and her Aunt Joy are helping people, discovering their new gifts, and connecting with powerful friends, they are troubled because an evil invades the earth and its spell on people is strong. The dead-eyed ones are intoxicating people and replacing their sense of joy and passion with fatigue and mental labor, keeping them trapped in an empty existence. Can they help?
This is a story for young adult readers but one that will teach older readers the secrets of life that are so often forgotten. The characters are exuberant, and, believe me, you will want to live your life as purely as Zelia comes to experience it, filled with a sense of wonder and a sacred joy no one can steal from you. This is an exhilarating adventure that I read to my son and daughter. And yes, it was a good experience for them. AnnaMariah Nau teaches readers to find delight in simple things, to treasure their gifts, and to have the courage to be who they are. It is filled with adventure, and as the reader begins to understand the paths to self-discovery through embracing new experiences and challenges, they also gain the wisdom that their minds, unfettered, can take them to surprising and exciting places. AnnaMariah Nau writes in a voice that is mellow and filled with charm, evoking a world that we all occasionally encounter in our dreams, a world that we can create. The Dual Path: An Earth to Stars Adventure is a powerful book that shows readers the possibility of a world that exists alongside ours. It is entertaining and utterly inspiring.
Recommend this book:
Gawain and the Green Knight
Temptation Karma Honor
Stefan Emunds
2021 Finalist
116 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Gawain and the Green Knight: Temptation Karma Honor by Stefan Emunds is a brilliant rendition of the beautiful tale of Sir Gawain’s destiny, a fiery knight with a single purpose in mind; to attain honor. Courageous and bent on becoming memorable as a noble knight, Sir Gawain of King Arthur’s Round Table accepts a beheading challenge from the mysterious Green Knight and sets out on an odyssey that is shrouded in mystery. Can he face the challenges before him and win the battles he has to fight? Can he conquer the temptations of lust and fame and power, and keep a pure heart worthy of a knight? This is a tale fraught with mystery, religious themes, loyalty, and an endearing sense of purpose.
There is a pervading sense of mystery that permeates every layer of this story and Stefan Emunds has done a great job to make the reader feel it. The character of Gawain comes out beautifully throughout the story and readers will love him, because he represents the spiritual battle that many of us have to fight. This is both a spiritual and a symbolic story with many lessons for the reader. The writing is poetic, at times evocative, and hugely accessible. I loved the way the author used suspense and conflict throughout the story. The mystery surrounding the Green Knight is beautiful created to keep the reader’s curiosity on the alert. Gawain and the Green Knight: Temptation Karma Honor is engaging, entertaining, and satisfying in many ways.
Gawain and the Green Knight: Temptation Karma Honor by Stefan Emunds is a brilliant rendition of the beautiful tale of Sir Gawain’s destiny, a fiery knight with a single purpose in mind; to attain honor. Courageous and bent on becoming memorable as a noble knight, Sir Gawain of King Arthur’s Round Table accepts a beheading challenge from the mysterious Green Knight and sets out on an odyssey that is shrouded in mystery. Can he face the challenges before him and win the battles he has to fight? Can he conquer the temptations of lust and fame and power, and keep a pure heart worthy of a knight? This is a tale fraught with mystery, religious themes, loyalty, and an endearing sense of purpose.
There is a pervading sense of mystery that permeates every layer of this story and Stefan Emunds has done a great job to make the reader feel it. The character of Gawain comes out beautifully throughout the story and readers will love him, because he represents the spiritual battle that many of us have to fight. This is both a spiritual and a symbolic story with many lessons for the reader. The writing is poetic, at times evocative, and hugely accessible. I loved the way the author used suspense and conflict throughout the story. The mystery surrounding the Green Knight is beautiful created to keep the reader’s curiosity on the alert. Gawain and the Green Knight: Temptation Karma Honor is engaging, entertaining, and satisfying in many ways.
Recommend this book:
The Goddess Within
Iva Kenaz
2020 Gold Medal
201 Pages
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Fiction - Visionary
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
The Goddess Within by Iva Kenaz is the sequel to the historical fantasy book The Witch Within, reading as a stand-alone with its young protagonist, Berka. With knowledge of what Berka divinely possesses, she is raised by her father in the 16th-century Italian wilderness, one which holds the mythical and magical that co-exist beyond the treacherous cities and villages constructed by man. The seclusion is a mixed blessing, but one her father was unwilling to avoid. As Berka grows into herself and the mystical realm that surrounds her, she meets a faun named Giss who offers the companionship she desperately needs. Her happiness is shattered when the world of man invades Berka's space, and she is forced to confront all she has been previously protected from.
Iva Kenaz writes with a panache that comfortably blends history, fantasy, and the refinement of literary fiction in The Goddess Within. A lot has gone into the story, and even with Berka at the helm, the guidance of spirits and transcendent creatures and entities help the young woman on both of her journeys; one of discovery of herself and the other to rescue and reclaim those she cares for and all she believes in. She is multi-dimensional and thoroughly fleshed out as a character, and the supporting cast—diverse and bountiful as they are—are independently constructed and easy to separate. I think this a wonderful story that can be enjoyed by readers of multiple genres, and would be equally comfortable recommending it to all ages.
The Goddess Within by Iva Kenaz is the sequel to the historical fantasy book The Witch Within, reading as a stand-alone with its young protagonist, Berka. With knowledge of what Berka divinely possesses, she is raised by her father in the 16th-century Italian wilderness, one which holds the mythical and magical that co-exist beyond the treacherous cities and villages constructed by man. The seclusion is a mixed blessing, but one her father was unwilling to avoid. As Berka grows into herself and the mystical realm that surrounds her, she meets a faun named Giss who offers the companionship she desperately needs. Her happiness is shattered when the world of man invades Berka's space, and she is forced to confront all she has been previously protected from.
Iva Kenaz writes with a panache that comfortably blends history, fantasy, and the refinement of literary fiction in The Goddess Within. A lot has gone into the story, and even with Berka at the helm, the guidance of spirits and transcendent creatures and entities help the young woman on both of her journeys; one of discovery of herself and the other to rescue and reclaim those she cares for and all she believes in. She is multi-dimensional and thoroughly fleshed out as a character, and the supporting cast—diverse and bountiful as they are—are independently constructed and easy to separate. I think this a wonderful story that can be enjoyed by readers of multiple genres, and would be equally comfortable recommending it to all ages.
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