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![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/ash-like-vengeance&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51jquB2gdTL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Ash Like Vengeance by J.L. Delavega is the second book in the Western fantasy Revere Trilogy. In book one, Smoke and Other Storms, the Revere family, an all-female criminal gang led by Moira "The Raven" Revere, survives on the Rim through smuggling, theft, and violence aboard their train, the Absolution. Navy, the group's bomb maker, requires costl...){kind=link}
Ash Like Vengeance (The Revere Trilogy Book 2)
J.L. Delavega
2025 Finalist
488 Pages
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Ash Like Vengeance by J.L. Delavega is the second book in the Western fantasy Revere Trilogy. In book one, Smoke and Other Storms, the Revere family, an all-female criminal gang led by Moira "The Raven" Revere, survives on the Rim through smuggling, theft, and violence aboard their train, the Absolution. Navy, the group's bomb maker, requires costly eye surgery after an accident, so her sister, Adelaide, joins a dangerous mine expedition to raise the money. When the family is framed for a heist, they all become wanted fugitives. Now, in the aftermath of a horrific tragedy, three Revere family members seek refuge, unaware of Adelaide’s fate. In Hannah, Adelaide is heinously punished for a crime the family didn’t commit, leaving Aunt Tess devising a plan to destroy the town, using Adelaide’s position. The problem is that they're not the only ones using Adelaide.
“A good plan doesn’t have to be complicated or clever. It only has to work.” In a remarkable feat of skill and creativity, J.L. Delavega provides perfectly rendered first-person point-of-view shifts between Adelaide and Tesla and makes them think and sound completely different from one another. Adelaide, who gave us the first line of this paragraph, tends to be driven by immediate action, while Tesla is more methodical, and thoughtful. They are not together in the book, but they are completely symbiotic, and it's so well done. The world-building pulls together actual, tactile feeling while still delivering more. A refinery, where Adelaide is trapped, with its grim, industrial setting and imagery of smoke and ash not only represents the oppressive environment and her feelings of guilt and loss but also ties directly to the title, Ash Like Vengeance. Delavega’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and punchy, and I'm all in for the third and final installment when the universe gives it to the readerverse. Very highly recommended.
Ash Like Vengeance by J.L. Delavega is the second book in the Western fantasy Revere Trilogy. In book one, Smoke and Other Storms, the Revere family, an all-female criminal gang led by Moira "The Raven" Revere, survives on the Rim through smuggling, theft, and violence aboard their train, the Absolution. Navy, the group's bomb maker, requires costly eye surgery after an accident, so her sister, Adelaide, joins a dangerous mine expedition to raise the money. When the family is framed for a heist, they all become wanted fugitives. Now, in the aftermath of a horrific tragedy, three Revere family members seek refuge, unaware of Adelaide’s fate. In Hannah, Adelaide is heinously punished for a crime the family didn’t commit, leaving Aunt Tess devising a plan to destroy the town, using Adelaide’s position. The problem is that they're not the only ones using Adelaide.
“A good plan doesn’t have to be complicated or clever. It only has to work.” In a remarkable feat of skill and creativity, J.L. Delavega provides perfectly rendered first-person point-of-view shifts between Adelaide and Tesla and makes them think and sound completely different from one another. Adelaide, who gave us the first line of this paragraph, tends to be driven by immediate action, while Tesla is more methodical, and thoughtful. They are not together in the book, but they are completely symbiotic, and it's so well done. The world-building pulls together actual, tactile feeling while still delivering more. A refinery, where Adelaide is trapped, with its grim, industrial setting and imagery of smoke and ash not only represents the oppressive environment and her feelings of guilt and loss but also ties directly to the title, Ash Like Vengeance. Delavega’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and punchy, and I'm all in for the third and final installment when the universe gives it to the readerverse. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Misery Plaza
A Southern New England Horror Anthology, Book 2
J.J. Alo
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Misery Plaza by J.J. Alo follows Joseph Griffin, aka Sullivan, aka Potter, a former outlaw with a violent past, who is now a father trying to protect his children, Isaac and Clara, while on the run in the Old West. After settling in the remote town of Missouri Plaza, New Mexico, he hopes for a fresh start, but danger looms both above and below the surface. As lawmen close in, Joseph’s attempt at a quiet life is shattered when he uncovers an ancient, extraterrestrial presence buried beneath his property: a flying craft and a terrifying thing known as the Antiquarian. Facing threats from relentless bounty hunters and the unknown horrors awakening beneath his home, Joseph must confront his past and the otherworldly forces that threaten his family’s survival in this gripping tale of redemption and supernatural suspense.
Misery Plaza is a fantastically ambitious second installment in the Southern New England Horror Anthology, and author J.J. Alo nails it with a bold mix of history and futuristic elements, set in the Gilded Age between Reconstruction and the Progressive Era. Alo moves through multiple point of view characters, the standout of which are a tie between Sandy and the Antiquarian itself. Both are a testament to Alo's total creativity and proof that high concept, huge content, and cats can all coexist in science fiction. Coincidentally, as likeable as Joseph is and as effective he is as an anti-hero, his placement in the hierarchy of awesome characters is eclipsed, in the best possible way, by the man-creature-extraterrestrial and the many individuals that make contact with it. Overall, this is easily among the best books I've read this year. Very highly recommended.
Misery Plaza by J.J. Alo follows Joseph Griffin, aka Sullivan, aka Potter, a former outlaw with a violent past, who is now a father trying to protect his children, Isaac and Clara, while on the run in the Old West. After settling in the remote town of Missouri Plaza, New Mexico, he hopes for a fresh start, but danger looms both above and below the surface. As lawmen close in, Joseph’s attempt at a quiet life is shattered when he uncovers an ancient, extraterrestrial presence buried beneath his property: a flying craft and a terrifying thing known as the Antiquarian. Facing threats from relentless bounty hunters and the unknown horrors awakening beneath his home, Joseph must confront his past and the otherworldly forces that threaten his family’s survival in this gripping tale of redemption and supernatural suspense.
Misery Plaza is a fantastically ambitious second installment in the Southern New England Horror Anthology, and author J.J. Alo nails it with a bold mix of history and futuristic elements, set in the Gilded Age between Reconstruction and the Progressive Era. Alo moves through multiple point of view characters, the standout of which are a tie between Sandy and the Antiquarian itself. Both are a testament to Alo's total creativity and proof that high concept, huge content, and cats can all coexist in science fiction. Coincidentally, as likeable as Joseph is and as effective he is as an anti-hero, his placement in the hierarchy of awesome characters is eclipsed, in the best possible way, by the man-creature-extraterrestrial and the many individuals that make contact with it. Overall, this is easily among the best books I've read this year. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Trail of Fate
The Arduous Quest (Western Adventure Series Book 1)
B. S. Daniels
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Trail of Fate, the first book in B. S. Daniels' The Arduous Quest Western Adventure series, is a riveting homage to the gritty and action-packed world of classic Westerns. From the very first page, Daniels immerses readers in the untamed landscapes and rugged lives that defined the Wild West, delivering a story that is as thrilling as it is evocative. The protagonist, Reg, is a man whose unyielding sense of honor drives him on a quest for justice. His journey is fraught with danger, and the narrative expertly balances moments of intense action with deeper, more reflective passages, adding a layer of depth to the story. Daniels crafts a tale where every encounter and decision could lead to redemption or ruin, capturing the unpredictable nature of life on the frontier.
The prologue sets the tone with poetic musings on fate, questioning the forces that shape our paths. This philosophical undercurrent, which runs throughout the novel, adds depth and a thought-provoking element to the otherwise straightforward adventure. Trail of Fate is written in the first person POV, which gives readers a more intimate view of the protagonist. B. S. Daniels cleverly weaves a tale with many interesting characters in a way that’s easy to follow who’s who. The timing is perfect as Westerns are making a comeback after a long lull. B. S. Daniels has crafted a story that is both a tribute to and a reinvention of the Western, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting series. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer to Westerns, Trail of Fate is a journey worth taking.
Trail of Fate, the first book in B. S. Daniels' The Arduous Quest Western Adventure series, is a riveting homage to the gritty and action-packed world of classic Westerns. From the very first page, Daniels immerses readers in the untamed landscapes and rugged lives that defined the Wild West, delivering a story that is as thrilling as it is evocative. The protagonist, Reg, is a man whose unyielding sense of honor drives him on a quest for justice. His journey is fraught with danger, and the narrative expertly balances moments of intense action with deeper, more reflective passages, adding a layer of depth to the story. Daniels crafts a tale where every encounter and decision could lead to redemption or ruin, capturing the unpredictable nature of life on the frontier.
The prologue sets the tone with poetic musings on fate, questioning the forces that shape our paths. This philosophical undercurrent, which runs throughout the novel, adds depth and a thought-provoking element to the otherwise straightforward adventure. Trail of Fate is written in the first person POV, which gives readers a more intimate view of the protagonist. B. S. Daniels cleverly weaves a tale with many interesting characters in a way that’s easy to follow who’s who. The timing is perfect as Westerns are making a comeback after a long lull. B. S. Daniels has crafted a story that is both a tribute to and a reinvention of the Western, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting series. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer to Westerns, Trail of Fate is a journey worth taking.
Recommend this book:
A Tuft Of Thistledown
When the White Tide Came
L.Z. Rose
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
A Tuft of Thistledown by L.Z. Rose is a poetic and emotionally charged historical novel set in the aftermath of the Trail of Tears, a time when survival required both grit and grace. Horse Song, a Cherokee woman who lives in secrecy, is driven by the need to protect her family and preserve her dignity in a world designed to erase it. Her life collides once again with that of John Lucas Jr., a settler with a complicated past and buried feelings for the woman he once loved. As political tensions flare and westward expansion encroaches on what remains of Horse Song’s world, their story becomes a meditation on loss, belonging, and the soul’s capacity for forgiveness.
Author L.Z. Rose has a bold style and a sense of exactly how to pitch the more raw emotions of this story. The author does not shy away from the horrors of displacement. Yet the novel’s heart lies in its characters' deep emotional truths and the fragile beauty of what's left. The lyrical prose carries the emotional weight of history with quiet power and immense empathy, without it being an obvious feature in the story itself. The dialogue is wonderfully apt for the period, but what struck me most about the novel was its tenderness and the way it honors both the brutality of the historical moment and the resilience of the human spirit. Horse Song’s voice is unforgettable, at once wounded and wise, while John’s internal reckoning offers a compelling counterpoint. Overall, A Tuft of Thistledown is a stunning, sorrowful, and ultimately hopeful novel that illuminates a forgotten chapter of American history with grace and emotional clarity, and I would definitely recommend it.
A Tuft of Thistledown by L.Z. Rose is a poetic and emotionally charged historical novel set in the aftermath of the Trail of Tears, a time when survival required both grit and grace. Horse Song, a Cherokee woman who lives in secrecy, is driven by the need to protect her family and preserve her dignity in a world designed to erase it. Her life collides once again with that of John Lucas Jr., a settler with a complicated past and buried feelings for the woman he once loved. As political tensions flare and westward expansion encroaches on what remains of Horse Song’s world, their story becomes a meditation on loss, belonging, and the soul’s capacity for forgiveness.
Author L.Z. Rose has a bold style and a sense of exactly how to pitch the more raw emotions of this story. The author does not shy away from the horrors of displacement. Yet the novel’s heart lies in its characters' deep emotional truths and the fragile beauty of what's left. The lyrical prose carries the emotional weight of history with quiet power and immense empathy, without it being an obvious feature in the story itself. The dialogue is wonderfully apt for the period, but what struck me most about the novel was its tenderness and the way it honors both the brutality of the historical moment and the resilience of the human spirit. Horse Song’s voice is unforgettable, at once wounded and wise, while John’s internal reckoning offers a compelling counterpoint. Overall, A Tuft of Thistledown is a stunning, sorrowful, and ultimately hopeful novel that illuminates a forgotten chapter of American history with grace and emotional clarity, and I would definitely recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Mountain Refuge
The Mountain Series
Johny Weber
2025 Gold Medal
365 Pages
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Mountain Refuge is the first thrilling installment in Johny Weber's Mountain Series. Set in 1847, this story centers on 16-year-old Sabra, who is being prepped by her devious father to be sold into a brutal arranged marriage. Jacob, an elderly mountain man, rescues Sabra from her predicament and takes her to the mountains to live with him. Under Jacob's guidance, she learns to survive in this rugged environment. She eventually meets and falls in love with Kade, a trapper and fur trader who is getting ready to take an extended trip to Oregon. After Jacob's death, his half-Ute son, Blue Knife, takes Sabra to be his concubine. Blue Knife agrees to protect her from the Indians seeking to enslave her. Sabra ultimately grows to care for him. However, her heart will always belong to Kade. Will she and Kade ever reunite?
Hold onto your hats, readers! Mountain Refuge by Johny Weber offers a sensational and enlightening view of life in the mountains and the West during the 1840s in America. It is binge-worthy, and you'll find it impossible to put down. This story gives a brilliant introduction to Sabra and Kade—two characters who differ in life experiences but deeply connect in love. The historical setting is depicted well without pulling your attention away from the immersive storyline unfolding or the blossoming romance between Sabra and Kade. Themes of hardship, survival, and resilience are woven into the fabric of this novel, making it a satisfying and heartfelt read from beginning to end. It is perfect for fans of historical romance. I'm already tempted to grab the other installments in the series. I can't wait to be whisked away on yet another breathtaking frontier adventure.
Mountain Refuge is the first thrilling installment in Johny Weber's Mountain Series. Set in 1847, this story centers on 16-year-old Sabra, who is being prepped by her devious father to be sold into a brutal arranged marriage. Jacob, an elderly mountain man, rescues Sabra from her predicament and takes her to the mountains to live with him. Under Jacob's guidance, she learns to survive in this rugged environment. She eventually meets and falls in love with Kade, a trapper and fur trader who is getting ready to take an extended trip to Oregon. After Jacob's death, his half-Ute son, Blue Knife, takes Sabra to be his concubine. Blue Knife agrees to protect her from the Indians seeking to enslave her. Sabra ultimately grows to care for him. However, her heart will always belong to Kade. Will she and Kade ever reunite?
Hold onto your hats, readers! Mountain Refuge by Johny Weber offers a sensational and enlightening view of life in the mountains and the West during the 1840s in America. It is binge-worthy, and you'll find it impossible to put down. This story gives a brilliant introduction to Sabra and Kade—two characters who differ in life experiences but deeply connect in love. The historical setting is depicted well without pulling your attention away from the immersive storyline unfolding or the blossoming romance between Sabra and Kade. Themes of hardship, survival, and resilience are woven into the fabric of this novel, making it a satisfying and heartfelt read from beginning to end. It is perfect for fans of historical romance. I'm already tempted to grab the other installments in the series. I can't wait to be whisked away on yet another breathtaking frontier adventure.
Recommend this book:
Navarro's Gold
A Cole Baxter Adventure - Book 1 (Cole Baxter Western Adventures)
Dustin Hansen
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
In Navarro’s Gold by Dustin Hansen, the story starts in 1706, piquing the reader's interest, then jumps to the year 1868 to Nebraska, and then the reader is hooked. It is a cowboy story with the most captivating main character who leads the reader on a merry dance through the book with his innocence, trust, and belief in human nature. The reader will find that once they have met Cole Baxter, Maggie, Tilly, and Eliot Bianchi, the grandson of Dr. Lorenzo Bianchi the astronomer, the story starts to take a winding trail with many a surprise and twist that sometimes is unexpected and sometimes expected.
There is a treasure, romance, intrigue, impossible odds, and action for the reader to enjoy. The main character Cole Baxter is a mixture of a gentleman, an adventurer, an innocent, a romantic, someone who never seems to lose his love for life no matter what fate throws at him along the way. In Navarro’s Gold, Dustin Hansen has brought the genre of cowboys and Westerns back to life in the most delightful way with a sense of humor, a sense of innocence, and an old-fashioned adventure. It was a pleasure to read. I have not read a cowboy story in a long time and this made a wonderful change. The main character Cole Baxter is a treat. The reader will keep reading to the very last page just to find out who wins and the twist in the tail is truly something they will definitely not expect. This is a book that I certainly will be picking up again.
In Navarro’s Gold by Dustin Hansen, the story starts in 1706, piquing the reader's interest, then jumps to the year 1868 to Nebraska, and then the reader is hooked. It is a cowboy story with the most captivating main character who leads the reader on a merry dance through the book with his innocence, trust, and belief in human nature. The reader will find that once they have met Cole Baxter, Maggie, Tilly, and Eliot Bianchi, the grandson of Dr. Lorenzo Bianchi the astronomer, the story starts to take a winding trail with many a surprise and twist that sometimes is unexpected and sometimes expected.
There is a treasure, romance, intrigue, impossible odds, and action for the reader to enjoy. The main character Cole Baxter is a mixture of a gentleman, an adventurer, an innocent, a romantic, someone who never seems to lose his love for life no matter what fate throws at him along the way. In Navarro’s Gold, Dustin Hansen has brought the genre of cowboys and Westerns back to life in the most delightful way with a sense of humor, a sense of innocence, and an old-fashioned adventure. It was a pleasure to read. I have not read a cowboy story in a long time and this made a wonderful change. The main character Cole Baxter is a treat. The reader will keep reading to the very last page just to find out who wins and the twist in the tail is truly something they will definitely not expect. This is a book that I certainly will be picking up again.
Recommend this book:
Raising Elle
S.E. Reichert
2024 Honorable Mention
320 Pages
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert is a heartfelt tale of resilience and redemption set in the quaint town of Sweet Valley, Wyoming. The story follows Elle Sullivan, who returns to her hometown, battered and carrying a significant secret. Determined to reclaim her life, Elle embarks on a journey to regain her strength and assist her family in saving their struggling horse ranch. Her path to recovery is complicated by the reappearance of Blake O'Connor, her high school sweetheart, who stirs up old feelings and memories. The novel beautifully navigates themes of hardship, forgiveness, and the healing power of love as Elle confronts her past and strives to build a brighter future.
S.E. Reichert's writing is both poignant and engaging, drawing readers into Elle's emotional journey from the very first page. The plot is well-crafted, blending moments of intense drama with tender, introspective scenes that highlight the complexities of personal growth and forgiveness. The pacing is steady, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters' experiences without feeling rushed. The action is rooted in the everyday challenges of ranch life, adding an authentic touch to the narrative. Characters are richly developed, with Elle and Blake's evolving relationship serving as the emotional core of the story. Themes of resilience, love, and healing are interwoven seamlessly, making the novel both compelling and inspiring. Reichert's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of human emotions make Raising Elle a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and stories of personal transformation. The novel leaves readers with a sense of hope and a renewed belief in the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
Raising Elle by S.E. Reichert is a heartfelt tale of resilience and redemption set in the quaint town of Sweet Valley, Wyoming. The story follows Elle Sullivan, who returns to her hometown, battered and carrying a significant secret. Determined to reclaim her life, Elle embarks on a journey to regain her strength and assist her family in saving their struggling horse ranch. Her path to recovery is complicated by the reappearance of Blake O'Connor, her high school sweetheart, who stirs up old feelings and memories. The novel beautifully navigates themes of hardship, forgiveness, and the healing power of love as Elle confronts her past and strives to build a brighter future.
S.E. Reichert's writing is both poignant and engaging, drawing readers into Elle's emotional journey from the very first page. The plot is well-crafted, blending moments of intense drama with tender, introspective scenes that highlight the complexities of personal growth and forgiveness. The pacing is steady, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters' experiences without feeling rushed. The action is rooted in the everyday challenges of ranch life, adding an authentic touch to the narrative. Characters are richly developed, with Elle and Blake's evolving relationship serving as the emotional core of the story. Themes of resilience, love, and healing are interwoven seamlessly, making the novel both compelling and inspiring. Reichert's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of human emotions make Raising Elle a must-read for fans of contemporary romance and stories of personal transformation. The novel leaves readers with a sense of hope and a renewed belief in the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.
Recommend this book:
Scorched Earth
This Hallowed Ground Book 2
Donna E. Lane
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Scorched Earth: This Hallowed Ground Book 2 is a work of fiction in the Christian, historical, and Western genres. Penned by author Donna E. Lane, this gripping tale is set in 1883, blending the essence of the American West with themes reminiscent of the biblical story of Job. Mac and Ester, settled on their Georgia land, face unexpected peril when shadows from Mac's past resurface, leading to a harrowing revelation of his identity as a wanted Civil War criminal and Union army deserter. Forced to flee, they embark on a treacherous journey to escape authorities, with Mac's decision to return to the West unveiling a saga of survival against unforgiving landscapes and relentless pursuit.
Author Donna E. Lane utilizes both history and faith to craft a riveting read that immersed me in the rugged world of the American West while exploring themes of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of love. Lane's vivid descriptions are plentiful, detailed, and multisensory, transporting readers to the vast and unforgiving landscape of a harder time of living, where Mac and Ester's journey unfolded against a backdrop of adversity and danger. The palpable tension of the plot keeps you eagerly turning pages as the pace quickens and Mac’s past resurfaces, rooting for the protagonists as they face unimaginable challenges to their future happiness. There’s a keen sense of emotion in the dialogue, and it’s easy to read between the lines and explore the impending pressure on the couple, as well as their love for one another. Lane weaves together a strong biblical allegory with this compelling, emotionally charged style of storytelling, creating a narrative that feels natural, but also has a lesson that resonates long after the final chapter. Overall, Scorched Earth is a highly engaging Western drama with a lot to offer, and I’d certainly recommend it.
Scorched Earth: This Hallowed Ground Book 2 is a work of fiction in the Christian, historical, and Western genres. Penned by author Donna E. Lane, this gripping tale is set in 1883, blending the essence of the American West with themes reminiscent of the biblical story of Job. Mac and Ester, settled on their Georgia land, face unexpected peril when shadows from Mac's past resurface, leading to a harrowing revelation of his identity as a wanted Civil War criminal and Union army deserter. Forced to flee, they embark on a treacherous journey to escape authorities, with Mac's decision to return to the West unveiling a saga of survival against unforgiving landscapes and relentless pursuit.
Author Donna E. Lane utilizes both history and faith to craft a riveting read that immersed me in the rugged world of the American West while exploring themes of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of love. Lane's vivid descriptions are plentiful, detailed, and multisensory, transporting readers to the vast and unforgiving landscape of a harder time of living, where Mac and Ester's journey unfolded against a backdrop of adversity and danger. The palpable tension of the plot keeps you eagerly turning pages as the pace quickens and Mac’s past resurfaces, rooting for the protagonists as they face unimaginable challenges to their future happiness. There’s a keen sense of emotion in the dialogue, and it’s easy to read between the lines and explore the impending pressure on the couple, as well as their love for one another. Lane weaves together a strong biblical allegory with this compelling, emotionally charged style of storytelling, creating a narrative that feels natural, but also has a lesson that resonates long after the final chapter. Overall, Scorched Earth is a highly engaging Western drama with a lot to offer, and I’d certainly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Smoke and Other Storms (The Revere Trilogy Book 1)
J.L. Delavega
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Out in the Rim, everything goes and your survival depends on you alone. In Smoke and Other Storms: The Revere Trilogy #1 by J.L. Delavega, we follow the Revere family headed by the matriarch Moira and her descendants. Having made a name for themselves in all the worst ways, no one would dare try to take on this family. Only it seems that someone is stupid enough to target the Reveres. It is up to Adelaide and her family to protect one another and everything they have worked to build in this desolate place they call home.
Smoke and Other Storms by J.L. Delavega was a pleasant surprise for many reasons, the first being that it is a story led by a family of strong female characters; from the matriarch Moira who has a strong will and even stronger resolve to protect her family to Adelaide, the silent but vigilant granddaughter, and her sister Leagan who is a badass sniper. These women embody their strengths and cover each other’s weaknesses and it was so refreshing to read a book that didn’t have a man coming in to save the day. As much as I’m a fan of romance, I loved the tone and plot of this book. Delavega did such an amazing job, not only with the world-building but the dialogue in the story. I felt as though I was being transported to the Rim and facing every obstacle alongside the Reveres. Smoke and Other Storms truly is a breath of fresh air and I highly recommend this book to any avid reader.
Out in the Rim, everything goes and your survival depends on you alone. In Smoke and Other Storms: The Revere Trilogy #1 by J.L. Delavega, we follow the Revere family headed by the matriarch Moira and her descendants. Having made a name for themselves in all the worst ways, no one would dare try to take on this family. Only it seems that someone is stupid enough to target the Reveres. It is up to Adelaide and her family to protect one another and everything they have worked to build in this desolate place they call home.
Smoke and Other Storms by J.L. Delavega was a pleasant surprise for many reasons, the first being that it is a story led by a family of strong female characters; from the matriarch Moira who has a strong will and even stronger resolve to protect her family to Adelaide, the silent but vigilant granddaughter, and her sister Leagan who is a badass sniper. These women embody their strengths and cover each other’s weaknesses and it was so refreshing to read a book that didn’t have a man coming in to save the day. As much as I’m a fan of romance, I loved the tone and plot of this book. Delavega did such an amazing job, not only with the world-building but the dialogue in the story. I felt as though I was being transported to the Rim and facing every obstacle alongside the Reveres. Smoke and Other Storms truly is a breath of fresh air and I highly recommend this book to any avid reader.
Recommend this book:
She Died Then Showed Me
The Pioneer Ranch Saga
Samar Reine
2024 Gold Medal
330 Pages
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Fiction - Western
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
She Died Then Showed Me: The Pioneer Ranch Saga by Samar Reine is about Peyton Chase’s struggle to keep her inheritance. Peyton felt overwhelmed when her father passed away, having to deal with both her grief and the enormous debt she inherited from him. Peyton was shocked to learn that her father had tried to sell her late mother’s paintings. Peyton's quest to learn her family's secrets is sparked by cryptic messages in her mother's paintings. Peyton is determined to keep her family's inheritance, but she can only do it if she can figure out the hints concealed in her late mother's work. Peyton asks Blake Adler to lead a corporate hunt on the property as a last resort to salvage the family ranch. However, Blake quickly sets his sights on Peyton instead.
She Died Then Showed Me: The Pioneer Ranch Saga by Samar is interesting and exciting. The story was fast-paced and full of action. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what would happen next. It was a page-turner, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The descriptions of New Mexico were so vivid that I could visualize them. The characters were intriguing and dynamic. I could relate to them, and they could be anyone I know. My favorite character was Peyton. I could relate to her struggle with her demons. I enjoyed the developing romance between Peyton and Blake. Relationships, self-discovery, and struggles were woven into the plot. The story was vivid and beautifully written, and it is a lovely story about family and love.
She Died Then Showed Me: The Pioneer Ranch Saga by Samar Reine is about Peyton Chase’s struggle to keep her inheritance. Peyton felt overwhelmed when her father passed away, having to deal with both her grief and the enormous debt she inherited from him. Peyton was shocked to learn that her father had tried to sell her late mother’s paintings. Peyton's quest to learn her family's secrets is sparked by cryptic messages in her mother's paintings. Peyton is determined to keep her family's inheritance, but she can only do it if she can figure out the hints concealed in her late mother's work. Peyton asks Blake Adler to lead a corporate hunt on the property as a last resort to salvage the family ranch. However, Blake quickly sets his sights on Peyton instead.
She Died Then Showed Me: The Pioneer Ranch Saga by Samar is interesting and exciting. The story was fast-paced and full of action. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what would happen next. It was a page-turner, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The descriptions of New Mexico were so vivid that I could visualize them. The characters were intriguing and dynamic. I could relate to them, and they could be anyone I know. My favorite character was Peyton. I could relate to her struggle with her demons. I enjoyed the developing romance between Peyton and Blake. Relationships, self-discovery, and struggles were woven into the plot. The story was vivid and beautifully written, and it is a lovely story about family and love.
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