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Recommend this book:
Of Light and Freedom
The Star Queen Chronicles Book 2
Rachel Fallon
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Of Light and Freedom is book two in Rachel Fallon's fantasy series, The Star Queen Chronicles. In book one, Of Darkness and Ruination, Asteria Zagreus, enslaved on Celesterra, is placed in the Dusk Kingdom and given to Prince Cyrus Tynan. Refusing submission, she plans her escape. As war looms and King Calix of the Night Kingdom advances, Asteria faces choices that could reshape her fate and the continent’s future. Now, in this second installment, Asteria must face the consequences of a revealed identity while struggling to control powers that have always escaped her. Calix, after waiting centuries for his mate, finds himself tossed into a conflict between two kingdoms. As war brews, the gods deliver their command, and the continent edges toward upheaval that will redefine everything they have known. “The prophecy given to them spoke of a Star Queen who would rise when the night was darkest. Who would cast down the usurper, and free the people from their bondage...”
Of Light and Freedom by Rachel Fallon is a wonderful story that goes a long way in making a fantasy still feel grounded, which is a testament to Fallon's skill as a writer. The author embraces Asteria’s emotional breakdown over her Fae identity and the falsehood of her past with honest fear, grief, and numbness, in raw physicality. Calix’s vulnerability and intense feelings for her harness the huge emotional bond and his own love, guilt, hope, and regret. Fallon offers an original mythology, from the loss of ancestral powers to the origins of Minotaurs and the role of divine beings, and, yes, dragons! The lore is alive and textured in a way that evokes classic, epic storytelling. That said, the very best aspect is the subversion of traditional tropes and gender norms. Through Zakat we see a refreshing queerness that defies heteronormative fantasy traditions, as does Asteria’s refusal to embrace royalty or motherhood just because it’s expected of her. This reimagining of fantasy archetypes modernizes the novel in a genre in desperate need of inclusion, and alongside everything else, this is a series I'd give a whole bucket of stars if I could. Very highly recommended.
Of Light and Freedom is book two in Rachel Fallon's fantasy series, The Star Queen Chronicles. In book one, Of Darkness and Ruination, Asteria Zagreus, enslaved on Celesterra, is placed in the Dusk Kingdom and given to Prince Cyrus Tynan. Refusing submission, she plans her escape. As war looms and King Calix of the Night Kingdom advances, Asteria faces choices that could reshape her fate and the continent’s future. Now, in this second installment, Asteria must face the consequences of a revealed identity while struggling to control powers that have always escaped her. Calix, after waiting centuries for his mate, finds himself tossed into a conflict between two kingdoms. As war brews, the gods deliver their command, and the continent edges toward upheaval that will redefine everything they have known. “The prophecy given to them spoke of a Star Queen who would rise when the night was darkest. Who would cast down the usurper, and free the people from their bondage...”
Of Light and Freedom by Rachel Fallon is a wonderful story that goes a long way in making a fantasy still feel grounded, which is a testament to Fallon's skill as a writer. The author embraces Asteria’s emotional breakdown over her Fae identity and the falsehood of her past with honest fear, grief, and numbness, in raw physicality. Calix’s vulnerability and intense feelings for her harness the huge emotional bond and his own love, guilt, hope, and regret. Fallon offers an original mythology, from the loss of ancestral powers to the origins of Minotaurs and the role of divine beings, and, yes, dragons! The lore is alive and textured in a way that evokes classic, epic storytelling. That said, the very best aspect is the subversion of traditional tropes and gender norms. Through Zakat we see a refreshing queerness that defies heteronormative fantasy traditions, as does Asteria’s refusal to embrace royalty or motherhood just because it’s expected of her. This reimagining of fantasy archetypes modernizes the novel in a genre in desperate need of inclusion, and alongside everything else, this is a series I'd give a whole bucket of stars if I could. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Empowering the Wolf's Heart
A Red Riding Hood Retelling
Ava Grace Bentley
2025 Honorable Mention
470 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite
Ava Grace Bentley brings us a beautiful fantasy/sci-fi romance in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart: A Red Riding Hood Retelling. Alia is a Red assassin, the matriarch's granddaughter and the heir apparent of the Reds, whose mission is to eliminate magic and protect humankind. However, she has a secret that could cost her life and that of her family if discovered. She has been questioning the rules that govern the Reds for some time. When Alia is sent to kill the werewolf known as the Hood, who murdered her grandfather, she doesn’t expect to end up fighting for the life of the kidnapped bait. Shen, the werewolf prince, has lost hope and the will to live, but finds himself intrigued by this little assassin. Could their choices mean the end of their lives?
Author Ava Grace Bentley successfully captures readers' imaginations in this retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood tale. The first-person narrative, told from the perspectives of our two protagonists, brings their thoughts and feelings into a more perceivable and personal view. This book is filled with characters rich in personality and wit. Sensory stimulation will make you feel every shiver as though it were your own. I loved the overarching theme of total surrender throughout these pages and how different emotions have specific scents. The story includes plenty of action with perfectly choreographed fight scenes, dark magic, and mythical creatures. The twists and turns in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart will leave you reeling with new possible truths. This is a slow-burn romance, making it suitable for young adult readers as well.
Ava Grace Bentley brings us a beautiful fantasy/sci-fi romance in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart: A Red Riding Hood Retelling. Alia is a Red assassin, the matriarch's granddaughter and the heir apparent of the Reds, whose mission is to eliminate magic and protect humankind. However, she has a secret that could cost her life and that of her family if discovered. She has been questioning the rules that govern the Reds for some time. When Alia is sent to kill the werewolf known as the Hood, who murdered her grandfather, she doesn’t expect to end up fighting for the life of the kidnapped bait. Shen, the werewolf prince, has lost hope and the will to live, but finds himself intrigued by this little assassin. Could their choices mean the end of their lives?
Author Ava Grace Bentley successfully captures readers' imaginations in this retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood tale. The first-person narrative, told from the perspectives of our two protagonists, brings their thoughts and feelings into a more perceivable and personal view. This book is filled with characters rich in personality and wit. Sensory stimulation will make you feel every shiver as though it were your own. I loved the overarching theme of total surrender throughout these pages and how different emotions have specific scents. The story includes plenty of action with perfectly choreographed fight scenes, dark magic, and mythical creatures. The twists and turns in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart will leave you reeling with new possible truths. This is a slow-burn romance, making it suitable for young adult readers as well.
Recommend this book:
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Periphery
AA DaSilva
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Willam Haines for Readers' Favorite
In Periphery by AA DaSilva, Charlotte struggles to decide between what she has done in the past, the people in her life, and the events that are gradually starting to unfold before her. Her conflicts stem from unresolved feelings toward her father-in-law and her late husband Jared. Charlotte's life is turned upside down when Simon (Sy), a mysterious man enters her life. Conspiracy and supernatural scenarios, which jeopardize Charlotte's life, are introduced by Simon’s link with the mysterious organization called Quantym, which focuses on experiments on consciousness and the afterlife. Whenever Simon demonstrates his power to ‘jump’ between realms, the stakes rise, making Charlotte ponder on her doubts as well as the dangers associated with Jared. These aspiring alliances are showcased particularly so with Sy, a protector who intervenes during moments of risk. Portraying Charlotte’s personal dilemmas and growing tension, the story continues with a series of decisions that will determine Charlotte's and other characters’ paths.
Periphery stands out in delivering the complex relationships of the characters as well as the thrilling supernatural subplot. The focus on Charlotte's development is quite gripping and the reader will not only understand her struggles but can relate to them as well. The writing addresses themes of identity, trust, and carrying the weight of choices without being overly didactic. Simon’s abilities and the existence of the Quantym organization help to make the story more compelling and escalate with each discovery. AA DaSilva does a great job of keeping the suspense and the surprise while proposing more pensive and clever moments in the blend of the main characters’ problems and the metaphysical aspects of the series. This slow-burn nature of the story works well, and the dialogue feels real, especially as characters grapple with the very nature of the ability Simon possesses. All in all, it is a well-wrought tale that draws the reader into its web of unfolding events to make the audience reflect on pertinent issues such as treachery, affection, and the nature of existence.
In Periphery by AA DaSilva, Charlotte struggles to decide between what she has done in the past, the people in her life, and the events that are gradually starting to unfold before her. Her conflicts stem from unresolved feelings toward her father-in-law and her late husband Jared. Charlotte's life is turned upside down when Simon (Sy), a mysterious man enters her life. Conspiracy and supernatural scenarios, which jeopardize Charlotte's life, are introduced by Simon’s link with the mysterious organization called Quantym, which focuses on experiments on consciousness and the afterlife. Whenever Simon demonstrates his power to ‘jump’ between realms, the stakes rise, making Charlotte ponder on her doubts as well as the dangers associated with Jared. These aspiring alliances are showcased particularly so with Sy, a protector who intervenes during moments of risk. Portraying Charlotte’s personal dilemmas and growing tension, the story continues with a series of decisions that will determine Charlotte's and other characters’ paths.
Periphery stands out in delivering the complex relationships of the characters as well as the thrilling supernatural subplot. The focus on Charlotte's development is quite gripping and the reader will not only understand her struggles but can relate to them as well. The writing addresses themes of identity, trust, and carrying the weight of choices without being overly didactic. Simon’s abilities and the existence of the Quantym organization help to make the story more compelling and escalate with each discovery. AA DaSilva does a great job of keeping the suspense and the surprise while proposing more pensive and clever moments in the blend of the main characters’ problems and the metaphysical aspects of the series. This slow-burn nature of the story works well, and the dialogue feels real, especially as characters grapple with the very nature of the ability Simon possesses. All in all, it is a well-wrought tale that draws the reader into its web of unfolding events to make the audience reflect on pertinent issues such as treachery, affection, and the nature of existence.
Recommend this book:
Aftermath
Into the Unknown
Lena Gibson
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
In Lena Gibson’s Aftermath, Robin’s life is completely shattered when an asteroid hits the earth, leaving her to scavenge for food and care for her grandfather. They have lived together in hiding for three years, unable to trust anyone. But things change for the worse when a biker gang moves into their area. Robin and Kory never would have crossed paths. She, a sheltered and resourceful young woman, dreamed of attending Yale and using her brain. Kory, a rugged survivor from the streets of Seattle, relied on his wits. But the biker gang’s presence in town makes them forget everything and focus on their survival. Robin’s dying grandfather has asked her to seek out his extended family in South Dakota. When Kory saves her, the duo sets out on the dangerous journey to a bunker in South Dakota, facing inclement weather and ruthless survivors. They might find more than a new home through this journey in which they must learn to trust and cherish each other.
Aftermath: Into the Unknown by Lena Gibson is a compelling post-apocalyptic narrative infused with romance, humanity, and realism. The author creates a world that a catastrophic event has wrecked, yet it is immersive. The story is full of tension and suspense as Robin navigates the dangers of the outside world. The author creates a sense of unease and uncertainty as readers follow Robin in her daily routine right from the start of the narrative. This unease creates anticipation in readers as they are keen on discovering what happens next to the characters. Characterization is top-notch, and readers will enjoy the balance the author makes between Kory’s street smarts and Robin’s determination. These characters are genuinely flawed and sophisticated. This suspenseful romance delivers a beautiful treat for a wider audience.
In Lena Gibson’s Aftermath, Robin’s life is completely shattered when an asteroid hits the earth, leaving her to scavenge for food and care for her grandfather. They have lived together in hiding for three years, unable to trust anyone. But things change for the worse when a biker gang moves into their area. Robin and Kory never would have crossed paths. She, a sheltered and resourceful young woman, dreamed of attending Yale and using her brain. Kory, a rugged survivor from the streets of Seattle, relied on his wits. But the biker gang’s presence in town makes them forget everything and focus on their survival. Robin’s dying grandfather has asked her to seek out his extended family in South Dakota. When Kory saves her, the duo sets out on the dangerous journey to a bunker in South Dakota, facing inclement weather and ruthless survivors. They might find more than a new home through this journey in which they must learn to trust and cherish each other.
Aftermath: Into the Unknown by Lena Gibson is a compelling post-apocalyptic narrative infused with romance, humanity, and realism. The author creates a world that a catastrophic event has wrecked, yet it is immersive. The story is full of tension and suspense as Robin navigates the dangers of the outside world. The author creates a sense of unease and uncertainty as readers follow Robin in her daily routine right from the start of the narrative. This unease creates anticipation in readers as they are keen on discovering what happens next to the characters. Characterization is top-notch, and readers will enjoy the balance the author makes between Kory’s street smarts and Robin’s determination. These characters are genuinely flawed and sophisticated. This suspenseful romance delivers a beautiful treat for a wider audience.
Recommend this book:
A Dagger in the Ivy
Dorothy Dreyer
2025 Gold Medal
420 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
A Dagger in the Ivy by Dorothy Dreyer takes the reader into the perilous world of Terre Ferique, where kingdoms are on the brink of war, and ancient magic stirs beneath the surface. Celeste Westergaard, a half-fae warrior and heir to the throne of Delasurvia, is caught between duty and destiny. As supernatural threats rise, political alliances are made through her arranged marriage to Torbin, the Prince of Hedera. Celeste must navigate a kingdom riddled with secrets, shifting loyalties, and her awakening powers. With the threat of madness looming if her fae magic does not emerge, and Dante’s cold half-brother blocking her every move with hostility, Celeste races against time to protect her people and unravel the truth of her bloodline.
Dorothy Dreyer delivers a richly woven fantasy filled with political tension, romance, emotions, and a heroine who balances her fierce strength with inner vulnerability. Celeste is a compelling lead torn between the expectations of royalty and the unpredictability of her magical heritage. The world-building is outstanding and immersive. It blends political instability with mythic elements and dark enchantment. The romance elements simmer beneath the surface before fully blooming. It adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes plot. I loved the chemistry between Celeste and Dante. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and became a lifeline for them both. The descriptions are lyrical and atmospheric, enhancing the sense of danger and mystery. A Dagger in the Ivy is a captivating blend of fantasy and intrigue, perfect for Sarah J. Maas or Holly Black fans. I loved it and highly recommend it!
A Dagger in the Ivy by Dorothy Dreyer takes the reader into the perilous world of Terre Ferique, where kingdoms are on the brink of war, and ancient magic stirs beneath the surface. Celeste Westergaard, a half-fae warrior and heir to the throne of Delasurvia, is caught between duty and destiny. As supernatural threats rise, political alliances are made through her arranged marriage to Torbin, the Prince of Hedera. Celeste must navigate a kingdom riddled with secrets, shifting loyalties, and her awakening powers. With the threat of madness looming if her fae magic does not emerge, and Dante’s cold half-brother blocking her every move with hostility, Celeste races against time to protect her people and unravel the truth of her bloodline.
Dorothy Dreyer delivers a richly woven fantasy filled with political tension, romance, emotions, and a heroine who balances her fierce strength with inner vulnerability. Celeste is a compelling lead torn between the expectations of royalty and the unpredictability of her magical heritage. The world-building is outstanding and immersive. It blends political instability with mythic elements and dark enchantment. The romance elements simmer beneath the surface before fully blooming. It adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes plot. I loved the chemistry between Celeste and Dante. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and became a lifeline for them both. The descriptions are lyrical and atmospheric, enhancing the sense of danger and mystery. A Dagger in the Ivy is a captivating blend of fantasy and intrigue, perfect for Sarah J. Maas or Holly Black fans. I loved it and highly recommend it!
Recommend this book:
The Reset
Time Corrector Series Book 3
Avi Datta
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Dr. Vincent Abajian, the founder of Quantum World and Egami Corporation, had no choice but to stop his adversary Philip Nardin from going ahead with his plan. Nardin had an arrangement with politicians in different states to supply him with homeless people as “lab rats” for his cloning project, and in return, he would provide clean energy to these states. Nardin kidnaps Vincent’s daughter Nozomi, and forces Vincent to relinquish his time-correcting powers. Things quickly get out of hand as world leaders launch a disastrous arms race to weaponize Intreton, a very important mineral for Quantum World, and the purest energy source that can alter reality if mishandled. In a bid to save reality from the imminent danger, Vincent partners with Nardin against political and military forces. He finds himself uncovering ugly truths about someone close to him as he encounters Nardin’s time-twisted alter ego called the Lunatic, all of which open the doors to the possibility of a reset. Get yourself Avi Datta’s The Reset: Time Corrector Series Book 3 to discover how it all goes down.
If you are looking for a gripping time travel, science fiction novel laced with a compelling tale of love, fate, betrayal, deceit, secrets, conspiracies, power, drama, thrills, and action, among much more, Avi Datta’s The Reset is just what you should be looking for. Datta yet again weaves a mind-blowing plot, starring the enigmatic genius Dr. Vincent Abajian. The evocative depictions breathe life into the scenes, making the reading experience feel like watching a sci-fi movie. Datta drives the storyline in a non-linear way, expertly managing the different timelines of the story. This gave the plot a beautifully complex touch. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and the spell-binding plot twists had me flipping through page after page. The well-crafted cast’s complex traits and emotions allowed me to connect with them. Being the final installment in the Time Corrector Series, The Reset can be savored more by first reading the previous installments. This page-turner is an epic and captivating finale of an amazing series.
Dr. Vincent Abajian, the founder of Quantum World and Egami Corporation, had no choice but to stop his adversary Philip Nardin from going ahead with his plan. Nardin had an arrangement with politicians in different states to supply him with homeless people as “lab rats” for his cloning project, and in return, he would provide clean energy to these states. Nardin kidnaps Vincent’s daughter Nozomi, and forces Vincent to relinquish his time-correcting powers. Things quickly get out of hand as world leaders launch a disastrous arms race to weaponize Intreton, a very important mineral for Quantum World, and the purest energy source that can alter reality if mishandled. In a bid to save reality from the imminent danger, Vincent partners with Nardin against political and military forces. He finds himself uncovering ugly truths about someone close to him as he encounters Nardin’s time-twisted alter ego called the Lunatic, all of which open the doors to the possibility of a reset. Get yourself Avi Datta’s The Reset: Time Corrector Series Book 3 to discover how it all goes down.
If you are looking for a gripping time travel, science fiction novel laced with a compelling tale of love, fate, betrayal, deceit, secrets, conspiracies, power, drama, thrills, and action, among much more, Avi Datta’s The Reset is just what you should be looking for. Datta yet again weaves a mind-blowing plot, starring the enigmatic genius Dr. Vincent Abajian. The evocative depictions breathe life into the scenes, making the reading experience feel like watching a sci-fi movie. Datta drives the storyline in a non-linear way, expertly managing the different timelines of the story. This gave the plot a beautifully complex touch. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and the spell-binding plot twists had me flipping through page after page. The well-crafted cast’s complex traits and emotions allowed me to connect with them. Being the final installment in the Time Corrector Series, The Reset can be savored more by first reading the previous installments. This page-turner is an epic and captivating finale of an amazing series.
Recommend this book:
Stone of Love
Stones of Iona
Margaret Izard
2024 Honorable Mention
354 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Stone of Love is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and paranormal adventure subgenres, and it forms the opening novel of the Stones of Iona series. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of a sexual nature, some moderate violence, and references to abuse. Penned by author Margaret Izard, the story unveils the transformative journey of Brielle DeVolt, an American scholar seeking solace from her past in the renovation of Laird Colin MacDougall's chapel. The spark between Brielle and Colin is immediate, but the shadows of her abusive ex cast doubt on her ability to love again. As the narrative unfolds, woven with Fae magic and hereditary duties, a complex tale of love, trust, and the battle against evil forces emerges.
Author Margaret Izard has crafted a highly imaginative and whimsical story world where readers can easily step into a realm in which romance intertwines beautifully with the mystical. The narrative structure is closely linked to its characters and their emotions, offering huge personal depth and making their emotional struggles palpable in every high and low of the plot. I really enjoyed the time-travel element as an added layer of intrigue and felt that the converging plotlines around it and the internal logic of how it worked made good sense. The author also has a strong talent for vivid description, with atmospheric lexis that transports the reader to the Scottish landscape to gloriously enhance the romance and mood of it all. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Stone of Love as a must-read for fans of paranormal romance, and I cannot wait to find out where the series goes from here.
Stone of Love is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and paranormal adventure subgenres, and it forms the opening novel of the Stones of Iona series. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of a sexual nature, some moderate violence, and references to abuse. Penned by author Margaret Izard, the story unveils the transformative journey of Brielle DeVolt, an American scholar seeking solace from her past in the renovation of Laird Colin MacDougall's chapel. The spark between Brielle and Colin is immediate, but the shadows of her abusive ex cast doubt on her ability to love again. As the narrative unfolds, woven with Fae magic and hereditary duties, a complex tale of love, trust, and the battle against evil forces emerges.
Author Margaret Izard has crafted a highly imaginative and whimsical story world where readers can easily step into a realm in which romance intertwines beautifully with the mystical. The narrative structure is closely linked to its characters and their emotions, offering huge personal depth and making their emotional struggles palpable in every high and low of the plot. I really enjoyed the time-travel element as an added layer of intrigue and felt that the converging plotlines around it and the internal logic of how it worked made good sense. The author also has a strong talent for vivid description, with atmospheric lexis that transports the reader to the Scottish landscape to gloriously enhance the romance and mood of it all. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Stone of Love as a must-read for fans of paranormal romance, and I cannot wait to find out where the series goes from here.
Recommend this book:
 ruled by the Fae. They took humans as property and placed them in households to serve as eternal slaves once they reached the age of twenty-one. The stunning Asteria was one such human whose beauty rivaled the Fae. When Asteria came of age, she reported to the ...){kind=link}
Of Darkness and Ruination
Rachel Fallon
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
The Celesterra continent held six kingdoms (Dawn, Dusk, Night, Day, Sunrise, and Sunset) ruled by the Fae. They took humans as property and placed them in households to serve as eternal slaves once they reached the age of twenty-one. The stunning Asteria was one such human whose beauty rivaled the Fae. When Asteria came of age, she reported to the kingdom of Dusk as Prince Cyrus’ slave. The prince lusted after her, but he was cruel, and Asteria would not stand being an abused slave for the rest of her life. She started plotting her escape, but fate had other plans. Amidst the war between rival kingdoms, family conflicts, betrayal, and public enemies, Asteria soon realizes that her entire life was a lie. Follow Asteria’s fight for survival in Of Darkness and Ruination by Rachel Fallon.
Of Darkness and Ruination by Rachel Fallon is a story of mystery and intrigue. Everything about this novel grabbed my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat. I could never predict what would happen next because the suspense was perfect. How would you feel if the entire world became dominated by another species that held humans to ransom? I don’t want to imagine it. Fate dropped Asteria into a world of politics, deception, mind games, and power play. It would take top-rate cunning, cruelty, and a dead soul to triumph. Yet Asteria creates a balance, which makes her my favorite character. Besides her, I fell in love with Calix. Oh, the flirting, teasing, romance, and barely restrained hunger between Calix and Asteria. It was so worth it. I also adored Eryx, Baach, Titan, Harpina, Delia, Priscilla, Lilith, and even Eris. They made a dependable tribe. This is a beautiful story with a great plot and development. I didn’t expect such a twist that linked Asteria to the Day Kingdom and the subsequent cliffhanger. I was sad to turn the last page, but the story continues. Looking forward to book two.
The Celesterra continent held six kingdoms (Dawn, Dusk, Night, Day, Sunrise, and Sunset) ruled by the Fae. They took humans as property and placed them in households to serve as eternal slaves once they reached the age of twenty-one. The stunning Asteria was one such human whose beauty rivaled the Fae. When Asteria came of age, she reported to the kingdom of Dusk as Prince Cyrus’ slave. The prince lusted after her, but he was cruel, and Asteria would not stand being an abused slave for the rest of her life. She started plotting her escape, but fate had other plans. Amidst the war between rival kingdoms, family conflicts, betrayal, and public enemies, Asteria soon realizes that her entire life was a lie. Follow Asteria’s fight for survival in Of Darkness and Ruination by Rachel Fallon.
Of Darkness and Ruination by Rachel Fallon is a story of mystery and intrigue. Everything about this novel grabbed my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat. I could never predict what would happen next because the suspense was perfect. How would you feel if the entire world became dominated by another species that held humans to ransom? I don’t want to imagine it. Fate dropped Asteria into a world of politics, deception, mind games, and power play. It would take top-rate cunning, cruelty, and a dead soul to triumph. Yet Asteria creates a balance, which makes her my favorite character. Besides her, I fell in love with Calix. Oh, the flirting, teasing, romance, and barely restrained hunger between Calix and Asteria. It was so worth it. I also adored Eryx, Baach, Titan, Harpina, Delia, Priscilla, Lilith, and even Eris. They made a dependable tribe. This is a beautiful story with a great plot and development. I didn’t expect such a twist that linked Asteria to the Day Kingdom and the subsequent cliffhanger. I was sad to turn the last page, but the story continues. Looking forward to book two.
Recommend this book:
Every Dark Shadow
Whispers of Dust & Darkness Book 1
Sarah Zimm
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Every Dark Shadow is a work of fiction in the fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Whispers of Dust and Darkness series. It is intended for young adult readers but does contain elements of violence, some dark themes, and strong language. Penned by author Sarah Zimm, this captivating tale immerses readers in a world where magic, mystery, and rebellion collide. Ophelia Dannan, an orphan with hidden powers, is kept in the mortal world, her memories sealed away from the Gray King of Magus. A scholar, a smuggler, and a soldier become her protectors, each guiding her with different perspectives and a unique approach to shielding Ophelia. Rune introduces her to idyllic farmsteads, Falcon teaches street survival, and Hart guards her most intensely of all. Ophelia's perilous quest becomes a compelling journey of self-discovery, magic, and rebellion against a tyrannical regime.
Author Sarah Zimm's narrative unfolds like a captivating puzzle, revealing layers of Ophelia's past and the impending darkness threatening her. One of the novel's major strengths lies in its intricate world-building, as the story seamlessly weaves between realms, offering glimpses of a kingdom in turmoil. The level of atmosphere and detail is immense, with new dark vistas emerging at every turn and a real sense of how the characters’ attitudes are shaped by the culture and challenges of the world they inhabit. The well-developed characters are an asset in themselves, and I found myself especially drawn to Falcon’s enigmatic ways. The dialogue is superb, offering slick exchanges, humor that lightens even the darkest moments, and a smooth device for plot exposition to keep YA audiences from switching off. Overall, I would certainly recommend Every Dark Shadow as a masterful blend of fantasy and adventure, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its suspenseful plot and well-crafted characters. I can’t wait to read more from this author and series.
Every Dark Shadow is a work of fiction in the fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Whispers of Dust and Darkness series. It is intended for young adult readers but does contain elements of violence, some dark themes, and strong language. Penned by author Sarah Zimm, this captivating tale immerses readers in a world where magic, mystery, and rebellion collide. Ophelia Dannan, an orphan with hidden powers, is kept in the mortal world, her memories sealed away from the Gray King of Magus. A scholar, a smuggler, and a soldier become her protectors, each guiding her with different perspectives and a unique approach to shielding Ophelia. Rune introduces her to idyllic farmsteads, Falcon teaches street survival, and Hart guards her most intensely of all. Ophelia's perilous quest becomes a compelling journey of self-discovery, magic, and rebellion against a tyrannical regime.
Author Sarah Zimm's narrative unfolds like a captivating puzzle, revealing layers of Ophelia's past and the impending darkness threatening her. One of the novel's major strengths lies in its intricate world-building, as the story seamlessly weaves between realms, offering glimpses of a kingdom in turmoil. The level of atmosphere and detail is immense, with new dark vistas emerging at every turn and a real sense of how the characters’ attitudes are shaped by the culture and challenges of the world they inhabit. The well-developed characters are an asset in themselves, and I found myself especially drawn to Falcon’s enigmatic ways. The dialogue is superb, offering slick exchanges, humor that lightens even the darkest moments, and a smooth device for plot exposition to keep YA audiences from switching off. Overall, I would certainly recommend Every Dark Shadow as a masterful blend of fantasy and adventure, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its suspenseful plot and well-crafted characters. I can’t wait to read more from this author and series.
Recommend this book:
Inked
Rachel Rener
2024 Gold Medal
347 Pages
Check current price
Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Rachel Rener’s Inked is the first book in the Gilded Blood series. Talia borrows ink from Zayn’s office to finish a tattoo of a cobra with a rattlesnake tail. After Roy enters the bathroom, Talia hears him scream. She discovers a snake identical to the tattoo, ready to strike. The next day, Talia goes to Zayn’s apartment and finds Biscuit, a parrot that looks like one of Zayn’s tattoos. Taking Biscuit and a Rune book with her, Talia returns to the tattoo studio. In Zayn’s office, she discovers a portal to the Fae Realm. Talia’s blood begins glowing gold, and she finds Zayn has a lot of explaining to do. Zayn needs Talia to accompany him on a mission to retrieve the rare delphinium flowers to counteract Sol’s control over the realm.
Rachel Rener uses Talia’s perspective to reveal her inner turmoil. It shows her lack of confidence and low self-esteem when Talia compares herself to others. Learning Zayn is an incubus, I could relate to Talia feeling that he had taken advantage of her. I found Biscuit’s antics humorous. He did aerial tricks for Talia in exchange for an almond. Each obstacle Talia has to overcome is written in exceptional detail. The story has multiple twists, which make it unpredictable. The suspense builds in intensity as Talia questions her feelings about her family’s heritage. Her Jewish mother’s constant phone calls with embarrassing questions made their dialogue realistic. The end was bittersweet, and I am eager to read the sequel. Inked is an urban fantasy romance where getting a tattoo may be more dangerous than you realize.
Rachel Rener’s Inked is the first book in the Gilded Blood series. Talia borrows ink from Zayn’s office to finish a tattoo of a cobra with a rattlesnake tail. After Roy enters the bathroom, Talia hears him scream. She discovers a snake identical to the tattoo, ready to strike. The next day, Talia goes to Zayn’s apartment and finds Biscuit, a parrot that looks like one of Zayn’s tattoos. Taking Biscuit and a Rune book with her, Talia returns to the tattoo studio. In Zayn’s office, she discovers a portal to the Fae Realm. Talia’s blood begins glowing gold, and she finds Zayn has a lot of explaining to do. Zayn needs Talia to accompany him on a mission to retrieve the rare delphinium flowers to counteract Sol’s control over the realm.
Rachel Rener uses Talia’s perspective to reveal her inner turmoil. It shows her lack of confidence and low self-esteem when Talia compares herself to others. Learning Zayn is an incubus, I could relate to Talia feeling that he had taken advantage of her. I found Biscuit’s antics humorous. He did aerial tricks for Talia in exchange for an almond. Each obstacle Talia has to overcome is written in exceptional detail. The story has multiple twists, which make it unpredictable. The suspense builds in intensity as Talia questions her feelings about her family’s heritage. Her Jewish mother’s constant phone calls with embarrassing questions made their dialogue realistic. The end was bittersweet, and I am eager to read the sequel. Inked is an urban fantasy romance where getting a tattoo may be more dangerous than you realize.
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