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Recommend this book:
The Reset
Time Corrector Series Book 3
Avi Datta
2024 Finalist
529 Pages
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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
710 Pages
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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
476 Pages
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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
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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.
Recommend this book:
SoulBreather
Book One of the Paranormal Fantasy SoulMist Series
Helen Garraway
2023 Finalist
342 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
SoulBreather, the first in the SoulMist series by Helen Garraway, is the best sci-fi romance I've read in a very long time. It follows Mav, beaten and confused, as he tries to learn how he ended up in Eidolon without a soul. In Eidolon, Mav will discover who exploits the people and find out how children he found there were cast out, betrayed, and abused. But how will Mav, a fallen angel, be able to protect these children when hunted by one of his kind? Solanji is a soulsinger, a rare human who can touch and take souls and more. A seraphim forces Solanji to perform a risky task in exchange for releasing her brother imprisoned for stealing. Will Solanji succeed, and if so, at what cost?
SoulBreather by Helen Garraway is moving and gripping, with a perfect plot boasting the most incredible, cleverly crafted protagonists I've enjoyed in recent literature. It's a wonderful, utterly addictive series launch filled with detailed worldbuilding, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue and adventure. I especially loved the romantic chemistry between Mav and Solanji and their determination for justice and to save others. I nearly devoured this brilliant tale in one sitting. Garraway's narrative is highly immersive and action-packed. I would recommend SoulBreather to all fans of paranormal fantasy and anyone who loves stories with heart, adventure, feisty heroines, and fallen angels.
SoulBreather, the first in the SoulMist series by Helen Garraway, is the best sci-fi romance I've read in a very long time. It follows Mav, beaten and confused, as he tries to learn how he ended up in Eidolon without a soul. In Eidolon, Mav will discover who exploits the people and find out how children he found there were cast out, betrayed, and abused. But how will Mav, a fallen angel, be able to protect these children when hunted by one of his kind? Solanji is a soulsinger, a rare human who can touch and take souls and more. A seraphim forces Solanji to perform a risky task in exchange for releasing her brother imprisoned for stealing. Will Solanji succeed, and if so, at what cost?
SoulBreather by Helen Garraway is moving and gripping, with a perfect plot boasting the most incredible, cleverly crafted protagonists I've enjoyed in recent literature. It's a wonderful, utterly addictive series launch filled with detailed worldbuilding, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue and adventure. I especially loved the romantic chemistry between Mav and Solanji and their determination for justice and to save others. I nearly devoured this brilliant tale in one sitting. Garraway's narrative is highly immersive and action-packed. I would recommend SoulBreather to all fans of paranormal fantasy and anyone who loves stories with heart, adventure, feisty heroines, and fallen angels.
Recommend this book:
Mantle of the World Ruler
Book Two of the Lost Wells Trilogy
Kate Gateley
2023 Honorable Mention
648 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Mantle of the World Ruler is the second installment in the Lost Wells Trilogy by Kate Gateley. The trials and tribulations of Julia Harrison continue as she and Dom O’Brian try to recuperate after the onslaught of danger by Marcus Cassius Longinus. However, things slowly get better as Julia tries to control her Bearing magic and lay low in LA for the time being. Julia works hard to unlock her potential and the full extent of her powers, but it cannot come quickly enough. Cassius is hot on their heels and is ready to do whatever it takes to remove Julia from the equation. As Julia tries to master her power, she begins to sense a dark and dangerous Bearing magic wielder who could be far more lethal than Cassius. But Julia and her friends cannot ignore Cassius for long as he drums up something dangerous that can end magic users once and for all. They have their hands full, but can they stop him before it is too late?
I love it when the second novel in the series is far superior to the first one. This is a massive compliment because Ties of the Sovereign is one of my all-time favorite reads. Fantasy stories can be redundant and overdone, but not when Kate Gateley writes them. She works magic to build the most realistic yet fantastic world you can imagine yourself in. Julia’s world is something like that. The mystery oozes out of the pages as Gateley takes us through the motions and gives us a first-hand look inside her characters' minds. The narrative style is fantastic, and the pace complements Julia’s development through and through. While Julia isn’t so sure about her powers, Dom believes her irrevocably. He follows her lead wholeheartedly while providing her with the best support possible. Mantle of the World Ruler is a novel for adults, thanks to the passionate relationship between the protagonists and the constant action that demands our attention. I don't want to give away much, but I love the plot's complexity! I cannot praise this installment enough.
Mantle of the World Ruler is the second installment in the Lost Wells Trilogy by Kate Gateley. The trials and tribulations of Julia Harrison continue as she and Dom O’Brian try to recuperate after the onslaught of danger by Marcus Cassius Longinus. However, things slowly get better as Julia tries to control her Bearing magic and lay low in LA for the time being. Julia works hard to unlock her potential and the full extent of her powers, but it cannot come quickly enough. Cassius is hot on their heels and is ready to do whatever it takes to remove Julia from the equation. As Julia tries to master her power, she begins to sense a dark and dangerous Bearing magic wielder who could be far more lethal than Cassius. But Julia and her friends cannot ignore Cassius for long as he drums up something dangerous that can end magic users once and for all. They have their hands full, but can they stop him before it is too late?
I love it when the second novel in the series is far superior to the first one. This is a massive compliment because Ties of the Sovereign is one of my all-time favorite reads. Fantasy stories can be redundant and overdone, but not when Kate Gateley writes them. She works magic to build the most realistic yet fantastic world you can imagine yourself in. Julia’s world is something like that. The mystery oozes out of the pages as Gateley takes us through the motions and gives us a first-hand look inside her characters' minds. The narrative style is fantastic, and the pace complements Julia’s development through and through. While Julia isn’t so sure about her powers, Dom believes her irrevocably. He follows her lead wholeheartedly while providing her with the best support possible. Mantle of the World Ruler is a novel for adults, thanks to the passionate relationship between the protagonists and the constant action that demands our attention. I don't want to give away much, but I love the plot's complexity! I cannot praise this installment enough.
Recommend this book:
Proud Pada
The Last Lumenian Book 3
S.G. Blaise
2023 Bronze Medal
250 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Proud Pada is the third book of The Last Lumenian series by S.G. Blaise. After invoking the Bride's Choice on Callum, Sybil Lilla's perfect wedding day turns upside down when Callum's older brother Sachary is found murdered. Callum's father, Caderyn, ruler of the Teryn Praelium, reluctantly takes Lilla, Callum, and their friends to the monastic Pada world in search of the killer, following the traces of Acerbus-infused technology. However, upon their arrival, they soon discover a brewing animosity between the Tier One factions that could spell danger. When Caderyn goes missing, Lilla is left with no choice but to take it upon herself to identify the culprits and bring them to justice before the entire Praelium descends into civil war. But with multiple factions as suspects, will Lilla be able to stop the one pulling the strings?
Proud Pada is a seamless blend of high fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery. Author S.G. Blaise takes little time in getting things moving and puts the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go. There are several surprising turns of events in the plot to immerse readers in the pages, and you will find yourself hard-pressed to put the book down before finishing it. Lilla has a diverse circle of friends, and their banter and quick back-and-forth add a sprinkling of humor to the narrative. Lilla is immensely likable as the main protagonist, which makes her relatable to readers. All in all, a stellar entry into an epic fantasy saga that I will recommend to all fantasy lovers.
Proud Pada is the third book of The Last Lumenian series by S.G. Blaise. After invoking the Bride's Choice on Callum, Sybil Lilla's perfect wedding day turns upside down when Callum's older brother Sachary is found murdered. Callum's father, Caderyn, ruler of the Teryn Praelium, reluctantly takes Lilla, Callum, and their friends to the monastic Pada world in search of the killer, following the traces of Acerbus-infused technology. However, upon their arrival, they soon discover a brewing animosity between the Tier One factions that could spell danger. When Caderyn goes missing, Lilla is left with no choice but to take it upon herself to identify the culprits and bring them to justice before the entire Praelium descends into civil war. But with multiple factions as suspects, will Lilla be able to stop the one pulling the strings?
Proud Pada is a seamless blend of high fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery. Author S.G. Blaise takes little time in getting things moving and puts the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go. There are several surprising turns of events in the plot to immerse readers in the pages, and you will find yourself hard-pressed to put the book down before finishing it. Lilla has a diverse circle of friends, and their banter and quick back-and-forth add a sprinkling of humor to the narrative. Lilla is immensely likable as the main protagonist, which makes her relatable to readers. All in all, a stellar entry into an epic fantasy saga that I will recommend to all fantasy lovers.
Recommend this book:
The Edge of Life
Love and Survival During the Apocalypse
Lena Gibson
2023 Silver Medal
299 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Lena Gibson’s The Edge of Life: Love and Survival in the Apocalypse features Kat and Ryan. Kat is a schoolteacher who lost her husband two years previously. Every weekend, she drank away her pain. Her best friend Nick suggested that she go hiking with him, his partner, and his friend Ryan. Kat agrees. After several successful hiking trips, Nick tells Ryan and Kat to go hiking together while he goes on a trip for work. After two weeks, Ryan and Kat received a message from Nick telling them to go on vacation. Knowing this was a warning, they prepared for a long trip. The day before they were to leave, the media released a warning of the imminent impact of an asteroid. Kat and Ryan’s trip to South Dakota has now become a fight for survival.
Lena Gibson depicts the realistic struggles Kat and Ryan faced. The mass hysteria after the media release was easy to envision. Kat and Ryan were fortunate to get their supplies early. However, this quickly falls apart when the broken pieces of the asteroid impact all over the world. The after-effects are devastating, and violent gangs, volcanic ash, and impassable roads are just some of the problems they have to navigate. I liked the updates from Nick’s study of the asteroid. They added an ominous tone at the beginning of the story. It described every moment in vivid detail, which captivated me. The transitions between Kat and Ryan were seamless. I found the approach to a worldwide disaster unusual. A disaster rarely occurs without the main characters’ plans getting them to safety. Readers who enjoy original dystopian stories with a growing romance will enjoy The Edge of Life.
Lena Gibson’s The Edge of Life: Love and Survival in the Apocalypse features Kat and Ryan. Kat is a schoolteacher who lost her husband two years previously. Every weekend, she drank away her pain. Her best friend Nick suggested that she go hiking with him, his partner, and his friend Ryan. Kat agrees. After several successful hiking trips, Nick tells Ryan and Kat to go hiking together while he goes on a trip for work. After two weeks, Ryan and Kat received a message from Nick telling them to go on vacation. Knowing this was a warning, they prepared for a long trip. The day before they were to leave, the media released a warning of the imminent impact of an asteroid. Kat and Ryan’s trip to South Dakota has now become a fight for survival.
Lena Gibson depicts the realistic struggles Kat and Ryan faced. The mass hysteria after the media release was easy to envision. Kat and Ryan were fortunate to get their supplies early. However, this quickly falls apart when the broken pieces of the asteroid impact all over the world. The after-effects are devastating, and violent gangs, volcanic ash, and impassable roads are just some of the problems they have to navigate. I liked the updates from Nick’s study of the asteroid. They added an ominous tone at the beginning of the story. It described every moment in vivid detail, which captivated me. The transitions between Kat and Ryan were seamless. I found the approach to a worldwide disaster unusual. A disaster rarely occurs without the main characters’ plans getting them to safety. Readers who enjoy original dystopian stories with a growing romance will enjoy The Edge of Life.
Recommend this book:
Flames of Lethe
Lethe Chronicles I
Lexie Talionis
2023 Gold Medal
386 Pages
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Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Lexie Talionis’s Flames of Lethe is the first book in the Lethe Chronicles. Josephine and Christopher awaken without knowing where they are. Both lacked clothing and didn’t remember anything but felt they knew each other. Deciding they needed to look for water, Christopher leads Josephine across the glowing sand. Josephine realizes she isn’t thirsty, hungry, or tired after they traveled for several hours. She attempts to engage Christopher in conversation but his hostile reaction shuts her down. When the sun comes up, Josephine feels like she is on fire. Weeks later, they enter a dark area and find a gate. When the sun comes up, Josephine finds Christopher is unable to move and she burns her hand trying to drag him into the shade. The pair are allowed past the gate by guards. Separated, both learn that society is nothing like they expected.
LexieTalionis's creation is dystopian in nature. Josephine appears meek and easily upset in the beginning. Christopher’s hostility to her made me wonder what their relationship with each other was prior to being stranded in a glowing desert. Before arriving at the gate, I began to empathize with Christopher as he showed his personality was much softer toward Josephine. I understood why he tried to seem tough to prevent Josephine from becoming hysterical. The city they entered was hostile toward women. Adam’s appearance caused an unpredictable turn in the story. He knew something about Christopher and Josephine. The narration is through Josephine’s perspective until the end, where Adam's and Christopher’s views are briefly given. I hoped Christopher and Josephine would overcome the harshness of the city somehow. The conclusion shocked me completely. I recommend Flames of Lethe to dark romance fantasy lovers who enjoy intricate plot twists.
Lexie Talionis’s Flames of Lethe is the first book in the Lethe Chronicles. Josephine and Christopher awaken without knowing where they are. Both lacked clothing and didn’t remember anything but felt they knew each other. Deciding they needed to look for water, Christopher leads Josephine across the glowing sand. Josephine realizes she isn’t thirsty, hungry, or tired after they traveled for several hours. She attempts to engage Christopher in conversation but his hostile reaction shuts her down. When the sun comes up, Josephine feels like she is on fire. Weeks later, they enter a dark area and find a gate. When the sun comes up, Josephine finds Christopher is unable to move and she burns her hand trying to drag him into the shade. The pair are allowed past the gate by guards. Separated, both learn that society is nothing like they expected.
LexieTalionis's creation is dystopian in nature. Josephine appears meek and easily upset in the beginning. Christopher’s hostility to her made me wonder what their relationship with each other was prior to being stranded in a glowing desert. Before arriving at the gate, I began to empathize with Christopher as he showed his personality was much softer toward Josephine. I understood why he tried to seem tough to prevent Josephine from becoming hysterical. The city they entered was hostile toward women. Adam’s appearance caused an unpredictable turn in the story. He knew something about Christopher and Josephine. The narration is through Josephine’s perspective until the end, where Adam's and Christopher’s views are briefly given. I hoped Christopher and Josephine would overcome the harshness of the city somehow. The conclusion shocked me completely. I recommend Flames of Lethe to dark romance fantasy lovers who enjoy intricate plot twists.
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