Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite

In The Black River Chronicles (Level One) by David Tallerman and Michael Wills, the Black River Academy of Swordcraft and Spellcraft is a go-to training centre for rangers, wizards, fighters and rogues. Its current newest group of students has been at the academy for three months and, as such, it is time to group them into parties of four - one from each craft - that would henceforth execute their quests together. Durren - a ranger with a big secret - is grouped with Tia - a rogue who thinks she is too good for the group, Arein - a wizard too emotional for her own good - and Hule - a fighter who acts before he thinks. Together they will be sent on various missions for the academy. After their embarrassingly disastrous first quest, the group is spared punishment only after a staff member desiring a challenge offers to take them on as their mentor. The group can barely stand each other, yet they must work together to prove they deserve the second chance they have been given. But when your tasks include capturing a wicked unicorn and stealing from a monastery filled with crazed priests, a lot can go wrong. Noticing something weird about their tasks, they decide to take on a side quest of their own and get to the bottom of it all.

The Black River Chronicles: Level One by David Tallerman and Michael Wills is a captivating YA adventure that combines an amazing setting, a fascinating cast of characters, and flawless narration to give you a thrilling reading experience. The descriptive narration is very vivid and draws you into this world of magic, adventure and action. The entire story could have been set within the boundaries of the academy and still be a winning setting, but then quests, each set in a unique and memorable location, added even more adventure and thrills. David Tallerman and Michael Wills produced one hell of an adventure - a must-read for all who enjoy thrilling, fast-paced YA adventures. The Black River Chronicles: Level One is a brilliant start to what will no doubt be an award winning series and I cannot wait to see what trouble the group gets into at the next level.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

The Yukon Quest is one of the toughest races on the planet. Mushing a sled with a dog team over the most unforgiving landscape between Yukon and Alaska, over mountainous terrain and in unthinkably cold and violent winter conditions, this is not a race for the faint of heart. Kyle Walker is a rookie musher, but his team of Carolina grays, a rare breed of dog from the lowlands of South Carolina, is a winning combination and Kyle knows it. With his lead dog, King, and a powerful bond between him and his dogs, this rookie is a good contender to challenge the reigning champion. But a sudden storm halts the race in its tracks and a heart-rending tale of a mother and two girls trapped in the storm gives Kyle and his team an even bigger challenge as he mushes out to rescue them. Life is more important than winning trophies.

Wesley Banks’ powerful novel, Faith in Every Footstep, challenges the notion of power, strength and the need to be the best, to be the winner. The main character, Kyle, is on a quest that is more life threatening than the endurance required for a famous dogsled race. His quest is one of self discovery, to find out who he is and why he’s risking his life in the frigid wilds of Yukon. It takes another Faith to set his path clear, to explain what he struggles to understand: it’s his fear. It’s not a fear of inadequacy, but rather a fear that he is more powerful than most people and that he doesn’t do anything with that power. As this Faith explains: “The way you stand among the dogs like a sunset hovering over the ocean, providing endless light and warmth. To sway the very soul of the dogs. That is your gift.” The powerful bond between a human and a dog is one that takes a lifetime to understand and a supreme storyteller to unravel. This story is a vibrant and exciting journey, following a quest more powerful than life itself.

Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite

It all began with what sounded like the ramblings of an inventive, 10-year-old girl. Colin knew his little sister always came up with the most weird stories, but even for her this was a little too creative. While the two were admiring the clouds, Addy commented, “That one is the hummingbird that dropped the coin.” Of course, Colin brushed it off as just another of her super imaginative moments. Little did he know that Addy's statement about the hummingbird and their missing family dog would be the beginning of a journey that would shake the very core of life as he knew it. Soon the two siblings find themselves at the center of a mystery involving legends, magic, a witch, a lonesome man in a castle, a fairy, an alternative world, and deep and powerful secrets. So how much trouble can two curious kids stuck in the middle of it all get into? You have no idea!

Every now and then you are fortunate enough to come across a story that speaks to you from the first page and you know right away that you are going to have an exciting ride all the way to the final page. The Gatekeeper's Forbidden Secret by Penelope A. Brown is one of those stories. Brilliant writing, memorable characters in every form and age, an enchanting setting, and just the right mix of magic and sci-fi - the perfect making of an adventure of a lifetime. The Gatekeeper's Forbidden Secret is a thrilling story that will give its readers, both young and old, an amazing and memorable ride across realms. Fans of fiction fantasy with a touch of science fiction are definitely going to love this one.

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

The Drummer’s Call by Patricia Leppo is an exploration into posterity. Josh is a California bred ninth grader, who loves video games and playing drums in his band. Recently, the loss of his father has rocked his world. Sandy, Josh’s mom, feels the burden of loneliness, grief and responsibility. Hoping the change of scenery will get them through the winter break, Sandy decides to take her kids, Evie and Josh, to visit her aunt and uncle in Tennessee. Josh is not thrilled about the idea. He would like nothing more than to have a break from his family. Upon their arrival at the Osprey Inn, all Josh sees is a run-down old building. He couldn't care less about the family history that ties him to this historical landmark. Trying to sleep, Josh is mysteriously stirred by the rat-a-tat rhythm of a drum. It is as if the drumming is calling to him. After a few days, boredom takes over and Josh begins to explore. With curiosity as his guide, Josh discovers the basement. Looking around, he notices an old drum hanging on the wall. Suddenly, the atmosphere of the forgotten room changes and Josh finds himself time warped into the Civil War era. Far away from his family, Josh is alone, “so many miles, so many years from home.” Or, maybe this is the journey of his lifetime, the pathway home. Stepping into history, Josh follows the beckoning sound of “The Drummer’s Call.”

Josh and his sidekick, Toby, are a delightful combination. They have a rare and unforgettable bond created through timeless escapades. They are much like Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, or Frodo and Sam, portraying the reality that boys will be boys, regardless of the era. The deprivation of the time and the fortitude to survive is visualized through the eyes of the young hero. The young protagonist, Josh, travels the path of his heritage; he literally descends into the world of his descendants. Josh experiences the overwhelming loss and hardship of a country divided by war. Hard work for the young and the old, issues of slavery, lack of sanitation and brother set against brother on the battlefield are revealed throughout the story.

Patricia Leppo pens a tale of adventure in The Drummer’s Call. In a story based on real life events, Leppo definitely did her homework. This fictional narrative is easy to read, making it a desirable book for her target audience. Yet, it is full of historical accuracy, taking the reader into the world of the Civil War, creating a story for all ages. Leppo depicts her time setting with sensory perception. The action flows, peaks, and ebbs smoothly. The denouement unfolds with sad and promising outcomes, giving way to a satisfying conclusion ... leaving the lasting reminder to be careful what you wish for because you never know where it will take you.

Reviewed by Maria Stoica for Readers' Favorite

Hugh the Southern Flame by R.J. Tolson is the second book in the young adult fantasy series, Chaos Chronicles. In the world of Evos, the Nios Crystal is said to be the most powerful weapon of all since it granted control over fear itself. Espers are people with supernatural powers who are ranked on five levels, based on their power and ability to control it. Burst City is the most technologically advanced settlement in this world and its prosperity is assured by the agents. These are highly powerful people who go on missions into the dangerous lands beyond the walls of Burst and who make sure their city stays on top of the others. Aodhfin, the most powerful of the Burst agents, managed to find the Nios Crystal, but lost it and he was banished for this terrible mistake.

Presently, Hugh, Aodhfin's seventeen-year-old son, an untrained, level one pyrokinesis Esper who discovered his abilities while being bullied at the orphanage, is sent into Burst City to study. Having lived all his life in his father’s shadow and been abused for his predecessor’s failures, Hugh is delighted to learn that he had been selected to enter the three phased trial of becoming an agent of Burst. But, the reputation of the trial is fierce, having claimed lives in the past. To free himself from his father’s mistakes and find friendship, Hugh is willing to risk everything.

The second book can be read without knowledge of the first volume; however, the latter’s readers will be delighted to see certain symbols and patterns repeat themselves as R.J. Tolson prepares the ground for the bigger picture - the four demigods chosen to stop Chaos. Hugh the Southern Flame is the tale of the second chosen one. Throughout the story, we follow Hugh’s point of view as he describes the places he visits, the wonders he witnesses, and gives rich details on his training and fighting. There isn’t any shocking violence, but there is a constant stress as the whole world seems to be against Hugh, and he struggles to find friends and the truth about himself and his father. Overall, I greatly enjoyed this novel from Chaos Chronicles and await its sequel. I would recommend it to readers who want a vivid taste of the warrior’s journey in conquering fear. It is an inner journey as much as it is an outer one.

Reviewed by Kristen Van Kampen for Readers' Favorite

A Stolen Kiss by Kelsey Keating is a thrilling, fantasy novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat with excitement. It follows a boy named Derric, whose mother cursed Princess Maria of Opea. He never expected to be near the royals again, but when Princess Maria finds that she can't say yes to the prince proposing to her, they call Derric for help. When finally they realize that Princess Maria is bound to Derric, Derric lies and says his name is Daniel, and together the two of them, along with Prince Humphrey and Derric's sister Sarah, head out on a quest to find Derric's mother, Gilda Harver. Together, the four of them face many dangers, including the Fangralee Forest and the Mortal Marsh. They face centaurs and hippogriffs, shape shifters and evil sorcerers. But will the curse be removed?

A Stolen Kiss by Kelsey Keating is amazing. It took my breath away. I was hooked from the first page and wasn't able to put it down. It has many funny parts that made me laugh out loud. A Stolen Kiss was well written and descriptive, with many plot twists that I never would have expected. The characters were likeable and well developed. The story takes you on an adventure that will thrill you. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic fantasy and adventure. I think that Burt (one of the mystical creatures they meet) was adorable.

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

Chess Desalls’ The Call to Search Everywhen series continues with its second installment, Insight Kindling. Calla Winston faces charges against her for changing the past. Her use of the Travel Glasses resulted in the creation of two writings that affected the lives of Edgar, the inventor of the Travel Glasses, and Valcas, their prior owner. Now Calla must explain her actions before the Time and Space Travel Agency. Unfortunately, the hearing does not end well. The agency finds her guilty and forces her to choose between two harsh penalties.

Insight Kindling introduces new characters as Calla teams up with a group of talented travelers to search for her father. Book Two answered most of the questions that readers might have from Book One, but new questions arise, adding more intrigue to the story. As I had already familiarized myself with the world building, the plot direction is easier to follow and gives more exciting twists. There’s not much chasing this time but more searching, as the plot takes a slightly different turn. One of the highlights of this book is when Calla discovers her own special travel talent, which may or may not be enough to protect herself while completing her mission.

Desalls maintains the excellent imaginative traits of the story. Calla still makes questionable decisions at times, but she is more mature and focuses more on important resolutions. All in all, fans of the series would be pleased to know that Book Two does not disappoint. This is another enjoyable read from Desalls.

Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

The empty feeling of not belonging to a group is timeless, as Orfeo demonstrates clearly in The Sword of Telemon: The Orfeo Saga Book 1 by Murray Lee Eiland, Jr. Born as the second son of King Kiros, Orfeo was sent to the foreign city of Pylos as a hostage when he was roughly 5 or 6 years old to guarantee peace for his nomadic tribe. While in Pylos, Orfeo studied alongside the prince with a renowned scholar and that knowledge would prove quite useful many years later. After escaping Pylos and returning to the hillsides and sheep of his Achian heritage, Orfeo is not accepted by the people who now view him suspiciously. When his older brother and heir to the king, Herron, is captured and feared enslaved by the Therans, Orfeo is among the group that will attempt a rescue. Instead of simply minding sheep, Orfeo is now responsible for learning to fight with a sword and use his cunning to face and survive many adventures. From an isolated teenage boy, Orfeo turns into a wise young man who uses his many talents to help his people defeat a tireless enemy. Will he learn enough to succeed?

The Sword of Telemon: The Orfeo Saga Book 1 by Murray Lee Eiland, Jr. provides an amazing look at ancient Greek life from roughly 1,600 years ago. Against this historic backdrop, the story of Orfeo is compelling. The characters come alive and the thoughtful emotion Eiland fills them with truly lets you feel as though you are toiling along with them. The action is intense and really gives you an idea about ancient beliefs, many of which are still with us today, such as loyalty, personal choice, responsibility, and duty to others. This book is amazing and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to read it. The strong characters and realistic emotions truly provide lessons about assuming responsibility and looking at the different aspects of every issue. The Sword of Telemon offers a great look at ancient history as well as the modern quest for a sense of purpose and belonging.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Orville Mouse and the Puzzle of the Clockwork Glowbirds: An Orville Wellington Mouse Adventure is a young adult adventure fantasy novel written by Tom Hoffman. Orville was enjoying one of his strangely realistic dreams when he suddenly woke up in his own bedroom. He had been wandering through the most wonderful grove of orange trees which gave off an intoxicatingly sweet scent and enjoying the summer heat, but, best of all, he had Sophia, his best friend, by his side. She drew his attention to a massive tree with perfectly circular, sky-blue leaves, and as they stood beneath it, Sophia suddenly conjured up a ripe and juicy orange. After the warmth of that dream world, the frigid air in his bedroom was even harder to adjust to, but he did have only one more day of school left. As he looked around, however, he was stunned to see that the orange had also somehow materialized in his room. And this wasn't the first time something from his dream had entered his waking world; there had been the glowbird feathers and the round, sky-blue leaves. Needing to convince himself of its reality, Orville peeled the orange and savored the sweet juice as he ate the segments. Yes, it could not be denied or thought a fiction if he was actually eating it. This was something he would definitely have to discuss with Sophia on their way to school.

Tom Hoffman's young adult coming of age fantasy, Orville Mouse and the Puzzle of the Clockwork Glowbirds: An Orville Wellington Mouse Adventure is magical, exciting, witty and wise. It has marvelous characters and a smashing plot, and the story ties in quite nicely with the author's Bartholomew the Adventurer trilogy. As I began reading this rather remarkable steampunk fantasy, I soon felt a magical glow overwhelming me and a most pleasant alteration of my mood. This book made me smile. Of course, there was danger to be realized and not a little suspense as I read of Orville and Sophia's encounters with some rather terrifying off-world creatures, but the sterling company I was privileged to be a part of made even the most gigantic centipede with gnashing teeth seem manageable somehow. I am a huge fan of Bartholomew the Adventurer and the other unforgettable personalities inhabiting Hoffman's first trilogy and was thrilled to discover that the Orville Wellington Mouse Adventures were set in much the same universe. Orville Wellington Mouse is a Metaphysical Adventurer Extraordinaire, and I'm anxiously awaiting news of his and Sophia's next adventure. Orville Mouse and the Puzzle of the Clockwork Glowbirds: An Orville Wellington Mouse Adventure is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

From the Shadows: The Complete Series is a young adult science fiction series written by KB Shaw. It contains two volumes: Separate Paths and Convergence. Cameron Rush and Rosa Costas are best friends and fellow geeks, but they've never really seen each other. He lives in Wisconsin and she's a cowgirl on a ranch in New Mexico. They've gotten to know each other through GundTech's multiCom technology, which comes equipped with AI personalities. Cameron's AI is named Sam, and he's got the program ready as Cameron rushes into his bedroom after school. He and Rosa have been waiting all day to hear GundTech's news conference, and they've arranged to listen to the announcement together. GundTech's spokesperson presents the results of some revolutionary strides the company's made in the field of quantum computing, and, even better, they're announcing the formation of the IHT International Academy, which will offer free tuition and is accepting applications effective immediately.

KB Shaw's young adult science fiction series, From the Shadows: The Complete Series, is filled with action, adventure and technology -- the perfect recipe for an enthralling and exciting read. Shaw's characters are well-defined and intriguing, especially the AI personalities who turned out to be quite a bit more individualized than I ever thought they could be. The Academy is a virtual one, and it makes for an interesting mix of home and regular school with the challenging and futuristic demands on the young tech wizard-trainees. Shaw has Easter eggs pop up in the plot and plants a few of his own in the storyline; including those found during a marvelous time travel adventure that Rosa designs to celebrate Cameron's birthday. Sometimes I could see a glimpse of Philip Pullman's classic fantasy series, His Dark Materials, in the AI companions each student has, as well as the more obvious ties to Rowling's magical rather than techie, Hogwarts, but From the Shadows is much more than a reflection of these influences. While the author may, purposely or inadvertently, cause readers to think of these authors when reading the book, the world presented in this story is in a class by itself, and its marvels would promise a fascinating future indeed. From the Shadows: The Complete Series is most highly recommended.