Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite

Kika Emers brings us brilliant fantasy in the first volume of The Wanshiqi Trilogy: Remember Pompeii. Kali Brewster is about to turn 17, again. For over 200 lifetimes, she has found a way to die just before her birthday. Her tonggan, Hunter, is her soulmate and has been helping her with this specific task every time. Kali has been forced to reincarnate into different human forms for what she did in Pompeii. It’s her punishment as a Wanshiqi. Her parents and grandparents endure this punishment with her. All she has to do is reach 17 and go through qifa for her sentence to end and for every one of them to return to the Wanshiqi realm. Kali has her reasons for not wanting to go through qifa. But what if this time there is a reason to live?

Author Kika Emers has created a world steeped in Mandarin Chinese lore. With a descriptive glossary and pronunciation guide at the end, Wanshiqi is brought to life for readers and is easily understandable. Full of brilliant characters with loads of personality, there are a few who will become favorites. Stimulating the senses on all levels is noticeable and makes it that much easier to submerge oneself into this book. Written in the first-person narrative from the perspective of the main character, Kali, makes this story more personal. Chapters are a manageable length that makes for easy reading. You won’t want to put Remember Pompeii down as the plot keeps you hooked. Suitable for young adults and fans of fantasy, Remember Pompeii is a must-read! I look forward to the next book.

Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite

Evie is twenty-three and lives in Colorado, while Sam is seventeen and lives in South Dakota. Evie was given up for adoption, and Sam's mother died in a tragic car accident. Despite these differences, they share similar attributes and bear a striking resemblance to each other. Through divine providence, Sam's boyfriend, Tobias, encounters Evie during a service call with his uncle. Despite differences in their hairstyles, Tobias is amazed by their resemblance and promptly informs Sam. As Sam and Tobias plan a visit, it becomes clear that Evie is hesitant to confront the emotional pain such a reunion might bring, as there are many uncertainties to consider. Discover whether Evie and Sam are doppelgängers or long-lost sisters in Tara J. Stone’s 680 Miles Away.

Tara J. Stone’s 680 Miles Away is a captivating work of Christian fiction. This reality-based story is suitable for young adults, but its appeal is not limited to one age group. The intriguing plot immediately captivates the reader's attention. Its romantic elements intersect with themes of family, love, faith, and hope. Believable dialogue makes the characters highly relatable. Thus, it is easy to become invested in their lives. The lessons in the story have a positive impact on the reader's values and mindset. One of the most memorable and valuable messages can be paraphrased as follows: "Always assume your loved one’s best intentions." Several quotes are interspersed throughout, and the end thoughtfully includes a song list and Author’s Notes. Fans of wholesome romance and spiritual topics will love 680 Miles Away.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Searching for Zen: A Tale of Divine Destiny is a work of fiction in the fantasy, adventure, and interpersonal drama genres. Penned by author Albert T Franklin, the plot follows a humble boy given a divine destiny, thrusting him into a journey of self-discovery and perilous adventure in a world where Earth intertwines with realms of fantasy and science fiction. From humble beginnings, our hero embarks upon a life-changing journey, struggling to understand his purpose amidst doubt and loneliness. However, as Zen comes of age, he finds strength within himself, builds a family from strangers, and discovers love, all while facing trials that amplify as his power increases. Through his quest, Zen learns that true power lies not in his abilities alone, but in the bonds of love, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Author Albert T Franklin has crafted an immersive and transformative story, transporting audiences into a richly imagined world where fantasy and reality merge with great balance and conviction. The narrative flow brings Zen's journey to life, evoking a wide range of emotions as we follow him through triumphs and tribulations, sitting right on his shoulder to feel every second of emotion. The themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the power of love are gently inserted early on, building gradually into a tale that strongly reminds us all of the importance of inner strength and human connection in overcoming life's challenges. This beautiful message is carried into the atmosphere and mood of the settings and action sequences too with complementary descriptions to match the emotional tone. As Zen grappled with his divine destiny and the sacrifices it demanded, I found myself rooting for him more and more and feeling inspired by his resilience and determination. Overall, Searching for Zen is a captivating fantasy novel that I would not hesitate to recommend.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

The Story of Briar: Coming of Age in Rural East Texas by Ian Griffin is a heart-warming look at a struggling family in the first half of the twentieth century. When Russell and his fiancee, Cheyenne return to East Texas to attend his grandfather Roy’s funeral, they listen attentively as their grandmother, Joy, known to all as Briar, begins to relate the amazing story of their younger lives growing up in this rural backwater. Joy had got her nickname, Briar, from her father, when she was just a little girl. A true tomboy, Briar was quick to anger and would fight anyone, girl or boy, who threatened her or made fun of her family’s situation. Through the lows of the Great Depression, a world war, and the highs of meeting and falling in love with the man of her dreams, Briar kept her outlook positive and built a life to be proud of. However, Russell will also discover many family secrets and have many of his questions answered by his grandmother’s revelations.

The Story of Briar is one of family, love, and the indomitable spirit of one young girl, with a little bit of mysticism and magic thrown in for good measure. Author Ian Griffin has done an incredible job of illuminating readers not only with a wonderful familial story but also giving readers an insight into life on the margins of rural East Texas. I loved the young Briar, her spirit, her feistiness, and her unwillingness to back down to anyone regardless of their age and size. Her maturity when forced to take over as the “Ma” of the family at such an early age was a testament to her true character and poise. I also greatly enjoyed the gentle introduction of magical happenings related to the stream that ran through the family’s property. No matter what happened to Briar and those she loved, she would always fight back with the courage and strength of a mother bear protecting her cubs. This is a wonderful social history of a period and a place that perhaps sadly has long disappeared from our landscape. This is a thoughtful recounting that wraps readers in a warm blanket and will leave them sighing with contentment. A wonderfully relaxing and refreshing read amidst the chaos and tension of everyday life. I can highly recommend this book for a break from the trials of the day.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Colors of Truth is a work of fiction in the coming-of-age, interpersonal drama, and recent history genres. Penned by author Paula Paul, the tale follows Caroline and Pearlie, two teenage girls in 1950s Texas. Despite living in the same town, their lives differ greatly: Caroline is a white farm girl, while Pearlie is a black girl who, along with her family, works on Caroline’s family farm during the summer. They ride the same bus to separate schools. Through the alternating narratives of this deeply moving and thought-provoking read, the plot reveals how their lives become intertwined during a pivotal summer, culminating in a murder that impacts both girls deeply.

The alternating voices of Caroline and Pearlie provide a profound insight into their contrasting yet interconnected lives, and these voices are confidently crafted with deep emotional ties and brilliant thought presentation. Caroline's perspective highlighted the privileges and struggles of a white farming family, while Pearlie's narrative vividly portrayed the harsh realities of racial segregation and labor in the 1950s, and both sides were developed with respect and understanding. The murder mystery element added a great sense of suspense and urgency once the plot got rolling, but more importantly, it served as a catalyst for examining deeper social issues, and this always stayed central to the story and deeply relevant in everything that played out. The repercussions of the murder on both girls' lives poignantly illustrated the pervasive impact of racism and inequality with a fascinating and realistic look at the complexities of friendship and justice in a segregated society. Overall, Colors of Truth by author Paula Paul is an accomplished and unforgettable read that I would not hesitate to recommend.

Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite

Kerry Chaput's novel Chasing Eleanor focuses on Magnolia Parker and her struggle during the Great Depression. Magnolia's father abandoned the family, and her mother lapsed into depression, refusing to get out of bed. Magnolia did her best to provide for her two younger brothers, despite her mother's insistence that she would fail. When her mother died, Magnolia searched for a job. Mrs. Baxter offered to help her find employment and she became a housekeeper at the Pilot Butte Inn. Eleanor Roosevelt stopped at the inn, and Magnolia spoke to her. That evening Magnolia searched for her brothers and found them as a lightning storm started a forest fire. The following morning, Magnolia took her brothers to work with her. The inn fired her and once again she appealed to Mrs. Baxter for help. Mrs. Baxter assisted them but was unable to keep the family together. Upset, Magnolia sets out to find her brothers and Eleanor.

Chasing Eleanor is about a damaged heart. Magnolia's feeling of self-worth was so broken that her inability to trust others was a reflection of her state of mind. Her need to be in charge was to her detriment. When she asked for help, it didn't always come in a form that allowed her to control the situation. It also didn't occur to her that perhaps her brothers needed more than she could provide for them. Her father's abandonment and her mother's inability to show love crippled the entire family. I felt a ray of hope during Magnolia’s journey to reconnect with Eleanor Roosevelt. The supporting characters were vividly described and provided important encouragement to help Magnolia process her pain. I recommend Chasing Eleanor to readers who enjoy books that show progress in overcoming poverty and dire situations set during the Great Depression.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Shadow Runner by K.J. Fieler is a coming-of-age adventure story about Ada, a young girl taken from her affluent life and turned into an assassin. Ada is just ten years old when she is snatched away from her dysfunctional yet rich family by Nadine, a mistress with big aspirations for Ada. She teaches Ada how to steal and fight without getting caught, and Ada keeps these lessons close to her heart. Blood, hunger, and fighting become a regular part of Ada’s life. As a pawn in a dark and twisted organization for which she is just another fighting body, Ada learns to adapt. However, the real trouble begins when she comes of age and wants more for her life. Instead of the blood and the predatory behavior that is ingrained in her young mind, Ada wants something else. She can escape at the cost of the two people who mean the world to her. Will Ada be able to leave the shadows behind?

Gripping and gritty, Shadow Runner had my attention from the get-go. Set in 19th-century society but with a twist, the story opens with plenty of drama that made me sympathize with Ada. Losing her mother unsettled the family dynamic. Her father isn’t very attentive, and Ada wants that desperately. Even though Nadine mysteriously kidnaps her, she gets the attention and the purpose she desires. It is surprising, but she thrives in the dark and dingy atmosphere where she has to fight for everything so readily available to her before she was kidnapped. The story is sometimes dark and gruesome, but it is perfect nonetheless. K. J. Fieler ensures we are immersed in the action and drama from the very beginning. I enjoyed the intensity of the pace and how well it is crafted around Ada. Her growth directly impacts the story and made it better!

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Freeze Frame is a young adult coming-of-age novel by Tyler Beauchamp. Sixteen-year-old Will Horner is ready for a fresh start as a new student at Pinehurst Arts School. Plagued by visions and memories of his past, Will is eager to leave it all behind and pursue his dream of being a filmmaker. However, his father is firmly against any filmmaking endeavor, which he believes triggers Will's episodes. Soon, Will finds himself in the company of a talented group of individuals, each pursuing their medium of artistic expression. Will and his friends begin working on a short film project to win the prestigious PACA award, only to find themselves at a direct crossroads with famous YouTuber Rodrigo Silva and his Content Crew. Can Will and his friends make their movie? How will it be received?

Author Tyler Beauchamp sheds light on serious mental health issues with this poignant coming-of-age tale bound to tug at your heartstrings. Freeze Frame is about overcoming the odds to pursue one's dreams. Beauchamp's novel paints a moving portrait of teenage friendships, romance, and rivalry. The narrative has a nice flow and is complemented by a story filled with heart, humor, and drama. But it was the characters who stole the show. Beauchamp has crafted some believably nuanced characters who feel like actual teenagers. The way Will and his friends act and talk feels authentic, and the issues they face are the same real-life ones teenagers deal with. I thoroughly enjoyed Freeze Frame and highly recommend it to readers who love coming-of-age stories featuring compelling characters.

Reviewed by Carmen Tenorio for Readers' Favorite

On the Waterfront by Mike McCoy is the coming-of-age story of thirteen-year-old Danny Novak, a child of divorced parents in the early 70s who was eager to get away from his unhappy family by getting a job as a summer camp staffer. He first saw it as a welcome adventure and a good source of income before being awakened by the reality of hard kitchen labor and fitting into a dreadful place littered with bullies and weirdos. On the other hand, Danny did acquire some skills and did a lot of useful, amusing, and even forbidden stuff in camp. Most of all, he valued the chance to work on the waterfront, where things were more intriguing. Before being awarded the mile swim badge, Danny had to train under the meanest but most misunderstood boy who worked on the waterfront, Mark Colby. He was tough on Danny at first, but as they continued to deal with the mishaps, difficult situations, and the people at Camp Baker, Mark proved to be a trustworthy friend. Their common quest and struggles brought them closer and made them share the belief that a life of suffering can lead to a meaningful life. Years later, Danny would realize that what ultimately helped him mature in confidence, strength, and perspective was brought about by the imperfections, sufferings, devastation, and loss he had during that unforgettable 1972 summer. It was a pivotal time that made him see that learning and growing continue for our entire lives.

On the Waterfront is a semi-autobiographical short novel by Mike McCoy, with some people and circumstances being based on real-life experiences he had as a Scout in Camp Baker. Written from the first person point of view, the author has exploited this so the reader can easily step inside Danny Novak's thoughts and feel his emotions. It can be both comedic and heartbreaking to share the experiences of a young man who tries to grow up on his own. The author has a conversational and engaging style that uses a lot of teen slang at times and descriptive figures of speech on occasion. It has a deeply personal tone, easy pacing, and good character development that shape the narrative. The book's 70s pop culture references and activities are filled with nostalgia. If you are open-minded about what is sometimes regarded as the appalling immaturity of a teenage mind and are generally a fan of the coming-of-age genre, this book is for you. It's a sentimental, sometimes funny, poignant, and bittersweet short novel, which makes it an entertaining and even memorable read.

Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite

The Queering: The Life and Death of Brooke Skipstone by Brooke Skipstone, is a lesbian romance novel written for young adults. Trapped in a loveless marriage, Taylor MacKenzie is a seventy-year-old grandmother, teacher, and writer who lives in Clear, Alaska. A closet lesbian, she finds happiness by writing lesbian and gay romance novels using Brooke Skipstone as a pen name. The name belongs to her late lover and best friend in college. Eager to reveal herself now as a writer of these novels and hoping for acceptance, she writes her autobiography focusing on her time with Brooke. Her husband Marshall accuses her of promoting a perverse lifestyle, and Levi, a local homophobic podcaster, exposes her identity to their conservative community. Her past also catches up with her as her homicidal brother, who just got out of prison, tries to locate her. Can she finally find the freedom and acceptance denied to her for such a long time?

Brooke Skipstone’s The Queering is a passionate romance novel with a strong gay theme. The author weaves together an intricate tapestry with several compelling characters forced to hide their true sexuality. This narrative has many unexpected twists and turns that will ensure the reader’s undivided attention. It’s an inspiring and unique story that pays tribute to gay love. When Taylor MacKenzie decided to write her autobiography, she was also trying to override the prejudices of society and that was a difficult and dangerous task. There is tension from the novel’s first page, and it’s palpable up to the end. With engaging dialogue and vivid literary style, it’s easy to be caught up in the lives of the characters. This emotive story about identity, friendship, and genuine love is beautifully written.