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Recommend this book:
Savant
Book 1 of The Stream and the Void
Jason Aaron Cameron
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Savant: Book 1 of The Stream and the Void by Jason Aaron Cameron is a sweeping epic fantasy where we find ourselves with Talia, Sai, and Yang. These are three friends whose lives are torn apart by the forces of the Void. After Talia unknowingly taps into the Stream, her immense powers make her a target of the Void’s minions. Forced to flee, she struggles to control her abilities while evading relentless pursuers. Sai, seeking freedom from imprisonment, is drawn into the cutthroat world of aristocracy, while Yang’s quest to retrieve Sai’s heirloom ring takes him on a perilous journey, risking exposure to the Void itself. As their fates intertwine, the trio must navigate shifting alliances and face impossible choices in this richly imagined adventure.
Author Jason Aaron Cameron has a keen attention to detail that is present from the very first moment you start this novel. The intricate world-building grows with every chapter to bring the Stream and the Void to life with mesmerizing lore, settings, and people. I really liked the way the historical context of the land was embedded into the characters' attitudes and everyday speech. Elements like this and the complexity of the magic system bring originality to the fantasy landscape from an author who has thought about every angle of his world. There's a clear passion and enthusiasm for making lovable characters, too. Talia, Sai, and Yang have individual journeys that are compelling and emotionally resonant, but their interactions together and the way fate brings them in offers the biggest emotional payoff. Overall, for a read with a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and high stakes, I would highly recommend Savant, and I can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Savant: Book 1 of The Stream and the Void by Jason Aaron Cameron is a sweeping epic fantasy where we find ourselves with Talia, Sai, and Yang. These are three friends whose lives are torn apart by the forces of the Void. After Talia unknowingly taps into the Stream, her immense powers make her a target of the Void’s minions. Forced to flee, she struggles to control her abilities while evading relentless pursuers. Sai, seeking freedom from imprisonment, is drawn into the cutthroat world of aristocracy, while Yang’s quest to retrieve Sai’s heirloom ring takes him on a perilous journey, risking exposure to the Void itself. As their fates intertwine, the trio must navigate shifting alliances and face impossible choices in this richly imagined adventure.
Author Jason Aaron Cameron has a keen attention to detail that is present from the very first moment you start this novel. The intricate world-building grows with every chapter to bring the Stream and the Void to life with mesmerizing lore, settings, and people. I really liked the way the historical context of the land was embedded into the characters' attitudes and everyday speech. Elements like this and the complexity of the magic system bring originality to the fantasy landscape from an author who has thought about every angle of his world. There's a clear passion and enthusiasm for making lovable characters, too. Talia, Sai, and Yang have individual journeys that are compelling and emotionally resonant, but their interactions together and the way fate brings them in offers the biggest emotional payoff. Overall, for a read with a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and high stakes, I would highly recommend Savant, and I can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Recommend this book:
The Pandora's Box
Conjurer's Prophecy
L.S. Franco
2025 Honorable Mention
272 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
Recommend this book:
Half-Truths
Carol Baldwin
2025 Bronze Medal
314 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin introduces Katie, a fifteen-year-old girl in 1950s Tabor City, North Carolina, whose aspirations for college and a career in journalism clash with the ingrained racial prejudices of her community and family. Witnessing racial injustice at her father's store and the terrifying arrival of the KKK fuels her ambition. Inspired by local editor Mr. Horace Carter, Katie bravely writes an opinion piece questioning the Klan, sparking disapproval from family and friends. She seeks a different future and moves to Charlotte to live with her estranged grandparents, hoping for college support. She faces her grandmother's expectations and forms a complex bond with Lillian, a Black maid. A shared family secret, revealed through old china and a hidden compartment, links their histories. Amidst Charlotte's racial tensions, Katie's friendship with Lillian propels her quest for truth and self-discovery in a divided world.
Carol Baldwin’s characters are vividly drawn, from Katie's earnest desire for a different future and her internal conflict between loyalty and conviction to her father's quiet decency, her grandfather's overt racism, and her grandmother’s demanding expectations. Lillian is a compelling, intelligent, ambitious character navigating the limitations placed upon her by race and class. The setting of 1950s North Carolina is cleverly portrayed, and readers will notice the stark contrast between rural life and urban sophistication, and the ever-present shadow of racial segregation and the Klan. The central conflict is multifaceted: Katie's struggle for independence and education, the conflict of racial inequality, the fight for civil rights, and the hidden family secrets that intertwine. The first-person narrative voice gives the story an intimate tone, connecting the reader emotionally with the narrator. The themes of truth, prejudice, identity, and the power of words are explored through Katie's experiences and nascent journalism. Half-Truths is unique and original, and the skillful plotting and deft characterization give the book literary merit.
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin introduces Katie, a fifteen-year-old girl in 1950s Tabor City, North Carolina, whose aspirations for college and a career in journalism clash with the ingrained racial prejudices of her community and family. Witnessing racial injustice at her father's store and the terrifying arrival of the KKK fuels her ambition. Inspired by local editor Mr. Horace Carter, Katie bravely writes an opinion piece questioning the Klan, sparking disapproval from family and friends. She seeks a different future and moves to Charlotte to live with her estranged grandparents, hoping for college support. She faces her grandmother's expectations and forms a complex bond with Lillian, a Black maid. A shared family secret, revealed through old china and a hidden compartment, links their histories. Amidst Charlotte's racial tensions, Katie's friendship with Lillian propels her quest for truth and self-discovery in a divided world.
Carol Baldwin’s characters are vividly drawn, from Katie's earnest desire for a different future and her internal conflict between loyalty and conviction to her father's quiet decency, her grandfather's overt racism, and her grandmother’s demanding expectations. Lillian is a compelling, intelligent, ambitious character navigating the limitations placed upon her by race and class. The setting of 1950s North Carolina is cleverly portrayed, and readers will notice the stark contrast between rural life and urban sophistication, and the ever-present shadow of racial segregation and the Klan. The central conflict is multifaceted: Katie's struggle for independence and education, the conflict of racial inequality, the fight for civil rights, and the hidden family secrets that intertwine. The first-person narrative voice gives the story an intimate tone, connecting the reader emotionally with the narrator. The themes of truth, prejudice, identity, and the power of words are explored through Katie's experiences and nascent journalism. Half-Truths is unique and original, and the skillful plotting and deft characterization give the book literary merit.
Recommend this book:
Whispers in the Forest
The Unforgettable Tales of Adeline Bigsby
Elizabeth Mowery
2025 Bronze Medal
248 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/everything-that-was&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51OWEciK38L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Everything That Was by K.R. Hansen delves deep into the layers of grief, memory, and the longing for connection in the wake of unimaginable loss. Prudence "Pru" Spellmeyer is navigating her senior year in high school after the tragic death of her older brother, Davis. This disorienting journey unfolds through Pru’s struggle to deal with her grief...){kind=link}
Everything That Was
K.R. Hansen
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Everything That Was by K.R. Hansen delves deep into the layers of grief, memory, and the longing for connection in the wake of unimaginable loss. Prudence "Pru" Spellmeyer is navigating her senior year in high school after the tragic death of her older brother, Davis. This disorienting journey unfolds through Pru’s struggle to deal with her grief, the disintegration of her family, and the relentless pull of memories that haunt her. All she wants is to finish college and leave, but for her to succeed, she will need help. That is how Steve Nolan, her crush from childhood, who she hates for being the cause of her brother’s death, reconnects with her. Steve helps her with geometry, but she becomes emotionally dependent on him as she struggles with recurring dreams about her brother. Can the hand that caused the pain be the same to bring healing?
The characters are vividly crafted, with Pru's complex emotional landscape providing the narrative with heart. Her interactions with her distant parents, whom she refers to as "Robo-Dad" and "Zombie Mom," deepen the sense of isolation and fragmentation in her life. Davis's absence leaves a void in her life, and the memories of their close, almost telepathic bond linger heavily in her attempts to forge a new path. Pru's relationship with Steve—Davis's best friend—increases the level of tension as their shared history both comforts and complicates her grief. Set in a small, suffocating town, the backdrop amplifies Pru's feelings of entrapment. The familiar spaces become laden with reminders of Davis, prompting Pru's desire to escape to the city. K.R. Hansen skillfully contrasts the mundane setting with the vivid memories Pru has of a time when happiness filled the air, mainly through her bond with her brother. This is a beautifully crafted narrative about loss, grief, and healing, infused with humanity and realism. Everything That Was is a page-turning read.
Everything That Was by K.R. Hansen delves deep into the layers of grief, memory, and the longing for connection in the wake of unimaginable loss. Prudence "Pru" Spellmeyer is navigating her senior year in high school after the tragic death of her older brother, Davis. This disorienting journey unfolds through Pru’s struggle to deal with her grief, the disintegration of her family, and the relentless pull of memories that haunt her. All she wants is to finish college and leave, but for her to succeed, she will need help. That is how Steve Nolan, her crush from childhood, who she hates for being the cause of her brother’s death, reconnects with her. Steve helps her with geometry, but she becomes emotionally dependent on him as she struggles with recurring dreams about her brother. Can the hand that caused the pain be the same to bring healing?
The characters are vividly crafted, with Pru's complex emotional landscape providing the narrative with heart. Her interactions with her distant parents, whom she refers to as "Robo-Dad" and "Zombie Mom," deepen the sense of isolation and fragmentation in her life. Davis's absence leaves a void in her life, and the memories of their close, almost telepathic bond linger heavily in her attempts to forge a new path. Pru's relationship with Steve—Davis's best friend—increases the level of tension as their shared history both comforts and complicates her grief. Set in a small, suffocating town, the backdrop amplifies Pru's feelings of entrapment. The familiar spaces become laden with reminders of Davis, prompting Pru's desire to escape to the city. K.R. Hansen skillfully contrasts the mundane setting with the vivid memories Pru has of a time when happiness filled the air, mainly through her bond with her brother. This is a beautifully crafted narrative about loss, grief, and healing, infused with humanity and realism. Everything That Was is a page-turning read.
Recommend this book:
The Borealis Queen
Henry Guard
2025 Silver Medal
395 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
The Borealis Queen is an epic action-adventure tale by Henry Guard. Set in primeval North America during the end of the Ice Age, the story follows Nin, a young woman whose life irrevocably changed the day warriors from the Lithic tribe razed her village, butchered her people, and took her captive. Nin somehow manages to escape the clutches of the Lithic and its ruthless leader, Gore. But now, she must survive the brutal terrain and the cold while navigating prehistoric predators. Soon, Nin makes a name for herself as the tamer of the legendary beasts known as the Shadows and an Urbarak pack follows her around. When the Thal tribe rebels against the tyrannical Shermat, Nin must lend them her strength and protect them from Shermat's rage and the Amagi storm.
The Borealis Queen might remind readers of the Mel Gibson-directed movie Apocalypto. Like the Hollywood hit, this book is an action-packed survival/adventure story with fantastical elements underlining the narrative. Henry Guard has woven a gripping yarn full of action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. The author drops the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go, and it's a non-stop thrill ride from there. The plot is fast-paced, and each chapter brings a new set of surprises that will have you biting your nails in anticipation of what comes next. Nin is a likable protagonist. Her bonds with various animals make her easy to root for as she battles overwhelming odds to survive and protect those she cares about. Her character development throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. I highly recommend this novel to action-adventure lovers.
The Borealis Queen is an epic action-adventure tale by Henry Guard. Set in primeval North America during the end of the Ice Age, the story follows Nin, a young woman whose life irrevocably changed the day warriors from the Lithic tribe razed her village, butchered her people, and took her captive. Nin somehow manages to escape the clutches of the Lithic and its ruthless leader, Gore. But now, she must survive the brutal terrain and the cold while navigating prehistoric predators. Soon, Nin makes a name for herself as the tamer of the legendary beasts known as the Shadows and an Urbarak pack follows her around. When the Thal tribe rebels against the tyrannical Shermat, Nin must lend them her strength and protect them from Shermat's rage and the Amagi storm.
The Borealis Queen might remind readers of the Mel Gibson-directed movie Apocalypto. Like the Hollywood hit, this book is an action-packed survival/adventure story with fantastical elements underlining the narrative. Henry Guard has woven a gripping yarn full of action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. The author drops the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go, and it's a non-stop thrill ride from there. The plot is fast-paced, and each chapter brings a new set of surprises that will have you biting your nails in anticipation of what comes next. Nin is a likable protagonist. Her bonds with various animals make her easy to root for as she battles overwhelming odds to survive and protect those she cares about. Her character development throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. I highly recommend this novel to action-adventure lovers.
Recommend this book:
Zephyr's Flight
Ray Strong
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
A girl who dreams of being a Dragon Rider grows up idolizing her father. Astria becomes even more determined to become a rider when he goes missing. Years later, she still has no dragon. Then, she finds a flightless young dragon. As Zephyr becomes her companion, she defies the elders, and when Zephyr finally flies, he accepts Astria as his rider. Seen as a danger and a rebel, Astria faces exile. She learns to look after herself in the wild, trading pelts for needed provisions. When she notices a military threat, the council allows her to return to the village only under certain conditions. As she fulfills her role to save her family and friends, she discovers love, loyalty, and sacrifice. In the end, did she fulfill her promise to the dragons? Will she be able to rise above her people's prejudice and superstition? Zephyr's Flight by Ray Strong tells a story of courage and determination.
Zephyr's Flight by Ray Strong is an epic fantasy filled with action, exhilaration, and wonder. The characters are realistic, with thorough backstories and convictions. The world where Astria lives is well-developed, and the world-building is impeccable. Many themes are touched on, and the search for the safe place where you truly belong is the strongest. While Astria strives to fulfill her longing to live free with her dragon, she displays courage to take on responsibilities that lead to loss and heartache. She shows a sense of duty and perseverance that surpasses her age. The dragons are just as much characters as the people and have a prominent place in both the history and future of Astria's village. Though the novel starts with the notion of being a standard young adult fantasy, it develops into an intricate and epic adventure that deals with the harshness of war and the people and animals who lay down their lives for others. Zephyr's Flight implies much more than just a dragon flying; it symbolizes the yearnings and dreams of young people in a harsh and unforgiving world.
A girl who dreams of being a Dragon Rider grows up idolizing her father. Astria becomes even more determined to become a rider when he goes missing. Years later, she still has no dragon. Then, she finds a flightless young dragon. As Zephyr becomes her companion, she defies the elders, and when Zephyr finally flies, he accepts Astria as his rider. Seen as a danger and a rebel, Astria faces exile. She learns to look after herself in the wild, trading pelts for needed provisions. When she notices a military threat, the council allows her to return to the village only under certain conditions. As she fulfills her role to save her family and friends, she discovers love, loyalty, and sacrifice. In the end, did she fulfill her promise to the dragons? Will she be able to rise above her people's prejudice and superstition? Zephyr's Flight by Ray Strong tells a story of courage and determination.
Zephyr's Flight by Ray Strong is an epic fantasy filled with action, exhilaration, and wonder. The characters are realistic, with thorough backstories and convictions. The world where Astria lives is well-developed, and the world-building is impeccable. Many themes are touched on, and the search for the safe place where you truly belong is the strongest. While Astria strives to fulfill her longing to live free with her dragon, she displays courage to take on responsibilities that lead to loss and heartache. She shows a sense of duty and perseverance that surpasses her age. The dragons are just as much characters as the people and have a prominent place in both the history and future of Astria's village. Though the novel starts with the notion of being a standard young adult fantasy, it develops into an intricate and epic adventure that deals with the harshness of war and the people and animals who lay down their lives for others. Zephyr's Flight implies much more than just a dragon flying; it symbolizes the yearnings and dreams of young people in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Recommend this book:
Remember Pompeii
The Wanshiqi Trilogy
Kika Emers
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
680 Miles Away
Tara J Stone
2024 Honorable Mention
290 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
Searching for Zen
A Tale of Divine Destiny
Albert T Franklin
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
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.
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.
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