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Recommend this book:
The Storyteller From Balincia
Book One of the Driftstone Series
S.W. Kent
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Storyteller From Balincia by S.W. Kent is an exciting fantasy that follows Birk, a young storyteller who stumbles upon a magic book that changes everything. Suddenly, he's discovering secrets about his home and his future that he never imagined. With his friends by his side, he faces old prophecies, powerful enemies, and forces he doesn’t fully understand. Kent builds a world bursting with life, where ideas about identity, legacy, and doing the right thing come through in the details—whether it's the customs, the landscapes, or the magic itself. The book blends classic fantasy elements with fresh, modern ideas, creating a story that feels timeless.
Author S.W. Kent's story world feels both new and familiar. I really liked how the different characters felt natural in the story instead of forced. The writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making it perfect for younger readers. The different cultures and perspectives make the world feel layered and real, like stepping into a place that actually exists. The story touches on identity and belonging, but it never feels heavy—it’s an adventure first, the kind that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next. What I found special was how Kent gives each character a journey that matters, making sure their struggles and choices feel personal but still tied to the bigger picture of change and resistance. The way he highlights the power of storytelling also makes you think about the stories we tell ourselves and the ones we pass on. Overall, The Storyteller From Balincia is a must-read for anyone who wants a fantasy adventure that tries new things while keeping what's best about fantasy stories.
The Storyteller From Balincia by S.W. Kent is an exciting fantasy that follows Birk, a young storyteller who stumbles upon a magic book that changes everything. Suddenly, he's discovering secrets about his home and his future that he never imagined. With his friends by his side, he faces old prophecies, powerful enemies, and forces he doesn’t fully understand. Kent builds a world bursting with life, where ideas about identity, legacy, and doing the right thing come through in the details—whether it's the customs, the landscapes, or the magic itself. The book blends classic fantasy elements with fresh, modern ideas, creating a story that feels timeless.
Author S.W. Kent's story world feels both new and familiar. I really liked how the different characters felt natural in the story instead of forced. The writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making it perfect for younger readers. The different cultures and perspectives make the world feel layered and real, like stepping into a place that actually exists. The story touches on identity and belonging, but it never feels heavy—it’s an adventure first, the kind that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next. What I found special was how Kent gives each character a journey that matters, making sure their struggles and choices feel personal but still tied to the bigger picture of change and resistance. The way he highlights the power of storytelling also makes you think about the stories we tell ourselves and the ones we pass on. Overall, The Storyteller From Balincia is a must-read for anyone who wants a fantasy adventure that tries new things while keeping what's best about fantasy stories.
Recommend this book:
 by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, ...){kind=link}
The Other Battle
Passage to Dawn
Derrick Smythe
2025 Honorable Mention
552 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, and that raises the stakes as betrayals and unforeseen alliances emerge. Our heroes have to confront their pasts and make impossible choices that will echo through generations. The Other Battle expands upon the intricate world-building and moral complexities of its predecessors, offering readers an exhilarating, character-driven adventure filled with magic, sacrifice, and high-stakes battles that will keep them pages turning well into the night.
Author Derrick Smythe crafts an immersive fantasy realm with intricate world-building that I dived into eagerly and was sorry to have to leave. It's an expansive setting filled with unique cultures, magic systems, and political landscapes, but his storytelling balances the bigger battles of the world with personal and emotional stories. There's also a diverse cast of characters which is refreshing to see, and they are written relatably, even against the fantasy foes they're facing. I found myself especially drawn to the moral dilemmas presented throughout the narrative, which add significant depth and elevate the story beyond a traditional good-versus-evil tale into something more nuanced and thought-provoking. Smythe has a knack for crafting breathtaking action sequences while keeping the emotional core strong and capturing both the chaos of battle and the quiet moments of character growth. Overall, The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) is a fantastic fantasy read that I highly recommend.
The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, and that raises the stakes as betrayals and unforeseen alliances emerge. Our heroes have to confront their pasts and make impossible choices that will echo through generations. The Other Battle expands upon the intricate world-building and moral complexities of its predecessors, offering readers an exhilarating, character-driven adventure filled with magic, sacrifice, and high-stakes battles that will keep them pages turning well into the night.
Author Derrick Smythe crafts an immersive fantasy realm with intricate world-building that I dived into eagerly and was sorry to have to leave. It's an expansive setting filled with unique cultures, magic systems, and political landscapes, but his storytelling balances the bigger battles of the world with personal and emotional stories. There's also a diverse cast of characters which is refreshing to see, and they are written relatably, even against the fantasy foes they're facing. I found myself especially drawn to the moral dilemmas presented throughout the narrative, which add significant depth and elevate the story beyond a traditional good-versus-evil tale into something more nuanced and thought-provoking. Smythe has a knack for crafting breathtaking action sequences while keeping the emotional core strong and capturing both the chaos of battle and the quiet moments of character growth. Overall, The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) is a fantastic fantasy read that I highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
Thaddeus and the Daemon
Louis Sauvain
2025 Honorable Mention
480 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Thaddeus and the Daemon by Louis Sauvain is the third book in the College of Sorcerers series. This well-crafted fantasy presents a setting where worlds intersect through mystical portals, ancient prophecies, and powerful sorcery. The story follows Thaddeus, a young apprentice at the Collegium Sorcerorum, who finds himself at the heart of a conflict that can destroy their world. Lives are at risk as Perditus gathers a goblin army to attack the school, and despite Thaddeus’s efforts to rally allies, time is running out. The traitorous Master unleashes the Daemon Morag to cast a devastating Stone Spell, while Thaddeus is captured and chained, forced to witness the Infernales being summoned to destroy everyone inside. He might be the only one who can save the school, and the cost will be very high. Do he and his unlikely allies have any chance?
I found Thaddeus and the Daemon to be a very imaginative tale that will appeal to fans of epic fantasies, such as the Harry Potter series. The characters are well-written, and I enjoyed the way Thaddeus is portrayed. He is a hero who, despite his flaws and self-doubt, embodies the qualities of a hero. His courage grows with each step he takes. His companions, like the Eagle daemon named Osiric, a goblin housekeeper named Lilyput, and others, are well-developed, too. Louis Sauvain explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the tension between knowledge and belief. The central theme is the struggle of good vs evil; in this narrative, the odds are stacked against the good side. The setting spans diverse landscapes—from a mystical college to desolate vineyards, secret caves, and coastal villages—each contributing to the atmosphere of wonder and danger. I enjoyed the crisp writing and was pulled in by the author’s superior storytelling, the impeccable characterization, and expert thematic development.
Thaddeus and the Daemon by Louis Sauvain is the third book in the College of Sorcerers series. This well-crafted fantasy presents a setting where worlds intersect through mystical portals, ancient prophecies, and powerful sorcery. The story follows Thaddeus, a young apprentice at the Collegium Sorcerorum, who finds himself at the heart of a conflict that can destroy their world. Lives are at risk as Perditus gathers a goblin army to attack the school, and despite Thaddeus’s efforts to rally allies, time is running out. The traitorous Master unleashes the Daemon Morag to cast a devastating Stone Spell, while Thaddeus is captured and chained, forced to witness the Infernales being summoned to destroy everyone inside. He might be the only one who can save the school, and the cost will be very high. Do he and his unlikely allies have any chance?
I found Thaddeus and the Daemon to be a very imaginative tale that will appeal to fans of epic fantasies, such as the Harry Potter series. The characters are well-written, and I enjoyed the way Thaddeus is portrayed. He is a hero who, despite his flaws and self-doubt, embodies the qualities of a hero. His courage grows with each step he takes. His companions, like the Eagle daemon named Osiric, a goblin housekeeper named Lilyput, and others, are well-developed, too. Louis Sauvain explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the tension between knowledge and belief. The central theme is the struggle of good vs evil; in this narrative, the odds are stacked against the good side. The setting spans diverse landscapes—from a mystical college to desolate vineyards, secret caves, and coastal villages—each contributing to the atmosphere of wonder and danger. I enjoyed the crisp writing and was pulled in by the author’s superior storytelling, the impeccable characterization, and expert thematic development.
Recommend this book:
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Two Crowns, Three Blades
Robert A. Walker
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
Two Crowns, Three Blades by Robert A. Walker is a compelling fantasy that combines the quest for revenge with a stirring adventure full of action, battles, romance, and strange creatures in the mythical land of Baelon. King Axel of Aranox, devastated by the death of his wife and daughter, has declared war on the GOT (Guild of Takers). The rulers of the Guild (The High Order) respond to the dangers by seeking the murder of not just King Axel but also the other ruler of Baelon, King Tygre. As an ensemble cast of characters weave complicated and compelling plots, each is driven by different motivations but the desire for revenge and retribution lies at the heart of most of their actions. Whilst Tristan Godfrey seeks to find the murderer of his twin brother, Tristan’s true love, Sibil Dunn, has embarked on a mission of her own. Overseer Reynard Rascall is seeking to avenge the death of Spiros, whilst other players mesh together to create a compelling and enthralling adventure.
Fantasy is not usually my go-to read but Two Crowns, Three Blades was a fascinating, in-depth read with compelling plots, sub-plots, and story arcs that carried me along on a rollicking adventure. Author Robert A. Walker has penned the perfect balance between action, character development, and intrigue. What I particularly enjoyed was that the story is related through differing perspectives which gives the reader much more information on the characters’ motivations. Although there is no shortage of action, battles, and dangerous, mysterious creatures, the narrative is beautifully interwoven with quiet, reflective moments that allow readers to explore fully the depth of each character. I enjoyed the scenes involving Reynard and Charise. Although both were ruthless killers, the banter between them was witty and clever, and added greatly to their journey in search of the elusive GOT gold. The author skillfully keeps so many characters, story arcs, and motivations in play without losing track of the story’s direction. The action, fighting, and unusual creatures will certainly satisfy readers who enjoy a good, old-fashioned medieval-style drama; however, there is a depth to this story that merits interest from all readers. I enjoyed the book immensely and highly recommend it.
Two Crowns, Three Blades by Robert A. Walker is a compelling fantasy that combines the quest for revenge with a stirring adventure full of action, battles, romance, and strange creatures in the mythical land of Baelon. King Axel of Aranox, devastated by the death of his wife and daughter, has declared war on the GOT (Guild of Takers). The rulers of the Guild (The High Order) respond to the dangers by seeking the murder of not just King Axel but also the other ruler of Baelon, King Tygre. As an ensemble cast of characters weave complicated and compelling plots, each is driven by different motivations but the desire for revenge and retribution lies at the heart of most of their actions. Whilst Tristan Godfrey seeks to find the murderer of his twin brother, Tristan’s true love, Sibil Dunn, has embarked on a mission of her own. Overseer Reynard Rascall is seeking to avenge the death of Spiros, whilst other players mesh together to create a compelling and enthralling adventure.
Fantasy is not usually my go-to read but Two Crowns, Three Blades was a fascinating, in-depth read with compelling plots, sub-plots, and story arcs that carried me along on a rollicking adventure. Author Robert A. Walker has penned the perfect balance between action, character development, and intrigue. What I particularly enjoyed was that the story is related through differing perspectives which gives the reader much more information on the characters’ motivations. Although there is no shortage of action, battles, and dangerous, mysterious creatures, the narrative is beautifully interwoven with quiet, reflective moments that allow readers to explore fully the depth of each character. I enjoyed the scenes involving Reynard and Charise. Although both were ruthless killers, the banter between them was witty and clever, and added greatly to their journey in search of the elusive GOT gold. The author skillfully keeps so many characters, story arcs, and motivations in play without losing track of the story’s direction. The action, fighting, and unusual creatures will certainly satisfy readers who enjoy a good, old-fashioned medieval-style drama; however, there is a depth to this story that merits interest from all readers. I enjoyed the book immensely and highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver
D. Wallace Peach
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver by D. Wallace Peach follows the alluring adventures of Erith, a woman of both human and fae origin. Erith is the new Seasons' Weaver, having assumed the role from her charmed mother, Dania. Even though Erith lacks confidence in her new position, her courage and compassion shine through. Unforeseen danger looms over both the human and charmed world. Human hunters have been found guilty of desecrating the forests. In retribution, the Winter King abducts Erith and attempts to force her to weave an eternal winter. He intends to destroy every mortal soul until there is none left. Charmed beings who rely on spring for survival will also become collateral damage if the Winter King gets his way. Join Erith and her companions on this riveting journey to save their world from icy destruction. Will their tale be one of victory or defeat?
D. Wallace Peach is skilled in crafting a compelling story designed to grab the reader's attention and draw them in. Her novel touches on themes like the beauty of life, friendship, self-discovery, character growth, and resilience. Peach intricately weaves each scene, making the reader feel like another active contributor in this exciting journey. I enjoyed watching Erith's character gradually transform from one of uncertainty to one of boldness. Her inner growth is exceptional as she slowly learns to appreciate her supernatural abilities and forge close associations with the characters who aid her on her quest. The setting in this enthralling world is vibrant and vividly portrayed. Readers will be fully immersed in the human and charmed worlds with their unique capabilities and customs. I recommend Tale of the Seasons' Weaver to fantasy lovers, far and wide. The storyline will grab you and leave you wanting more.
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver by D. Wallace Peach follows the alluring adventures of Erith, a woman of both human and fae origin. Erith is the new Seasons' Weaver, having assumed the role from her charmed mother, Dania. Even though Erith lacks confidence in her new position, her courage and compassion shine through. Unforeseen danger looms over both the human and charmed world. Human hunters have been found guilty of desecrating the forests. In retribution, the Winter King abducts Erith and attempts to force her to weave an eternal winter. He intends to destroy every mortal soul until there is none left. Charmed beings who rely on spring for survival will also become collateral damage if the Winter King gets his way. Join Erith and her companions on this riveting journey to save their world from icy destruction. Will their tale be one of victory or defeat?
D. Wallace Peach is skilled in crafting a compelling story designed to grab the reader's attention and draw them in. Her novel touches on themes like the beauty of life, friendship, self-discovery, character growth, and resilience. Peach intricately weaves each scene, making the reader feel like another active contributor in this exciting journey. I enjoyed watching Erith's character gradually transform from one of uncertainty to one of boldness. Her inner growth is exceptional as she slowly learns to appreciate her supernatural abilities and forge close associations with the characters who aid her on her quest. The setting in this enthralling world is vibrant and vividly portrayed. Readers will be fully immersed in the human and charmed worlds with their unique capabilities and customs. I recommend Tale of the Seasons' Weaver to fantasy lovers, far and wide. The storyline will grab you and leave you wanting more.
Recommend this book:
Company of Bones
Book One of the Pendulum Series
Brennan Morton
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
Tar Hardharmmer, the aging war chief of the ruthless Golden Wolves, was preparing to face and perhaps crush a gang of mercenaries dubbed The Company of Bones. But the chief’s warband had never faced anything like these enigmatic mercenaries. In the Empire of Darl’Neth, trouble always seems to follow Garlan, a cunning young thief and gambler. After sinking into enormous debt and failing to pay, Garlan’s fate lies in the hands of The Broker, a feared dealer who pulls the strings in Darl’Neth’s criminal underworld. The Broker sends Garlan on a dangerous mission in the company of Vine’s gang, a ruthless pack of outlaws and murderers, in exchange for his redemption. However, Vine’s gang is in deep trouble with a wealthy lord. There is a bounty on their heads. What will happen to Garlan? But that’s not all. A half-orc boy is determined to avenge his slaughtered family. But first, he must fight for survival in the wild lands of Len’Neth. Discover how it all goes down in Brennan Morton’s Company of Bones: Book One of the Pendulum Series.
Brennan Morton’s Company of Bones is a must-read for lovers of gripping fantasy epics blended with adventure, action, drama, humor, suspense, plot twists, and more. Morton dropped me into a world of endless, magnificent imagination with an ingenious plot and immersive prose. The storyline explores the well-crafted, dynamic cast and makes them both unforgettable and compelling. Morton pays attention to detail, but just enough not to bog down the plot’s pace. The evocative depictions colorfully brought the scenes to life. I was plunged into a dark medieval world where outlaws, bounties, gold, war, women, greed, honor, betrayal, and murder ruled the day. I reveled in the sharp, lively conversations laced with dark humor. Alongside the introspective voice, these gave depth to the cast’s conflicts and complex traits. This is an incredible start to the Pendulum Series. I loved it. I can’t wait to read the next installments.
Tar Hardharmmer, the aging war chief of the ruthless Golden Wolves, was preparing to face and perhaps crush a gang of mercenaries dubbed The Company of Bones. But the chief’s warband had never faced anything like these enigmatic mercenaries. In the Empire of Darl’Neth, trouble always seems to follow Garlan, a cunning young thief and gambler. After sinking into enormous debt and failing to pay, Garlan’s fate lies in the hands of The Broker, a feared dealer who pulls the strings in Darl’Neth’s criminal underworld. The Broker sends Garlan on a dangerous mission in the company of Vine’s gang, a ruthless pack of outlaws and murderers, in exchange for his redemption. However, Vine’s gang is in deep trouble with a wealthy lord. There is a bounty on their heads. What will happen to Garlan? But that’s not all. A half-orc boy is determined to avenge his slaughtered family. But first, he must fight for survival in the wild lands of Len’Neth. Discover how it all goes down in Brennan Morton’s Company of Bones: Book One of the Pendulum Series.
Brennan Morton’s Company of Bones is a must-read for lovers of gripping fantasy epics blended with adventure, action, drama, humor, suspense, plot twists, and more. Morton dropped me into a world of endless, magnificent imagination with an ingenious plot and immersive prose. The storyline explores the well-crafted, dynamic cast and makes them both unforgettable and compelling. Morton pays attention to detail, but just enough not to bog down the plot’s pace. The evocative depictions colorfully brought the scenes to life. I was plunged into a dark medieval world where outlaws, bounties, gold, war, women, greed, honor, betrayal, and murder ruled the day. I reveled in the sharp, lively conversations laced with dark humor. Alongside the introspective voice, these gave depth to the cast’s conflicts and complex traits. This is an incredible start to the Pendulum Series. I loved it. I can’t wait to read the next installments.
Recommend this book:
Orphan's Quest
The Great Forget Fantasy Series Volume 1
Terry Ironwood
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Orphan's Quest is the first volume of The Great Forget Fantasy Series by Terry Ironwood. Left as a child at the gates of Vanalon, a small kingdom in the land of Amrika, Chip grew up as an orphan with red eyes that drew plenty of scorn and suspicion from others. Accused of being a demon, Chip somehow found a place to work as a kitchen helper in the castle of King Barton. However, it was Wizard Xander and his Protector, weapons master Garth Stone, who finally took Chip under their wing to rescue him from banishment and worse. At the age of 16, he trains under his new mentors and develops his Power, ready to embark on his Manhood Quest at the Pass of Death. But the Dark Elves and their demon army are on the move.
Full of mystery, action, and magic, Orphan's Quest is an enthralling coming-of-age tale for young adult fantasy lovers. Author Terry Ironwood begins The Great Forget Fantasy Series with a bang, as this captivating first installment draws the reader into an immersive setting with fascinating worldbuilding and lore. From the first page onward, you find yourself rooting for young Chip as he learns to stand up for himself in a cruel world that sees him only as an 'other.' Chip's scenes with Xander, Garth, Chase, and Princess Eleanor were some of my favorite parts of the book. I also enjoyed the battle sequences. Laced with tension and intrigue, the stakes always felt high during the action scenes. The book ends on a cliffhanger, which only made me even more eager to read the sequel. Overall, it's a gem of a book for young adult fantasy readers.
Orphan's Quest is the first volume of The Great Forget Fantasy Series by Terry Ironwood. Left as a child at the gates of Vanalon, a small kingdom in the land of Amrika, Chip grew up as an orphan with red eyes that drew plenty of scorn and suspicion from others. Accused of being a demon, Chip somehow found a place to work as a kitchen helper in the castle of King Barton. However, it was Wizard Xander and his Protector, weapons master Garth Stone, who finally took Chip under their wing to rescue him from banishment and worse. At the age of 16, he trains under his new mentors and develops his Power, ready to embark on his Manhood Quest at the Pass of Death. But the Dark Elves and their demon army are on the move.
Full of mystery, action, and magic, Orphan's Quest is an enthralling coming-of-age tale for young adult fantasy lovers. Author Terry Ironwood begins The Great Forget Fantasy Series with a bang, as this captivating first installment draws the reader into an immersive setting with fascinating worldbuilding and lore. From the first page onward, you find yourself rooting for young Chip as he learns to stand up for himself in a cruel world that sees him only as an 'other.' Chip's scenes with Xander, Garth, Chase, and Princess Eleanor were some of my favorite parts of the book. I also enjoyed the battle sequences. Laced with tension and intrigue, the stakes always felt high during the action scenes. The book ends on a cliffhanger, which only made me even more eager to read the sequel. Overall, it's a gem of a book for young adult fantasy readers.
Recommend this book:
The Girl Who Broke the Dark
An Epic Fantasy Adventure
Evelyn Puerto
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite
Evelyn Puerto brings us a truly epic fantasy adventure in The Girl Who Broke the Dark. This is the first novel of the Royal Mages series. The evil sorcerer Cetus was banished to an underwater realm more than a thousand years ago. During that time there was a great rift in Ardebil and Malkh and its citizens vanished into that rift. Little by little Cetus gathered some of his power back and, upon discovering that the people of Malkh had survived, placed a curse on their prince. To break the curse and keep Cetus from exacting his revenge, Princess Eliana of Ymittos has to awaken the sleeping prince or face being the cause of an entire kingdom’s demise. Legend has it that the people of Malkh are half goat or half fish. To make matters worse, she only has so much time to do it.
This is a magnificent role reversal of the legendary Sleeping Beauty. Author Evelyn Puerto scattered the puzzle pieces onto the board and slowly turned them over to reveal an intricate and complex plot. Once these puzzle pieces start fitting into each other, the brilliance of it is revealed. The author has an amazing gift that keeps the reader interested by stimulating all the senses and having a diverse cast of unique characters. The scenery is rich and descriptive, and I could easily lose myself in this book with characters you love to hate and characters you long to see succeed. I gladly recommend this book to young adults and all fans of fantasy. With The Girl Who Broke the Dark being the first volume, I look forward to finding out what happens next.
Evelyn Puerto brings us a truly epic fantasy adventure in The Girl Who Broke the Dark. This is the first novel of the Royal Mages series. The evil sorcerer Cetus was banished to an underwater realm more than a thousand years ago. During that time there was a great rift in Ardebil and Malkh and its citizens vanished into that rift. Little by little Cetus gathered some of his power back and, upon discovering that the people of Malkh had survived, placed a curse on their prince. To break the curse and keep Cetus from exacting his revenge, Princess Eliana of Ymittos has to awaken the sleeping prince or face being the cause of an entire kingdom’s demise. Legend has it that the people of Malkh are half goat or half fish. To make matters worse, she only has so much time to do it.
This is a magnificent role reversal of the legendary Sleeping Beauty. Author Evelyn Puerto scattered the puzzle pieces onto the board and slowly turned them over to reveal an intricate and complex plot. Once these puzzle pieces start fitting into each other, the brilliance of it is revealed. The author has an amazing gift that keeps the reader interested by stimulating all the senses and having a diverse cast of unique characters. The scenery is rich and descriptive, and I could easily lose myself in this book with characters you love to hate and characters you long to see succeed. I gladly recommend this book to young adults and all fans of fantasy. With The Girl Who Broke the Dark being the first volume, I look forward to finding out what happens next.
Recommend this book:
Thaddeus and the Master
Louis Sauvain
2024 Honorable Mention
442 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Thaddeus and the Master is a work of fiction for young adult readers in the epic fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres. Penned by author Louis Sauvain, the story unfolds in the Dark Ages, where four boys are apprenticed to the enigmatic Master Silvestrus and his sentient mule, Asullus, at the ancient College of Sorcerers. Under the care of the green Goblin House Mistress Lilyput, they discover her devotion to the specter, Brother Longbone, and the mysterious Tower of the East on the college grounds. As the boys learn sorcery, they suspect Master Perditus of nefarious intentions, aiming to unleash the Tower's evil in a pact with the Arch-Demon, Morag. Thaddeus of Beewicke, leading his comrades and aided by allies, must confront Master Perditus to prevent catastrophe.
Author Louis Sauvain has put every ounce of imagination and enthusiasm into crafting such a vivid setting, where the promise of sorcery and arcane arts is sure to excite YA readers from the very first page. The characters, from the enigmatic Master Silvestrus to the brave Thaddeus of Beewicke and his allies, are richly developed and engaging, with some stellar dialogue touches that make them all unique, but also contribute to the overall olde-worlde style of the narrative. The intricate plot, woven with shifting elements of magic, suspense, and alliances, kept me hooked from beginning to end and was balanced well to offer introspective moments of personal character growth. I also found the use of atmospheric description highly effective in matching the emotional mood of each scene, making it feel totally immersive as you watch the young heroes rise to each challenge. Overall, Thaddeus and the Master is a captivating read that transports readers to a world of adventure and magic, and I would certainly recommend it to fans of YA fantasy adventures everywhere.
Thaddeus and the Master is a work of fiction for young adult readers in the epic fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres. Penned by author Louis Sauvain, the story unfolds in the Dark Ages, where four boys are apprenticed to the enigmatic Master Silvestrus and his sentient mule, Asullus, at the ancient College of Sorcerers. Under the care of the green Goblin House Mistress Lilyput, they discover her devotion to the specter, Brother Longbone, and the mysterious Tower of the East on the college grounds. As the boys learn sorcery, they suspect Master Perditus of nefarious intentions, aiming to unleash the Tower's evil in a pact with the Arch-Demon, Morag. Thaddeus of Beewicke, leading his comrades and aided by allies, must confront Master Perditus to prevent catastrophe.
Author Louis Sauvain has put every ounce of imagination and enthusiasm into crafting such a vivid setting, where the promise of sorcery and arcane arts is sure to excite YA readers from the very first page. The characters, from the enigmatic Master Silvestrus to the brave Thaddeus of Beewicke and his allies, are richly developed and engaging, with some stellar dialogue touches that make them all unique, but also contribute to the overall olde-worlde style of the narrative. The intricate plot, woven with shifting elements of magic, suspense, and alliances, kept me hooked from beginning to end and was balanced well to offer introspective moments of personal character growth. I also found the use of atmospheric description highly effective in matching the emotional mood of each scene, making it feel totally immersive as you watch the young heroes rise to each challenge. Overall, Thaddeus and the Master is a captivating read that transports readers to a world of adventure and magic, and I would certainly recommend it to fans of YA fantasy adventures everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Time's Orphan
Hayley Chow
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Time's Orphan by Hayley Chow is a YA fantasy that tells the story of Emara, who lives in Okarria, a land destroyed by war and overrun by cannibals and the undead doing the bidding of the Dead King. A mage and a necromancer have resurrected Idriel, or the Dead King as he is known, but they need a Time Heir, blessed with a healing gift, to heal Idriel's broken body. Emara has hidden her gift of healing all her life and only uses it to help ease pain and heal minor wounds. When the city of Faveno falls to the enemy, she is captured and taken to Austerden, where the Dead King rules. On her way there, she is joined by a talking black cat and reunited with the Shadow Heir and Dragon Heir. Together, they can kill the Dead King and save their beloved Okaria. But just as all seems lost, something miraculous happens, and Emara is sent back in time with the order to find Bellaphia, a Magus who can help her with her gift as the Time Heir. In the past, she makes friends with a street rat and the second in line Time Heir. Together, they travel to the deadlands, face death, and find Bellaphia. As Emara's gift grows, she learns how to overcome the enemies waiting for her back in her own time. If only she could save her friends from the death she saw claim them. Only when she returns will she know what happened and if she can save her friends and her country.
Time's Orphan by Hayley Chow is a riveting YA fantasy with immersive world-building and intriguing characters. The story develops fast, and continuous action drives the plot and creates a feeling of urgency within the reader. The book touches on themes like betrayal, loyalty, fate, and bravery. The effects of war on people and the environment in which they live are highlighted by juxtaposing the war-ravaged Okaria with the peaceful and prosperous Okaria to which Emara is sent back. The characters are authentic and show growth and development throughout the events. There is a sweet element of romance. What I liked about this book is that, although it is the third in the series, you don't need to have read the previous books as it can be read as a stand-alone. This is a series I recommend to avid YA fantasy readers of all ages.
Time's Orphan by Hayley Chow is a YA fantasy that tells the story of Emara, who lives in Okarria, a land destroyed by war and overrun by cannibals and the undead doing the bidding of the Dead King. A mage and a necromancer have resurrected Idriel, or the Dead King as he is known, but they need a Time Heir, blessed with a healing gift, to heal Idriel's broken body. Emara has hidden her gift of healing all her life and only uses it to help ease pain and heal minor wounds. When the city of Faveno falls to the enemy, she is captured and taken to Austerden, where the Dead King rules. On her way there, she is joined by a talking black cat and reunited with the Shadow Heir and Dragon Heir. Together, they can kill the Dead King and save their beloved Okaria. But just as all seems lost, something miraculous happens, and Emara is sent back in time with the order to find Bellaphia, a Magus who can help her with her gift as the Time Heir. In the past, she makes friends with a street rat and the second in line Time Heir. Together, they travel to the deadlands, face death, and find Bellaphia. As Emara's gift grows, she learns how to overcome the enemies waiting for her back in her own time. If only she could save her friends from the death she saw claim them. Only when she returns will she know what happened and if she can save her friends and her country.
Time's Orphan by Hayley Chow is a riveting YA fantasy with immersive world-building and intriguing characters. The story develops fast, and continuous action drives the plot and creates a feeling of urgency within the reader. The book touches on themes like betrayal, loyalty, fate, and bravery. The effects of war on people and the environment in which they live are highlighted by juxtaposing the war-ravaged Okaria with the peaceful and prosperous Okaria to which Emara is sent back. The characters are authentic and show growth and development throughout the events. There is a sweet element of romance. What I liked about this book is that, although it is the third in the series, you don't need to have read the previous books as it can be read as a stand-alone. This is a series I recommend to avid YA fantasy readers of all ages.
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