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Recommend this book:
The Girl Who Broke the Dark
An Epic Fantasy Adventure
Evelyn Puerto
2024 Finalist
402 Pages
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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
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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
196 Pages
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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.
Recommend this book:
The Realm of Gods
The Chronicles of Chaos Book 3
Glen Dahlgren
2024 Silver Medal
387 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Realm of Gods is penned by author Glen Dahlgren in the epic fantasy, adventure, and interpersonal drama genres, and is the third novel of The Chronicles of Chaos series. The work is intended for young adult readers. This immersive tale takes readers to a realm where dreams and reality merge, setting the stage for the ultimate battle between Order and Chaos. Despite efforts by priests to maintain peace, rebellion brews, pushing the world to the brink of war. Galen and Eve embark on a desperate quest to prevent Order's return, confronting both their nemesis and the exiled gods of Order, who still hunger for dominion.
Author Glen Dahlgren has crafted an immersive and thrilling story that captivated me from start to finish with its command of action and atmospheric scenes. Dahlgren's intricate world-building and compelling characters are evident from the first page, drawing readers into a rich tapestry of conflict and intrigue, where the lines between good and evil blur in the face of overwhelming odds. Each well-paced twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover the fate of beloved characters and the world they inhabit. I also felt that the character work was appropriate for the YA audience, offering authentic dialogue and realistic reactions from the characters that will be relatable to teen readers. This final installment of The Chronicles of Chaos series delivers on its promise of epic storytelling, weaving together themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Overall, The Realm of Gods is a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey that will linger in the imagination long after the final chapter. I recommend it and the series in general to fantasy fans everywhere seeking a thrilling new read.
The Realm of Gods is penned by author Glen Dahlgren in the epic fantasy, adventure, and interpersonal drama genres, and is the third novel of The Chronicles of Chaos series. The work is intended for young adult readers. This immersive tale takes readers to a realm where dreams and reality merge, setting the stage for the ultimate battle between Order and Chaos. Despite efforts by priests to maintain peace, rebellion brews, pushing the world to the brink of war. Galen and Eve embark on a desperate quest to prevent Order's return, confronting both their nemesis and the exiled gods of Order, who still hunger for dominion.
Author Glen Dahlgren has crafted an immersive and thrilling story that captivated me from start to finish with its command of action and atmospheric scenes. Dahlgren's intricate world-building and compelling characters are evident from the first page, drawing readers into a rich tapestry of conflict and intrigue, where the lines between good and evil blur in the face of overwhelming odds. Each well-paced twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover the fate of beloved characters and the world they inhabit. I also felt that the character work was appropriate for the YA audience, offering authentic dialogue and realistic reactions from the characters that will be relatable to teen readers. This final installment of The Chronicles of Chaos series delivers on its promise of epic storytelling, weaving together themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Overall, The Realm of Gods is a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey that will linger in the imagination long after the final chapter. I recommend it and the series in general to fantasy fans everywhere seeking a thrilling new read.
Recommend this book:
Stone & Sky
An Epic Fantasy Adventure
Z.S. Diamanti
2024 Gold Medal
466 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Stone & Sky is a work of fiction penned by author Z. S. Diamanti in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres and is the opening novel of the series of the same name. It is suitable for both teen and adult reading audiences. Readers are invited to enjoy all the glory of a classic epic fantasy adventure, immersing readers in the kingdom of Finlestia. Orin, a dedicated member of the Griffin Guard, faces a harrowing loss when his squadron succumbs to deadly wyvern riders. Alone but undeterred, Orin is determined to save others from a similar fate. Teaming up with a local huntsman's family, the narrative takes readers on a journey where friendships are tested, ancient magics are encountered, and mysterious dangers lurk. What results is an adventure of epic proportions and a captivating experience reminiscent of timeless fantasy tales.
Author Z. S. Diamanti has lovingly crafted an imaginative narrative that balances adventure, magic, and the enduring spirit of hope against impossible odds. The world of Finlestia is vividly brought to life, with a rich tapestry of fantasy elements taken from the classic playbook and given a fresh coat of atmosphere, attitude, and descriptive prowess. This is the kind of work that allows readers to get back to the real meat of what makes fantasy fiction so spellbinding and special, with high-stakes plot twists and cinematic scenes galore. The characters are compellingly drawn with a keen eye for dialogue that both characterizes and moves the story forward. The exciting plot events have a great pace and chapter structure that keeps you guessing too, unfolding with a sense of urgency that keeps you engaged. Overall, Stone & Sky is a delightful escape into a world of fantastical wonders and courageous endeavors, making it a must-read for fans of classic epic fantasy.
Stone & Sky is a work of fiction penned by author Z. S. Diamanti in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres and is the opening novel of the series of the same name. It is suitable for both teen and adult reading audiences. Readers are invited to enjoy all the glory of a classic epic fantasy adventure, immersing readers in the kingdom of Finlestia. Orin, a dedicated member of the Griffin Guard, faces a harrowing loss when his squadron succumbs to deadly wyvern riders. Alone but undeterred, Orin is determined to save others from a similar fate. Teaming up with a local huntsman's family, the narrative takes readers on a journey where friendships are tested, ancient magics are encountered, and mysterious dangers lurk. What results is an adventure of epic proportions and a captivating experience reminiscent of timeless fantasy tales.
Author Z. S. Diamanti has lovingly crafted an imaginative narrative that balances adventure, magic, and the enduring spirit of hope against impossible odds. The world of Finlestia is vividly brought to life, with a rich tapestry of fantasy elements taken from the classic playbook and given a fresh coat of atmosphere, attitude, and descriptive prowess. This is the kind of work that allows readers to get back to the real meat of what makes fantasy fiction so spellbinding and special, with high-stakes plot twists and cinematic scenes galore. The characters are compellingly drawn with a keen eye for dialogue that both characterizes and moves the story forward. The exciting plot events have a great pace and chapter structure that keeps you guessing too, unfolding with a sense of urgency that keeps you engaged. Overall, Stone & Sky is a delightful escape into a world of fantastical wonders and courageous endeavors, making it a must-read for fans of classic epic fantasy.
Recommend this book:
Kingdom Society
Broken Reality
Nathan Helm
2023 Finalist
362 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Parul Sood for Readers' Favorite
Broken Reality by Nathan Helm is an action-packed new installment of the Kingdom Society series. Building upon the foundation established in the first book, The Black Hood, Helm takes readers on a grander adventure. The beloved characters from the previous book make a return, with protagonist Alyeth Zane leading the charge. Accompanied by Cindrel, Xylok, and his new allies Ezra and Koren, Alyeth starts his training with the powerful warlock Pyrres Galhon in Stonehaven. As he delves deeper into his studies, he unravels the mysteries surrounding his enigmatic teacher. But what initially appears to be normal soon takes a perilous turn when Alyeth finds himself trapped in a situation orchestrated by the devious Game Master. Alyeth must rely on his own instincts and intuition to locate and save his crew. As he faces these unexpected challenges, Alyeth is also confronted with a new choice of power, further complicating his already tumultuous journey.
In Kingdom Society, Nathan Helm skillfully explores the development of Alyeth's character, as he grapples with his own internal conflicts and matures in the face of adversity. The narrative builds up to a crucial decision that has significant consequences for the future of Targus, leaving readers captivated and eagerly wondering about Alyeth's choices and their impact on the world they have come to love. Helm's seamless blend of sci-fi and fantasy adds depth and excitement to the narrative, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The author provides an in-depth perspective into the mind of a chosen hero, showcasing the protagonist's growth, struggles, and emotional journey. With the introduction of greater cosmic forces and their deceptive offers, readers are challenged to question their own objectivity and consider the true nature of power and choice. With its well-crafted characters, action-packed storyline, and a perfect blend of sci-fi and fantasy, this book is highly recommended for fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Alyeth's journey.
Broken Reality by Nathan Helm is an action-packed new installment of the Kingdom Society series. Building upon the foundation established in the first book, The Black Hood, Helm takes readers on a grander adventure. The beloved characters from the previous book make a return, with protagonist Alyeth Zane leading the charge. Accompanied by Cindrel, Xylok, and his new allies Ezra and Koren, Alyeth starts his training with the powerful warlock Pyrres Galhon in Stonehaven. As he delves deeper into his studies, he unravels the mysteries surrounding his enigmatic teacher. But what initially appears to be normal soon takes a perilous turn when Alyeth finds himself trapped in a situation orchestrated by the devious Game Master. Alyeth must rely on his own instincts and intuition to locate and save his crew. As he faces these unexpected challenges, Alyeth is also confronted with a new choice of power, further complicating his already tumultuous journey.
In Kingdom Society, Nathan Helm skillfully explores the development of Alyeth's character, as he grapples with his own internal conflicts and matures in the face of adversity. The narrative builds up to a crucial decision that has significant consequences for the future of Targus, leaving readers captivated and eagerly wondering about Alyeth's choices and their impact on the world they have come to love. Helm's seamless blend of sci-fi and fantasy adds depth and excitement to the narrative, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The author provides an in-depth perspective into the mind of a chosen hero, showcasing the protagonist's growth, struggles, and emotional journey. With the introduction of greater cosmic forces and their deceptive offers, readers are challenged to question their own objectivity and consider the true nature of power and choice. With its well-crafted characters, action-packed storyline, and a perfect blend of sci-fi and fantasy, this book is highly recommended for fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Alyeth's journey.
Recommend this book:
Thaddeus of Beewicke
The College of Sorcerers Trilogy, Book 1
Louis Sauvain
2023 Honorable Mention
532 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Thaddeus of Beewicke by Louis Sauvain is a fantasy adventure that forms the first book in The College of Sorcerers Trilogy. It is intended for young adults but can be thoroughly enjoyed by mature middle-grade and adult audiences too. Thaddeus is a young lad coming of age at a time when his future seems bright. In a world of magic and adventure, the master sorcerer, Silvestrus, promises Thaddeus’s parents that the boy will have a great career as his apprentice. But the journey is laden with far more danger, challenges, and unexpected hardships than our hero could imagine.
Louis Sauvain offers non-stop adventure and fantastic thrills in this brilliant story that encompasses all the elements that a solid young adult adventure ought to have. It takes Thaddeus through tricky themes like proving himself, thinking about his future place in the world, first love, and the difficulties of friendships and finding your people. All these highly relatable themes pair well with the over-arching danger of demons, magic, and peril to deliver a tale that teens can both lose themselves and see themselves represented in. I loved the dialogue in particular, which I found to be hugely relatable for modern audiences while still having the flair and atmosphere of a sword and sorcery fantasy epic. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Thaddeus of Beewicke to fantasy fans looking for their next intrepid adventure, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where The College of Sorcerers Trilogy takes us next.
Thaddeus of Beewicke by Louis Sauvain is a fantasy adventure that forms the first book in The College of Sorcerers Trilogy. It is intended for young adults but can be thoroughly enjoyed by mature middle-grade and adult audiences too. Thaddeus is a young lad coming of age at a time when his future seems bright. In a world of magic and adventure, the master sorcerer, Silvestrus, promises Thaddeus’s parents that the boy will have a great career as his apprentice. But the journey is laden with far more danger, challenges, and unexpected hardships than our hero could imagine.
Louis Sauvain offers non-stop adventure and fantastic thrills in this brilliant story that encompasses all the elements that a solid young adult adventure ought to have. It takes Thaddeus through tricky themes like proving himself, thinking about his future place in the world, first love, and the difficulties of friendships and finding your people. All these highly relatable themes pair well with the over-arching danger of demons, magic, and peril to deliver a tale that teens can both lose themselves and see themselves represented in. I loved the dialogue in particular, which I found to be hugely relatable for modern audiences while still having the flair and atmosphere of a sword and sorcery fantasy epic. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Thaddeus of Beewicke to fantasy fans looking for their next intrepid adventure, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where The College of Sorcerers Trilogy takes us next.
Recommend this book:
 is divided into five parts focusing on several characters. An overall theme of self-discovery and perseverance is present in each section. While his father is proud of his older sons, Sanc is ...){kind=link}
An Inheritance of Ash and Blood
Heirs of War Book 1
Jamie Edmundson
2023 Bronze Medal
438 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Being the son of a duke and nephew to the king doesn’t confer popularity on Sanc. Jamie Edmundson’s An Inheritance of Ash And Blood (Heirs of War Book 1) is divided into five parts focusing on several characters. An overall theme of self-discovery and perseverance is present in each section. While his father is proud of his older sons, Sanc is a family outcast for his red eyes and small stature. Sanc’s only friend is a huntsman, Jesper. Three assassins attempt to kill Sanc, but he emits powerful bolts of lightning, vaporizing them. Jesper introduces Sanc to Mage Rimmon, who trains him. King Nicolas calls the family to Guivergne, where Sanc’s brother’s defense of Sanc leads to permanent exile from Morbaine. During exile, Peyre agrees to help Liesel escape from Salvinus and Inge. King Nicolas dies without an heir to the throne, causing two families to fight for their rights. However, something sinister is growing, threatening everyone’s safety.
Jamie Edmundson made this medieval fantasy story come to life with an intense focus on vivid details. Sanc, Peyre, Liesel, and other characters' personalities are described in-depth, and their vulnerabilities are readily discernible. It's easy to follow the transitions from one person to another. The prologue hints at danger building in the background while the plot becomes complicated by political upheaval and battles for the right to a contested throne. The details of the battlefield scenes and two influential character deaths made me wince in horror as if I was seeing it in person. The dialogue was realistic to me. I want to read the sequel because it leaves a million possibilities. Readers who enjoy fantasy stories containing adventure and self-discovery should read An Inheritance of Ash and Blood (Heirs of War Book 1).
Being the son of a duke and nephew to the king doesn’t confer popularity on Sanc. Jamie Edmundson’s An Inheritance of Ash And Blood (Heirs of War Book 1) is divided into five parts focusing on several characters. An overall theme of self-discovery and perseverance is present in each section. While his father is proud of his older sons, Sanc is a family outcast for his red eyes and small stature. Sanc’s only friend is a huntsman, Jesper. Three assassins attempt to kill Sanc, but he emits powerful bolts of lightning, vaporizing them. Jesper introduces Sanc to Mage Rimmon, who trains him. King Nicolas calls the family to Guivergne, where Sanc’s brother’s defense of Sanc leads to permanent exile from Morbaine. During exile, Peyre agrees to help Liesel escape from Salvinus and Inge. King Nicolas dies without an heir to the throne, causing two families to fight for their rights. However, something sinister is growing, threatening everyone’s safety.
Jamie Edmundson made this medieval fantasy story come to life with an intense focus on vivid details. Sanc, Peyre, Liesel, and other characters' personalities are described in-depth, and their vulnerabilities are readily discernible. It's easy to follow the transitions from one person to another. The prologue hints at danger building in the background while the plot becomes complicated by political upheaval and battles for the right to a contested throne. The details of the battlefield scenes and two influential character deaths made me wince in horror as if I was seeing it in person. The dialogue was realistic to me. I want to read the sequel because it leaves a million possibilities. Readers who enjoy fantasy stories containing adventure and self-discovery should read An Inheritance of Ash and Blood (Heirs of War Book 1).
Recommend this book:
The Tale of the Young Witch
Joseph Minart, Davon Custis
2023 Bronze Medal
552 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Tale of the Young Witch by Joseph Minart and Davon Custis is a fantasy story for young adults. Witchcraft is long gone, and it will never influence the world again. Wrong, because once magic is imbued in the world, it never truly goes away. Some 450 years after witchcraft was supposed to have disappeared, it’s back with a vengeance, and it’s using a teenage girl called Amelia Twigg to manifest. Amelia doesn’t believe in it, even when she sees a broomstick floating around her cellar, but it doesn’t take long for her to realize that she is a witch. Unwilling to use her powers initially, that all changes when she is targeted by a secret group who want to use witchcraft for their evil ends. Refusing to give in, she needs to stay ahead of them until she learns to use her powers. Will Amelia succeed, or will they catch her before she becomes powerful enough and will she learn the truth about magic along the way?
The Tale of the Young Witch by Joseph Minart and Davon Custis is a fascinating story of adventure and magic. Despite being a fantasy, the characters are real people you get to know, and the plot itself feels authentic as well. This is an action-packed account filled with weird and wonderful creatures, even a dragon, magical folk, and plenty of sorcery along the way. The tension builds throughout as we follow Amelia on her journey, with plenty of twists and turns, ending in an epic finale. It’s a coming-of-age tale and although it’s aimed at the young adult audience, I think other age groups would enjoy it too. It’s a mix-up of several popular magic-themed movies and a thoroughly enjoyable epic.
The Tale of the Young Witch by Joseph Minart and Davon Custis is a fantasy story for young adults. Witchcraft is long gone, and it will never influence the world again. Wrong, because once magic is imbued in the world, it never truly goes away. Some 450 years after witchcraft was supposed to have disappeared, it’s back with a vengeance, and it’s using a teenage girl called Amelia Twigg to manifest. Amelia doesn’t believe in it, even when she sees a broomstick floating around her cellar, but it doesn’t take long for her to realize that she is a witch. Unwilling to use her powers initially, that all changes when she is targeted by a secret group who want to use witchcraft for their evil ends. Refusing to give in, she needs to stay ahead of them until she learns to use her powers. Will Amelia succeed, or will they catch her before she becomes powerful enough and will she learn the truth about magic along the way?
The Tale of the Young Witch by Joseph Minart and Davon Custis is a fascinating story of adventure and magic. Despite being a fantasy, the characters are real people you get to know, and the plot itself feels authentic as well. This is an action-packed account filled with weird and wonderful creatures, even a dragon, magical folk, and plenty of sorcery along the way. The tension builds throughout as we follow Amelia on her journey, with plenty of twists and turns, ending in an epic finale. It’s a coming-of-age tale and although it’s aimed at the young adult audience, I think other age groups would enjoy it too. It’s a mix-up of several popular magic-themed movies and a thoroughly enjoyable epic.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/season-of-the-dragon&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51lubHVTl0L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=In Season of the Dragon by Natalie Wright, Quen Tomo Santu stands apart from the people of Solia due to her Nixan, a changeling's "shadow soul" that harbors the potential to grow from calm to calamity. Though her father instilled in her the virtues of tranquillity, everyone living thing, including animals, flee from her presence. Quen's father wish...){kind=link}
Season of the Dragon
Natalie Wright
2023 Silver Medal
484 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In Season of the Dragon by Natalie Wright, Quen Tomo Santu stands apart from the people of Solia due to her Nixan, a changeling's "shadow soul" that harbors the potential to grow from calm to calamity. Though her father instilled in her the virtues of tranquillity, everyone living thing, including animals, flee from her presence. Quen's father wishes for her to study at Pillar of the Way of Water, yet her destiny takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Kentaro Nevara, a commanding mage of the dragon cult. Bound by her late mother's promise, Quen is obliged to accompany Nevara, who pledges to aid her in mastering her Nixan's initial metamorphosis, warning her that tragedy will follow unless she complies. In the wake of a vicious dragon attack that claims the life of someone dear to her, Quen and her brother Rhoji set off with a group of vigilantes on a perilous quest to vanquish the dragon.
“I want people I love to be free from harm. I won’t be responsible for more death.” Season of the Dragon by Natalie Wright is the first book in the epic fantasy Dragos Primeri series, and it is an ambitious one at that. Wright paces the novel at a speed that allows for the necessary backstory and worldbuilding to occur as we learn what we must in a new fantasy adventure, and she achieves this without compromising the novel's most important themes. It's not uncommon for a fantasy plot to be swallowed up by unnecessary detail and lengthy information dumps, but Wright avoids these with the polish and panache of a truly gifted storyteller. I love that we are able to actually witness Quen's metamorphosis in this first installment of the series. It is not a dangling carrot, it is a deeply moving transformation that has a traumatic impact both physically and emotionally for Quen, and also for another for whom she has intense feelings. Season of the Dragon is a beautifully woven coming-of-age hero's journey, complete with good and bad players, a bit of romance, and an ending that won't have you cursing over a cliffhanger.
In Season of the Dragon by Natalie Wright, Quen Tomo Santu stands apart from the people of Solia due to her Nixan, a changeling's "shadow soul" that harbors the potential to grow from calm to calamity. Though her father instilled in her the virtues of tranquillity, everyone living thing, including animals, flee from her presence. Quen's father wishes for her to study at Pillar of the Way of Water, yet her destiny takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Kentaro Nevara, a commanding mage of the dragon cult. Bound by her late mother's promise, Quen is obliged to accompany Nevara, who pledges to aid her in mastering her Nixan's initial metamorphosis, warning her that tragedy will follow unless she complies. In the wake of a vicious dragon attack that claims the life of someone dear to her, Quen and her brother Rhoji set off with a group of vigilantes on a perilous quest to vanquish the dragon.
“I want people I love to be free from harm. I won’t be responsible for more death.” Season of the Dragon by Natalie Wright is the first book in the epic fantasy Dragos Primeri series, and it is an ambitious one at that. Wright paces the novel at a speed that allows for the necessary backstory and worldbuilding to occur as we learn what we must in a new fantasy adventure, and she achieves this without compromising the novel's most important themes. It's not uncommon for a fantasy plot to be swallowed up by unnecessary detail and lengthy information dumps, but Wright avoids these with the polish and panache of a truly gifted storyteller. I love that we are able to actually witness Quen's metamorphosis in this first installment of the series. It is not a dangling carrot, it is a deeply moving transformation that has a traumatic impact both physically and emotionally for Quen, and also for another for whom she has intense feelings. Season of the Dragon is a beautifully woven coming-of-age hero's journey, complete with good and bad players, a bit of romance, and an ending that won't have you cursing over a cliffhanger.
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