Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

Creatura is the first book in The Creatura Series written by Nely Cab. Seventeen-year-old Isis Martin has forgotten what a good night's sleep is. For three months, the constant nightmares of a man trying to kill her had forced Isis awake, leaving her too afraid to go back to sleep. After passing out at school due to sleep deprivation, Isis awakens in the nurse’s office. To her horror, the man Isis had seen so often in her dreams walks into the nurse’s office and takes her from school. David Chios is no killer, however, and has come into Isis’ life in order to ascertain the reason that Isis keeps travelling to his realm at night when she sleeps, regardless of his fruitless attempts to deter her. David worries about Isis’ well-being and safety, as there are many in his world that would rejoice in harming her. Fate has its own plans, however, as Isis and David are drawn to each other by an unknown force. With loved ones trying to forcibly prevent their romance from blossoming and Isis’ mother, Claire, suddenly acting like a love-sick teenager, Isis does her best to keep a level head, knowing that a union between her and David can never be. Little does Isis realize that David carries a deep burden; he knows that Isis is not who she believes herself to be and, should the secret of her true identity be discovered, Isis would never be safe again.

I wish I could be honest and say that I am speechless, but that would result in an overly-short book review, so I will simply say how incredible this reading journey was. Firstly, I loved seeing the Goddess’ name used as that of a cherished beauty again, just as it was originally intended. Nely Cab has presented the reader with the story of a girl who, at first, is plagued by a PTSD-like sleeping disorder, but that theory is turned on its head when the man from her dreams appears in real life. The back story of each character, including what they are and why they are there, is delivered in great detail, giving them depth and a real presence in the tale. Creatura delves into different worlds, different beings, different times and the resultant offspring of different species which are good or evil. The romantic aspect of the story set my heart aflame, regardless that their love was forbidden. Isis’ former boyfriend is mentioned in passing now and again, but returns as a vital character in the scheme of things. I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed Creatura and how delighted I am that it is the first in a series of books, which I will be sure to add to my personal collection. I recommend Creatura to readers who enjoy humor, mystery, tragedy, action, thrill and romance combined in an incredible paranormal adventure.

Reviewed by Carine Engelbrecht for Readers' Favorite

In The Monster Realm, Nara Duffie takes readers on an exciting and sometimes hair-raising adventure. Lillian has always been drawn to the Greek myths, but she never suspected that they might play a role in her sister's disappearance two years earlier. When she feels compelled to revisit the location of her sister's last known whereabouts, she meets an enigmatic boy named Jack, who leads her into the hidden land of Lanodeka. This is a world where the myths of old are still alive, but perhaps not quite content with their present obscurity. Accompanied by her two good friends, Maisy and Katy, she soon finds herself dodging deadly mythical beasts and bloodthirsty elves. Will she finally find the answers to all her questions? Will she ever find her way home?

Do not expect to encounter the noble, handsome elves of Tolkien or the pretty, innocent mermaids of Disney in Nara Duffie's The Monster Realm. The otherworldly beings that populate Lanodeka are a different brand. Yet, although they are deadlier, they are also full of surprises, turning familiar tropes on their heads. The odd physics and geography of this world likewise take a little getting used to, although this is adequately explained within the narrative. The characterization, however, is solid, balanced and consistent. We learn that impulsive Maisy, who often rushes headlong in the wrong direction, is also a collector of spicy Shakespearean curses while Katy, the most timid of the trio, is revealed to possess a rather unusual talent. Similarly, when Lillian explores her memories of her sister Bluebell for clues, confusingly painful memories are dove-tailed with heart-warming ones. I loved the styling and the illustrations of this e-book. The story is fast-paced, fun and, fortunately, there is a sequel.

Reviewed by Michelle Randall for Readers' Favorite

Ancient Guardians: The Reckoning starts at the end of a rescue mission with Levi awakening, having lost all memory of the last nine years of his life. Believe it or not, Levi did a great deal of growing during those years and is a completely different person ... almost. There is the task of trying to get Levi's memory back, still guarding the Key, and Earth to save, and people still unaware that aliens exist. Although the world leaders do, they have decided they don't believe the threat is enough to inform the people.

Take a science fiction book, where the world is technologically advanced in medicine and science, and knowledge of other dimensions and realms, and travel between them. Then add in the romance and pageantry of the Victorian and Regency eras, mix them together with intrigue, mystery, and action and you have the land of Pendiams and the Ancient Guardians series. Ancient Guardians: The Reckoning in the fourth book in this series by author S.L. Morgan. The wonderful thing is that you really could pick up this book and read it, enjoy it, never having read the others in the series. Author S.L. Morgan weaves an amazing story that brings together fantasy, science fiction, intrigue, mystery, espionage, and so much more.

Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

The Chosen Knights is the second book in the Angel Knights series written by Mary Ting. In fourteenth century France, a member of the Knights Templar, Jacques de Molay, rushes to the church when he sees the flames. Hoping to rescue Father Simon from the blaze, he is instead accosted by evil as Cyrus, the master of all demons, appears and demands to know the whereabouts of the treasure before cursing all future generations of the Knights Templar. Fast forward to current day, and seventeen-year-old twins, Lucia and Zach – demon-hunting angels (Venators) from the Crossroads – are about to start their schooling year on Earth. Sent as undercover students to Hilo High School in Hawaii, the twins are to investigate a spate of mysterious disappearances, each occurring on Friday the thirteenth, while trying to blend in with the locals. Danger also lurks during every Blue Moon. Their socially awkward next door neighbors, Jack Molay and his family, seem to have many of the answers they are looking for, with Jack’s lineage shocking the Venators. Thrown into a world of jealousy, vindictiveness, and bullying, the twins are puzzled as to why humans behave so abysmally to one another. Trying to determine good from evil on Earth is a lot more difficult than Lucia and Zach could have ever imagined, but they must in order to break the deadly curse.

Mary Ting has captured ‘newcomers to Earth’ so beautifully, both in the teenage twins and their guardian, Uncle Davin. With so many supernaturals on the scene, it truly is a mind-twister trying to differentiate between a bully and a demon, as their traits are so similar. The Chosen Knights was addictive as I was unable to stop reading from first page until last. The different players are clearly set out in the initial chapters, making it easy to follow the story which is fast-paced and incorporates just the right amount of drama, action and comedy. I very much enjoyed this incredible tale of the Knights Templar and appreciate the research that Mary Ting has obviously put into writing such an epic. I will be seeking out more of Mary’s titles in the future. I recommend this book to those who enjoy their fantasy laced with history, action, drama, romance and love in this hilarious, yet suspenseful, supernatural cocktail which will leave you begging for more.

Reviewed by Kim Anisi for Readers' Favorite

Forever by Chanda Hahn is book five in the series, An Unfortunate Fairy Tale. After Mina learned some horrible things about her past and what she had done (while trying to do something good), she is now almost alone in the world. The fairy godmother guild has been destroyed, and Teague is more powerful than ever. The only way to save her friends and her brother is to willingly become Teague's prisoner. Is there still something good left in his poisoned heart, and what chance does Mina have locked away in a castle in the fairy realm? And what will Mina do when she finds out about her own special power that has led to her making some changes in other people without her being aware of it?

Forever by Chanda Hahn is a very exciting and well written fantasy novel in which the reader will be surprised a few times as the plot is unpredictable. While I enjoyed the previous four books in the series, I think the last one is the best as it gives the series a fitting end (or is it the end?). The series is suitable for readers of almost all ages as it manages to give you a lot of action, but without adding unnecessary gore and vulgarity. It's a nice, clean, exciting read with wonderfully unique characters that all have their part to play. Some questions were finally answered in this book, and you have to hand it to Chanda Hahn: the answers weren't always quite what you thought they'd be. I'd definitely recommend the whole series to lovers of fairy tales with a modern twist.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Everville: The Rise of Mallory by Roy Huff is the third book in the Everville series that will entertain readers with its adventure and drama. The journey continues where Owen Sage is victorious and he goes on undefeated, but his last battle in Everville gives rise to a new villain, Mallory. Owen Sage must now save all the species of Everville from this villain. Mallory uses the help of a powerful dragon this time to destroy the people. As Owen gets ready for a new battle in Everville, it exposes him to new creatures, true friendships and the discovery of new insights. With its whimsical creatures, well developed characters and adventures, this book is a gripping tale that will appeal to all sci-fi and fantasy lovers.

The introduction of a new race, the Alarians, and the two realms in the story make it unique and original. The book is fast paced with a lot of action and magical creatures to hold your attention. The style of writing is descriptive, yet concise and crisp. All the characters are well defined, making it easy for readers to connect with them better. The author deftly weaves in the sub-plots, twists, turns and characters into the main theme. With this kind of theme, the story is fluid and will not disappoint readers.

I liked everything about the book. It is original, action packed, whimsical, adventurous with some great characters and excellent writing. The different realms give the story many layers and keep readers entertained. It is a book that holds a lot of excitement and surprises for readers.

Reviewed by Katelyn Hensel for Readers' Favorite

Turning 15 has never been a more stressful experience. Brigid, a 15-year-old, has just found out that she's the most recent in an ancient Celtic tribe. Instead of being a princess, or a famous artist, Brigid is the direct inheritor of magical powers of her ancestors. When something dark and deadly from their past threatens her, Brigid must learn to look deeper into herself than she ever imagined in order to save herself and her family. Circle of Nine: Beltany is a wonderful fantasy/contemporary blend from Valerie Biel!

This was a truly beautiful read. I enjoyed myself immensely during the entire ride and Circle of Nine: Beltany is sure to be sticking in my mind for weeks and months to come. I've already caught myself reminiscing during the quieter moments of work twice! Brigid starts off as your typical teenager. She's anxious about her birthday and popularity and all that jazz, and her world gets rocked when she finds out about her heritage. This is a true coming of age novel, exploring both Brigid as a young girl, and how she relates to her family and history.

Valerie Biel has a captivating, almost lyrical quality to her work that helps the flow and the smoothness of the piece wonderfully. You can just feel the words slide along as you read and it's a remarkable experience. I enjoyed her storytelling as much as I enjoyed the characters and the plot! Circle of Nine: Beltany is a wonderful blend of present and past, mixed with a healthy dose of Celtic mythology to captivate the brainiacs among us.

Reviewed by Helga Jacobs for Readers' Favorite

Hidden Among Yourselves by Bill Hiatt is Book 3 in the Spell Weaver series. Taliesin Weaver is faced with a number of difficulties, not the least of which is that a war god wants him dead. Added to that is finding out what is killing the people of Santa Brigida. In addition, he has to retrieve an ancient artifact from a realm it is impossible to enter. I was taken on a curious adventure through Hidden Among Yourselves by Bill Hiatt. He kept me captivated throughout most of Tal’s difficult situations with alluring yet exacting solutions. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and fantasies that enveloped Tal’s life, especially those caused by his unwillingness to forgive. Even so, Tal enchants with his ability to deal with each situation as he protects others and attempts to walk a straight path. Bill Hiatt writes excellently, with a great deal of action entwined with close relationships and betrayal, intense brawls and heartache keeping me wanting more. It is refreshing to read how so many different realms get tied together with magical beings such as dragons and demons, shape shifters and witches, and all the other beings from mythology, and how excellently they all connect in the end.

Hidden Among Yourselves by Bill Hiatt is written in a stylish and interesting manner, allowing readers new to his series to understand and enjoy each unexpected undertaking. I am impressed by the extremely well developed story line and the intense yet real characters, each with their own ambitions and dreams. I could relate to life situations as well as close relationships and the implications one's choices could bear. I enjoyed the life lessons entangled in awesome and imaginative journeys, from a magical teenager and mythological creatures to a murder spirit shadowing about. I was thoroughly captivated by the secrets, fantasies and mysteries of Bill Hiatt’s Hidden Among Yourselves. Undeniably an excellent fantasy!

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

Tyler likes to pretend he can fly. He's always had a thing about heights. As he turns 17, his sight is sharper, he's taller and there are strange lumps on his back. Shockingly, an incident during a skydiving activity causes wings to emerge from his back. His world turns upside down and he’s on the run from everyone. However, Tyler is not alone. There are others like him and they are all looking for him.

Evidently, the story’s premise is its main strength. J.L. Pawley’s First Flight (Generation Icarus, Volume 1) is a potent mix of intrigue, sci-fi, action and adventure. The first two chapters were somewhat slow, but the pace picked up afterwards, and so did my adrenaline. The plot has a great build-up from start to finish. I really enjoyed the part where Tyler, Miguel and Kestrel are trying to teach themselves how to fly. The other members of the Flight are easily likable. I do like the quiet, small statured Raven. She hardly speaks yet proved her worth to the group. The Flight convoy - Tyler/Hawk, Kestrel, Miguel/Condor, Tui, Falcon, Mark/Owl and Raven - have to survive each day with the Angelist cult, the sinister Evolutionary Corporation, the media as well as the public hot on their trail.

Pawley succeeded in making her book highly engaging; it certainly made me wish that I had wings. First Flight is geared towards YA readers, but the premise and plot are absolutely so well-developed that non YA readers should give this book a go. I’m eager to find out the fate of the winged teens in the second volume, Second Chance.

Reviewed by Savannah Edelen (Teen Reviewer) for Readers' Favorite

Current Impressions by Kelly Risser is an absolutely stunning book. The second book in the series follows Meara along on her journey as she starts a whole new life as a selkie with her father. She learns how to wield her new found powers and is working to fit into her new life. She misses her boyfriend whom she left behind in her human life, but she knows she will see him again when he comes to Scotland for an internship. That is when weird things start to happen. Her father’s clan is under attack and Evan is acting strange. He is becoming cruel to her and now all of the mysteries are beginning to add up. Will she be able to find out what is going on and save the people in her father’s clan? Or will something happen that she won’t be able to change? Read and find out.

I absolutely loved Current Impressions by Kelly Risser. It has definitely earned its five star rating. Not only did it do the job of keeping me interested, but the story also made its way into my heart. I felt as though I was right alongside with Meara, if not Meara herself. This story is so moving and makes you want to get up and do something with your life. To fight for what you believe in. Look out Hunger Games and Divergent, a new star is coming and will need a place at the top. I am anxiously waiting the next book in this wonderful tale.