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Recommend this book:
The Witchfinder’s Sacrifice
The Witches of Windsor Book 2
Rande Goodwin
2025 Finalist
360 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Witchfinder’s Sacrifice is a work of fiction by author Rande Goodwin in the fantasy, action, and adventure genres for young adult readers. A week after defeating the warlock Malleus Hodge, Nate Watson struggles to control the serpent-shaped bracelet’s immense powers now fused to his arm. As monstrous beings and dark magick emerge, it becomes evident that Hodge has returned, intent on igniting a modern witch hysteria. With friends and a mysterious ally, Nate fights to stop Hodge and his sinister pact, while grappling with loss, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of the serpent’s magic.
Rande Goodwin's vivid imagery and intense action craft this thrilling and immersive novel, filled with tension and dark enchantment. Nate Watson's struggle with the magickal bracelet created a compelling inner conflict, offering a brilliantly narrated character with plenty of flaws and temptations, as well as highlighting the seductive danger of power. The central theme of inciting fear was intensely penned with confident narrative control of the pacing and twists. The vivid descriptions of hellish monsters and magickal phenomena brought the supernatural elements to life in multisensory terror and glory. Balancing this with the emotional storyline is no mean feat, and the themes of loss and betrayal added emotional weight to the narrative in just the right places. The fast-paced action and constant sense of impending doom kept me engaged, eager to see how Nate and his friends would confront the resurrected evil. It felt like an ideal mix of intensity, drama, and plot intrigue for the target YA audience. Overall, The Witchfinder’s Sacrifice is a recommended read packed with suspense, fantasy, and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression of a world where darkness and heroism are intricately entwined.
The Witchfinder’s Sacrifice is a work of fiction by author Rande Goodwin in the fantasy, action, and adventure genres for young adult readers. A week after defeating the warlock Malleus Hodge, Nate Watson struggles to control the serpent-shaped bracelet’s immense powers now fused to his arm. As monstrous beings and dark magick emerge, it becomes evident that Hodge has returned, intent on igniting a modern witch hysteria. With friends and a mysterious ally, Nate fights to stop Hodge and his sinister pact, while grappling with loss, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of the serpent’s magic.
Rande Goodwin's vivid imagery and intense action craft this thrilling and immersive novel, filled with tension and dark enchantment. Nate Watson's struggle with the magickal bracelet created a compelling inner conflict, offering a brilliantly narrated character with plenty of flaws and temptations, as well as highlighting the seductive danger of power. The central theme of inciting fear was intensely penned with confident narrative control of the pacing and twists. The vivid descriptions of hellish monsters and magickal phenomena brought the supernatural elements to life in multisensory terror and glory. Balancing this with the emotional storyline is no mean feat, and the themes of loss and betrayal added emotional weight to the narrative in just the right places. The fast-paced action and constant sense of impending doom kept me engaged, eager to see how Nate and his friends would confront the resurrected evil. It felt like an ideal mix of intensity, drama, and plot intrigue for the target YA audience. Overall, The Witchfinder’s Sacrifice is a recommended read packed with suspense, fantasy, and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression of a world where darkness and heroism are intricately entwined.
Recommend this book:
The Debilis Rising
Keepers of the Rock
E. K. Wise
2025 Honorable Mention
586 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
The Debilis Rising is the first book in E. K. Wise's Keepers of the Rock series. Tessa Horton and Tú Chen are gifted kids who crave more in life, and when they are welcomed at the College of Geological Evolution, everything changes for them. This school is run by an ancient, shadowy organization known as the Keepers of the Rock, and the college trains future protectors of the Earth from deadly creatures and forces targeting humanity. The friendship between Tessa and Tú grows stronger as they understand the mysterious nature of their mission. But a potent threat looms ahead: the rise of the ancient evil Debilis, a dark force intent on destroying humanity. Can the keepers muster enough strength to stop the evil?
The Debilis Rising by E.K. Wise takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a richly woven narrative brimming with intrigue, magic, and conflict. Set across multiple contrasting locations, including Bangkok, Macau, and Carlsbad Caverns, the novel introduces characters like Rua-Jian Chu, a complex antihero with a shadowy past, and the Keepers, a secret society tasked with nominating and training extraordinary youths with the potential to safeguard the world. The dichotomy of intention—safeguarding vs. exploiting—is skillfully explored in this thrilling fantasy and fuels the question of what it means to wield knowledge responsibly. The detailed settings, from the grimy streets of Bangkok to the ancient, echoing formations of Carlsbad Caverns, resonate with readers, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil. The prose is exceptional, and the narrative is packed with action and conflict that grows at multiple levels. I enjoyed the characters, the expertly handled conflict, and the finely drawn settings.
The Debilis Rising is the first book in E. K. Wise's Keepers of the Rock series. Tessa Horton and Tú Chen are gifted kids who crave more in life, and when they are welcomed at the College of Geological Evolution, everything changes for them. This school is run by an ancient, shadowy organization known as the Keepers of the Rock, and the college trains future protectors of the Earth from deadly creatures and forces targeting humanity. The friendship between Tessa and Tú grows stronger as they understand the mysterious nature of their mission. But a potent threat looms ahead: the rise of the ancient evil Debilis, a dark force intent on destroying humanity. Can the keepers muster enough strength to stop the evil?
The Debilis Rising by E.K. Wise takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a richly woven narrative brimming with intrigue, magic, and conflict. Set across multiple contrasting locations, including Bangkok, Macau, and Carlsbad Caverns, the novel introduces characters like Rua-Jian Chu, a complex antihero with a shadowy past, and the Keepers, a secret society tasked with nominating and training extraordinary youths with the potential to safeguard the world. The dichotomy of intention—safeguarding vs. exploiting—is skillfully explored in this thrilling fantasy and fuels the question of what it means to wield knowledge responsibly. The detailed settings, from the grimy streets of Bangkok to the ancient, echoing formations of Carlsbad Caverns, resonate with readers, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil. The prose is exceptional, and the narrative is packed with action and conflict that grows at multiple levels. I enjoyed the characters, the expertly handled conflict, and the finely drawn settings.
Recommend this book:
Vizard
The Ember Files
Shari Marshall
2025 Bronze Medal
196 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Chinazo Anozie for Readers' Favorite
In Shari Marshall’s world of magic, Juniper Berry, a 13-year-old, lives with her parents, who love her and teach her how to hone her powers. However, one fateful night, Juniper’s world comes crashing down when unknown assailants kill her parents. Juniper’s ability to see visions and her vision of the imminent attack enabled her parents to hide her from the attackers. Alone and an orphan, Juniper remembers her parents’ instructions on using her powers and begins to search for answers and, possibly, revenge. She meets friends and foes, encounters friendships, betrayal, and loss, and through it all, the once sweet and protected Juniper Berry adapts and evolves into Rye, a master of disguises. Join Juniper on her journey in Shari Marshall’s Vizard: An Ember Files Side Story.
Vizard by Shari Marshall is part of the Ember Files series. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but this didn’t detract from my reading pleasure. It is a testament to the author’s superb writing skills that I could follow the plot without any problems and am indeed intrigued enough to now delve into the whole series. I enjoyed following Juniper as she grew from her teens into adulthood and everything she went through. I ached with her in times of sorrow and was happy when she found friends who were as good as family. A combination of romance, action, and drama, all wrapped up in a YA fantasy, makes Vizard an immensely compelling read.
In Shari Marshall’s world of magic, Juniper Berry, a 13-year-old, lives with her parents, who love her and teach her how to hone her powers. However, one fateful night, Juniper’s world comes crashing down when unknown assailants kill her parents. Juniper’s ability to see visions and her vision of the imminent attack enabled her parents to hide her from the attackers. Alone and an orphan, Juniper remembers her parents’ instructions on using her powers and begins to search for answers and, possibly, revenge. She meets friends and foes, encounters friendships, betrayal, and loss, and through it all, the once sweet and protected Juniper Berry adapts and evolves into Rye, a master of disguises. Join Juniper on her journey in Shari Marshall’s Vizard: An Ember Files Side Story.
Vizard by Shari Marshall is part of the Ember Files series. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but this didn’t detract from my reading pleasure. It is a testament to the author’s superb writing skills that I could follow the plot without any problems and am indeed intrigued enough to now delve into the whole series. I enjoyed following Juniper as she grew from her teens into adulthood and everything she went through. I ached with her in times of sorrow and was happy when she found friends who were as good as family. A combination of romance, action, and drama, all wrapped up in a YA fantasy, makes Vizard an immensely compelling read.
Recommend this book:
Nothing Ever Happens on Main Street
Daren Hatfield
2025 Silver Medal
274 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite
“Life isn’t necessarily about what happens to you but rather who happens to you.” That is true, and Daren Hatfield's Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street is a reminder that events do not fashion themselves; people create them through their actions. Young Parker Riley is a 13-year-old boy growing up in the small town of Harding Springs in 1910—a place where nothing interesting ever seems to happen. However, this is by design, thanks to Edison Doyle, the town eccentric and a master of time. When summer arrives, Parker witnesses an event that never occurs. Along with his newfound friends, Miss Cora Swanson and her young daughter Cassandra, Parker begins a journey to uncover the secrets and mysteries surrounding Edison Doyle, discovering that sometimes the best thing that can happen in life is nothing at all.
Delightful and spellbinding, Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street by Daren Hatfield is an adventure tale crafted for young adults with Ray Bradbury vibes. While different and original, this novel compares favorably with Something Wicked This Way Comes. The plot focuses on a clever mystery and the young protagonist's role in it. However, there is much more to this story as themes of growth (for young and old alike) and the choice between greed and self-sacrifice are vital components. A superb cast of lovable characters, which include Tricksy the horse and the kind of villains you boo, enhances the wondrous narrative. Deeply immersive, thanks partly to the author's skillful use of terminology, and with a pleasant overall pace, Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street is a beguiling work. I recommend this book without hesitation.
“Life isn’t necessarily about what happens to you but rather who happens to you.” That is true, and Daren Hatfield's Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street is a reminder that events do not fashion themselves; people create them through their actions. Young Parker Riley is a 13-year-old boy growing up in the small town of Harding Springs in 1910—a place where nothing interesting ever seems to happen. However, this is by design, thanks to Edison Doyle, the town eccentric and a master of time. When summer arrives, Parker witnesses an event that never occurs. Along with his newfound friends, Miss Cora Swanson and her young daughter Cassandra, Parker begins a journey to uncover the secrets and mysteries surrounding Edison Doyle, discovering that sometimes the best thing that can happen in life is nothing at all.
Delightful and spellbinding, Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street by Daren Hatfield is an adventure tale crafted for young adults with Ray Bradbury vibes. While different and original, this novel compares favorably with Something Wicked This Way Comes. The plot focuses on a clever mystery and the young protagonist's role in it. However, there is much more to this story as themes of growth (for young and old alike) and the choice between greed and self-sacrifice are vital components. A superb cast of lovable characters, which include Tricksy the horse and the kind of villains you boo, enhances the wondrous narrative. Deeply immersive, thanks partly to the author's skillful use of terminology, and with a pleasant overall pace, Nothing Ever Happens On Main Street is a beguiling work. I recommend this book without hesitation.
Recommend this book:
Raven's Cry
Orphans Book 1
Christian A. Brown
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Raven's Cry by Christian A. Brown is a young adult horror novel, the first in the Orphans series. Set in a dark, urban fantasy world, it follows four witches, known as the Aspects, who must defend Earth against the ancient, eldritch Outer Gods. As the impending Great War threatens humanity, the Aspects must battle not only these cosmic horrors but also their own inner demons. With complex characters to work with and against like Gabriel Mothmann and his power-hungry sister Octavia, the story weaves Indigenous myths and supernatural horror into a thrilling narrative.
Author Christian A. Brown masterfully combines the elements of classic Lovecraftian cosmic horror with a sharp YA urban fantasy pace, creating a dark, immersive world with new frights lurking at every turn of the page. The vivid descriptions are packed with atmosphere to suit the haunting tone, and there’s an interesting mix of contemporary urban situations layered with baroque, gothic undertones that enhance the emotion of every scene. Brown’s characters are just as complex and multi-layered as his story world, making their struggles with both external and internal forces compelling as we get to know each Aspect through distinct dialogue choices and some heartfelt interactions. I was also really impressed with the inclusion and tactful exploration of Indigenous myths alongside cosmic horror, which added originality and cultural richness, but never felt overdone or gimmicky. Overall, Raven's Cry is a brilliant start to a promising new fantasy series that I’d certainly recommend.
Raven's Cry by Christian A. Brown is a young adult horror novel, the first in the Orphans series. Set in a dark, urban fantasy world, it follows four witches, known as the Aspects, who must defend Earth against the ancient, eldritch Outer Gods. As the impending Great War threatens humanity, the Aspects must battle not only these cosmic horrors but also their own inner demons. With complex characters to work with and against like Gabriel Mothmann and his power-hungry sister Octavia, the story weaves Indigenous myths and supernatural horror into a thrilling narrative.
Author Christian A. Brown masterfully combines the elements of classic Lovecraftian cosmic horror with a sharp YA urban fantasy pace, creating a dark, immersive world with new frights lurking at every turn of the page. The vivid descriptions are packed with atmosphere to suit the haunting tone, and there’s an interesting mix of contemporary urban situations layered with baroque, gothic undertones that enhance the emotion of every scene. Brown’s characters are just as complex and multi-layered as his story world, making their struggles with both external and internal forces compelling as we get to know each Aspect through distinct dialogue choices and some heartfelt interactions. I was also really impressed with the inclusion and tactful exploration of Indigenous myths alongside cosmic horror, which added originality and cultural richness, but never felt overdone or gimmicky. Overall, Raven's Cry is a brilliant start to a promising new fantasy series that I’d certainly recommend.
Recommend this book:
The Call of the Dreamwalkers
Rafaele Désiré
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Call of the Dreamwalkers is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres. It is aimed at the young adult reading audience but can also be enjoyed by mature middle-grade and adult readers alike. Penned by author Rafaele Désiré, we follow our protagonist, Ana, a shy ninth-grader whose dreams of fitting in are shattered when her only friend, Heloise, falls into a coma after a strange bus accident. Ana's life takes a dark turn until a fateful dream introduces her to Arcadion, a mysterious light being who reveals the existence of malevolent entities called Mind Worms that prey on vulnerable young minds. Ana discovers her destiny as a Virtue, tasked with fighting against these dark forces. To save Heloise, her school, and herself, Ana must rally her classmates to face their deepest fears and confront the hideous Mind Worms in a battle for their souls.
Author Rafaele Désiré masterfully combines elements of mystery, friendship, and supernatural encounters to craft a captivating narrative that is sure to have readers engaged from start to finish. The concept of dreamwalking and the existence of the Mind Worms add a unique and intriguing twist to the plot, building a sense of urgency and suspense through some excellent cinematic descriptions and atmospheric lexis. One of the features which impressed me the most was the thought put into exploring the psyche of young minds, exposing their fears and vulnerabilities while emphasizing the power of unity and inner strength to overcome darkness. Overall, The Call of the Dreamwalkers is a thrilling adventure that explores the depths of friendship, self-discovery, and the battle between good and evil, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to YA fantasy fans everywhere.
The Call of the Dreamwalkers is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres. It is aimed at the young adult reading audience but can also be enjoyed by mature middle-grade and adult readers alike. Penned by author Rafaele Désiré, we follow our protagonist, Ana, a shy ninth-grader whose dreams of fitting in are shattered when her only friend, Heloise, falls into a coma after a strange bus accident. Ana's life takes a dark turn until a fateful dream introduces her to Arcadion, a mysterious light being who reveals the existence of malevolent entities called Mind Worms that prey on vulnerable young minds. Ana discovers her destiny as a Virtue, tasked with fighting against these dark forces. To save Heloise, her school, and herself, Ana must rally her classmates to face their deepest fears and confront the hideous Mind Worms in a battle for their souls.
Author Rafaele Désiré masterfully combines elements of mystery, friendship, and supernatural encounters to craft a captivating narrative that is sure to have readers engaged from start to finish. The concept of dreamwalking and the existence of the Mind Worms add a unique and intriguing twist to the plot, building a sense of urgency and suspense through some excellent cinematic descriptions and atmospheric lexis. One of the features which impressed me the most was the thought put into exploring the psyche of young minds, exposing their fears and vulnerabilities while emphasizing the power of unity and inner strength to overcome darkness. Overall, The Call of the Dreamwalkers is a thrilling adventure that explores the depths of friendship, self-discovery, and the battle between good and evil, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to YA fantasy fans everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Something About Alexa
Leanne Hockley
2024 Honorable Mention
385 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Something About Alexa by Leanne Hockley is a young adult paranormal novel with a twist. Our story begins in Forks, Washington, where seventeen-year-old Jayden James finds the woods behind his home an escape from the bully in town and his alcoholic mother. However, his life took an exciting turn when he met Alexa, a newcomer to their little town and his high school. There was an instant attraction and a camaraderie that they both enjoyed. However, his little haven was disturbed when bodies started turning up in the woods. Before he knew it, everyone was a suspect, and no one was safe. Why was everything suddenly going to hell in the little town of Forks? Did Alexa have anything to do with it? What was really happening in Forks?
I wish Twilight was written as well as Something About Alexa. Author Leanne Hockley created a masterpiece! The mystery, the suspense, and the overall feel of the story were intriguing. I was lost in the pages and Jayden's journey. The mystery behind his episodes, his confusion, and the way he handled the whole progression of the plot was great. I wasn’t a big fan of Alexa in the beginning, but I trusted the author because I could feel she had big plans with this story. The deaths were portrayed with the kind of suspense I expected, but Leanne still found many ways to surprise me. The pace was fast, the action was always present, and there was never a moment when I felt disconnected from the story or the characters. The descriptions were vivid, the story was well-written, and the almost captivating narrative made sure I was right next to Jayden until the end. The ending was incredible. I highly recommend this novel!
Something About Alexa by Leanne Hockley is a young adult paranormal novel with a twist. Our story begins in Forks, Washington, where seventeen-year-old Jayden James finds the woods behind his home an escape from the bully in town and his alcoholic mother. However, his life took an exciting turn when he met Alexa, a newcomer to their little town and his high school. There was an instant attraction and a camaraderie that they both enjoyed. However, his little haven was disturbed when bodies started turning up in the woods. Before he knew it, everyone was a suspect, and no one was safe. Why was everything suddenly going to hell in the little town of Forks? Did Alexa have anything to do with it? What was really happening in Forks?
I wish Twilight was written as well as Something About Alexa. Author Leanne Hockley created a masterpiece! The mystery, the suspense, and the overall feel of the story were intriguing. I was lost in the pages and Jayden's journey. The mystery behind his episodes, his confusion, and the way he handled the whole progression of the plot was great. I wasn’t a big fan of Alexa in the beginning, but I trusted the author because I could feel she had big plans with this story. The deaths were portrayed with the kind of suspense I expected, but Leanne still found many ways to surprise me. The pace was fast, the action was always present, and there was never a moment when I felt disconnected from the story or the characters. The descriptions were vivid, the story was well-written, and the almost captivating narrative made sure I was right next to Jayden until the end. The ending was incredible. I highly recommend this novel!
Recommend this book:
Nightmare Beauty
A Nightmare in Elmridge, Book 1
Ileen Martin
2024 Bronze Medal
322 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Nightmare Beauty is a work of fiction in the paranormal adventure, fantasy, and action subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Nightmare in Elmridge series. The work is intended for young adult readers but can also be enjoyed by adults. Penned by author Ileen Martin, the plot follows sixteen-year-old Belle Montague as she grapples with her haunting family history and a recent tragedy that leaves blood on her hands. Forced to leave everything behind, Belle moves in with her mysterious aunt in Elmridge, an elite city where she encounters a new set of challenges. From navigating a glitzy high school dominated by the Princess Posse to uncovering secrets about her past with the help of her fantasy-guy-come-true, Liam Rawlins, Belle must unravel the mysteries before it's too late. As she delves deeper into her supernatural family history, Belle finds herself entangled in a web of danger, romance, and dark secrets that threaten to consume her.
Author Ileen Martin has crafted a charming and enjoyable YA novel that perfectly balances elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural to create a compelling narrative that hooks readers from the very first page. Belle's journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity is both relatable and empowering, making her a protagonist that readers will root for until the end. I loved the close narration and her dialogue and attitude, shaped by the events around her as she grows and learns to cope with the new surprises in store. The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, keeps readers guessing with well-laid clues and some really satisfying reveals later on. The vividly depicted setting of Elmridge goes beyond the cinematic to realize a fully multisensory immersion into the story world. Overall, Nightmare Beauty is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction who enjoy a mix of suspense, romance, and paranormal intrigue, and I can’t wait to see what the series has in store next.
Nightmare Beauty is a work of fiction in the paranormal adventure, fantasy, and action subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Nightmare in Elmridge series. The work is intended for young adult readers but can also be enjoyed by adults. Penned by author Ileen Martin, the plot follows sixteen-year-old Belle Montague as she grapples with her haunting family history and a recent tragedy that leaves blood on her hands. Forced to leave everything behind, Belle moves in with her mysterious aunt in Elmridge, an elite city where she encounters a new set of challenges. From navigating a glitzy high school dominated by the Princess Posse to uncovering secrets about her past with the help of her fantasy-guy-come-true, Liam Rawlins, Belle must unravel the mysteries before it's too late. As she delves deeper into her supernatural family history, Belle finds herself entangled in a web of danger, romance, and dark secrets that threaten to consume her.
Author Ileen Martin has crafted a charming and enjoyable YA novel that perfectly balances elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural to create a compelling narrative that hooks readers from the very first page. Belle's journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity is both relatable and empowering, making her a protagonist that readers will root for until the end. I loved the close narration and her dialogue and attitude, shaped by the events around her as she grows and learns to cope with the new surprises in store. The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, keeps readers guessing with well-laid clues and some really satisfying reveals later on. The vividly depicted setting of Elmridge goes beyond the cinematic to realize a fully multisensory immersion into the story world. Overall, Nightmare Beauty is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction who enjoy a mix of suspense, romance, and paranormal intrigue, and I can’t wait to see what the series has in store next.
Recommend this book:
Amoura Awakened
Meg Kramer
2024 Silver Medal
342 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Jaqueline Neves for Readers' Favorite
In Meg Kramer's captivating debut YA urban fantasy, Amoura Awakened, readers are invited into a world where magic intertwines with the struggles of adolescence. Protagonist Amoura Renly, far from ordinary, grapples with her newfound magical abilities after a violent encounter with a bully. Seeking solace and understanding, she enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined in San Francisco, only to find herself entangled in a society that fears and suppresses magical abnormalities. As Amoura delves into the mysteries surrounding her magical connection, she unravels dark secrets that threaten her existence. The narrative expertly weaves together elements of friendship, danger, and self-discovery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Meg Kramer's writing in Amoura Awakened is akin to an enchanting tapestry, weaving together the ordinary and the magical with mesmerizing finesse. The plot gracefully unfurls, maintaining an engaging pace that expertly navigates moments of heightened tension and contemplative introspection. The action sequences are not just described; they burst forth vividly, pulling readers into the enchanting realm where witches and humans coexist. Kramer's characters are not merely players in the narrative; they are intricately crafted individuals, each driven by their desires and grappling with insecurities, rendering them both relatable and undeniably compelling. Throughout Amoura Awakened, Kramer subtly threads themes of identity and acceptance, infusing the narrative with a profound depth that resonates with readers. The exploration of these themes adds layers to the story, elevating it beyond a mere magical fantasy. In this tale of friendship, danger, and self-discovery, the author skillfully navigates the complexities of human emotions and the magical world they inhabit. As I delved into the pages, I found myself immersed in a world that challenges perceptions and tugs at the heartstrings.
In Meg Kramer's captivating debut YA urban fantasy, Amoura Awakened, readers are invited into a world where magic intertwines with the struggles of adolescence. Protagonist Amoura Renly, far from ordinary, grapples with her newfound magical abilities after a violent encounter with a bully. Seeking solace and understanding, she enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined in San Francisco, only to find herself entangled in a society that fears and suppresses magical abnormalities. As Amoura delves into the mysteries surrounding her magical connection, she unravels dark secrets that threaten her existence. The narrative expertly weaves together elements of friendship, danger, and self-discovery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Meg Kramer's writing in Amoura Awakened is akin to an enchanting tapestry, weaving together the ordinary and the magical with mesmerizing finesse. The plot gracefully unfurls, maintaining an engaging pace that expertly navigates moments of heightened tension and contemplative introspection. The action sequences are not just described; they burst forth vividly, pulling readers into the enchanting realm where witches and humans coexist. Kramer's characters are not merely players in the narrative; they are intricately crafted individuals, each driven by their desires and grappling with insecurities, rendering them both relatable and undeniably compelling. Throughout Amoura Awakened, Kramer subtly threads themes of identity and acceptance, infusing the narrative with a profound depth that resonates with readers. The exploration of these themes adds layers to the story, elevating it beyond a mere magical fantasy. In this tale of friendship, danger, and self-discovery, the author skillfully navigates the complexities of human emotions and the magical world they inhabit. As I delved into the pages, I found myself immersed in a world that challenges perceptions and tugs at the heartstrings.
Recommend this book:
The Younglings
Mayhem & Magic
Helena M Craggs
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
The Younglings: Mayhem & Magic by Helena M. Craggs follows Quinn Carter and his group of supernatural friends as they try to not only navigate life as young adults but also as supernatural beings. Quinn being half human and half demon is always fighting the darker side of his nature but having a beautiful half-angel at his side makes it a lot easier to manage. If only it were that easy to manage every other issue that seems to arise. Can Quinn conquer his dark side while helping the people he cares most about?
I really loved how the author decided to throw almost every supernatural being into this one group of friends. It felt like not only were they individually different based on the type of supernatural creatures they were but also based on their personalities. Their ‘species,’ for lack of a better word, is almost a reflection of who they are and we see how they grow and overcome issues relating to their specific abilities and situations. I also love how it made the found family concept in this story even better as they all come from completely different backgrounds. The Younglings by Helena M. Craggs is so well written and has really good world-building. The pacing is also just right, easing you into the dynamics of the characters before thrusting you into the real action. The best part of all was the twists and turns this story took; some I could almost predict but others caught me completely off guard, which I really enjoyed. Overall, this was such a good book and I would definitely recommend it.
The Younglings: Mayhem & Magic by Helena M. Craggs follows Quinn Carter and his group of supernatural friends as they try to not only navigate life as young adults but also as supernatural beings. Quinn being half human and half demon is always fighting the darker side of his nature but having a beautiful half-angel at his side makes it a lot easier to manage. If only it were that easy to manage every other issue that seems to arise. Can Quinn conquer his dark side while helping the people he cares most about?
I really loved how the author decided to throw almost every supernatural being into this one group of friends. It felt like not only were they individually different based on the type of supernatural creatures they were but also based on their personalities. Their ‘species,’ for lack of a better word, is almost a reflection of who they are and we see how they grow and overcome issues relating to their specific abilities and situations. I also love how it made the found family concept in this story even better as they all come from completely different backgrounds. The Younglings by Helena M. Craggs is so well written and has really good world-building. The pacing is also just right, easing you into the dynamics of the characters before thrusting you into the real action. The best part of all was the twists and turns this story took; some I could almost predict but others caught me completely off guard, which I really enjoyed. Overall, this was such a good book and I would definitely recommend it.
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