Reviewed by Samantha Gregory for Readers' Favorite

Vampyrian Gateway by Richard C. Christensen is the story of teen twins Peter and Andie, who have the unusual job of dealing with otherworldly creatures and their problems. Gifted with low-level abilities, the teens help ghosts, vampires, and other creatures who come their way. Their latest job involves looking after a toddler vampire. Peter is against the job, knowing that vampires mean trouble. They have no idea how much trouble though as the kid is soon kidnapped and the twins are pulled into a mystery. An entire world of vampires is in danger and it is up to Peter and Andie to save them. Will they succeed?

Richard C. Christensen has written an entertaining story with Vampyrian Gateway. I loved the main characters of Peter and Andie. They are well written and I love the humor. Peter and Andie have stressful jobs but they seem to take it all in their stride. The story pulled me in from the start and I enjoyed reading it. It was an unusual story but in a good way. I loved the way the teens handled the situation and did their best to do what was right. Peter and Andie's actions are heroic, even when they don't feel it. The dialogue between the two was fast-paced and fun, making them really seem like siblings. It grounded the story in reality even when they were dealing with creatures from another world. This made the story more believable and enjoyable. I think this book would appeal to young adult urban fantasy fans. The characters are relatable and fun. I would definitely recommend it.

Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite

In Ruthless Pamela Jean by Carol D. Mitchell, Pamela Jean Metcalf’s appearance made her the target of relentless bullying as far back as she could remember. Let down by her mother who was either too ignorant or weak to stop the continuous torture, Pamela decided she could only rely on herself. At the age of eight, Pamela would discover a fictional character by the name of Iceberg Slim and that would change her perspective on everything. Although the violence and taunts continued, Pamela had already turned her anger inward so nothing or nobody could hurt her again. By the time Pamela was seventeen and set ablaze inside a tunnel, she had already become the emotionally hardened woman who was determined to make a success of her life. Pamela would turn her fury into determination to survive and thrive against any odds. Follow her journey as Pamela rises like a phoenix from the ashes to become the ruthless head of P.J. Corporation, an escort agency, where men would become a lucrative commodity in Pamela’s newfound success and power would also become her weapon to finally get her revenge on those who celebrated in her pain and sadness. Welcome to the dark side of the male escort business, where blackmail, sex tapes, betrayal, and revenge are just a normal day in the office.

The contents of Ruthless Pamela Jean by Carol D. Mitchell are extremely realistic and, at times, very emotional to read. I thought Pamela was a tremendously complex character with so many complicated layers to her personality. Her values and morals were completely distorted, a result of not dealing with her childhood traumas. On one hand, she wanted to be the savior for the abused and neglected but, on the other hand, she was a callous and ruthless businesswoman with no sense of remorse or empathy. Her relationship with her mother was beautiful and they shared some very heartwarming moments together. Pamela never held any resentment toward her mother or held her character flaws against her, which was an extremely admirable characteristic. Pamela could also be very tender and this was visible in her relationships with Marla and Jonah. The tunnel scene was brutal but Pamela's reaction was really empowering to anyone who has become the victim of bullying. I also found Pamela's verbal reaction toward her psychiatrist very witty and sharp and this brought a welcome break from the horror of her attack. The dialogue was exceptional and truly authentic for the personalities of the characters. The scene at the end between Marla and Pamela was particularly poignant and emotionally powerful. There are also important life lessons throughout the storyline that highlight the importance of dealing with any childhood trauma, embracing your uniqueness, and being mindful that the need for power and success should not cloud your judgment or morals.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Kill Karma by Kelly L. Marsh is the first book in the Agents of Karma series. Pepper has her future set out, starting with graduation and freedom from probation. Her trouble-making past landed her in difficulty, but she's put her skills to better use by creating a karma-for-hire business that allows her to dispense justice (in secret) to those that deserve punishment. She leads a double existence split between a picture-perfect life and a fight for justice through her business. When her neighbor gathers evidence of her extracurricular hours, Pepper's only choice is to take the job he offers, even if it's to investigate his mother who he believes is possessed by a demon. She's shocked to discover the truth about the past, which draws her deeper into a hellish conspiracy unfolding in her small town with her neighbors falling prey to demonic possession. The upcoming Hallows' Eve brings forth an evil plot to release a Syndicate from hell onto Earth. Pepper uncovers shocking secrets about her own past along with the key to stopping demons from being released, and the chance to save everyone she loves. The story does make room for romance when she meets Jhi and together they embark on this hellish adventure with all the chemistry that generates.

Kill Karma sets up a significant commentary about how justice in society tends to slip by and the desire for retribution steps in. It reflects Pepper's personal quest (and her secret job) to dish out karma and ensure that justice is served. The story is poignant, timely, real, and gritty in the way it manifests in a world being slowly invaded by demons. The strong writing is full of personality from vivid descriptions and a fun tone woven around the attitude of Pepper. Specific word choices add to the originality of the writing and help to create an instantly likable main character. The story evolves quickly as the world spirals and pulls Pepper further into a hellish reality brought to life through dark imagery, with grotesque re-enactments and a disturbing museum. Marsh introduces a variety of creatures including Leviathan, demons, hounds of hell, vampires, and gargoyles into the world, among elements such as possession, soul brokers, and contracts. Marsh delivers a blend of suspense, action, dark imagery, and adventure which brings to life a story that's addictive, fast-paced, and cleverly written.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

The Rise of the Raidin by Susan L. Markloff is the first book in the Human-Born Era series. Just over a year ago, Jennifer Monroe was an average teenage girl. Now she's living a secret life as a hybrid with abilities that allow her to slay dragons alongside her newfound allies. During the day, she puts on the act of a normal teenager where she focuses on school, worries about test scores, and hangs out with her friends, but at night she trains under her new friends to hunt dragons. She's managed to keep her two lives separate until a dragon crashes into her normal life with an army bent on finding her. Jennifer soon uncovers a secret behind her own origins that comes with a surprising revelation.

The crashing of one world into the other pushes her to explore who she is when both sides of herself merge. The blending of her two lives also delivers drama, humor, and action as it allows Jennifer to discover what life she's willing to fight for and creates tension in her relationships with her friends as they see this new side of her. The clash of her two lives provides chaos that makes her want to go back to being a normal, boring girl but also allows her to see the power and strength this new life offers. The aesthetic that Susan L. Markloff has created stems from a vivid assortment of characters which includes two grovix creatures, a werewolf, two strong personalities, and comic relief. The characters are uniquely fitted to the world such as Archer who has a canine structure to his face with big ears and weight that rivals a lion's, and Blaze who has a pristine white coat, a picture-perfect mane, and a presence that commands attention. Markloff captures these unique characters through their appearances, attitudes, and interactions with Jennifer. The dragon sketches add to the reality of the world and the general feel of the story. The Rise of the Raidin delivers an original take on dragons and dragon slayers with a secret world, a double life, coming-of-age discovery, and action-packed fight scenes.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

From Brick & Darkness is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy and adventure subgenres. It is aimed at young adult readers and was penned by author J. L. Sullivan. The book follows Bax, a young man bored with his life who accepts the offer of a ring that was meant for his estranged father. When the ring speaks to him in his dreams, Bax unleashes the powerful djinn inside it in an attempt to make his wildest dreams come true. Unfortunately, the djinn inside the ring uses violence and manipulation to get Bax what he wants, leaving Bax in a desperate race to rid himself of his new patron before destruction reaches those he cares about most.

I absolutely adored the blend of mythologies, fables, and occult ideas that author J. L. Sullivan mixed together to create this original world and the story within it. This book quickly establishes itself as a fresh take on classic ideas with its own original twists and interpretations, and the resulting product is a roller coaster of an adventure that hooks the reader from page one and refuses to let go. Bax is a stunningly realized protagonist with the flaws of youth that many of us will recognize and even relate to. He leaps off the page with descriptive prose and dialogue, providing the reader with a perfect guide to the terrifying and dynamic narrative that From Brick & Darkness embarks on. An outstanding and original take on some classic and well-tried ideas, I recommend this book to all.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Haunted Purse is a young adult paranormal mystery novel written by Kimberly Baer. As they waited at the counter for Toni to make her purchase at the thrift store, Libby spied a flash of blue denim sticking out of a cardboard box on a counter. She was stunned to discover it was a jeans purse, complete with patch pockets on the back. The retro qualities of the purse were enticing, and she held her breath as she asked the clerk for the price. Libby couldn’t wait to transfer her stuff to her new purse, which was big, almost a tote bag, and that’s how Libby discovered her purse was very peculiar. The physics report she had stashed in it disappeared, something she discovered when she went to turn it in to her teacher. Frantically, Libby emptied out every compartment and pocket onto Ms. Eckhart’s desk and still no report. Then, at the end of class, Libby found the report, exactly where she had put it hours before. Ms. Eckhart agreed not to dock her grade but warned her not to try handing in something late again. Other things seemed to disappear in that purse as well. Toni suggested Libby return the errant and unpredictable purse to the thrift store, but Libby was reluctant to do so. It was her nicest possession, after all, and she had the oddest feeling the purse was trying to tell her something.

Kimberly Baer’s The Haunted Purse features a fifteen-year-old protagonist who’s had to grow up way too fast. Libby’s been effectively deserted by her mom who had her when she was only fourteen years old, and she’s been so careful to not let anyone know she’s been home alone for over a year now -- not even her best friend knows. Libby knows what the foster care system does with kids in her situation, and she knows how to take care of herself. Libby has plans. She’s academically gifted and is determined not to be a teenage mom like her mother and grandmother. Libby’s also curious and cannot resist the challenge of her new purse as it seems to be communicating with her. Who was the girl whose photograph appears in the purse one day, and what happened to her? Baer’s heroine is courageous and determined, and watching as she tackles the mystery of the missing girl from twenty years ago is grand fun. The plot is original, ramping up the suspense terrifically, and the characters are unforgettable. The Haunted Purse is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Rolanda Lyles for Readers' Favorite

Stephan F. Rogers’s Twin Torn is an action-packed young adult fantasy story about Kayala, a prized human pet to the queen Chanovalle, who escapes captivity only to be replaced by her twin, Inalia. The twins were unaware of each other’s existence and are complete opposites. Kayala is a fighter and is tough both mentally and physically. Her sister, Inalia, is very sensitive and isn’t as tough as Kayala. The Queen sends her most trusted guard on a mission and instructs her to take her pet, Kayala, with her. While on their trip, Kayala escapes. Kayala meets Ash, a vampire-like person that doesn’t know who he is, and they develop trust. Ash, in an effort to discover who he is, finds Twister and his master, Jinx, but their meeting only brings more questions. Kayala discovers that her sister has been found by the Queen’s guards and they have taken her into captivity. Kayala begs for the help of Ash and his new group of friends with exceptional gifts to aid in her sister's rescue. The Queen has special plans for her special pet. Will the team be able to arrive in time to save Inalia before the Queen executes her plans?

Stephan F. Rogers’s Twin Torn is masterfully written so that the reader can have a vantage point from all the characters’ points of view. Twin Torn is written almost like watching a movie and the focus of the scenes gives more details about the different characters. Initially, it took me a while to get used to jumping between the different characters' viewpoints, but after completing the story, I did find that Stephan’s execution was perfect for the story; the twins' unfortunate switch, Ash's discovery of who he was before his memory loss, Jinx's path to becoming the being that she was, and queen Chanovalle, and her hunger for revenge and power. Twin Torn is full of action, adventure, magic, fantastic creatures, and enough twists and turns to keep you excited and hungry for more. The way the story ends leads me to believe (or hope) that there will be a sequel, and I anxiously await what exciting adventures Ash, the twins, and his friends will journey on next.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Garkain: Book One of The Uluru Legacy by Anna J. Walner is an exciting urban fantasy novel that bends the genres and breaks the rules. The story opens with lead character Amelia musing on a flight back to the States about wanting to delete her former life. A great hook. She reviews recent events in her life, and this is how we are introduced to this compelling character and this exceptionally engaging story. Though some of the themes will be familiar to you--vampire and werewolf--you will be completely surprised in a very good way. Amelia's backstory is fascinating. Having been left at a Houston hospital 25 years earlier, she grew up searching for her biological family. Then she receives an odd text saying that it was time for her to "come home", and that The Colony needed her. The Colony? Things get even more intriguing, and this is what Walner does best. She builds intrigue, mystery, and suspense--first with the story and plot, then the characters, then the execution. She does this in a way that entices the audience without giving too much away all at once.

Just when you think the story is all set, another layer is peeled back, like the bloodlines Amelia comes from--Garkain on her mother's side, and Larougo on her father's. These are two separate secret societies, one vampire, the other werewolf. At birth, she was given away, not killed, and now she's being summoned home for a reason. I do like the fully-fleshed-out character of Amelia, and how she handles these mind-blowing revelations. You feel her character growth along with her, not just as a bystander reading a story. Walner's style draws you in and holds you through the plotlines. I like that the characters aren't always clear-cut, and the way the author changes the legendary werewolf and vampire trope. Roan is a great character, and I like the chemistry between him and Amelia. For a fresh, clever, dynamic drama that will leave you wanting more, Garkain: Book One of The Uluru Legacy by Anna J. Walner is a must-read. Fans of Twilight and Underworld will love this book.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Russian Roulette by May Freighter is book one of the Helena Hawthorn series. Helena Hawthorn is excited to embark on the next chapter of her life, moving out of her mum and stepdad's house and in with her two best friends for an easier commute to college. Along with her guardian angel, Michael, watching over her, nothing can go wrong, or so she thought. When Michael takes her to the Angel Realm, she ends up connecting her soul to that of Lucious, a vampire on the run, avoiding his trail and fate. Her life takes a more complicated turn when she crosses path with the vampire, who drags her into the middle of his world. Not knowing who trust, and having to rely on herself, Helena fights against the vampires who want to control her.

I couldn't put it down! Every chapter left me wanting more! This is best suited for readers that love darker themes. The world that Helena ends up in is dark and twisted, springing off the decisions she makes to save her friend. Helplessness is a large theme in the novel, with the further Helena gets into the vampire world, the more nerve wrecking and violent it becomes. May Freighter gives hope and light to even the darkest of moments, with a heroine that is strong willed and feisty. Helena doesn't always make the best decisions, but she owns up to that and she keeps fighting back. A lot of Helena's experiences are stifling and oppressive, very nightmarish, but I believe she has the strength to fight against the vampires' system. It's clear her story is just beginning. Russian Roulette is dark, addictive, with an air of mystery, and a unique take on fate. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

Reviewed by Cheryl Schopen for Readers' Favorite

In Anchored by Bridget E. Baker, we are first introduced to Alora and her world called Terra. Her special ability is referred to as Lifting, which is a power that no other woman on Terra has. She has hidden her ability her entire life because the people who care for her have insisted that it would be dangerous if others found out. Then, we realize that Terra and her life in this world are all in her dreams. She and her brother, Jesse, live on Earth and have been running from their own problems. Alora has three rules that she lives by: take care of her brother, avoid being noticed, and don’t trust anyone. But when her two worlds begin collapsing into one another, her rules are getting harder and harder to follow.

Wow. Just wow. I had a feeling this book would be good, but I was not prepared to be so drawn into this world that it would be so hard to leave it. First, the cover is beyond beautiful. I can’t get enough of it. Second, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time: not just the middle or the end, but literally from the first page to the last page. The two very different worlds are such a mystery throughout the story, and you find yourself trying to figure it all out right along with Alora, which was great fun! Then you have the brilliantly written characters and their relationships with each other. It felt so completely real. I never once questioned the authenticity of it. And the best part of it was the non-stop, action-packed, exciting plot. All I can say is, Bridget E. Baker, where have you been all my life? I can’t believe this is her only book that I have read. I will most definitely be reading more of her work. This book has it all: suspense, mystery, love, action, romance, war, you name it. And it is all perfectly combined to produce the perfect story and the perfect beginning to what I know will be a fantastic series.