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Recommend this book:
Unsettling Thoughts
Erik Dean
2024 Finalist
252 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In the horror novel Unsettling Thoughts by Erik Dean, Tina's life takes a dark turn after purchasing an antique chair. Initially, her concerns center on conceiving and exhaustion, but soon she experiences strange occurrences and sleepwalking, leading her to question her sanity. Tina's suspicions about her husband's fidelity grow, and inexplicable items, like a knife in her purse, add to mounting distress and confusion. Despite normal test results, her mental state deteriorates. As flames and murder raise alarms, Tina’s behavior becomes erratic, influenced by disturbing dreams. Tina's friend Wanda, suspecting the influence of the supernatural possession of an object, resolves to destroy it—and whoever, or whatever controls it—and save Tina from its manipulation. But time is running out, an evil force is quickly closing in, and the word “escape” means two entirely different things, depending on who you ask.
"Have a seat, let me see how it fits ...That old chair looks like it was made for you." The slow buildup of Unsettling Thoughts by Erik Dean is what makes its heated climax so satisfying. I've lived in London for over a decade and there's a reason I don't do ghost tours. Having Tina and her friends descend on a historically rich excursion serves to kick off the supernatural elements with its history of fires, lawlessness, and buildings constructed on slag mixed with human remains. And an antique furniture purchase. In the background, we have this deliciously terrible story of another family that comes full circle when Wanda ventures into a mental institution and things start to connect. This can only be attributed to Dean's skill at methodically taking loose ends and spinning them into something bigger. The ending is not at all what I expected but the subversion of expectation is spectacular, and, overall, this is a wonderful read. Very highly recommended.
In the horror novel Unsettling Thoughts by Erik Dean, Tina's life takes a dark turn after purchasing an antique chair. Initially, her concerns center on conceiving and exhaustion, but soon she experiences strange occurrences and sleepwalking, leading her to question her sanity. Tina's suspicions about her husband's fidelity grow, and inexplicable items, like a knife in her purse, add to mounting distress and confusion. Despite normal test results, her mental state deteriorates. As flames and murder raise alarms, Tina’s behavior becomes erratic, influenced by disturbing dreams. Tina's friend Wanda, suspecting the influence of the supernatural possession of an object, resolves to destroy it—and whoever, or whatever controls it—and save Tina from its manipulation. But time is running out, an evil force is quickly closing in, and the word “escape” means two entirely different things, depending on who you ask.
"Have a seat, let me see how it fits ...That old chair looks like it was made for you." The slow buildup of Unsettling Thoughts by Erik Dean is what makes its heated climax so satisfying. I've lived in London for over a decade and there's a reason I don't do ghost tours. Having Tina and her friends descend on a historically rich excursion serves to kick off the supernatural elements with its history of fires, lawlessness, and buildings constructed on slag mixed with human remains. And an antique furniture purchase. In the background, we have this deliciously terrible story of another family that comes full circle when Wanda ventures into a mental institution and things start to connect. This can only be attributed to Dean's skill at methodically taking loose ends and spinning them into something bigger. The ending is not at all what I expected but the subversion of expectation is spectacular, and, overall, this is a wonderful read. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Carousel
Sarah McKnight
2024 Honorable Mention
290 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Sarah McKnight’s Carousel is a riveting YA horror story that centers around Laura Fitzpatrick, an 18-year-old introvert, and her crush, Maddie, who navigate the terrifying events that unfold after a fateful Halloween night. The novel opens with Laura, dressed as her favorite killer, at a raucous Halloween party, where strobe lights transform the living room into a chaotic frenzy. Laura's internal struggle is palpable as she oscillates between embracing the party spirit and retreating into her comfort zone. This dynamic is amplified by her costume, which gives her the confidence to step outside herself, if only temporarily. Laura’s reluctance, rooted in her knowledge of horror tropes, adds a layer of irony that horror fans will appreciate. The tension escalates when the group transitions to a game of truth-or-dare, where secrets are revealed, and relationships are tested. The opening sets the tone for Laura proving her bravery to Maddie and her classmates by accepting the dare to go to an abandoned carnival ground known as Plum Creek Carnival. This is where the true meaning of horror and an ancient secret is unearthed.
Sarah McKnight’s character and plot development are noteworthy. There’s great tension building from the very beginning. As the story progresses, the introduction of the Ouija board marks a shift from the mundane to the supernatural. Laura’s tentative attempts at social interaction, especially with her lab partner Maddie, are endearingly awkward yet relatable. The portrayal of Laura’s introversion, contrasted with the vibrant, chaotic party environment, creates an engaging dichotomy that readers will find both captivating and authentic. Laura’s evolution from a shy, hesitant teenager to someone who faces her fears head-on is compelling. Her interactions with Maddie are particularly well-crafted, showing the complexities of teenage crushes and the yearning for acceptance. Carousel stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and its ability to weave horror elements seamlessly into the narrative. Overall, this is a masterfully crafted YA horror novel that combines spine-chilling thrills with the timeless fear of the unknown.
Sarah McKnight’s Carousel is a riveting YA horror story that centers around Laura Fitzpatrick, an 18-year-old introvert, and her crush, Maddie, who navigate the terrifying events that unfold after a fateful Halloween night. The novel opens with Laura, dressed as her favorite killer, at a raucous Halloween party, where strobe lights transform the living room into a chaotic frenzy. Laura's internal struggle is palpable as she oscillates between embracing the party spirit and retreating into her comfort zone. This dynamic is amplified by her costume, which gives her the confidence to step outside herself, if only temporarily. Laura’s reluctance, rooted in her knowledge of horror tropes, adds a layer of irony that horror fans will appreciate. The tension escalates when the group transitions to a game of truth-or-dare, where secrets are revealed, and relationships are tested. The opening sets the tone for Laura proving her bravery to Maddie and her classmates by accepting the dare to go to an abandoned carnival ground known as Plum Creek Carnival. This is where the true meaning of horror and an ancient secret is unearthed.
Sarah McKnight’s character and plot development are noteworthy. There’s great tension building from the very beginning. As the story progresses, the introduction of the Ouija board marks a shift from the mundane to the supernatural. Laura’s tentative attempts at social interaction, especially with her lab partner Maddie, are endearingly awkward yet relatable. The portrayal of Laura’s introversion, contrasted with the vibrant, chaotic party environment, creates an engaging dichotomy that readers will find both captivating and authentic. Laura’s evolution from a shy, hesitant teenager to someone who faces her fears head-on is compelling. Her interactions with Maddie are particularly well-crafted, showing the complexities of teenage crushes and the yearning for acceptance. Carousel stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and its ability to weave horror elements seamlessly into the narrative. Overall, this is a masterfully crafted YA horror novel that combines spine-chilling thrills with the timeless fear of the unknown.
Recommend this book:
Misfit's Magic
Shades of Winter
Fred Gracely
2024 Bronze Medal
314 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Misfit's Magic: Shades of Winter is a work of fiction in the fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres, and it serves as the second book in the series after The Last Halloween. It is intended for young adult readers but can also be enjoyed by mature middle-grade readers and the young at heart. Penned by author Fred Gracely, this enthralling urban fantasy takes readers on a spellbinding journey filled with magic, humor, and suspense. The story revolves around Goff, who believed he had left the world of magic behind. However, fate has other plans, and he's pulled back into a world he thought he'd escaped. Attending a boarding school that felt like home, Goff and his friends find themselves thrust into a sinister plot to create a new magical empire backed by wealthy and influential figures. They must uncover a way to thwart these malevolent plans, or everything they hold dear will be in jeopardy.
Author Fred Gracely has crafted a compelling fantasy tale that's brimming with humor, magical intrigue, and the deeply enjoyable drama of boarding school life. The narrative is full of epic battles, monstrous creatures, and memorable characters, and the author brings these to life with descriptive lexis that goes beyond the cinematic to give a multi-sensory, immersive experience. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and moves at a pace where there’s never a dull moment, yet everything works smoothly within the internal logic and worldbuilding of the tale so that you always feel satisfied with the outcomes. Overall, Misfit's Magic: Shades of Winter is a mighty sequel that keeps you engaged from start to finish with its rich world-building and compelling storytelling, and I would highly recommend it to fantasy fans everywhere.
Misfit's Magic: Shades of Winter is a work of fiction in the fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres, and it serves as the second book in the series after The Last Halloween. It is intended for young adult readers but can also be enjoyed by mature middle-grade readers and the young at heart. Penned by author Fred Gracely, this enthralling urban fantasy takes readers on a spellbinding journey filled with magic, humor, and suspense. The story revolves around Goff, who believed he had left the world of magic behind. However, fate has other plans, and he's pulled back into a world he thought he'd escaped. Attending a boarding school that felt like home, Goff and his friends find themselves thrust into a sinister plot to create a new magical empire backed by wealthy and influential figures. They must uncover a way to thwart these malevolent plans, or everything they hold dear will be in jeopardy.
Author Fred Gracely has crafted a compelling fantasy tale that's brimming with humor, magical intrigue, and the deeply enjoyable drama of boarding school life. The narrative is full of epic battles, monstrous creatures, and memorable characters, and the author brings these to life with descriptive lexis that goes beyond the cinematic to give a multi-sensory, immersive experience. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and moves at a pace where there’s never a dull moment, yet everything works smoothly within the internal logic and worldbuilding of the tale so that you always feel satisfied with the outcomes. Overall, Misfit's Magic: Shades of Winter is a mighty sequel that keeps you engaged from start to finish with its rich world-building and compelling storytelling, and I would highly recommend it to fantasy fans everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Rise of Dresca
Tim McKay
2024 Silver Medal
283 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Rise of Dresca is an epic fantasy by Tim McKay. Left for dead by Athamein Tarvor and his cult, Valdaris Drascar, a former artillery captain of the fallen nation of Ceremai, rises from the throes of death to transform into someone who spells doom for anything and everything that crosses his path. After a devastating battle with dragons and humans alike, Vald finds himself in the company of a small group, which includes a few Selvan scouts, a scheming captain, and two high-born Siilvalan twins who are sword masters. As the little group makes its way to the Kartumol fortress, an imperceivable evil follows them that leaves blood and carnage in its wake. With everyone having their schemes, a little orphan girl's power and Vald's unquenchable rage are the only things standing in the way of monsters.
Action-packed and filled with a healthy dose of magic, mayhem, and fantastical lore, Rise of Dresca is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a riveting epic fantasy series. Author Tim McKay knocks it out of the park with a story that sets the stage perfectly for an expanded fantasy saga rich in world-building, epic storylines, and characters who leap off the pages. McKay uses a multiple-POV narrative style that helps readers get into the headspace of different personalities and showcases the varying factions and the stakes involved. Each character has their agency and motives that add layers to their personas. The book ends on a cliffhanger, making me even more eager to read the sequel. If you enjoy action-packed dark fantasy, don't miss out on Rise of Dresca.
Rise of Dresca is an epic fantasy by Tim McKay. Left for dead by Athamein Tarvor and his cult, Valdaris Drascar, a former artillery captain of the fallen nation of Ceremai, rises from the throes of death to transform into someone who spells doom for anything and everything that crosses his path. After a devastating battle with dragons and humans alike, Vald finds himself in the company of a small group, which includes a few Selvan scouts, a scheming captain, and two high-born Siilvalan twins who are sword masters. As the little group makes its way to the Kartumol fortress, an imperceivable evil follows them that leaves blood and carnage in its wake. With everyone having their schemes, a little orphan girl's power and Vald's unquenchable rage are the only things standing in the way of monsters.
Action-packed and filled with a healthy dose of magic, mayhem, and fantastical lore, Rise of Dresca is a phenomenal start to what promises to be a riveting epic fantasy series. Author Tim McKay knocks it out of the park with a story that sets the stage perfectly for an expanded fantasy saga rich in world-building, epic storylines, and characters who leap off the pages. McKay uses a multiple-POV narrative style that helps readers get into the headspace of different personalities and showcases the varying factions and the stakes involved. Each character has their agency and motives that add layers to their personas. The book ends on a cliffhanger, making me even more eager to read the sequel. If you enjoy action-packed dark fantasy, don't miss out on Rise of Dresca.
Recommend this book:
Steve The Zombie
Stephen Wayne
2024 Gold Medal
163 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Steve The Zombie is a post-apocalyptic dystopian horror novel by Stephen Wayne. The book opens with a man waking up in a city surrounded by a horde of flesh-eating zombies. To his horror, the man remembers that he used to be a detective named Steve, now infected with a deadly pathogen that has ravaged his body and taken control of a part of his mind. Steve realizes his consciousness and the infection are locked in a fierce battle for control. He wills his mind toward figuring out the root cause of the deadly outbreak while dodging attacks from the survivors who struggle to repel the horde of zombies. But when he comes across Sarah, his former lover, on the verge of sharing his fate, Steve must protect her at all costs. Will he be successful?
Author Stephen Wayne puts a unique twist on the post-apocalyptic horror genre by telling a gripping tale through the perspective of one of the infected. What happens when an infected zombie develops an inner subconscious that retains its previous human self? This is the premise of Steve The Zombie. Wayne excels in creating an atmosphere of tension and dread, and with a swirling mix of suspense, intrigue, and thrills, the narrative keeps you hooked. The action sequences are described in vivid detail. The plot is evenly paced, with a few well-placed curveballs that take you by surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will recommend it to anyone who loves post-apocalyptic stories featuring zombies.
Steve The Zombie is a post-apocalyptic dystopian horror novel by Stephen Wayne. The book opens with a man waking up in a city surrounded by a horde of flesh-eating zombies. To his horror, the man remembers that he used to be a detective named Steve, now infected with a deadly pathogen that has ravaged his body and taken control of a part of his mind. Steve realizes his consciousness and the infection are locked in a fierce battle for control. He wills his mind toward figuring out the root cause of the deadly outbreak while dodging attacks from the survivors who struggle to repel the horde of zombies. But when he comes across Sarah, his former lover, on the verge of sharing his fate, Steve must protect her at all costs. Will he be successful?
Author Stephen Wayne puts a unique twist on the post-apocalyptic horror genre by telling a gripping tale through the perspective of one of the infected. What happens when an infected zombie develops an inner subconscious that retains its previous human self? This is the premise of Steve The Zombie. Wayne excels in creating an atmosphere of tension and dread, and with a swirling mix of suspense, intrigue, and thrills, the narrative keeps you hooked. The action sequences are described in vivid detail. The plot is evenly paced, with a few well-placed curveballs that take you by surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will recommend it to anyone who loves post-apocalyptic stories featuring zombies.
Recommend this book:
Once Upon A Scare
Dr. Bon Blossman
2023 Bronze Medal
276 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
The short story collection in Once Upon A Scare offers some of the best writing for young adults that I've had the privilege of experiencing. The stories run short of horror while concentrating on scenes, situations, and characters that young adults will experience in the real world, yet Dr. Bon Blossman places these characters into supernatural, metaphysical, and paranormal situations. Each of the stories has a scare element or horror factor, without the need for the gruesome blood and guts that some horror fans enjoy.
Dr. Blossman's skill at story-telling is more than sufficient; it's downright intriguing and enough to keep even hard-core horror fans eagerly turning the pages in Once Upon A Scare. A key element in holding our attention is a sense of reality which applies to all facets of the story-telling in this collection. From scene setting to characterizations and dialog to methods, instruments, and minute details shared across the board, Blossman is among the best at keeping it all real. With noteworthy talent, this will not be the last book of hers that I will pick up.
The short story collection in Once Upon A Scare offers some of the best writing for young adults that I've had the privilege of experiencing. The stories run short of horror while concentrating on scenes, situations, and characters that young adults will experience in the real world, yet Dr. Bon Blossman places these characters into supernatural, metaphysical, and paranormal situations. Each of the stories has a scare element or horror factor, without the need for the gruesome blood and guts that some horror fans enjoy.
Dr. Blossman's skill at story-telling is more than sufficient; it's downright intriguing and enough to keep even hard-core horror fans eagerly turning the pages in Once Upon A Scare. A key element in holding our attention is a sense of reality which applies to all facets of the story-telling in this collection. From scene setting to characterizations and dialog to methods, instruments, and minute details shared across the board, Blossman is among the best at keeping it all real. With noteworthy talent, this will not be the last book of hers that I will pick up.
Recommend this book:
Blood Ever After
A Zombie Apocalypse Thriller
Sean O'Connor
2023 Silver Medal
209 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
News of unusual violent incidents happening around the world has filtered into Oakland in bits and pieces but the residents of the city take little notice of this. Not until similar happenings occur within the city and deranged-looking people show up gibbering an unusual name. Tyler Boyd is far from interested in these happenings as he struggles to come to terms with the untimely passing of his older brother. When the plague strikes in the middle of his session in class, all Tyler wants to do is rush home to the safety of his home and his parents. Unforeseen circumstances and harrowing encounters are about to make what used to be a simple trip into a horrifying experience for the young man in Sean O’Connor’s Blood Ever After.
Blood Ever After is different from your typical horror fest as Sean O’Connor builds up the emotional component of his story solidly. This in turn creates a balanced back story for not just the lead character in this curious adventure but also the supporting cast. Tyler’s conversations with Joshi come off as so realistic it elicits the odd bout of discomfort from one who is adept at reading between the lines. The romantic subplot is cute with Charlotte’s interactions with Tyler reminiscent of the kind of puppy love tested time and again in this adventure. O’Connor delivers on the horror component with his storytelling; he goes into the deadly details with blood-curdling glee as he describes death’s approach in some of the most disturbing ways imaginable. Only a brave reader would read Blood Ever After without looking over their shoulders.
News of unusual violent incidents happening around the world has filtered into Oakland in bits and pieces but the residents of the city take little notice of this. Not until similar happenings occur within the city and deranged-looking people show up gibbering an unusual name. Tyler Boyd is far from interested in these happenings as he struggles to come to terms with the untimely passing of his older brother. When the plague strikes in the middle of his session in class, all Tyler wants to do is rush home to the safety of his home and his parents. Unforeseen circumstances and harrowing encounters are about to make what used to be a simple trip into a horrifying experience for the young man in Sean O’Connor’s Blood Ever After.
Blood Ever After is different from your typical horror fest as Sean O’Connor builds up the emotional component of his story solidly. This in turn creates a balanced back story for not just the lead character in this curious adventure but also the supporting cast. Tyler’s conversations with Joshi come off as so realistic it elicits the odd bout of discomfort from one who is adept at reading between the lines. The romantic subplot is cute with Charlotte’s interactions with Tyler reminiscent of the kind of puppy love tested time and again in this adventure. O’Connor delivers on the horror component with his storytelling; he goes into the deadly details with blood-curdling glee as he describes death’s approach in some of the most disturbing ways imaginable. Only a brave reader would read Blood Ever After without looking over their shoulders.
Recommend this book:
Misfit's Magic
The Last Halloween
Fred Gracely
2023 Gold Medal
354 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Misfit’s Magic: The Last Halloween is a work of fiction in the fantasy subgenre and serves as the opening installment of the Misfit’s Magic series. It is aimed at young adult readers and was penned by author Fred Gracely. The book follows a young boy named Goff who is an outcast suddenly granted incredible magical powers. When he is thrust into a battle against a corrupt master of the magical arts who wants to hoard power for himself, Goff must overcome the difficulties of his childhood so far with the help of his new friends as they fight back against the army of monsters hunting them.
I had a wonderful time with this story which painted an intense but charming picture of magic leaking into the otherwise ordinary life of a boy living on the outside of society looking in. Author Fred Gracely’s skill as a world builder is on show right from the very beginning as he masterfully introduces the rules and norms of the magical world as it seeps into the world we know. This robust establishing of the fantasy trappings is helped in no small part by protagonist Goff whose perspective on the events of the narrative gives the whole book a fresh and accessible feel. It’s a difficult task to write a compelling opener to a series, laying the foundations for the saga that is to come whilst also telling a complete and satisfying stand-alone story, but The Last Halloween accomplishes this goal with aplomb, creating a memorable tale with plenty of room for growth in future installments.
Misfit’s Magic: The Last Halloween is a work of fiction in the fantasy subgenre and serves as the opening installment of the Misfit’s Magic series. It is aimed at young adult readers and was penned by author Fred Gracely. The book follows a young boy named Goff who is an outcast suddenly granted incredible magical powers. When he is thrust into a battle against a corrupt master of the magical arts who wants to hoard power for himself, Goff must overcome the difficulties of his childhood so far with the help of his new friends as they fight back against the army of monsters hunting them.
I had a wonderful time with this story which painted an intense but charming picture of magic leaking into the otherwise ordinary life of a boy living on the outside of society looking in. Author Fred Gracely’s skill as a world builder is on show right from the very beginning as he masterfully introduces the rules and norms of the magical world as it seeps into the world we know. This robust establishing of the fantasy trappings is helped in no small part by protagonist Goff whose perspective on the events of the narrative gives the whole book a fresh and accessible feel. It’s a difficult task to write a compelling opener to a series, laying the foundations for the saga that is to come whilst also telling a complete and satisfying stand-alone story, but The Last Halloween accomplishes this goal with aplomb, creating a memorable tale with plenty of room for growth in future installments.
Recommend this book:
M in the Demon Realm
Book 1
Mark William Hammond
2022 Finalist
164 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Are you a fan of action-packed fantasy stories based on Chinese lore and mythology? If the answer is yes, grab a copy of M in the Demon Realm: Book 1 by Mark William Hammond. Separated at a tender age from her twin during a vicious demon attack, Emma Ricci, an orphan of Asian origin, was adopted by an Italian American couple who raised her as their own in New York City. Now an aspiring fashion designer, Emma finds herself thrust into an ancient war when she is attacked by demons from hell, resulting in the death of her boyfriend and a stint in the ICU. After two Chinese masters reveal her to be a demon killer, Emma, now known as M, must embrace her destiny to fight the monsters from hell and close its gates before all is lost.
Mark William Hammond blends fantasy horror elements with Asian martial arts-inspired action sequences to create an entertaining odyssey you don't want to end. M in the Demon Realm is an adrenaline-fueled ride full of non-stop action and thrills that you can't put down until you've finished reading. The characters have well-defined traits and distinct personalities. This is primarily a plot-driven story where our heroine reluctantly embraces the responsibility to save the world as everything surrounding her seems to devolve into chaos. M is a likable protagonist who you will find easy to root for. I enjoyed this adventure and recommend it to fans of action-packed fantasy stories.
Are you a fan of action-packed fantasy stories based on Chinese lore and mythology? If the answer is yes, grab a copy of M in the Demon Realm: Book 1 by Mark William Hammond. Separated at a tender age from her twin during a vicious demon attack, Emma Ricci, an orphan of Asian origin, was adopted by an Italian American couple who raised her as their own in New York City. Now an aspiring fashion designer, Emma finds herself thrust into an ancient war when she is attacked by demons from hell, resulting in the death of her boyfriend and a stint in the ICU. After two Chinese masters reveal her to be a demon killer, Emma, now known as M, must embrace her destiny to fight the monsters from hell and close its gates before all is lost.
Mark William Hammond blends fantasy horror elements with Asian martial arts-inspired action sequences to create an entertaining odyssey you don't want to end. M in the Demon Realm is an adrenaline-fueled ride full of non-stop action and thrills that you can't put down until you've finished reading. The characters have well-defined traits and distinct personalities. This is primarily a plot-driven story where our heroine reluctantly embraces the responsibility to save the world as everything surrounding her seems to devolve into chaos. M is a likable protagonist who you will find easy to root for. I enjoyed this adventure and recommend it to fans of action-packed fantasy stories.
Recommend this book:
The House of Tongues
James Dashner
2022 Honorable Mention
303 Pages
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Young Adult - Horror
Reviewed by Nicholus Schroeder for Readers' Favorite
The House of Tongues is a horror story by James Dashner. David Player and his family of four kids made their annual trip to his parents' house in South Carolina. They were enjoying a meal when they heard the doorbell. The family assumed that an aunt had come to visit yet once they opened the door, they found no relative bearing gifts, only a strange man. The stranger was shaking and was visibly distressed so the family tried to find out if he was okay but his words made no sense - he would go from rational to insane like the flip of a switch. David was starting to get freaked out when the stranger shocked everyone by choking on his tongue. The bizarre events that transpired that fateful night turned David's life upside down and made him remember things better left forgotten. Once again, David must confront an unearthly evil to save the ones he loves.
I knew this book was going to be an amazing work of horror, given how talented an author James Dashner is, but I must say he went above and beyond my expectations for The House of Tongues. The uniqueness of the plot kept me glued to the pages and wanting more after each chapter. The many mysteries also fed my curiosity, and I can't believe the amount of creativity that was on display. Another huge positive for me was the chills this book could give me. The hair-raising, goosebump-inducing scares were pure gold. To instill such fear in a reader with words as the only medium to convey a scene is nothing short of extraordinary. James Dashner was able to really convey urgency and suspense using the pacing to great effect and this allowed him to keep the scenes grounded in reality. I prefer horror books that are rooted in reality to a certain degree as they are a lot more terrifying in my opinion. I'm glad to have read such an incredible book and recommend it to fans of the horror genre.
The House of Tongues is a horror story by James Dashner. David Player and his family of four kids made their annual trip to his parents' house in South Carolina. They were enjoying a meal when they heard the doorbell. The family assumed that an aunt had come to visit yet once they opened the door, they found no relative bearing gifts, only a strange man. The stranger was shaking and was visibly distressed so the family tried to find out if he was okay but his words made no sense - he would go from rational to insane like the flip of a switch. David was starting to get freaked out when the stranger shocked everyone by choking on his tongue. The bizarre events that transpired that fateful night turned David's life upside down and made him remember things better left forgotten. Once again, David must confront an unearthly evil to save the ones he loves.
I knew this book was going to be an amazing work of horror, given how talented an author James Dashner is, but I must say he went above and beyond my expectations for The House of Tongues. The uniqueness of the plot kept me glued to the pages and wanting more after each chapter. The many mysteries also fed my curiosity, and I can't believe the amount of creativity that was on display. Another huge positive for me was the chills this book could give me. The hair-raising, goosebump-inducing scares were pure gold. To instill such fear in a reader with words as the only medium to convey a scene is nothing short of extraordinary. James Dashner was able to really convey urgency and suspense using the pacing to great effect and this allowed him to keep the scenes grounded in reality. I prefer horror books that are rooted in reality to a certain degree as they are a lot more terrifying in my opinion. I'm glad to have read such an incredible book and recommend it to fans of the horror genre.
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