Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite

From the award-winning author of Sweet Glory comes an exciting love story, Train to Glory. Jana Brady is finally home after her period of spying on the Confederacy, a job filled with many dangers. Now she must find her sweetheart, Keeley Cassidy, who’s gone missing from battle. The only problem when she finds him is that he’s lost all memory of his past and can’t remember they have been lovers. How Jana plans to win his heart back is an adventure that will take readers to very exciting places, including her kidnapping, the appearance for the 88th State Legislature event, and her brilliant speech. Lisa Y. Potocar certainly wins the hearts of readers looking for romance with a twist.

Train to Glory is the first book by Lisa Y. Potocar that I have read and although it’s her second book in the series, it doesn’t feel so dependent on her earlier work, which means any reader can feel immediately connected with the characters and with the story right from its opening pages. Beginning with the arrival of Jana in her hometown and her psychological state, the author introduces tension by portraying the conflicting and intense emotions the young soldier harbors in her heart. The tension only grows stronger and when readers feel that it’s reached a climax, another wave of surprise hits them. I loved the way Jana is depicted, brave and daring, an unstoppable woman, and the very epitome of the life every woman craves. The prose is impeccable and the powerful descriptions paint a sizzling setting for readers to revel in. Fast paced and very entertaining, this book will come across as a great source of entertainment for many young and adult readers.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Whizbang Machine: Tunney's Curse Book 2 is a young adult paranormal mystery novel written by Danielle A. Vann. When Elizabeth awoke, it was from feverish dreams into a hellish reality that slowly made its way into her comprehension. She remembered that she and Grandpa Jack had been locked into the old abandoned factory and had to fight their way to survive the fire that Vivian set after imprisoning them. Elizabeth found that she was unable to move, debris from the upper floors covered her, holding her tight, and she could barely breathe in the toxin-laden air. She shouted out for her Grandpa and was relieved when she heard his footsteps running towards her. Vivian was still in the building and was vehemently defiant as she exited. She hissed to Grandpa Jack that there was no escaping Tunney’s vloek and that the machine belonged to her. Her parting words were directed at Elizabeth, and they sent a chill throughout her battered body.

Danielle A. Vann’s young adult paranormal mystery novel, The Whizbang Machine: Tunney's Curse Book 2, is a fast-paced and exciting continuation of the first book that blends history, action and adventure, and coming of age genres as Elizabeth and Grandpa Jack try to solve the mystery of the Whizbang machine and lift Tunney’s curse. I recommend that readers begin with The Whizbang Machine, the first book in the series, to get a full appreciation for the development of the story, its underlying history and the relationship between Elizabeth and her grandfather. Vann’s story is a thoroughly entertaining read. She keeps the suspense high and makes the reader work just as hard as her characters do to decipher the clues in this enthralling mystery. Elizabeth comes of age in Tunney’s Curse, and it’s a joy to follow as she copes with the uncertain waters and betrayals that are scattered throughout her path as a new adult rather than a child. She’s a marvelous character, intelligent, resourceful and willing to take risks, and she rises above situations that would fell even the most seasoned adult. Elizabeth is a grand role model for more mature preteens as well as young adults, and the content of this story is suitable for both age groups. The Whizbang Machine: Tunney's Curse Book 2 is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Rosie’s Umbrella written by Denny Taylor is a story of an unspeakable family secret. Rosie Llewelyn and her classmates are given an assignment to research their personal history, concentrating on the origin of their family name. But, what if you don’t have a past? In the Llewelyns Boston home, there were no family photos, no stories shared; nothing seemed to exist before Rosie was born. However, after Aunt Sarah gets trapped in an elevator at work, everything changes. Rosie’s aunt suddenly becomes grief stricken; the trauma of the past engulfs her whole being, changing her radically. For forty years, Rosie’s parents and aunt had kept a secret; they were imprisoned by a gripping silence. When the past and the present collide, Rosie is determined to help her aunt unlock the memories of the past by going on a personal quest to discover her “own truth.”

Rosie’s Umbrella is a spellbinding piece of literature. Profound and exquisitely written, Denny Taylor's exceptional story lures you in. It is a story of heritage, of shame and regret. But more importantly, it is a pursuit of self discovery, healing and reconciliation. The opening quote by Martin Luther King Jr. summarizes the theme of the narrative: “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Purposely illusive, the story is told through the confused and delusional voice of the young protagonist. The setting transcends time and location, the old and the new are intricately woven together. Most of the story is told through memories, recollections of thought, not in real time. The conflict is an internal struggle to find oneself, a rift between what is real and what is not. There are so many insightful thoughts described, especially regarding the power of storytelling, my favorite being: “There are always stories within stories.” Using a directive within the text, I encourage you to “read deeply” the story of Rosie’s Umbrella. Maybe you will find a bit of yourself within this unforgettable tale.

Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

The Case of the Magical Ivory Elephant is the third book in the Davey & Derek: Junior Detectives series, written by Janice Spina and illustrated by John Spina. While celebrating their eleventh birthday at the Pizza Palace, Davey and Derek Donato’s festivities are suddenly interrupted when restaurant staff discover a would-be thief breaking into their gaming machines. The twins later visit their Aunt Gigi, where they learn the story of Tamba – the beloved elephant of an African village, which died after living a full life. Aunt Gigi’s living room is filled with mementos of her visit to Africa, including a magical elephant figurine, carved from the elephant’s ivory tusk in honor of Tamba’s incredible life. On returning home, Davey and Derek find Peter Reynolds – the party-crasher from their pizza party – waiting at their front gate. Peter asks for the twins’ assistance regarding the theft of an ivory figurine from the local museum – carved from the same tusk as Aunt Gigi’s figurines. With so many suspects to choose from, all with alibis, Davey and Derek are pushed to the limit, trying to solve the case.

Janice Spina’s adventurous tale of twins just coming into their magical powers is one of excitement, suspense and mystery. With each chapter’s header carrying its own unique illustration, the story is one which can easily be enjoyed by children and adults alike. No stone is left unturned as Davey and Derek are given all the tools they need in order to fully investigate the case. Many exciting surprises are brought to light in The Case of the Magical Ivory Elephant, with more and more magical characters being disclosed as the story progresses. Having read all three of the Davey and Derek novels, I find myself being lured into the story more and more, almost as if ... by magic! I thoroughly enjoyed The Case of the Magical Ivory Elephant, and recommend it to readers of all ages who enjoy the fun, thrill and adventure of two gumshoe detectives, each of whom has the world of magic at their fingertips, whilst trying to solve the most difficult of cases.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Whizbang Machine: The Whizbang Machine Series, Book 1 is a young adult mystery novel written by Danielle A. Vann. Fifteen-year-old Elizabeth Yale loves her typewriter, even if it's not as efficient and easy to use as a laptop or word processor. While she's no stranger to tech and loves her phone, there's a special connection that she feels to the clanging chatter and other little noises that the typewriter emits as she works, and the feel of the keys hitting her paper. She's reluctant to leave her typing incomplete when her mother calls and tells her to come downstairs, but it is Grandpa Jack who's coming to see them, after all. It's been eight long years since he left, almost immediately after the sudden death of her father, Jesse. Having her grandfather desert her so soon after the loss of her dad hurt deeply, and while she's thrilled to be seeing him again and still has the hundreds of postcards he sent her during his travels, there's just a touch of resentment and hurt lingering from his desertion when she needed him most. But when the door opens, and she sees him standing there looking at him, she can't help but rush into his arms.

Danielle A. Vann's young adult mystery, The Whizbang Machine: The Whizbang Machine Series, Book 1, is an exciting and fast-paced novel that follows Elizabeth and her grandfather, Jack, as they follow the trail of clues relating to the strange typewriter he found in Morocco which bears Elizabeth's initials on it. Along the way, they discover hidden documents, share in an amazing genealogical trip into their family's past, and travel to Leiden in the Netherlands where it may all have begun. I loved revisiting the main branch of the New York Public Library with them and found the descriptions of Leiden so compelling that I searched Google for images to go along with my reading. Vann's characters are well-defined and authentic, and I especially appreciated Elizabeth's resilience, imagination and courage as she teams with Grandpa Jack. The plot is superb, mingling history with mystery as the two persist in following their clues, despite the dangers they come up against. While this is a relatively lengthy work, I actually found that this book ended all too soon, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. The Whizbang Machine: The Whizbang Machine Series, Book 1 is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Hatred Day by T.S. Pettibone is a compelling read that revolves around 18-year-old Snofrid Yagami who is an alien trying to co-exist with humans. Set in the future, the story shows a society which is full of savagery and where magic has found its way into Earth. Snofrid has lost her memory and she is hated by her own Inborn clan. But she has help from her brother as she is trying to figure out who likes her and who hates her. The Inborns are hated and hunted by humans, and Snofrid now wants a way out and to be free. She makes a deal with Commander Hadrian and his ruthless set of soldiers. Hadrian is manipulative and has a lot of enemies. Will Snofrid be able to achieve what she is looking for?

The story has many dimensions to it and is laced with magical powers, aliens, humans, and many other elements that reveal a futuristic society, and that makes it an engaging read. All the characters are authentic and unique, and the fluidity in the writing style gives the book a good pace and movement. The author blends science fiction and fantasy together effortlessly, making readers wait in anticipation for the next volume. The book has all the ingredients that will hold the attention of readers till the very end. Snofrid's character is well sketched and all the scenes in the book are vivid, as well as the plot, the characters, the background, and the villains. The plot is fascinating and thrilling, and will keep readers hooked till the very end.

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

In Travel Glasses (The Call to Search Everywhen, Book 1) by Chess Desalls, a young woman named Calidora ‘Calla’ Winston meets Valcas, an otherworldly time traveler who traverses time and space with a pair of altered sunglasses. When an ethereal being attacks Calla near her family’s lakeside cottage, Valcas uses the Travel Glasses to help her escape. He offers his further protection in exchange for a promise. Intrigued by Valcas and the possibility of time travel, Calla accepts. That is until she learns that his search for her was no mere coincidence.

I’m impressed with Desalls’ spin on the time travel theme, and the beautiful cover art complements the story well. The concept is very imaginative and well-defined. That said, it took a while for me to figure out the direction of the plot. Also, I found Calla to be too offhand at times even when she was in dangerous situations. Nevertheless, as the story progressed, everything became clearer and Calla shows more depth as a character. The mystery about Valcas is also well-written and will no doubt evoke readers’ curiosity.

The ‘science’ of the theme is complex, but the time travel method and the world building are clearly explained in a timely manner, chapter after chapter. This also allows the story to progress at a swift pace. In spite of the sci-fi fantasy theme, the notion of love and trust in Travel Glasses made quite an impression on me. Overall, I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Phantom Of Faerie Mountain is a young adult fantasy novel by E.M. McIntyre. Set initially in contemporary Scotland, the plot follows our fourteen-year-old heroine Abby Fletcher, who appears to be just an ordinary girl. Things take an incredible turn when she encounters a dog with peculiar powers, and then a prophecy is unveiled: “The Red King must set me free.” Abby finds herself thrown seven hundred years into the past, where she and Scottish hero Rory begin unravelling the mystery at hand. Expect action, riddles and occasional insertions from the mysterious Finlay as Abby’s modern attitude clashes with the time she’s trapped in.

I would recommend that this book is very much situated at the youngest end of the young adult spectrum, with no graphic content that would be unsuitable for its readership. It was wonderful to read a YA tale that didn’t center on a pointless love story, as E.M. McIntyre firmly gives Abby and Rory their own goals and motivations within the plot. The pace of The Phantom Of Faerie Mountain is speedy but vividly descriptive. I particularly enjoyed Rory’s dialect, which enhanced the medieval Scottish setting of most of the novel. The fantasy elements of the story were fascinating and well developed, and I feel that fans of YA fiction are bound to be swept up in the action and puzzlement of the tale. Overall, I’d definitely recommend The Phantom Of Faerie Mountain for readers looking for a non-romantic, action packed plot.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Fiona Frost: Blood Dolls - Fiona Frost Mystery Series, Volume 5 is a young adult mystery novel written by Dr. Bon Blossman. While this is the fifth volume in the Frost Series, the author provides enough background information within the text to allow this book to be read as a stand-alone novel. Fiona is college bound, and she has passed the reins of the Crime Lab and the Forensics Club of Godley Grove High School to her second-in-command, Doug and her cousin, Haley. The two of them will continue handling investigations with Detective Chase, Fiona's longtime mentor and friend. During the summer before college, Fiona's been given the opportunity to participate in an internship at Quantico, along with her friend, Maddy Christie, boyfriend, Wolfe Nero, and a last-minute replacement that has the three of them on edge: Remy Sinclair. Sinclair had earlier placed Fiona's life in jeopardy and was recovering from a bullet wound. Unbeknownst to the others, he had directly contacted Agent Jonas and was given the last spot on the team. Their internship becomes more of an official assignment, however, as the attacks of the Blood Doll killer have continued to perplex and frustrate the FBI. Their supervisor, Agent Jonas, has decided to use Fiona and the others as part of the second investigative team assigned to identify and apprehend the serial killer.

Dr. Bon Blossman's young adult mystery novel, Fiona Frost: Blood Dolls, is a fast-paced and exciting investigative murder mystery pitting the young forensic specialists against an unknown group with high-tech resources and a sinister plan of murder and revenge. Fiona is a strong, competent, and fearless character who's a marvelous role model for young adults. Watching as she, Maddie, Wolfe, and Remy work with the FBI to solve the mysteries of the Blood Dolls and the Bleak Society is highly entertaining, and the resolution of the story will challenge even the most skillful of those readers who like to solve the mystery on their own. Blossman's plot is filled with red herrings and twists and turns, and it all happens at a breakneck pace. Her writing is accomplished, and her style is perfectly suited for this genre. Fiona Frost: Blood Dolls - Fiona Frost Mystery Series, Volume 5 is a captivating mystery that's most highly recommended for mystery lovers of all ages.

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

“The few friends I had, if you could call them friends, turned away from me when I started seeing things. Visions. Clairvoyant was the term my therapist used. Freak was the term kids at school gave me.” Visions: The Mystical Encounter Series, Book 1 by Kimberly Readnour is a mystery thriller about a not so ordinary teenager, Heather Reiner. The story opens with an intriguing prologue, enough for me to invest all my attention in each page. It’s a fitting start to its premise, which definitely piques my interest.

Heather is an outcast and she makes sure that she stays that way. A simple touch can cause her visions to appear. Her mother tries to help by moving them out of Clayton to another town – a fresh start. As they move into their new house, Heather picks up a strange mixture of coldness and sadness from her bedroom. The mystery intensifies as a vision of a small boy haunts her after she touched an old toy truck that her mother found.

On the whole, Visions is a solid read. The story moves at an appropriate pace, enticing you as you delve deeper into the plot. Readnour knows how to use her words to maximum effect. The seamless prose fruitfully rewards the well-crafted plot, making it a completely accomplished novel that is easy for readers to enjoy. It is a great start to the series and it will likely surprise you as much as it did me. I look forward to Book 2.