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Recommend this book:
Nymph Totem
Brittni Chenelle
2024 Finalist
286 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Sadiyah Bhamjee for Readers' Favorite
Step into hell with Nova as she is cast out after her coming-of-age ceremony goes awry. Just as Nova finally gets to take her friendship to the next level with the charming prince, she is banished from The Garden, an idyllic island that floats about Earth, and sent to the underworld. She is not sent there alone, however. The prince’s dark and mysterious brother is sent to rule the underworld. Nova battles against her exile while she fights feelings for the underworld’s new king. Convinced that she should be with her Prince Charming, Nova struggles to change her fate, and her true nature. Join Nova as she battles her feelings, the system, and her nature, all while riding a dragon, in Nymph Totem by Brittni Chenelle.
I had planned to read just a few pages of Nymph Totem to relax after a tiring day, but the next thing I knew it was 3 a.m. and I had finished the entire book. The reasons I could not put down Brittni Chenelle’s Nymph Totem range from a thrilling plot to a pulse-racing romance to enough deception to leave me wanting revenge. The plot always had something to give. Whether it was a sudden betrayal or a tender moment, something was always waiting around the corner. Nova's romance choice between the brothers was effective because of the carefully written characters. As Nova changed, the way the brothers adapted highlighted parts of their characters and it made the characters real. No one was perfect and that made them relatable.
Step into hell with Nova as she is cast out after her coming-of-age ceremony goes awry. Just as Nova finally gets to take her friendship to the next level with the charming prince, she is banished from The Garden, an idyllic island that floats about Earth, and sent to the underworld. She is not sent there alone, however. The prince’s dark and mysterious brother is sent to rule the underworld. Nova battles against her exile while she fights feelings for the underworld’s new king. Convinced that she should be with her Prince Charming, Nova struggles to change her fate, and her true nature. Join Nova as she battles her feelings, the system, and her nature, all while riding a dragon, in Nymph Totem by Brittni Chenelle.
I had planned to read just a few pages of Nymph Totem to relax after a tiring day, but the next thing I knew it was 3 a.m. and I had finished the entire book. The reasons I could not put down Brittni Chenelle’s Nymph Totem range from a thrilling plot to a pulse-racing romance to enough deception to leave me wanting revenge. The plot always had something to give. Whether it was a sudden betrayal or a tender moment, something was always waiting around the corner. Nova's romance choice between the brothers was effective because of the carefully written characters. As Nova changed, the way the brothers adapted highlighted parts of their characters and it made the characters real. No one was perfect and that made them relatable.
Recommend this book:
Excalibur's Pendragon
Book One of the Aethervard Legacy
Parker C. Wilson
2024 Honorable Mention
280 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Despite a promising prophecy, seventeen-year-old Ryan is weighed down by powerful emotions. Ryan is the predicted chosen one, and he must use the sword Excalibur to help a secret agency called the ORT. His destiny is to save his homeworld from evil terrorists and establish a code of peace. Apart from having to fight the fierce monsters called fomori, he must defeat an old rival driven by passionate hatred and a lust for power. To make matters worse, Ryan feels betrayed by his parents for keeping his true identity a secret. Will Ryan be able to fulfill his destiny while facing monumental obstacles? Excalibur's Pendragon: Book One of the Aethervard Legacy by Parker C. Wilson spins a powerful tale about magic and a gifted young protagonist who struggles with feeling betrayed by those he once trusted.
If you're looking for an addictive plot, you're in for a treat. Right from the beginning, you get a clue about the exciting developments that are likely to spring up later in the story. For example, Ryan's mother trains him physically in preparation for his future role, prompting the reader to picture and anticipate a time when his skills would come in handy. The plot maintains a thrilling string of events throughout. From aliens and other worlds to fierce monsters and intricate magic, the otherworldly themes are expertly portrayed. I strongly recommend Excalibur's Pendragon to readers of young adult books and tales that evoke deep imagination. Parker C. Wilson's fast-paced, action-packed fantasy had me canceling some of my plans because I couldn't wait to unravel the plot. Now that I'm done, I'm very eager to read the sequel since the story ends with a cliffhanger.
Despite a promising prophecy, seventeen-year-old Ryan is weighed down by powerful emotions. Ryan is the predicted chosen one, and he must use the sword Excalibur to help a secret agency called the ORT. His destiny is to save his homeworld from evil terrorists and establish a code of peace. Apart from having to fight the fierce monsters called fomori, he must defeat an old rival driven by passionate hatred and a lust for power. To make matters worse, Ryan feels betrayed by his parents for keeping his true identity a secret. Will Ryan be able to fulfill his destiny while facing monumental obstacles? Excalibur's Pendragon: Book One of the Aethervard Legacy by Parker C. Wilson spins a powerful tale about magic and a gifted young protagonist who struggles with feeling betrayed by those he once trusted.
If you're looking for an addictive plot, you're in for a treat. Right from the beginning, you get a clue about the exciting developments that are likely to spring up later in the story. For example, Ryan's mother trains him physically in preparation for his future role, prompting the reader to picture and anticipate a time when his skills would come in handy. The plot maintains a thrilling string of events throughout. From aliens and other worlds to fierce monsters and intricate magic, the otherworldly themes are expertly portrayed. I strongly recommend Excalibur's Pendragon to readers of young adult books and tales that evoke deep imagination. Parker C. Wilson's fast-paced, action-packed fantasy had me canceling some of my plans because I couldn't wait to unravel the plot. Now that I'm done, I'm very eager to read the sequel since the story ends with a cliffhanger.
Recommend this book:
The Accidental Education
System School Book 2
Kos Play
2024 Bronze Medal
450 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
The Accidental Education is book 2 in Kos Play’s System School series. To us, the Los Angeles Times is just an old newspaper building. But its age and history mean it has another use. Unknown to mere mortals, those of the non-magical world, the place is a front for a magic school called The Academy. Here Melvin and Kalli are about to embark on their newest adventure, learning to harness their powers. But secrets and discoveries lie in their future, they have much to learn, and the clock is still ticking.
Not having read the first book in the series, I did feel a little lost as to the way things were, but it's written in such a manner that a reader can easily follow along with the story and details become clearer as the plot progresses. I love how the magic world exists within the non-magical, and how Kos Play explained things such as train delays as occurring when a magical presence affects the non-magical. It was well thought out. The mixture of development and action, discovery and adventure is perfectly paced to ensure the reader feels fully immersed in both the world and characters. The magic system had a lot of thought into how it worked, and discovering this through the characters’ trials and errors ensured it avoided the typical textbook descriptions some books employ. As a gamer, LitRPG is one of my favorite genres, and The Accidental Education hit a sweet spot between urban fantasy and Lit RPG. This book has so much to offer for gamers and fantasy lovers alike. Drama, insecurity, and jealousy meet epic fantasy creatures, magic, and adventure in a coming-of-age journey that will leave you wanting more.
The Accidental Education is book 2 in Kos Play’s System School series. To us, the Los Angeles Times is just an old newspaper building. But its age and history mean it has another use. Unknown to mere mortals, those of the non-magical world, the place is a front for a magic school called The Academy. Here Melvin and Kalli are about to embark on their newest adventure, learning to harness their powers. But secrets and discoveries lie in their future, they have much to learn, and the clock is still ticking.
Not having read the first book in the series, I did feel a little lost as to the way things were, but it's written in such a manner that a reader can easily follow along with the story and details become clearer as the plot progresses. I love how the magic world exists within the non-magical, and how Kos Play explained things such as train delays as occurring when a magical presence affects the non-magical. It was well thought out. The mixture of development and action, discovery and adventure is perfectly paced to ensure the reader feels fully immersed in both the world and characters. The magic system had a lot of thought into how it worked, and discovering this through the characters’ trials and errors ensured it avoided the typical textbook descriptions some books employ. As a gamer, LitRPG is one of my favorite genres, and The Accidental Education hit a sweet spot between urban fantasy and Lit RPG. This book has so much to offer for gamers and fantasy lovers alike. Drama, insecurity, and jealousy meet epic fantasy creatures, magic, and adventure in a coming-of-age journey that will leave you wanting more.
Recommend this book:
Tales of Witches and Wyverns
A Portal Fantasy Adventure
S. Ramsey
2024 Silver Medal
277 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Tales of Witches and Wyverns by S. Ramsey, the first book in a series, opens the doors of the legendary Isle of Affalon to young adult fans of fantasy, fairy tales, romance, and novels based on Welsh mythology. Enid suffers from nightmarish dreams that remind her of the loss of her mother. The other children bully her constantly. Dylan, a neighboring boy one year older than Enid, protects her from the bullies, and they become best friends. With years spent growing up together, their friendship deepens. But when Enid prepares to celebrate her sixteenth birthday, Dylan gets into trouble. It turns out that Enid's best friend is a prince mentioned in the ancient prophecy and destined to save his kingdom from the dark powers. Queen Malagant takes Dylan, against his will, to the kingdom of Gwyllion. Enid joins forces with unexpected allies to find Dylan in the world of fae and help him fight evil.
In Tales of Witches and Wyverns, S. Ramsey offers fascinating world-building, almost making us believe that fae and other magical creatures walk among us. Ramsey's prose is imaginative and captivating. The author gives the ancient legends a fresh interpretation and pays tremendous attention to the details. Thus, Viviane, the witch, has eyes of different colors. Such details add zest to the narrative, which is action-packed and driven by the characters. Enid takes nothing for granted and has a strong sense of responsibility. Despite going through many difficulties, Enid never plays the damsel in distress. On the contrary, her measured approach to the challenges, willingness to learn, and commitment to the friend who needs her help reveal a strong-willed, practical person with a keen eye. So, it's not surprising that her weapon is a bow and arrow and that she is a skilled archer. Romance is an important part of the story, and Ramsey teases us with the possibility of a love triangle. I appreciated the proficiently crafted, intricate plot of Tales of Witches and Wyverns, its many intriguing twists and turns, and the author's profound knowledge of Welsh folklore.
Tales of Witches and Wyverns by S. Ramsey, the first book in a series, opens the doors of the legendary Isle of Affalon to young adult fans of fantasy, fairy tales, romance, and novels based on Welsh mythology. Enid suffers from nightmarish dreams that remind her of the loss of her mother. The other children bully her constantly. Dylan, a neighboring boy one year older than Enid, protects her from the bullies, and they become best friends. With years spent growing up together, their friendship deepens. But when Enid prepares to celebrate her sixteenth birthday, Dylan gets into trouble. It turns out that Enid's best friend is a prince mentioned in the ancient prophecy and destined to save his kingdom from the dark powers. Queen Malagant takes Dylan, against his will, to the kingdom of Gwyllion. Enid joins forces with unexpected allies to find Dylan in the world of fae and help him fight evil.
In Tales of Witches and Wyverns, S. Ramsey offers fascinating world-building, almost making us believe that fae and other magical creatures walk among us. Ramsey's prose is imaginative and captivating. The author gives the ancient legends a fresh interpretation and pays tremendous attention to the details. Thus, Viviane, the witch, has eyes of different colors. Such details add zest to the narrative, which is action-packed and driven by the characters. Enid takes nothing for granted and has a strong sense of responsibility. Despite going through many difficulties, Enid never plays the damsel in distress. On the contrary, her measured approach to the challenges, willingness to learn, and commitment to the friend who needs her help reveal a strong-willed, practical person with a keen eye. So, it's not surprising that her weapon is a bow and arrow and that she is a skilled archer. Romance is an important part of the story, and Ramsey teases us with the possibility of a love triangle. I appreciated the proficiently crafted, intricate plot of Tales of Witches and Wyverns, its many intriguing twists and turns, and the author's profound knowledge of Welsh folklore.
Recommend this book:
The Future King
Return of the Once Monarch
Vishnul Jain
2024 Gold Medal
323 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
In The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch by Vishnul Jain, the story opens with a captivating scene set in the halls of Oxford University. Professor Limren, a seemingly ordinary history professor, navigates through his daily routine, only to be confronted by echoes of his ancient past. As the modern-day persona of Merlin, Limren’s mundane existence is shattered when he senses a resurgence of magical disturbances. These unsettling signs signal the return of the Order of Rhamnusia, a shadowy cult determined to unleash the dark sorcery of Morgana. This inciting incident plunges Merlin back into the treacherous world of magic he had left behind, setting the stage for an epic battle that spans centuries.
Vishnul Jain's storytelling is masterful, weaving a rich tapestry of plot and character development that captivates fans of epic fantasy. The plot is a thrilling rollercoaster, deftly balancing intense action with deep emotional undercurrents. Merlin, portrayed as both powerful and vulnerable, is a deeply nuanced character whose journey of redemption is compelling. The secondary characters, from the enigmatic members of the Order to Merlin's allies, are equally well-developed, adding layers of intrigue and depth. The world-building is exceptional, seamlessly integrating elements of modern society with ancient magic, creating a setting that feels both familiar and fantastical. The Future King will undoubtedly appeal to readers who relish intricate fantasy worlds and timeless battles between good and evil, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Fantasy fans should definitely add this to their list of summer reading. It’s well worth it.
In The Future King: Return of the Once Monarch by Vishnul Jain, the story opens with a captivating scene set in the halls of Oxford University. Professor Limren, a seemingly ordinary history professor, navigates through his daily routine, only to be confronted by echoes of his ancient past. As the modern-day persona of Merlin, Limren’s mundane existence is shattered when he senses a resurgence of magical disturbances. These unsettling signs signal the return of the Order of Rhamnusia, a shadowy cult determined to unleash the dark sorcery of Morgana. This inciting incident plunges Merlin back into the treacherous world of magic he had left behind, setting the stage for an epic battle that spans centuries.
Vishnul Jain's storytelling is masterful, weaving a rich tapestry of plot and character development that captivates fans of epic fantasy. The plot is a thrilling rollercoaster, deftly balancing intense action with deep emotional undercurrents. Merlin, portrayed as both powerful and vulnerable, is a deeply nuanced character whose journey of redemption is compelling. The secondary characters, from the enigmatic members of the Order to Merlin's allies, are equally well-developed, adding layers of intrigue and depth. The world-building is exceptional, seamlessly integrating elements of modern society with ancient magic, creating a setting that feels both familiar and fantastical. The Future King will undoubtedly appeal to readers who relish intricate fantasy worlds and timeless battles between good and evil, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Fantasy fans should definitely add this to their list of summer reading. It’s well worth it.
Recommend this book:
Once Upon a Wonderland
DJ Stoneham
2023 Finalist
359 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Once Upon a Wonderland by DJ Stoneham is the second book in the standalone Wonderland stories. Alice realized that she agreed with her parents’ assessment of her character - headstrong and living in a dream world. She certainly used more double negatives than other girls. Though her parents didn’t believe in Wonderland, Alice knew this other world went beyond her imagination. She had settled back into society life, even enjoying time with her siblings, but soon she realized that she was being drawn back to Wonderland. Alice embarked on an epic journey into Wonderland where she searches for Jack Door in the Winter Forest and encounters an assortment of fairytale characters that have unique twists.
The prologue is a clever account of where Alice is when the story begins, seen through the perspective of her mother in her conversation with Mrs. Huxley. This conversation introduces the writing style and Alice’s attitude as they’re talking about her lack of a husband, stubbornness, and her hallucinations about talking animals. The writing is witty and the immediate cleverness in the style is reminiscent of the writing of the original Carroll stories and captures the classic attitude of Alice. The personality of Alice is incredibly well-rounded with a cheeky humor that fits the mold of the Alice we know. Her personality is quantified by her parents as being headstrong, stubborn, sharp-tongued, and living in a dream world. The world of Wonderland is a great backdrop, twisting common elements and characters such as Tweedledee, Tweedledum, Cheshire Cat, and the Hatter.
Fairytales take on new life with Zezolla as a Cinderella figure, Rapunzel, references to Little Red Riding Hood, and an interesting twist on Gaston, Belle, and the Beast that involves a court. Various themes are found throughout the story with poignant moments that are casually placed amidst the chaos, including hope being powerful and uplifting, fairytale characters intent on revenge, and being led astray by Queen of Hearts. Once Upon a Wonderland weaves a humorous, strange, original, and charming adventure with an assortment of fairytale characters.
Once Upon a Wonderland by DJ Stoneham is the second book in the standalone Wonderland stories. Alice realized that she agreed with her parents’ assessment of her character - headstrong and living in a dream world. She certainly used more double negatives than other girls. Though her parents didn’t believe in Wonderland, Alice knew this other world went beyond her imagination. She had settled back into society life, even enjoying time with her siblings, but soon she realized that she was being drawn back to Wonderland. Alice embarked on an epic journey into Wonderland where she searches for Jack Door in the Winter Forest and encounters an assortment of fairytale characters that have unique twists.
The prologue is a clever account of where Alice is when the story begins, seen through the perspective of her mother in her conversation with Mrs. Huxley. This conversation introduces the writing style and Alice’s attitude as they’re talking about her lack of a husband, stubbornness, and her hallucinations about talking animals. The writing is witty and the immediate cleverness in the style is reminiscent of the writing of the original Carroll stories and captures the classic attitude of Alice. The personality of Alice is incredibly well-rounded with a cheeky humor that fits the mold of the Alice we know. Her personality is quantified by her parents as being headstrong, stubborn, sharp-tongued, and living in a dream world. The world of Wonderland is a great backdrop, twisting common elements and characters such as Tweedledee, Tweedledum, Cheshire Cat, and the Hatter.
Fairytales take on new life with Zezolla as a Cinderella figure, Rapunzel, references to Little Red Riding Hood, and an interesting twist on Gaston, Belle, and the Beast that involves a court. Various themes are found throughout the story with poignant moments that are casually placed amidst the chaos, including hope being powerful and uplifting, fairytale characters intent on revenge, and being led astray by Queen of Hearts. Once Upon a Wonderland weaves a humorous, strange, original, and charming adventure with an assortment of fairytale characters.
Recommend this book:
Feathers of the Phoenix
The Atlantean Horse, book 1
Cheryl Carpinello
2023 Honorable Mention
149 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Beneath the water's surface between Kalymnos and Telendos lies an ancient city destroyed by an earthquake in 554 A.D. The two islands had once been one. Feathers of the Phoenix: The Atlantean Horse, Book 1 by Cheryl Carpinello sounds like the mythical story of the ancient city of Atlantis. Perhaps it is. Rosa, with her mystical ability to walk in two worlds, past and present, is being called to help rescue the residents who once flourished in the city that sank so long ago. She must find and protect the five feathers of the Phoenix, not an easy task as she must go back in time, as she’s done before, and fight unexpected and powerful apocalyptic horsemen who will do anything to possess these feathers. Accompanied by her cousin Jerome and her grandfather, she’s in for an adventure of a lifetime, perhaps multiple lifetimes.
Cheryl Carpinello’s young adult novel Feathers of the Phoenix is the first book in The Atlantean Horse series. Taking legend, ancient mythology, and the mystery of a sunken city, Atlantis, the author weaves an engaging and exciting tale that will attract even the most reluctant reader. Told in the first person narrative from Rosa’s point of view, the plot follows the young girl from her first encounter with a strange man who appears on her doorstep on a cold winter's day. She has been called because she can walk in two worlds and, as the stranger explains, “You are the one who must gather the Feathers on the Sun Days and bring them to the Atlantean Horse so that my people and my land can once more be united.” It’s an epic adventure, a task like no other. This is a great read for young people of all ages. I love how the author uses adventure to introduce young readers to Greek mythology and ancient history.
Beneath the water's surface between Kalymnos and Telendos lies an ancient city destroyed by an earthquake in 554 A.D. The two islands had once been one. Feathers of the Phoenix: The Atlantean Horse, Book 1 by Cheryl Carpinello sounds like the mythical story of the ancient city of Atlantis. Perhaps it is. Rosa, with her mystical ability to walk in two worlds, past and present, is being called to help rescue the residents who once flourished in the city that sank so long ago. She must find and protect the five feathers of the Phoenix, not an easy task as she must go back in time, as she’s done before, and fight unexpected and powerful apocalyptic horsemen who will do anything to possess these feathers. Accompanied by her cousin Jerome and her grandfather, she’s in for an adventure of a lifetime, perhaps multiple lifetimes.
Cheryl Carpinello’s young adult novel Feathers of the Phoenix is the first book in The Atlantean Horse series. Taking legend, ancient mythology, and the mystery of a sunken city, Atlantis, the author weaves an engaging and exciting tale that will attract even the most reluctant reader. Told in the first person narrative from Rosa’s point of view, the plot follows the young girl from her first encounter with a strange man who appears on her doorstep on a cold winter's day. She has been called because she can walk in two worlds and, as the stranger explains, “You are the one who must gather the Feathers on the Sun Days and bring them to the Atlantean Horse so that my people and my land can once more be united.” It’s an epic adventure, a task like no other. This is a great read for young people of all ages. I love how the author uses adventure to introduce young readers to Greek mythology and ancient history.
Recommend this book:
Blood Ties
The King's Chosen
L. Waithman
2023 Bronze Medal
344 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Blood Ties: The King's Chosen by L. Waithman is a mid-grade coming of age fantasy adventure that revolves around a youth named Lucas, who finds himself alone and without a family after witnessing his father, bound and tied, die by the sword before his very eyes. Lucas is taken in by Father Ansan at the monastery where Lucas had already been visiting. He is sheltered and educated, and eventually initiated into the warrior monk order. He then, quite literally, runs off with the circus. His visibility puts him in view of the king, who singles Lucas out in the belief that he is of the bloodline of powerful ancient warriors, now known as “the chosen”. The murder of Lucas' father and its tie-in to who Lucas is, and who he is meant to become, begin to truly unfold against a fully immersive medieval backdrop.
I'm not embarrassed to say that I fell in love with a mid-grade book and that the amount of fun I had reading Blood Ties: The King's Chosen meant that my real mid-grade reader had to wait. L. Waithman writes a pretty straightforward medieval fantasy but is able to harness enough unique elements to put her own stamp on it. I loved the character of Zera, a strong, capable, and witty girl who also happens to carry the chosen bloodline; a virtually unheard-of anomaly of a female carrying the line because she is a twin, whose brother is among the chosen. I also love how no matter who Lucas becomes or where he travels, the monastery is always the home he can return to. He turns to the monastery at his first loss, and this comes full circle when Lucas is in dire need again. The writing is excellent, the pacing is perfect, and the storyline is both intriguing and appropriate for readers of any age. And their mothers. Very highly recommended.
Blood Ties: The King's Chosen by L. Waithman is a mid-grade coming of age fantasy adventure that revolves around a youth named Lucas, who finds himself alone and without a family after witnessing his father, bound and tied, die by the sword before his very eyes. Lucas is taken in by Father Ansan at the monastery where Lucas had already been visiting. He is sheltered and educated, and eventually initiated into the warrior monk order. He then, quite literally, runs off with the circus. His visibility puts him in view of the king, who singles Lucas out in the belief that he is of the bloodline of powerful ancient warriors, now known as “the chosen”. The murder of Lucas' father and its tie-in to who Lucas is, and who he is meant to become, begin to truly unfold against a fully immersive medieval backdrop.
I'm not embarrassed to say that I fell in love with a mid-grade book and that the amount of fun I had reading Blood Ties: The King's Chosen meant that my real mid-grade reader had to wait. L. Waithman writes a pretty straightforward medieval fantasy but is able to harness enough unique elements to put her own stamp on it. I loved the character of Zera, a strong, capable, and witty girl who also happens to carry the chosen bloodline; a virtually unheard-of anomaly of a female carrying the line because she is a twin, whose brother is among the chosen. I also love how no matter who Lucas becomes or where he travels, the monastery is always the home he can return to. He turns to the monastery at his first loss, and this comes full circle when Lucas is in dire need again. The writing is excellent, the pacing is perfect, and the storyline is both intriguing and appropriate for readers of any age. And their mothers. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Quarter Mage
Angelina J. Steffort
2023 Silver Medal
560 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
The Quarter Mage by Angelina J. Steffort is a fantasy novel and the first book in a new series by the same name. Sanja, a human princess and runaway bride, flees a cruel court and a grotesque bloodbath to save her neck. Assuming a new identity, Sanja enters the fairylands, a place that no reasonable person would even consider visiting, especially one who was groomed to do little more than sit on a throne and pop out the next generation of royals. In the sheltered world of the fae is a magic system accessible to Sanja as a human but, even if she'd known about it, she had certainly never been exposed to it. Ultimately, it's the mages that keep Sanja from becoming a fae fatality and one, in particular, Tristan, that also may provide Sanja with a sanctuary of the heart and some magic of her own. As it turns out, she will need both in abundance.
The Quarter Mage is a fun fantasy with a lot going for it and, as the first in the series, has so many ways it can still evolve. Angelina J. Steffort has a knack for threading tension through each scene and crafting a landscape that feels immersive and authentic. The writing is ideal for young adults and has the necessary quick dive into Sanja's liking for Tristan, which impatient readers will relish. I am a fan of cutting to the chase so this worked out wonderfully for me, kept the storyline at a steady pace, and allowed the plot to unfold faster without too much romantic baggage. There's a delicious twist to this that hits hard later, as Steffort dangles a triangle in front of our faces that locks the reader in for book two, The Hour Mage. I love the trials, the focused-femme fight that Sanja grows into, and look forward to what Steffort has in store for us and Sanja's coming of age next. Highly recommended.
The Quarter Mage by Angelina J. Steffort is a fantasy novel and the first book in a new series by the same name. Sanja, a human princess and runaway bride, flees a cruel court and a grotesque bloodbath to save her neck. Assuming a new identity, Sanja enters the fairylands, a place that no reasonable person would even consider visiting, especially one who was groomed to do little more than sit on a throne and pop out the next generation of royals. In the sheltered world of the fae is a magic system accessible to Sanja as a human but, even if she'd known about it, she had certainly never been exposed to it. Ultimately, it's the mages that keep Sanja from becoming a fae fatality and one, in particular, Tristan, that also may provide Sanja with a sanctuary of the heart and some magic of her own. As it turns out, she will need both in abundance.
The Quarter Mage is a fun fantasy with a lot going for it and, as the first in the series, has so many ways it can still evolve. Angelina J. Steffort has a knack for threading tension through each scene and crafting a landscape that feels immersive and authentic. The writing is ideal for young adults and has the necessary quick dive into Sanja's liking for Tristan, which impatient readers will relish. I am a fan of cutting to the chase so this worked out wonderfully for me, kept the storyline at a steady pace, and allowed the plot to unfold faster without too much romantic baggage. There's a delicious twist to this that hits hard later, as Steffort dangles a triangle in front of our faces that locks the reader in for book two, The Hour Mage. I love the trials, the focused-femme fight that Sanja grows into, and look forward to what Steffort has in store for us and Sanja's coming of age next. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Where the Magic Lies
Perils of Portia Saga #1
Hermione Lee
2023 Gold Medal
245 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Cecelia Hopkins for Readers' Favorite
Where the Magic Lies: Perils of Portia Saga #1 by Hermione Lee commences as Amethyst and her mother bring home a log. They are shocked to be confronted by fairies who accuse them of stealing treasure. The penalty is death, but Amethyst bravely offers herself to save her mother’s life. The fairies agree on the condition she moves to the kingdom of Portia and marries Prince Angus. At first, Amethyst is homesick and attempts to run away. Then she and Angus fall in love. This section of the story included descriptions of Amethyst’s princess wardrobe and created a literary fashion parade! But even as Amethyst is settling down, someone is trying to murder her! The mystery has to be solved, and the villains overcome in an explosive confrontation before Prince Angus can propose to her.
Where the Magic Lies by Hermione Lee was charmingly written and well-targeted for the young adult audience. I enjoyed the refreshing innocence of the main character and felt I was privileged to share the emotions of first love. The plot included magic, suspense, and drama, beautifully narrated in the heroine’s fresh young voice. The fairy-tale scenario provided a sophisticated exploration of coming of age and independence issues as Amethyst missed her mother and faced challenges in her new environment. The story evoked a sense of empathy for the character of Prince Angus who underwent a coming-of-age process of his own. This is the perfect girl's book, specially written for the entertainment of young adults, and as a mature lady, I also found it incredibly appealing.
Where the Magic Lies: Perils of Portia Saga #1 by Hermione Lee commences as Amethyst and her mother bring home a log. They are shocked to be confronted by fairies who accuse them of stealing treasure. The penalty is death, but Amethyst bravely offers herself to save her mother’s life. The fairies agree on the condition she moves to the kingdom of Portia and marries Prince Angus. At first, Amethyst is homesick and attempts to run away. Then she and Angus fall in love. This section of the story included descriptions of Amethyst’s princess wardrobe and created a literary fashion parade! But even as Amethyst is settling down, someone is trying to murder her! The mystery has to be solved, and the villains overcome in an explosive confrontation before Prince Angus can propose to her.
Where the Magic Lies by Hermione Lee was charmingly written and well-targeted for the young adult audience. I enjoyed the refreshing innocence of the main character and felt I was privileged to share the emotions of first love. The plot included magic, suspense, and drama, beautifully narrated in the heroine’s fresh young voice. The fairy-tale scenario provided a sophisticated exploration of coming of age and independence issues as Amethyst missed her mother and faced challenges in her new environment. The story evoked a sense of empathy for the character of Prince Angus who underwent a coming-of-age process of his own. This is the perfect girl's book, specially written for the entertainment of young adults, and as a mature lady, I also found it incredibly appealing.
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