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Recommend this book:
Around Curiosity's Edge
Hidden Meridians
J P Hostetler
2021 Gold Medal
365 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Around Curiosity's Edge: Hidden Meridians by JP Hostetler is an action-packed journey about hope, destiny, and second chances. Salem is embarking on an adventure to Easterly where he discovers a secret world of schemes and secrets, bringing his imagination to life right before his eyes. He doesn't know what to expect when he moves onto the boat where his uncle lives or the secret world he'll soon discover. Salem felt like his life was out of his control with no parents; social anxiety had kept him out of school over the last few years. So after losing his mother, he's sent to live with his uncle until his upcoming birthday when they'll reassess if any adjustments are necessary. He never expected to discover a place for himself on this unusual ship and shocking secrets about his own family origins.
The book features an ensemble group of characters that are vividly created thanks to their dynamic and layered personalities. JP Hostetler has successfully delivered a character-driven plot that makes you feel like you get to know them individually. Salem is at the heart of the story, with initially no idea of this hidden world, but he grew up with a vast imagination where he saw giants, trolls, talking animals, and other magical creatures. He has no idea who his father was but he keeps his journal close and gave up asking questions about him. The search for the truth for his father is a key element to his journey and what he discovers about himself. He's reunited with an uncle he hasn't seen in years and is currently living on a ship where he is introduced to a variety of characters, including a sloth named Atlas. This bond opens up an opportunity for healing his uncle's past and giving Salem a chance at his future. The story has intricate themes seen throughout such as Curiosity, which is a catalyst into second chances, magic, and a brighter future. The world is full of twists on classic beings such as gnomes who aren't pleased with how humans have forced them to care for their gardens. Around Curiosity's Edge is a fascinating, character-driven epic fantasy adventure about curiosity, family, connection, new beginnings, hope, and charting one's own destiny.
Around Curiosity's Edge: Hidden Meridians by JP Hostetler is an action-packed journey about hope, destiny, and second chances. Salem is embarking on an adventure to Easterly where he discovers a secret world of schemes and secrets, bringing his imagination to life right before his eyes. He doesn't know what to expect when he moves onto the boat where his uncle lives or the secret world he'll soon discover. Salem felt like his life was out of his control with no parents; social anxiety had kept him out of school over the last few years. So after losing his mother, he's sent to live with his uncle until his upcoming birthday when they'll reassess if any adjustments are necessary. He never expected to discover a place for himself on this unusual ship and shocking secrets about his own family origins.
The book features an ensemble group of characters that are vividly created thanks to their dynamic and layered personalities. JP Hostetler has successfully delivered a character-driven plot that makes you feel like you get to know them individually. Salem is at the heart of the story, with initially no idea of this hidden world, but he grew up with a vast imagination where he saw giants, trolls, talking animals, and other magical creatures. He has no idea who his father was but he keeps his journal close and gave up asking questions about him. The search for the truth for his father is a key element to his journey and what he discovers about himself. He's reunited with an uncle he hasn't seen in years and is currently living on a ship where he is introduced to a variety of characters, including a sloth named Atlas. This bond opens up an opportunity for healing his uncle's past and giving Salem a chance at his future. The story has intricate themes seen throughout such as Curiosity, which is a catalyst into second chances, magic, and a brighter future. The world is full of twists on classic beings such as gnomes who aren't pleased with how humans have forced them to care for their gardens. Around Curiosity's Edge is a fascinating, character-driven epic fantasy adventure about curiosity, family, connection, new beginnings, hope, and charting one's own destiny.
Recommend this book:
The Ring of Mann
Circles of Time
David Thomas Kay
2021 Silver Medal
530 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Ring of Mann is the second book in the Circles of Time series by David Thomas Kay and is a well-written novel for fans of historical fiction and fantasy. Fans of psychological thrillers will enjoy this narrative. It is set in the English Lake District in 1663, a locality that is rife with folklore and tales of witches and where people live in fear of the devil. It is here that a runic ring and a black Arabian horse unleash the ghost of a female Viking warrior. A young innocent widow is possessed. The story follows very captivating and richly developed characters. A woodcutter’s disappearance is blamed on three young cousins and while Major Rathbone continues to persecute the Quakers, the young cousins must flee from the Major’s son, Rufus, who is after them with his Constables. It is pulsating and filled with action and romance.
The story is captivating and transporting, with a setting that is vividly described and where the day-to-day life of the characters is aptly captured with strong imagery. Readers are confronted with a culture enriched by superstitious beliefs and where people live in fear of those who hold power in the land and spiritual forces. Mary is one of my favorite characters, a widow of Viking descent, and one of the key characters in the story. Her brother is another interesting character and he, a gravedigger, epitomizes the superstitious nature of the people of the town. Thomas is one of the characters that I followed and his role in the narrative is indispensable. The writing is suspenseful and filled with situations that are strangely familiar and characters that, though living in another time and culture, are believable and memorable. The Ring of Mann has a setting that is well-written and I loved the way the author captures the details of the landscape, the politics of the town, and the general beliefs of the common people. It is highly descriptive and sprinkled with well-crafted dialogues. David Thomas Kay just became one of my favorite fantasy writers and the way he mixes fantasy and mystery won me over.
The Ring of Mann is the second book in the Circles of Time series by David Thomas Kay and is a well-written novel for fans of historical fiction and fantasy. Fans of psychological thrillers will enjoy this narrative. It is set in the English Lake District in 1663, a locality that is rife with folklore and tales of witches and where people live in fear of the devil. It is here that a runic ring and a black Arabian horse unleash the ghost of a female Viking warrior. A young innocent widow is possessed. The story follows very captivating and richly developed characters. A woodcutter’s disappearance is blamed on three young cousins and while Major Rathbone continues to persecute the Quakers, the young cousins must flee from the Major’s son, Rufus, who is after them with his Constables. It is pulsating and filled with action and romance.
The story is captivating and transporting, with a setting that is vividly described and where the day-to-day life of the characters is aptly captured with strong imagery. Readers are confronted with a culture enriched by superstitious beliefs and where people live in fear of those who hold power in the land and spiritual forces. Mary is one of my favorite characters, a widow of Viking descent, and one of the key characters in the story. Her brother is another interesting character and he, a gravedigger, epitomizes the superstitious nature of the people of the town. Thomas is one of the characters that I followed and his role in the narrative is indispensable. The writing is suspenseful and filled with situations that are strangely familiar and characters that, though living in another time and culture, are believable and memorable. The Ring of Mann has a setting that is well-written and I loved the way the author captures the details of the landscape, the politics of the town, and the general beliefs of the common people. It is highly descriptive and sprinkled with well-crafted dialogues. David Thomas Kay just became one of my favorite fantasy writers and the way he mixes fantasy and mystery won me over.
Recommend this book:
 by Daniel Kelly is a historical event/era fictional novel that would appeal to a mixed audience of young adults and adults who enjoy fiction centered on the time period of the Trojan war. The Trojan war has come to an end and left Troy in ruin, with Agamemnon retreating to Mycaenea, and the Trojan survivors searchi...){kind=link}
A Hero's Welcome
Heroes of Troy
Daniel Kelly
2021 Bronze Medal
274 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Sefina Hawke for Readers' Favorite
A Hero's Welcome (Heroes of Troy) by Daniel Kelly is a historical event/era fictional novel that would appeal to a mixed audience of young adults and adults who enjoy fiction centered on the time period of the Trojan war. The Trojan war has come to an end and left Troy in ruin, with Agamemnon retreating to Mycaenea, and the Trojan survivors searching for sanctuary. While this might seem like the end of the story, Achilles’ son, Pyrrhus, is determined to prove his mettle by hunting down the Trojan survivors who escaped the massacre thanks to Odysseus’ aid. Will Odysseus manage to reach the survivors in time to warn them of the danger or will they all perish?
A Hero's Welcome (Heroes of Troy) by Daniel Kelly is a very well-written book with an appealing cover image and a description that grabbed my attention right from the start. I have read books and watched movies with different takes on the Trojan war, but this is the first book I have ever read that focused on the aftermath of the fall of Troy. I really liked this change from the norm, as its uniqueness was quite enjoyable. I really liked the role that Achilles’ son and Odysseus played in the plot. I especially liked how the author chose to start this book with a section titled: “The Story So Far”. This section helped me to quickly understand the events that took place prior to this book and helped me to avoid any plot and character confusion. Overall, this was a great read and I hope the author decides to continue adding his unique take to the historical fiction genre in the future.
A Hero's Welcome (Heroes of Troy) by Daniel Kelly is a historical event/era fictional novel that would appeal to a mixed audience of young adults and adults who enjoy fiction centered on the time period of the Trojan war. The Trojan war has come to an end and left Troy in ruin, with Agamemnon retreating to Mycaenea, and the Trojan survivors searching for sanctuary. While this might seem like the end of the story, Achilles’ son, Pyrrhus, is determined to prove his mettle by hunting down the Trojan survivors who escaped the massacre thanks to Odysseus’ aid. Will Odysseus manage to reach the survivors in time to warn them of the danger or will they all perish?
A Hero's Welcome (Heroes of Troy) by Daniel Kelly is a very well-written book with an appealing cover image and a description that grabbed my attention right from the start. I have read books and watched movies with different takes on the Trojan war, but this is the first book I have ever read that focused on the aftermath of the fall of Troy. I really liked this change from the norm, as its uniqueness was quite enjoyable. I really liked the role that Achilles’ son and Odysseus played in the plot. I especially liked how the author chose to start this book with a section titled: “The Story So Far”. This section helped me to quickly understand the events that took place prior to this book and helped me to avoid any plot and character confusion. Overall, this was a great read and I hope the author decides to continue adding his unique take to the historical fiction genre in the future.
Recommend this book:
Wild Open Faces
Book 2 in the Wild and Ruin Trilogy
Jennifer G. Edelson
2021 Honorable Mention
354 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Wild Open Faces by Jennifer G. Edelson is the second book in the Wild and Ruin trilogy. Since Ruby moved to La Luna, her life has undergone several changes from discovering that the mysterious Leo was actually the alluring Ezra, uncovering a gateway to the Otherworld, and learning that her origins aren't as simple as she thought. Now, she's settled into her new life with a deepening relationship with Ezra, anticipating graduation just around the corner, and an exciting internship at a nearby archaeological dig. But nothing is ever simple. Her friend Angel's father returns to unveil a shocking truth which comes with family drama that finds Ruby caught in the middle. As she digs deeper into her archaeological role, the discovery of mysterious artifacts unearthed at the dig come with a connection to an ancient Aztec city, but her role threatens to drive a wedge between her and Ezra. As secrets come to light, Ruby comes to understand what it means to fulfill her role as True of Heart.
This is a dazzling sequel that's even better than the first with Jennifer G. Edelson delivering more surprises, more drama, more secrets, and more addictive mythology. The Aztec mythology is woven in seamlessly with Edelson crafting this stunning Otherworld that seeps into our own through artifacts, gods, and creatures. The mythological elements bring a breath of fresh air into the supernatural/fantasy genre and serve as an amazing treat for those that love stories based on myth. Edelson weaves drama into Ruby's life through her family, friends, and romantic relationships which are rooted in secrets and discovery. Ruby is a realistic character that deals with moments of insecurity, jealousy, stubbornness, and anger which create a realness about her that gives her voice strength. The dig site is an important location to Ruby's origins and to the mythology with artifacts and a connection to the Otherworld. Wild Open Faces creates high standards for all sequels to reach with the use of a rich voice, the use of mythology, a blooming romance, the addictive drama, the uncovered secrets, and the next notch in Ruby's journey.
Wild Open Faces by Jennifer G. Edelson is the second book in the Wild and Ruin trilogy. Since Ruby moved to La Luna, her life has undergone several changes from discovering that the mysterious Leo was actually the alluring Ezra, uncovering a gateway to the Otherworld, and learning that her origins aren't as simple as she thought. Now, she's settled into her new life with a deepening relationship with Ezra, anticipating graduation just around the corner, and an exciting internship at a nearby archaeological dig. But nothing is ever simple. Her friend Angel's father returns to unveil a shocking truth which comes with family drama that finds Ruby caught in the middle. As she digs deeper into her archaeological role, the discovery of mysterious artifacts unearthed at the dig come with a connection to an ancient Aztec city, but her role threatens to drive a wedge between her and Ezra. As secrets come to light, Ruby comes to understand what it means to fulfill her role as True of Heart.
This is a dazzling sequel that's even better than the first with Jennifer G. Edelson delivering more surprises, more drama, more secrets, and more addictive mythology. The Aztec mythology is woven in seamlessly with Edelson crafting this stunning Otherworld that seeps into our own through artifacts, gods, and creatures. The mythological elements bring a breath of fresh air into the supernatural/fantasy genre and serve as an amazing treat for those that love stories based on myth. Edelson weaves drama into Ruby's life through her family, friends, and romantic relationships which are rooted in secrets and discovery. Ruby is a realistic character that deals with moments of insecurity, jealousy, stubbornness, and anger which create a realness about her that gives her voice strength. The dig site is an important location to Ruby's origins and to the mythology with artifacts and a connection to the Otherworld. Wild Open Faces creates high standards for all sequels to reach with the use of a rich voice, the use of mythology, a blooming romance, the addictive drama, the uncovered secrets, and the next notch in Ruby's journey.
Recommend this book:
Northern Lights, Southern Stars
A Fantasy Fairy Tale Retelling of Snow White
C. S. Johnson
2021 Finalist
382 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Northern Lights, Southern Stars is a work of fiction in the fantasy and fairy tale retelling sub-genres and was penned by author C. S. Johnson. Suitable for all readers from young adult audiences upwards, this fascinating retelling of Snow White contains themes of racial identity, faith and struggles with family ties. Our protagonist is Ebony, the princess of the Southern Colonies, who is forced into royal servitude by the death of her father. Varyes, Queen of Pommier, takes the role of the wicked stepmother, and when her own son tries to help Ebony through her grief, the queen will stop at nothing to target Ebony and further her own power in the process.
Author C. S. Johnson has crafted a truly superb narrative that brings the structure of the Snow White tale right up to date in a truly unique fantasy setting. I really loved the effort that has gone into the worldbuilding of this piece, crafting a land with French and African influences and a solid political structure in which to ground the story. In terms of character development, Ebony is a relatable heroine with strong emotions that we can feel through the well crafted narrative style, but she also represents much larger issues in the modern world. Undergoing her tough coming of age tale amid deception, racial identity and affairs of the heart is a powerful journey that fans of fairytale and modern fantasy alike will be certain to enjoy. Overall, Northern Lights, Southern Stars comes as a highly recommended read.
Northern Lights, Southern Stars is a work of fiction in the fantasy and fairy tale retelling sub-genres and was penned by author C. S. Johnson. Suitable for all readers from young adult audiences upwards, this fascinating retelling of Snow White contains themes of racial identity, faith and struggles with family ties. Our protagonist is Ebony, the princess of the Southern Colonies, who is forced into royal servitude by the death of her father. Varyes, Queen of Pommier, takes the role of the wicked stepmother, and when her own son tries to help Ebony through her grief, the queen will stop at nothing to target Ebony and further her own power in the process.
Author C. S. Johnson has crafted a truly superb narrative that brings the structure of the Snow White tale right up to date in a truly unique fantasy setting. I really loved the effort that has gone into the worldbuilding of this piece, crafting a land with French and African influences and a solid political structure in which to ground the story. In terms of character development, Ebony is a relatable heroine with strong emotions that we can feel through the well crafted narrative style, but she also represents much larger issues in the modern world. Undergoing her tough coming of age tale amid deception, racial identity and affairs of the heart is a powerful journey that fans of fairytale and modern fantasy alike will be certain to enjoy. Overall, Northern Lights, Southern Stars comes as a highly recommended read.
Recommend this book:
Between Wild and Ruin
Jennifer G. Edelson
2020 Gold Medal
363 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
Between Wild and Ruin is a young adult paranormal fantasy novel written by Jennifer G. Edelson. La Luna, New Mexico was a far cry from Ruby’s native Los Angeles. She still wasn’t quite sure why her Aunt Liddy had decided to drag the two of them this far east after Ruby’s mom passed. Before Ruby realized it, Liddy had it all planned: she had found herself a place on the university staff and registered Ruby for her senior year of high school. When Ruby finally did take in the grandeur of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the tidy wooden house nestled amongst towering pines, Ruby couldn’t help but be awed by her new surroundings. La Luna was a tiny place, and their initial visit to the local grocery store for provisions led to a most unusual encounter with a boy about Ruby’s age. Later that night, she noticed a mountain lion standing by the stream that passed by their house. Yes, it was a magical place. The artist in Ruby couldn’t wait to get out there and capture it with her charcoals.
Jennifer G. Edelson’s paranormal fantasy for young and new adults, Between Wild and Ruin, held me entranced as I vicariously fell in love with La Luna and the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and I had to stop myself from googling New Mexico and considering how I might find my own wooden retreat on the side of a mountain. Edelson eloquently brings the majesty and beauty of that location to life and exploring the paths and ruins along with Ruby was a real treat. Between Wild and Ruin is also one of the more inspired coming-of-age books I’ve read in some time. Following Ruby as she navigates senior year in a new high school and copes with the scrutinizing and often hostile gazes trained upon her as the new girl was inspiring, and seeing as she befriends the angry and hostile Ezra kept me engaged and immersed in the story. The paranormal aspects of the tale are credible and richly steeped in traditional lore, and the plot is finely crafted. Edelson’s characters quickly began to feel real and alive. Between Wild and Ruin is most highly recommended.
Between Wild and Ruin is a young adult paranormal fantasy novel written by Jennifer G. Edelson. La Luna, New Mexico was a far cry from Ruby’s native Los Angeles. She still wasn’t quite sure why her Aunt Liddy had decided to drag the two of them this far east after Ruby’s mom passed. Before Ruby realized it, Liddy had it all planned: she had found herself a place on the university staff and registered Ruby for her senior year of high school. When Ruby finally did take in the grandeur of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the tidy wooden house nestled amongst towering pines, Ruby couldn’t help but be awed by her new surroundings. La Luna was a tiny place, and their initial visit to the local grocery store for provisions led to a most unusual encounter with a boy about Ruby’s age. Later that night, she noticed a mountain lion standing by the stream that passed by their house. Yes, it was a magical place. The artist in Ruby couldn’t wait to get out there and capture it with her charcoals.
Jennifer G. Edelson’s paranormal fantasy for young and new adults, Between Wild and Ruin, held me entranced as I vicariously fell in love with La Luna and the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and I had to stop myself from googling New Mexico and considering how I might find my own wooden retreat on the side of a mountain. Edelson eloquently brings the majesty and beauty of that location to life and exploring the paths and ruins along with Ruby was a real treat. Between Wild and Ruin is also one of the more inspired coming-of-age books I’ve read in some time. Following Ruby as she navigates senior year in a new high school and copes with the scrutinizing and often hostile gazes trained upon her as the new girl was inspiring, and seeing as she befriends the angry and hostile Ezra kept me engaged and immersed in the story. The paranormal aspects of the tale are credible and richly steeped in traditional lore, and the plot is finely crafted. Edelson’s characters quickly began to feel real and alive. Between Wild and Ruin is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Atlantis Bloodline
C.A. Gray
2020 Silver Medal
482 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
The Atlantis Bloodline by C.A. Gray is an interesting narrative that combines elements of urban fantasy with mythology and romance to create an exciting reading experience. Ada Edwards can’t believe that Kaison Hughes, the attractive lead singer in one of the most adored bands in the world, shows an interest in her. She finds him irresistible even if there are glaring signs that he has a secret. What she doesn’t know is that Kai is not who he seems and that he is a member of a powerful organization and on a mission to bring her to the ranks of descendants of Atlantis. Ada is the only existing link to a lost line and a coveted gem. But Kai is falling in love and there is more at stake, including his sister’s freedom and his fame.
This is a highly imaginative story with deep layers in the plot. When the story starts, readers feel they are encountering normal characters, but as it progresses, new depths are uncovered and deeper dimensions of the characters are explored. It is not an ordinary story, and I enjoyed how C.A. Gray moves from the simplicity of the ordinary lives of the characters to the deeper, magical world into which their roots are planted. The prose is gorgeous, the overall writing enjoyable, and the setting filled with magical elements. The author did a wonderful job in writing about the romance and the twist is what many readers won’t see coming. The Atlantis Bloodline is a fascinating story with strong hints of mythology, a page-turner from a great storyteller.
The Atlantis Bloodline by C.A. Gray is an interesting narrative that combines elements of urban fantasy with mythology and romance to create an exciting reading experience. Ada Edwards can’t believe that Kaison Hughes, the attractive lead singer in one of the most adored bands in the world, shows an interest in her. She finds him irresistible even if there are glaring signs that he has a secret. What she doesn’t know is that Kai is not who he seems and that he is a member of a powerful organization and on a mission to bring her to the ranks of descendants of Atlantis. Ada is the only existing link to a lost line and a coveted gem. But Kai is falling in love and there is more at stake, including his sister’s freedom and his fame.
This is a highly imaginative story with deep layers in the plot. When the story starts, readers feel they are encountering normal characters, but as it progresses, new depths are uncovered and deeper dimensions of the characters are explored. It is not an ordinary story, and I enjoyed how C.A. Gray moves from the simplicity of the ordinary lives of the characters to the deeper, magical world into which their roots are planted. The prose is gorgeous, the overall writing enjoyable, and the setting filled with magical elements. The author did a wonderful job in writing about the romance and the twist is what many readers won’t see coming. The Atlantis Bloodline is a fascinating story with strong hints of mythology, a page-turner from a great storyteller.
Recommend this book:
Monster Academy
Catherine Banks
2020 Bronze Medal
246 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Monster Academy by Catherine Banks is the first book in an exciting monster series. Frances, Tsukiko, and Loralie are three best friends that attend Monster Academy and have a strong bond that gets them through every growing pain in their monster teenage years and especially when dealing with boys. Teenage life isn’t easy as the three work to navigate their crushes, helping a friend with a problem, and still managing to attend class. Monsters have led a peaceful existence hidden away from the threat of humans, but the threat soon comes to their front door when the students are held for ransom. The three friends must band together to save not just their fellow students but everyone they love.
This is a delightful monster tale that weaves classic monsters, mythology, and teenagers, telling the story through three distinct voices as each of the girls is facing their own family situations, crush, and self-discovery. The three girls are a delightful blend of monster and teenager with angst and supernatural abilities, with each of them struggling with a crush that is opposite to what they are. This creates conflict and humor as well as an interesting romantic balance. Catherine Banks has fun with the chemistry between each couple and the balance between them: Loralie is the daughter of death and is a reaper whose love interest is the immortal son of Baba Yaga, Tsukiko is a wolf whose love interest is a naga (a snake), and Frances was created by Dr. Frankenstein and her love interest is a phoenix (fire). They have three separate individual journeys, but each weaves together as the bond between them is at the heart of the story. The story has several twists on creatures from mythology, classic literature, and fairytales, which introduces readers to a unique take on Baba Yaga, harpies, Lucifer, and more. Monster Academy is a fun and unique read that is addictive, humorous, and emotional with moments of friendship, monsters, and angsty romance.
Monster Academy by Catherine Banks is the first book in an exciting monster series. Frances, Tsukiko, and Loralie are three best friends that attend Monster Academy and have a strong bond that gets them through every growing pain in their monster teenage years and especially when dealing with boys. Teenage life isn’t easy as the three work to navigate their crushes, helping a friend with a problem, and still managing to attend class. Monsters have led a peaceful existence hidden away from the threat of humans, but the threat soon comes to their front door when the students are held for ransom. The three friends must band together to save not just their fellow students but everyone they love.
This is a delightful monster tale that weaves classic monsters, mythology, and teenagers, telling the story through three distinct voices as each of the girls is facing their own family situations, crush, and self-discovery. The three girls are a delightful blend of monster and teenager with angst and supernatural abilities, with each of them struggling with a crush that is opposite to what they are. This creates conflict and humor as well as an interesting romantic balance. Catherine Banks has fun with the chemistry between each couple and the balance between them: Loralie is the daughter of death and is a reaper whose love interest is the immortal son of Baba Yaga, Tsukiko is a wolf whose love interest is a naga (a snake), and Frances was created by Dr. Frankenstein and her love interest is a phoenix (fire). They have three separate individual journeys, but each weaves together as the bond between them is at the heart of the story. The story has several twists on creatures from mythology, classic literature, and fairytales, which introduces readers to a unique take on Baba Yaga, harpies, Lucifer, and more. Monster Academy is a fun and unique read that is addictive, humorous, and emotional with moments of friendship, monsters, and angsty romance.
Recommend this book:
The Time Before The Moon
Kameron Williams
2020 Honorable Mention
165 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By A. L. Peevey for Readers' Favorite
Kameron Williams has written a novel about the world before the moon shone in the night sky. The Time Before The Moon is the story of Omi, who, at first, seems like any of a dozen other boys. He seeks the best flint for his spear, he dutifully goes to the village Seer to receive enlightenment, he tries to woo the girl of his dreams, and he goes hunting with his friends. Then one day he begins to doubt the leadership and teachings of the Seer and secretly questions the Seer’s supposed connection to the gods. But to question the Seer is to risk being “cleansed”, a fate worse than death. When a cruel rival crushes his most prized hope, Omi flees into the wild, leaving behind everything and everyone dear to him in search of freedom. But will he find it?
Kameron Williams’ The Time Before The Moon has an authenticity to it. This shows in the descriptions of the labor intensive processes the characters use for creating their homes and weapons. The culture of The Time Before The Moon is the Stone Age. The characters possess nothing that they have not crafted themselves. If they are going to eat, they must hunt for their food and plan for the future. The author describes all of this in fascinating detail, but has also written a compelling story with characters that readers care about. We experience Omi’s curiosity, love, hunger, and intensity first hand, and we yearn to find out if he and the others will find what they seek: freedom from rules and traditions that have no real worth. The Time Before The Moon comes highly recommended.
Kameron Williams has written a novel about the world before the moon shone in the night sky. The Time Before The Moon is the story of Omi, who, at first, seems like any of a dozen other boys. He seeks the best flint for his spear, he dutifully goes to the village Seer to receive enlightenment, he tries to woo the girl of his dreams, and he goes hunting with his friends. Then one day he begins to doubt the leadership and teachings of the Seer and secretly questions the Seer’s supposed connection to the gods. But to question the Seer is to risk being “cleansed”, a fate worse than death. When a cruel rival crushes his most prized hope, Omi flees into the wild, leaving behind everything and everyone dear to him in search of freedom. But will he find it?
Kameron Williams’ The Time Before The Moon has an authenticity to it. This shows in the descriptions of the labor intensive processes the characters use for creating their homes and weapons. The culture of The Time Before The Moon is the Stone Age. The characters possess nothing that they have not crafted themselves. If they are going to eat, they must hunt for their food and plan for the future. The author describes all of this in fascinating detail, but has also written a compelling story with characters that readers care about. We experience Omi’s curiosity, love, hunger, and intensity first hand, and we yearn to find out if he and the others will find what they seek: freedom from rules and traditions that have no real worth. The Time Before The Moon comes highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Misplaced
Joined Book Two
Mara Gan
2020 Finalist
413 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed By Deborah Adams for Readers' Favorite
Misplaced by Mara Gan is the second book in the Joined series. After the explosive first book, our main character, Meda, lands on a deserted beach with no memory of who she is or her past. The island she makes her home is cruel and far more primitive than the high-tech world of the first book, Joined. This second installment could almost be read as a standalone as not much carries over from book one until the end. The characters essentially start over as if they have never met because of their memory loss. Readers will be drawn into the romance as Meda and Perseus experience the same magnetic attraction that drew them together the first time.
Meda is a character with a lot of heart. Without knowing who she is, her time spent in the city of Akrotiri is fraught with hardship and daring acts of heroism and kindness.
The author, Mara Gan, does an excellent job with world-building and creating vivid visuals of the market place Meda frequents and the people she interacts with. You never get the feeling that Meda is safe from the corrupt men looking to put a stop to her interference, which will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. Misplaced also provides plenty of levity and humor throughout which gives the story the grounding it needs. Readers will enjoy the quirks of the lovable side characters. Misplaced is a solid follow-up to Mara Gan’s debut and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Misplaced by Mara Gan is the second book in the Joined series. After the explosive first book, our main character, Meda, lands on a deserted beach with no memory of who she is or her past. The island she makes her home is cruel and far more primitive than the high-tech world of the first book, Joined. This second installment could almost be read as a standalone as not much carries over from book one until the end. The characters essentially start over as if they have never met because of their memory loss. Readers will be drawn into the romance as Meda and Perseus experience the same magnetic attraction that drew them together the first time.
Meda is a character with a lot of heart. Without knowing who she is, her time spent in the city of Akrotiri is fraught with hardship and daring acts of heroism and kindness.
The author, Mara Gan, does an excellent job with world-building and creating vivid visuals of the market place Meda frequents and the people she interacts with. You never get the feeling that Meda is safe from the corrupt men looking to put a stop to her interference, which will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. Misplaced also provides plenty of levity and humor throughout which gives the story the grounding it needs. Readers will enjoy the quirks of the lovable side characters. Misplaced is a solid follow-up to Mara Gan’s debut and I look forward to reading more from this author.
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