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Recommend this book:
Faery Academy of QuillSnap
Night of the Purple Moon
Jacqueline Reinig
2025 Finalist
412 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite
Are faeries make-believe? Invisible to the human eye, faeries lived in the faery realm, though, very rarely, one or two lived in the human realm because of special circumstances. Faeries with potential were enrolled in a faery training program at the Faery Academy of QuillSnap. Tansy WaterSprite was one of the lucky ones, receiving her invitation when she least expected it. Tansy used this opportunity to go on a grand adventure of her own and to escape the clutches of her mean and secretive guardian, Merkel. Along the way, she stumbled upon secrets and truths that would reshape everything she thought she knew. Read Faery Academy of QuillSnap: Night of the Purple Moon by Jacqueline Reinig to find out more!
The Faery Academy of QuillSnap: Night of the Purple Moon switches to different perspectives throughout the story, which, for me, made the tale all the more captivating. The prologue was vivid and magical in its descriptions. Then, the main story started and switched to a third-person point-of-view that explored the lives of different faeries, focusing mostly on Tansy’s exploration of the Faery realm. And oh, what an adventure it was! I found this novel to be an enchanting journey with spellbinding characters that gripped me from start to finish. The story is rich in detail, and the sketches helped paint a clearer picture of the narrative. This book made me feel like I was experiencing art in motion; a true masterpiece. Hoping for more excellent work from Jacqueline Reinig.
Are faeries make-believe? Invisible to the human eye, faeries lived in the faery realm, though, very rarely, one or two lived in the human realm because of special circumstances. Faeries with potential were enrolled in a faery training program at the Faery Academy of QuillSnap. Tansy WaterSprite was one of the lucky ones, receiving her invitation when she least expected it. Tansy used this opportunity to go on a grand adventure of her own and to escape the clutches of her mean and secretive guardian, Merkel. Along the way, she stumbled upon secrets and truths that would reshape everything she thought she knew. Read Faery Academy of QuillSnap: Night of the Purple Moon by Jacqueline Reinig to find out more!
The Faery Academy of QuillSnap: Night of the Purple Moon switches to different perspectives throughout the story, which, for me, made the tale all the more captivating. The prologue was vivid and magical in its descriptions. Then, the main story started and switched to a third-person point-of-view that explored the lives of different faeries, focusing mostly on Tansy’s exploration of the Faery realm. And oh, what an adventure it was! I found this novel to be an enchanting journey with spellbinding characters that gripped me from start to finish. The story is rich in detail, and the sketches helped paint a clearer picture of the narrative. This book made me feel like I was experiencing art in motion; a true masterpiece. Hoping for more excellent work from Jacqueline Reinig.
Recommend this book:
Vibrations
Children of Atlantis
A. R. Alexander
2025 Honorable Mention
222 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite
A.R. Alexander brings us an engaging blend of mythology and fairy tales in Vibrations: Children of Atlantis. Nada has a rare gift. She can see the vibrations of everything around her. Bright waves of energy have always been bouncing around her. She has kept her head down, hiding her gift from the world. And then Kani comes into the picture. Arriving in Texas from Hawaii, Kani can feel vibrations and manipulate them, and he is very curious about Nada. Meeting Kani could shatter Nada’s peace in her chaotic world. Together, Nada and Kani learn about their Atlantean heritage and how to harness their newfound skills. A battle of the elements against mythological creatures they have only heard of in story books is very close at hand. If they lose, it could mean the end of the world. Will they be ready in time?
Author A.R. Alexander has done a remarkable job of infusing this story with boundless sensory stimulation. Writing in the first-person narrative from the perspectives of our two protagonists was a strategic move that was executed with perfection. Character descriptions are detailed, which makes the characters likable and relatable. A resounding theme of misplaced self-doubt and finding your place in this world saturates every page. This book is filled with action based on a new set of rules, which makes for phenomenal world-building. I loved the introduction of various mythical creatures from different religions and mythologies. Suitable for young adult readers, Vibrations is a fast-paced adventure that will fill you with hope and large doses of self-confidence.
A.R. Alexander brings us an engaging blend of mythology and fairy tales in Vibrations: Children of Atlantis. Nada has a rare gift. She can see the vibrations of everything around her. Bright waves of energy have always been bouncing around her. She has kept her head down, hiding her gift from the world. And then Kani comes into the picture. Arriving in Texas from Hawaii, Kani can feel vibrations and manipulate them, and he is very curious about Nada. Meeting Kani could shatter Nada’s peace in her chaotic world. Together, Nada and Kani learn about their Atlantean heritage and how to harness their newfound skills. A battle of the elements against mythological creatures they have only heard of in story books is very close at hand. If they lose, it could mean the end of the world. Will they be ready in time?
Author A.R. Alexander has done a remarkable job of infusing this story with boundless sensory stimulation. Writing in the first-person narrative from the perspectives of our two protagonists was a strategic move that was executed with perfection. Character descriptions are detailed, which makes the characters likable and relatable. A resounding theme of misplaced self-doubt and finding your place in this world saturates every page. This book is filled with action based on a new set of rules, which makes for phenomenal world-building. I loved the introduction of various mythical creatures from different religions and mythologies. Suitable for young adult readers, Vibrations is a fast-paced adventure that will fill you with hope and large doses of self-confidence.
Recommend this book:
Once Upon a Time in Wonderland
Hermione Lee
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Princess Harriet grew up in Wonderland. It is all she has ever known, and she loves everything about it. From the poker-themed castle to the magical gardens and friendly creatures, Wonderland is her perfect home, but all this changes when she loses her parents, the king and queen. Princess Harriet marries a stranger, Harrison Black, to become queen and him to become king and they begin to preside over her people. She discovers that her beautiful Wonderland is full of aristocrats and people who are manipulative, power-hungry, and greedy. Her only delight is the love she and Harrison share. Unfortunately, her love and heart may not be prepared for the turmoil awaiting her. Get a copy of Once Upon a Time in Wonderland by Hermione Lee to follow Harriet on her turbulent journey to become Queen of Wonderland.
Once Upon a Time in Wonderland surprised me and left me in awe. The story is a gut-wrenching fairy tale that took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Hermione Lee puts readers in the main character's shoes and makes them feel her grief, joy, pain, and hopelessness. Harriet has no control over her life and wishes to do right by her people, but all her efforts seem futile. The injustice, losses, and betrayals she faces lead to her gradual evolution into someone she never thought she would be. The book is one of the easiest I have ever read, and this is because the author uses simple words and maintains a smooth flow from start to finish. The story is well-written and unpredictable. Each chapter built on the next, and the author added intrigue and suspense in equal measure to the plot. I could not put it down because I did not want to miss anything, and the ending was shocking and sinister but also satisfying. I enjoyed reading this book and hope to read more from the author.
Princess Harriet grew up in Wonderland. It is all she has ever known, and she loves everything about it. From the poker-themed castle to the magical gardens and friendly creatures, Wonderland is her perfect home, but all this changes when she loses her parents, the king and queen. Princess Harriet marries a stranger, Harrison Black, to become queen and him to become king and they begin to preside over her people. She discovers that her beautiful Wonderland is full of aristocrats and people who are manipulative, power-hungry, and greedy. Her only delight is the love she and Harrison share. Unfortunately, her love and heart may not be prepared for the turmoil awaiting her. Get a copy of Once Upon a Time in Wonderland by Hermione Lee to follow Harriet on her turbulent journey to become Queen of Wonderland.
Once Upon a Time in Wonderland surprised me and left me in awe. The story is a gut-wrenching fairy tale that took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Hermione Lee puts readers in the main character's shoes and makes them feel her grief, joy, pain, and hopelessness. Harriet has no control over her life and wishes to do right by her people, but all her efforts seem futile. The injustice, losses, and betrayals she faces lead to her gradual evolution into someone she never thought she would be. The book is one of the easiest I have ever read, and this is because the author uses simple words and maintains a smooth flow from start to finish. The story is well-written and unpredictable. Each chapter built on the next, and the author added intrigue and suspense in equal measure to the plot. I could not put it down because I did not want to miss anything, and the ending was shocking and sinister but also satisfying. I enjoyed reading this book and hope to read more from the author.
Recommend this book:
Timeaous Spark
And the Luck Curse
E. K. Kidwell
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Ibrahim Aslan for Readers' Favorite
Timeaous Spark And the Luck Curse by E. K. Kidwell unfolds in Mythantas, a society guided by social status and predestined paths. Timeaous is a youth attending Mythica High, a training academy tasked with helping students master their supernatural gifts through a series of arduous trials. Our young hero is a 'powerless Non-Creature' and has no manifested powers of his own. He has been groomed by his parents his entire life to live in the shadow of servitude. But one day, Timeaous hopes to change his destiny. Under the watchful coaching of Mr. Phix, his instructor, Timeaous gradually discovers he has the mystifying ability to alter his luck subtly. Mr. Phix warns him to keep this highly unusual power to himself since there are formidable forces that can deem him a threat. Will Timeaous sacrifice his identity to fit into the status quo? Or will he forge his own destiny in life, even if it spawns isolation and danger?
Timeaous Spark And the Luck Curse by E. K. Kidwell is a spellbinding blend of fantasy and adventure, similar to well-known series like The Hunger Games and Harry Potter. The characters are relatable and well-crafted, while the plot keeps you engaged from beginning to end. Timeaous’ latent powers and battle against societal expectations make for a story that will keep you turning the pages. This tale takes the protagonist (and readers) on a riveting journey that is both psychologically and physically demanding while reminding us of its overarching motif; it is imperative to know and accept ourselves, especially during the most seemingly hopeless moments of our lives. The author masterfully integrates complex topics like power, friendship, and destiny into the narrative using the art of evocative storytelling. I am eager to see how Timeaous’ story unfolds in its entirety. This YA fantasy is perfect for those seeking an adventurous tale depicting meaningful character journeys and fascinating world-building.
Timeaous Spark And the Luck Curse by E. K. Kidwell unfolds in Mythantas, a society guided by social status and predestined paths. Timeaous is a youth attending Mythica High, a training academy tasked with helping students master their supernatural gifts through a series of arduous trials. Our young hero is a 'powerless Non-Creature' and has no manifested powers of his own. He has been groomed by his parents his entire life to live in the shadow of servitude. But one day, Timeaous hopes to change his destiny. Under the watchful coaching of Mr. Phix, his instructor, Timeaous gradually discovers he has the mystifying ability to alter his luck subtly. Mr. Phix warns him to keep this highly unusual power to himself since there are formidable forces that can deem him a threat. Will Timeaous sacrifice his identity to fit into the status quo? Or will he forge his own destiny in life, even if it spawns isolation and danger?
Timeaous Spark And the Luck Curse by E. K. Kidwell is a spellbinding blend of fantasy and adventure, similar to well-known series like The Hunger Games and Harry Potter. The characters are relatable and well-crafted, while the plot keeps you engaged from beginning to end. Timeaous’ latent powers and battle against societal expectations make for a story that will keep you turning the pages. This tale takes the protagonist (and readers) on a riveting journey that is both psychologically and physically demanding while reminding us of its overarching motif; it is imperative to know and accept ourselves, especially during the most seemingly hopeless moments of our lives. The author masterfully integrates complex topics like power, friendship, and destiny into the narrative using the art of evocative storytelling. I am eager to see how Timeaous’ story unfolds in its entirety. This YA fantasy is perfect for those seeking an adventurous tale depicting meaningful character journeys and fascinating world-building.
Recommend this book:
Snow: Cursed
Willa R. Finnegan
2025 Gold Medal
250 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Willa R. Finnegan’s book Snow: Cursed features many characters from well-known fairy tales and mythology. Very few have been omitted, from ancient Greece to modern-day films. This story starring Snow White takes a very different path from the one we all know. She is a very capable and resourceful heroine with nerves of steel and a very modern outlook. In turn, she meets many storybook characters in a frantic attempt to lift the curse placed on her at birth. She has more than one enemy who conspires to take her life, and in the process, she, who has always been as pure as the driven snow, in turn is forced to commit heinous crimes. The overall message in this book is that none of us is all good, nor all evil, but a combination of both behaviors.
Willa R. Finnegan takes us on a whirlwind tour of a host of fairytale characters, showing both imagination and humor. I particularly loved the tree-climbing crocodile. The pace was excellent, and the story never lagged as it moved from one point of view to another. It brought back memories of my favorite childhood books and swashbuckling adventures. It is packed full of spells, magic potions, curses, shape-shifting, and a heroine with courage. There are so many characters to meet and think about, whereas in the past, we have met them before, but in an entirely different light. The snappy dialogue is very amusing. The descriptions of the various landscapes are well drawn, especially the underwater scenes. I liked the cliffhangers at the end of the sentences, enticing the reader to devour more pages as the pace never flags. The mixture of humor and horror is excellent, and the ending was a huge surprise; I did not see that coming. You have to read it for yourself to get the full impact. As a first novel, Snow: Cursed shows great promise.
Willa R. Finnegan’s book Snow: Cursed features many characters from well-known fairy tales and mythology. Very few have been omitted, from ancient Greece to modern-day films. This story starring Snow White takes a very different path from the one we all know. She is a very capable and resourceful heroine with nerves of steel and a very modern outlook. In turn, she meets many storybook characters in a frantic attempt to lift the curse placed on her at birth. She has more than one enemy who conspires to take her life, and in the process, she, who has always been as pure as the driven snow, in turn is forced to commit heinous crimes. The overall message in this book is that none of us is all good, nor all evil, but a combination of both behaviors.
Willa R. Finnegan takes us on a whirlwind tour of a host of fairytale characters, showing both imagination and humor. I particularly loved the tree-climbing crocodile. The pace was excellent, and the story never lagged as it moved from one point of view to another. It brought back memories of my favorite childhood books and swashbuckling adventures. It is packed full of spells, magic potions, curses, shape-shifting, and a heroine with courage. There are so many characters to meet and think about, whereas in the past, we have met them before, but in an entirely different light. The snappy dialogue is very amusing. The descriptions of the various landscapes are well drawn, especially the underwater scenes. I liked the cliffhangers at the end of the sentences, enticing the reader to devour more pages as the pace never flags. The mixture of humor and horror is excellent, and the ending was a huge surprise; I did not see that coming. You have to read it for yourself to get the full impact. As a first novel, Snow: Cursed shows great promise.
Recommend this book:
Nymph Totem
Brittni Chenelle
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
Check current price
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
Kindle Edition
Check current price
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
Kindle Edition
Check current price
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
Check current price
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.
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