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Recommend this book:
The Mask
Clayton Marshall Adams
2022 Finalist
48 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite
The Mask, written by the late author Clayton Marshall Adams, is an inspiring story for young adults. The story follows a young boy named Mil who looks different from most other people. Mil lives alone in the woods, hidden away from villagers who mock him because of his appearance. Mil is a talented sculptor and enjoys making his creations. One day whilst looking for wood for his sculping, he stumbles across something lying on the ground. At first, Mil thought it was a bowl, but he couldn't have been more wrong; it was a mask. Mil loses interest and reaches to throw it away when, all of sudden, the mask talks! Mil instantly gets a bad feeling about the mask as he senses darkness radiating from it. Mil tries to remain uninterested, but the mask is persuasive and offers to make a deal, a deal Mil can't refuse. What was it that the mask had to offer Mil? Find out in this wonderfully written book, The Mask.
Author Clayton Marshall Adams has created a touching story that will have a huge impact on anyone reading it. The story is filled with lessons on why we shouldn't judge people by the way they look as it can affect them deeply to the point of hitting rock bottom. People need to be kinder in this world and this book proves why. I was sad to hear of Clayton's passing and that this was a true story that he wrote when he was only sixteen. Depression affects so many people these days and more must be done to support them with their mental health issues. The Mask is a masterpiece and should be in every school across the world because I feel it will have an enormous influence on how we treat people in their day-to-day life. I want to let Clayton's family know that their son's book, in my opinion, will change the world we live in, making us all kinder and more understanding human beings. I will cherish this beautiful story forever and will remind myself of Clayton's message every single day.
The Mask, written by the late author Clayton Marshall Adams, is an inspiring story for young adults. The story follows a young boy named Mil who looks different from most other people. Mil lives alone in the woods, hidden away from villagers who mock him because of his appearance. Mil is a talented sculptor and enjoys making his creations. One day whilst looking for wood for his sculping, he stumbles across something lying on the ground. At first, Mil thought it was a bowl, but he couldn't have been more wrong; it was a mask. Mil loses interest and reaches to throw it away when, all of sudden, the mask talks! Mil instantly gets a bad feeling about the mask as he senses darkness radiating from it. Mil tries to remain uninterested, but the mask is persuasive and offers to make a deal, a deal Mil can't refuse. What was it that the mask had to offer Mil? Find out in this wonderfully written book, The Mask.
Author Clayton Marshall Adams has created a touching story that will have a huge impact on anyone reading it. The story is filled with lessons on why we shouldn't judge people by the way they look as it can affect them deeply to the point of hitting rock bottom. People need to be kinder in this world and this book proves why. I was sad to hear of Clayton's passing and that this was a true story that he wrote when he was only sixteen. Depression affects so many people these days and more must be done to support them with their mental health issues. The Mask is a masterpiece and should be in every school across the world because I feel it will have an enormous influence on how we treat people in their day-to-day life. I want to let Clayton's family know that their son's book, in my opinion, will change the world we live in, making us all kinder and more understanding human beings. I will cherish this beautiful story forever and will remind myself of Clayton's message every single day.
Recommend this book:
Shadow's Voice
Shadow World Book 1
Natalie Johanson
2022 Honorable Mention
330 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Shadows, the only place where she can move and feel safe, are her way of hiding, spying, and stealing. Rose has escaped her father and is forever moving, never staying too long in one place. When someone from her past finds her, she flees. Along the way, she travels with a messenger. When mercenaries capture them, looking for the message, Nico magically gives it to Rose and pleads with her to deliver it to the king. This promise to a dying man draws Rose into a plot to kill the king, where her magic could be helpful to spy on Lord Damian, who they believe is amassing an army to stage a coup. Rose encounters someone else with the same magical powers and barely escapes with her life. Who is this person and what are the shadow creatures hiding from him? Rose has to figure out her magic as it seems to be changing rapidly. When it all comes to a head, will the shadows guide Rose to save King Micah and his people, or will she succumb to the toll that her magic physically takes on her?
Shadow's Voice: Shadow World, Book 1 by Natalie Johanson is a page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is a fantasy novel about a world where magic is scarce, and in most places, those with magic are looked down upon and abused. Johanson writes an exciting story in which she tackles themes such as finding yourself and your role in the world, making friends, and standing up for what is right. This is a clean fantasy with no sexual content but enough fights and intrigue to make it fast-paced. The plot is intricate and keeps you in the dark until the end. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves an excellent magical fantasy.
Shadows, the only place where she can move and feel safe, are her way of hiding, spying, and stealing. Rose has escaped her father and is forever moving, never staying too long in one place. When someone from her past finds her, she flees. Along the way, she travels with a messenger. When mercenaries capture them, looking for the message, Nico magically gives it to Rose and pleads with her to deliver it to the king. This promise to a dying man draws Rose into a plot to kill the king, where her magic could be helpful to spy on Lord Damian, who they believe is amassing an army to stage a coup. Rose encounters someone else with the same magical powers and barely escapes with her life. Who is this person and what are the shadow creatures hiding from him? Rose has to figure out her magic as it seems to be changing rapidly. When it all comes to a head, will the shadows guide Rose to save King Micah and his people, or will she succumb to the toll that her magic physically takes on her?
Shadow's Voice: Shadow World, Book 1 by Natalie Johanson is a page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is a fantasy novel about a world where magic is scarce, and in most places, those with magic are looked down upon and abused. Johanson writes an exciting story in which she tackles themes such as finding yourself and your role in the world, making friends, and standing up for what is right. This is a clean fantasy with no sexual content but enough fights and intrigue to make it fast-paced. The plot is intricate and keeps you in the dark until the end. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves an excellent magical fantasy.
Recommend this book:
Of Heart and Stone
Jesikah Sundin
2022 Honorable Mention
483 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Of Heart and Stone by Jesikah Sundin is the second book in the Ealdspell Cycle series. Deep in the dwarven mines, Eirwen Blackvein can be found. The mines have kept Eirwen safe since she was found as a baby without a heart. Eirwen has a destiny that prophesied her saving the kingdom from war but she has no intention of being a princess. Her heart was crushed when she was born but now she possesses a heart made of the coveted stone used to power machines of war. She doesn't care about the agenda of the king or queen, only about the dwarves that have become her family and the threat to their lives. She will do whatever it takes to keep them safe, even if it means taking on Florian, the son of the king. When she's drawn into the war of two kingdoms, Eirwen must turn to her enemy for help, which could put her on the path of fulfilling a prophecy. As the queen's true intentions come to light, she'll have to fight to protect her heart of stone before it breaks.
Jesikah Sundin sets the tone of this fairy tale world through Eirwen's voice and layers to the world reminiscent of World War II with an assortment of well-rounded characters. The setting blends a retelling of Snow White with Norse and German elements enriched by an aesthetic that feels strongly dieselpunk with ceremonial bowls of blood with nanotechnology, a shockwave bomb, and a world filled with dwarves, knockers, elves, and magic. Sundin twists the love story of a princess and prince with the chemistry drawn from an enemies-to-lovers plot. The story has poignant scenic descriptions and stunning visual illustrations on the pages that feel like you're stepping into a fairy tale. The book includes a fantasy lover's dream collection with a map, a list of pronunciations, mining terms, glossary, and historical notes. The story weaves between Eirwen and Florian, creating two journeys that follow female empowerment and breaking the mold of toxic masculinity. This magical story has amazing three-dimensional characters that embody female empowerment, breaking the glass ceiling, and calling out toxic masculinity through the retelling of a classic fairy tale. Sundin delivers a spell-binding adventure that is truly original and unique and weaves in a love story.
Of Heart and Stone by Jesikah Sundin is the second book in the Ealdspell Cycle series. Deep in the dwarven mines, Eirwen Blackvein can be found. The mines have kept Eirwen safe since she was found as a baby without a heart. Eirwen has a destiny that prophesied her saving the kingdom from war but she has no intention of being a princess. Her heart was crushed when she was born but now she possesses a heart made of the coveted stone used to power machines of war. She doesn't care about the agenda of the king or queen, only about the dwarves that have become her family and the threat to their lives. She will do whatever it takes to keep them safe, even if it means taking on Florian, the son of the king. When she's drawn into the war of two kingdoms, Eirwen must turn to her enemy for help, which could put her on the path of fulfilling a prophecy. As the queen's true intentions come to light, she'll have to fight to protect her heart of stone before it breaks.
Jesikah Sundin sets the tone of this fairy tale world through Eirwen's voice and layers to the world reminiscent of World War II with an assortment of well-rounded characters. The setting blends a retelling of Snow White with Norse and German elements enriched by an aesthetic that feels strongly dieselpunk with ceremonial bowls of blood with nanotechnology, a shockwave bomb, and a world filled with dwarves, knockers, elves, and magic. Sundin twists the love story of a princess and prince with the chemistry drawn from an enemies-to-lovers plot. The story has poignant scenic descriptions and stunning visual illustrations on the pages that feel like you're stepping into a fairy tale. The book includes a fantasy lover's dream collection with a map, a list of pronunciations, mining terms, glossary, and historical notes. The story weaves between Eirwen and Florian, creating two journeys that follow female empowerment and breaking the mold of toxic masculinity. This magical story has amazing three-dimensional characters that embody female empowerment, breaking the glass ceiling, and calling out toxic masculinity through the retelling of a classic fairy tale. Sundin delivers a spell-binding adventure that is truly original and unique and weaves in a love story.
Recommend this book:
The Fall of the Phoenix
Daniel Kelly
2022 Bronze Medal
244 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite
“History is written by victors.” So, who can tell if the well-known accounts of the Trojan war reflect the actual truth? In The Fall of the Phoenix, Daniel Kelly incorporates historical events mentioned in Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid and weaves them together to present an alternative version of history. The book starts with the famous duel between Hector and Achilles, ending with the fall of the once-mighty Trojan empire. The ten-year-long siege had exhausted Troy while the Trojan horse succeeded in breaching their hitherto impenetrable walls. However, in Kelly’s version, the Trojans ended the war on their terms, ensuring the downfall of the Greeks with their dying breaths. I would implore you to read the first installment in the saga of these unsung heroes and be a part of their last battle.
I loved how each character came alive under Daniel Kelly’s skilled writing. Priam the Trojan king’s kindness shone brightly in contrast to the endless greed of the Greek king, Agamemnon. Kelly described Achilles, the great hero, as a human being full of compassion, and at times, uncertainty and grief. Apart from the famous heroes, Kelly also introduced many commanders from Troy and Myrmidon, whose feats of bravery left lasting impressions. Diomedes, a Trojan orphan taken captive by Achilles, made me realize how oppressive it must have been for the commoners to live under the siege. Entire generations grew up knowing nothing but a state of war along with a scarcity of essential supplies. Kelly described the Trojan war with vivid details, thus transporting readers to a different era. He also envisioned an ending that deviated from the legendary epics yet seemed even more intriguing. I would recommend The Fall of the Phoenix, a masterpiece of speculative fiction, to any reader interested in history and mythology.
“History is written by victors.” So, who can tell if the well-known accounts of the Trojan war reflect the actual truth? In The Fall of the Phoenix, Daniel Kelly incorporates historical events mentioned in Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid and weaves them together to present an alternative version of history. The book starts with the famous duel between Hector and Achilles, ending with the fall of the once-mighty Trojan empire. The ten-year-long siege had exhausted Troy while the Trojan horse succeeded in breaching their hitherto impenetrable walls. However, in Kelly’s version, the Trojans ended the war on their terms, ensuring the downfall of the Greeks with their dying breaths. I would implore you to read the first installment in the saga of these unsung heroes and be a part of their last battle.
I loved how each character came alive under Daniel Kelly’s skilled writing. Priam the Trojan king’s kindness shone brightly in contrast to the endless greed of the Greek king, Agamemnon. Kelly described Achilles, the great hero, as a human being full of compassion, and at times, uncertainty and grief. Apart from the famous heroes, Kelly also introduced many commanders from Troy and Myrmidon, whose feats of bravery left lasting impressions. Diomedes, a Trojan orphan taken captive by Achilles, made me realize how oppressive it must have been for the commoners to live under the siege. Entire generations grew up knowing nothing but a state of war along with a scarcity of essential supplies. Kelly described the Trojan war with vivid details, thus transporting readers to a different era. He also envisioned an ending that deviated from the legendary epics yet seemed even more intriguing. I would recommend The Fall of the Phoenix, a masterpiece of speculative fiction, to any reader interested in history and mythology.
Recommend this book:
A Light in the Sky
Shina Reynolds
2022 Gold Medal
420 Pages
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Young Adult - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite
In the Kingdom of Uladmond, only the Empyrean Cavalry has the exclusive honor of flying on winged horses. Aluma, the daughter of the famous rider Hearn Banks, has always dreamed of becoming an Empyrean Rider, a dream her father never condoned. Instead, she has to resort to covert, night-time flying adventures on Hearn’s winged horse. Aluma attends the Autumn festival to cheer for Thayer, her best friend and aspirant for this year’s Empyrean Cavalry. However, when her father suffers a strange, near-fatal accident during a flight demonstration, his last instruction for Aluma is to compete in the trials. Can she fulfill her long-cherished dream? What secrets lie behind her father’s cryptic comments? Find out in Shina Reynold’s novel, A Light in the Sky, the first book of the Clashing Skies series.
In her debut novel, Shina Reynolds creates a new world full of lavish capitals, deserted cities, ruined kingdoms, and unexplored forests. It was astounding to find mentions of modern-day inventions, such as cameras, biometric systems, and solar power-enabled vehicles. Yet, in a stroke of genius, she merged them seamlessly into the narrative that also speaks of winged steeds and blood oaths. The novel, sporting a dystopian theme, features a strong female lead who must utilize her hidden powers to save humanity. Reynolds creates tension and conflicts at every step, especially when Aluma felt a strange pull toward two heroes equally worthy of her affection. Reynolds portrays the eternal battle between light and darkness in this tale of love, betrayal, and magic. A Light in the Sky teaches us to hold onto the light even when everything seems bleak.
In the Kingdom of Uladmond, only the Empyrean Cavalry has the exclusive honor of flying on winged horses. Aluma, the daughter of the famous rider Hearn Banks, has always dreamed of becoming an Empyrean Rider, a dream her father never condoned. Instead, she has to resort to covert, night-time flying adventures on Hearn’s winged horse. Aluma attends the Autumn festival to cheer for Thayer, her best friend and aspirant for this year’s Empyrean Cavalry. However, when her father suffers a strange, near-fatal accident during a flight demonstration, his last instruction for Aluma is to compete in the trials. Can she fulfill her long-cherished dream? What secrets lie behind her father’s cryptic comments? Find out in Shina Reynold’s novel, A Light in the Sky, the first book of the Clashing Skies series.
In her debut novel, Shina Reynolds creates a new world full of lavish capitals, deserted cities, ruined kingdoms, and unexplored forests. It was astounding to find mentions of modern-day inventions, such as cameras, biometric systems, and solar power-enabled vehicles. Yet, in a stroke of genius, she merged them seamlessly into the narrative that also speaks of winged steeds and blood oaths. The novel, sporting a dystopian theme, features a strong female lead who must utilize her hidden powers to save humanity. Reynolds creates tension and conflicts at every step, especially when Aluma felt a strange pull toward two heroes equally worthy of her affection. Reynolds portrays the eternal battle between light and darkness in this tale of love, betrayal, and magic. A Light in the Sky teaches us to hold onto the light even when everything seems bleak.
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:
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.
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