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Out of Body
Kimberly Baer
2024 Finalist
336 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Out of Body is a work of fiction in the science fiction, fantasy adventure, and coming-of-age subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience. Penned by author Kimberly Baer, this intriguing story follows Abby Kendrick, who discovers that her peculiar dreams are not dreams at all but out-of-body experiences. This revelation connects her to her cousin Logan, who shares the same unique ability. Initially, Abby enjoys the fun side of this newfound skill, using it for mischief. However, when Logan faces trouble in the astral plane, Abby's journey takes a serious turn. The story unfolds as Abby bends the rules of out-of-body travel, embarking on a perilous mission to a distant realm that will test her to her limits.
Author Kimberly Baer has crafted a thrilling adventure tale with an engaging narrative, and I found it well-balanced to offer YA fans a perfect blend of mystery, adventure, and supernatural elements. The concept of astral travel adds an intriguing new dimension to the action and psychology of the plot. Abby's character development throughout the journey is captivating as we see her mind tested emotionally, logically, and physically by the exciting challenges and dangers that lie ahead. The story's unpredictability keeps readers hooked, with compelling dialogue exchanges that offer a lot of plot exposition in a highly accessible way that I think is really suitable for YA audiences. Overall, Out of Body is an enthralling and atmospheric exploration of friendship, family bonds, and the challenges of navigating uncharted territories, both physical and metaphysical. I would not hesitate to recommend it to sci-fi and fantasy readers everywhere.
Out of Body is a work of fiction in the science fiction, fantasy adventure, and coming-of-age subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience. Penned by author Kimberly Baer, this intriguing story follows Abby Kendrick, who discovers that her peculiar dreams are not dreams at all but out-of-body experiences. This revelation connects her to her cousin Logan, who shares the same unique ability. Initially, Abby enjoys the fun side of this newfound skill, using it for mischief. However, when Logan faces trouble in the astral plane, Abby's journey takes a serious turn. The story unfolds as Abby bends the rules of out-of-body travel, embarking on a perilous mission to a distant realm that will test her to her limits.
Author Kimberly Baer has crafted a thrilling adventure tale with an engaging narrative, and I found it well-balanced to offer YA fans a perfect blend of mystery, adventure, and supernatural elements. The concept of astral travel adds an intriguing new dimension to the action and psychology of the plot. Abby's character development throughout the journey is captivating as we see her mind tested emotionally, logically, and physically by the exciting challenges and dangers that lie ahead. The story's unpredictability keeps readers hooked, with compelling dialogue exchanges that offer a lot of plot exposition in a highly accessible way that I think is really suitable for YA audiences. Overall, Out of Body is an enthralling and atmospheric exploration of friendship, family bonds, and the challenges of navigating uncharted territories, both physical and metaphysical. I would not hesitate to recommend it to sci-fi and fantasy readers everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Bondwitch
Chelsey M. Ortega
2024 Honorable Mention
321 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Bondwitch is a work of fiction penned by author Chelsey M. Ortega in the paranormal adventure, fantasy, and action subgenres and is intended for the young adult reading audience. We are introduced to protagonist Annamaria Lyons, an eighteen-year-old girl from a small Wyoming town who has never ventured beyond its limits. Her guardian, Trinity, restricts her movements after dark until one fateful night during senior prom when her long-lost sister arrives, unveiling a world of family secrets and the supernatural.
Author Chelsey M. Ortega has crafted an exciting new YA read filled with suspense, mystery, and a sense of magical discovery. The story unfolds at a captivating pace as Annamaria is thrust into a world she never knew existed, and I enjoyed the sense of discovery and wonder as we saw this brand-new world through her eyes. The characters are well-drawn, and their relationships and interactions add an emotional component to the narrative that keeps you deeply invested. Annamaria's struggle to navigate her new reality while dealing with her human life and first love creates a compelling internal conflict. The world-building in Bondwitch is also an impressive feature, immersing readers in a richly imagined realm of magic and intrigue that is more than just visual but multi-sensory in the experience, waking up all corners of the imagination. Overall, Bondwitch sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and enchanting journey, and I would highly recommend it to YA paranormal and fantasy fans alike. I look forward to following Annamaria's adventures further as the series unfolds.
Bondwitch is a work of fiction penned by author Chelsey M. Ortega in the paranormal adventure, fantasy, and action subgenres and is intended for the young adult reading audience. We are introduced to protagonist Annamaria Lyons, an eighteen-year-old girl from a small Wyoming town who has never ventured beyond its limits. Her guardian, Trinity, restricts her movements after dark until one fateful night during senior prom when her long-lost sister arrives, unveiling a world of family secrets and the supernatural.
Author Chelsey M. Ortega has crafted an exciting new YA read filled with suspense, mystery, and a sense of magical discovery. The story unfolds at a captivating pace as Annamaria is thrust into a world she never knew existed, and I enjoyed the sense of discovery and wonder as we saw this brand-new world through her eyes. The characters are well-drawn, and their relationships and interactions add an emotional component to the narrative that keeps you deeply invested. Annamaria's struggle to navigate her new reality while dealing with her human life and first love creates a compelling internal conflict. The world-building in Bondwitch is also an impressive feature, immersing readers in a richly imagined realm of magic and intrigue that is more than just visual but multi-sensory in the experience, waking up all corners of the imagination. Overall, Bondwitch sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and enchanting journey, and I would highly recommend it to YA paranormal and fantasy fans alike. I look forward to following Annamaria's adventures further as the series unfolds.
Recommend this book:
Born Torn
Kiara Noir Mother Nature Series
Suz Eglington
2024 Bronze Medal
348 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Born Torn: Kiara Noir Mother Nature Series by Suz Eglington begins the story of Kiara as she uncovers secrets that change her life forever. Kiara knew no one from her extended family. Growing up on a Colorado reservation with her mother, she wasn't fond of the circumstance or her mother's crazy ideas. All she wanted for her birthday this year was to join a college away from her home, travel, and become a famous photographer. However, all those plans are shattered when a woman claiming to be her Aunt Jade arrives and reveals secrets hidden from Kiara all her life. Before she knew it, Kiara was also questioning everything about herself, her mother, and their existence. It was time for Kiara and her mother to return to where they came from to protect everyone else, even if it meant Kiara would suffer the most.
Tense, intense, and packed with many emotions, Born Torn was the perfect story to keep me company. I finished this book in a single sitting and restarted it immediately. I don't remember when that happened last time. I was fully immersed in Born Torn. Kiara's predicament was fascinating. She was torn between chasing her dreams and doing the right thing. Aunt Jade was the catalyst, but Kiara always knew she and her mother, Willow, were different from others. Traveling to a new enchanted place where she was still a stranger brought emotions she wasn't familiar with. The tussle between mother and daughter was fun and very endearing. Willow and Kiara butted heads often but loved each other so much. The story's setting was beautiful, even when author Suz Eglington described monsters. This novel was a pleasure to read, and I can't wait for the sequel.
Born Torn: Kiara Noir Mother Nature Series by Suz Eglington begins the story of Kiara as she uncovers secrets that change her life forever. Kiara knew no one from her extended family. Growing up on a Colorado reservation with her mother, she wasn't fond of the circumstance or her mother's crazy ideas. All she wanted for her birthday this year was to join a college away from her home, travel, and become a famous photographer. However, all those plans are shattered when a woman claiming to be her Aunt Jade arrives and reveals secrets hidden from Kiara all her life. Before she knew it, Kiara was also questioning everything about herself, her mother, and their existence. It was time for Kiara and her mother to return to where they came from to protect everyone else, even if it meant Kiara would suffer the most.
Tense, intense, and packed with many emotions, Born Torn was the perfect story to keep me company. I finished this book in a single sitting and restarted it immediately. I don't remember when that happened last time. I was fully immersed in Born Torn. Kiara's predicament was fascinating. She was torn between chasing her dreams and doing the right thing. Aunt Jade was the catalyst, but Kiara always knew she and her mother, Willow, were different from others. Traveling to a new enchanted place where she was still a stranger brought emotions she wasn't familiar with. The tussle between mother and daughter was fun and very endearing. Willow and Kiara butted heads often but loved each other so much. The story's setting was beautiful, even when author Suz Eglington described monsters. This novel was a pleasure to read, and I can't wait for the sequel.
Recommend this book:
Seeking Haven
The Atlas Cliffs series 2
Angela van Liempt
2024 Silver Medal
377 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Samantha Gregory for Readers' Favorite
Seeking Haven: The Atlas Cliff Series Book 2 by Angela van Liempt features Drew Harlow, a young woman who can see the dead. Drew is still relatively new to it, but after events in the first book, she is used to ghosts now. However, she doesn't expect a strange reaper-like figure to appear in her room, telling her he is going to kill her. Drew knows that there is more to her gift and her family history that might explain who he is. In a bid to figure out the truth, she goes in search of answers before the strange reaper carries out his threat. Aided by a ghost, Ori, she returns to her hometown for help. Drew soon learns that she is more powerful than she thought but must learn how to use her gift properly if she is to survive.
Angela van Liempt has written an interesting story in Seeking Haven. I have not read Book 1, but there was enough information in this book to give me the background of her earlier adventures. I liked the character of Drew. She's dealing with a crazy gift but still wants to live her life at art school. The story moved at a good pace and while it may have been a little predictable in parts, it was well written. Drew is a strong character and I really like how this developed through the plot. The mystery kept me wondering and I wanted to find out why she was being haunted by the creepy reaper. Wandering Souls is definitely a page-turner. Fans of supernatural mysteries and young adult books would enjoy this series.
Seeking Haven: The Atlas Cliff Series Book 2 by Angela van Liempt features Drew Harlow, a young woman who can see the dead. Drew is still relatively new to it, but after events in the first book, she is used to ghosts now. However, she doesn't expect a strange reaper-like figure to appear in her room, telling her he is going to kill her. Drew knows that there is more to her gift and her family history that might explain who he is. In a bid to figure out the truth, she goes in search of answers before the strange reaper carries out his threat. Aided by a ghost, Ori, she returns to her hometown for help. Drew soon learns that she is more powerful than she thought but must learn how to use her gift properly if she is to survive.
Angela van Liempt has written an interesting story in Seeking Haven. I have not read Book 1, but there was enough information in this book to give me the background of her earlier adventures. I liked the character of Drew. She's dealing with a crazy gift but still wants to live her life at art school. The story moved at a good pace and while it may have been a little predictable in parts, it was well written. Drew is a strong character and I really like how this developed through the plot. The mystery kept me wondering and I wanted to find out why she was being haunted by the creepy reaper. Wandering Souls is definitely a page-turner. Fans of supernatural mysteries and young adult books would enjoy this series.
Recommend this book:
The Ghost Ring
Tom Hoffman
2024 Gold Medal
321 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Ghost Ring is a fictional work combining paranormal adventure, action, and mystery. The book is intended for young adults and contains some mild death-centric themes as the ghosts take center stage in the story. Penned by Tom Hoffman, this highly engaging drama introduces us to our teenage protagonist, Simon Moody, just as he is swept away from all he knows in Brooklyn. The death of a relative brings Simon to the Victorian mansion of Wilder House and a little village with some really big secrets. Inheriting his Great-Uncle Edmund’s mysterious ring is only the beginning of Simon’s supernatural journey.
Tom Hoffman knows how to pitch a powerful mystical tale to his YA audience, and he keeps them on the edge of their seats from cover to cover as the various ghostly mysteries and hidden secrets of Wilder House unfold throughout this well-written and atmospheric novel. One of the things I especially enjoyed about the story was how introspective it is in revealing Simon’s character to us and crafting a poignant story arc of a displaced young man discovering who he is and the kind of adult he’ll grow into based on the challenges he faces. Simon’s central relationship with his new friend Clara is rich in realistic teen dialogue, amusing asides, and deeper emotional moments that keep you just as invested in their journey together as in the overall mystery plot. I would not hesitate to recommend The Ghost Ring for fans of intricately penned paranormal adventures, heartfelt YA characters, and plenty of Victorian atmosphere.
The Ghost Ring is a fictional work combining paranormal adventure, action, and mystery. The book is intended for young adults and contains some mild death-centric themes as the ghosts take center stage in the story. Penned by Tom Hoffman, this highly engaging drama introduces us to our teenage protagonist, Simon Moody, just as he is swept away from all he knows in Brooklyn. The death of a relative brings Simon to the Victorian mansion of Wilder House and a little village with some really big secrets. Inheriting his Great-Uncle Edmund’s mysterious ring is only the beginning of Simon’s supernatural journey.
Tom Hoffman knows how to pitch a powerful mystical tale to his YA audience, and he keeps them on the edge of their seats from cover to cover as the various ghostly mysteries and hidden secrets of Wilder House unfold throughout this well-written and atmospheric novel. One of the things I especially enjoyed about the story was how introspective it is in revealing Simon’s character to us and crafting a poignant story arc of a displaced young man discovering who he is and the kind of adult he’ll grow into based on the challenges he faces. Simon’s central relationship with his new friend Clara is rich in realistic teen dialogue, amusing asides, and deeper emotional moments that keep you just as invested in their journey together as in the overall mystery plot. I would not hesitate to recommend The Ghost Ring for fans of intricately penned paranormal adventures, heartfelt YA characters, and plenty of Victorian atmosphere.
Recommend this book:
Soulstealer (Book 2)
Steven
Shane Boulware
2023 Finalist
319 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Steven, the follow-up novel in the Soulstealer series by Shane Boulware, is an alternative narrative to the events in book one, Nythan. Some of the same events on the same timeline are shown through the points of view of two distinct characters. This is Steven Carpenter's turn. Bane is the legitimate name of the Souleater whose moniker is attributed because he will eat the soul of a person and commandeer their body solo. He's already done this with Nythan and this is explored through Steven's perspective as the novel progresses. Bane's history stretches back hundreds of years but he has been gone so long that when Steven, who is the last line of defense as one of the only guys left in the credibility-deficient, purpose-created ancient order of Ordo Solis, is not believed when he starts to tell people what he never, ever thought he'd say: the Soulstealer is back, and he's coming for everyone.
There is so much to look at in the two Soulstealer novels that I feel sort of bad about secretly wishing for a book from the perspective of one of Bane's groupies. The Soulstealer has diehard followers and they are as deliciously sick and twisted as any villain worth their salt. The second book, Steven, is an armchair travelogue and lesson in politicking all wrapped up in a paranormal thriller. Steven the character is part of Ordo Solis except when I say “part,” what I really mean is he had one biker boot out the door when the souls of all living people were endangered. Like most protagonists, Steven didn't intend to be one and this is why we like him. Also like most protagonists, they work better in pairs and Boulware writes in Adeline who is awesome, except for her dialogue, all in a phonetic German accent. At one point I did say right back to her, “I don’t like ze vay you do zat.” It does not matter because I adore everything else Soulstealer has to offer and will scoop up the next book that Boulware dishes out.
Steven, the follow-up novel in the Soulstealer series by Shane Boulware, is an alternative narrative to the events in book one, Nythan. Some of the same events on the same timeline are shown through the points of view of two distinct characters. This is Steven Carpenter's turn. Bane is the legitimate name of the Souleater whose moniker is attributed because he will eat the soul of a person and commandeer their body solo. He's already done this with Nythan and this is explored through Steven's perspective as the novel progresses. Bane's history stretches back hundreds of years but he has been gone so long that when Steven, who is the last line of defense as one of the only guys left in the credibility-deficient, purpose-created ancient order of Ordo Solis, is not believed when he starts to tell people what he never, ever thought he'd say: the Soulstealer is back, and he's coming for everyone.
There is so much to look at in the two Soulstealer novels that I feel sort of bad about secretly wishing for a book from the perspective of one of Bane's groupies. The Soulstealer has diehard followers and they are as deliciously sick and twisted as any villain worth their salt. The second book, Steven, is an armchair travelogue and lesson in politicking all wrapped up in a paranormal thriller. Steven the character is part of Ordo Solis except when I say “part,” what I really mean is he had one biker boot out the door when the souls of all living people were endangered. Like most protagonists, Steven didn't intend to be one and this is why we like him. Also like most protagonists, they work better in pairs and Boulware writes in Adeline who is awesome, except for her dialogue, all in a phonetic German accent. At one point I did say right back to her, “I don’t like ze vay you do zat.” It does not matter because I adore everything else Soulstealer has to offer and will scoop up the next book that Boulware dishes out.
Recommend this book:
Longevity
The Awakening
Caleb Smith
2023 Finalist
255 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Longevity: The Awakening is a young adult fantasy novel by Caleb Smith. Set during the Scottish War of Independence in the late 13th century, the book follows Alastair Ramsden, a young boy who witnessed the brutal murder of his father by English invaders who sought to bring control of Scotland under the English King Edward. While fleeing from English attackers, Alastair took refuge in an old oak tree when the Divine Queen Mother opened a portal to the elemental kingdom of Akasha. Upon entering Akasha, Alastair is welcomed by his spirit guide, David, who offers him knowledge about this mysterious kingdom. With an old gnome named Tariji for company, Alastair must embark on a spiritual quest in search of self-discovery. Along the way, he will meet various elemental creatures who will eventually lead him to the Mother's Ranger, Neldor Aldaval.
Rich in themes and emotional resonance, Longevity: The Awakening is a coming-of-age story about a young boy's spiritual journey set in a fantastical land full of magic and wonder. Caleb Smith's worldbuilding is imaginative and uniquely authentic. The author borrows elements from Scottish mythology and folklore, yet the magical world of Akasha feels entirely original and refreshingly distinct. Smith doesn't gloss over the atrocities committed by the English soldiers during the Scottish War of Independence. But although the story is set against the backdrop of war and its harrowing consequences, this is primarily a coming-of-age story of a young boy's spiritual awakening. If you love fantasy stories set in the Middle Ages, this is the perfect book for you.
Longevity: The Awakening is a young adult fantasy novel by Caleb Smith. Set during the Scottish War of Independence in the late 13th century, the book follows Alastair Ramsden, a young boy who witnessed the brutal murder of his father by English invaders who sought to bring control of Scotland under the English King Edward. While fleeing from English attackers, Alastair took refuge in an old oak tree when the Divine Queen Mother opened a portal to the elemental kingdom of Akasha. Upon entering Akasha, Alastair is welcomed by his spirit guide, David, who offers him knowledge about this mysterious kingdom. With an old gnome named Tariji for company, Alastair must embark on a spiritual quest in search of self-discovery. Along the way, he will meet various elemental creatures who will eventually lead him to the Mother's Ranger, Neldor Aldaval.
Rich in themes and emotional resonance, Longevity: The Awakening is a coming-of-age story about a young boy's spiritual journey set in a fantastical land full of magic and wonder. Caleb Smith's worldbuilding is imaginative and uniquely authentic. The author borrows elements from Scottish mythology and folklore, yet the magical world of Akasha feels entirely original and refreshingly distinct. Smith doesn't gloss over the atrocities committed by the English soldiers during the Scottish War of Independence. But although the story is set against the backdrop of war and its harrowing consequences, this is primarily a coming-of-age story of a young boy's spiritual awakening. If you love fantasy stories set in the Middle Ages, this is the perfect book for you.
Recommend this book:
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Spoiler
The Healer Chronicles
Michael J Bowler
2023 Honorable Mention
317 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Michael J. Bowler's Spoiler is the last book in the Healer Chronicles series. It depressed Alex that his twin Andy had stolen his ability to "spin." Colonel Walker lifted Alex's spirits by reminding him of all of his strengths and how the other teens considered him a big brother. When Father Pat brings Cardinal Leone and Samuel Montour to see Alex, he learns he is part of a prophecy as "The Healer." The prophecy claimed dark entities could cross over to possess humans on Halloween night, causing the world to fall into darkness. However, only Alex could open the gate. Meanwhile, Andy was with the Teacher. She wanted Andy to transfer his hate and anger onto people, but he was unable to open the gate for her. Alex could feel Andy's darkness when he failed. Walker told Shaw of his suspicions about some people on the base, and together they took precautions to keep Alex safe. Would their plans prevent Ms. G from throwing the world into total darkness under her control?
Michael J. Bowler built tension and suspense by presenting Alex's inner turmoil regarding his brother. Ms. G was the epitome of a tyrannical leader and she was compared to Hitler, Stalin, and other historical dictators bent on world dominance. This is a character-driven story, but every individual is important to the overall plot. People who didn't have special abilities could hold their own and serve a purpose during high-stress moments. It described the villainous protagonists in such detail that I could picture their lack of empathy and a desire to promote Ms. G's agenda. Each transition between characters was fluid and easy to follow. The unpredictable changes that were added to the plot captured my imagination. I appreciated that the story wasn't bogged down with jargon when explaining scientific and technological processes. The end of the story was exceptional in tying every event together. I recommend Spoiler to science-fiction and dystopian fans that enjoy connecting with all the characters in the story.
Michael J. Bowler's Spoiler is the last book in the Healer Chronicles series. It depressed Alex that his twin Andy had stolen his ability to "spin." Colonel Walker lifted Alex's spirits by reminding him of all of his strengths and how the other teens considered him a big brother. When Father Pat brings Cardinal Leone and Samuel Montour to see Alex, he learns he is part of a prophecy as "The Healer." The prophecy claimed dark entities could cross over to possess humans on Halloween night, causing the world to fall into darkness. However, only Alex could open the gate. Meanwhile, Andy was with the Teacher. She wanted Andy to transfer his hate and anger onto people, but he was unable to open the gate for her. Alex could feel Andy's darkness when he failed. Walker told Shaw of his suspicions about some people on the base, and together they took precautions to keep Alex safe. Would their plans prevent Ms. G from throwing the world into total darkness under her control?
Michael J. Bowler built tension and suspense by presenting Alex's inner turmoil regarding his brother. Ms. G was the epitome of a tyrannical leader and she was compared to Hitler, Stalin, and other historical dictators bent on world dominance. This is a character-driven story, but every individual is important to the overall plot. People who didn't have special abilities could hold their own and serve a purpose during high-stress moments. It described the villainous protagonists in such detail that I could picture their lack of empathy and a desire to promote Ms. G's agenda. Each transition between characters was fluid and easy to follow. The unpredictable changes that were added to the plot captured my imagination. I appreciated that the story wasn't bogged down with jargon when explaining scientific and technological processes. The end of the story was exceptional in tying every event together. I recommend Spoiler to science-fiction and dystopian fans that enjoy connecting with all the characters in the story.
Recommend this book:
Letters in the Attic
Meredith Lindsey
2023 Bronze Medal
304 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
Letters in the Attic is a young adult fantasy by Meredith Lindsey. Cami moved to Green Peaks with her mother after the tragic death of her father. Green Peaks was a quiet town surrounded by trees in the heart of the Cursed Woods and with a dark history. Cami wants to move on after the tragedy and keep a low profile. Cami made friends with a group that she liked and wanted to spend time with. Soon, Cami receives love letters from a secret admirer who shares secrets, hoping to make her believe that witches and magic are real. Girls of Cami’s age began disappearing around town, and the possibility of a serial killer was the only explanation. Cami suspected that her boyfriend and his family were involved in the disappearances and was determined to find the truth.
Letters in the Attic is a magical page-turner by Meredith Lindsey. I was in for a roller coaster ride of magic, romance, and murder. The author described the spooky house and the dark, intimidating forest in detail, and I could visualize the surroundings. The fantasy and romance lightened the dark side of the disappearances. I was intrigued from the start and could not turn the pages fast enough. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and I could not put it down. The characters were brilliantly developed. Cami was my favorite. Despite her feelings for her mysterious boyfriend, she goes out of her way to find the truth. This story was excellently written and kept me guessing until the end.
Letters in the Attic is a young adult fantasy by Meredith Lindsey. Cami moved to Green Peaks with her mother after the tragic death of her father. Green Peaks was a quiet town surrounded by trees in the heart of the Cursed Woods and with a dark history. Cami wants to move on after the tragedy and keep a low profile. Cami made friends with a group that she liked and wanted to spend time with. Soon, Cami receives love letters from a secret admirer who shares secrets, hoping to make her believe that witches and magic are real. Girls of Cami’s age began disappearing around town, and the possibility of a serial killer was the only explanation. Cami suspected that her boyfriend and his family were involved in the disappearances and was determined to find the truth.
Letters in the Attic is a magical page-turner by Meredith Lindsey. I was in for a roller coaster ride of magic, romance, and murder. The author described the spooky house and the dark, intimidating forest in detail, and I could visualize the surroundings. The fantasy and romance lightened the dark side of the disappearances. I was intrigued from the start and could not turn the pages fast enough. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and I could not put it down. The characters were brilliantly developed. Cami was my favorite. Despite her feelings for her mysterious boyfriend, she goes out of her way to find the truth. This story was excellently written and kept me guessing until the end.
Recommend this book:
Chosen by Grace
Alicia Rades
2023 Silver Medal
230 Pages
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Young Adult - Paranormal
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Chosen by Fate is the first book in the Divine Fate trilogy by Alicia Rades. Ryn Tyler has spent her life being haunted by demons only she can see, but things are finally starting to look up. Her mom lets her decide where they'll move to next, which is how she ends up in the quaint community of Eagle Valley. She's befriended by her neighbor and dragged off to a party where demons attack her. When she's saved by the mysterious Marek, she's taken into a secret world of angels and demons. She discovers she's harboring an ancient power that can prevent an apocalypse, but her new power catches the attention of a demon bent on revenge. How can she save the world if she can't control her power?
Ryn's only bond at the beginning is with her mother who is a unpredictable personality, constantly moving them around and changing hobbies. Ryn never gets an opportunity to seek her own identity and form her own bonds, but discovering she has powers gives her a chance to find a real place for herself. One of the aspects that make supernatural coming of age stories so successful is how well the friendships are factored into the journey. Alicia Rades succeeds in forming a tight knit group that gives Ryn people she's able to confide in and open up to, while also playing a key role in how she discovers the extent of her powers. Her new friendships are a guiding force for her journey, as both protectors and factors of her self-discovery. She is a 'chosen one' type of character, but she's not running away from her power to avoid the burden or responsibilities, but in order to avoid killing anyone, even demons.
The other characters have a straightforward perspective, seeing demons as evil and needing to be destroyed, whereas Ryn has an overwhelming compassion to the point where she doesn't wish to seriously harm anyone. The story is fast paced, with a lot of action in a short amount of time. Chosen by Fate is a story of new beginnings, exploring themes of fate and friendship in an adventure with danger, romance, and the supernatural.
Chosen by Fate is the first book in the Divine Fate trilogy by Alicia Rades. Ryn Tyler has spent her life being haunted by demons only she can see, but things are finally starting to look up. Her mom lets her decide where they'll move to next, which is how she ends up in the quaint community of Eagle Valley. She's befriended by her neighbor and dragged off to a party where demons attack her. When she's saved by the mysterious Marek, she's taken into a secret world of angels and demons. She discovers she's harboring an ancient power that can prevent an apocalypse, but her new power catches the attention of a demon bent on revenge. How can she save the world if she can't control her power?
Ryn's only bond at the beginning is with her mother who is a unpredictable personality, constantly moving them around and changing hobbies. Ryn never gets an opportunity to seek her own identity and form her own bonds, but discovering she has powers gives her a chance to find a real place for herself. One of the aspects that make supernatural coming of age stories so successful is how well the friendships are factored into the journey. Alicia Rades succeeds in forming a tight knit group that gives Ryn people she's able to confide in and open up to, while also playing a key role in how she discovers the extent of her powers. Her new friendships are a guiding force for her journey, as both protectors and factors of her self-discovery. She is a 'chosen one' type of character, but she's not running away from her power to avoid the burden or responsibilities, but in order to avoid killing anyone, even demons.
The other characters have a straightforward perspective, seeing demons as evil and needing to be destroyed, whereas Ryn has an overwhelming compassion to the point where she doesn't wish to seriously harm anyone. The story is fast paced, with a lot of action in a short amount of time. Chosen by Fate is a story of new beginnings, exploring themes of fate and friendship in an adventure with danger, romance, and the supernatural.
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