Reviewed by Michelle Robertson for Readers' Favorite

Etienne Gayneau, Alsoomse, and Abraham are back in At the Mercy of the Sea by Amanda M. Cetas. It is September of 1963, and things appeared to calm down in the lives of these three, at least for a while. Past debts of Etienne’s father are due, and Etienne decides to head back to the sea to make money for his family. A run-in with an old rival, Jacob Janssen Van den Burg, and his pirate ship has Etienne making some life-changing decisions that will either take him down a hard path or on one to redemption. Alsoomse must decide if she will continue to fight the traditional role of a woman or find her rightful place among her people. Abraham fights the demons and anger he has built up inside while finding himself among his own and the English people and when trying to prove himself to his father and become a better man.

At the Mercy of the Sea by Amanda M. Cetas is the third book in this incredibly detailed and beautifully written series. The author has extensively researched this book and the other two in the series. All the historical aspects are documented with sources named. Her knowledge and passion for the 1600s in North America are incredible and inspiring. The storyline and characters are a mix of actual people and fictional ones. With its aspects of adventure, diverse cultures, love, betrayal, and historical elements, At the Mercy of the Sea is a fantastic book any reader will not be able to put down. I recommend reading all the books in the series, although each book can be read as a standalone novel.

Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

An inspiring and beautifully-written Christian novel, Caroline's Purpose by Erica Zaborac is about faith, healing, and finding hope. As her sophomore year of college begins, Caroline Davis finds herself stuck in her past. The events leading to her tragic accident and her broken dreams continue to haunt her. At a young age, Caroline’s future already looked bright as her riding level continued to rise. Like her mother, she had dreamed of becoming a professional three-day eventer, but all her dreams came crashing down after the fateful accident. Her dreams of rebuilding her life had also shattered, leaving Caroline feeling lost. Following her academic advisor’s suggestion, Caroline reluctantly selects Equine Science as her major. In one of her classes, she is paired with Connor, a compassionate young man who also experienced a painful loss in his life.

I loved that Caroline's Purpose discusses difficult topics such as fear and loss and offers hope, showing that it is possible to find strength and purpose again. It also features inspiring main characters. Despite her courage, Caroline struggles to move on when all her attempts of recreating her life after the accident also fail while Connor carries the pain of losing someone close to him. In spite of their pasts, they work on moving forward. The process of healing for both of them is gradual. Caroline is uncertain of her future, but she finds her faith slowly through Connor’s help. Zaborac’s experience and knowledge show as informative details about horses are included. The details also provide a lovely background for the story. Caroline’s Purpose by Erica Zaborac is an uplifting novel about loss and finding purpose.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Gus Busbi by Jim Sono is a heartwarming, hopeful novel about growing up in the inner-cíty ghettos, seen through the eyes of a young black man torn between the friendship and familial love of young gang members and his mother’s desire for him to break free from the hopelessness of the ghetto. Jamiel Russell had grown up without a father in the projects, where violence, drugs, and senseless killing were an everyday occurrence. When Jamiel’s mother saw the opportunity to move her and her talented son away from the gang influence and into a predominantly white, safer neighborhood, she jumped at it. Jamiel, a gifted basketball player, was now attending a local Catholic school where the priest, Father Tom, proved to be a wonderful coach and mentor. Faced with a curmudgeonly landlord, Gus, who lived on the same premises, and who Jamiel thought was just a grumpy old racist, he found himself increasingly drawn back to his gang friends. Slowly but surely he was being sucked into their lifestyle, and, worse, their crimes. It would take bold actions by the surrogate fathers in Jamiel’s life to ensure he found the right road to follow. 

Gus Busbi is a wonderfully insightful and meaningful novel. Author Jim Sano uses the narrative to pose and attempt to answer some critical questions faced by youth in our cities today, especially African-American youth. The characters are wonderfully drawn and the author explores each one in some depth. I particularly appreciated the remarkable synchronicities the author injected into the story that ultimately brought Jamiel and Gus together in the same environment. Jamiel does some deep thinking about his relationships, especially expressing gratitude for the wonderful men who stepped into the void in his life. Jamiel felt the “black” experience was infinitely harsher than those experienced by immigrants through the years. He also was intelligent enough to realize that this wasn’t the only group to experience discrimination and hatred based on skin color or ethnicity. For me, the character who stood out the most was Father Tom, the quintessential caring priest. I have known a Father Tom whose heart was bigger than most and whose patience was endless. It reinforces the underlying themes of love, role models, and forgiveness that run seamlessly through the narrative. Novels with a great story that impart fundamental truths are priceless and this one certainly falls into that category. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Young Samaritan by J. Schuyler Sprowles is a well-crafted Christian historical fiction novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey inspired by the Gospel of Mark. The story centers on Joshua, a young Samaritan boy whose life is upended, forcing him to flee his familiar surroundings and face both a harsh and a heartwarming world. Sprowles’ vivid prose transports readers to a time and place where the past feels palpably alive, and every encounter holds a deeper meaning.

Joshua’s journey is full of unexpected allies and challenges. The mysterious woman who shares a haunting vision, the faithful wild dog who stays by his side, and a reclusive uncle whose presence offers shelter and riddles all add intrigue and depth to the tale. As Joshua joins a band of travelers led by a man called Rabbi, believed by many to be the Messiah, his path takes on a profound spiritual dimension. The story beautifully weaves together hope, faith, and redemption themes, inviting readers to reflect on the meaning of transformation and divine purpose. The narrative flows seamlessly, capturing the essence of a time filled with danger and wonder. The Young Samaritan isn’t just a journey to the cross but a journey to the heart, and readers will find themselves immersed in Joshua's trials and triumphs, feeling every moment of his growth. It is an emotional read as Joshua questions if God is real, given all the events he’s experiencing, especially his father’s death. It is a tug-at-the-heartstrings remarkable read and J. Schuyler Sprowles is a literary master. This is an incredible read.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Charting the Course is a YA mystery and adventure novel by Leslea Wahl. Liz Kennedy is tired of shuttling between her parents' homes in Minnesota and Illinois after their divorce. When her father takes her on a cruise for his high school reunion, Liz is convinced it will be ten long days. Liz has a strained relationship with her father, which manifests itself in some self-destructive behavior. She strikes up a burgeoning friendship with a boy her age named Cole. Meanwhile, she continues to follow the clues of a scavenger hunt. When called upon to save the job of one of the ship's staff who's been wrongfully accused of theft, Liz feels guilty and falls back on her faith. However, someone else has the stolen items, and Liz must now get to the bottom of the mystery.

With a touch of mystery, romance, and intrigue, Leslea Wahl delivers the perfect sleuth adventure yarn for young adults. Charting the Course is a captivating tale of a young woman's journey of self-discovery. Wahl masterfully incorporates themes of faith and forgiveness into the story, showing how making amends for past mistakes and forgiving oneself can help a person turn their life around. The plot has a couple of unexpected twists that I never saw coming. However, the main highlight of the book is the characters. Wahl's characters have depth and layers to them, and this makes them so compelling to read. The relationship between Liz and her father feels genuine and realistic. I also enjoyed the blooming romance between Liz and Cole. Overall, this is a riveting novel I highly recommend to young adult readers.

Reviewed by Parul Sood for Readers' Favorite

Dan E. Hendrickson's Magi Apprentice transports readers to a historical epoch expertly, breathing new life into a familiar tale. Unfolding in 7 BC, the narrative revolves around Rassan, a Parthian cavalry cadet and the progeny of General Surena. His mission is to thwart a rogue Magi headmaster from infiltrating Judea without authorization. What he stumbles upon is a scene of devastation – a dying Magi and a shattered caravan. This encounter upends Rassan's journey, leading him down an unforeseen path. As an angel relates a prophecy to the dying Magi, Rassan is chosen to continue the quest for the prophesied savior. Armed with sacred star charts, his expedition unfolds with Emperor Phraates IV's blessing. Skillfully intertwined is Rassan's apprenticeship with the Magi, guided by headmaster Daraya-Vous into a tapestry of intrigue and significance.

Dan E. Hendrickson's narrative prowess shines brilliantly in Magi Apprentice, immersing readers in the bustling streets of Babylon and the intricate political and religious web of the Parthian Empire. The meticulous historical groundwork creates a rich canvas for the unfolding narrative. By interweaving Zoroastrian tenets, ancient Egyptian wisdom, and biblical prophecies into the era, the story gains a multi-dimensional texture, enhancing the reading experience. Rassan's evolution from a cadet to an apprentice Magi entrusted with decoding astronomical enigmas illustrates his growth and resolve. The intricate interplay between diverse religious orders and the simmering power dynamics contribute layers of complexity, heightened by Dvandas' schemes that introduce imminent danger. Hendrickson's exploration of enduring themes, such as the struggle between temptation and righteousness, echoes both Rassan's journey and the overarching biblical narrative. An ode to transformation, destiny, and the timeless call to the extraordinary, this work captivates and resonates, etching itself into the reader's memory.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Action fantasy lovers are in for a treat this Christmas, for Akorede Adekoya and Howard Haugom have brought them the third installment of The Footnail Series, Merlin's Revelation. Following the events of Forging the Sword, Genesis Isherwood (Gen) has grown into the role of the Nailbearer, who together with her protector Mark Reynolds, leads a close-knit group united under extraordinary circumstances. But a new threat is brewing as a corrupt soul gets his hands on the Crown of Thorns. As Myrddin sets off to tackle the potential calamity, he finds himself robbed of his powers. He must seek help from his old friend, as a descendant of a past enemy is determined to exact revenge. Meanwhile, a member of the Citadel is on a mission to eliminate Lucilius. Can Gen and her friends prevail?

Merlin's Revelation has undoubtedly been my favorite book of the series. Akorede Adekoya and Howard Haugom's plotting seems much more intricate, while the characters feel even more fleshed-out than ever before. Merlin plays a key role in this story, and this is the first book in the series where he gets a significant portion of page time with a fully formed backstory that has ramifications for the present. The narrative switches between two timelines and multiple characters, which keeps the plot moving at a blistering pace. The different factions are seamlessly woven into the narrative, and as a reader, you will find yourself invested from the outset. A stellar saga for fantasy fans.

Reviewed by Tanja Jurkovic for Readers' Favorite

Nina Winter and the Age of Darkness by T.S. Maynard is a dark and exciting story about a young girl, Nina, whose life in the Dark Ages revolves around her struggle to cope with the loss of her father while growing up in a small village. One day, a horrific event changes everything. After the dreadful attack by a ferocious beast on her village and her neighbors, panic and fear took over their almost idyllic rural life. Nina and the remaining villagers had to seek refuge in the reigning lord’s castle. Dark days descended on the people and the nobility, as they now had to do whatever they could to survive. Nina had to be careful where to put her trust to protect her mother and the rest of the villagers, in a place where safety was merely an illusion while fighting the darkness to survive.

T.S. Maynard pulls the reader into a dark time when human life was not valued as much, while, at the same time, creating danger that is almost invisible to the human eye. Nina Winter and the Age of Darkness is a story of survival, love, and care for one another. Maynard eloquently explores different states of human nature in unexpected and life-threatening situations. The character of Nina slowly grows from a scared young girl to that same girl finding her strength and power while facing imminent danger, which results in a culmination of events that lead to a surprising ending. Nina’s story is not for the faint of heart; however, it will take the reader to a different world than ours, making them envision and better understand the characters in this powerful story of love, loss, and finding one's strength.

Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite

In Thrown to the Wind: A Country for Castoffs by Amanda M. Cetas, many in the population of La Rochelle are Huguenots. The previous king had allowed them to be, but the current king wants everyone to conform to the Catholic religion and sends his musketeers to enforce the new rules. Etienne has always wanted to be part of this elite force, but his Protestant roots stand in the way. His best friend has offered a way for Etienne to remain in La Rochelle and maybe even become a musketeer, as he has always wanted. But in a sudden twist of events, the family has to embark on a dangerous journey to start afresh in Amsterdam. How will Etienne deal with his dilemma? Will he accept his friend's offer or follow his family to this new place to avoid persecution?

One of the themes that stand out in Thrown to the Wind by Amanda. M. Cetas is the role of religion in society. The dynamics of power and control also become apparent, and one can't help but question to what extent governments should get involved in religion and the role of religious leaders in interpreting the scriptures. This thought-provoking work also aroused my curiosity about history and Calvinism. I cannot wait to read more about the Huguenots. The characters were well-developed, and the author subtly ensured that the narrative was effective in passing on the intended message without alienating anyone. All the events and places were vividly described, which helped to capture my imagination. I also loved the steady narration, which kept me intrigued.

Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite

When you die and become an angel, you don't expect there to be so much paperwork. David Garcia fell to his death at age seventeen. He spent his first ten years filing papers for dead people, boring in the extreme, until the archdemon of angels threw his uneventful afterlife into chaos. Inexperienced and frozen with terror, David could not prevent the demon Malum from escaping. Blaming himself, he joins a group of demon hunters intent on recapturing Malum before he destroys the world. Armed with ten years of receptionist training, mediocre fighting skills, and non-stop self-deprecating sarcasm, David soon learns he is in way over his head.

Following the brilliant success of her first books in The Aurella Trilogy, Anni Sezate hits the ground running with book one of her new Afterlife Trilogy — I Fail at the Afterlife. Weaving intrigue, world-building, and fast-paced action with humor and a sense of realism through her first-person narratives, Ms. Sezate shows a firm grasp of what it's like being a teenager thrown into serious adult life and "death-like" situations. The first-person narrative is hard to write; trust me. Sezate, however, writes it with ease and a style that demonstrates her talent to the fullest. Another hurdle for many authors writing in the YA genre is actually getting into the heads of the younger characters and here again, the maturity of her writing skills shines through.