Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

After a traumatic car accident, a high school student suffers from amnesia that conceals more than teenage angst in the dramatic Young Adult fiction novel What The Valley Knows by Heather Christie. Molly Hanover and her mother Ann have just relocated to Millington Valley. Ann's new boss has offered one of his superior rental properties to them for half the price. Happy to move out of the small, stuffy apartment, they are excited to begin their new lives. Ann has finally got her paralegal license and has a good job, and Molly is looking forward to her senior year. However, men recently introduced into their lives begin to cause havoc. After a late night visit from one of them, Molly now has a horrible secret. If she tells someone, the consequences could be dire. What should she do? However, that problem is moot when Molly is in an accident, and the memory is erased. Will the loss of her memory leave someone else in danger?

What The Valley Knows by Heather Christie is a sensational Young Adult fiction novel that leaves the reader feeling empowered. The story takes the reader from tragedy to triumph as they observe the heartrending and traumatic circumstances that Molly and her mother encounter. It is uplifting to experience Molly's journey from emotions of grief and loss, to see how those feelings are transformed into promise and personal power. It is also very gratifying to see the villain, who is victimizing innocents, brought to justice. This sensational novel is a moving, poignant story and is ideal for readers over the age of sixteen, due to some of the adult content.

Reviewed by Aimee Carol Dixon for Readers' Favorite

Billy is a spirited, good-hearted young man with dreams far bigger than the Valley of the Yew. It isn’t that he minds working alongside his father in The Valley’s Finest Inn. He could find a future happiness if he stayed. But when a noble guest invites him to go on the road with her, Billy leaps at the chance to make his dreams come true. Little does he know that the world beyond his cozy home is a more hostile place than he could ever have imagined, filled with dangers from which his father has done everything in his power to protect Billy.

Dancing back and forth between a unique idea for younger readers and one for older audiences, The Innkeeper’s Son stands strong in a place of universal appeal. There’s a delicate balance between the silly – lending itself to younger readers – and the darker, more mature themes that highlights K.C. Herbel’s skill. The effort made to make The Innkeeper’s Son such a solid work shines through every page; from the quiet strength of the common folk to the imbuing of life into the land and animals, Herbel never disappoints. There are a few rough spots scattered throughout, but none great enough to mar the first installment in a new fantasy series that should definitely be on your bookshelf.

It's a fast read, even taking into account the frequent pauses I took to admire the scenery. Herbel paints a beautiful landscape through the eyes of Billy, the young protagonist who sees the world with a child’s wonder even while confronting dark forces he’s never before known. Indeed, there is an unmistakable sense of magic to the countryside of The Innkeeper’s Son, drawing a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world into the whole work. Billy’s innate response to despair in himself and others adds much-needed lightness for those around him, earning him a cherished place in the hearts of most everyone he meets. Herbel does not shy away from allowing each character to have their own private pain, giving them a depth that cannot be overrated. A truly magical journey, and a delight to read.

Reviewed by Sarah Scheele for Readers' Favorite

Orville Mouse and the Puzzle of the Last Metaphonium by Tom Hoffman is an expertly written fantasy novel. It’s the fourth in a series about the Metaphysical Adventurer (a.k.a. world-hopping) Orville Wellington Mouse. Orville is a shaper, meaning he’s magically gifted, and when a highly interactive dream about a ghost and a book fair leaves him with a weird book in a language no one can read, his sassy girlfriend, Sophia, and their loyal ally, Proto, join him on a quest to decode the book. The results uncover a long-lost piece of ancient history and when the adventurers enter the surreal world of Elysian in search of a friend’s long-lost wife, they take on the mysterious Shadow King, accompanied by an austere monk who’s more than he seems. Will Orville be able to find reality and solve the puzzle of the Last Metaphonium?

Tom Hoffman is a delight to read. His world is endlessly complex, varied, and filled with flights of fancy, yet completely true and simple as well. The characters ring with a deep, supple humanity, and I was captivated, wanting to know what would happen next. Action, comedy, mystery, adventure, romance—it’s all here. Orville’s many little quirks make him thoroughly well-rounded, and the underlying theme that love and honesty can overcome fears was handled as melodiously as the concept of the piano-like Metaphonium, in which sets of keys provide portals to other worlds. Quiet sidekick Proto absolutely steals the show, his fears that he’s not loved and accepted threading a delicate subplot that is as poignant as it is satisfying. Verbally enchanting, emotionally human, and philosophically relevant, The Puzzle of the Last Metaphonium blends many genres into a really fun read.

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

There is lot of literary beauty in book 1 of the Book of Theo series, Theo and the Forbidden Language by Melanie Ansley, from the excellent prose to world building, from character to plot and the awesome things in between. It is a fable with powerful lessons on slavery, oppression, and man’s undying desire to subdue others. Mankahar is a place where it is forbidden to speak and write and where the human empire use a poison called pacification to rob animals of speech. The human empire is bent on capturing animals to use them as slaves on the farms, but there is a power that stands against them — The Order. It’s the society of free animals who are fighting for their cause. Meanwhile, the rabbit Theo hides a terrible secret — he has mastered the forbidden language and the secret to deciphering words. Now he has joined Brune, the bear with the axe, in the fight to defend his kind. Theo will have to risk everything to protect his kind.

This is a gorgeous narrative and Melanie Ansley surprised me on innumerable counts, exploring characters in a way that makes animals take on human attributes. The narrative style is unique and the author creates scenes that are focused, allowing readers beautiful visuals of the setting and action. Ansley pays great attention to the tone and, aside from the absorbing narrative voice, the dialogues are well-crafted, capturing the unique accents of the characters. Readers will love the characters, who are infused with human feeling and emotions. My favorites were Theo, Fr. Oaks, Walnut, and Brune, the axe-wielding bear. Fans of Animal Farm by George Orwell will love this book. It’s well-plotted and laced with wisdom and elements of the conspiracies readers encounter in human politics. Themes of friendship, survival, and slavery, and the fight for justice are well explored. You will be transported into an exciting and unique world, be captivated by the mesmerizing prose, and delighted at the cinematic style writing. Adults as well as kids will enjoy this story. Can’t wait for the next ride with Theo!

Reviewed by Heather Osborne for Readers' Favorite

The Carnelian is the first book in The Gemstone Chronicles by William L. Stuart. Maggie and Aiden come to stay with Nana and Beebop, their grandparents, for spring break. Their time is usually spent jet skiing, rock hounding, and four-wheeling. On one of the rock hounding expeditions with Beebop, Maggie finds an oddly-shaped rock in the form of a cross. That night, a mysterious human-like shape appears in her room, beseeching them to free him from his prison. Beebop determines they must return the stone to the woods, but Maggie and Aiden have other ideas. They break the rock, freeing a Light Elf by the name of Findecano. He was imprisoned by evil forces of the Drow, a mysterious evil power of his world. The four humans are drawn into an adventure to seek out the missing stones of the Elven bow and put a stop to the evil spreading throughout his world. Will they manage to make it through the first quest alive?

Mr. Stuart is a very clever storyteller. I liked all the factoids about gemstones and their various protective elements. His twist on Elven mythology was also unique. I found the characters entertaining, especially Maggie. She had to be my favorite out of the group, especially with her ferret, Lucy. I felt that the book could use a second editor’s eye to tighten up some of the sentences and remove excess word usage. Other than that, I found The Gemstone Chronicles, Book One: The Carnelian compelling and I am looking forward to reading the continued adventures of the group!

Reviewed by Stephen Fisher for Readers' Favorite

Secrets of the Home Wood - The Sacrifice by Julie Whitley is about a family that lives next a mysterious forest named the Home Wood. There are tales of family members disappearing after crossing the brook where sometimes they don’t return. The story begins with the disappearance of Sarah, after an argument with her husband David. When David calls Sarah’s workplace, he finds that Sarah never showed up. David rushes out to look for her. Overhearing the conversation on the phone, their son Jonathon, rushes out of the house, but not before his grandfather gives him some fruit and a protein bar for his backpack. One at a time, Sarah, David, and Jonathon are pulled into the alternate dimension. Since David became a hero in this mysterious land when he was Jonathon’s age, he is reunited with the Sanigglans. When Jonathon finds his way to the forest kingdom, he is befriended by Pugg, the son of the leader of the Sanigglans. They arrive on the brink of war with the Grue. The chief’s wife has been captured by the Grue, and is to be sacrificed during the next full moon. If that happens, all is lost.

Julie Whitley does a magnificent job of traversing back and forth between our family of heroes, making sure to leave each of the characters with a cliffhanger. Her writing style reminds me of Terry Brooks. As the race against time ensues, while the family members are trying desperately to reunite, they are beseeched by desperate events that require them to improvise, and find courage within themselves. Sarah, with the help of her father-in-law’s brother, who had disappeared into the Home Wood many years ago, discovers a diabolical plot behind enemy lines. Julie’s characters are real, and she really captures the essence of family ties, albeit good guys, or bad. Secrets of the Home Wood is an adventure on all levels, with lots of twists and surprises. Brava, Ms. Whitley!

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Elle Burton and the Reflective Portals: Lessons from Fiori Book 1 by Peggy M McAloon and Anneka Rogers is an enchanting and fantastical story of Elle, a ten-year-old girl who has this rare gift to see fairy-like Fiorins. Elle’s father is in Afghanistan and she lives with her mother, who is expecting a baby. Elle learns that she has been chosen as a guide by Fiorins, who are tiny winged creatures that help to protect young children on Earth when her younger brother is born. As the story progresses, readers see Elle taking on new challenges and getting involved in protecting a child from an abusive father, helping an overweight girl, and many other instances where she feels her help is needed.

This is a story of kindness, enchantment, and magic, and the author weaves the fantasy elements along with life lessons through this whimsical story. The author touches on topics that are relevant when it comes to the struggles faced by children, and readers get to see the protagonist, Elle, dealing with all sorts of issues. The exquisite use of language tones down the harshness of death, bullying etc. and the whimsy in the tale will help young readers enjoy the story as they turn the pages. All the characters are lovable and the monsters and magical creatures add to the fantasy element. Elle Burton’s character will inspire children to follow their passions in life.

I like the manner in which the author tackles different issues, thereby giving many layers to the plot. The messages conveyed in the story are profound and uplifting and they will encourage and motivate children to rise above their potential during difficult times so that they can make a difference to this world. Yes, like everyone else, I am waiting for the next book to learn more about Elle’s journey.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

The Rampart Guards by Wendy Terrien is Chronicle One in the Adventures of Jason Lex. After Jason Lex's mom disappears one night, his dad decides to move him and his siblings closer to their grandma and the uncle their mom never wanted them to meet. When he starts seeing flying creatures, he turns to his uncle for answers and discovers a family secret. The flying creatures are called skyfish, and exist unseen with several other cryptids, including the Mongolian Death Worm. Not sure who he can trust, Jason has to fight against a surprising enemy in order to save his family and find his destiny.

Wendy Terrien brings to life a world where cryptids are real, and connects to well-known history with fun twists. The skyfish are fascinating creatures that are said to be playful and are unable to be seen by the human eye, yet Jason's destiny begins when he sees them. This is just the beginning of his journey as he overcomes tragedy and danger. The end is just the beginning as it's clear that there's more to come for Jason to fulfill his destiny. Jason's life is flipped upside down when his mom mysteriously vanishes, and he's uprooted to a new town. Sadie gives him a friend, a confidant, and connects him to this new place where she knows everyone. Secrets are everywhere as Jason discovers why his mom didn't want his uncle around, why she left that night, and the startling secret that his brother has been keeping. The Rampart Guards is a brilliant story of a young hero's journey, with family secrets, betrayal, tragedy, and friendship. Aimed at young adults, but perfect for anyone who loves adventure and cryptozoology!

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

The League of Governors: Chronicle Two – Jason by Wendy Terrien is an Adventures of Jason Lex novel. Jason saved the world, but he wasn't able to save his mom. He's trying to get his life back together now that he knows a secret world of cryptids exists, but his little sister only seems to be getting worse. After his dad takes Della to London to see the League of Governors, they stop responding to Jason's phone calls. Add to that a mysterious coin that glows, and Jason knows there's more going on than meets the eye. When he and his Uncle Alexander travel to London for answers, they find a deeper conspiracy. Suddenly Jason's been rescued and held captive by the League. Everyone around him behaves strangely and no one will give him clear answers. Even his dad has a personality change. As he digs into the League's motives, he uncovers a plan to take over the world and a shocking family secret.

Jason's adventures are far from over after seemingly stopping his mother's plans. Some might say his troubles have only just begun. Most of the focus is on the conspiracy within the League, as they pose the greatest threat to Jason and his family. When Jason's drawn into the League, he's not sure who to trust so everyone around him looks suspicious, which makes him feel trapped and alone. He has a realistic outlook on everything happening around him as he goes through quite an emotional journey, filled with anger and despair but also strength and hope. His hero's journey has only just started as he continues to fight back, even in small ways, while also having to consistently pick himself up and keep moving forward.

The League is presented in an interesting way, with a chilling appearance of an Utopia with Jason directly in the middle of it, alone and confused, trying to figure out who to trust and how to get out. On the surface it seems almost perfect and merry, with everything - even punishments - being viewed as a good thing. With every turn Jason uncovers a bit more that deepens the conspiracy in dark and twisted ways. Wendy Terrien creates a faux Utopia in a perfectly creepy way that ups the danger the further Jason unravels and continues to work in Terrien's twist on cryptids. Family is at the heart of Jason's journey as he struggles to protect those he loves and everything he knew is threatened. The League of Governors is a nerve-wracking, suspenseful read from beginning to end, a hero's journey with twists on cryptids and a dark conspiracy.

Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

Dealing with the Devil is the first book in The Earthwalker Trilogy, written by Jennifer Siddoway. While visiting her comatose Romani mother in hospital, Wynnona (Wynn) Hendricks catches a glimpse of a handsome stranger in the lobby, staring back at her. Back at home, Wynn finds herself face to face with none other than Lucifer himself, who reveals a shocking secret which forces Wynn to question who her mother had truly been, and the color of her tainted soul. After being rescued by Caleb (a celestial guardian), Wynn is forced to stand trial for her life. With angelic Caleb and purely evil Lucifer cemented into her life, Wynn is destined to fight a terrifying inner battle of good versus evil within her very soul.

In possibly one of the most intense plot twists I have ever read, Dealing with the Devil has everything occult fans could desire. Not only has Jennifer Siddoway created a character whose innocent life seemingly careens off course without any notice, but the level of deception involved in each character's interaction is intense. What I loved the most about this book is that it throws the reader into a world which is so phantasmagorical, immersing them into different realms of both darkness and light. Just as I thought I’d developed a firm grip on the story’s plot lines, each one becomes shrouded in an infinite number of questions, leaving the reader desperate for more and more information, so that they might also come to a logical conclusion.

Dealing with the Devil is left open, making way for the second installment (which I simply cannot wait to read). It is so rare that I come across an occult tale which leaves me with goosebumps – not of the horrific kind – but Jennifer Siddoway’s first book in the series has done just that. I look forward to reading what comes next for Wynn, and recommend Dealing with the Devil to fans of the paranormal genre who do not mind being blind-sided by what jumps out of the shadows of each thrilling chapter.