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The After War
Book One of The After War Series
Brandon Zenner
2019 Honorable Mention
444 Pages
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite
I’ve got good news for people who are fans of post-apocalyptic war stories. The After War by Brandon Zenner is the first book in The After War Series that will go down as one of the best in the genre. The writing is so good that you will feel you are right there in the ruins with these great characters, making decisions that will shape the destiny of the human race. These are stories of survival, but just as important, they are stories of hope. I’ve read a few post-apocalyptic tales, both individual stories and series dealing with this all too probable possibility, and The After War is one of the best I have read. It is rich in detail and the characters are fully human, with all the strengths and weaknesses that come with that. The After War grew on me, as I think Brandon Zenner intended it to do. Page by page, it introduces this strange new world to us. Then Zenner shows us the hard decisions that these survivors must come to grips with.
For the most part, the characters are always what attracts me most to a novel and The After War has some great ones, major and minor. I liked the two cousins most of all. Brian and Steve reminded me of the relationships I have had with relatives and friends over the years. Other characters like Simon and Carolanne were interesting but the cousins fascinated me. The plot is important in a story like this and Brandon Zenner handles plot well. There is a sense of building to something, and the wonders of this new reality are peeled off layer by layer. The setting is great and very believable. Everything is done well. You will like this book and find it hard to wait for the next one.
I’ve got good news for people who are fans of post-apocalyptic war stories. The After War by Brandon Zenner is the first book in The After War Series that will go down as one of the best in the genre. The writing is so good that you will feel you are right there in the ruins with these great characters, making decisions that will shape the destiny of the human race. These are stories of survival, but just as important, they are stories of hope. I’ve read a few post-apocalyptic tales, both individual stories and series dealing with this all too probable possibility, and The After War is one of the best I have read. It is rich in detail and the characters are fully human, with all the strengths and weaknesses that come with that. The After War grew on me, as I think Brandon Zenner intended it to do. Page by page, it introduces this strange new world to us. Then Zenner shows us the hard decisions that these survivors must come to grips with.
For the most part, the characters are always what attracts me most to a novel and The After War has some great ones, major and minor. I liked the two cousins most of all. Brian and Steve reminded me of the relationships I have had with relatives and friends over the years. Other characters like Simon and Carolanne were interesting but the cousins fascinated me. The plot is important in a story like this and Brandon Zenner handles plot well. There is a sense of building to something, and the wonders of this new reality are peeled off layer by layer. The setting is great and very believable. Everything is done well. You will like this book and find it hard to wait for the next one.
Recommend this book:
The 19th Bladesman
Shadow Sword series
S.J. Hartland
2019 Gold Medal
631 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
In The 19th Bladesman by S.J. Hartland, Kaell's destiny had been written long before he was ever born. It was his destiny to fight the ghouls, to keep their forces at bay, and to die young. But there is more to this title than just that. The 19th Bladesman had another prophecy attached to him. If the 19th Bladesman is broken, then an evil god seeking dominion over all will be freed from his prison, and the prophecy states he will be broken. Prophecies of death and consequences see many who seek Kaell's death, only the manner of its deliverance varies, depending on whose side they are on. Fate has been kind in sparing him twice, once as a child and once again as a young man once more in the same woman's clutches, but will his luck hold out? Can he overcome what fate has in store, and if he does, can he live with the consequences?
S.J. Hartland writes the kind of action scenes that effortlessly draw the reader in and have them visualizing the flurry of movement in such a masterful way that I have only ever encountered in a handful of authors. However, it is not only the fast-paced, heart-pounding action where the author excels, but the world building is also phenomenal, with clear attention paid to provide a rich culture, society, history, religion and structure. The scenes flow effortlessly into one another, making its size as an epic barely noticeable as you turn page after page, losing yourself in a clearly well-constructed plot that is driven by the varied cast of vivid characters. The characters are every bit as deep and complex as the world itself, each sporting their own drives, ambitions, agendas, and, of course, flaws. Danger lurks at every turn, and trust is a difficult commodity to invest in. Action, betrayal, peril, insight, and the moxie to defy fate itself propel the reader through a rollercoaster adventure like no other. I love a big book, and give this one my full recommendation, something I save only for the books that really make me invest in the plot and characters. The 19th Bladesman is my kind of story, and I can't wait to see where S.J. Hartland takes us next.
In The 19th Bladesman by S.J. Hartland, Kaell's destiny had been written long before he was ever born. It was his destiny to fight the ghouls, to keep their forces at bay, and to die young. But there is more to this title than just that. The 19th Bladesman had another prophecy attached to him. If the 19th Bladesman is broken, then an evil god seeking dominion over all will be freed from his prison, and the prophecy states he will be broken. Prophecies of death and consequences see many who seek Kaell's death, only the manner of its deliverance varies, depending on whose side they are on. Fate has been kind in sparing him twice, once as a child and once again as a young man once more in the same woman's clutches, but will his luck hold out? Can he overcome what fate has in store, and if he does, can he live with the consequences?
S.J. Hartland writes the kind of action scenes that effortlessly draw the reader in and have them visualizing the flurry of movement in such a masterful way that I have only ever encountered in a handful of authors. However, it is not only the fast-paced, heart-pounding action where the author excels, but the world building is also phenomenal, with clear attention paid to provide a rich culture, society, history, religion and structure. The scenes flow effortlessly into one another, making its size as an epic barely noticeable as you turn page after page, losing yourself in a clearly well-constructed plot that is driven by the varied cast of vivid characters. The characters are every bit as deep and complex as the world itself, each sporting their own drives, ambitions, agendas, and, of course, flaws. Danger lurks at every turn, and trust is a difficult commodity to invest in. Action, betrayal, peril, insight, and the moxie to defy fate itself propel the reader through a rollercoaster adventure like no other. I love a big book, and give this one my full recommendation, something I save only for the books that really make me invest in the plot and characters. The 19th Bladesman is my kind of story, and I can't wait to see where S.J. Hartland takes us next.
Recommend this book:
The Reckoning
The Legend of Oescienne (Book Five)
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
2019 Silver Medal
736 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Reckoning is the fifth and final book in The Legend of Oescienne series by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, an epic fantasy tale with an enchanting setting, compelling characters, mythical creatures and a conflict of huge proportions. Jahrra is the one destined to defeat the evil Crimson King, the one spoken of in the prophecy, but how she will do this is still unclear to her. The only problem is that the moment comes quicker than she expected and she is still a long way to figuring out how to defeat the most powerful enemy in the land. On another front, Jaax travels to the valley of the elves, seeking the help they need to bring down a ruthless tyrant. The Tanaan dragon shows signs that there could be more danger than Jaax might have thought. Two destinies at the crossroads, mysterious plots, and deadly enemies at every step of the way.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson crafts a work that will stay with readers. The beauty of the setting and how it reflects in the story is one of the things to praise this author for. The reader is greeted with vivid images that set the atmosphere — the icy breeze whispering across the vast tundra and ruffling the short, tough grass, the frigid sea and the cold mountains, and other rough conditions. The conclusion to this epic series is dramatic and explosive, a tale that inspires similar feelings reader have when traveling the world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The prose is exquisite, at times lyrical, and the narrative evokes the proverbial conflict between good and evil. The themes of war, adventure, and sacrifice are well developed. The characters evolve steadily with the story and I loved how the author builds the strength of the protagonist. I loved Jahrra and her sense of daring. I loved her in the choices she makes — difficult choices. The plot is intricately structured with surprises and turns that will give readers many an "Aha!" moment. The Reckoning is engaging and utterly delightful, a transporting kind of read.
The Reckoning is the fifth and final book in The Legend of Oescienne series by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, an epic fantasy tale with an enchanting setting, compelling characters, mythical creatures and a conflict of huge proportions. Jahrra is the one destined to defeat the evil Crimson King, the one spoken of in the prophecy, but how she will do this is still unclear to her. The only problem is that the moment comes quicker than she expected and she is still a long way to figuring out how to defeat the most powerful enemy in the land. On another front, Jaax travels to the valley of the elves, seeking the help they need to bring down a ruthless tyrant. The Tanaan dragon shows signs that there could be more danger than Jaax might have thought. Two destinies at the crossroads, mysterious plots, and deadly enemies at every step of the way.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson crafts a work that will stay with readers. The beauty of the setting and how it reflects in the story is one of the things to praise this author for. The reader is greeted with vivid images that set the atmosphere — the icy breeze whispering across the vast tundra and ruffling the short, tough grass, the frigid sea and the cold mountains, and other rough conditions. The conclusion to this epic series is dramatic and explosive, a tale that inspires similar feelings reader have when traveling the world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The prose is exquisite, at times lyrical, and the narrative evokes the proverbial conflict between good and evil. The themes of war, adventure, and sacrifice are well developed. The characters evolve steadily with the story and I loved how the author builds the strength of the protagonist. I loved Jahrra and her sense of daring. I loved her in the choices she makes — difficult choices. The plot is intricately structured with surprises and turns that will give readers many an "Aha!" moment. The Reckoning is engaging and utterly delightful, a transporting kind of read.
Recommend this book:
Crown of the Realm
All Things Impossible #1
D. Dalton
2019 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
In Crown of the Realm, Derora Saxen knew there was more to life than the quiet town she called home. But when the cultists turned up, looking for an outlaw, destiny came calling. When her father sent her on a quest to petition assistance, she had no idea of the danger. No idea that a plea for aid would result in her path crossing with enemies long forgotten, and put her and those who walked beside her in their sights. War is coming, and those already aware of the danger have done nothing but run. The time has come to make a stand, or watch the world burn.
Crown of the Realm is the first book in D. Dalton's All Things Impossible series. From the start, you are drawn straight in. From regicide to pony jousting, from cults to ancient and forgotten threats, it certainly encompasses a fantasy lover's expectations. The third person narrative is engaging, descriptive, and enjoyable, allowing you to breeze through as events unfold and the stakes rise. Loyalties and history are questioned as the choices made for the greater good seem to have consequences beyond those imagined. I enjoyed Derora's character; her moxie really made me smile, as did her persistence, perseverance, and strength of character. More than once I felt a pang of sympathy for those in her path, particularly her reluctant and long-suffering companion, Kelin. Danger, chaos, and questions drive the character-centered plot through an epic adventure fraught with peril. A great start to what promises to be a gripping series.
In Crown of the Realm, Derora Saxen knew there was more to life than the quiet town she called home. But when the cultists turned up, looking for an outlaw, destiny came calling. When her father sent her on a quest to petition assistance, she had no idea of the danger. No idea that a plea for aid would result in her path crossing with enemies long forgotten, and put her and those who walked beside her in their sights. War is coming, and those already aware of the danger have done nothing but run. The time has come to make a stand, or watch the world burn.
Crown of the Realm is the first book in D. Dalton's All Things Impossible series. From the start, you are drawn straight in. From regicide to pony jousting, from cults to ancient and forgotten threats, it certainly encompasses a fantasy lover's expectations. The third person narrative is engaging, descriptive, and enjoyable, allowing you to breeze through as events unfold and the stakes rise. Loyalties and history are questioned as the choices made for the greater good seem to have consequences beyond those imagined. I enjoyed Derora's character; her moxie really made me smile, as did her persistence, perseverance, and strength of character. More than once I felt a pang of sympathy for those in her path, particularly her reluctant and long-suffering companion, Kelin. Danger, chaos, and questions drive the character-centered plot through an epic adventure fraught with peril. A great start to what promises to be a gripping series.
Recommend this book:
Queens - The Wielders of Arantha
Book Two
Patrick Hodges
2019 Bronze Medal
463 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite
Queens by Patrick Hodges is the second book in The Wielders of Arantha series, an excellent blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Can a deadly prophecy about an imminent destruction be avoided? Elzor is on the path to acquire absolute power and nothing will stand on his way, even if it means reducing Ixtrayu to ashes. Following the warning from Kelia, their leader, Maeve and her son, Davin, join the Ixtrayu, but can they make any difference in a conflict involving such powerful forces? Thrust into an alien world, earthlings Maeve and Davin discover the truth about their powers, but can Maeve master her gift in time to stop the impending disaster?
This is the first book I have read by this author. I missed the first installment in the series — now I will have to go back to read it — but this one is well-crafted to read as a standalone novel, with enough backstory to pull the reader into the narrative. I enjoyed the world that Patrick Hodges creates for his readers, an exciting universe with elements that readers can easily see in their mind’s eyes. In works of this kind, I am very particular about the setting and the author doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The story flows flawlessly, driven by a huge conflict, and the characters are rock solid, crafted with depth and intelligence. The writing in Queens is stellar and readers will be absorbed by the vivid descriptions, enticed by the intelligent dialogues, and blown away by the intense action. I couldn’t put it down.
Queens by Patrick Hodges is the second book in The Wielders of Arantha series, an excellent blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Can a deadly prophecy about an imminent destruction be avoided? Elzor is on the path to acquire absolute power and nothing will stand on his way, even if it means reducing Ixtrayu to ashes. Following the warning from Kelia, their leader, Maeve and her son, Davin, join the Ixtrayu, but can they make any difference in a conflict involving such powerful forces? Thrust into an alien world, earthlings Maeve and Davin discover the truth about their powers, but can Maeve master her gift in time to stop the impending disaster?
This is the first book I have read by this author. I missed the first installment in the series — now I will have to go back to read it — but this one is well-crafted to read as a standalone novel, with enough backstory to pull the reader into the narrative. I enjoyed the world that Patrick Hodges creates for his readers, an exciting universe with elements that readers can easily see in their mind’s eyes. In works of this kind, I am very particular about the setting and the author doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The story flows flawlessly, driven by a huge conflict, and the characters are rock solid, crafted with depth and intelligence. The writing in Queens is stellar and readers will be absorbed by the vivid descriptions, enticed by the intelligent dialogues, and blown away by the intense action. I couldn’t put it down.
Recommend this book:
The Steel Queen
The Silk & Steel Saga Book 1
Karen Azinger
2019 Honorable Mention
400 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Steel Queen is a powerful opening in The Silk & Steel Saga series by Karen Azinger; it’s an explosive beginning for a saga that comprises seven books. In a story set in the medieval kingdoms of Erdhe, readers are plunged in a world of intrigue, stabbings-in-the-back, painful betrayals, greed, love, and many themes of epic tales. The setting is a place where magic has almost completely been eliminated after the great wars of wizards. No one wants magic, but there are remnants of it and Castlegard is its most powerful evocation. With a cast of memorable characters, readers follow an intricately woven story, with dizzying action as a young princess stands up against the domineering strength of an aged evil. It’s a game of power, a fight for the control of the kingdoms of Erdhe.
The action is fast and intense, tantalizing, and cinematic, the kind you find in epic works of fantasy. The characters are exceptional and readers will be seduced by the female characters in the story and the roles they play, including the young Katherine. Karen Azinger has a unique gift for plot, creating a tapestry where different stories intertwine into a bold and daring narrative. The subplots are awesome and it’s impossible to ignore any part of the story. Her characters will haunt you, the plot will keep your heart racing, and the exquisite prose has a magic of its own. This author uses suspense to keep your attention, making the writing atmospheric, and creating worlds that are the best escape for fans of epic fantasy. The Steel Queen is written for mature audiences and it features themes of war, love, magic, and the quest for immortality. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
The Steel Queen is a powerful opening in The Silk & Steel Saga series by Karen Azinger; it’s an explosive beginning for a saga that comprises seven books. In a story set in the medieval kingdoms of Erdhe, readers are plunged in a world of intrigue, stabbings-in-the-back, painful betrayals, greed, love, and many themes of epic tales. The setting is a place where magic has almost completely been eliminated after the great wars of wizards. No one wants magic, but there are remnants of it and Castlegard is its most powerful evocation. With a cast of memorable characters, readers follow an intricately woven story, with dizzying action as a young princess stands up against the domineering strength of an aged evil. It’s a game of power, a fight for the control of the kingdoms of Erdhe.
The action is fast and intense, tantalizing, and cinematic, the kind you find in epic works of fantasy. The characters are exceptional and readers will be seduced by the female characters in the story and the roles they play, including the young Katherine. Karen Azinger has a unique gift for plot, creating a tapestry where different stories intertwine into a bold and daring narrative. The subplots are awesome and it’s impossible to ignore any part of the story. Her characters will haunt you, the plot will keep your heart racing, and the exquisite prose has a magic of its own. This author uses suspense to keep your attention, making the writing atmospheric, and creating worlds that are the best escape for fans of epic fantasy. The Steel Queen is written for mature audiences and it features themes of war, love, magic, and the quest for immortality. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Recommend this book:
The Winter of Swords
A Grimdark Epic (Overthrown Book 1)
Aaron Bunce
2019 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Maureen Dangarembizi for Readers' Favorite
The Winter of Swords by Aaron Bunce is an epic fantasy set in the land of Denoril. Denoril was once ruled by a monarchy until they were overthrown and replaced by the Council of Lords. When Eisa and her brothers disturb tower ruins they uncover a menace hiding in the shadows. Eisa escapes death but a worse fate awaits her at the hands of her monstrous captor. In Bardstown, evil hiding in the shadows is killing people. Roman, an orphan who has survived two attacks, is blamed for the murder. With only a handful of people believing in his innocence, can he unmask the true killer? Barden’s Reach is under siege by gnarls and it’s only a matter of time before the town is overrun. Julian sets out to save the woman he loves but instead finds a deposed monarch and an ancient evil waiting to shroud the kingdom in darkness.
The Winter of Swords has the makings of a thriller in its pages. From the start, Aaron Bunce takes the reader on a spine-tingling journey. The bad guys were really scary and the near-death scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are relatable and the reader is quickly drawn into their lives and what drives them in the story. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and gives the reader a broad understanding of Denoril and its citizens. The Winter of Swords ends on a cliffhanger so the reader has at least one more book to look forward to after reading this novel. I really enjoyed reading this book.
The Winter of Swords by Aaron Bunce is an epic fantasy set in the land of Denoril. Denoril was once ruled by a monarchy until they were overthrown and replaced by the Council of Lords. When Eisa and her brothers disturb tower ruins they uncover a menace hiding in the shadows. Eisa escapes death but a worse fate awaits her at the hands of her monstrous captor. In Bardstown, evil hiding in the shadows is killing people. Roman, an orphan who has survived two attacks, is blamed for the murder. With only a handful of people believing in his innocence, can he unmask the true killer? Barden’s Reach is under siege by gnarls and it’s only a matter of time before the town is overrun. Julian sets out to save the woman he loves but instead finds a deposed monarch and an ancient evil waiting to shroud the kingdom in darkness.
The Winter of Swords has the makings of a thriller in its pages. From the start, Aaron Bunce takes the reader on a spine-tingling journey. The bad guys were really scary and the near-death scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters are relatable and the reader is quickly drawn into their lives and what drives them in the story. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view and gives the reader a broad understanding of Denoril and its citizens. The Winter of Swords ends on a cliffhanger so the reader has at least one more book to look forward to after reading this novel. I really enjoyed reading this book.
Recommend this book:
Shadow of the Overlord
The Calamity Book 1
Kevin Potter
2019 Honorable Mention
679 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
The Free States is on the brink of collapse due to the absence of its king and heir as well as manipulation by a mastermind who works in the shadow. Taliesimon is a farmer's daughter who longs to be the first female Dragoon warrior, despite the discrimination from the commander and his lackeys. William is a traveling mercenary with a secret past. A violent raid by strange humanoid creatures brings the two together, along with an unexpected alliance with a half-elf, a dwarf, and ultimately a peace-loving dragon. Meanwhile, the Dragon Overlord is progressing with his plan to conquer the world and enslave other beings under his reign. Shadow of the Overlord (The Calamity, Book 1) by Kevin Potter is an epic sword and sorcery fantasy adventure for fans of the genre.
This multifaceted plot is filled with detailed, grand fight scenes and creatures galore. Starting with a gritty prologue that's engaging right away, Kevin Potter's Shadow of the Overlord is told through the perspectives of a number of lead characters. The attention given to their backstory is deftly balanced, giving each of them sufficient time and room for vital development and good depth of personality. Divided into three parts, we get to know the protagonists who will cross each other's paths in unexpected circumstances. I gravitated towards the tenacious Taliesimon, who perseveres along with her friend, Okara, to prove that female Dragoons are as good as their counterparts. Overall, this debut for The Calamity series is entertaining and has the classic charm that reminds me of all the fantasy adventure novels that I’ve read in my younger days. I look forward to reading how the characters will survive the next onslaught.
The Free States is on the brink of collapse due to the absence of its king and heir as well as manipulation by a mastermind who works in the shadow. Taliesimon is a farmer's daughter who longs to be the first female Dragoon warrior, despite the discrimination from the commander and his lackeys. William is a traveling mercenary with a secret past. A violent raid by strange humanoid creatures brings the two together, along with an unexpected alliance with a half-elf, a dwarf, and ultimately a peace-loving dragon. Meanwhile, the Dragon Overlord is progressing with his plan to conquer the world and enslave other beings under his reign. Shadow of the Overlord (The Calamity, Book 1) by Kevin Potter is an epic sword and sorcery fantasy adventure for fans of the genre.
This multifaceted plot is filled with detailed, grand fight scenes and creatures galore. Starting with a gritty prologue that's engaging right away, Kevin Potter's Shadow of the Overlord is told through the perspectives of a number of lead characters. The attention given to their backstory is deftly balanced, giving each of them sufficient time and room for vital development and good depth of personality. Divided into three parts, we get to know the protagonists who will cross each other's paths in unexpected circumstances. I gravitated towards the tenacious Taliesimon, who perseveres along with her friend, Okara, to prove that female Dragoons are as good as their counterparts. Overall, this debut for The Calamity series is entertaining and has the classic charm that reminds me of all the fantasy adventure novels that I’ve read in my younger days. I look forward to reading how the characters will survive the next onslaught.
Recommend this book:
The Indivisible and the Void
Age of Axion Book 1
D.M. Wozniak
2019 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Joel R. Dennstedt for Readers' Favorite
“A lie is just another form of ownership.” The science fiction worlds of D.M. Wozniak are littered with intelligence, creativity, and emotionally relevant, present moment details, making them wonderfully satisfying to any reader. It is impossible to discuss/review The Indivisible and The Void without first making these important observations, for the mechanics of serious writing must be mastered in order to create this kind of highly plausible, fascinating, fantastic fiction in a genre prone to hyperbolic shallowness when explored by lesser mortals. D.M. Wozniak gets it right. He knows that character drives a great story, and that internal consistency drives the world of science fiction. All authors risk their reader’s abrupt loss of attention and loyalty should they lazily or inadvertently ignore either character or place. Wozniak does neither.
In The Indivisible and The Void, D.M. Wozniak gets it more than right. Immediately immersed into a future/ancient world meticulously but quickly brought into the reader’s view, one feels present in a most appealing way, as if he or she belongs. Even the advanced science (magical in its maturity) feels natural to this society that appears medieval (or even older). The plot ignites right from the start: intimate betrayal, with a related compulsive mystery to unravel, and sudden if unintended treachery towards a ruthless king. All this for a main character who is able to bend at will the basic elements of reality, if not without enduring personal limitations or inciting escalating, untold consequences. Add to this the uninvited help of a young woman skilled solely in the oldest of professions… Are you hooked? Of course, you are! You should be. This is inspired writing, and a truly excellent, sometimes heart-stopping, sometimes explosive, science fiction/fantasy read.
“A lie is just another form of ownership.” The science fiction worlds of D.M. Wozniak are littered with intelligence, creativity, and emotionally relevant, present moment details, making them wonderfully satisfying to any reader. It is impossible to discuss/review The Indivisible and The Void without first making these important observations, for the mechanics of serious writing must be mastered in order to create this kind of highly plausible, fascinating, fantastic fiction in a genre prone to hyperbolic shallowness when explored by lesser mortals. D.M. Wozniak gets it right. He knows that character drives a great story, and that internal consistency drives the world of science fiction. All authors risk their reader’s abrupt loss of attention and loyalty should they lazily or inadvertently ignore either character or place. Wozniak does neither.
In The Indivisible and The Void, D.M. Wozniak gets it more than right. Immediately immersed into a future/ancient world meticulously but quickly brought into the reader’s view, one feels present in a most appealing way, as if he or she belongs. Even the advanced science (magical in its maturity) feels natural to this society that appears medieval (or even older). The plot ignites right from the start: intimate betrayal, with a related compulsive mystery to unravel, and sudden if unintended treachery towards a ruthless king. All this for a main character who is able to bend at will the basic elements of reality, if not without enduring personal limitations or inciting escalating, untold consequences. Add to this the uninvited help of a young woman skilled solely in the oldest of professions… Are you hooked? Of course, you are! You should be. This is inspired writing, and a truly excellent, sometimes heart-stopping, sometimes explosive, science fiction/fantasy read.
Recommend this book:
, but The Black Widow Connection (Blue Star Book 1) by TK Rising has had that distinct effect on me. What I thought was a simple story of an abused woman beaten down by society suddenly morphed into something totally different. It threw me for six and had me t...){kind=link}
The Black Widow Connection
Blue Star Book 1
TK Rising
2019 Finalist
221 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
As a book reviewer, it’s not often I’m lost for words (in a good way, I hasten to add), but The Black Widow Connection (Blue Star Book 1) by TK Rising has had that distinct effect on me. What I thought was a simple story of an abused woman beaten down by society suddenly morphed into something totally different. It threw me for six and had me thinking deeply about philosophical insights into our purpose of being. Tracy Kirin had a tough life. She was abused as a child by her father and neglected by a mother who knew about the abuse and did nothing. She drifted through her life, forming only partially meaningful relationships, drifting from job to job, never really putting her roots down anywhere, always tormented by unexpected tragedies and weird dreams. She is determined not to repeat the sins of her parents but is unable to ever feel “at home” or “comfortable” anywhere – and then she dies. I’m not even going to hint at what happens to Tracy after she dies as I’d hate to spoil the surprise for future readers but, suffice it to say, it surprised, shocked and stunned me.
The Black Widow Connection (Blue Star Book 1) is right up there among the oddest and yet strangely most satisfying books I’ve ever read. Author TK Rising’s imagination and interesting theories (if that’s what they are) make for fascinating reading in the second half of the book. The whole premise of the book turns upside down in part two of the story and it is that premise that makes this story such compelling reading. Having written off the character, Tracy, as a hopeless and incapable woman, suddenly the reader is introduced to a new woman, one who has the ability to make a massive difference in the future of humanity and life on earth. This juxtaposition between live Tracy and dead Tracy is what lifts this story out of its sad and listless beginnings. A very readable story suddenly becomes a totally compelling tale. I salute the author’s bravery and note that this is merely the first of a series of Blue Star books. I can only say, I am compelled to read on and see what happens next.
As a book reviewer, it’s not often I’m lost for words (in a good way, I hasten to add), but The Black Widow Connection (Blue Star Book 1) by TK Rising has had that distinct effect on me. What I thought was a simple story of an abused woman beaten down by society suddenly morphed into something totally different. It threw me for six and had me thinking deeply about philosophical insights into our purpose of being. Tracy Kirin had a tough life. She was abused as a child by her father and neglected by a mother who knew about the abuse and did nothing. She drifted through her life, forming only partially meaningful relationships, drifting from job to job, never really putting her roots down anywhere, always tormented by unexpected tragedies and weird dreams. She is determined not to repeat the sins of her parents but is unable to ever feel “at home” or “comfortable” anywhere – and then she dies. I’m not even going to hint at what happens to Tracy after she dies as I’d hate to spoil the surprise for future readers but, suffice it to say, it surprised, shocked and stunned me.
The Black Widow Connection (Blue Star Book 1) is right up there among the oddest and yet strangely most satisfying books I’ve ever read. Author TK Rising’s imagination and interesting theories (if that’s what they are) make for fascinating reading in the second half of the book. The whole premise of the book turns upside down in part two of the story and it is that premise that makes this story such compelling reading. Having written off the character, Tracy, as a hopeless and incapable woman, suddenly the reader is introduced to a new woman, one who has the ability to make a massive difference in the future of humanity and life on earth. This juxtaposition between live Tracy and dead Tracy is what lifts this story out of its sad and listless beginnings. A very readable story suddenly becomes a totally compelling tale. I salute the author’s bravery and note that this is merely the first of a series of Blue Star books. I can only say, I am compelled to read on and see what happens next.
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