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Recommend this book:
The Accidental Cop
Eve Koguce
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Accidental Cop by Eve Koguce is criminal fiction at its best. Roberts Bergs is a cop in 1990s Latvia, struggling to make ends meet. He’s cold, tired, hungry, and just trying to survive each day. Despite his struggles, he has a dream – he wants to be a lawyer. But Latvia has only recently been freed from Soviet rule and the system is still run by the ex-Soviet militia. It’s not what you know; it’s who you know. Roberts won’t allow himself to be pushed down, and he continues working toward his aims. But things are heating up between those who bow down to ex-Soviet corruption and those who want more. Roberts is stuck between a rock and a hard place – does he stick to his principles or fold? It’s getting harder for him to stay true to himself. Can he fight the system, or is he doomed to fall in line like everyone else?
The Accidental Cop by Eve Koguce is a wonderful police crime thriller, very dark and gritty, and with plenty of tension. This is quite a relevant story in today’s world, given its setting in post-Soviet-era Latvia in the 1990s. The author has clearly done much research and gives us a real depiction of what life was like after the fall of the USSR; the descriptive writing makes you feel you are there. This is a compelling read with some wonderfully developed and very realistic characters. You’ll feel for the main character, Roberts, all the way through, rooting for him to beat the system and achieve his aims. This is an amazing read, and it will anchor you firmly in the real world, perhaps opening your eyes to what really goes on. This may be fiction, but it’s as real as it gets.
The Accidental Cop by Eve Koguce is criminal fiction at its best. Roberts Bergs is a cop in 1990s Latvia, struggling to make ends meet. He’s cold, tired, hungry, and just trying to survive each day. Despite his struggles, he has a dream – he wants to be a lawyer. But Latvia has only recently been freed from Soviet rule and the system is still run by the ex-Soviet militia. It’s not what you know; it’s who you know. Roberts won’t allow himself to be pushed down, and he continues working toward his aims. But things are heating up between those who bow down to ex-Soviet corruption and those who want more. Roberts is stuck between a rock and a hard place – does he stick to his principles or fold? It’s getting harder for him to stay true to himself. Can he fight the system, or is he doomed to fall in line like everyone else?
The Accidental Cop by Eve Koguce is a wonderful police crime thriller, very dark and gritty, and with plenty of tension. This is quite a relevant story in today’s world, given its setting in post-Soviet-era Latvia in the 1990s. The author has clearly done much research and gives us a real depiction of what life was like after the fall of the USSR; the descriptive writing makes you feel you are there. This is a compelling read with some wonderfully developed and very realistic characters. You’ll feel for the main character, Roberts, all the way through, rooting for him to beat the system and achieve his aims. This is an amazing read, and it will anchor you firmly in the real world, perhaps opening your eyes to what really goes on. This may be fiction, but it’s as real as it gets.
Recommend this book:
The Invisible Red String
A love story that transcends time, place, and circumstance
Ann Zachariah, Peter Berlin
2024 Gold Medal
310 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Invisible Red String by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah invites readers into a world where the ancient concept of an invisible red string intricately weaves love, fate, and healing together. This metaphorical bond connects people across time and space. The novel is uplifting and thought-provoking, delving into the spiritual and emotional journeys of characters whose lives become interconnected through unexpected circumstances. The story centers around John, a successful entrepreneur and devoted father to his son, Noah, who has Down Syndrome. His chance discovery of a mysterious notice promising “hidden treasure” leads him to Soul Haven, a therapy group facilitated by the empathetic Dr. Kathy Rodrigues. What initially seems like an ordinary group session transforms into a profound journey of self-discovery and connection. John, along with fellow group members Anna, Jake, and Lilly, uncovers deep emotional ties that transcend culture, race, and time.
Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah masterfully craft vivid, multi-dimensional characters that are easy to empathize with, making their personal growth deeply inspiring. The book’s philosophical underpinnings, especially the idea of the red string connecting people beyond rational understanding, elevate it to a realm beyond conventional love stories. Each character brings a rich backstory, and their stories blend to form a narrative that’s as much about healing and redemption as it is about love. Through their interactions, the authors explore the depth of human relationships, the lingering effects of trauma, and the possibility of spiritual connections that guide us. The Invisible Red String is a cultural novel you won’t want to miss.
The Invisible Red String by Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah invites readers into a world where the ancient concept of an invisible red string intricately weaves love, fate, and healing together. This metaphorical bond connects people across time and space. The novel is uplifting and thought-provoking, delving into the spiritual and emotional journeys of characters whose lives become interconnected through unexpected circumstances. The story centers around John, a successful entrepreneur and devoted father to his son, Noah, who has Down Syndrome. His chance discovery of a mysterious notice promising “hidden treasure” leads him to Soul Haven, a therapy group facilitated by the empathetic Dr. Kathy Rodrigues. What initially seems like an ordinary group session transforms into a profound journey of self-discovery and connection. John, along with fellow group members Anna, Jake, and Lilly, uncovers deep emotional ties that transcend culture, race, and time.
Peter Berlin and Ann Zachariah masterfully craft vivid, multi-dimensional characters that are easy to empathize with, making their personal growth deeply inspiring. The book’s philosophical underpinnings, especially the idea of the red string connecting people beyond rational understanding, elevate it to a realm beyond conventional love stories. Each character brings a rich backstory, and their stories blend to form a narrative that’s as much about healing and redemption as it is about love. Through their interactions, the authors explore the depth of human relationships, the lingering effects of trauma, and the possibility of spiritual connections that guide us. The Invisible Red String is a cultural novel you won’t want to miss.
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The Fragility of Light
Heather Lonczak
2024 Bronze Medal
393 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
The Fragility of Light is a psychological thriller by Heather Lonczak. When Sunny was eight years old, her mother Gracie passed away, leaving her father Peter to raise her, and he enlisted the help of his parents. Sunny had a deep affection for her loving grandparents, Baba and Papa, who supported her. After meeting at San Diego State University, Joshua Fitzpatrick and Sylvia "Sunny" Zielinski married the summer following graduation. Sunny became annoyed with her wedding guests when they laughed at her being smeared with cake and threw cake at them. Sunny had a dream job as a book editor but, following heartbreaking deaths in the family, she had a breakdown at work one day. Sunny discovered she had a schizoaffective disorder and became aware of her mother's mental health issues.
The Fragility of Light by Heather Lonczak is a complex and emotional read. This dramatic page-turner hooked me, and it was hard to put down. Issues related to mental health, trauma, resilience, and the enduring strength of family ties were sensitively addressed. Sunny's, Joshua's, and Peter's points of view are shown throughout the chapters. Joshua wanted to understand Sunny's condition and help in her recovery even though he was unfamiliar with her mental health issues. Joshua, Peter, and his wife did everything possible to ensure Sunny had the best care possible. This story was excellently written and kept me on the edge of my seat. I learned that people can live with their mental condition if they have a solid support network.
The Fragility of Light is a psychological thriller by Heather Lonczak. When Sunny was eight years old, her mother Gracie passed away, leaving her father Peter to raise her, and he enlisted the help of his parents. Sunny had a deep affection for her loving grandparents, Baba and Papa, who supported her. After meeting at San Diego State University, Joshua Fitzpatrick and Sylvia "Sunny" Zielinski married the summer following graduation. Sunny became annoyed with her wedding guests when they laughed at her being smeared with cake and threw cake at them. Sunny had a dream job as a book editor but, following heartbreaking deaths in the family, she had a breakdown at work one day. Sunny discovered she had a schizoaffective disorder and became aware of her mother's mental health issues.
The Fragility of Light by Heather Lonczak is a complex and emotional read. This dramatic page-turner hooked me, and it was hard to put down. Issues related to mental health, trauma, resilience, and the enduring strength of family ties were sensitively addressed. Sunny's, Joshua's, and Peter's points of view are shown throughout the chapters. Joshua wanted to understand Sunny's condition and help in her recovery even though he was unfamiliar with her mental health issues. Joshua, Peter, and his wife did everything possible to ensure Sunny had the best care possible. This story was excellently written and kept me on the edge of my seat. I learned that people can live with their mental condition if they have a solid support network.
Recommend this book:
The Missing Puzzle Piece
A Dying Truth Exposed, Book Four
Marcus Abston
2024 Finalist
280 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Missing Puzzle Piece fits into the historical drama, suspense, and family saga subgenres and is the fourth novel in the Dying Truth Exposed series. The work is best suited for mature adult readers owing to some scenes of sex and violence. Penned by author Marcus Abston, this gripping continuation of the Lighting-Strongman family saga sees Annabelle's legacy take center stage. The family faces new challenges and unforeseen trials, particularly regarding the search for Annabelle's missing young son, Joseph. The story is set in a perilous era, and the family must weather separation, clinging to their faith and values. As Annabelle delves into her past, an impending storm of change draws closer. Little does she know that her past is catching up with her, with Joseph at its heart. The narrative introduces new friendships and sparks a rebellion that eventually leads to a stunning revelation.
Author Marcus Abston has crafted a story with an intricate psychological feel to it that expertly explores the emotional depths of this family's journey, their determination to reunite, and their pursuit of the truth. The descriptions, attitudes, and setting of the work bring together a convincing sense of the historical period, the central family drama that is logically and authentically related to these hard times, and the suspense of all their interpersonal histories, creating a riveting narrative that keeps readers engaged and eager to discover the family's secrets. Abston's storytelling is captivating, with a keen sense of character development and dramatic tension that leaves readers wanting more. I was particularly impressed by the dialogue, which moves the story on without huge amounts of chunky prose and balances itself perfectly between period authenticity and accessibility for modern readers. Overall, The Missing Puzzle Piece is a compelling addition to the existing series and a must-read for those who enjoy multi-generational family sagas with a blend of mystery and historical context.
The Missing Puzzle Piece fits into the historical drama, suspense, and family saga subgenres and is the fourth novel in the Dying Truth Exposed series. The work is best suited for mature adult readers owing to some scenes of sex and violence. Penned by author Marcus Abston, this gripping continuation of the Lighting-Strongman family saga sees Annabelle's legacy take center stage. The family faces new challenges and unforeseen trials, particularly regarding the search for Annabelle's missing young son, Joseph. The story is set in a perilous era, and the family must weather separation, clinging to their faith and values. As Annabelle delves into her past, an impending storm of change draws closer. Little does she know that her past is catching up with her, with Joseph at its heart. The narrative introduces new friendships and sparks a rebellion that eventually leads to a stunning revelation.
Author Marcus Abston has crafted a story with an intricate psychological feel to it that expertly explores the emotional depths of this family's journey, their determination to reunite, and their pursuit of the truth. The descriptions, attitudes, and setting of the work bring together a convincing sense of the historical period, the central family drama that is logically and authentically related to these hard times, and the suspense of all their interpersonal histories, creating a riveting narrative that keeps readers engaged and eager to discover the family's secrets. Abston's storytelling is captivating, with a keen sense of character development and dramatic tension that leaves readers wanting more. I was particularly impressed by the dialogue, which moves the story on without huge amounts of chunky prose and balances itself perfectly between period authenticity and accessibility for modern readers. Overall, The Missing Puzzle Piece is a compelling addition to the existing series and a must-read for those who enjoy multi-generational family sagas with a blend of mystery and historical context.
Recommend this book:
The Long Haul
Pursuit of Hope
Lena Gibson
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
It is 2195 and the world now consists of large tracts of bare land sparsely riddled with small towns, where only the fittest survive. GreenCorps, a farm products company owned by the McCoy family, has unscrupulously monopolized the food market, making food a rare luxury for thousands. Ever since her deadly encounter with a relative of the McCoys, Elsa has been living on the run. Elsa also has a secret that would free thousands from GreenCorps’ tyranny, which she plans to do soon. But then, with a hefty bounty on her head, can she and her small group of a rebel, a pickpocketer, an ex-rebel medic, and a train hopper outrun GreenCorps’ reach? On the other hand, Ginger, a McCoy, has dodged a marriage her father has arranged for her by hopping a train. All her life, Ginger has been kept prisoner behind the walls of her father’s mansion in Denver. Is she cut out for the wild world awaiting her outside Denver? Find out in Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope.
If you are looking for a dystopian novel with a post-apocalyptic touch, Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope is just what you should be looking for. Gibson hinges the intriguing plot on a compelling tale of love, betrayal, vengeance, deceit, survival, power, greed, sacrifices, regrets, oppression, drama, wit, thrill, adventure, and so much more. The evocative depictions had me feeling like I was next to every character, helplessly watching the scenes unfold. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and spell-binding plot twists had me hooked. I could not get enough of this character-driven tale. Gibson depicts the cast’s emotions well, juxtaposing their complex traits. This made the cast authentic, allowing me to connect with them. Although the second book in the Train Hoppers series, Pursuit of Hope is an independent read. I loved this ingeniously crafted piece of work.
It is 2195 and the world now consists of large tracts of bare land sparsely riddled with small towns, where only the fittest survive. GreenCorps, a farm products company owned by the McCoy family, has unscrupulously monopolized the food market, making food a rare luxury for thousands. Ever since her deadly encounter with a relative of the McCoys, Elsa has been living on the run. Elsa also has a secret that would free thousands from GreenCorps’ tyranny, which she plans to do soon. But then, with a hefty bounty on her head, can she and her small group of a rebel, a pickpocketer, an ex-rebel medic, and a train hopper outrun GreenCorps’ reach? On the other hand, Ginger, a McCoy, has dodged a marriage her father has arranged for her by hopping a train. All her life, Ginger has been kept prisoner behind the walls of her father’s mansion in Denver. Is she cut out for the wild world awaiting her outside Denver? Find out in Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope.
If you are looking for a dystopian novel with a post-apocalyptic touch, Lena Gibson’s The Long Haul: Pursuit of Hope is just what you should be looking for. Gibson hinges the intriguing plot on a compelling tale of love, betrayal, vengeance, deceit, survival, power, greed, sacrifices, regrets, oppression, drama, wit, thrill, adventure, and so much more. The evocative depictions had me feeling like I was next to every character, helplessly watching the scenes unfold. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and spell-binding plot twists had me hooked. I could not get enough of this character-driven tale. Gibson depicts the cast’s emotions well, juxtaposing their complex traits. This made the cast authentic, allowing me to connect with them. Although the second book in the Train Hoppers series, Pursuit of Hope is an independent read. I loved this ingeniously crafted piece of work.
Recommend this book:
The Monsters in our Shadows
Edward J Cembal
2024 Finalist
385 Pages
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
The Monsters in our Shadows by Edward J. Cembal is a dystopian tale that opens with a terrifying scene. In the walled city of Atlas, a man named Anthem pays a visit to a woman named Juliet Daniels, and he informs her that it is time. He is going to be her last visitor. She knows what is going to happen next as everyone does. This kind of visit has been Anthem’s way for as long as he can remember. Above the woman’s ceiling, a large, amorphous shadow with many teeth is waiting. Each person’s Shiver is slightly different, but they all consume their prey with precision. Anthem is tasked with trapping and banishing these creatures with their victims to the Deadlands. But Anthem knows that his own Shiver will get to him soon. To save everyone, he will have to travel to the unfriendly Deadlands and find a way to tame these creatures.
With its combination of evocative descriptions, a compelling storyline, and characters that do not necessarily embrace their fate, The Monsters in our Shadows is a work of fiction that blends perfectly with the horror it presents. Edward J. Cembal demonstrates a knack for taking a standard premise, giving it an original twist, and taking it up a notch to exceed genre expectations and capture the reader's attention. The job of an exilist has the visual and dramatic appeal that clearly illustrates the notion of humanity on the brink of extinction, and Cembal keeps it enthralling throughout. The book provides thrilling images ranging from a desolate landscape where a walled city is located to the hellish Deadlands, from which nobody has ever returned. This is dystopian fiction at its finest. Highly recommended.
The Monsters in our Shadows by Edward J. Cembal is a dystopian tale that opens with a terrifying scene. In the walled city of Atlas, a man named Anthem pays a visit to a woman named Juliet Daniels, and he informs her that it is time. He is going to be her last visitor. She knows what is going to happen next as everyone does. This kind of visit has been Anthem’s way for as long as he can remember. Above the woman’s ceiling, a large, amorphous shadow with many teeth is waiting. Each person’s Shiver is slightly different, but they all consume their prey with precision. Anthem is tasked with trapping and banishing these creatures with their victims to the Deadlands. But Anthem knows that his own Shiver will get to him soon. To save everyone, he will have to travel to the unfriendly Deadlands and find a way to tame these creatures.
With its combination of evocative descriptions, a compelling storyline, and characters that do not necessarily embrace their fate, The Monsters in our Shadows is a work of fiction that blends perfectly with the horror it presents. Edward J. Cembal demonstrates a knack for taking a standard premise, giving it an original twist, and taking it up a notch to exceed genre expectations and capture the reader's attention. The job of an exilist has the visual and dramatic appeal that clearly illustrates the notion of humanity on the brink of extinction, and Cembal keeps it enthralling throughout. The book provides thrilling images ranging from a desolate landscape where a walled city is located to the hellish Deadlands, from which nobody has ever returned. This is dystopian fiction at its finest. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Blackened Yonder
Planar Lost
J. Gibson
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Blackened Yonder is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, thriller, and horror subgenres, and it forms the opening novel in the Planar Lost series. The work is best suited to the adult reading audience. Penned by author J. Gibson, the story follows the intertwining paths of various characters grappling with a mysterious plague of Undeath sweeping across the land. From the priest Garron to the young Athenne and the clandestine group known as the Saints of Aetheria, each character navigates a world teetering on the brink of chaos. What results is an action-packed and exciting work of dark fantasy that leaves readers gasping and frantically turning pages to find out what happens next.
Author J. Gibson has crafted a work that is rich in worldbuilding, presenting a vivid and immersive fantasy setting filled with religion, magic, and political intrigue. I loved this author's dedication to crafting a fully realized world, which made it all the more realistic when you meet the central characters and see how their attitudes and actions are shaped by the culture and politics around them. Readers will be drawn into the well-paced mystery plot and the subtly-laid clues surrounding the undeath plague while also appreciating the complexity of the characters and their interwoven storylines. This all levels out to offer moments of tension, natural plot exposition in the dialogue, and strong plot twists that amp the action up at just the right moments. With a perfect balance of action, adventure, and character development, Gibson promises an engaging and thrilling read for fans of epic fantasy and darker fantasy stories alike. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Blackened Yonder as your next brilliant dark fantasy series to lose yourself in.
The Blackened Yonder is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, thriller, and horror subgenres, and it forms the opening novel in the Planar Lost series. The work is best suited to the adult reading audience. Penned by author J. Gibson, the story follows the intertwining paths of various characters grappling with a mysterious plague of Undeath sweeping across the land. From the priest Garron to the young Athenne and the clandestine group known as the Saints of Aetheria, each character navigates a world teetering on the brink of chaos. What results is an action-packed and exciting work of dark fantasy that leaves readers gasping and frantically turning pages to find out what happens next.
Author J. Gibson has crafted a work that is rich in worldbuilding, presenting a vivid and immersive fantasy setting filled with religion, magic, and political intrigue. I loved this author's dedication to crafting a fully realized world, which made it all the more realistic when you meet the central characters and see how their attitudes and actions are shaped by the culture and politics around them. Readers will be drawn into the well-paced mystery plot and the subtly-laid clues surrounding the undeath plague while also appreciating the complexity of the characters and their interwoven storylines. This all levels out to offer moments of tension, natural plot exposition in the dialogue, and strong plot twists that amp the action up at just the right moments. With a perfect balance of action, adventure, and character development, Gibson promises an engaging and thrilling read for fans of epic fantasy and darker fantasy stories alike. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Blackened Yonder as your next brilliant dark fantasy series to lose yourself in.
Recommend this book:
The Last Ranger
Ranger of the Titan Wilds, Book 1
J.D.L. Rosell
2024 Honorable Mention
464 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Last Ranger is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, explicit language, and some complex racial themes. Penned by author J.D.L. Rosell, we are introduced to Leiyn ‘Firebrand,’ a skilled ranger of the Titan Wilds, who faces betrayal and tragedy when her lodge is attacked. Vowing vengeance for her fallen comrades, Leiyn discovers an innate power within her, a force she must embrace to fulfill her duty. As she navigates a world threatened by colossal spirit creatures called titans, Leiyn's journey becomes an epic tale of resilience, magic, and the weight of duty. The story weaves themes of friendship, vengeance, and wonder, creating a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world.
Author J.D.L. Rosell has crafted an immersive experience into a world of magic and danger, with accomplished storytelling that brings Leiyn's character to life. The narrative is filled with detailed worldbuilding and atmospheric touches to set the emotional mood, and the pacing unfolds with a perfect blend of all-out action and quieter emotional scenes. The concept of titans and the mystical powers Leiyn possesses adds a lot of intrigue and unpredictability to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy, where familiar concepts are given a unique new twist. The inclusion of original illustrations by artist Félix Ortiz enhances the visual experience, providing a vivid and gorgeous portrayal of the characters and their adventures to awaken the imagination. Overall, this first book in the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series promises a thrilling journey for those who enjoy tales of rangers, magic, and the enduring spirit of heroes, and I would highly recommend The Last Ranger for epic fantasy fans everywhere.
The Last Ranger is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, explicit language, and some complex racial themes. Penned by author J.D.L. Rosell, we are introduced to Leiyn ‘Firebrand,’ a skilled ranger of the Titan Wilds, who faces betrayal and tragedy when her lodge is attacked. Vowing vengeance for her fallen comrades, Leiyn discovers an innate power within her, a force she must embrace to fulfill her duty. As she navigates a world threatened by colossal spirit creatures called titans, Leiyn's journey becomes an epic tale of resilience, magic, and the weight of duty. The story weaves themes of friendship, vengeance, and wonder, creating a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world.
Author J.D.L. Rosell has crafted an immersive experience into a world of magic and danger, with accomplished storytelling that brings Leiyn's character to life. The narrative is filled with detailed worldbuilding and atmospheric touches to set the emotional mood, and the pacing unfolds with a perfect blend of all-out action and quieter emotional scenes. The concept of titans and the mystical powers Leiyn possesses adds a lot of intrigue and unpredictability to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy, where familiar concepts are given a unique new twist. The inclusion of original illustrations by artist Félix Ortiz enhances the visual experience, providing a vivid and gorgeous portrayal of the characters and their adventures to awaken the imagination. Overall, this first book in the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series promises a thrilling journey for those who enjoy tales of rangers, magic, and the enduring spirit of heroes, and I would highly recommend The Last Ranger for epic fantasy fans everywhere.
Recommend this book:
The High Seer
Darkling Souls One
Alex Bree
2024 Finalist
564 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The High Seer is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, romance, and epic adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Darkling Souls series. The work is suitable for older teen and adult reading audiences. Penned by Alex Bree, this enchanting story follows High Seer Aurienne, who finds herself plagued by visions of an impending apocalyptic war. When blacksmith Theo saves her life, Aurienne sees his destiny to unite the continent's warring nations against the invaders. As they navigate assassination attempts and betrayal, Aurienne and Theo must rally allies and confront the corrupting magic threatening their world. Theo, driven by his love for Aurienne, assembles an army of rebels but faces the dilemma of whether to unleash dark forces to combat the conquering emperor and his army. The story explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy as the characters grapple with moral choices in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Author Alex Bree has crafted a stylish and atmospheric work that successfully brings together elements of fantasy and prophecy, creating a richly imagined setting filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas. The dynamic between Aurienne and Theo drives the narrative forward, their relationship evolving against the backdrop of impending doom with some stellar dialogue choices and attitudes that are authentically developed by their surroundings and different life experiences. The exploration of magic, power, and the consequences of wielding both challenges readers to question the nature of heroism, which turns the fantasy genre on its head to deliver something thought-provoking and original. I also absolutely fell in love with the settings and the vivid descriptive skill that Bree brings to the tale, offering a captivating experience and immersing me in a world where monsters are both saviors and threats. Overall, The High Seer is a compelling tale of adventure, love, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
The High Seer is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, romance, and epic adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Darkling Souls series. The work is suitable for older teen and adult reading audiences. Penned by Alex Bree, this enchanting story follows High Seer Aurienne, who finds herself plagued by visions of an impending apocalyptic war. When blacksmith Theo saves her life, Aurienne sees his destiny to unite the continent's warring nations against the invaders. As they navigate assassination attempts and betrayal, Aurienne and Theo must rally allies and confront the corrupting magic threatening their world. Theo, driven by his love for Aurienne, assembles an army of rebels but faces the dilemma of whether to unleash dark forces to combat the conquering emperor and his army. The story explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy as the characters grapple with moral choices in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Author Alex Bree has crafted a stylish and atmospheric work that successfully brings together elements of fantasy and prophecy, creating a richly imagined setting filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas. The dynamic between Aurienne and Theo drives the narrative forward, their relationship evolving against the backdrop of impending doom with some stellar dialogue choices and attitudes that are authentically developed by their surroundings and different life experiences. The exploration of magic, power, and the consequences of wielding both challenges readers to question the nature of heroism, which turns the fantasy genre on its head to deliver something thought-provoking and original. I also absolutely fell in love with the settings and the vivid descriptive skill that Bree brings to the tale, offering a captivating experience and immersing me in a world where monsters are both saviors and threats. Overall, The High Seer is a compelling tale of adventure, love, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
Recommend this book:
The Yawning Gap
Book One of The Wanderers Cycle
C.V. Vobh
2024 Honorable Mention
422 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Yawning Gap is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and forms the first novel of The Wanderers Cycle book series. It is best suited for mature teen and adult readers owing to the presence of moderate fantasy violence. In this fantastic opening to a powerful new fantasy series penned by author C.V. Vobh, we follow the exploits of Cor as he discovers a way to break past the invisible boundaries separating his small village from countless other locations in a ruined world. Aligning his mission with fellow wanderers able to join his quest, Cor will uncover the truth about the damage that this fragmentation is doing to the wider world.
Author C.V. Vobh has a fantastic central concept for this epic fantasy series which really holds the plot together and offers a superb blank canvas for our heroes to go out and explore with full abandon. This makes for exciting reading as you can never be sure what isolated corner of this blighted world they’ll uncover next, and I, for one, was impressed by the diverse descriptive work in building the atmosphere, culture, history, and ideas around so many different locales. The character development is fantastic, too, as Cor and his fellow wanderers are exposed to people and places unlike anything they know and begin to grow as people as a result. Overall, readers seeking an accomplished fantasy work with wonderful worldbuilding, great characters, and a fresh, unique plot will certainly enjoy The Yawning Gap, and I can’t wait to see what more this exciting series holds in the future.
The Yawning Gap is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and forms the first novel of The Wanderers Cycle book series. It is best suited for mature teen and adult readers owing to the presence of moderate fantasy violence. In this fantastic opening to a powerful new fantasy series penned by author C.V. Vobh, we follow the exploits of Cor as he discovers a way to break past the invisible boundaries separating his small village from countless other locations in a ruined world. Aligning his mission with fellow wanderers able to join his quest, Cor will uncover the truth about the damage that this fragmentation is doing to the wider world.
Author C.V. Vobh has a fantastic central concept for this epic fantasy series which really holds the plot together and offers a superb blank canvas for our heroes to go out and explore with full abandon. This makes for exciting reading as you can never be sure what isolated corner of this blighted world they’ll uncover next, and I, for one, was impressed by the diverse descriptive work in building the atmosphere, culture, history, and ideas around so many different locales. The character development is fantastic, too, as Cor and his fellow wanderers are exposed to people and places unlike anything they know and begin to grow as people as a result. Overall, readers seeking an accomplished fantasy work with wonderful worldbuilding, great characters, and a fresh, unique plot will certainly enjoy The Yawning Gap, and I can’t wait to see what more this exciting series holds in the future.
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