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The Borealis Queen
Henry Guard
2025 Silver Medal
395 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
The Borealis Queen is an epic action-adventure tale by Henry Guard. Set in primeval North America during the end of the Ice Age, the story follows Nin, a young woman whose life irrevocably changed the day warriors from the Lithic tribe razed her village, butchered her people, and took her captive. Nin somehow manages to escape the clutches of the Lithic and its ruthless leader, Gore. But now, she must survive the brutal terrain and the cold while navigating prehistoric predators. Soon, Nin makes a name for herself as the tamer of the legendary beasts known as the Shadows and an Urbarak pack follows her around. When the Thal tribe rebels against the tyrannical Shermat, Nin must lend them her strength and protect them from Shermat's rage and the Amagi storm.
The Borealis Queen might remind readers of the Mel Gibson-directed movie Apocalypto. Like the Hollywood hit, this book is an action-packed survival/adventure story with fantastical elements underlining the narrative. Henry Guard has woven a gripping yarn full of action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. The author drops the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go, and it's a non-stop thrill ride from there. The plot is fast-paced, and each chapter brings a new set of surprises that will have you biting your nails in anticipation of what comes next. Nin is a likable protagonist. Her bonds with various animals make her easy to root for as she battles overwhelming odds to survive and protect those she cares about. Her character development throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. I highly recommend this novel to action-adventure lovers.
The Borealis Queen is an epic action-adventure tale by Henry Guard. Set in primeval North America during the end of the Ice Age, the story follows Nin, a young woman whose life irrevocably changed the day warriors from the Lithic tribe razed her village, butchered her people, and took her captive. Nin somehow manages to escape the clutches of the Lithic and its ruthless leader, Gore. But now, she must survive the brutal terrain and the cold while navigating prehistoric predators. Soon, Nin makes a name for herself as the tamer of the legendary beasts known as the Shadows and an Urbarak pack follows her around. When the Thal tribe rebels against the tyrannical Shermat, Nin must lend them her strength and protect them from Shermat's rage and the Amagi storm.
The Borealis Queen might remind readers of the Mel Gibson-directed movie Apocalypto. Like the Hollywood hit, this book is an action-packed survival/adventure story with fantastical elements underlining the narrative. Henry Guard has woven a gripping yarn full of action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. The author drops the reader into the midst of the action from the get-go, and it's a non-stop thrill ride from there. The plot is fast-paced, and each chapter brings a new set of surprises that will have you biting your nails in anticipation of what comes next. Nin is a likable protagonist. Her bonds with various animals make her easy to root for as she battles overwhelming odds to survive and protect those she cares about. Her character development throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. I highly recommend this novel to action-adventure lovers.
Recommend this book:
Whispers in the Forest
The Unforgettable Tales of Adeline Bigsby
Elizabeth Mowery
2025 Bronze Medal
248 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
Recommend this book:
The Pandora's Box
Conjurer's Prophecy
L.S. Franco
2025 Honorable Mention
272 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
Recommend this book:
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver
D. Wallace Peach
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver by D. Wallace Peach follows the alluring adventures of Erith, a woman of both human and fae origin. Erith is the new Seasons' Weaver, having assumed the role from her charmed mother, Dania. Even though Erith lacks confidence in her new position, her courage and compassion shine through. Unforeseen danger looms over both the human and charmed world. Human hunters have been found guilty of desecrating the forests. In retribution, the Winter King abducts Erith and attempts to force her to weave an eternal winter. He intends to destroy every mortal soul until there is none left. Charmed beings who rely on spring for survival will also become collateral damage if the Winter King gets his way. Join Erith and her companions on this riveting journey to save their world from icy destruction. Will their tale be one of victory or defeat?
D. Wallace Peach is skilled in crafting a compelling story designed to grab the reader's attention and draw them in. Her novel touches on themes like the beauty of life, friendship, self-discovery, character growth, and resilience. Peach intricately weaves each scene, making the reader feel like another active contributor in this exciting journey. I enjoyed watching Erith's character gradually transform from one of uncertainty to one of boldness. Her inner growth is exceptional as she slowly learns to appreciate her supernatural abilities and forge close associations with the characters who aid her on her quest. The setting in this enthralling world is vibrant and vividly portrayed. Readers will be fully immersed in the human and charmed worlds with their unique capabilities and customs. I recommend Tale of the Seasons' Weaver to fantasy lovers, far and wide. The storyline will grab you and leave you wanting more.
Tale of the Seasons' Weaver by D. Wallace Peach follows the alluring adventures of Erith, a woman of both human and fae origin. Erith is the new Seasons' Weaver, having assumed the role from her charmed mother, Dania. Even though Erith lacks confidence in her new position, her courage and compassion shine through. Unforeseen danger looms over both the human and charmed world. Human hunters have been found guilty of desecrating the forests. In retribution, the Winter King abducts Erith and attempts to force her to weave an eternal winter. He intends to destroy every mortal soul until there is none left. Charmed beings who rely on spring for survival will also become collateral damage if the Winter King gets his way. Join Erith and her companions on this riveting journey to save their world from icy destruction. Will their tale be one of victory or defeat?
D. Wallace Peach is skilled in crafting a compelling story designed to grab the reader's attention and draw them in. Her novel touches on themes like the beauty of life, friendship, self-discovery, character growth, and resilience. Peach intricately weaves each scene, making the reader feel like another active contributor in this exciting journey. I enjoyed watching Erith's character gradually transform from one of uncertainty to one of boldness. Her inner growth is exceptional as she slowly learns to appreciate her supernatural abilities and forge close associations with the characters who aid her on her quest. The setting in this enthralling world is vibrant and vividly portrayed. Readers will be fully immersed in the human and charmed worlds with their unique capabilities and customs. I recommend Tale of the Seasons' Weaver to fantasy lovers, far and wide. The storyline will grab you and leave you wanting more.
Recommend this book:
Thaddeus and the Daemon
Louis Sauvain
2025 Honorable Mention
480 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Thaddeus and the Daemon by Louis Sauvain is the third book in the College of Sorcerers series. This well-crafted fantasy presents a setting where worlds intersect through mystical portals, ancient prophecies, and powerful sorcery. The story follows Thaddeus, a young apprentice at the Collegium Sorcerorum, who finds himself at the heart of a conflict that can destroy their world. Lives are at risk as Perditus gathers a goblin army to attack the school, and despite Thaddeus’s efforts to rally allies, time is running out. The traitorous Master unleashes the Daemon Morag to cast a devastating Stone Spell, while Thaddeus is captured and chained, forced to witness the Infernales being summoned to destroy everyone inside. He might be the only one who can save the school, and the cost will be very high. Do he and his unlikely allies have any chance?
I found Thaddeus and the Daemon to be a very imaginative tale that will appeal to fans of epic fantasies, such as the Harry Potter series. The characters are well-written, and I enjoyed the way Thaddeus is portrayed. He is a hero who, despite his flaws and self-doubt, embodies the qualities of a hero. His courage grows with each step he takes. His companions, like the Eagle daemon named Osiric, a goblin housekeeper named Lilyput, and others, are well-developed, too. Louis Sauvain explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the tension between knowledge and belief. The central theme is the struggle of good vs evil; in this narrative, the odds are stacked against the good side. The setting spans diverse landscapes—from a mystical college to desolate vineyards, secret caves, and coastal villages—each contributing to the atmosphere of wonder and danger. I enjoyed the crisp writing and was pulled in by the author’s superior storytelling, the impeccable characterization, and expert thematic development.
Thaddeus and the Daemon by Louis Sauvain is the third book in the College of Sorcerers series. This well-crafted fantasy presents a setting where worlds intersect through mystical portals, ancient prophecies, and powerful sorcery. The story follows Thaddeus, a young apprentice at the Collegium Sorcerorum, who finds himself at the heart of a conflict that can destroy their world. Lives are at risk as Perditus gathers a goblin army to attack the school, and despite Thaddeus’s efforts to rally allies, time is running out. The traitorous Master unleashes the Daemon Morag to cast a devastating Stone Spell, while Thaddeus is captured and chained, forced to witness the Infernales being summoned to destroy everyone inside. He might be the only one who can save the school, and the cost will be very high. Do he and his unlikely allies have any chance?
I found Thaddeus and the Daemon to be a very imaginative tale that will appeal to fans of epic fantasies, such as the Harry Potter series. The characters are well-written, and I enjoyed the way Thaddeus is portrayed. He is a hero who, despite his flaws and self-doubt, embodies the qualities of a hero. His courage grows with each step he takes. His companions, like the Eagle daemon named Osiric, a goblin housekeeper named Lilyput, and others, are well-developed, too. Louis Sauvain explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the tension between knowledge and belief. The central theme is the struggle of good vs evil; in this narrative, the odds are stacked against the good side. The setting spans diverse landscapes—from a mystical college to desolate vineyards, secret caves, and coastal villages—each contributing to the atmosphere of wonder and danger. I enjoyed the crisp writing and was pulled in by the author’s superior storytelling, the impeccable characterization, and expert thematic development.
Recommend this book:
 by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, ...){kind=link}
The Other Battle
Passage to Dawn
Derrick Smythe
2025 Honorable Mention
552 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, and that raises the stakes as betrayals and unforeseen alliances emerge. Our heroes have to confront their pasts and make impossible choices that will echo through generations. The Other Battle expands upon the intricate world-building and moral complexities of its predecessors, offering readers an exhilarating, character-driven adventure filled with magic, sacrifice, and high-stakes battles that will keep them pages turning well into the night.
Author Derrick Smythe crafts an immersive fantasy realm with intricate world-building that I dived into eagerly and was sorry to have to leave. It's an expansive setting filled with unique cultures, magic systems, and political landscapes, but his storytelling balances the bigger battles of the world with personal and emotional stories. There's also a diverse cast of characters which is refreshing to see, and they are written relatably, even against the fantasy foes they're facing. I found myself especially drawn to the moral dilemmas presented throughout the narrative, which add significant depth and elevate the story beyond a traditional good-versus-evil tale into something more nuanced and thought-provoking. Smythe has a knack for crafting breathtaking action sequences while keeping the emotional core strong and capturing both the chaos of battle and the quiet moments of character growth. Overall, The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) is a fantastic fantasy read that I highly recommend.
The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) by Derrick Smythe is the third installment of this epic fantasy series. The world is on the brink of war as ancient evils resurface and heroes struggle to band together. Kibure and Sindri search for allies while the Lugienese Empire's power grows and threatens the entire land. Other enemies seek mythical weapons, and that raises the stakes as betrayals and unforeseen alliances emerge. Our heroes have to confront their pasts and make impossible choices that will echo through generations. The Other Battle expands upon the intricate world-building and moral complexities of its predecessors, offering readers an exhilarating, character-driven adventure filled with magic, sacrifice, and high-stakes battles that will keep them pages turning well into the night.
Author Derrick Smythe crafts an immersive fantasy realm with intricate world-building that I dived into eagerly and was sorry to have to leave. It's an expansive setting filled with unique cultures, magic systems, and political landscapes, but his storytelling balances the bigger battles of the world with personal and emotional stories. There's also a diverse cast of characters which is refreshing to see, and they are written relatably, even against the fantasy foes they're facing. I found myself especially drawn to the moral dilemmas presented throughout the narrative, which add significant depth and elevate the story beyond a traditional good-versus-evil tale into something more nuanced and thought-provoking. Smythe has a knack for crafting breathtaking action sequences while keeping the emotional core strong and capturing both the chaos of battle and the quiet moments of character growth. Overall, The Other Battle (Passage to Dawn) is a fantastic fantasy read that I highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
The Storyteller From Balincia
Book One of the Driftstone Series
S.W. Kent
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Storyteller From Balincia by S.W. Kent is an exciting fantasy that follows Birk, a young storyteller who stumbles upon a magic book that changes everything. Suddenly, he's discovering secrets about his home and his future that he never imagined. With his friends by his side, he faces old prophecies, powerful enemies, and forces he doesn’t fully understand. Kent builds a world bursting with life, where ideas about identity, legacy, and doing the right thing come through in the details—whether it's the customs, the landscapes, or the magic itself. The book blends classic fantasy elements with fresh, modern ideas, creating a story that feels timeless.
Author S.W. Kent's story world feels both new and familiar. I really liked how the different characters felt natural in the story instead of forced. The writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making it perfect for younger readers. The different cultures and perspectives make the world feel layered and real, like stepping into a place that actually exists. The story touches on identity and belonging, but it never feels heavy—it’s an adventure first, the kind that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next. What I found special was how Kent gives each character a journey that matters, making sure their struggles and choices feel personal but still tied to the bigger picture of change and resistance. The way he highlights the power of storytelling also makes you think about the stories we tell ourselves and the ones we pass on. Overall, The Storyteller From Balincia is a must-read for anyone who wants a fantasy adventure that tries new things while keeping what's best about fantasy stories.
The Storyteller From Balincia by S.W. Kent is an exciting fantasy that follows Birk, a young storyteller who stumbles upon a magic book that changes everything. Suddenly, he's discovering secrets about his home and his future that he never imagined. With his friends by his side, he faces old prophecies, powerful enemies, and forces he doesn’t fully understand. Kent builds a world bursting with life, where ideas about identity, legacy, and doing the right thing come through in the details—whether it's the customs, the landscapes, or the magic itself. The book blends classic fantasy elements with fresh, modern ideas, creating a story that feels timeless.
Author S.W. Kent's story world feels both new and familiar. I really liked how the different characters felt natural in the story instead of forced. The writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making it perfect for younger readers. The different cultures and perspectives make the world feel layered and real, like stepping into a place that actually exists. The story touches on identity and belonging, but it never feels heavy—it’s an adventure first, the kind that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next. What I found special was how Kent gives each character a journey that matters, making sure their struggles and choices feel personal but still tied to the bigger picture of change and resistance. The way he highlights the power of storytelling also makes you think about the stories we tell ourselves and the ones we pass on. Overall, The Storyteller From Balincia is a must-read for anyone who wants a fantasy adventure that tries new things while keeping what's best about fantasy stories.
Recommend this book:
Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change
Angela Legh
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change by Angela Legh is a delightful middle-grade coming-of-age fantasy novella. Bella Santini is a fourteen-year-old, ordinary-looking girl living an ordinary life. She wants to spend the summer inside, painting all day, yet her parents dragged her with them on a family trip into the wilderness. One night, while camping, a strange sound awakens her. Captivated by a firefly, she follows it until she steps into a place filled with dancing lights. However, looking closely, Bella notices they are fairies, not fireflies. Little does she know, as a human child, that entering the Fae world will set a series of remarkable and unprecedented events in motion. While powerful and evil forces are at work in the fairy kingdom that want to seize power and bring in a new order, Bella learns more about herself, her inner strength, and that she is capable of extraordinary, magical things.
Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change by Angela Legh is a must-have for young readers, offering them an engaging, highly educational, and empowering read. It contains beautiful illustrations and fantasy elements like an alternate world, magic, fairies, a gargoyle, and trolls, and themes of sibling rivalry, bullying, control, bigotry, friendship, and good vs. evil. Through this story and its tools, children can learn to process their feelings and emotions, the importance of never doubting themselves, never letting go of the magic within them, and never judging others based on appearance, as there's always more to them than what is on the surface. I highly recommend this middle-grade fantasy to parents as well.
Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change by Angela Legh is a delightful middle-grade coming-of-age fantasy novella. Bella Santini is a fourteen-year-old, ordinary-looking girl living an ordinary life. She wants to spend the summer inside, painting all day, yet her parents dragged her with them on a family trip into the wilderness. One night, while camping, a strange sound awakens her. Captivated by a firefly, she follows it until she steps into a place filled with dancing lights. However, looking closely, Bella notices they are fairies, not fireflies. Little does she know, as a human child, that entering the Fae world will set a series of remarkable and unprecedented events in motion. While powerful and evil forces are at work in the fairy kingdom that want to seize power and bring in a new order, Bella learns more about herself, her inner strength, and that she is capable of extraordinary, magical things.
Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change by Angela Legh is a must-have for young readers, offering them an engaging, highly educational, and empowering read. It contains beautiful illustrations and fantasy elements like an alternate world, magic, fairies, a gargoyle, and trolls, and themes of sibling rivalry, bullying, control, bigotry, friendship, and good vs. evil. Through this story and its tools, children can learn to process their feelings and emotions, the importance of never doubting themselves, never letting go of the magic within them, and never judging others based on appearance, as there's always more to them than what is on the surface. I highly recommend this middle-grade fantasy to parents as well.
Recommend this book:
The Dream Traveller
Dark Rising
John Nassari
2025 Finalist
570 Pages
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Young Adult - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Dream Traveller: Dark Rising is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, and action genres. Penned by author John Nassari, the plot follows Girvyn, a young man unaware of his unique ability to enter people's dreams as a Dream Traveller. His destiny takes a drastic turn when he becomes entangled with a forest tribe plagued by demons, led by the rogue Dream Traveller, Crane. As Girvyn navigates his newfound powers, he must confront the looming threat of Crane's plan to merge the nightmarish realm with the waking world, while allies and adversaries alike vie for his role in the impending battle between dreams and reality.
Author John Nassari crafts a thrilling journey into a world where the boundaries between dreams and reality blur beautifully. Nassari's intricate world-building is evident from the very first page. I was deeply invested in the atmospheric language and ethereal quality in the narration that always makes it feel like you’re walking a fine line between a pleasant dream and a sudden, dark nightmare. This rich storytelling also extends into the plot structure, which is packed with suspense to immerse readers in a realm where danger lurks at every turn of the page. The dynamic characters are authentically shaped by this world and there’s a lot of care put into their dialogue and attitudes to show the differences between them, especially our naïve young hero. The pace had me eagerly turning the pages to discover Girvyn's fate and the fate of the world beyond him. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Dream Traveller: Dark Rising to fans of dark fantasy adventures everywhere for their next thrilling read, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
The Dream Traveller: Dark Rising is a work of fiction in the dark fantasy, adventure, and action genres. Penned by author John Nassari, the plot follows Girvyn, a young man unaware of his unique ability to enter people's dreams as a Dream Traveller. His destiny takes a drastic turn when he becomes entangled with a forest tribe plagued by demons, led by the rogue Dream Traveller, Crane. As Girvyn navigates his newfound powers, he must confront the looming threat of Crane's plan to merge the nightmarish realm with the waking world, while allies and adversaries alike vie for his role in the impending battle between dreams and reality.
Author John Nassari crafts a thrilling journey into a world where the boundaries between dreams and reality blur beautifully. Nassari's intricate world-building is evident from the very first page. I was deeply invested in the atmospheric language and ethereal quality in the narration that always makes it feel like you’re walking a fine line between a pleasant dream and a sudden, dark nightmare. This rich storytelling also extends into the plot structure, which is packed with suspense to immerse readers in a realm where danger lurks at every turn of the page. The dynamic characters are authentically shaped by this world and there’s a lot of care put into their dialogue and attitudes to show the differences between them, especially our naïve young hero. The pace had me eagerly turning the pages to discover Girvyn's fate and the fate of the world beyond him. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Dream Traveller: Dark Rising to fans of dark fantasy adventures everywhere for their next thrilling read, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
Recommend this book:
The Debilis Rising
Keepers of the Rock
E. K. Wise
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
The Debilis Rising is the first book in E. K. Wise's Keepers of the Rock series. Tessa Horton and Tú Chen are gifted kids who crave more in life, and when they are welcomed at the College of Geological Evolution, everything changes for them. This school is run by an ancient, shadowy organization known as the Keepers of the Rock, and the college trains future protectors of the Earth from deadly creatures and forces targeting humanity. The friendship between Tessa and Tú grows stronger as they understand the mysterious nature of their mission. But a potent threat looms ahead: the rise of the ancient evil Debilis, a dark force intent on destroying humanity. Can the keepers muster enough strength to stop the evil?
The Debilis Rising by E.K. Wise takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a richly woven narrative brimming with intrigue, magic, and conflict. Set across multiple contrasting locations, including Bangkok, Macau, and Carlsbad Caverns, the novel introduces characters like Rua-Jian Chu, a complex antihero with a shadowy past, and the Keepers, a secret society tasked with nominating and training extraordinary youths with the potential to safeguard the world. The dichotomy of intention—safeguarding vs. exploiting—is skillfully explored in this thrilling fantasy and fuels the question of what it means to wield knowledge responsibly. The detailed settings, from the grimy streets of Bangkok to the ancient, echoing formations of Carlsbad Caverns, resonate with readers, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil. The prose is exceptional, and the narrative is packed with action and conflict that grows at multiple levels. I enjoyed the characters, the expertly handled conflict, and the finely drawn settings.
The Debilis Rising is the first book in E. K. Wise's Keepers of the Rock series. Tessa Horton and Tú Chen are gifted kids who crave more in life, and when they are welcomed at the College of Geological Evolution, everything changes for them. This school is run by an ancient, shadowy organization known as the Keepers of the Rock, and the college trains future protectors of the Earth from deadly creatures and forces targeting humanity. The friendship between Tessa and Tú grows stronger as they understand the mysterious nature of their mission. But a potent threat looms ahead: the rise of the ancient evil Debilis, a dark force intent on destroying humanity. Can the keepers muster enough strength to stop the evil?
The Debilis Rising by E.K. Wise takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a richly woven narrative brimming with intrigue, magic, and conflict. Set across multiple contrasting locations, including Bangkok, Macau, and Carlsbad Caverns, the novel introduces characters like Rua-Jian Chu, a complex antihero with a shadowy past, and the Keepers, a secret society tasked with nominating and training extraordinary youths with the potential to safeguard the world. The dichotomy of intention—safeguarding vs. exploiting—is skillfully explored in this thrilling fantasy and fuels the question of what it means to wield knowledge responsibly. The detailed settings, from the grimy streets of Bangkok to the ancient, echoing formations of Carlsbad Caverns, resonate with readers, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil. The prose is exceptional, and the narrative is packed with action and conflict that grows at multiple levels. I enjoyed the characters, the expertly handled conflict, and the finely drawn settings.
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