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The Gift
Vintage Vines Series Book 1
C. D'Angelo
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Chick Lit
Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
The Gift by C. D’Angelo is a story of finding one’s destiny and drawing strength and support from loved ones. Since childhood, Toni Agosti had dreamed of joining the LA Philharmonic as a cellist. However, while attending a family wedding in Italy, Toni discovers that one of her ancestors had owned a vineyard in Los Angeles. This discovery ignites a passion in Toni to learn more about her heritage and a feeling that her true calling is in winemaking. The decision creates a conflict with her husband Christian, especially after she discovers she might have a chance of joining the prestigious orchestra. Christian’s true character is revealed, leaving Toni questioning everything she knows about him. Will Toni have the courage to make the right decision for herself, no matter the cost? And how will her family react to a decision that will redefine her life personally and professionally?
At the heart of The Gift: Vintage Vines Series Book 1, C. D’Angelo’s story is about having the courage and resilience to follow one’s dreams and passion. It felt like the universe was aligning to guide Toni toward her true calling, yet testing her resolve with every step she took. Each of the characters in the story had a significant role in Toni’s growth, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of herself. I related to Toni’s struggles as she grappled with balancing her aspirations with the expectations of others. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy narratives infused with cultural and artistic elements, and those interested in the history of winegrowing in the Los Angeles region.
The Gift by C. D’Angelo is a story of finding one’s destiny and drawing strength and support from loved ones. Since childhood, Toni Agosti had dreamed of joining the LA Philharmonic as a cellist. However, while attending a family wedding in Italy, Toni discovers that one of her ancestors had owned a vineyard in Los Angeles. This discovery ignites a passion in Toni to learn more about her heritage and a feeling that her true calling is in winemaking. The decision creates a conflict with her husband Christian, especially after she discovers she might have a chance of joining the prestigious orchestra. Christian’s true character is revealed, leaving Toni questioning everything she knows about him. Will Toni have the courage to make the right decision for herself, no matter the cost? And how will her family react to a decision that will redefine her life personally and professionally?
At the heart of The Gift: Vintage Vines Series Book 1, C. D’Angelo’s story is about having the courage and resilience to follow one’s dreams and passion. It felt like the universe was aligning to guide Toni toward her true calling, yet testing her resolve with every step she took. Each of the characters in the story had a significant role in Toni’s growth, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of herself. I related to Toni’s struggles as she grappled with balancing her aspirations with the expectations of others. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy narratives infused with cultural and artistic elements, and those interested in the history of winegrowing in the Los Angeles region.
Recommend this book:
The Olive Grove
A Palestinian Story
Deborah Rohan
2025 Honorable Mention
420 Pages
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Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Olive Grove by Deborah Rohan is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of one Palestinian family’s journey through love, loss, and displacement across the twentieth century. Hamzi Moghrabi is a young boy growing up in the coastal city of Akka in 1913, whose life is soon shaped by the cascading effects of colonial rule, global war, and growing political strife. As the family’s once-thriving community is fractured by conflict and they are forced into exile, their ancestral olive groves become both a memory and a symbol of resilience. Spanning generations, this novel chronicles the enduring strength of a family determined to preserve their identity and history against overwhelming odds.
Author Deborah Rohan has an innate sense of character, and that comes through in every descriptive moment and the powerful dialogue and narration aspects of the story. What makes this book so powerful is its deeply personal lens focused on a history too often told through politics alone. Rohan brings the story to life with sensory detail and emotional nuance, portraying Hamzi and his descendants not just as survivors but as keepers of memory, love, and land. The novel is grounded in real testimonies, which lends an authenticity that feels both intimate and sweeping. It is a story of dignity, family, and home, written with quiet compassion and lasting impact. Overall, The Olive Grove is a moving and necessary novel that honors the human stories behind history’s headlines, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves stories of cultural roots and long-spanning personal histories.
The Olive Grove by Deborah Rohan is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of one Palestinian family’s journey through love, loss, and displacement across the twentieth century. Hamzi Moghrabi is a young boy growing up in the coastal city of Akka in 1913, whose life is soon shaped by the cascading effects of colonial rule, global war, and growing political strife. As the family’s once-thriving community is fractured by conflict and they are forced into exile, their ancestral olive groves become both a memory and a symbol of resilience. Spanning generations, this novel chronicles the enduring strength of a family determined to preserve their identity and history against overwhelming odds.
Author Deborah Rohan has an innate sense of character, and that comes through in every descriptive moment and the powerful dialogue and narration aspects of the story. What makes this book so powerful is its deeply personal lens focused on a history too often told through politics alone. Rohan brings the story to life with sensory detail and emotional nuance, portraying Hamzi and his descendants not just as survivors but as keepers of memory, love, and land. The novel is grounded in real testimonies, which lends an authenticity that feels both intimate and sweeping. It is a story of dignity, family, and home, written with quiet compassion and lasting impact. Overall, The Olive Grove is a moving and necessary novel that honors the human stories behind history’s headlines, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves stories of cultural roots and long-spanning personal histories.
Recommend this book:
The Guardian
Alison Tracy
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Guardian by Alison Tracy is a haunting dystopian tale that follows fourteen-year-old Iliya Rusul, who finds herself thrust into the role of a prophet in a world dominated by corporate powers and an enigmatic deity. As she starts performing miracles, she quickly realizes that each one comes at a terrible personal cost, draining her life force bit by bit. That puts her in an impossible position—does she follow what seems to be a divine plan, or does she fight back and try to take control of her destiny? Tracy tells a gripping story that doesn’t just focus on themes of faith and power but also what it truly means to resist when the price might be everything you have.
Author Alison Tracy's masterful world-building immediately drew me into this corporate dystopian tale, creating an atmosphere that feels unnervingly close to our own reality. Iliya’s journey, in particular, really stood out to me—she’s still just a kid, but she’s forced to deal with choices that would be overwhelming for anyone. The way the story handles faith is thought-provoking, pushing me to reconsider ideas about belief, destiny, and whether we actually have free will. There’s a strong contrast between hope and despair throughout, and Tracy’s writing captures both beautifully—sometimes lyrical, sometimes brutally direct. What I love most is how she takes well-known dystopian themes and makes them feel fresh by focusing on the deeply personal side of resistance and choice. Overall, I highly recommend The Guardian to readers who appreciate dystopian fiction that goes beyond surface-level entertainment to ask questions that make you think.
The Guardian by Alison Tracy is a haunting dystopian tale that follows fourteen-year-old Iliya Rusul, who finds herself thrust into the role of a prophet in a world dominated by corporate powers and an enigmatic deity. As she starts performing miracles, she quickly realizes that each one comes at a terrible personal cost, draining her life force bit by bit. That puts her in an impossible position—does she follow what seems to be a divine plan, or does she fight back and try to take control of her destiny? Tracy tells a gripping story that doesn’t just focus on themes of faith and power but also what it truly means to resist when the price might be everything you have.
Author Alison Tracy's masterful world-building immediately drew me into this corporate dystopian tale, creating an atmosphere that feels unnervingly close to our own reality. Iliya’s journey, in particular, really stood out to me—she’s still just a kid, but she’s forced to deal with choices that would be overwhelming for anyone. The way the story handles faith is thought-provoking, pushing me to reconsider ideas about belief, destiny, and whether we actually have free will. There’s a strong contrast between hope and despair throughout, and Tracy’s writing captures both beautifully—sometimes lyrical, sometimes brutally direct. What I love most is how she takes well-known dystopian themes and makes them feel fresh by focusing on the deeply personal side of resistance and choice. Overall, I highly recommend The Guardian to readers who appreciate dystopian fiction that goes beyond surface-level entertainment to ask questions that make you think.
Recommend this book:
Burn the Freeze
A Sci Fi Adventure in the Mind
S.M. McVicar
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Dystopia
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar, Cal Shook navigates a dystopian world where the elite access universal information through advanced brain technology. After evading capture in Reno and securing a substantial reward, Cal is hired to steal the powerful X-2 headset, which enables control over local and nonlocal intelligence. Despite danger and betrayal, Cal collaborates to use the X-2, which allows transitions through realities, for financial insights and societal change. Teaming up with Maria Vargas, Dr. Ramona Cooly, and Jett Koyamatsu, Cal faces constant danger, betrayal, and psychological turmoil. Their mission is to use the headset to disrupt the control of the ruling billionaires and aid marginalized populations. Despite massive losses and peril, Cal remains determined to confront systemic corruption and effect societal change by any means possible.
“How am I going to die? I’d love to know what you can tell me about that since it seems like a lot of people seem to know more about my future than I do.” S.M. McVicar delivers a high-stakes cyberpunk style of fiction in Burn the Freeze, with all its best bells and whistles: a dystopian setting, high-tech/low-life disparity, corporate control, privatization, a fight against oppression, and mind and reality manipulation. I'm a classic lover of virtual reality world fiction, but have found that works like this one elevate the old style for contemporary readers. Cal is making money while fighting the good fight, but his character goes a long way in balancing the duality. McVicar's advanced technology, the X-2, exists as a reality-bending, sophisticated technology while the masses are living in squalor due to the Freeze Act. The writing is clean and fast-paced, the characters are fully fleshed out, and this is easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.
In Burn the Freeze by S.M. McVicar, Cal Shook navigates a dystopian world where the elite access universal information through advanced brain technology. After evading capture in Reno and securing a substantial reward, Cal is hired to steal the powerful X-2 headset, which enables control over local and nonlocal intelligence. Despite danger and betrayal, Cal collaborates to use the X-2, which allows transitions through realities, for financial insights and societal change. Teaming up with Maria Vargas, Dr. Ramona Cooly, and Jett Koyamatsu, Cal faces constant danger, betrayal, and psychological turmoil. Their mission is to use the headset to disrupt the control of the ruling billionaires and aid marginalized populations. Despite massive losses and peril, Cal remains determined to confront systemic corruption and effect societal change by any means possible.
“How am I going to die? I’d love to know what you can tell me about that since it seems like a lot of people seem to know more about my future than I do.” S.M. McVicar delivers a high-stakes cyberpunk style of fiction in Burn the Freeze, with all its best bells and whistles: a dystopian setting, high-tech/low-life disparity, corporate control, privatization, a fight against oppression, and mind and reality manipulation. I'm a classic lover of virtual reality world fiction, but have found that works like this one elevate the old style for contemporary readers. Cal is making money while fighting the good fight, but his character goes a long way in balancing the duality. McVicar's advanced technology, the X-2, exists as a reality-bending, sophisticated technology while the masses are living in squalor due to the Freeze Act. The writing is clean and fast-paced, the characters are fully fleshed out, and this is easily one of the most exciting books I've read this year.
Recommend this book:
Sword of the Fallen
G J Ogden
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sword of the Fallen by G J Ogden is an action-packed fantasy where humans and dragons are barely holding onto peace, and Sir Torin Cadwell, the illegitimate son of a ruthless king, is caught up in something much bigger than himself. When the ancient dragon Kyhrax sets out for revenge and a powerful relic goes missing from Dun Morlaig, Torin is thrown into a dangerous mission to stop the kingdom from falling apart. The story is full of political drama, tough choices, and the ever-present tension between humans and dragons, all set in a richly detailed world where past betrayals still cast a long shadow.
G J Ogden knows how to mix classic fantasy with strong characters, making this world come alive and the stakes feel real. The way he builds up the dragon lore is fresh and exciting compared to similar stories, and Torin’s inner struggles make him an easy character to root for as the danger ramps up. He’s not a perfect hero at all, but his flaws and vulnerabilities make his journey even more gripping. The battles are fast-paced and intense, but what really stands out is how they also carry emotional weight so readers feel like they have a personal stake in them. Themes of redemption and destiny play a large role but never feel overdone or predictable. What I loved most was how even the quiet moments had meaning, making the whole story feel grand and personal at the same time. Overall, Sword of the Fallen is a must-read for fantasy fans who love great characters and thrilling adventures and I definitely recommend it.
Sword of the Fallen by G J Ogden is an action-packed fantasy where humans and dragons are barely holding onto peace, and Sir Torin Cadwell, the illegitimate son of a ruthless king, is caught up in something much bigger than himself. When the ancient dragon Kyhrax sets out for revenge and a powerful relic goes missing from Dun Morlaig, Torin is thrown into a dangerous mission to stop the kingdom from falling apart. The story is full of political drama, tough choices, and the ever-present tension between humans and dragons, all set in a richly detailed world where past betrayals still cast a long shadow.
G J Ogden knows how to mix classic fantasy with strong characters, making this world come alive and the stakes feel real. The way he builds up the dragon lore is fresh and exciting compared to similar stories, and Torin’s inner struggles make him an easy character to root for as the danger ramps up. He’s not a perfect hero at all, but his flaws and vulnerabilities make his journey even more gripping. The battles are fast-paced and intense, but what really stands out is how they also carry emotional weight so readers feel like they have a personal stake in them. Themes of redemption and destiny play a large role but never feel overdone or predictable. What I loved most was how even the quiet moments had meaning, making the whole story feel grand and personal at the same time. Overall, Sword of the Fallen is a must-read for fantasy fans who love great characters and thrilling adventures and I definitely recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Assays of Ata
K.I.S.
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Fantasy - Epic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Assays of Ata by K.I.S. is an epic fantasy novel that follows Ata, a complex hero burdened with the roles of spy, liar, and traitor as she navigates a world of royal intrigue, violent invasions, and precarious alliances. Set in the tumultuous continent of Áitarbith, Ata battles alongside both friends and enemies, questioning loyalties and old relationships while striving for the greater good. As she maneuvers through treacherous courts and brutal warfare, the stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain.
Author K.I.S. crafts a richly detailed and immersive world that I fell into at once with a sense of total wonder. I loved the set-up of a fantasy realm with a rich and well-considered history of war and interpersonal drama. This is a fascinating and convincing blend of intricate political intrigue and epic battle scenes that make for a truly compelling and expansive narrative. Against this rich backdrop that is so passionately described and involved, we then meet the deeply layered and complex Ata, whose up-close narration and emotive dialogue allow readers to connect with her internal struggles and the moral complexities of her decisions as if we were right there struggling with her. She’s a powerful anti-hero figure burdened with some really dark deeds, but the empathy the author treats her with makes her deadly and exciting, but also deeply real and heartfelt as a person struggling for survival like everyone else. The pacing and suspenseful plot twists keep readers engaged, while the exploration of loyalty, love, and survival brings a much-needed emotional depth to the epic fantasy landscape. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Assays of Ata for your next fantasy read.
The Assays of Ata by K.I.S. is an epic fantasy novel that follows Ata, a complex hero burdened with the roles of spy, liar, and traitor as she navigates a world of royal intrigue, violent invasions, and precarious alliances. Set in the tumultuous continent of Áitarbith, Ata battles alongside both friends and enemies, questioning loyalties and old relationships while striving for the greater good. As she maneuvers through treacherous courts and brutal warfare, the stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain.
Author K.I.S. crafts a richly detailed and immersive world that I fell into at once with a sense of total wonder. I loved the set-up of a fantasy realm with a rich and well-considered history of war and interpersonal drama. This is a fascinating and convincing blend of intricate political intrigue and epic battle scenes that make for a truly compelling and expansive narrative. Against this rich backdrop that is so passionately described and involved, we then meet the deeply layered and complex Ata, whose up-close narration and emotive dialogue allow readers to connect with her internal struggles and the moral complexities of her decisions as if we were right there struggling with her. She’s a powerful anti-hero figure burdened with some really dark deeds, but the empathy the author treats her with makes her deadly and exciting, but also deeply real and heartfelt as a person struggling for survival like everyone else. The pacing and suspenseful plot twists keep readers engaged, while the exploration of loyalty, love, and survival brings a much-needed emotional depth to the epic fantasy landscape. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Assays of Ata for your next fantasy read.
Recommend this book:
Guard in the Garden
Fables of Finlestia
Z.S. Diamanti
2025 Gold Medal
294 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Cloie Belle Daffon for Readers' Favorite
Guard in the Garden: Fables of Finlestia by Z.S. Diamanti begins with a terrifying battle in Galium, in which Felton Hudlom is badly injured. Months had passed since the tragedy, and things were slowly returning to normal, despite the severe devastation caused by the dragon's fire during the battle. Although the majority of Felton's injuries have healed, he still suffers severe pain in his leg. As a result, it appeared that his military duty would end early. He'd committed his entire life to serving and protecting the people; what else can he do now? While recuperating at his twin aunts' home, he mistook a young woman for a robber, only to discover she owned their town's beautiful garden. Although the kind woman invited him into the garden, Felton felt uneasy there because someone appeared to be watching him. But in this garden, he also found new meaning. Read Guard in the Garden to accompany Felton on the journey he takes.
Z.S. Diamanti’s Guard in the Garden is well-written and heartwarming. Apart from Felton, there were many characters I loved, such as Lotmeag the foredwarf for his genuine care for Felton, Commander Qwen for her unwavering support for Felton, Felton's very caring twin aunts Cleary and Gael, Tobin for his compassion and warm personality despite only meeting Felton for the first time, Tullen for looking out for Felton despite the few times he may have caused a bit of trouble in his tavern, Tem the Tortoise for his mysterious personality, Tilli for being a ray of sunshine throughout the story, and Lili for being the most adorable character. There were also some useful lessons learned from each character's statements, such as Aunt Cleary's line, "Words have the power to breathe life or death," which is true. What you say to yourself will unintentionally become your reality, which is why constantly being kind to yourself matters so much, even when it is difficult. Another sentence I agree with is, "Though results vary, effort, when properly placed, is always worthwhile," which was brilliantly shown by Felton's experiences, actions, and the outcome of everything he accomplished. His road to healing warmed my heart, and I liked reading Guard in the Garden. Great work!
Guard in the Garden: Fables of Finlestia by Z.S. Diamanti begins with a terrifying battle in Galium, in which Felton Hudlom is badly injured. Months had passed since the tragedy, and things were slowly returning to normal, despite the severe devastation caused by the dragon's fire during the battle. Although the majority of Felton's injuries have healed, he still suffers severe pain in his leg. As a result, it appeared that his military duty would end early. He'd committed his entire life to serving and protecting the people; what else can he do now? While recuperating at his twin aunts' home, he mistook a young woman for a robber, only to discover she owned their town's beautiful garden. Although the kind woman invited him into the garden, Felton felt uneasy there because someone appeared to be watching him. But in this garden, he also found new meaning. Read Guard in the Garden to accompany Felton on the journey he takes.
Z.S. Diamanti’s Guard in the Garden is well-written and heartwarming. Apart from Felton, there were many characters I loved, such as Lotmeag the foredwarf for his genuine care for Felton, Commander Qwen for her unwavering support for Felton, Felton's very caring twin aunts Cleary and Gael, Tobin for his compassion and warm personality despite only meeting Felton for the first time, Tullen for looking out for Felton despite the few times he may have caused a bit of trouble in his tavern, Tem the Tortoise for his mysterious personality, Tilli for being a ray of sunshine throughout the story, and Lili for being the most adorable character. There were also some useful lessons learned from each character's statements, such as Aunt Cleary's line, "Words have the power to breathe life or death," which is true. What you say to yourself will unintentionally become your reality, which is why constantly being kind to yourself matters so much, even when it is difficult. Another sentence I agree with is, "Though results vary, effort, when properly placed, is always worthwhile," which was brilliantly shown by Felton's experiences, actions, and the outcome of everything he accomplished. His road to healing warmed my heart, and I liked reading Guard in the Garden. Great work!
Recommend this book:
In the Name of Honor
Vows & Valor Book 1
Courtney Collins, Clarke Collins
2025 Bronze Medal
371 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
In the Name of Honor by Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins takes readers into the enthralling adventures of Dimitar, a High Knight in training. Dimitar delivers a heartrending message to Kahled, King of Blackburn, involving the death of his close friend, King Conrad. This tragedy signals the presence of fiendish Corruptors in the land. In an attempt to seek vengeance for his fallen friend, King Kahled journeys into the unknown and is captured by the enemy. Nonetheless, before leaving Blackburn, he gives Dimitar the task of protecting his daughter, Princess Kaleela, who is also mourning the death of King Conrad. Dimitar intercepts a message regarding King Kahled's fate. Upon learning of the king's capture, Kaleela, Dimitar, and their companions set out to rescue him. Their arduous journey is filled with secrets, betrayal, unforetold dangers, and a pending war.
Fans of the LOTR franchise will be impressed by the stellar storytelling in this novel. In the Name of Honor is a compelling read that flawlessly merges multiple points of view, high-stakes adventure, an engaging plot, emotionally charged storylines, complex characters rich in diversity, and a well-designed world that will immediately grasp your undivided attention. It is a riveting story that touches on love, grief, revenge, courage, power, darkness, and war. Throughout Kaleela's and Dimitar's experiences, Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins effectively explore and incorporate themes like selflessness and trauma healing without diluting the action sequences. The Corruptors intrigued me the most. These beings create a welcome sense of menace, suspense, and trepidation throughout the storyline. I eagerly await the second installment of this captivating tale.
In the Name of Honor by Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins takes readers into the enthralling adventures of Dimitar, a High Knight in training. Dimitar delivers a heartrending message to Kahled, King of Blackburn, involving the death of his close friend, King Conrad. This tragedy signals the presence of fiendish Corruptors in the land. In an attempt to seek vengeance for his fallen friend, King Kahled journeys into the unknown and is captured by the enemy. Nonetheless, before leaving Blackburn, he gives Dimitar the task of protecting his daughter, Princess Kaleela, who is also mourning the death of King Conrad. Dimitar intercepts a message regarding King Kahled's fate. Upon learning of the king's capture, Kaleela, Dimitar, and their companions set out to rescue him. Their arduous journey is filled with secrets, betrayal, unforetold dangers, and a pending war.
Fans of the LOTR franchise will be impressed by the stellar storytelling in this novel. In the Name of Honor is a compelling read that flawlessly merges multiple points of view, high-stakes adventure, an engaging plot, emotionally charged storylines, complex characters rich in diversity, and a well-designed world that will immediately grasp your undivided attention. It is a riveting story that touches on love, grief, revenge, courage, power, darkness, and war. Throughout Kaleela's and Dimitar's experiences, Courtney Collins and Clarke Collins effectively explore and incorporate themes like selflessness and trauma healing without diluting the action sequences. The Corruptors intrigued me the most. These beings create a welcome sense of menace, suspense, and trepidation throughout the storyline. I eagerly await the second installment of this captivating tale.
Recommend this book:
The Minstrel and the Prophet
Book One of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker
Larry Z. Daily
2025 Honorable Mention
232 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - General
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
The Minstrel and the Prophet by Larry Z. Daily, the first book of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker, will appeal to fans of epic fantasy, action, and adventure. Lauren grows up in the village of Cresswell, in the Federated Kingdoms of Alomar. His father, Dalach, is the local chieftain. Once a warrior himself, Dalach wants his son to continue his legacy. But Lauren disagrees with Dalach, albeit quietly. Lauren hopes to be a minstrel, craving the freedom of these traveling musicians. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences trouble the Federation. Can two-headed newborn lambs and unusually aggressive wildlife herald an approaching catastrophe? Is an old prophecy of the Lawbreaker powerful enough to challenge the gods coming true? Lauren's acquaintance with a minstrel named Ryan triggers a chain of events. After an ugly scene with Dalach, Lauren leaves the village to become a minstrel. Disturbed by strange dreams and voices, Lauren is adamant about dedicating his life to music and knowledge while the Federation is shaken to the core.
The Minstrel and the Prophet is Larry Z. Daily's brilliant debut novel. Creative world-building and puzzling yet well-thought-out mythology will inspire the reader, especially the young adult audience, to read the genre's immortal classics. Yet Daily's approach is fresh and unique. We follow the events from Lauren's viewpoint. He is an unusual main character for a fantasy novel. Lauren despises physical strength if it leads to aggression. He values freedom and communication with people. A mystery surrounds him until the last mind-blowing revelation, making us wait impatiently for the next book. Daily describes the conflict between Dalach and Lauren with compassion. Many characters have a surprising backstory and an unexpected side. Among the secondary characters, wise Ambrose the prophet, and Lauren's teacher, Ryan, stand out. The author examines the essential themes of acceptance and tolerance of others' views. The plot teases readers with bewildering intrigue and offers an unforgettable adventure.
The Minstrel and the Prophet by Larry Z. Daily, the first book of the Chronicles of the Lawbreaker, will appeal to fans of epic fantasy, action, and adventure. Lauren grows up in the village of Cresswell, in the Federated Kingdoms of Alomar. His father, Dalach, is the local chieftain. Once a warrior himself, Dalach wants his son to continue his legacy. But Lauren disagrees with Dalach, albeit quietly. Lauren hopes to be a minstrel, craving the freedom of these traveling musicians. Meanwhile, bizarre occurrences trouble the Federation. Can two-headed newborn lambs and unusually aggressive wildlife herald an approaching catastrophe? Is an old prophecy of the Lawbreaker powerful enough to challenge the gods coming true? Lauren's acquaintance with a minstrel named Ryan triggers a chain of events. After an ugly scene with Dalach, Lauren leaves the village to become a minstrel. Disturbed by strange dreams and voices, Lauren is adamant about dedicating his life to music and knowledge while the Federation is shaken to the core.
The Minstrel and the Prophet is Larry Z. Daily's brilliant debut novel. Creative world-building and puzzling yet well-thought-out mythology will inspire the reader, especially the young adult audience, to read the genre's immortal classics. Yet Daily's approach is fresh and unique. We follow the events from Lauren's viewpoint. He is an unusual main character for a fantasy novel. Lauren despises physical strength if it leads to aggression. He values freedom and communication with people. A mystery surrounds him until the last mind-blowing revelation, making us wait impatiently for the next book. Daily describes the conflict between Dalach and Lauren with compassion. Many characters have a surprising backstory and an unexpected side. Among the secondary characters, wise Ambrose the prophet, and Lauren's teacher, Ryan, stand out. The author examines the essential themes of acceptance and tolerance of others' views. The plot teases readers with bewildering intrigue and offers an unforgettable adventure.
Recommend this book:
Grover Wilcox Goes to the Circus
Martin Lastrapes
2025 Silver Medal
477 Pages
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Fiction - Fantasy - Urban
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Grover Wilcox Goes to the Circus by Martin Lastrapes is an urban fantasy about Grover Wilcox, an English professor who always dreamed of joining the circus but never had any real skills. Until a kitchen fire in which he should have died but didn’t. Grover is fireproof. When the Grambling Brothers Travelling Circus Show arrives in town, he can’t resist going, and his newfound power earns him an offer he can’t refuse. It doesn’t take him long to learn that this is more than just a circus. Beneath the surface, a dark, sinister secret is hiding, and Grover begins to realize he might have been a bit too hasty. What secret is the circus hiding? And can Grover escape unscathed?
Grover Wilcox Goes to the Circus by Martin Lastrapes is an incredible story. Yes, it has some bad language and violence, not to mention a few sexual scenes, but it all fits in with the plot, and there is plenty of humor to lighten the load. This is a twisty plot, and it will take you in all directions, but it is one of the most unique plots with plenty of action and solid dialog. The characters are well-developed and very likable, and you’ll love the main protagonist, Grover—a relatable character with a real personality. Lastrapes has a wonderfully creative imagination, which shines through in this story, written in the first person, which is not always easy to pull off, but it works perfectly here. With plenty of suspense, this will keep you hooked from start to finish. Highly enjoyable and recommended for anyone who wants to escape reality for a while.
Grover Wilcox Goes to the Circus by Martin Lastrapes is an urban fantasy about Grover Wilcox, an English professor who always dreamed of joining the circus but never had any real skills. Until a kitchen fire in which he should have died but didn’t. Grover is fireproof. When the Grambling Brothers Travelling Circus Show arrives in town, he can’t resist going, and his newfound power earns him an offer he can’t refuse. It doesn’t take him long to learn that this is more than just a circus. Beneath the surface, a dark, sinister secret is hiding, and Grover begins to realize he might have been a bit too hasty. What secret is the circus hiding? And can Grover escape unscathed?
Grover Wilcox Goes to the Circus by Martin Lastrapes is an incredible story. Yes, it has some bad language and violence, not to mention a few sexual scenes, but it all fits in with the plot, and there is plenty of humor to lighten the load. This is a twisty plot, and it will take you in all directions, but it is one of the most unique plots with plenty of action and solid dialog. The characters are well-developed and very likable, and you’ll love the main protagonist, Grover—a relatable character with a real personality. Lastrapes has a wonderfully creative imagination, which shines through in this story, written in the first person, which is not always easy to pull off, but it works perfectly here. With plenty of suspense, this will keep you hooked from start to finish. Highly enjoyable and recommended for anyone who wants to escape reality for a while.
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