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Recommend this book:
The One Week Writing Workshop
7 Days to Spark, Boost or Revive Your Novel
Karin Adams
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Karin Adams' One Week Writing Workshop offers a structured, seven-day approach to story writing. It includes daily warmups and core exercises to enhance skills, stimulate creativity, and tackle writer's block. Writers can either start a new project or refine an existing one, with a focus on idea generation, plot development, and storyboarding. For example, day four highlights the plot with a mini storyboard; and Adams' workshop leans into the importance of the writing process over the end product. Techniques such as brainstorming, "Writer’s Walks," and using sensory elements like music are employed to boost creativity. Readers are taught about building characters by writing detailed biographies, first-person viewpoints, and visual aids; the setting is integrated with character actions, and the story world is expanded through backstories and physical models. The workshop stresses revision, advising a focus on story core, gathering feedback, and incremental improvements.
One Week Writing Workshop by Karin Adams is a wonderfully pragmatic and engaging approach to writing, making it a standout resource for both novice and seasoned writers. Adams’ own writing style within the workshop is comfortably conversational, making it accessible in how she provides a clear seven-day plan that guides readers. I think her encouragement to embrace the act of writing and experiment freely is extremely helpful and brings writers back to the joy of storytelling. The workshop excels in practical advice, such as using sensory details to bring settings to life and creating dynamic characters through innovative exercises. I personally thought the “500/500 Method” for balancing new writing with revisions to be particularly effective. Overall, with Adams' implementation of interactive elements throughout and her thoughtful strategies that foster steps and prompt proactive writing, One Week Writing Workshop is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their craft and stay inspired. Very highly recommended.
Karin Adams' One Week Writing Workshop offers a structured, seven-day approach to story writing. It includes daily warmups and core exercises to enhance skills, stimulate creativity, and tackle writer's block. Writers can either start a new project or refine an existing one, with a focus on idea generation, plot development, and storyboarding. For example, day four highlights the plot with a mini storyboard; and Adams' workshop leans into the importance of the writing process over the end product. Techniques such as brainstorming, "Writer’s Walks," and using sensory elements like music are employed to boost creativity. Readers are taught about building characters by writing detailed biographies, first-person viewpoints, and visual aids; the setting is integrated with character actions, and the story world is expanded through backstories and physical models. The workshop stresses revision, advising a focus on story core, gathering feedback, and incremental improvements.
One Week Writing Workshop by Karin Adams is a wonderfully pragmatic and engaging approach to writing, making it a standout resource for both novice and seasoned writers. Adams’ own writing style within the workshop is comfortably conversational, making it accessible in how she provides a clear seven-day plan that guides readers. I think her encouragement to embrace the act of writing and experiment freely is extremely helpful and brings writers back to the joy of storytelling. The workshop excels in practical advice, such as using sensory details to bring settings to life and creating dynamic characters through innovative exercises. I personally thought the “500/500 Method” for balancing new writing with revisions to be particularly effective. Overall, with Adams' implementation of interactive elements throughout and her thoughtful strategies that foster steps and prompt proactive writing, One Week Writing Workshop is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their craft and stay inspired. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Escape the Writer’s Web
Untangle Your Procrastination Type, Discover Personalized Solutions, and Transform Your Writing Life
Colleen M. Story
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Escape the Writer’s Web by Colleen M. Story is a comprehensive guide to understanding and overcoming procrastination, specifically tailored for writers and creative artists. The book begins by illustrating how procrastination is an insidious curse that can sabotage dreams and lead to lifelong regret. It explores the science and psychology behind why we delay tasks, highlighting that procrastination is often more complex than mere laziness or lack of discipline. The author emphasizes that each person has a unique "procrastination type," such as Worrier, Avoider, Dreamer, Perfectionist, or Crisis-Maker, and provides detailed insights and strategies for identifying and addressing these specific patterns. The book offers personalized tools, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to untangle one's web of delays, encouraging readers to embrace their authentic selves and take consistent, meaningful action toward their creative goals.
I haven’t written a book and didn’t have any plans to write one, but Colleen M. Story made me feel like I can do it. I learned a lot from this book because it is not written only for writers, but for anyone struggling with a passion, a task, or a dream; the strategies outlined can be applied to any area of life. Escape the Writer’s Web explores various themes and discusses self-awareness, compassion, and the importance of mindset in overcoming procrastination. It underlines that procrastination often stems from underlying fears—fear of failure, rejection, or imperfection—that must be acknowledged and addressed with kindness rather than self-criticism. The author encourages readers with practical steps to shift perceptions of tasks from daunting to manageable and fun, breaking projects into small, achievable steps, and to celebrate progress along the way. This book gives you the tools you need to succeed as a writer or an artist; it is written in clear prose, filled with actionable steps and insights.
Escape the Writer’s Web by Colleen M. Story is a comprehensive guide to understanding and overcoming procrastination, specifically tailored for writers and creative artists. The book begins by illustrating how procrastination is an insidious curse that can sabotage dreams and lead to lifelong regret. It explores the science and psychology behind why we delay tasks, highlighting that procrastination is often more complex than mere laziness or lack of discipline. The author emphasizes that each person has a unique "procrastination type," such as Worrier, Avoider, Dreamer, Perfectionist, or Crisis-Maker, and provides detailed insights and strategies for identifying and addressing these specific patterns. The book offers personalized tools, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to untangle one's web of delays, encouraging readers to embrace their authentic selves and take consistent, meaningful action toward their creative goals.
I haven’t written a book and didn’t have any plans to write one, but Colleen M. Story made me feel like I can do it. I learned a lot from this book because it is not written only for writers, but for anyone struggling with a passion, a task, or a dream; the strategies outlined can be applied to any area of life. Escape the Writer’s Web explores various themes and discusses self-awareness, compassion, and the importance of mindset in overcoming procrastination. It underlines that procrastination often stems from underlying fears—fear of failure, rejection, or imperfection—that must be acknowledged and addressed with kindness rather than self-criticism. The author encourages readers with practical steps to shift perceptions of tasks from daunting to manageable and fun, breaking projects into small, achievable steps, and to celebrate progress along the way. This book gives you the tools you need to succeed as a writer or an artist; it is written in clear prose, filled with actionable steps and insights.
Recommend this book:
The Game
The Techboys Series Book 5
Eve M. Riley
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
The Game by Eve M. Riley is the fifth book in The Techboys Series. You can read this installment as a standalone romance. The story introduces Anna Talanova, a talented Russian tennis star at the peak of her career, experiencing personal betrayals and the persistent media scrutiny following her breakup with a manipulative Olympian, Arty Maroz. She makes tough choices after finding out that her boyfriend has been cheating on her. Then she meets Adam Miller, a dedicated but struggling electronics startup founder, who finds himself unexpectedly thrust into the limelight when Janus, his humorous and resourceful friend, urges him to attend a prestigious awards event as Anna’s escort. Anna and Adam form a tentative friendship rooted in mutual understanding and shared troubles, both struggling with external threats—Arty’s manipulations and the press’s invasive attention—and doubts about love, success, and trust. Can Anna's new relationship withstand the resurgence of her past?
Eve M. Riley’s storytelling captivated me, starting with the intriguing premise. Anna's reaction to Arty's cheating initially appears to be a well-planned retaliation, but as she becomes more comfortable with Adam, she gradually begins to develop feelings for him. The author balances clever characterization with unexpected plot twists, and I loved the characters; each one is complex. This story effectively explores the demands of Anna's profession and the impact of the press on her life. The detailed setting captures the glamour of red-carpet events, the intensity of competitive sports, and the authenticity of tech startups. I recommend The Game for its gorgeous writing, the well-explored characters, and the clever plotting.
The Game by Eve M. Riley is the fifth book in The Techboys Series. You can read this installment as a standalone romance. The story introduces Anna Talanova, a talented Russian tennis star at the peak of her career, experiencing personal betrayals and the persistent media scrutiny following her breakup with a manipulative Olympian, Arty Maroz. She makes tough choices after finding out that her boyfriend has been cheating on her. Then she meets Adam Miller, a dedicated but struggling electronics startup founder, who finds himself unexpectedly thrust into the limelight when Janus, his humorous and resourceful friend, urges him to attend a prestigious awards event as Anna’s escort. Anna and Adam form a tentative friendship rooted in mutual understanding and shared troubles, both struggling with external threats—Arty’s manipulations and the press’s invasive attention—and doubts about love, success, and trust. Can Anna's new relationship withstand the resurgence of her past?
Eve M. Riley’s storytelling captivated me, starting with the intriguing premise. Anna's reaction to Arty's cheating initially appears to be a well-planned retaliation, but as she becomes more comfortable with Adam, she gradually begins to develop feelings for him. The author balances clever characterization with unexpected plot twists, and I loved the characters; each one is complex. This story effectively explores the demands of Anna's profession and the impact of the press on her life. The detailed setting captures the glamour of red-carpet events, the intensity of competitive sports, and the authenticity of tech startups. I recommend The Game for its gorgeous writing, the well-explored characters, and the clever plotting.
Recommend this book:
A Dagger in the Ivy
Dorothy Dreyer
2025 Gold Medal
420 Pages
Check current price
Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
A Dagger in the Ivy by Dorothy Dreyer takes the reader into the perilous world of Terre Ferique, where kingdoms are on the brink of war, and ancient magic stirs beneath the surface. Celeste Westergaard, a half-fae warrior and heir to the throne of Delasurvia, is caught between duty and destiny. As supernatural threats rise, political alliances are made through her arranged marriage to Torbin, the Prince of Hedera. Celeste must navigate a kingdom riddled with secrets, shifting loyalties, and her awakening powers. With the threat of madness looming if her fae magic does not emerge, and Dante’s cold half-brother blocking her every move with hostility, Celeste races against time to protect her people and unravel the truth of her bloodline.
Dorothy Dreyer delivers a richly woven fantasy filled with political tension, romance, emotions, and a heroine who balances her fierce strength with inner vulnerability. Celeste is a compelling lead torn between the expectations of royalty and the unpredictability of her magical heritage. The world-building is outstanding and immersive. It blends political instability with mythic elements and dark enchantment. The romance elements simmer beneath the surface before fully blooming. It adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes plot. I loved the chemistry between Celeste and Dante. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and became a lifeline for them both. The descriptions are lyrical and atmospheric, enhancing the sense of danger and mystery. A Dagger in the Ivy is a captivating blend of fantasy and intrigue, perfect for Sarah J. Maas or Holly Black fans. I loved it and highly recommend it!
A Dagger in the Ivy by Dorothy Dreyer takes the reader into the perilous world of Terre Ferique, where kingdoms are on the brink of war, and ancient magic stirs beneath the surface. Celeste Westergaard, a half-fae warrior and heir to the throne of Delasurvia, is caught between duty and destiny. As supernatural threats rise, political alliances are made through her arranged marriage to Torbin, the Prince of Hedera. Celeste must navigate a kingdom riddled with secrets, shifting loyalties, and her awakening powers. With the threat of madness looming if her fae magic does not emerge, and Dante’s cold half-brother blocking her every move with hostility, Celeste races against time to protect her people and unravel the truth of her bloodline.
Dorothy Dreyer delivers a richly woven fantasy filled with political tension, romance, emotions, and a heroine who balances her fierce strength with inner vulnerability. Celeste is a compelling lead torn between the expectations of royalty and the unpredictability of her magical heritage. The world-building is outstanding and immersive. It blends political instability with mythic elements and dark enchantment. The romance elements simmer beneath the surface before fully blooming. It adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes plot. I loved the chemistry between Celeste and Dante. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and became a lifeline for them both. The descriptions are lyrical and atmospheric, enhancing the sense of danger and mystery. A Dagger in the Ivy is a captivating blend of fantasy and intrigue, perfect for Sarah J. Maas or Holly Black fans. I loved it and highly recommend it!
Recommend this book:
Empowering the Wolf's Heart
A Red Riding Hood Retelling
Ava Grace Bentley
2025 Honorable Mention
476 Pages
Check current price
Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite
Ava Grace Bentley brings us a beautiful fantasy/sci-fi romance in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart: A Red Riding Hood Retelling. Alia is a Red assassin, the matriarch's granddaughter and the heir apparent of the Reds, whose mission is to eliminate magic and protect humankind. However, she has a secret that could cost her life and that of her family if discovered. She has been questioning the rules that govern the Reds for some time. When Alia is sent to kill the werewolf known as the Hood, who murdered her grandfather, she doesn’t expect to end up fighting for the life of the kidnapped bait. Shen, the werewolf prince, has lost hope and the will to live, but finds himself intrigued by this little assassin. Could their choices mean the end of their lives?
Author Ava Grace Bentley successfully captures readers' imaginations in this retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood tale. The first-person narrative, told from the perspectives of our two protagonists, brings their thoughts and feelings into a more perceivable and personal view. This book is filled with characters rich in personality and wit. Sensory stimulation will make you feel every shiver as though it were your own. I loved the overarching theme of total surrender throughout these pages and how different emotions have specific scents. The story includes plenty of action with perfectly choreographed fight scenes, dark magic, and mythical creatures. The twists and turns in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart will leave you reeling with new possible truths. This is a slow-burn romance, making it suitable for young adult readers as well.
Ava Grace Bentley brings us a beautiful fantasy/sci-fi romance in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart: A Red Riding Hood Retelling. Alia is a Red assassin, the matriarch's granddaughter and the heir apparent of the Reds, whose mission is to eliminate magic and protect humankind. However, she has a secret that could cost her life and that of her family if discovered. She has been questioning the rules that govern the Reds for some time. When Alia is sent to kill the werewolf known as the Hood, who murdered her grandfather, she doesn’t expect to end up fighting for the life of the kidnapped bait. Shen, the werewolf prince, has lost hope and the will to live, but finds himself intrigued by this little assassin. Could their choices mean the end of their lives?
Author Ava Grace Bentley successfully captures readers' imaginations in this retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood tale. The first-person narrative, told from the perspectives of our two protagonists, brings their thoughts and feelings into a more perceivable and personal view. This book is filled with characters rich in personality and wit. Sensory stimulation will make you feel every shiver as though it were your own. I loved the overarching theme of total surrender throughout these pages and how different emotions have specific scents. The story includes plenty of action with perfectly choreographed fight scenes, dark magic, and mythical creatures. The twists and turns in Empowering the Wolf’s Heart will leave you reeling with new possible truths. This is a slow-burn romance, making it suitable for young adult readers as well.
Recommend this book:
 by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But...){kind=link}
The Swordsman
The Blackchurch Guild
Kathryn Le Veque
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Swordsman (The Blackchurch Guild) by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But when her noble lineage is revealed, Sin faces an impossible choice: abandon his feelings or defy tradition and fight for love. With dangerous factions closing in, this passionate historical romance is a battle of the heart as much as the sword.
Author Kathryn Le Veque has a real talent for the style and flourish needed for period drama. This is a swoon-worthy medieval romance filled with action, honor, and forbidden love that I leaped into eagerly. I particularly enjoyed the characters, which stand out at the center of the drama, with both Sin and Elisiana competing to jump off the page and captivate you, albeit for very different reasons. There was something very ‘Zorro’ about Sin, but he’s much more emotionally well-developed than your typical swashbuckler, and this attention to detail in the narrative lets us get to know him on a deeper level. It made me root for him all the more as the dangers around him grew, but also in his developing bond with Elisiana, who is a bundle of energy with fantastic dialogue that shows her fears and vulnerabilities. This powerhouse duo at the core becomes the catalyst for passion, swordplay, and high-stakes drama that will certainly keep readers turning pages right through to the satisfying conclusion. Overall, The Swordsman is a must-read that I would not hesitate to recommend to historical romance lovers.
The Swordsman (The Blackchurch Guild) by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But when her noble lineage is revealed, Sin faces an impossible choice: abandon his feelings or defy tradition and fight for love. With dangerous factions closing in, this passionate historical romance is a battle of the heart as much as the sword.
Author Kathryn Le Veque has a real talent for the style and flourish needed for period drama. This is a swoon-worthy medieval romance filled with action, honor, and forbidden love that I leaped into eagerly. I particularly enjoyed the characters, which stand out at the center of the drama, with both Sin and Elisiana competing to jump off the page and captivate you, albeit for very different reasons. There was something very ‘Zorro’ about Sin, but he’s much more emotionally well-developed than your typical swashbuckler, and this attention to detail in the narrative lets us get to know him on a deeper level. It made me root for him all the more as the dangers around him grew, but also in his developing bond with Elisiana, who is a bundle of energy with fantastic dialogue that shows her fears and vulnerabilities. This powerhouse duo at the core becomes the catalyst for passion, swordplay, and high-stakes drama that will certainly keep readers turning pages right through to the satisfying conclusion. Overall, The Swordsman is a must-read that I would not hesitate to recommend to historical romance lovers.
Recommend this book:
The Perks of Loving a Viscount
The Strongs of Shadowcrest Book 2
Alexa Aston
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Ankita Shukla for Readers' Favorite
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a historical romance set in the late eighteenth century. Seth Atwell is content with his life as a ship's captain until he discovers he is bound for a life of luxury and responsibility as a viscount. Unbeknownst to him, he is the new Viscount Hopewell. Though the news initially leaves him heartbroken, he resolves to embrace his duties, including managing his estate and upholding his new title. When Seth crosses paths with Lady Phillipa Strong, he is captivated not only by her beauty but also by her unique personality. Unlike any woman he has ever met, she intrigues him deeply. Though thoroughly smitten, he chooses to take things slowly, determined to treat her with respect. Meanwhile, Lady Phillipa—or Pippa, as she prefers—wants nothing to do with the constraints of the predictable life of a lady. The idea of losing her freedom in marriage seems preposterous to her. Yet Seth fascinates her enough to make her reconsider her choices.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a beautifully written romantic novel, capturing the mannerisms of the eighteenth century. The outward allure and financial freedom of the 'ton' life stand in ironic contrast to the suffocating restrictions it demands. The author skillfully portrays women's fears through Pippa's perspective. With Sophie—a more mature woman—Alexa Aston presents the most fortunate scenario a woman could hope for in that era. The male characters are refreshingly polite and open-minded. Though the plot lacks dramatic twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, the elegant storyline and tasteful intimate scenes create a warm, cozy, romantic read.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a historical romance set in the late eighteenth century. Seth Atwell is content with his life as a ship's captain until he discovers he is bound for a life of luxury and responsibility as a viscount. Unbeknownst to him, he is the new Viscount Hopewell. Though the news initially leaves him heartbroken, he resolves to embrace his duties, including managing his estate and upholding his new title. When Seth crosses paths with Lady Phillipa Strong, he is captivated not only by her beauty but also by her unique personality. Unlike any woman he has ever met, she intrigues him deeply. Though thoroughly smitten, he chooses to take things slowly, determined to treat her with respect. Meanwhile, Lady Phillipa—or Pippa, as she prefers—wants nothing to do with the constraints of the predictable life of a lady. The idea of losing her freedom in marriage seems preposterous to her. Yet Seth fascinates her enough to make her reconsider her choices.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a beautifully written romantic novel, capturing the mannerisms of the eighteenth century. The outward allure and financial freedom of the 'ton' life stand in ironic contrast to the suffocating restrictions it demands. The author skillfully portrays women's fears through Pippa's perspective. With Sophie—a more mature woman—Alexa Aston presents the most fortunate scenario a woman could hope for in that era. The male characters are refreshingly polite and open-minded. Though the plot lacks dramatic twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, the elegant storyline and tasteful intimate scenes create a warm, cozy, romantic read.
Recommend this book:
The Rogues Who Went Rogue
Book Two of the Coalescence of the Five
Stina's Pen
2025 Gold Medal
527 Pages
Check current price
Romance - Paranormal
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
When Margaret Rouge, a powerful, red rogue wolf, realizes that her teenage daughter Stella has wandered off into the White Blood Pack territory, one of the most guarded wolf territories, she must act fast. However, the plan to rescue her daughter leads her and her rogue pack into the clutches of Lycan royalty, King Alexandar and Queen Lucianne. For Lycan royalty, hell is threatening to break loose. An unknown enemy has invaded vampire territory, abducting vampires in their wake, and the vampires think it’s Alexandar’s people. It does not help when the royal family learns that one of the king’s closest allies is bonded to a rogue wolf, Margaret. With their kingdom’s fate at stake, the royal family is forced to forge unlikely alliances and risk trusting their enemies to protect the kingdom. Discover how it all goes down in The Rogues Who Went Rogue: Book Two of the Coalescence of the Five by Stina’s Pen.
Lovers of romance paranormal novels with a touch of drama and fantasy will find The Rogues Who Went Rogue by Stina’s Pen an enthralling read. The author whisked me away from reality and hurled me into a world of endless imagination. I was treated to suspense, adventure, and plot twists I never saw coming. The great attention to detail and the vivid depictions of the scenes made me feel like I was next to the cast in every scene, slowly watching the action unfold. The author gives down-to-earth depictions of the cast. Juxtaposing their complex traits made it easy to connect with them. I could relate to Tate’s predicament, and I could not help rooting for him.
When Margaret Rouge, a powerful, red rogue wolf, realizes that her teenage daughter Stella has wandered off into the White Blood Pack territory, one of the most guarded wolf territories, she must act fast. However, the plan to rescue her daughter leads her and her rogue pack into the clutches of Lycan royalty, King Alexandar and Queen Lucianne. For Lycan royalty, hell is threatening to break loose. An unknown enemy has invaded vampire territory, abducting vampires in their wake, and the vampires think it’s Alexandar’s people. It does not help when the royal family learns that one of the king’s closest allies is bonded to a rogue wolf, Margaret. With their kingdom’s fate at stake, the royal family is forced to forge unlikely alliances and risk trusting their enemies to protect the kingdom. Discover how it all goes down in The Rogues Who Went Rogue: Book Two of the Coalescence of the Five by Stina’s Pen.
Lovers of romance paranormal novels with a touch of drama and fantasy will find The Rogues Who Went Rogue by Stina’s Pen an enthralling read. The author whisked me away from reality and hurled me into a world of endless imagination. I was treated to suspense, adventure, and plot twists I never saw coming. The great attention to detail and the vivid depictions of the scenes made me feel like I was next to the cast in every scene, slowly watching the action unfold. The author gives down-to-earth depictions of the cast. Juxtaposing their complex traits made it easy to connect with them. I could relate to Tate’s predicament, and I could not help rooting for him.
Recommend this book:
A Prince of the Djinn
Beyond Midlife Magic
Allie McCormack
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Paranormal
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
A Prince of the Djinn: Beyond Midlife Magic by Allie McCormack tells the tale of Amanda, aka Mandy Dupont, a grounded and down-to-earth woman whose world is turned upside down when she acquires a mysterious pendant that houses the ancient and enigmatic Djinn prince, Kieran. Though powerful and impossibly beautiful, Kieran carries the burden of having lived through many centuries, leaving his heart dulled by time. That is, until Mandy’s light rekindles emotions he thought were lost forever. Their connection is immediate yet tender, built not on superficial attraction but on mutual recognition. These two souls, who have stepped back from life's chaos, find each other when they least expected it.
A Prince of the Djinn by Allie McCormack is a beautifully written paranormal romance that blends heartfelt emotion with magic and just a touch of realism. McCormack masterfully paints Mandy not as someone to pity, but rather as a woman with a fierce spirit, humour, and unfulfilled dreams. What makes A Prince of the Djinn truly extraordinary is how it embraces the realities of aging without letting it define the character’s worth or capabilities. Mandy's age and physical limitations are acknowledged, and through that, we see her true strength of will and the beauty of her soul. On the contrary, Kieran's timelessness shows the loneliness and emotional fatigue that immortality can bring. The contrast between these two characters makes the end of this novel that much more significant and impactful. I think this book really touches on love's ability to transcend time, one’s body, and expectations. This novel is truly a rare find in the world of fantasy romance, and I highly recommend it.
A Prince of the Djinn: Beyond Midlife Magic by Allie McCormack tells the tale of Amanda, aka Mandy Dupont, a grounded and down-to-earth woman whose world is turned upside down when she acquires a mysterious pendant that houses the ancient and enigmatic Djinn prince, Kieran. Though powerful and impossibly beautiful, Kieran carries the burden of having lived through many centuries, leaving his heart dulled by time. That is, until Mandy’s light rekindles emotions he thought were lost forever. Their connection is immediate yet tender, built not on superficial attraction but on mutual recognition. These two souls, who have stepped back from life's chaos, find each other when they least expected it.
A Prince of the Djinn by Allie McCormack is a beautifully written paranormal romance that blends heartfelt emotion with magic and just a touch of realism. McCormack masterfully paints Mandy not as someone to pity, but rather as a woman with a fierce spirit, humour, and unfulfilled dreams. What makes A Prince of the Djinn truly extraordinary is how it embraces the realities of aging without letting it define the character’s worth or capabilities. Mandy's age and physical limitations are acknowledged, and through that, we see her true strength of will and the beauty of her soul. On the contrary, Kieran's timelessness shows the loneliness and emotional fatigue that immortality can bring. The contrast between these two characters makes the end of this novel that much more significant and impactful. I think this book really touches on love's ability to transcend time, one’s body, and expectations. This novel is truly a rare find in the world of fantasy romance, and I highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Scald Crow
Beyond the Faerie Rath Book 1
Hanna Park
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Paranormal
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Calla Sweet has lost her job and her last living relative. She relocates to Ireland to reconnect with her ancestry and claim her inheritance. While there, she befriends Saoirse Dunne, a delightful resident who knows everything about the area. Given the circumstances surrounding their meeting, Colm O'Donnell is the one person she desperately wants to learn more about. Colm has an air of seriousness that conceals the pain in his heart, yet a magnetic aura draws her to him, making it difficult for him to resist. Unbeknownst to him, this young woman has the key to a mystery he is determined to unravel in Hanna Park's The Scald Crow.
Hanna Park's The Scald Crow is the first instalment in the Beyond the Faerie Rath series. Park draws inspiration for the world-building from Irish folklore, detailing the intriguing connections between its legendary mystical beings and the deep-rooted beliefs linking the contemporary world to that enchanting realm. She intricately integrates Calla's origin story into the narrative, skillfully concealing significant aspects until the latter stages. This unique method will captivate readers, engaging them in discovering Calla's mysterious lineage and making them feel invested in the series. The dialogue flows smoothly, as the detailed narrative emphasizes the Gaelic words in the banter, making the narrative believable. Mystery enthusiasts will find the subplots intriguing, while fantasy purists will appreciate the details about mythical creatures. I was impressed by the seamless transitions between past and present, highlighting Calla's activities and the principal characters' viewpoints. The Scald Crow embodies the ideal fantasy-romance blend. I am keen to read the sequel.
Calla Sweet has lost her job and her last living relative. She relocates to Ireland to reconnect with her ancestry and claim her inheritance. While there, she befriends Saoirse Dunne, a delightful resident who knows everything about the area. Given the circumstances surrounding their meeting, Colm O'Donnell is the one person she desperately wants to learn more about. Colm has an air of seriousness that conceals the pain in his heart, yet a magnetic aura draws her to him, making it difficult for him to resist. Unbeknownst to him, this young woman has the key to a mystery he is determined to unravel in Hanna Park's The Scald Crow.
Hanna Park's The Scald Crow is the first instalment in the Beyond the Faerie Rath series. Park draws inspiration for the world-building from Irish folklore, detailing the intriguing connections between its legendary mystical beings and the deep-rooted beliefs linking the contemporary world to that enchanting realm. She intricately integrates Calla's origin story into the narrative, skillfully concealing significant aspects until the latter stages. This unique method will captivate readers, engaging them in discovering Calla's mysterious lineage and making them feel invested in the series. The dialogue flows smoothly, as the detailed narrative emphasizes the Gaelic words in the banter, making the narrative believable. Mystery enthusiasts will find the subplots intriguing, while fantasy purists will appreciate the details about mythical creatures. I was impressed by the seamless transitions between past and present, highlighting Calla's activities and the principal characters' viewpoints. The Scald Crow embodies the ideal fantasy-romance blend. I am keen to read the sequel.
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