Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

The Last Relapse by Sathiya Sam is a Christian self-help guide for men who are willing to address an addiction to pornography to “Realize Your Potential, Reclaim Intimacy, and Resolve the Root Issues of Porn Addiction”. Sam begins by opening up about his 15-year struggle with pornography addiction and the proactive, Bible-based approach that finally broke the cycle. Broken down into four distinct and interconnecting sections with two to three chapters in each, Sam covers Taking Back Control Of Your Life with the fundamentals, Healing From Your Past to address pain, triggers, and moving forward, Regaining Your Confidence and its requirement to dig deep to answer uncomfortable questions, and Becoming A New Man in which Sam really brings in the spirituality aspects for long-term success.

Sathiya Sam presents a well-written, no-holds-barred book on accountability and healing in The Last Relapse. The narrative is relatable and incredibly intelligent and has the right amount of compassion to make a reader feel comfortable while addressing an addiction that is exceptionally uncomfortable. I was heartened by Sam's profound honesty and saddened by the losses he describes. I am also heartened by the hope and positive reinforcement provided and executed so deftly that there is no doubt that those two things have no meaning if a reader is not willing to put in the hard work. And it will be hard. Scripture is employed heavily as the backbone to Sam's coaching and the Bible-based model works to bring readers who are likely to feel unworthy back into God's embrace. It should be noted that this is a guide geared very specifically toward men, and while most of it can be applied toward addicted women with the mental flip of a pronoun, it might not have the same degree of impact. Overall, this is a fantastically written book that will certainly be a catalyst for change.

Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

End Times prophecy has been with us for millennia and, in that regard, the Christian Bible has a rich tradition. For example, the Old Testament prophet Daniel gave a vivid account, while the enigmatic New Testament book of Revelation is even more graphic. All of this has been the subject of wide interpretation. In writing Living in the Last Days, Carol McCormick seeks to provide clarity and guidance by linking the predictions of the past with current events. The underlying theme behind the prophecies is well known. It symbolizes the final clash between good and evil, with the return of Jesus heralding a new golden era. There will be a time of Tribulation, a Judgement Day, and the final battle of Armageddon. Despite the hope provided by the Rapture, which will uplift Christians, it will not be an easy journey. Even committed Christians will be tested and may be subjected to humiliation, hardship, and even death during the Tribulation. The rise of the Antichrist and the Mark of the Beast is dealt with in detail, with new insights provided. A stern warning is sounded that a new world government is being formed with a 2030 target date to impose what the author refers to as The Great Reset, which will require the digital chipping of individuals and the erosion of freedom. Signs that humanity is entering the Last Days abound and are evaluated in detail, with advice on how to achieve eternal life through Jesus.

Living in the Last Days is an in-depth analysis of the available Christian literature on the subject, backed by considerable research and some fresh interpretations of the scriptures. Internationally acclaimed author Carol McCormick underlines the traditional wisdom of Christian teachings while relating them to present worldwide political and spiritual trends. There will be false prophets. The information regarding The Great Reset and its sinister agenda is a significant departure from the conventional approach to End Times predictions. This is highly relevant as digital technology, smart bank cards, and a host of electronic devices already enable intrusive surveillance and allow the tracking and control of individuals. Further danger threatens in the form of a one-world government, a single world currency, and combined religions, which will undermine traditional Christian beliefs and suppress opposition. These modern phenomena are compared to biblical predictions and a remarkable match is apparent, sounding an early warning of troubled times ahead. Christians will have to stand by their beliefs and preparation is essential. The book is aimed at a wider audience than practicing Christians and the author reminds readers that it is for all people, particularly the lost.

Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite

In the Last Danann by Victoria Saccenti, we meet an eons-old Tuatha Dé Warrior, Kailen. We see short memories starting in Thebes, Southern Egypt, 1000BC, when he visits Khnurn, a wizard charged with keeping the universe's balance. Kailen cannot join his people as they leave the earthly plane but has been given orders that occupy him for millennia. Khnurn assures him that he will find someone to fill his heart. In one of the many battles Kailen faces with his Masters, the Westerbergs, his beloved Nadrine is killed. Kailen believes his heart will never again belong to someone. When a shocking kidnapping occurs, Kailen must team up with Khnurn's apprentice Talaith. Neither of them ever thought they would ignite such intense feelings of love and protection for each other. However, her unknown origins still hang over them as the couple joins the other Titanians in a fight against two very evil death sorcerers.

The Last Danann by Victoria Saccenti is an exquisitely written piece of literature with exceptional descriptions and lavishly chosen words to convey the sense of awe inspired by the characters in the novel. The world of the supernaturals - superimposed and woven through the ordinary world - is exquisitely done. It leaves the reader dumb-struck at the beauty of the world seen through supernatural eyes. The diminished use of eroticism substantiates the novel's plot and balances the story as it unfolds. A well-crafted world supports the storyline. This is an excellent book. The language and tone are of the highest standard and add to the powerful characters that walk through the halls of the Chronicles. Enough background detail of previous events is given so that The Last Danann can be read either as a stand-alone or as part of the Titanian Chronicles.

Reviewed by Heather Osborne for Readers' Favorite

The Last Daughter by Belle Ami is the harrowing story of the author’s mother during World War II in Europe. Dina had always lived comfortably in the loving embrace of her family. However, when Germany invaded Poland, all of that changes. Forced to leave her beloved home, her family is relocated into the Glinice ghetto. Gone are the carefree days of her childhood, replaced by fear and hunger, and hard work. Still, Dina’s family never gives up, even when they are deported to camps, bit by bit, their fates unknown. As Dina strives to survive the unthinkable, will she be able to keep her faith and make it through hell on earth?

A fantastic tale of perseverance, The Last Daughter by Belle Ami is an inspirational retelling of survival. So much is put on Dina and her family and she never gives up, constantly wishing for a better future. The novel is a stark account of her experiences during the Holocaust, without shying away from the horrors around her and all the other victims of the Nazis' atrocities. Yet, in the darkness, elements of hope keep Dina going. I particularly admired how Dina reflected back on the inspiration of her parents, using their strength and wisdom to survive, along with the unexpected kindness of strangers. It’s so important we never forget these parts of history and Dina’s experiences in the face of pure evil. I have read many memoirs of people who survived the Holocaust and The Last Daughter definitely is worth checking out for historical readers.

Reviewed by Sefina Hawke for Readers' Favorite

The Last Stop by Patricia Street is a memoir that would most appeal to a diverse audience of parents and professionals looking to assist others dealing with addictions and who do not mind some explicit language. Patricia lost her son David to addiction and then later to death when he passed away at the young age of thirty-nine. Patricia shares the story of her struggles with her son, who almost became a stranger to her due to his habit. This raw account of the pain-filled impact of addiction is designed to help others cope with the pain of having a loved one who struggles with dependency.

The Last Stop by Patricia Street is a well-written account that took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride as I followed Patricia while she dealt with her son’s manipulation and deceit following his drug addiction. As a psychology professional, I found this book to be a treasure trove of information on the realities of addiction. It proved more useful to me than any textbook in understanding the emotional impact and the toll it takes on loved ones. I felt connected to Patricia throughout her journey and I could not help but feel her pain and loss. I enjoyed the second part of the book, which featured David’s writings. Reading his essays and poems, his talent and his writing made me feel his loss quite keenly. Overall, while this book was not always easy to read due to the pain within its pages, I feel that it has helped me to become a better psychology professional and that I am now better equipped to help those touched by addiction in their lives.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

The Last Triceracorn (Book One) by Vincent M. Miceli is a young adult fantasy adventure that reminds us why we invest in mythical creatures possessing noble qualities and supernatural abilities that cannot be visualized. But it really doesn’t matter because, for us, they embody ideals that we look up to that we’ve never outgrown. Such is the case of this new magical creature called the Triceracorn, the most magical creature in the galaxies which the villain, Gauro, is running after. Triceracorns are the ultimate righteous creatures that give the planets their rightful balance. Having said that, you know what happens if such creatures fall into the wrong hands, and the last one of its kind becomes a very priceless possession. Sisters Matea and Luciana will be involved in a dangerous rescue mission where the balance of the universe is at stake. They will have to forge an alliance with other gifted kids from different parts of the world to survive and stop a menacing evil.

While the Triceracorn is the center of this book’s theme, it’s about brave and bright kids who come together to pull off a common goal of saving the galaxies. The Last Triceracorn embodies the kind of innocence and idealism that belongs to curious and imaginative minds—something that we have all experienced and perhaps you will continue to do so. Vincent M. Miceli ramps up the young adult fantasy genre with a well-crafted and stirring plot. The Triceracorn reminds me of the Chinese mythical creature, qilin, which was used in the Fantastic Beasts film series. Reading the first page of this adventure tale immediately made me decide to invest in this new series. It’s an exploit fraught with dangers for the young protagonists, yet it feels reassuring. I loved the way Miceli allows his characters to explain jargon without sounding like they are lecturing. I highly recommend this book to lovers of young adult fantasy for its imaginary vision with a modern style appeal.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

The Last Ark: Lost Secrets of Qumran by Guy Morris is book two in the SNO Chronicles series. Derek Taylor is on the run. Hunted by a murderous cult, he is searching for SLVIA, a DARPA AI that has escaped. Meanwhile, the US national defense systems are being undermined by a new kind of hack, and, while Taylor knows he should be looking into it, he needs to find the third temple, a temple SLVIA warned existed. His journey leads him to the Vatican and on to Israel, where he finds a copper scroll leading to Moses’ Ark, lost for over 2500 years. In Washington, Jenn Scott’s father is killed by one of Putin’s men, and when she is kidnapped, Taylor faces an impossible choice. Whichever way he turns, things are about to change forever.

The Last Ark: Secrets of Qumran by Guy Morris is a fast-paced thriller packed with action in a fantastic plot. There are several stories here, all part of a bigger plot that our main protagonist must uncover, and each thread is woven steadfastly into the intricate story. The dialogue is tight and engaging, not filled with unnecessary fluff, and it all adds to the story. The characters are engaging, likable, and easy to relate to and you’ll soon find yourself rooting for Derek Taylor. It’s often difficult to balance action and violence in a thriller – this one has the perfect mix and is one of the most thrilling, heart-pounding stories I have ever read. Although this is part of a series, I believe it could be read as a standalone story. If you love high-action political thrillers, you will love this story.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Last Football Player is a work of fiction in the science fiction, sports fiction, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author John Blossom. In this inventive and immersive work filled with great sci-fi concepts and plenty of action, we meet our protagonist, Dude McPherson, who was a star athlete until his father’s tech developments threatened to put a stop to the game he loves. As this near-future novel explores the dangers of over-protectiveness and over-reliance on technology, Dude and his friends take to the lab to examine the spirit of football and find a balance between traditional sport and the possibilities of technology that lie ahead.

Author John Blossom puts a new, original spin on sports fiction in this exciting teen adventure novel, and I don’t think I’ve ever read anything quite like these concepts before. Whether it’s the sporting side or the science fiction elements that appeal to you in this tale, the merging of the two brings an accomplished sense of balance to the storyline, and it’s interesting to see traditional and modern issues clash, both on the field and in the laboratory. Dude is a suitable hero for the piece as a star player, but he’s not alone, and I was impressed with the diverse range of other characters who take part in the action and the time and care that the author takes to ensure they are fully developed as real people you can root for. Overall, I’d definitely recommend The Last Football Player to fans of engaging sports fiction with clever concepts and great character development.

Reviewed by Ann Linus for Readers' Favorite

In a distant kingdom ruled by the Great Mouse-King, life is as great as it can be. The kingdom is blessed with a special tree that provides abundant food and a wise king who leads all the creatures with love and kindness. One day, the king’s beloved daughter Journee and her friends set out on a midnight exploration of the orchard where a special Zoe-Chai tree is planted, against the Mouse-King’s wish. In the orchard, they have a strange encounter that leaves them distressed and racing to the king for help. Meanwhile, the king receives more distressing news from Mr. Badger, who lives on the outskirts; an army of alien bats has invaded the kingdom, and the last words Mr. Badger heard from their vicious commander were, “Take me to the tree!” The Last Storyteller by Catherine Ann Russell is a story about love, courage, and unity.

Some books call for your attention when you’re away from them; this book was one of those. I was hooked from beginning to end. The story was filled with expectations and disappointments, and it unfolded interestingly from two directions, which heightened the suspense. The characters had distinct personalities, and their conversations were engaging. This book exceeded my expectations. Although The Last Storyteller is the final book in the Pearl of Wisdom series by Catherine Ann Russell, it can be read as a standalone.

The narration of this audiobook was by Jeffrey Machado, and he did an excellent job. The narration captured all the emotions and characters, and it was flawless. I was especially impressed with how the narrator could imitate all the animals’ sounds and maintain dialogue while sounding like each animal. This is supposed to be a children’s book, but I recommend it to anyone who likes a good adventure story.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Last Ranger is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres, and is the opening novel of the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, explicit language, and some complex racial themes. Penned by author J.D.L. Rosell, we are introduced to Leiyn ‘Firebrand,’ a skilled ranger of the Titan Wilds, who faces betrayal and tragedy when her lodge is attacked. Vowing vengeance for her fallen comrades, Leiyn discovers an innate power within her, a force she must embrace to fulfill her duty. As she navigates a world threatened by colossal spirit creatures called titans, Leiyn's journey becomes an epic tale of resilience, magic, and the weight of duty. The story weaves themes of friendship, vengeance, and wonder, creating a captivating narrative set against the backdrop of a richly imagined fantasy world.

Author J.D.L. Rosell has crafted an immersive experience into a world of magic and danger, with accomplished storytelling that brings Leiyn's character to life. The narrative is filled with detailed worldbuilding and atmospheric touches to set the emotional mood, and the pacing unfolds with a perfect blend of all-out action and quieter emotional scenes. The concept of titans and the mystical powers Leiyn possesses adds a lot of intrigue and unpredictability to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy, where familiar concepts are given a unique new twist. The inclusion of original illustrations by artist Félix Ortiz enhances the visual experience, providing a vivid and gorgeous portrayal of the characters and their adventures to awaken the imagination. Overall, this first book in the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series promises a thrilling journey for those who enjoy tales of rangers, magic, and the enduring spirit of heroes, and I would highly recommend The Last Ranger for epic fantasy fans everywhere.