Blog Archives
The Ebon Knight
The Ebon Knight by James Wood is a captivating foray into a world brimming with magic, chaos, and the unexpected alliances that emerge from the shadows of war. This novel weaves a tale around its two central characters, Kelso Hart and Ava Pentran. Kelso, an outcast Knight of the Light, and Ava, the youngest Princess of the Dark, form an unlikely alliance against a malevolent new force threatening their mystical realm. Wood’s narrative is both gripping and sophisticated, drawing readers in from the very first page and holding their attention through a journey filled with suspense and intrigue.
Kelso Hart, armed with the sentient sword Argenta, carries the burden of a cursed legacy, while Ava Pentran, exiled and pursued, wields her formidable battle prowess alongside a secret tied to the Furies. Their quest to combat a sinister virus transforming individuals into malevolent beings challenges the established dichotomy of Light and Dark, compelling readers to reevaluate their perceptions of heroism and villainy.
James Wood excels in both plot development and character exploration, presenting a story that is as action-packed as it is profound. The Ebon Knight masterfully explores themes of trust, survival, and the grey areas of morality, making it a standout in the urban fantasy genre. The novel’s backdrop is richly constructed, providing an immersive experience that enhances the narrative’s depth. Wood’s ability to blend elements of fantasy with heart-pounding suspense is remarkable, ensuring that this book is a thrilling read from start to finish. The novel strikes a fine balance between humor and darkness, featuring meticulously crafted battle scenes that resonate long after the book is closed. Wood’s exploration of the blurred lines between the forces of Light and Dark mirrors the complexities of our own world, adding a layer of relatability to the fantastical setting. His writing style is a fusion of dark undertones and sharp wit, creating a narrative that appeals to a broad range of readers, including those new to the urban fantasy genre.
The Ebon Knight is a stellar addition to the urban fantasy landscape. This book is recommended for genre enthusiasts and anyone who values a narrative woven with humor, darkness, and surprising turns. With this novel, James Wood has crafted an enthralling world and established himself as an author to watch for future masterpieces.
Pages: 423 | ASIN : B0CLS6VT6T
The Apocryphal of Lazarus
In The Apocryphal of Lazarus, the protagonist, Lazarus, presents a compelling journey through pivotal moments in human history. His unique perspective, being both a witness and participant in these events due to his ageless nature, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative. Lazarus’ dual roles as a pastor and physician enable him to intertwine spiritual guidance with a healer’s compassion, enriching the story with depth and complexity.
The book effectively explores the emotional and psychological toll of Lazarus’ immortality, particularly the challenges of perpetually restarting his life in new places. This aspect resonated deeply with me as a reader, bringing a poignant understanding of the hardship and weariness that accompanies an endless existence. Lazarus’ character development is a standout feature, evolving from his experiences and interactions. His journey is marked by compassion and a caring presence, making him a memorable and relatable character. The book’s thematic exploration of life, rebirth, and the human condition is thought-provoking and consistently engaging. The story’s length is amply justified by its rich narrative and historical depth, offering an expansive scope that enriches the reader’s understanding of Lazarus’ journey. This detail allows for a comprehensive exploration of the character’s experiences, enhancing the overall depth and enjoyment of the book.
The Apocryphal of Lazarus is a commendable addition to the historical fiction genre. Its unique blend of historical context with a timeless character study makes it a recommendable read for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling within this genre.
Pages: 599 | ASIN : B09GGCSXGW
Pushing the Boundaries and Raising the Stakes
Death or Volentus follows a vampire and necromancer who are nemesis who join forces to rescue a woman from the hands of a malevolent queen. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was always intrigued by the idea of a supernatural detective who could raise the dead to obtain the answers to various crimes, whether they be from the deceased victim or the criminal. However, the danger of such a figure turning rogue and raising the dead to enact his/her designs would always be a concern, such as we saw here with Volentus. My overarching thought was: Wouldn’t it be interesting to read a story where the villain must rescue the hero this time – and that hero being the person who put that villain in check? Each character involved would be somewhat conflicted, making for an exciting drama. Adding in the vampire who must rely on Volentus to save the heroine he loves creates that perfect formula.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
First, I needed to think of a place brimming with peril to set the stage for the crux of the plot. The only reason our forces would ever consider employing the aid of the hero’s nemesis would be to navigate a realm too dangerous for anyone else except for a villainous figure, in this case, Volentus, who had expertise in all things dead and undead. Establishing a steampunk-like city where the governing body is somewhat corrupt in its own way proved to be a jarring contrast to the dreaded Land of Wilted Roses. A gilded dystopian city parallel to a dark, forbidden land of doom. It just reads great.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I’ve always enjoyed pushing the boundaries and raising the stakes of what dark fantasy and horror could be for readers who have read and experienced so much of it already. Making these elements feel real, yet magical, pulls us into the world before we even know we’ve become invested. I want my readers to feel like they’re in the story, that they’re a part of the action. The haunting themes make for a great setting for characters who have relatable motivations. Every reader wants to escape in fiction. So, I endeavor to provide them with an escape they won’t soon forget.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
What a fortunate question. I have already begun planning the sequel and have settled on a great new setting for our characters where the previous tale left off. Be on the lookout for Death or Volentus: Macabre Masquerade before the Summer arrives! Intrigue abounds when a king invites Volentus and other powerful figures to a summit for peace disguised as a masquerade ball where everyone involved suspects a trap.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
A perfect read for fans of gothic horror, steampunk, and dark fantasy, Death or Volentus tells the story of a villainous figure who is convinced to embark on a perilous mission to rescue his nemesis from a wicked cult. Volentus is a necromancer able to raise corpses and command them to do his bidding, even leading vast undead armies. While he often plays by his own rules, Volentus finds himself partnering with a skilled vampire who would do anything to save the woman he loves, including slicing off Volentus’s head at the slightest hint of betrayal. However, as the formidable pair quickly discover, their assignment will be anything but what they expected.
Written by the award-winning author of The Angels of Resistance, The Redeem the Knight Trilogy, and Torn Asunder.
Death or Volentus
In Death or Volentus, readers are plunged into a thrilling narrative where Dragan Cellis, a psychic vampire, and Volentus, a necromancer, forge an unlikely alliance. Set against the backdrop of the Land of Wilted Roses, this dark fantasy tale unfolds with Dragan needing Volentus’ expertise to rescue his beloved, Alicent Vale, from the clutches of the malevolent Queen Malkira of Tenebris. The queen’s ambition to amass an army of ‘brands’ – individuals with unique powers – by converting them through torture and manipulation forms the crux of the story.
The dynamic between the characters is compelling. Dragan, initially driven by love, must confront the physical dangers of their mission and the ethical implications of their actions. Volentus, on the other hand, undergoes a transformation. His initial desire for revenge, stemming from a past encounter with Alicent that led to his imprisonment, evolves as he begins to see her in a new light. The narrative deftly illustrates how exposure to Alicent’s suffering alters his perspective, shifting his motivations from vengeance to protection. The plot thickens when it’s revealed what Malkira’s true intentions are. This development elevates the stakes, introducing a sense of urgency and danger as the characters find themselves trapped and facing an overwhelming threat.
The book engages readers from the outset with its action-oriented opening, quickly establishing the central conflict and the unique world it inhabits. The interplay between Alicent, Dragan, and Volentus adds depth to the narrative, ensuring that readers remain invested in their fates. The story’s pacing is well-managed, balancing action with character development and leading to a series of twists that keep the reader eagerly turning the pages.
This novel is a compelling read for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural thrillers. Its blend of action, character dynamics, and a richly imagined world makes it a standout in the genre. The concise nature of the story ensures a fast-paced and eventful experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an engaging and immersive narrative.
Pages: 203 | ASIN : B0CK15XBLW
Baja Silver
In the annals of maritime history, Captain Frances Drake stands as a towering figure famed for his seizure of the Cacafuego in 1579. His knack for plundering treasures from rival vessels sets the tone for a narrative woven centuries later in modern-day California in Timothy A. Brown’s Baja Silver.
Enter Dani, a tenacious sex worker navigating a world fraught with challenges. Facing constant threats from her overbearing pimp, she discovers an ally in TommyLynn, an androgynous colleague with a deeply scarred past, marred by abuse and prejudice.
In a parallel narrative, the author introduces us to Sam White, the altruistic director of St. Frances Village, a beacon of hope for the downtrodden. As TommyLynn champions the cause of the LGBTQ community, especially those ostracized by their families, their paths inevitably cross with Sam’s. However, danger lurks in the shadows. Trixie’s relentless pursuit of control over Dani takes a dark turn, ensnaring them in a sinister world of human trafficking and crime syndicates. As fate would have it, Sam and TommyLynn find themselves embroiled in a quest, not only to rescue victims but also to unearth a buried treasure and dismantle the trafficking network.
What sets this novel apart is its character development. Sam emerges as the embodiment of selflessness, a pillar of strength for the vulnerable, balanced beautifully by his unwavering commitment as a husband. Dani, characterized by her indomitable spirit, is accentuated by TommyLynn’s loyalty and camaraderie. The narrative delves into the grim realities of prostitution and trafficking, painting a vivid picture of a world where the vulnerable are often exploited by the remorseless.
The narrative occasionally veers into profanity I feel is rather excessive, and I think some emotional depictions come across as somewhat overwrought. However, the essence of Timothy A. Brown’s Baja Silver retains its magnetic pull. It is a recommended read for readers of contemporary fiction that delves into the intricate layers of human sexuality and resilience.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B09Q3MKQNJ
Go Where The Story Takes You
Sunwalkers follows a teenage vampire being raised by human parents who meets another vampire like her and wants to learn about his world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve always loved vampire books and movies but in them vampires always just existed. I wanted to delve into the origins of vampires and how they came to be.
Lilly has only ever known the human world, and now has a chance to learn about her Sunwalker side but struggles with what this means. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I think we’ve all felt different at some point in our life or on the outside. We all have different strengths and weakness but there is a place for everyone. Lilly’s differences may be a little extreme, but she still has to work through them, figuring out who she is and where she belongs, just like we all do.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
This is the only series I wrote a basic outline for. But as I wrote new ideas came to me and some characters took different paths then I had originally planned. Sometimes you have to go where the story takes you.
Can you tell us where the book goes and where we’ll see the characters in the next book?
It’s hard to share too much without going into spoilers. But in the following two books Lilly has to take a good look at the world and what she hopes it can be. She has to decide what she can do to help precipitate change while dealing with sabotage and deceit from within her community.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Lilly is a sunwalker—a vampire born from human parents, able to walk in the daylight. She lives life as human, hiding her true identity from all those around her.
One evening, she comes to the rescue of her best friend, Lex, as a vampire is about to make a meal out of her. Lilly is drawn to him, despite her desire to loathe him for almost murdering Lex, as he is the first of her kind she has ever met.
As the vampire, Tread, begins to open Lilly’s eyes to a world she has never known, Lilly must decide where she belongs. After she is betrayed by the person she loves most, Lilly is forced to submerge herself entirely in the vampire world, only to discover that Tread has a secret so shocking it could destroy them all.
Sunwalker (Sunwalker Trilogy Book 1)
Sunwalkers by S.T. Sanchez unveils a captivating narrative, weaving a tale nestled within the rich tapestry of a post-apocalyptic world where the enigmatic unknown looms large. The protagonist, Lilly, is not your typical teenager navigating through the ruins of a shattered world. Concealed beneath her ostensibly mundane existence lies a secret that shapes her very essence: she is a vampire, born of human parents, a secret intricately kept by her determined mother, who has ventured to significant lengths to nurture and teach her human ways.
As Lilly ambles through her adolescence parallel to her peers, an encounter with another Sunwalker – a handsome vampire – steers her life onto an unforeseen path. Laden, with questions yet shrouded with fear derived from the knowledge that vampires pose a formidable threat, Lilly remains hesitant to let him into her world. His potent curiosity about her, coupled with a dangerous allure, propels him to initiate a dialogue. Readers are left on the precipice of intrigue – will Lilly open her world to him despite the lurking fears for the safety of her loved ones?
The concept of Sunwalkers is impeccably imaginative and refreshingly novel. The origination of vampires in this desolate world distinguishes itself starkly from familiar narratives and presents a fresh idea – the birth of a vampire from human parents, a plot twist that notably enhances the storyline. This innovative concept has kindled my curiosity regarding subsequent books and the unfolding of possible new themes.
Lilly emerges as a compelling character, encapsulating a blend of natural curiosity and compassion throughout the narrative. Lex, her best friend, brings a vibrant and supportive dynamic to the story, characterized by her confidence, outspokenness, and fierce protectiveness of Lilly. Tread, meanwhile, contributes a fascinating layer to the story with his swift and positive character development, offering a refreshing pace contrasted against other narratives. Elaine’s character navigates through unexpected terrains of motherhood, presenting astonishing actions towards Lilly that left me stunned, albeit with a tinge of disconcert.
The storyline seamlessly weaves together its components, interlacing shocking moments with an enthralling narrative pull that beckons the reader into its depths from the opening chapter. Sunwalkers is a fervent recommendation for readers intrigued by a narrative that explores the genesis of vampires from humans, born through a fascinating genetic mutation, offering a truly unique conceptual perspective.
Pages: 277 | ASIN : B071VDSTS7
Lottie Beauchamp’s War
Lottie Beauchamp’s War by Paula Napier offers an engrossing narrative that follows the life of the fictional character Lottie Beauchamp during the tumultuous times of World War II. The novel is meticulously divided into three distinct segments, each focusing on a different phase of Lottie’s life and her evolving roles during the war.
In the opening part, readers meet Lottie as a student in Cambridge, consumed by her studies in archeology. Yet, her academic pursuits feel hollow and insignificant against the backdrop of a world at war. Lottie’s aspiration to actively contribute to the war effort is realized when she joins the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, marking her first substantial involvement in the conflict.
The second part delves into her newfound life as a pilot officer in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. Though a remarkable feat for a woman at the time, Lottie’s capabilities are constantly underestimated, with her responsibilities limited to flying smaller planes. Her journey towards piloting larger aircraft and earning the respect of her peers mirrors the broader struggle women faced during the war.
The final section of the novel follows Lottie as a dedicated member of the resistance movement in France. The portrayal of her relentless efforts to prove her worth in a predominantly male-dominated environment is both captivating and thought-provoking.
Napier skillfully uses Lottie’s story to shed light on the challenges women encountered during World War II. By highlighting the discrimination and prejudice they faced, the author emphasizes the grit and determination women displayed to gain recognition and respect in a field traditionally closed to them.
Lottie’s character development is crafted with nuance and care, transforming her from a mere observer of war to a determined leader in the fight against the Germans. While Lottie’s role in the war is vital, her actual influence and control over events are limited. Her tasks primarily involve piloting for drop-offs and pick-ups, and as a member of the resistance, her position can be somewhat passive at times.
Lottie Beauchamp’s War is a compelling read that provides an insightful look into the life of a young woman navigating the complexities of a world at war. It is not merely a fictional biography but a resonant piece that echoes the trials and triumphs of women during an era when their contributions were often underestimated and overlooked. This novel is a testament to women’s resilience and a valuable addition to the literature of World War II.
Pages: 411 | ASIN : B0C9MLHG1V
