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The Great Christmas Escape
The Great Christmas Escape by Janae Haddad is a whimsical holiday adventure filled with charming characters, unexpected twists, and the festive magic of Christmas. Set in the enchanting Evergreen Hollow, the story begins when the animal residents find themselves trapped inside a magical snow globe. To escape and save Christmas, they must overcome a series of imaginative challenges. From solving riddles posed by Lord Lollipop to navigating a candy cane maze guarded by a peppermint dragon, the animals embark on a journey that tests their courage, wit, and teamwork.
I was immediately drawn to the rich world-building. Haddad paints Evergreen Hollow and its whimsical characters with vibrant detail. The opening scene, where squirrels knit scarves and owls wear pom-pom hats, sets the tone for a story that’s both enchanting and humorous. I loved Felix, the mischievous fox, who added comedic relief even in moments of tension. Early in the story he had me laughing out loud, yet his bravery during the snow globe challenges made him a standout. The pacing was another strength. Each chapter introduced a new obstacle, keeping me on the edge of my seat. The riddles and tasks were cleverly crafted—especially the Phantom Cookie challenge, which felt both absurdly fun and surprisingly intense. I could almost smell the whispering vanilla and hear the giggling batter. These fantastical elements gave the story a playful charm, but at times, the complexity of the tasks, like the intricate mechanisms of the Clock Tower, felt slightly overwhelming. I found the riddles to be creative and fun. The conclusion left me satisfied and reflective. Without spoiling too much, the theme of teamwork and belief in the Christmas spirit resonated strongly. Each character’s arc, from Beatrix’s determination to Oliver’s cautious wisdom, culminated in a heartwarming finale. Haddad also weaves in subtle lessons about kindness, courage, and the importance of community, making this a great read for both children and adults.
The Great Christmas Escape is a delightful holiday tale perfect for readers who enjoy imaginative adventures and charming, anthropomorphic characters. It’s ideal for families looking to share a festive read-aloud or for anyone who enjoys the cozy magic of Christmas storytelling. The book is a heartwarming reminder of the magic that happens when we face challenges together—with a touch of humor and a sprinkle of holiday spirit.
Pages: 72 | ASIN : B0DKDMN9NT
A Christmas to Remember
T S James delivers a touching and enchanting tale in his latest book, A Christmas to Remember. This heartwarming story captures the essence of the holiday season through the adventures of two young girls, Lily and Sophie, in the days leading up to Christmas. Lily, a steadfast believer in magic and Santa Claus, finds her faith tested by Sophie, whose doubts stem from the cynicism of her mother. In a beautiful act of selflessness, Lily wishes for Sophie to rediscover her belief in magic, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. On December 23rd, the girls receive an extraordinary invitation to the North Pole to meet Santa himself. Before their meeting, they encounter Jingles, a lively elf who assigns them a series of tasks to inspire the residents of Santclausby and reignite the true spirit of Christmas. Through these adventures, Lily and Sophie learn timeless lessons about friendship, selflessness, and the joy of believing.
While this book is written for children, it holds immense appeal for adults as well. The story invites readers to reflect on the magic of the season and the importance of preserving the wonder and innocence of childhood. Anthony James masterfully captures the emotions of his young protagonists, weaving their simple yet profound perspectives with themes of gratitude, connection, and belief. Lily and Sophie’s deep appreciation for their friendship and those around them is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a renewed sense of gratitude for the people in their own lives. The book also thoughtfully addresses many of the curious questions children often have about Santa Claus, such as how gifts are made and delivered in a single night. These delightful explanations add a layer of realism to the magical narrative, making it both entertaining and educational for young readers. For adults, it serves as a poignant reminder to nurture a child’s sense of wonder and to find magic in everyday moments.
Perfect for the holiday season, A Christmas to Remember is a captivating story for the whole family. Its themes of belief, appreciation, and the enduring magic of Christmas make it an ideal read for creating cherished memories together.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0DKZSBPJ8
A Most Unusual Quest! The Misadventures of Ka-Ron the Knight – Book One
Allison Church’s A Most Unusual Quest is a whirlwind of adventure, humor, and heartfelt exploration. Brimming with fantasy elements like elves, dwarves, wizards, and vampires—not to mention far deadlier creatures—the novel blends satirical humor with profound themes of love, loss, and gender identity. Church weaves a chaotic yet captivating tale that keeps readers on their toes from start to finish. The story follows Ka-Ron, a legendary knight renowned for defending the kingdom from the formidable Xow. Feared and respected, Ka-Ron’s reputation is unshakable—until an encounter with the vengeful Wicca master Kai changes everything. After dismissing Kai’s daughter, inadvertently leading to her death, Ka-Ron becomes the target of a cruel curse. Transformed into the most beautiful woman alive, she must set off with her loyal squire, Jatel, on a quest to find Kai and restore her true self.
Their journey is far from simple. As Ka-Ron and Jatel face perilous obstacles and forge unlikely alliances, their relationship deepens in unexpected ways. Feelings emerge, complicating their mission and adding emotional depth to their adventure. Church masterfully balances this personal growth with the novel’s fantastical chaos, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The humor throughout is sharp and engaging, making even the most outrageous moments relatable. Beneath the satire lies a skillful examination of real-world issues, deftly approached through the lens of fantasy. The story’s twists and turns defy predictability, ensuring that readers are consistently hooked, eager to uncover what lies on the next page.
A Most Unusual Quest is a standout in the fantasy genre. Fans of action-packed adventures with a satirical edge will find this novel irresistible. As the first book in a series, it sets a high bar, delivering an experience as unique as it is thrilling. Adult readers especially will appreciate the blend of humor, depth, and boundless imagination that Church brings to the table. This is a tale that refuses to let you put it down—a truly remarkable read.
Pages: 558 | ASIN : B0DJ25TH2H
Partners in Time Meet A Boy Called Romulus
Nicholas Hodgson’s Partners in Time Meet A Boy Called Romulus is a captivating historical fiction tale that blends time travel, friendship, and the bittersweet allure of second chances. As the second installment in the Partners in Time series, it picks up with Harry and Jett, whose chaotic and accidental ventures through time have landed them in yet another adventure. This time, they encounter Romulus Augustus, the exiled and forgotten last Emperor of Rome, who has inexplicably found himself lost in 1942 England. What follows is a thrilling collision of timelines and a heartfelt exploration of power, identity, and loyalty.
Hodgson’s story is a fusion of nostalgia and mystery, weaving the grandeur of history with the wonder of time’s intricate possibilities. Hodgson uses time travel not as a mere plot device but as a means to explore themes of belonging, loss, and redemption. The story’s heart lies in its characters. Romulus, the boy Emperor, is a deeply haunting figure marked by loneliness, defiance, and the crushing weight of his fallen empire. His quiet strength and vulnerability leave a lasting impression, making it impossible not to feel his pain. Harry and Jett, in contrast, bring a sense of grit, determination, and relatable humor, serving as the perfect counterbalance to Romulus’s solemnity. Together, the trio navigates the complexities of their unlikely alliance, creating moments of humor, tension, and deep connection.
The prose is dynamic, tumbling forward with a lively rhythm that captures the urgency of the plot while pausing just long enough to savor its emotional depth. Hodgson’s ability to balance historical authenticity with modern sensibilities is impressive. The dialogue, though occasionally a bit contemporary for a historical setting, brims with wit and relatability, making the characters feel alive and engaging.
The fast-paced plot keeps readers on edge, plunging them into a series of high-stakes adventures while never losing sight of the personal journeys at its core. The action-packed moments are tempered by thoughtful introspection, ensuring that the story resonates on an emotional level. Though the pacing sometimes leaves little room for the narrative to breathe, this brisk tempo enhances the sense of urgency. The stakes feel personal, centering on three individuals trying to find their place across disparate worlds rather than on the grand machinations of history or empire.
Partners in Time Meet A Boy Called Romulus is a beautifully written and emotionally rich story. Hodgson handles historical detail with care, creating a world that feels both immersive and playful. This book is perfect for readers who long to dive into the margins of history while enjoying a fast-paced, imaginative adventure.
Pages: 304 | ASIN : B0DJWGSWJB
Treasure-Laden Expedition
The Lost Expedition follows a former Indian paratrooper who, while trying to enjoy a vacation in Dubrovnik, gets sucked into a web of danger involving war photographers, mystical relics, and Croatian warlords. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Being an Indian thriller novelist, I felt obliged to have an Indian protagonist in one of my thriller series. I wanted history and global locations. The series had to be educative, too, and preferably, have a link to India. And of course, the protagonist had to handle dangerous situations. Thus was born “Izak Kaurben.” Izak is a play on Isaac, and Kaurben is arguably an Indian-sounding name. Izak Kaurben is an elite paratrooper who, after a bitter experience in a mission (described in the series’ first book, RELIC) wanders the world. Croatia caught my eye as a good kick-off point for the series. So, Kaurben arrives in Croatia, hoping for a peaceful Eastern Europe backpacking experience, and instead, gets embroiled in trouble. THE LOST EXPEDITION follows closely after the events of RELIC. It is nearly a Part II because it closes plot lines opened in RELIC. However, readers have sufficient background to get into the story without reading RELIC. That being said, it’s a more enjoyable read in order.
The Malian Empire and Mansa Musa (the richest man ever) have been on my mind for years. The idea of a fabulous treasure-laden expedition across the Atlantic and the hunt for that treasure is a hook that never gets old. Linking it to Croatia and other key elements — like the ship graveyard in Nouadhibou and slave trade — was the hard part. But, if your review is any sign, I believe I’ve created a plausible and exciting scenario. 🙂
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
If you notice, each “part” of the story begins with a Cast of Characters. I felt it a good way to ease them into the picture without overwhelming the reader. I enjoyed writing Chief Inspector Goran. In RELIC, he is a no-nonsense ‘top cop.’ Here, I had fun ripping away his ‘work ethic’ yet keeping him honorable. Writing the Senegalese characters was challenging, because of the non-linear plot structure — it switches between present-day and flashbacks often — and determining the optimal way to plug them into the events of RELIC.
I felt that the action scenes were expertly crafted. I find that this is an area that can be overdone in novels. How did you approach this subject to make sure it flowed evenly?
I avoid unnecessary action. If my characters can flee instead of engaging, they will do that. Even in an action sequence, I do not labour with distance measurements, specifications of guns and bullets, and physics and chemistry. It has to be quick, like you — the reader — is watching it. This, keeps it light and fluffy, like a good pancake. 🙂
What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?
I’m on a book-a-year process. The next book comes out in 2025. Without revealing too much, Izak Kaurben will come face to face with a ghost from his past. And there’s a dollop of history, too.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | The Lost Expedition-Behind the Scenes | Amazon
“I need your help,” Goran says, as he unpacks a stash of weapons… “To commit a crime.”
Before Kaurben can stop him, Goran puts his plan into action: ambush a prisoner transport van and free a Senegalese gangster.
The Senegalese can help locate an old Russian fishing vessel. Aboard this ship is evidence that Goran seeks — at any cost — to solve a case that is deeply personal to him.
From Croatia to the world’s largest ship graveyard in Mauritania, to the Archivo General de Indias — the greatest repository of the Spanish Empire’s history in the New World, to the Caribbean Islands, Izak Kaurben is in a race against time and unknown adversaries…
Because the ship has another secret — one that will rewrite history and point the way to a fabled treasure horde.
Apocalyptic Adventures
Magic Revealed, Anarchy Reigns: Supernatural War Book 2 follows a community striving to rebuild after an EMP strike that has left the world in chaos and unrest, with crime, danger, and paranormal activity around every turn. What inspired the setup of your story?
I have read many different post-apocalyptic stories, and I felt that this idea had a little more relevance to what I like to read. I enjoy shooting and going on off-highway adventures with my Jeep and felt that including these into the story would help the storyline.
The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
Ruffus is the most fun to write for, and trying to imagine things from a dog’s perspective has been great. Trying to mimic what a dog will do in different situations is the most fun, and after having a few dogs and watching how they react to different voices and people, it has helped in the character development of Ruffus.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers of characters. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
We did not want the supernatural powers to be the main focus, though we wanted people to relate to that writing in the book while also pulling in the apocalyptic adventures. Pulling in the supernatural powers really happened by circumstance; as Larisa was editing and writing about the women, she added their supernatural powers to give them more action in the book rather than leaving them far in the background. This has really helped give the story more life and made it relatable to a larger audience.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes, book three is almost done and going through editing and beta and ARC readers at the moment. Book three expands the supernatural abilities of the team as they learn to accept these new abilities and learn how to harness these powers. TJ and the team are sent to Ely to rescue his parents, brother, and sister. Along the way, they have to engage in hostile threats to protect citizens of the towns along the way. Once they have saved the towns, they make new friends. The trip is not without sadness, and they lose one of their team members in the fight to save TJ’s family from a gang. The family members that return to Freedom Ranch also have an antagonist in the group that will test TJ and the group. There are multiple fights that highlight individual and group strengths in the story, and they learn how they all have to work together to be successful.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
At the end of book one, they receive distressing information from Kyle, revealing the catastrophic devastation across the country. They have a good stockpile of dried, canned, and long-term food to survive, though with each new individual that joins their community, the storage supplies dwindle. A question remains. Do they have the skills to survive what lies ahead?
The journey continues with TJ, his wife, Mel, and their beloved four-legged companion, Ruffus. They prepare a remembrance BBQ with the crew at the ranch for Memorial Day. But sometimes, the best-laid plans don’t work out as we hoped.
TJ and his team return to the Rubicon to rescue a friend and get more than they bargained for. Can they make it through the dangers and challenges that lie ahead? Will they make it back with no injuries or loss of life? Hostages? And who is holding people hostage?
While back at the ranch, Mel, Gail, and Shelly discover that everything they believe about their world is a lie. Magic explodes right along with the EMP, and the future is uncertain. How did this happen? What are they going to do? Does anyone else know what is going on?
There are no longer policing agencies. Gangs are taking over the local towns. No one is safe. How far will they go to maintain their rule?
This is our first venture into writing about a post-apocalyptic paranormal world. We combined our love of these two genres to write an amazing, fun-filled adventure.
Book three is in the works. It will introduce new characters and feature more magic, action, adventures, and fun surprises. We think there is something for everyone.
We wanted to expand Ruffus’s role in this post-apocalyptic, magical world, and we had so much fun with his chapters. We are looking forward to many more fun adventures with him.
There are big plans for this paranormal apocalyptic series. Hang on to your hats; it’s going to be a wild ride.
If you enjoy post-apocalyptic adventures, paranormal magic, and midlife heroes and heroines, this series is for you. If you don’t, give it a try. You might love it.
A World of Magic and Medieval Weapons
The Missing (Raven, Romda, and Ravai) follows three battle-weary heroes who are given a mission to uncover what is happening to the people in a town where one-third of the residents have gone missing. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My son came up with the bad guy in this book, and I turned it into a mystery of sorts because it made sense for this to be a cover-up. The person who does this is someone who would want to abduct people for a specific purpose. So, instead of a more action based story as I have done in the past, it works its way into a whodunit.
What was your inspiration for Raven, Romda, and Ravai’s relationship?
They are based on my son’s friendships. I wouldn’t say that they are a direct translation, but the uniqueness of individuals has always got my attention, and then I share it. To think about how normal people would navigate a world of magic and medieval weapons is highly interesting to me. The interplay between the three falls out of that. Plus, it allows for some good humorous moments as we have in our own lives.
What was one of the hardest parts in The Missing for you to write?
I don’t write mysteries where people get revealed at the end, but rather I have them found about two-thirds into the book, and then allow for a longer aftermath. So, I wasn’t quite sure when to do the reveal. I knew what I wanted to do post to that but didn’t want to rush it or make people feel like they have a long slog until the end of the book.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Thank you! I have been dropping small hints about the larger story arc that I want to tell. Within the next 3 books, that arc will ramp up considerably. I think people will be more comfortable with the characters and the settings such that they are ready for some serious danger coming.
Author Links: Website | X | Facebook | GoodReads
LITERARY TITAN 