Blog Archives
Sister Bevenlee and Mother of Pox
Charles Brass’s Sister Bevenlee and Mother of Pox, the third installment in The Tower of Sephalon series, immerses readers in a vibrant fantasy realm replete with mythical creatures and intricate challenges. In this tale, Sister Bevenlee faces the daunting task of confronting a menacing prophecy within the ancient walls of Sephalon. Her journey is fraught with internal struggles and external threats, including the sinister Mother of Pox and her deadly pandemic plot.
Brass skillfully weaves a narrative where Bevenlee’s quest for allies and self-discovery becomes crucial for Sephalon’s survival. The story offers a rich tapestry of dangerous dungeons, ancient ruins, and captivating characters, inviting readers to join Sister Bevenlee in her formidable quest against darkness while clinging to hope. The book’s substantial chapter count and dynamic plot shifts add to its richness, presenting an engaging challenge for readers. These elements, while occasionally demanding a bit more focus, ultimately contribute to the depth and enjoyment of the narrative. The protagonists’ struggles, discoveries, and conflicts are engaging, adding layers to the plot. The novel particularly excels in portraying epic battles, keeping readers invested and anticipating each new development in Sephalon’s saga.
Sister Bevenlee and Mother of Pox presents a richly woven tale of bravery set in a mesmerizing fantasy world. Its ability to balance complex characters and an engaging storyline makes it a commendable addition for those who appreciate the intricacies of fantasy literature.
Pages: 425 | ASIN : B0CQ83PRYF
A Beast Within
A Beast Within by Aidan Lucid intertwines the ordinary and the extraordinary, blending the lives of a quintessentially American family with a group of bank robbers, culminating in a suspenseful encounter with the supernatural. The narrative unfolds from two distinct perspectives, creating a dynamic and engaging storytelling experience. The book opens with a family – Malcolm, Helena, and David – who find themselves in a nightmarish scenario, encountering a werewolf on a desolate road. This traumatic experience serves as the reader’s introduction to the paranormal elements that permeate the story. The narrative then shifts to Jeremy, a character freshly released from prison. Despite his aspirations to leave his criminal past behind, he finds himself drawn back into that world by his friend Stephen and Stephen’s girlfriend, Natalie. This decision leads them to face unexpected and otherworldly consequences.
Lucid excels in pacing, crafting a narrative that is both brisk and captivating, making it an ideal read for those looking to immerse themselves in a story in one sitting. Jeremy, as a character, is particularly well-rendered, embodying a blend of vulnerability and resilience that makes him a compelling protagonist. His moral complexity adds depth to the narrative, presenting him as flawed yet fundamentally decent. The portrayal of trauma and its diverse impacts on individuals is a standout aspect of Lucid’s writing. The characters’ varied responses to their traumatic experiences are depicted with a sense of authenticity. For instance, while Jeremy grapples with lost self-confidence, Natalie turns to adrenaline-fueled activities for solace. These personal struggles inadvertently summon the supernatural forces that thrive on their fears and anxieties. While the novel effectively delves into these psychological themes, it leaves certain areas underexplored. The backstory involving Iraq, for instance, feels like a missed opportunity for deeper character development, particularly for Natalie, whose character at times feels limited in dimensionality. A more thorough exploration of this aspect could have enriched the narrative and offered a more nuanced understanding of her character.
A Beast Within is an engaging read for those who relish a blend of suspense, the supernatural, and psychological depth. Lucid’s storytelling is marked by a compelling plot twist that adds to the book’s overall entertainment value. Recommended for fans of thrillers and supernatural fiction, this novel is a testament to the exciting possibilities of genre blending.
Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0CJP9ND4N
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal
Chaos Ascending: A Feast of Betrayal, by R.C. Vielee, emerges as a compelling dark fantasy novel, intricately weaving themes of internal conflict, fate, and the interplay of parallel universes. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and spiritual turmoil, the story unfolds in a world teetering on the brink of collapse. The protagonist, Reyne, is thrust into a treacherous journey through the Void to Evidar, grappling with the burdens of deception and destiny while evading assassins. His story is a reflection of the broader narrative: the struggle of Tartica under Chancellor Tomelai’s oppressive rule and the looming threat of the Devil’s Blacksmith.
Reyne’s character is deftly portrayed, and his inner turmoil echoes the larger societal decay and the tension between conformity and rebellion. This complexity lends him a relatable depth, particularly in his struggles with moral ambiguity and trust, mirroring the human inclination to adapt for survival.
Mithany’s character complements this dynamic, offering a poignant exploration of guilt and honesty amid a web of deceit. The antagonist, known as the Devil’s Blacksmith, injects a palpable sense of dread into the narrative, embodying the despair and dangers lurking within the story’s universe. The juxtaposition of Evidar and Tartica skillfully illustrates the perpetual battle between darkness and light, resonating with the complexities and dualities of real life. Vielee’s novel is notable for its meticulous attention to detail and the seamless integration of sophisticated themes, especially the exploration of physics elements. The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.
Chaos Ascending is more than a fantasy novel; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition set against a richly imagined world. A highly recommended read for anyone seeking a compelling dark fantasy that will remain with the reader long after the last page is turned.
Pages: 609 | ASIN : B0CTGJW7Y4
The Scars of War
Trial of Roses follows a young man with a dream to learn magic and protect his homeland. To achieve his goals, he must overcome his enemies and personal demons. What inspired the setup of your story?
I was very much inspired by work such as My Hero Academia and you could say in general the genre of teenagers or young adults in a school type setting but with superpowers or magic involved. I have never done a story like this before so I thought it would be an interesting direction. On top of that I wanted to explore a few of the minor characters from the very first Pantheon book and this seemed like an excellent way to not only flesh them out but flesh out the entire Mystic Order as well. What started as just a short intro chapter turned into a whole little book to itself.
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?
That is an excellent question! I was very much inspired by the works of young adult fantasy books. There are many that are very famous such as the Harry Potter series. The idea of a school for magic was a very entertaining and endlessly interesting idea to explore. However, I knew it would need to have a distinct flavor to it and so immediately I decided to give it a higher stakes sort of feeling where students can and will die. Moreover, it would be set in its own distinct world that was separate from what we call the “real world.” On top of that I wanted to tie in the culture of the Sebelian people themselves. What started as a very simple story about a young teenager learning how to cast spells turned into a much deeper story about fighting personal demons and even coming to terms with the toxicity of one’s own culture. I find that the protagonists in this story must deal with the sins of the past that have led to scars on their own psyches. Some of them rise above it while others are consumed by it. It is why the trilogy itself is called the Law of Might, a concept which was discussed in many Pantheon books but is really delved into here.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There are many themes in this book that I wanted to touch on. Many are expanded upon in the follow-up books to Trial of Roses. The number one focus for me was the power of culture in a society. It is something every civilization has, otherwise it would not be a civilization at all. I wanted to show that even though a few things in the book would be frowned upon in our society, maybe even seen as barbaric, for the Sebelian people such things are the expected norms. Even when culture is self destructive, it has a tendency to live on.
Another topic that lingers in the background of these young characters is the lasting scars of war. In this particular way I was inspired by All Quiet on the Western Front, a certified classic in the war genre. I was reminded of the opening scene I read back in high school. The German students are in the prime of their life as they exit the education system, and a sa crescendo to this stage of their lives, their teacher of all people sells war to them like one would sell a movie ticket to a potential customer. In a similar fashion, the young characters in this book are enraptured by the idea of serving their country just as their fathers, mothers, and siblings did in the past War for Sebelian Liberation. This need to honor sacrifice and live up to family names is what drives these characters forward and sometimes into disastrous consequences. Jingoism is a force that is still around to this day and permeates many societies, especially the American one. I found it very important to make sure this issue was looked at through many different lenses as the story progressed.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Luckily I was able to release the entire Law of Might trilogy very close together! This was no easy feat as the story progressed and went from one short novella into a small trilogy that was more or less self-contained but still tied to the main Pantheon series. In the follow up story, Trial of the Lake, Sinhar will finally start learning how to work with magic and what it entails if he cannot keep up with the rest of his classmates. Just beneath the surface of all this, however, lies another battle. The Mystic Order has been around for generations and like any institution that has been around for that long it is riddled with its own secrets. Not only is there the threat of ostracization for those who do not fit within the mold of society, but there are also the secrets of those who now hold power and what they did to achieve it. The sequel will introduce new characters but will also explore ones who had minor roles in the main series and are more fleshed out here.
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The Law of Might novella trilogy serves as a prequel to the Pantheon series but also stands entirely on its own. Fans of adventure, fantasy, and horror will rejoice. Check out the series that has readers enthralled and coming back for more:
The Dark Witch
James Wood’s The Dark Witch, the second entry in The Ebon Knight Chronicles, continues the journey of Kelso Hart, the embattled Knight, and Ava Pentran, the youngest Princess of the Dark. This installment sees our protagonists navigating a treacherous world brimming with foes from various factions. The narrative picks up seamlessly from its predecessor, weaving an intricate plot that melds myth and folklore against an ominous, disaster-laden backdrop.
Wood’s adept storytelling is evident in his ability to balance humor, valiant exploits, and unyielding peril. This balance is enhanced by rich character development, particularly in the evolving dynamics between Ava and Kelso. The novel fits comfortably in the urban fantasy genre, offering readers a dark and captivating adventure. Wood’s craftsmanship shines in his realistic plot twists and portrayal of resilient characters, making The Dark Witch a compelling read that’s hard to put down.
The book is replete with action, heroism, and continuous danger, showcasing Wood’s narrative prowess. He skillfully infuses humor into the storyline, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying reading experience. The new and familiar characters are developed with care, fostering empathy and engagement. Urban fantasy fans will appreciate the underdog narrative, nuanced with romantic elements and an urban flair. As the story progresses, the plot gains momentum, introducing new characters and complexities. The presence of characters with hidden motives adds layers of mystery and excitement. Wood successfully continues to deliver an enthralling dark fantasy, expanding the narrative to include broader themes of conflict and morality.
The Dark Witch is an emotional rollercoaster, portraying a spectrum of feelings from despair to triumph. Wood’s vivid storytelling promises an immersive dark urban fantasy journey, leaving readers keenly awaiting the next chapter in The Ebon Knight Chronicles. This book is an excellent choice for readers looking to delve into a rich high fantasy series, promising more intriguing developments in future installments.
Pages: 369 | ASIN : B0CN4CHCQ1
Trial of Roses: A Dark Epic Fantasy Novella (Law of Might Book 1)
Trial of Roses, the inaugural installment in Joshua A. Landeros’s The Law of Might prequel trilogy, introduces readers to Sinhar, a young warrior with aspirations to join the Mystic Order. This pursuit is not just a personal ambition for Sinhar, who has been shaped by a lifetime under the specter of war, but also a commitment to safeguard his homeland. The narrative, which can be enjoyed independently or as a precursor to the Pantheon series, navigates the perilous trials Sinhar must endure, where the prospect of survival is uncertain.
Landeros masterfully creates a world brimming with magic and mystery, captivating the reader in a realm where every decision holds the weight of life and death. The novel skillfully draws one in with its initial chapters, setting a tone rich in promise and excitement. As the story unfolds, the focus shifts more towards advancing the overarching plot, a move that aligns with its role as a prequel. This narrative choice, while occasionally placing the characters in the backdrop, adds to the anticipation of how these characters will further develop and influence the world in the broader context of the series. The balance between character growth and plot progression is a delicate dance, and Trial of Roses intriguingly sets the stage for future explorations in this enchanting universe. This book is an engaging read, particularly for those seeking a fantasy novel that is both accessible and rich in story and lore. Landeros’s talent as a storyteller is evident, and there is a genuine intrigue to see how Sinhar’s journey evolves in subsequent books.
Trial of Roses is a captivating novel that is perfect for readers who love to explore the world of dark fantasy. Its intricate storyline and rich historical context make it a compelling read. The author, Landeros, has skillfully woven together a tale that is both imaginative and thought-provoking, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what he has in store for them in his future works.
Pages: 131 | ASIN : B09NZDQYYP
Nameless vs the Army of the Dead: Book one of the Nameless Saga
Set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Victorian era, Nameless vs. The Army of the Dead by Brett Comeau immerses readers in the beleaguered city of Geneva. Amidst the nightly terror inflicted by the enigmatic Darklings, who mercilessly target the impoverished, a unique hero emerges. This nameless, deformed youth, embodying resilience and bravery, stands as a beacon of hope during these harrowing times. Alongside two loyal companions, he confronts the Darklings, striving to unveil their sinister motives and protect the city.
Brett Comeau’s novel is a masterful blend of horror and adventure, paced with riveting momentum. The protagonist, though unnamed, captivates with his charismatic presence, making him a character readers will enthusiastically support. This narrative is a treasure for aficionados of the macabre, showcasing exemplary world-building skills and enthralling action sequences.
While primarily a young adult novel, this book ventures into the realms of Stephen King-esque gore and Gothic horror. The heart of the story lies in the profound friendship among the youthful trio, who display remarkable maturity and resolve in contrast to the ineffectual and divided adults of Geneva.
Comeau skillfully leads the narrative to a climactic unraveling of the mystery behind the Darklings’ reign of terror. The finale is brilliantly executed, leaving an indelible mark in the realm of young adult fiction with its ingenious and mind-bending resolution. Nameless vs. The Army of the Dead is not just a thrilling read but an exploration of courage, camaraderie, and the fight against overwhelming darkness.
Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0CQ4LQKXF
The Greys of Life
The Ebon Knight follows two adversaries, an outcasted Knight, and a brutal Princess, who are brought together to battle a third power, a virus, who threatens everything they both know. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The initial meeting between the Knight of the Light and the Princess of the Dark was based on a reoccurring dream I had over a span of close to ten years. In that dream, I imagined two uniquely powerful individuals on opposite sides of a hidden and eternal conflict meeting by chance at a casino diner/cafe. What happened then? What was the fallout of such a seemingly random yet intriguing encounter? I decided to write about it to find out.
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?
The inspiration is our world but with a hidden side to it. A battle wages within the shadows of that world, as the Dark and Light war with each other. When the two sides fight, their struggle throws the natural world out of balance, and so freak storms, earthquakes, floods, etc. result. In short, not all natural disasters are natural in the grim world of the Ebon Knight and his Dark Princess. The story has dragged me along with it, and as new characters have entered my pages, some of them have demanded their own stories, their own chapters, so that has been the most surprising changes to the Chronicles: It’s no longer JUST about my two protagonists, there are a whole host of other characters nearly as important. And, oh boy, my antagonist is NOT a joke either, read through some of my reviews and you can see she is mentioned several times. You will LOVE to HATE her!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
With this book and series, I was interested in the greys of life. Is anyone fully “good” or “evil?” Although there can be many instances where someone is darn close to either end, I was most interested in the vast landscapes in between. I wanted to explore Light vs Dark, Good vs Evil, and Order vs Chaos. Is the Princess evil? Or is she Justice? Is the Knight good? Or is he just stubborn with a death wish and no sense of preservation? As you read through the book, you get to decide these things for yourself…I can tell you that the Princess is probably my most popular character so far (according to readers). And what does that say, once we look at her as a whole? It’s fascinating for me to see the reactions to her, and I am very honored that just about every review mentions how they loved that facet of my book: the grey, the ambiguity, the balancing.
What will your next novel be about, and what will the whole series encompass?
My next novel is The Dark Witch which takes place directly after the events of book one and is going live on 12/22/23…so in a few days. After that, the trilogy wrap will be in Jan/Feb of 2024 with The Arch Mage. Along the way, I will be dropping short stories to fill out some of the interesting events/characters that shaped the series but wouldn’t make sense to actually write into the main books. One is already out and available on my website called The First Fury, and it is the story of how Kelso first came by the sword, as seen through Kiasa’s eyes. Kiasa was mentioned several times throughout the book; she is a legendary Fury within the Sisterhood and its most peerless fighter – until she disappeared one day. Her story and her connection to the Knight is told in that short. I have a second story coming as well, called The Lord Commander which is the background to Marcus Dain, High Lord Commander of the Paladins. I can’t give away why he deserves his own story, but it will become apparent to readers of my series by book two. These offerings will have covers, etc., and will be listed on Amazon, or for free if you sign up for my newsletter. I am hoping to write about a dozen over the next year.
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Two adversaries on opposite sides of the Eternal Conflict meet by chance and become allied against a new and sinister third power that has entered the fray. The withdrawn Knight of the Light is supposed to be good, and he really kind of is. The Princess of the Dark is supposed to be evil, and she really kind of isn’t. Can they meet in the middle?
Kelso Hart is outcasted from the Light and bearer of the fabled sword “Argenta”—a sentient monster in her own right. The latest in a long line of grim Knights of myth and legend that are cursed to carry the sword, whomsoever unsheathes Argenta becomes nigh unstoppable—and a completely unscrupulous killer.
Ava Pentran is the youngest Princess of the ruling house of the Dark, and harbors a secret known to none. Exiled and hunted by her parents, she lives still only due to her intimidating battle prowess and unique relationship to the Furies—a sect of fierce warrior women who are now her only friends, companions, and protectors. She is also a predator of predators, and her justice is brutal and always fatal.
In a world of magic and madness, Kelso and Ava must find a way to trust each other as they come to grips with a new and unknown complication in the Conflict—a virus that targets those on either side indiscriminately. Those infected are completely changed, their personalities overwritten into something malevolent and chaotic. Knight and Princess both are wounded and disillusioned with the war, but can their unlikely alliance save them? Can it save the world?
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The Ebon Knight is the first in a trilogy of books with elements of quirky humor, perilous adventure, and forbidden attraction during an extremely dangerous time. If you like plot surprises that aren’t ludicrous, villains you will love to hate, heroes with a few rough edges, and exciting battles where the “good guys” don’t always have the upper hand—then welcome!
Any fan of well-written dark/urban fantasy will feel right at home!
LITERARY TITAN 