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The Dryad’s Crown
The story follows Piper, a girl who comes into the world under strange and magical circumstances, a child not born but found. She grows up pulled between care and cruelty, eventually falling under the rule of Dahlia Tulan, a guildmaster feared by all of Penderyn. Piper, renamed Silbrey, learns to fight, to kill, and to survive, carrying with her a mysterious staff that ties her to the forest and the gods. The book traces her journey from abandoned child to trained warrior to wife and mother, weaving in themes of love, power, abuse, and the weight of choices. It’s a tale about what it means to belong, and what it costs to escape.
Reading this book stirred up a mix of emotions. At times, the writing hit me hard with its blunt edges. Scenes of brutality were uncomfortable, but that discomfort made the story feel real. I caught myself holding my breath when Dahlia appeared, because the tension the author created around her was suffocating. The pacing sometimes slowed down with long descriptions, yet I didn’t mind, because it grounded me in the world. The tenderness between Silbrey and Callis was a much-needed counterweight to the violence. Their love felt believable, raw, and fragile. It gave me hope that even people shaped by cruelty can carve out something good.
What I found most striking were the ideas buried under the story. The book isn’t just about fantasy battles or guild politics. It’s about how trauma roots itself in people and how hard it is to pull free. Silbrey’s connection to her staff, to the trees, and the earth, reminded me of the ways we cling to something solid when everything else is crumbling. Hopkins doesn’t hand out easy answers. The gods don’t swoop in to save anyone. Instead, the book suggests that survival itself is sacred, and sometimes love, though messy and imperfect, is the closest thing to grace. That felt honest to me.
The Dryad’s Crown reminded me of Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy with its mix of intimate character struggle, harsh mentorship, and the ache of trying to build a life in a world that feels both cruel and magical. I’d recommend The Dryad’s Crown to readers who like their fantasy with grit and heart, who don’t mind being unsettled along the way. If you’re drawn to characters who bleed, who fight, who love fiercely even while carrying deep scars, then this book will stay with you long after you set it down.
Pages: 569 | ASIN : B0C19R4FM5
Acceptance
The Wild Shepherdess follows a girl born under mysterious circumstances during a storm, and marked by the blessing of a dragon, who, despite growing up tormented, discovers moments of wonder while embarking on an unforgettable quest of self-discovery. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It all started when I was doing an online class about fantasy novel writing when the pandemic struck. So, I was writing out what creatures to involve in the story, the character, and it just evolved.
You took your time in building Clara’s character and the story to great emotional effect. How did you manage the pacing of the story while keeping readers engaged?
I had to think about how much time I needed to put into Clara’s character, where it felt realistic but not over the top or corny. I also had to keep in mind that this was a world of danger, and Clara is not entirely safe from it.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
It mostly focuses on the theme of acceptance. I feel that it’s important to surround yourself with people who truly value you as a person and the gifts you have.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes. The Wild Shepherdess is the first book in the series, and I’m currently working on the sequel. I can’t give a precise date yet, but I can say there will be more human characters Clara interacts with, and the inclusion of Selkies to boot.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Mercy: Tears of the Fallen (The First Volume)
Mercy: Tears of the Fallen is a sprawling, bloody, and relentless dive into a world where power, betrayal, and sacrifice tangle together until you can’t tell where hope ends and despair begins. The book drops you headfirst into Maetlynd, a land haunted by the wreckage of old wars and cursed legacies. We follow a cast of broken warriors, seers, rebels, and rulers as they claw through violence, political upheaval, and their own personal demons. It’s about the weight of history and the terrible cost of survival. It’s epic, it’s brutal, and it doesn’t let you catch your breath.
Dillon’s writing is sharp, often lyrical, and he doesn’t shy away from pain. I admired how he painted scenes of intimacy in the same breath as carnage, letting moments of quiet family life burn brighter because of the looming tragedy. Some passages gutted me, especially when characters faced choices that had no good outcome. I’ll admit, there were points where the sheer density of names, Orders, and histories slowed me down, but when the story caught its rhythm, it roared forward with the force of a storm. I found myself lingering on certain sentences, then racing through the next few pages, heart in my throat.
What really struck me were the themes of legacy and loss. Every character seemed to carry ghosts, and the weight of their choices bled into every line of dialogue. At times, it was overwhelming, but in a way that felt intentional, like Dillon wanted me to feel the exhaustion and heartbreak of living in a world that never truly heals. There were nights I had to close the book just to sit with the heaviness, and mornings when I couldn’t wait to dive back in. That kind of emotional push and pull is rare, and it’s what made the story feel alive.
I’d recommend Mercy: Tears of the Fallen to readers who want their fantasy raw, unflinching, and emotionally devastating. If you’re ready to be immersed in a world where every victory feels earned in blood and every loss cuts deep, then you’ll heartily enjoy this book. For fans of grimdark fantasy and epic sagas alike, this is a debut worth paying attention to.
Pages: 629 | ASIN : B0DRWCBRZD
Beast Heart Series: The Wild Shepherdess
Erin Tunney’s Beast Heart Series: The Wild Shepherdess is a dark yet enchanting fantasy that pulled me in from the very first page. The story follows Clara, a girl born under mysterious circumstances during a storm and marked by the blessing of a dragon. Instead of being celebrated, she grows up isolated, treated as cursed by her village and tormented by both common folk and nobles. Her life is shaped by cruelty and loneliness, yet her journey is also marked by strange moments of wonder, be it the comfort of weaving flowers into a crown, or the terrifying beauty of beasts that enter her path. This push and pull between brutality and awe defines the novel, and I found myself deeply drawn into Clara’s fragile, painful, and extraordinary life.
The villagers’ scorn, the vicious taunts of Lady Maroona, and the constant reminder that she doesn’t belong all rang with a rawness that was hard to look away from. At times, I felt genuine anger at the way she was treated, and yet those feelings made the few glimmers of kindness shine even brighter. Her bond with Rue offered fleeting comfort, but even more powerful was her connection to the unicorn Lotus. Their meeting during the sacred ceremony was stunning, described with a ribbon of silver light that felt both magical and dangerous. The scene filled me with hope, only for that hope to be dashed when Clara was cast out in fear and rage. That moment captured the heart of the book for me, the way wonder and cruelty can coexist so tightly.
The writing itself often surprised me. There are stretches of vivid description that made the world feel both grand and terrifying, like the cockatrice battles and the haunting presence of dragons, but also quiet passages that linger on Clara’s inner life. Tunney has a way of drawing out the emotion of a scene without drowning it in detail. I did notice that some of the world-building came across a little heavy at times, especially when the gods and beasts were explained in dialogue, but the emotional depth of Clara’s journey always pulled me back. Her struggle to find strength in the very things that once marked her as cursed felt authentic, even uplifting, without ever straying into sentimentality.
By the time I reached the end, I realized I wasn’t just invested in the story but in Clara herself. She begins as a girl beaten down by cruelty, but she grows into someone who carries her scars with a quiet strength. The final chapters don’t offer easy answers or neat victories, but they left me with a sense of sorrow edged with hope. I closed the book with the feeling that Clara’s story was only beginning, and I wanted to follow her further into the strange, perilous world Tunney has created.
I’d recommend The Wild Shepherdess to anyone who loves fantasy that digs beneath the surface of magic and monsters to explore the loneliness of being an outsider. It’s not a lighthearted tale, but it’s beautiful in its honesty and moving in its quiet moments of wonder. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories that aren’t afraid to show both the cruelty and the grace of the world will find much to admire here.
Pages: 376 | ISBN : 1837943508
The Eye of Ebon
The Eye of Ebon is a dark and sweeping fantasy tale that pulls you into a world of bitter winters, brutal enemies, and an undercurrent of ancient legend. At its heart is the harrowing survival of Samiare, a young girl torn from her family and brutalized by the monstrous Groll, only to be delivered a mysterious, almost divine sword that grants her both vengeance and solace. Parallel to her journey is Ruegette, a seasoned warrior from Tierinor, whose sense of duty and stubborn compassion push her to uncover the deeper plot behind the Groll’s presence in the frozen wastes of Norvaine. As the story winds through raids, rescues, and ruin-haunted mountain passes, the narrative threads begin to knot around an ancient key, the Eye of Ebon, and the shadowy forces moving to claim it.
The writing balances vivid brutality with strange beauty, and I felt the weight of every snow-laden step and every wound described. The prose has a rhythm that shifts between crisp action and almost lyrical inner monologue. There are moments of raw violence that left me tense, and others of quiet humanity that kept me thinking about them throughout the day. I found myself caring for Samiare in a way that made me want to step into the page and shield her from the world. Ruegette’s arc resonated differently, more as an exploration of loyalty and the uncomfortable truth that sometimes doing the right thing means walking straight into danger.
There are sections where the descriptions stretch on and slow the urgency, and times when dialogue feels formal. But then the story delivers these sudden jolts, like discoveries in ruined halls, treacherous turns in battle, confessions under the shadow of firelight, that pull you right back in. The mix of political intrigue, mythic history, and personal survival works because it keeps the stakes layered. It’s never just about the fight in front of you, it’s about the web it’s tangled in.
The Eye of Ebon left me with that rare mix of satisfaction and unease. It closes enough loops to feel whole, yet you can sense the larger saga looming beyond the final page. I’d recommend this to readers who like their fantasy sharp-edged and emotionally charged, and for readers who want not just the clash of swords, but the ache of the people wielding them.
Pages: 247 | ASIN : B0DB1F14HD
Labyrinth of Memory
Spear of Lugh follows a powerful and timeless witch reborn across centuries, as she confronts an ancient evil and embraces her destiny as the Keeper of Balance. What were some themes that you felt were important to highlight in this story?
As I delved into the captivating narrative of Spear of Lugh, following Merona, a powerful and timeless witch reborn across centuries, I found myself drawn to several profound themes crucial to her journey. Her epic quest to confront an ancient evil and embrace her destiny as the Keeper of Balance provided a rich foundation, but it was the nuanced exploration of destiny, immense power, and universal equilibrium that truly resonated with me. I aimed to highlight not only her external battles but also her deeply personal struggle through a symbolic labyrinth of memory, ultimately showing that true strength lies in understanding darkness both within oneself and the world.
What was the initial idea behind The Witch’s Rebirth series, and how did that transform as you were writing the series?
Where does the true magic begin? For me, The Witch’s Rebirth series wasn’t with potion-making or incantations, but with the chaotic, exhilarating magic of creation itself. A journey that transformed a simple idea into a thrilling saga far larger and more intricate than my initial scribbled notes ever hinted at. What began as a deceptively straightforward concept, envisioning a witch protagonist facing the harsh trials of historical witch hunts in 1590 Scotland, quickly proved to be just the initial spark for an unpredictable genesis. My restless creative mind, clearly unburdened by sensible notions, soon realized this tale demanded more than mere historical accuracy. It rapidly blossomed into a vibrant blend of fantasy, ancient lore, and profound Celtic mythology. Through numerous revisions, unexpected bursts of inspiration like stumbling upon a real labyrinth, and a deep dive into the very essence of ancient deities, the series evolved. Which gave its primary witch, Merona, a far more ancient lineage, making her a destined embodiment of the land’s primal powers. This enchanting and deeply personal process truly embodies the magic of evolution, a testament to how humble beginnings can lead to an epic, multi-layered narrative that is still unfolding.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
Reflecting on my work, the question of whether I fully realized every aspiration for my characters is a nuanced one, landing somewhere between a resounding ‘yes’ and a quiet ‘no’. It’s an immense challenge to condense centuries of intricate past lives and epic battles into a mere three-book series. While I wanted to delve deeper into Murdach’s past conflicts and his individual journey, his narrative threads were so intrinsically woven with Merona’s that extracting them proved incredibly difficult without disrupting the core story. This experience has certainly shaped my approach for the upcoming trilogy, where I aim to not only further develop the main protagonist but also dedicate significant attention to exploring the depths of other key characters.
Now that you have concluded this series, what is the next book that you are working on?
Having just concluded this series, I, too, am wondering: what’s next? Well, the cauldron’s already bubbling again, which probably means more unexpected twists, demanding deities, and quite possibly, a new variety of fictional trouble with my favorite witch. Wish me luck; I’m absolutely going to need it.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The final battle for humanity looms. Will Merona rise to meet her destiny, or be consumed by the encroaching darkness?
Return to the shadowed world of 544 AD Septimania, a long-lost town in ancient Gaul, where the echoes of a devastating plague still linger. A fragile hope has bloomed amongst the untamed bonfires and lingering sorrow, but it is about to be extinguished. Samhain approaches, and with it, the veil between worlds thins, allowing an ancient darkness, thought to be defeated, to rise once more.
Destiny calls to Merona, the reborn witch who emerged from the labyrinth’s maw with unwavering resolve. Empowered by the divine strength of the Gods and wielding the legendary Cauldron of Dagda and the Spear of Lugh, she stands as humanity’s last line of defense against the encroaching evil.
But even as she prepares to unleash their power, Merona is burdened by a chilling truth: she is a harbinger, poised to extinguish even her last flicker of hope. The quest to save humanity may demand the ultimate sacrifice, forcing her to choose between her own well-being and the fate of the world.
Prepare to be captivated by a dark fantasy steeped in Celtic mythology, historical grounding, and a high-stakes narrative where magic clashes with ancient evil. Spear of Lugh: The Witch’s Rebirth Part III explores the profound themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, promising a thrilling and unforgettable conclusion to the Witch’s Rebirth trilogy.
In this final chapter, ask yourself:Can Merona harness the power of the Gods to vanquish the ancient darkness once and for all?
What sacrifices will she have to make to fulfill her destiny?
Will hope prevail, or will the world succumb to the shadows that threaten to engulf it?
Dive into Spear of Lugh: The Witch’s Rebirth Part III and witness the epic climax of Merona’s journey!
Leaving My Mark
Legacy is a sprawling science-fantasy epic that follows the lives of several young warriors on the world of Utopia, a place where ancient magic coexists with advanced technology. This is an intriguing fantasy novel. Why was it important for you to write this book?
It’s a story that has stuck with me since childhood. It stayed in my mind and continued to expand in scope. I had thought about creating other media, but eventually settled on writing a story. It’s my way of leaving my mark in the sands of time, proof that I was once here, something I can leave behind.
Your characters are intriguing and highly engaging to readers. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoyed writing for all of them. There were times when it got difficult, some of Ryker’s scenes in particular. He, unfortunately, suffers through some of the darker themes within the story. As I have previously mentioned, the story has grown within my mind, and so have these characters. I am telling a story that happened ages ago, which means I have to remind myself that these are younger versions of the characters. They can’t do certain things or wouldn’t react in the same ways that they would now.
I find that authors sometimes ask themselves questions and let their characters answer them. Do you think this is true for your characters?
Oh, most certainly. They are always with me. I’ve done what I can to keep the characters alive in my mind since childhood, as I wanted to write the story one day, but feared that as I got older, I would forget about them. I didn’t want to do that, so I found ways to keep them present and fresh in my mind. Creating new adventures or exploring new lands with them.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write Legacy?
I have little to no experience in writing officially. The most I have done was write some short stories, many of which never got an ending, and write some poetry in my young teen years. I am not even an avid novel reader. I once was in my youth, but I lost that along the road, unfortunately. I’ll still read comics and manga occasionally, but even then. At one time, I thought I would create a Legacy series within a comic book or a manga, but my drawing skills aren’t as consistent as I would like them to be. I don’t have the means to hire an artist, but I know how to write. So, I decided on trying my hand at stringing words together and writing a book, a series of books if all goes as planned.
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A sci-fi fantasy epic of war, sacrifice, and the unbreakable power of friendship. For readers who crave rich characters, explosive action, and worlds where courage and conviction are the greatest weapons, Legacy delivers a thrilling beginning to a saga that will echo across galaxies.
Dark Angelus Everlast is a mystery to most. A local outsider with no known past, he rose to prominence after a decisive victory in one of Utopia’s most prestigious martial arts tournaments. Powerful, enigmatic, and reserved, he’s earned respect—but remains untested in the eyes of many. That changes when a brutal force from beyond the stars descends upon the planet, leaving devastation in its wake and catapulting Dark into a role he never sought.
Thrust into command as Planetary General, Dark must rally divided factions, earn the trust of wary allies, and master abilities that may cost him more than he’s willing to give. With his home on the brink of collapse, he stands as one of its final hopes—whether he’s ready or not.
At his side are Cory Ryker and Cogeta Fairway—steadfast friends whose loyalty runs deeper than blood. Cory, a quiet strategist with a sharp mind who must learn to confront and defeat his greatest enemy, himself. Cogeta, a charismatic warrior whose humor masks a lifetime of burdens, faces trials that will test the very foundation of his identity.
Together, they’ll navigate a galaxy where ancient forces and advanced civilizations collide, forging uneasy alliances, confronting devastating truths, and waging war against an enemy that embodies domination and despair.
Legacy is a bold fusion of military science fiction, epic fantasy, and political drama, exploring the price of heroism in a world where nothing comes without sacrifice. This is not a tale of chosen ones—it’s the story of young warriors standing against impossible odds, shaped not by destiny but by the choices they make when everything is on the line.
Legacy
Legacy is a sprawling science-fantasy epic that follows the lives of several young warriors on the world of Utopia, a place where ancient magic coexists with advanced technology. The central focus is on Dark Angelus Everlast (Angel), a mysterious, battle-hardened youth with a troubled past, and his close-knit group of friends: the charming troublemaker Cogeta, the reserved intellectual Cory, the kind-hearted Leen, and several other richly drawn characters. The story begins with a celebratory dance at Utopia University but soon spirals into tournaments, political tensions, emotional entanglements, and spiritual conflicts that challenge the characters’ bonds and ideals. It’s a coming-of-age story wrapped in fantasy armor, soaked in emotional vulnerability, and set against a backdrop of war, prophecy, and legacy.
Reading this book felt like being dropped into the middle of someone’s beloved dream world. It’s dense, heartfelt, and often emotionally raw. The writing switches between tender introspection and explosive confrontation. There are scenes that resonated with me, especially those that explored Cory’s aching loneliness and longing, Angel’s gruff tenderness, and Leen’s quiet strength. The dialogue often brims with tension or affection. I appreciated how the author didn’t shy away from showing emotional messiness. There were parts where the writing veered into melodrama, but those moments made it feel more real, like watching teenagers deal with the weight of growing up while the fate of the world quietly looms.
Stylistically, the book wears its heart on its sleeve. Sometimes that means some scenes are long or narrations dive deeply into characters’ internal monologues. It felt like reading something intensely personal, like the author poured everything into these characters, their triumphs, their pain, and their awkwardness. The world-building was immersive, if sometimes overwhelming. The fusion of Norse myth, magical lore, and sci-fi tech made for a wild ride. But the real star was the character work. The friendships, rivalries, and quiet betrayals were where this book truly shined. It made me care deeply about these fictional kids and their fates.
Legacy left me feeling nostalgic, a bit heartbroken, and hopeful. It’s a book for anyone who loves character-driven fantasy with heavy emotional undercurrents. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy stories like Final Fantasy, RWBY, or My Hero Academia. Tales where bonds between characters matter more than the battles themselves. If you’ve ever sat alone at a dance, staring at someone you loved from afar, this book might hit you harder than you expect.
Pages: 391 | ASIN : B0FBRLTW29
LITERARY TITAN 