Blog Archives
Finders
Robert J. Collins’ Finders kicks off a sprawling story rooted in ancient mystery and young discovery. The novel follows a group of university students on an archaeological dig in Cornwall, where what starts as a search for pottery shards and Roman tiles quickly transforms into something much more extraordinary. At the center is Ozzie, a dry-witted archaeology student who stumbles into a buried enigma, an ornate stone with gem-encrusted carvings and hints of long-lost rituals. As the dig deepens, tensions rise among the team, strange local figures emerge, and what lies beneath the surface, both literal and emotional, begins to shift their reality.
Reading Finders felt like being caught between a campus comedy and a mythic awakening. I absolutely loved the banter between the students. It’s quick, playful, and often funny. Ozzie is a wonderfully grounded narrator, the kind who doesn’t take himself too seriously but still brings a lot of heart to his observations. Collins has a real ear for dialogue. It’s chaotic, clever, and completely believable. But what surprised me most was how seamlessly that humor folded into something deeper. The archaeological details are rich but not overwhelming, and the slow burn of supernatural or symbolic significance unfolding in the knotwork stone was addictive. I didn’t expect a book about digging to keep me turning pages this fast.
The writing isn’t afraid to take its time. Collins lingers in conversations and small moments, and sometimes that gives it a slower pace than I wanted. But by the end, I appreciated the buildup. The characters felt real, not in a polished, archetypal way, but in the clumsy, lovable, kind-of-annoying way real people do. I was drawn to Mercie and her mystical side, to Carl’s playful chaos, and even to the mysterious Petroc, who might be charming or dangerous or both. The book flirts with fantasy, but it keeps one muddy boot firmly planted in the real world. That mix makes it special. It reminded me of Susan Cooper or early Neil Gaiman, only with more beer and sunburns.
Finders is for readers who like their magic grounded and their characters messy. If you enjoy smart young adult fiction with ancient puzzles, witty dialogue, and the tension of something just-about-to-happen, this book is worth your time. It’s not flashy. It’s not fast. But it leaves you curious, unsettled, and thrilled. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0FBXCM5BW
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.
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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!
The Last Dungeon Crawler
The Last Dungeon Crawler by Mike Simpson is a fast-paced and pulpy adventure that blends modern archaeology with high-stakes treasure hunting, political intrigue, and just a hint of the fantastical. The story follows Dr. Frank Barbarossa, a seasoned explorer with a mysterious past, as he embarks on a perilous underwater journey to uncover the Mantle of King Tobanya, an artifact steeped in myth and danger. What begins as a daring dive beneath an ancient pyramid quickly spirals into a race against time, filled with deadly traps, collapsing tunnels, and secrets that reach far beyond archaeology. Alongside his loyal but unsuspecting companions, Frank navigates both physical hazards and the moral minefields of ownership, truth, and exploitation in the world of antiquities. The narrative switches between Frank’s perspective and that of Sarya Barzani, an ambitious young journalist determined to expose him, adding a layer of cat-and-mouse tension to the tale.
What I enjoyed most about Simpson’s writing is its sense of momentum. The opening chapters throw you headfirst into the action, and the book rarely lets up from there. Scenes are tightly choreographed, with just enough detail to make the environments feel rich without bogging down the pace. The action sequences, particularly the tense underwater dive and the puzzle-solving in the ancient vault, are visual and clever, clearly inspired by the spirit of classic adventure serials. I also appreciated how Frank isn’t portrayed as a flawless hero; his quick thinking and skill are matched by a willingness to lie, manipulate, and withhold truths when it suits his goals. It makes him a more layered, if morally slippery, protagonist.
The dialogue often makes the characters’ thoughts and motivations crystal clear, ensuring readers never lose track of what’s at stake. And the novel’s blend of grounded techno-thriller elements with touches of fantasy and ancient magic gives it a unique flavor, appealing to fans of both realism and the supernatural. I personally enjoyed those supernatural glimmers and would have liked to see the book lean into them more boldly. The interplay between Frank’s secrets and Sarya’s investigation is a smart structural choice; it keeps the tension alive even in the quieter chapters and builds toward an inevitable clash between them.
By the time I reached the final chapters, I was fully invested in both the treasure hunt and the personal stakes. The Last Dungeon Crawler is the kind of book that rewards readers who enjoy brisk pacing, cinematic set pieces, and protagonists who thrive in the moral gray. If you’re into stories like Indiana Jones, National Treasure, or the Tomb Raider series, this novel will scratch that itch while adding its own modern twists.
Pages: 230 | ASIN: B0F8VQ7Y24
The Tralls of Maruchus
After reading The Tralls of Maruchus, I found myself swept up in a world that’s tender, rich, and surprisingly grounded despite all the magic. The book, third in the Trall series, follows Maya, a spirited young trall, as she faces devastating fire, looming danger, and mysterious encounters that test her courage and shake her world. Set in a fantastical version of Australia, the story braids together environmental themes, tribal lore, and coming-of-age elements through Maya’s eyes. There’s action, but it’s deeply emotional too, with family bonds, old legends, and new friendships all playing their part.
I really liked Torrens’ voice throughout the novel. It’s gentle, like someone sitting cross-legged and telling a story by the fire. At times, the descriptions lingered, but I found that endearing more than distracting. It gave me time to breathe and soak up the world. There’s something powerful about a book that doesn’t rush to its next battle or twist. What I liked most was how seriously the book takes emotions like fear, grief, guilt, and wonder, especially for a younger audience. Maya’s guilt over Ellie and her deep respect for her elders felt incredibly real. This is a story where consequences matter, and that hit me in the heart more than once.
There were moments when the pacing slowed, especially as the action started to build. At times, Maya’s reflections and the revisiting of earlier events felt a bit familiar, and I found myself eager to move forward. I wanted to see more dialogue and dynamic scenes rather than internal reflection. Still, I appreciated the emotional honesty. The way the natural world was treated, fire, water, and wildlife, made me ache. It’s rare to see ecological themes so woven into fantasy without feeling preachy.
I think The Tralls of Maruchus would be a lovely read for kids around ten and up, especially those who like nature, fantasy, or heartfelt adventure. It’s got an old-fashioned charm to it. Not flashy, not fast, but quietly magical. If you’re someone who remembers what it feels like to climb trees, get grass-stained knees, and dream of creatures in the river, then this one’s for you.
Pages: 306 | ISBN : 1797446037
Toriko Tales: Toriko vs. The Crowned Paw
Toriko Tales: Toriko vs. The Crowned Paw is a blast of color, chaos, and emotion packed into a high-tech, heart-thumping adventure. It follows Toriko Purg, a brilliant and eccentric catgirl engineer, as she tests her groundbreaking AI-powered battle armor. Things spiral out of control quickly when the AI goes rogue, stirring up ethical questions, emotional conflict, and even deeper mysteries tied to her world’s past. At its heart, the story is about innovation, responsibility, family, and the blurry line between control and chaos. This is all set against a sci-fi world with clawed combat, glowing gadgets, and digital dreams that might be more real than they seem.
Right out of the gate, I was struck by how vivid and fast-paced the writing is. The action scenes feel like cinematic explosions. It was lightning fast, detailed, and packed with personality. There’s a real charm in the way Zummo blends humor, emotion, and technobabble without getting bogged down in it. Toriko, Maro, and Ujaku all feel alive and distinct, even when they’re arguing over programming decisions or dodging energy blasts. The writing balances fluff and fury in a way that’s addictive. It’s fun and sharp without taking itself too seriously, and that playful confidence is what kept me turning pages.
But what really surprised me was how thoughtful it is under all the noise. There’s a deep vein of emotional weight running through it. Toriko’s birthday isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a moment of reflection. Her creations are powerful but unpredictable, and she has to face the consequences when things go sideways. The book doesn’t shy away from asking tough questions about artificial intelligence, control, and empathy. And it doesn’t hand out easy answers either. That mix of chaos and conscience hit me harder than I expected, especially in the later chapters. There’s loss, guilt, wonder, and even a bit of hope tied into the ticking wires and blinking lights.
If you like your sci-fi loud, bright, emotional, and full of heart, this is one for you. Toriko Tales is perfect for fans of anime-inspired space operas, chaotic genius protagonists, and stories that dance between punchlines and moral puzzles. It’s not a dry philosophical dive, and it’s definitely not sterile science fiction. This thing meows, scratches, explodes, and purrs its way through serious ideas without losing its playfulness. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants a story that isn’t afraid to be smart and silly all at once.
Pages: 324 | ISBN: 978-0-9983286-2-1
Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures
Maddy is a spirited young girl with strong feelings, and not the warm and fuzzy kind, about fruits and vegetables. She’d prefer a world without them altogether. But with her loyal dog, Apollo, by her side, she’s about to discover just how essential these colorful bites can be. In a whimsical twist, Maddy stumbles upon a magical garden powered entirely by the very foods she despises. To unlock its wonders, though, she must be brave enough to taste them. If she wants the extraordinary abilities the garden promises, she’ll need to step outside her comfort zone and maybe even admit that fruits and veggies aren’t so bad after all.
Maddy and Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures, written by Ali Josselet, is a charming illustrated children’s book aimed at preschoolers through early tweens. In the tradition of timeless classics like the Berenstain Bears, Josselet delivers a tale with a gentle moral wrapped in a vivid, engaging narrative.
Many children wrestle with picky eating, but Maddy takes it a step further, launching a full-on rebellion against two major food groups. Her disdain is intense, and Josselet uses this strong aversion to build a clever metaphor: magical powers as a stand-in for the benefits of proper nutrition. Instead of preaching, the story invites readers into a world where curiosity, imagination, and a little culinary bravery are rewarded.
Rather than relying on logic or lectures, which rarely work on young kids, the book draws them in with mystery, fun, and a touch of magic. The inclusion of Apollo, a sweet and supportive canine companion, adds emotional depth and approachability. The illustrations are lively and bold, enhancing the story’s playful tone and making the lesson all the more memorable.
Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures is a delightful picture book that blends heart, humor, and health in a way that entertains while it educates. Light in tone but rich in purpose, it’s a joyful adventure through a garden where the true magic lies in open minds and open mouths.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0FG1Q4RCC
Mission Teen Berets: Assault on Ravens Rest
Mission Teen Berets: Assault on Ravens Rest by Kitty Tolsma Anderson is a riveting espionage sci-fi novel that brilliantly incorporates the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic into its pulse-pounding narrative. Anderson’s seamless blending of real-world events creates a gripping and timely story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
A family of spies go on a daring rescue mission to save one of their own, Fiona—a virologist after 40 years of captivity by the Sino-Chosen-Russian-Iranian Bioweapons spy ring. This rescue mission is based on a new clue received during the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to thwart the sinister plans of the SCRIB spies who now take on the family with renewed urgency in the midst of a global pandemic.
This book is a faith-infused, family-centered narrative that takes readers on a spellbinding odyssey into the lives of the Purdy family. The author meticulously crafts a narrative laced with suspense that unfurls like a flower bud in full bloom. It’s a story that traverses the precipice of life’s fragility as the shadows of tragedy descend.
Anderson’s storytelling ability shines through in her skillful exploration of familial bonds and unyielding principles. The characters, especially the teen berets, were keenly developed, with opportunities presented for readers to see the workings of the characters’ minds.
What distinguishes Mission Teen Berets: Assault on Ravens Rest is its harmonious blend of faith-based values and a spine-tingling espionage narrative. It’s a narrative that beckons the characters to make soul-stirring sacrifices, reinforcing the unassailable creed of the family.
It’s a gem for a curious reader who will find it touches different career paths in the biological sciences. Author Kitty Tolsma Anderson has painted a vivid book that readers will not soon forget.
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0FK86T8Q3
A Nod to J.K. Rowling
The Hunt for Alesta follows a reluctant teenage prince who is prophesied to be the chosen one with magical abilities that will save his kingdom from a curse that will destroy it. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Great question. My inspiration came from two authors who truly shaped my writing. J.R.R. Tolkien and David Eddings were my absolute favorites. Their ability to captivate from the very first pages left a lasting impression on me.
I also give a nod to J.K. Rowling, particularly in her magical settings. It sparked my imagination and helped craft my own world—so a blend of all three, really. That is likely why so many reviewers have mentioned my magical doors and described my world as ‘whimsical.’ (But you’ll need to read the books to see what that is all about.)
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?
Without doubt, my primary influence was, again, J.R.R. Tolkien. He was a true master of worldbuilding and description. From the moment I first read The Hobbit, I was captivated by the richness of the world he created, and it set me on a path to build a world of my own.
As I wrote, the prose seemed to take on a life of its own—fairy lamps, talking doors, and more—everything just fell into place naturally. I try to consider the kind of world I would have loved to immerse myself in as a middle-grade reader, and that vision shaped Westmore and the Western Lands.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Mostly, friendship, coming-of-age, teenage angst, romance, and more. I hoped to capture the essence that not every teen is eager to embrace responsibility right away—even if they are a prince. Often, they just want to enjoy the moment, hang out with friends, and be carefree, brushing aside the harsher realities of life. But despite all the youthful desire for freedom, they still prove themselves to be resilient—formidable even—when the bonds of friendship and mutual respect keep them united, especially through the toughest of times.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
Without giving too much away, let me just say the prince faces a major twist in Book 2. Being the Chosen One is not as glamorous as it seems, and the harsh truth turns out to be more disappointing than he ever anticipated.
The third and final installment is already available, so I shall hold off on revealing too much. But rest assured, the unexpected twists and turns—things every teenager knows all too well—are a constant thread throughout the series.
Book 2: Apadora Rising dives into the tension that arises when friends no longer see eye to eye. New enemies emerge, and life spirals out of control for the group.
In Book 3: The King’s Ascent, the friends face off against a host of villains in a desperate attempt to save Westmore. (Teaser question: Will Prince Barrett abandon the throne, or will he fight to keep the city his family has ruled for generations?)
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The ancient sorceress, Alesta, has condemned humanity to an endless cycle of violence. The only hope of breaking her Ruinous Curse comes from the prophesized Helserian. Rumors say Barrett, the prince of Westmore, is the chosen one, but he despises that notion.
Being a normal teenager and spending time with his friends exploring their city—a haven for fairies, cyclops, talking doors, and other magical beings—is his only concern. However, the upcoming war may dash his hopes. Besides, he is a fighter, not a magic user. That is, until the day his power awakens.
Now, aided by his friends, Barrett must face ancient dragons and cave-dwelling Trowkens to acquire the tools to master his magic and confront Alesta. Ultimately, he must force the sorceress to lift the curse or destroy her if she refuses. For if he fails, he will watch helplessly as his world tears itself apart.
LITERARY TITAN 