Blog Archives
Shadows and Black in the Light
Amy van Rijthoven’s Shadows and Black in the Light is a haunting and poetic journey through the lives of two deeply scarred individuals—Millie and Andy—whose stories intertwine across themes of grief, betrayal, longing, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of rural Australia, the novel moves between the perspectives of Millie, a teenager on the brink of adulthood grappling with the mysterious death of her father and the emotional absence of her mother, and Andy, a former associate of her father caught between his criminal past and an aching desire to start over. As their lives begin to overlap, the novel paints an intricate portrait of broken families, buried secrets, and the fragile, persistent hope for healing.
What I liked most was the visceral, emotional quality of the writing. Van Rijthoven doesn’t shy away from the messiness of human relationships. Her prose is vivid, lyrical, sometimes raw, evoking smells, textures, and fleeting moments with clarity. Millie’s voice is especially poignant. She’s young but not naive, strong yet vulnerable. I often found myself pausing to absorb the depth of her thoughts, quiet reflections that feel both personal and relatable. Andy’s chapters, on the other hand, are grittier and rough-edged, but they balance Millie’s internal monologue with action and a grim look at life on the other side of the law. The dual narrative worked beautifully for me—it was like watching two storms edge closer together until they finally collide.
While the emotional weight carried the story far, there were moments when the pacing felt uneven—certain scenes lingered, while others that seemed pivotal moved quickly. But even when the plot wandered, the emotional heartbeat never faltered. The mystery, the slow-burn relationships, the tension—it kept me hooked. And by the final chapters, I felt I had truly gone on a journey with these characters. Their growth felt earned.
Shadows and Black in the Light is a heartfelt and emotionally rich novel that is perfect for readers who enjoy stories of self-discovery, slow-burning suspense, and complex family drama. If you’re the kind of person who likes to sit with a story long after it ends, who appreciates prose that breathes, and who isn’t afraid of confronting the shadows we all carry, this book is for you.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0FB3L88ZY
Starfall
Starfall by B.C. Charles is a gripping tale that opens with mysterious occurrences in the quiet town of Anne Falls, centering on Nathan Hawkins, a teenager juggling everyday struggles with the weight of supernatural secrets. The story weaves together local legends, paranormal investigations, and personal conflicts, exploring the fallout from a supposed extraterrestrial crash decades prior. Through Nathan’s encounters with cults, cryptic journals, and his latent pyrokinesis, the book delves into themes of identity, truth, and resilience.
I was immediately hooked by the atmospheric opening. The vivid description of a fireball crashing into Kingland Forest sets an eerie tone that persists throughout the book. Nathan’s first foray into the woods to investigate a cult gave me chills—Charles nailed the sense of danger and suspense. Yet, what I loved most was how grounded the story felt despite its supernatural elements. Nathan’s frustrations with school bullies and his strained relationship with his aunt added layers of relatability.
The writing style is straightforward yet evocative. Charles’s knack for painting tension-filled scenes shone brightest during Nathan’s confrontation with the cultists near Queen’s Lake. I found myself rooting for Nathan as he outwitted them while battling his own fears. However, I feel the dialogue among the secondary characters, like Mike and Angela, occasionally veered toward being more formal and in some instances slightly repetitive.
The ideas within the book, particularly the intersection of science, faith, and the paranormal were fascinating. I enjoyed how the AFUN archive files complemented the narrative, offering glimpses into a conspiracy bigger than Nathan. The concept of the “Daughters of Men” and their ties to Anne Falls’ history was compelling, though I wish the book had spent more time unraveling their motives. The inclusion of Nathan’s fire powers added a unique layer to the story, but it sometimes felt underutilized. I kept hoping for a deeper exploration of how his abilities connected to Starfall and his family’s mysterious past, however, this leaves an opportunity for future installations.
Starfall is a satisfying mix of coming-of-age drama and supernatural mystery. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves stories that blend small-town secrets with larger-than-life phenomena. Fans of shows like Stranger Things or books like The Outsiders with a paranormal twist will feel right at home here. The book’s heart and intrigue kept me turning pages late into the night.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0DLBQ1DMP
Point Guard
Stefan Mattessich’s Point Guard takes readers on a journey through the rugged beauty of Mendocino, California, while unpacking the complexities of adolescence, community, and self-discovery. The protagonist, Woody, navigates friendships, basketball, and the undercurrents of small-town life, all against the backdrop of a windswept coast. The story is rich with vivid descriptions and emotional depth, tying personal growth to the relentless rhythms of nature and the pressures of a fading community.
What struck me most about the book was the emotional honesty of its characters, especially Woody. Through his eyes, we see the raw beauty and the quiet despair of Mendocino. The basketball court becomes a metaphor for life, a place where camaraderie, competition, and personal demons collide. The intense scene where Woody and his friend Jordi struggle under the critical gaze of Coach is a standout. These moments make the book deeply relatable and occasionally heart-wrenching.
Mattessich’s prose blends the poetic with the straightforward, creating a rhythm that mirrors the ebb and flow of the tides. One memorable passage reflects Woody’s feelings about the sea: “To those who live by it, the sea is less a comfort than a disquiet, a dread.” This sentence encapsulates both the physical landscape and the emotional terrain of the story. At times, though, the pacing slows as the prose becomes contemplative. While this adds texture, it occasionally slows the momentum, especially during pivotal plot developments.
Another highlight is the nuanced exploration of relationships. Woody’s longing for Suzanne, his complicated friendship with Jordi, and his grudging admiration for Chase are beautifully layered. When Chase arrives and upends the group dynamic, Woody’s envy and admiration create a believable emotional tug-of-war. The scene at the school dance, where Woody’s heart sinks watching Suzanne and Chase together, felt painfully real. Mattessich captures the bittersweet nature of unspoken feelings and the resilience it takes to move forward.
Point Guard is a contemplative, atmospheric new adult novel that will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of growing up, the sting of unrequited love, or the push-and-pull of community. It’s an excellent read for those who appreciate coming-of-age stories laced with a strong sense of place and poetic introspection.
Pages: 204 | ASIN : B072WM1KNX
Funny Contradictions: Medusa as a Hairdresser
Cryptid Bits follows the residents living in the Fairy District, a unique place where creatures of myth and legend live side by side, and humans want to be a part of it all. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The whole collection was actually spawned by a single flash story I wrote from a prompt. The prompt was to write a story where an unexpected character is in a mundane or well-known setting. I wrote a little piece about bigfoot going to the movies and it was such a fun exercise I wrote a couple more. Once I had a half dozen or so little micros I started to see some potential threads and arcs that could connect them and realized I was writing a collection. I’ve always enjoyed books that take a collage approach to storytelling or use a “found document” conceit, so once I knew I was working on a chapbook I made a point of trying out some different storytelling formats. That’s how things like the listicles and Yowl! reviews ended up coming to be. What’s kind of funny is that the original bigfoot at the movies story didn’t end up making it into the finished book, although the spirit of it is still there in the piece “Pros and Cons of Going to the Movies with a Bigfoot”.
The creatures in this book were very intriguing. How did you go about creating them for this book?
All of the creatures in the book come from some kind of folklore or mythology, so it was less about creating them than it was choosing which ones to feature, and which version of the creature archetype to use. I went about that in different ways depending on the piece. A few of them started from the “punchline”—Banshee and the Siouxies was one of those, and so was the vampire at the blood drive. For a lot of the others, I started with the creature I wanted to play with and brainstormed either real-world situations they’d be suited for (brownies working in hospitality) or things I felt would be a funny contradiction (Medusa as a hairdresser).
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
To be honest, I rarely intentionally explore themes in my work. When I was writing Cryptid Bits I was more focused on exploring the world and following the characters who lived there. I do think that some themes naturally emerged when I was writing just because this setting is so close to the modern real world, but I can’t really take credit for putting those in there, and honestly didn’t even really think about themes until after the collection was done.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
I definitely plan to come back to this universe, because it’s a very fun sandbox to play in! I’ve been working on other projects recently and haven’t decided yet which creatures the next book will feature or what the overarching plot will be. I do think the next one will probably be at least novella-length and will likely include some longer short stories rather than just micros. I’m also brainstorming some different types of “found document” forms to include, because I think the collage aspect is something I want to continue in some way.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Website | Book Review
This is the story of cryptids and humans living in the same world, one where it’s not as obvious as you might think to figure out who around you is a monster.
Cryptid Bits
In Crypted Bits, readers are invited into a neighborhood unlike any other. It’s a fantastical realm where creatures of myth and legend live side by side. Here, beings of different species coexist in a fragile harmony, often clashing but mostly managing to get along. That balance, however, begins to shift when humans start moving in. The gentrification of the Fairy District is underway, and with it comes an inevitable upheaval. What was once a peculiar but peaceful community is now facing change that will ripple through its very core. Opening the pages of this novel is like stepping into an enchanted world populated by unforgettable characters, each with their own unique story. The narrative feels like a rich mosaic where reality and fantasy intertwine, creating something fresh, strange, and delightful. Jess Simms draws the reader into a world that is both familiar and otherworldly, reminiscent of Neil Gaiman’s urban fantasy or the whimsical mischief of Eoin Colfer’s Artemis Fowl series.
Rather than following a linear plot, Crypted Bits unfolds as a series of vignettes or episodic misadventures, each offering glimpses into the lives of the district’s residents. The narrative has a tendency to fragment and drift off in unexpected directions, which can be disorienting, but I found it captivating overall.
Simms deftly employs an array of literary techniques to build the Fairy District into a fully realized setting. Advertisements, listicles, social media posts, and news articles all serve as windows into this world, giving the reader a multifaceted view of a community where cryptids (mythical creatures from every corner of folklore) struggle to coexist both with each other and with the encroaching human population. Conflict arises, of course, but it’s handled with wit and charm rather than violence. The struggles of the district’s inhabitants, while real, never feel too heavy. Instead, they are infused with a whimsical energy that makes even the challenges feel endearing. There’s a certain magic to the way life in the Fairy District unfolds, and Simms invites the reader to experience it in all its quirky glory.
I think Crypted Bits isn’t meant to be a straightforward story. Instead, it’s an immersive experience, one that allows readers to wander through its dreamlike landscape, discovering new surprises at every turn. Jess Simms has crafted a world that is a joy to explore, and while the novel may be brief, the spell it casts lingers long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 76 | ASIN : B0CRGK4NJR
The Secret
The Secret by Eve M. Riley is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the quest for truth, set against the vivid and raw backdrop of Africa and New York. At the heart of this novel is Liss, a fiercely independent woman who has navigated a life filled with heartbreak and betrayal. Her instinct to protect herself is strong, yet when she meets Dan during a volunteer mission in the Congo, something shifts. Unlike the deceitful charmers of her past, Dan meets her sharp wit with a disarming charm that draws her in, sparking an undeniable connection.
Liss’s journey is defined by her resilience and determination to chart her own course, even as her trust in Dan begins to waver. Initially, she chooses not to pry into Dan’s evasive responses, confident that his secrets will eventually surface on their own. However, as the truth starts to reveal itself, Liss’s confidence gives way to a relentless need to uncover the real Dan. This search for truth drives the narrative, pulling readers into Liss’s internal struggle as she faces the possibility that the answers she seeks might not be the ones she desires. Riley masterfully paces the novel, blending emotional highs and lows with suspenseful twists. The push and pull of Liss and Dan’s relationship is marked by moments of heartache, hope, and intense passion, creating a dynamic that keeps readers fully engaged. The narrative tension is skillfully maintained, particularly through Dan’s mysterious disappearance, which adds an edge of unpredictability to the story. The richly depicted settings, from the Congo’s rugged landscapes to the urban hustle of New York, serve as more than just backdrops—they mirror the characters’ internal struggles and add layers of depth to the narrative. The strategic use of time gaps allows for significant character development, making the eventual reunion between Liss and Dan even more poignant and impactful. Riley’s portrayal of their intense romance, with its blend of tender and dramatic moments, showcases her talent for crafting a multifaceted and emotionally resonant story.
The Secret is a standout romance that delivers both emotional depth and narrative complexity. Riley’s ability to create relatable characters with genuine struggles and desires makes this novel a must-read for anyone looking for a romance that goes beyond the surface. With its intricate blend of mystery, heartache, and ultimate redemption, The Secret is a powerful testament to the resilience of love and the courage it takes to face the unknown.
Pages: 288 | ASIN : B0CLN8RCZX
Tribal Logic: Book Four of The Tribal Wars
In Tribal Logic, set in Dolvia, readers are reintroduced to the persevering Brianna Miller, who remains in captivity. Her friends, determined and unwavering, strive tirelessly for her release. Brianna’s courage and resilience have made her a symbol of strength among the other women. This time, the narrative spotlights Jesse Hartley, who emerges as a central figure skillfully navigating the tumultuous political landscape of their world. The stakes are higher than ever, with Jesse appearing as a potential savior in this intricate situation.
The book also delicately explores the evolving relationship between Jesse and Hershel Henry. Despite their shared goal of liberating the captives from the clutches of an oppressive company, their personal paths have significantly diverged, casting doubt on the future of their romance. As a reader who thoroughly enjoyed the third book in the series last year, I approached this with high expectations, which were fortunately met. For those familiar with the series Tribal Wars, this is the first book in a new trilogy that is part of the series. It does not disappoint readers with its exciting adventure and political intrigue. Newcomers to the series are encouraged to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the depth and evolution of the narrative. One of the book’s strengths lies in its character development, particularly in showcasing a female protagonist in a leading role. The story unfolds at a suspenseful pace, keeping readers eager to discover the characters’ fates. The novel’s rich tapestry of characters and its intricate plot add depth to the narrative, making it more engaging. While navigating through the large ensemble of characters may require some initial effort, the payoff is in the form of compelling dialogues and well-crafted individual character arcs that enrich the reading experience.
Tribal Logic: Book Four of The Tribal Wars is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure filled with complex character dynamics and political intrigue. This book is an excellent choice for anyone who loves well-crafted stories that blend action, suspense, and thought-provoking themes. With its engaging plot, relatable characters, and well-paced narrative, Tribal Logic is a must-read for any science fiction fan looking for an exciting and intelligent read.
Pages: 419 | ASIN : B0CW3VGXPM
The Neighbors
In this evocative tale, we’re introduced to Zoe, a dedicated maternity nurse who finds solace in structure and a meticulously curated routine. Her cautious demeanor hints at a shadowy past that has made trust a scarce commodity in her life. Yet, as she forges an unexpected bond with her enigmatic neighbors, Jensen and Terrence, we witness her gradual embrace of love’s transformative might.
This paranormal novel intriguingly juxtaposes the familiar trope of vampires with a fresh lens. Jensen and Terrence, despite their supernatural lineage, are neither overwhelmingly menacing nor dripping with charisma. Instead, the author paints them with strokes of vulnerability and human nuances. Such an interpretation not only lends depth to these characters but also leaves readers with tantalizing, unanswered questions, stirring curiosity rather than exasperation.
In this world, reality gracefully bows to the wondrous, encouraging readers to relinquish their skepticism and wholly immerse in its imaginative embrace. Certain plot points, like Zoe’s peculiar potato consumption or Jensen’s journey to self-acceptance, may appear offbeat, but they accentuate the distinctiveness of the relationships they forge. These moments underscore the message that healing from trauma is profoundly individual, defying comparison.
There are moments of high drama, epitomized by the relentless pursuit of Anthony. To elevate the narrative’s coherence, I think a touch more foreshadowing and nuanced character arcs culminating in the climactic scene in Zoe’s chamber would have been welcome.
In a genre brimming with tales of the undead, this novel distinguishes itself from the mundane. It eschews overt clichés, delving deep into the intricate webs of trust, love, and change. It’s a departure from the archetypal vampire narrative, offering a refreshing and heartening angle that establishes it as a mesmerizing read.
Pages: 180 | ASIN : B0CBX4GG7Y
LITERARY TITAN 