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Servant
Servant is a supernatural fantasy novel that blends family drama, ancient mystery, and time-crossed storytelling. The book follows two threads that eventually begin to echo one another: Zach, a middle-school kid from the Keane family who vanishes from his house under eerie circumstances, and Akolo, a boy living centuries earlier whose life is marked by war, trauma, and the demands of kings. As Zach’s family searches for him in the present day, he finds himself wandering through stone hallways, oil-lit corridors, and a world that feels pulled straight from his dad’s archaeology stories. Meanwhile, Akolo faces his own captivity in a foreign palace controlled by a ruler who insists he will “need” him. Both boys are caught in places where power, fear, and destiny collide. By the time the book reaches its epilogue, the story has cracked wide open into something larger, hinting at deep magic, interwoven timelines, and a house that is far more alive than anyone wants to admit.
I found myself pulled in by the writing style. It’s simple on the surface but has this steady emotional current running underneath. The authors don’t rush. They let each moment breathe. Even the small scenes, a father making coffee, a daughter complaining about pizza for breakfast, or the house creaking in the early morning, carry a sense of “something is happening here,” even if you can’t name it yet. I liked that. It made me feel like I was sitting inside the Keanes’ home, overhearing bits of life while the bigger mystery brewed just out of sight. And then we cut to Akolo’s story, which feels raw and grounded and ancient. Those chapters landed hardest for me. His fear. His confusion. The way he clutches the jeweled stone in his pocket just to feel connected to something familiar.
I also appreciated the author’s choices around pacing and perspective. Switching between timelines can easily feel gimmicky, but here it feels purposeful. Zach’s modern confusion mirrors Akolo’s ancient disorientation, and that parallel makes the supernatural elements feel earned. I liked how the book doesn’t give its secrets away too quickly. We get hints, symbols carved into doors, fog in places fog shouldn’t be, Marshall knowing more than he says, but the authors trust the reader to sit in the unknown for a while. That kind of patience is rare, and honestly, refreshing. The emotional beats hit hardest because they’re framed by that tension: the Keane parents’ terror when Zach goes missing, Ariel’s mix of resentment and fear, Akolo’s grief for his family, Marshall’s haunted loyalty to forces he doesn’t entirely understand. All of it builds toward that late-book shake of the earth, where the house itself moves as though waking up.
Servant doesn’t wrap everything up, but it feels like a middle chapter that knows exactly what it is. I’d recommend this book to readers who love supernatural fantasy with a human heart, people who enjoy stories about families surviving strange things, or anyone who likes time-slip mysteries tied to ancient cultures. If you want something atmospheric, character-driven, and a little eerie without tipping into horror, this one will hit the spot.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B0FQ5ZGH1R
Death of a Blue Jay
Death of a Blue Jay is an intriguing novel that captures the essence of human resilience and spiritual introspection. Author Nicholas D’Souza weaves a narrative that invites readers into a reflective journey marked by poignant symbolism and philosophical musings. The story unfolds through a series of events that challenge Jeremy Martin to confront his past and embrace the nuances of life and faith. This is all framed by a mystical and somewhat tragic ambiance.
D’Souza’s writing style stands out with its poetic undertones and rich descriptive elements. This creates a vivid tapestry of scenes that tug at the heartstrings. The language heightens the emotional gravity of the plot, making each chapter resonate with a palpable sense of purpose and introspection. The book’s dialogue is steeped in authenticity. The dialogue furthers the thematic depth and showcases D’Souza’s ability to craft conversations that are both meaningful and moving.
While the novel’s philosophical leanings are its strength, at times I felt the philosophical asides occasionally disrupted the pacing. However, these moments also serve as the book’s most illuminating and provide readers with a chance to pause and reflect on the themes presented.
Death of a Blue Jay is a thoughtful, if not intense, exploration of life’s fragility and the human capacity for spiritual and emotional growth. This book will appeal to those who enjoy novels that challenge their way of thinking and open up avenues for personal reflection. It’s especially suited for readers who are drawn to stories that blend psychological depth with a strong moral and philosophical backbone. D’Souza offers a unique literary experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
Pages: 438 | ASIN : B0CXD277FY
Caretaker (The Goodpasture Chronicles)
Caretaker, the first installment in The Goodpasture Chronicles by R.J. Halbert, is an intriguing blend of historical mystery, family drama, and supernatural elements. The story follows Ian and Lyana Keane, a couple who move with their children to a mysterious old house in a small town, hoping for a fresh start after a series of personal losses. As they settle into their new home, they begin to uncover the secrets of the house and its connection to the enigmatic Goodpasture family, leading them on a journey that intertwines the past with their present.
What immediately stands out in Caretaker is Halbert’s ability to create a sense of place. The descriptions of the Goodpasture house and the small town of Littleton are vivid, almost cinematic, making it easy to imagine the sprawling gardens, the eerie, fog-laden driveway, and the antique-filled rooms of the old mansion. The house itself is practically a character in the story, with its creaking floors, hidden rooms, and a mysterious caretaker who seems to know more than he lets on. Halbert does an excellent job of building an atmosphere that is both inviting and unsettling, pulling the reader deeper into the mystery. The character development in the book is another strong point. Lyana, in particular, is a well-drawn character whose struggles with her past and hopes for her family’s future make her relatable and compelling. Her journey from skepticism to belief, as she encounters the house’s strange phenomena, is handled with subtlety and care. The dynamic between the Keane family members, especially between Lyana and her children, adds depth to the story and grounds the supernatural elements in a very human experience. The flashbacks to Lyana’s childhood, although sometimes jarring, effectively build her backstory and explain her motivations. The story thoughtfully takes its time in the beginning, richly establishing the setting and characters, which allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the world before diving into the central mystery. As the plot progresses, the pace accelerates, drawing you deeper into the unfolding events. The buildup of tension is masterfully handled, leading to satisfying revelations that keep readers engaged while also leaving just enough unanswered questions to create anticipation for future installments.
Caretaker is a captivating read that blends elements of mystery, history, and the supernatural into a story about family, loss, and the search for new beginnings. R.J. Halbert’s skillful storytelling and rich descriptions make it an enjoyable journey, particularly for readers who appreciate a slow-burn mystery with emotional depth. I would recommend this book to fans of gothic fiction, haunted house stories, and those who enjoy a well-crafted family drama with a touch of the supernatural.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0D15KJXBR
A Sense of Purpose
Darien Shockra & The Bermuda Triangle follows three friends living in Bermuda who are unaware of their destiny to become the protectors of the universe till their 21st birthday when their unique abilities emerge. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
One of the main inspirations for writing this story was living through a near-death experience when my appendix burst in 2011. I left it for 4 days before going to the hospital, which was a silly thing to do. Once I recovered and was well enough to leave the hospital, I was inspired to write a book, which I wanted to do for a long time.
I decided that while I was not working and in further recovery I would start to write a book that consisted of a cross between fiction and personal experiences that I wanted to share in a relatable way. My mother passed away from cancer when I was 21 years old, so I felt this was an age where I had to grow as a person in many aspects of my life. It was a time where I transitioned as a person to find my own unique abilities which emerged as I learned more about myself and my capabilities.
My near-death health ordeal occurred just after the final release of the last Harry Potter film. At the time, I was a senior support worker for mental health and special needs clients. One of those clients with Downs Syndrome was a huge Harry Potter fan, and I would take him to the cinema to watch all of the Harry Potter series. In turn, I appreciated J.K. Rowling’s creation, and the three friends were inspired by her concept.
After writing several chapters, and life “getting in the way,” I parked the book idea intending to return to it at some point. Then in 2020, I wanted to revisit the book and continue with the journey. I remembered that the reason I became a huge fan of fiction/fantasy/urban fantasy was due to my dear high school friend, Stefan, who introduced me to Dragonlance: The Chronicles, by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. I was hooked! I knew that Stefan also wrote, both of us mostly writing lyrics for songs and poetry, amongst others, but I felt that if we collaborated this story could go in a direction that was much greater than doing it alone. I am so glad that Stefan accepted because we have rekindled our age-long relationship and have been able to do what we love while sharing it with the world.
When Darien, Ecio, and Serenity wake up on their 21st birthday, they find out they are not who they thought they were, and they are destined to save the universe. What were the driving ideals behind the characters’ development throughout the story?
I think there is something amazing about being surprised when you receive a gift that is unexpected and special and that brings you a sense of purpose. I know that I would never be able to “save the universe,” however, writing to create characters that may do just that offers Stefan and me a sense of hope.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
Although we have briefly touched on the supernatural powers of each character, we wanted to start off slowly by having our readers ease into
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for the three friends and the direction of the second book?
We can definitely let you know that we are building momentum so that part 2 maintains a compelling storyline with the introduction of some new characters that add to the journey.
It will not be easy for Darien, Ecio, and Serenity. In our story, we look to bake in life experiences that people can relate to or learn from. This will hold true for the three friends and the other supporting characters.
Without giving too much away, the three friends still need to understand and learn about their newfound powers, along with understanding themselves. They also need to learn how to work together as one collective. Each character is a unique individual with their own strengths and weaknesses, which will become apparent in part 2.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Darien Shockra, Ecio Ohm and Serenity Ken wake up on their 21st birthday on the island of Bermuda, they discover that they have become the destined successors of the Tritem to restore Universal balance…and that time portals offer a means of travel. Up until now, they have been blissfully unaware of their inherited roles and that their lives are about to change forever.
Evil is hell bent on destroying Darien Shockra and the Tritem… mainly focusing on Darien Shockra.. Why?
Join Darien and his friends on an epic adventure as they travel the Universe to try and restore balance, learning invaluable lessons along the way…
Honoring My Best Friend
Infinity Tales follows a seemingly ordinary cat who, after a series of mysterious events, ends up on a journey to help alleviate sadness in humans. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
What inspired Leo in The Dark series and inspired me to write his stand-alone story was my real-life cat Tiggie. Tiggie came into my life during an uncertain time and helped me through it by just being there. He also had a rough life. He was more to me than just a pet, he was my best friend. When I had to make the difficult decision to ease his pain and let him cross the rainbow bridge, it hit me hard. The best way I could honor him was to write parts of his personality into Leo. Not only did I want to honor Tiggie, but I also wanted to honor all felines as I’ve been around cats my whole life. It was difficult to write, but I’m glad I didn’t give up.
In fantasy novels it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
Although Leo becomes supernatural that helps drive the story-line, my focus remained on the fact that he’s a cat and thinks differently than humans, even if he has some human qualities. Even though he may not be a normal cat, he still stays true to his self, taking the time to learn and understand the world around him along with his purpose.
What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
The most important personification of Leo was to think like a cat. To write the story through a feline’s perspective. Cats are often misunderstood for their independent personalities and odd behaviors. My hope is readers are able to view cats through a different lens and be able to understand them a little better as they all have unique personalities just like us humans.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m working on editing the last book in The Dark series as well as a memoir of my journey as an author. I’m hoping they will be both available by the end of 2024 if not then early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website | Amazon
Infinity Tales
Infinity Tales, by M.C. Ryder, offers a captivating and unique narrative, presenting the world through the eyes of Leo, a seemingly ordinary cat. Leo spends his days in leisurely pursuits, primarily focused on food and his human companion. However, his tranquil life is upended by a series of mysterious events, thrusting him into a journey filled with love, loss, and adventure. Leo must transcend his ordinary existence to protect those he cares about, becoming far more than just a regular cat.
M.C. Ryder skillfully portrays human experiences and struggles from Leo’s feline perspective, creating a constantly evolving story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Leo’s viewpoint is a bold and intriguing choice for narration, providing a fresh angle on The Dark Series. His limited understanding of human complexities enrich the narrative with a distinctive and engaging charm. The thematic exploration of love, loss, and family is beautifully woven throughout the tale, making it a heartwarming and thought-provoking read. Ryder’s ability to breathe new life into a familiar story through an unconventional narrator is commendable. Leo’s feline perspective and his perception of the world add a fascinating layer to the storytelling.
Infinity Tales is a delightful read for fans of The Dark Series, fantasy enthusiasts, and cat lovers alike. M.C. Ryder’s innovative approach and willingness to think outside the box result in a truly memorable story. This novel not only captivates but also challenges readers to see the world from a different angle. I eagerly anticipate more works from authors like Ryder, who dare to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0D1J2BVMT
A Sinister Love
In A Sinister Love, by Spencer Hixon, we are introduced to Scribble, a demoness abruptly reassigned from her mundane clerical duties to a role she never anticipated: a Sinister on Earth. Tasked with tempting her assigned human, Paul, into sinning, Scribble struggles not from a lack of cunning, but because she tends to talk more than she tempts. Deciding that a physical presence might improve her odds, she assumes a succubus body with the help of her enigmatic new boss. As Scribble navigates her new form, she not only charms Paul into offering her a job but also grows unexpectedly close to him, leading to unforeseen emotional complications. Is her discomfort due to the new body, or could she be falling for a human?
Hixon’s portrayal of Scribble as an avid reader adds an unexpected layer of relatability to the demoness, making her journey from timidity to bravery quite compelling. Similarly, Paul is a thoughtfully crafted character whose struggles with mental health add depth and relevance to the narrative. The character of Rotworm is vividly realized—his sleazy demeanor is palpable, yet he delivers surprises that leave readers eager for more. While the novel excels in character development and a gripping plot, I feel that some areas seemed a bit underexplored and could benefit from further elaboration. Despite these minor gaps, this book remains a highly engaging read, especially for those who appreciate a blend of supernatural elements with human emotional dilemmas. Hixon’s work is a commendable addition to the genre, promising a level of intrigue that will keep readers looking forward to the next installment.
Spencer Hixon’s A Sinister Love masterfully blends the supernatural with the profoundly human, crafting a narrative that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Through the eyes of Scribble, a demoness finding her footing among humans, readers are treated to a story that challenges the traditional boundaries of genre fiction. This book is sure to delight those who enjoy tales of personal growth, supernatural intrigue, and the complexities of love, making it a worthy addition to any reader’s collection.
Pages: 344 | ASIN : B0D1F6FS5K
Mercy on Your Soul
Mercy on Your Soul, by H. M. Mills, follows Mercy, a character who is part demon and part angel, allowing her to navigate both hell and heaven. Lucifer desires to make Mercy his queen to exploit her ability to access heaven and overthrow God. However, Mercy is in love with someone else and refuses Lucifer’s proposition. In response, he and his demons pursue her, while archangels, intent on thwarting Lucifer, seek to eliminate her. Aware of the peril she faces, Mercy goes on the run with her beloved and friends, some of whom are human, seeking assistance to ensure her survival and freedom.
The novel falls within the supernatural genre, featuring characters like demons, Satan, and angels. It is set in France, the United Kingdom, and various realms beyond Earth. The narrative highlights the rewards of taking a challenging path. Mercy had the option to mate-bond with Talus, eliminating her demonic side and rendering her useless to Lucifer, but she chose to fight and preserve herself until she was ready. When she eventually bonds with Talus, it is wholehearted and without regret.
A major strength of the book lies in its dual narrative perspectives, using both third and first person. Mercy narrates her story, offering readers valuable insight into her character. The third-person viewpoint allows the author to cover events outside Mercy’s realm, providing a broader overview of the story. The ending, which leaves readers wondering about the future of Mercy and Talus’s relationship, is also compelling. The introduction of numerous characters throughout the book adds depth, occasionally encouraging readers to revisit certain sections to fully appreciate their roles.
Mercy on Your Soul, by H. M. Mills, provides an engaging narrative filled with supernatural elements, compelling character perspectives, and a storyline that emphasizes the rewards of choosing a challenging path. With its unique mix of viewpoints and intriguing ending, the novel captivates readers while encouraging them to dive deeper into its richly woven tale.
Pages: 400 | ASIN : B08XWPWJ2F
LITERARY TITAN 