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The Ruinous Curse: The Hunt for Alesta
The Hunt for Alesta kicks off Mark K. McClain’s “The Ruinous Curse” series with the story of Barrett, a prince caught between duty, prophecy, and personal longing. As his kingdom teeters on the edge of war, Barrett discovers not only that magic might live inside him, but also that he’s at the heart of a much larger destiny. Alongside loyal friends Zanora, Gaia, and Unger, he battles dark forces, navigates hidden tunnels and magic festivals, and must decide whether to wield ancient power or follow a simpler path. The book weaves friendship, fear, and growing up into a quest full of danger and mythic weight.
What stood out most to me was how deeply human Barrett felt. He’s not some perfect hero. He hesitates, he doubts, and he fumbles through his feelings for Zanora like any teenager would. That made his story so much more relatable. The magic and world-building had a classic fantasy feel, but the dialogue kept it fresh. There’s a bit of whimsy here, like talking doors, cheeky magical creatures, and floating gossip orbs, but it’s grounded by the looming threat of war and the emotional weight of loss. McClain isn’t afraid to slow down for a tender moment or dive into darker territory.
The setup took a while, and while I enjoyed the time with the characters, I found myself itching for the real stakes to kick in. Still, once the action started, especially with the chase through Ashton and the reveal of Barrett’s power, I was hooked. There’s also a lot of prophecy talk, which can get a little heavy-handed, but it didn’t stop me from caring about the choices Barrett had to make. McClain manages to keep the story from veering into cliché by injecting heart into every turn, even when the tropes feel familiar.
The Hunt for Alesta is a heartfelt and imaginative coming-of-age story wrapped in the trappings of high fantasy. I’d recommend it to younger readers who loved the early Percy Jackson books or fans of coming-of-age tales in magical worlds like Eragon or the Earthsea Cycle. It’s for those who want magic with emotion, action with meaning, and friendships that feel real. It spins a tale worth following, and I’m excited to see where Barrett’s story goes next.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0B4V5BMLG
Imogen and The Silent Depths; The Sea Ghost Comes Book 1 of the Accursed Carnival Series
Angel Dunworth’s Imogen and the Silent Depths: The Sea Ghost Comes is the first book in The Accursed Carnival Series. It’s a whimsical and eerie tale that begins in a mysterious seaside town where a traveling carnival sets up camp against local warnings. The story spirals into a magical clash between mortal joy and ancient curses, led by a wicked sea witch named Omenthia. At the heart of the novel is Imogen, a carousel horse brought to life by accident, and perhaps fate, who must discover her true self to break the curse and restore the carnival. Alongside vibrant characters and a dash of folklore, the book charts a journey of identity, courage, and the deep magic hiding in forgotten places.
Dunworth’s prose has a sing-song lilt to it, often reminding me of a classic fairy tale, but with a sharp, modern twist. I liked the mood she created. It’s wistful one moment and spine-chilling the next. Imogen’s journey is emotionally honest, especially for a character who isn’t human. I found myself rooting for her in a way that surprised me. The dialogue could sometimes be overly expository, but the rhythm and tone carried it. I appreciated how the story never talked down to younger readers. It assumed they’d rise to the language, the mystery, and the moral weight of the tale.
There were moments where the pacing slowed, especially when side characters were introduced and quickly dropped. The narrative sometimes bounces between Maggie, Jove, the sea witch, and various side plots. Still, I never felt bored. If anything, the book seemed to burst with too many ideas rather than too few. Dunworth’s imagination is big, maybe even a little wild. And while not every idea landed for me, I admired her commitment to telling a big-hearted and deeply magical story.
Imogen and the Silent Depths is a story I’d recommend for readers young and old who still believe in hidden magic, talking horses, and the fight between good and evil. It’s ideal for fans of Neil Gaiman’s Coraline or Kate DiCamillo’s The Magician’s Elephant. This book is a reminder that even overlooked things can become heroes.
Pages: 182 | ASIN: B0F8KVZWC4
The Monster Hunter: Book One of the Hunter Archive
Monster Hunter follows sixteen-year-old Ollie Baxter, a sharp-tongued village kid with big dreams and a knack for landing himself in trouble. What begins as a seemingly ordinary fishing contest spirals into a fantastical journey full of monsters, mayhem, and mystery. When Ollie encounters a shape-shifting bear-man named Bjorn and learns of his late parents’ ties to a secretive monster-hunting school called Dragonspire, his world cracks open. With danger lurking in every dark tunnel and the secrets of his past bubbling to the surface, Ollie must choose whether to stick with the safety of the known or charge headfirst into a life full of wild creatures, ancient powers, and truths he isn’t ready for, but might just be meant for.
I had a blast reading this. The writing is bold, unafraid to get messy, and that worked in its favor. It felt like sitting around a campfire while someone with a big imagination spun a yarn that got more thrilling with each twist. The pacing was lively, the voice was invigorating, and the monsters were equal parts scary and cool. What stood out most to me was Ollie himself. He’s stubborn and impulsive, but not in that annoying YA protagonist way. He’s got bite, but he’s also got heart. I found myself rooting for him. The dialogue had real spark, especially between Ollie and the older, gruff Bjorn. Their back-and-forth gave the story a warm thread of humor that grounded the action.
But what really resonated with me was the heart behind the chaos. There’s a surprising amount of emotion tucked between the monster fights and school invitations. The story touches on grief, identity, and found family. It got to me, especially the parts about Ollie’s parents and the weight of not knowing the whole story. The worldbuilding was solid, too. Familiar enough not to confuse, fresh enough to feel exciting.
Monster Hunter is a total joyride. It’s for anyone who grew up loving monster encyclopedias or who imagined secret schools hiding behind waterfalls. It’s for teens craving adventure and grown-ups who miss the magic of being sixteen and sure they were meant for something more. It’s loud, fast, funny, and a little rough around the edges, in the best way. I’d happily follow Ollie into the dark again.
Pages: 332 | ASIN: B0F7Q2BH3N
Wolfhound: The King’s Hounds Book I
Wolfhound is a gritty and heart-wrenching fantasy tale that follows Cassian, the leader of a King’s Hound team—elite enforcers of royal justice in the kingdom of Fentia. When a mission to arrest a treacherous baron goes terribly wrong, Cassian is forced into a desperate escape that leaves him with nothing but the duty to report the betrayal and the weight of lost comrades. Along the way, he crosses paths with a scrappy, abused orphan boy named Theo, and what begins as a simple act of mercy turns into a test of Cassian’s soul. The story weaves together themes of loyalty, honor, justice, and grief with an emotionally raw and action-packed narrative.
Austin Davis knows how to keep your heart pounding with intense action scenes that don’t let up, but what surprised me most was how emotionally resonant it was. Cassian isn’t some one-note hero; he’s wrecked and angry, grieving and fiercely loyal. I felt every moment of his pain and frustration. The writing strikes a balance between immersive world-building and intimate character focus. Davis doesn’t get lost in fantasy tropes. Instead, he pulls you into the dirt and grit of being a King’s Hound. I especially loved the way he handled Theo—what could’ve been a tired “rescued orphan” trope felt alive, vulnerable, and earned.
Some scenes, especially action-heavy ones, occasionally ran long. But those dips are minor compared to how invested I was. I laughed at Cassian’s sarcasm, teared up more than once (no shame), and fist-pumped when justice was served. The dialogue felt natural and snappy, with a good amount of humor even in the darkest moments. Most of all, I appreciated that this wasn’t just a fantasy adventure—it was a meditation on loss, found family, and the cost of doing the right thing when it’s hard. And the horses? Don’t even get me started. I’d follow Strider into battle, no question.
If you’re into emotionally charged fantasy with grounded characters and a dash of political intrigue, Wolfhound will be right up your alley. I’d recommend it to fans of Joe Abercrombie, Brandon Sanderson’s grittier moments, or anyone who loves loyalty tested in the fire. It’s perfect for readers who want more heart than high magic, more scars than spells. Just don’t expect to walk away without feeling something deep in your chest.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0F8FS1HYD
Entertaining and Uplifting
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The Aswan Device follows two sisters whose father creates a parallel reality disrupting their own, and they must rely on each other to save their world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am not really sure. Much of this story was written while I sat down at my computer with the intention of creating a sequel that would be both entertaining and uplifting for young people, and I allowed the words to flow through me and onto the page. The real work for me came in the editing and trying to make sense of what I’d typed.
That being said, I am a huge Star Wars and Marvels Universe fan, so inspiration could have been drawn from these amazing works.
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?
From my travels. . .
I first learned about the concept of inner-earth beings on a bus tour to Reno, Nevada twenty-three years ago. Our bus stopped at a park with large stone circles where they believed inner-earth beings were close to the surface. This inspired me to dig further.
The folklore of many First Nations cultures depicts their ancestors living within the earth. For example, the Hopi origin story has it that the Hopis used to live beneath the earth and emerged from the Grand Canyon. I traveled to the Grand Canyon to experience this place of wonder for myself. The Grand Canyon plunges so far below that it is easy to envision ancient people emerging from its depths.
The intra-earth city, Mu, in The Intra-Earth Chronicles;Book II:The Aswan Device, was modeled after places I’d seen on my travels to both Egypt and Peru; Mu is nestled on a mesa surrounded by mountains and jungle much like Machu Picchu in Peru and has pyramids like the great pyramids of Egypt.
The inspiration for Aswan, the luminous orange planet, came from my love of Planet Jupiter.
I am also a fan of the History Channel’s Ancient Aliens, and there is an episode about the possibility of advanced civilizations existing beneath the earth’s crust. There’s a lot of great inspiration for Sci-fi writers from that television show.
The multiple settings became more detailed and complex in this second installment of the series!
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers of characters. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
I had so many characters in so many different settings, in order to develop each character and place fully, I couldn’t spend too much time on any one character’s magical powers. I hope I succeeded in that delicate balance! 😊
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I haven’t begun Book III yet, but I have a feeling that Sasha, Adrianne, the two Aswan Cadets, and Desoto will travel to other planets within the galaxy to experience how they are governed and have achieved peace and co-exist within the greater system of galaxies. Their travels will also lead them back to our own planet to study many more peaceful Intra-earth Civilizations.
Sasha and Adrianne will learn more about the Prophecy and will have to choose whether to accept or deny their destiny of becoming Lords of the Twelve Worlds.
My intent is that this will be an exciting and uplifting adventure filled with humor. 🙂
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
During his escape from the intra-earth, Tartarus disrupts Mu’s spinning magnetic power source, causing explosive bursts of energy to erupt onto the surface. This disruption tears the fabric of time and creates a doorway into a parallel reality. In this new reality, Tartarus reinstates the nuclear machine and positions himself as Earth’s savior in place of the sisters. With unlimited power and resources at his disposal, will Sasha and Adrianne ever be able to stop him?
In The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson, we experience a fast-paced fantasy adventure where love and friendship prove to be the strongest weapons of all.
TWO CROWNS, THREE BLADES
In the wake of Madam Dunn’s death, Sibil declares her intent to join the army, openly vowing to strike against The Guild. Whispers of a young woman wielding a dagger adorned with a red-jeweled bone handle, slaying giants, tangle with rumors of the Wisperal’s return. Are these two tales connected? The narrative unfolds as an unlikely duo—a determined girl and an aging man—embarks on a perilous journey through a tumultuous world. Together, they navigate dangers and surprises, pursuing separate but intertwined goals.
Two Crowns, Three Blades, which is book two in The Legends of Baelon by Robert A. Walker, delivers a sprawling and intricate plot, anchored by engaging characters and formidable challenges. From a deadly pact to eliminate two kings to the intricacies of battle strategies, the novel seizes readers’ attention with its high-stakes missions and life-or-death gambits. The war strategies stand out as a highlight, evoking the grandeur of Tolkien’s beloved fantasy epics like The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Discussions of medieval tactics—from bracing for volleys of arrows to weighing the risks of cavalry against spiked barriers—are rich with detail and lend authenticity to the book’s action sequences.
Walker’s prose vividly captures the world through his characters’ eyes, immersing readers in the unfolding drama. His ability to bring even minor characters to life is evident through meticulous descriptions, such as the “small curved nose, taut cheeks, and thin lips” of a striking female figure. These details ground the fantastical setting in a sense of realism. The Wisperal herself is a standout element, shrouded in an aura of awe and menace. Rumors paint her as a giant slayer, a figure who hunts the wicked and delivers them “to Baelon below.” Her mythic presence elevates the stakes and deepens the intrigue, making her one of the story’s most compelling elements.
The abundance of characters—kings, enemies, and allies—woven into an intricate web of missions and alliances will appeal to readers who seek a rich, character-driven saga. Walker crafts a tale brimming with twists, suspense, and engaging fantasy elements. Fans of intricate political intrigue, thrilling action, and clever strategic planning will find much to enjoy. Two Crowns, Three Blades offers a captivating blend of epic adventure and imaginative storytelling.
Pages: 393 | ASIN : B0DRFF2V9D
The Intra-Earth Chronicles; Book II: The Aswan Device
Deep within the Earth’s core lies a world of astonishing beauty and relentless strife, where two sisters, Adrianne and Sasha, bear the burden of a fractured kingdom and a legacy marred by betrayal. Their father, Tartarus, deposed yet dangerous, shatters their fragile peace by stealing a device designed to heal their fractured world. Forced into a perilous quest, Adrianne and Sasha confront not only external threats but also the unspoken tensions that threaten to divide them. Adrianne, impulsive and eager to prove herself, wrestles with her fiery temper and desire to escape Sasha’s shadow. Meanwhile, Sasha, steady and wise, strives to hold their tenuous alliance together. As they traverse dangerous landscapes and a parallel Earth where Tartarus has claimed dominion, their resilience shines. Yet the question looms: can their bond withstand the trials ahead, or will their differences tear them apart at the moment they need each other most?
The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson is an extraordinary fusion of mythology, science fiction, and family drama, weaving a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional. Set in an intricately crafted subterranean world, the novel follows royal sisters Adrianne and Sasha as they grapple with their father’s dark legacy while navigating the crumbling societies above and below ground. Their mission to recover the stolen nuclear device, a symbol of hope and survival, tests their love, rivalry, and endurance.
Jacobson balances adventure with emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates with readers. The reimagining of Tartarus, blending ancient mythology with futuristic elements, immediately captivates, and the seamless integration of these themes into a high-stakes narrative is nothing short of brilliant. The juxtaposition of mythological resonance with cutting-edge technology crafts a storyscape that is both unique and compelling.
The protagonists, Adrianne and Sasha, stand out as vivid, multidimensional characters. Adrianne’s fiery determination and Sasha’s empathetic wisdom create a sibling dynamic that is as relatable as it is engaging. Their interactions capture the essence of siblinghood, brimming with frustration, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Tartarus, as the antagonist, is a commanding presence—a complex figure whose ambition and moral decay echo timeless themes of power and corruption. The supporting cast further enriches the narrative, offering moments of levity and depth, while the interplay among characters ensures readers are emotionally invested in their journeys. Jacobson’s technical expertise shines through her lush world-building and evocative prose.
For fans of Rick Riordan and the Percy Jackson series, The Aswan Device is an absolute must-read. With its fast-paced adventure, rich character development, and thematic complexity, it stands as a standout entry in the genre. Perfect for young adult and middle-grade readers, this book’s blend of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology ensures an unforgettable experience. Whether drawn to epic quests, futuristic worlds, or the intricate dynamics of sibling relationships, readers will find The Aswan Device to be an engaging and deeply satisfying journey.
Pages: 185 | ASIN : B0DK26ZY5S
LITERARY TITAN 