Blog Archives
The Last Sovereign
AJ Bugayong’s novel, The Last Sovereign, immerses readers in the fantastical realm of Shandria, a land still recovering from the devastating incursion of Ras’ Drayev, the Sovereign of the Abyss, and his dark Horde. This narrative, set a decade after these events, follows the journey of Lana, the daughter of King Filius Tel’redor, revered as the ‘Sovereign Slayer’ for his sacrifices in the prior conflict. Lana, at eighteen, grapples with the weight of her father’s legacy, honing her nascent abilities under the tutelage of the Allegiant, warriors who once fought alongside her father. The story gains momentum when Lana’s powers unintentionally reveal Ras’ Drayev’s Black Citadel, leading to her training being entrusted to the Grand Slayer, a figure renowned for his heroics and survival against the Horde. Lana’s path intersects with Grim’fandiel, or Grim, a complex character burdened by his past and current turmoil within the Allegiant council. The plot thickens as Grim uncovers a sinister plot by the council’s head, threatening Lana’s safety as she is destined to become the next sovereign.
Bugayong skillfully constructs a world where futuristic technology and medieval traditions coexist, creating a dynamic backdrop for the story. The narrative is enriched with elements of magic, advanced technology, and a blend of both in the lives of the ‘civs.’ The lore of Shandria is meticulously crafted, featuring gods, legendary battles, and enchanted swords, all vividly described to immerse the reader fully. The novel does not shy away from darker themes, presenting scenes of intense horror and suspense that are balanced with moments of light-hearted humor, love, and tenderness. This juxtaposition adds depth to the story, providing relief amidst the high-stakes drama. The character of Belle, the White Knight, adds a unique dynamic to the narrative, serving as comic relief while also challenging readers’ perceptions. Her portrayal as a righteous soldier juxtaposed with her more materialistic traits introduces an intriguing complexity to the story, enriching the tapestry of characters.
The Last Sovereign is a compelling blend of fantasy, science fiction, and horror elements, making it a captivating read for enthusiasts of epic adventures. Bugayong has masterfully crafted a rich and immersive world filled with intricate details, that is sure to captivate readers. The characters are complex, with multifaceted personalities and individual motivations that add depth to the story. The promise of such an engaging experience has readers eagerly anticipating future installments in this series.
Pages: 442 | ASIN : B0C6QZPY7Y
The Girl Who Broke the Dark
In The Girl Who Broke the Dark, Evelyn Puerto presents Princess Eliana of Ymittos, a character yearning for autonomy amidst the strictures imposed by her lineage and destiny. Born with the ability to wield potent magic, Eliana finds herself confined by the rigorous demands of her tutors and the expectations of her royal heritage. Her narrative begins to unfold as she approaches her 18th birthday, revealing a daunting quest set before her: to venture into the perilous realm of Malkh, confront its mythical denizens, and break a century-long curse binding a prince to slumber. The stakes are high; failure means empowering Cetus, a formidable necromancer poised to cast Ymittos into an era of darkness.
Puerto’s novel is a creative reimagining of “Sleeping Beauty,” steeped in the shadows of dark fantasy. It’s a story unafraid to explore grim realities and the complexities of its characters. While Eliana’s struggle against the constraints of her world mirrors familiar themes in fantasy literature, her journey is also a distinct exploration of personal growth and rebellion against societal norms. Her magical abilities symbolize a broader narrative of self-discovery and the quest for independence, resonating particularly with younger audiences who are navigating their own paths.
The narrative’s vitality largely stems from its antagonist, Cetus. With a compelling presence and nuanced motivations, he provides a stark contrast to Eliana, whose character, while relatable, occasionally feels underexplored. Cetus’s multifaceted nature not only enriches the story but also elevates the stakes of Eliana’s mission.
Although The Girl Who Broke the Dark may exhibit moments of rawness in its delivery, its core is a captivating blend of adventure, mystique, and the timeless battle between light and darkness. Readers will find themselves eager for subsequent installments, anticipating further development in Eliana’s character and the fantastical world of Ymittos. Puerto’s novel promises a journey filled with enchantment, peril, and the enduring allure of discovering one’s true power.
Pages: 402 | ASIN : B0CK6F1TBW
The Soul of Chaos
Gregory Wunderlin’s The Soul of Chaos, part of the Litanies of the Lost Star series, offers an intriguing foray into a fantasy landscape marked by apocalyptic themes and a fusion of technology and magic. Set in a dystopian world ruled by dark gods, the narrative revolves around Rurik, a royal descendant tasked with the monumental responsibility of saving his land. This novel stands out for its rich language and successful blending of genres, defying easy classification into a single category.
Wunderlin skillfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, including the likes of Kali and Rurik, each bringing their unique perspectives and stories to the forefront. The author’s adeptness in world-building is commendable; he constructs a vivid, intricate universe from scratch, a feat that often poses a challenge even for seasoned writers. The immersive quality of the storytelling kept me engaged throughout. The innovative aspects and the authentically portrayed characters in The Soul of Chaos are commendable. The pacing of the novel presents a varied rhythm, with some chapters unfolding at a contemplative pace that offers a thoughtful contrast to the more action-packed or intense scenes. This variation in tempo adds a unique dynamic to the narrative’s flow.
The Soul of Chaos captivated me, largely due to the author’s eloquent language and the intricate development of the characters. This novel stands out as an excellent introduction for newcomers to fantasy and a delightful read for long-time enthusiasts. The Soul of Chaos has sparked an eagerness to explore the rest of the series, reflecting its growing appeal to me.
Pages: 431 | ASIN : B0CCYLTQRM
Argren Blue
In Argren Blue: A Spirit Song Story by Ross Hightower & Deb Heim, readers are immersed in a gripping fantasy tale filled with resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of freedom. The story unfolds with Alar, a character burning with determination to free Argren, joining a resistance movement. Despite facing numerous setbacks and doubts about their impact under the oppressive Empire, the group remains steadfast in their mission.
The plot thickens with the introduction of newfound abilities within the group, leading them on a daring mission to free prisoners from the Empire’s grasp. Under the guidance of an imperial witch, this mission rekindles their hope but also attracts dangerous attention from the Empire.
Parallel to this, Harold Wolfe, a persecuted half-breed, finds himself entangled in a complex plot orchestrated by a powerful inquisitor. His journey is a labyrinth of rebel alliances, assassins, and political intrigue, making his quest for truth and freedom all the more perilous.
As the narrative progresses, Alar and his allies confront their adversaries with unyielding courage, embodying themes of justice and resistance. The story is a rich tapestry of complex character dynamics and vividly portrays a struggle against tyranny.
The character of Alar is particularly compelling, showcasing a journey of self-discovery and untapped potential reminiscent of legendary heroes. His development throughout the story highlights the universal theme of hidden greatness within individuals.
In contrast, Harold Wolfe’s journey deeply explores identity and purpose. His inner conflicts and quest for self-understanding underscore the notion that our origins do not define us entirely, delving into themes of belonging and the complexity of individual identity.
Argren Blue is a commendable coming-of-age fantasy novel for its robust, believable world-building and character development. The inclusion of a glossary aids in navigating the richly detailed setting. The story masterfully balances suspense with the unfolding plot, making it a compelling read for fans of fantasy and adventure. This novel is a vivid journey through a world where the fight for freedom and identity resonates profoundly with the reader.
Pages: 463 | ASIN : B0BXB3MV5Z
Six Moons, Seven Gods
In Robert A. Walker’s Six Moons, Seven Gods, loyalty and treachery entwine, friendships are tested, and dangerous secrets are held close to the heart. As deadly schemes unfold, an assassin’s life takes unexpected turns. At the same time, old acquaintances are revived from oblivion, and cryptic messages are delivered in this powerful plot that’s filled with many uncertainties. Additionally, rumors of murder spread about the land and threaten all who dwell within its borders. In this mystical world, chaos is propagated by the one sworn to the people, a daring assassination is set in motion, and the fate of a powerful captive is left yet to be decided. Six Moons, Seven Gods is a political tale that involves an intriguing mix of characters, including lovers, assassins, rulers, thieves, and a dreamer.
Robert A. Walker weaves themes of action, power, friendship, and love to create a brilliant, compelling narrative that hooks the reader from start to finish. I found myself turning the pages quickly as I couldn’t wait to unravel the next part of the plot. I especially enjoyed the author’s depiction of caramadie and friendship, as the characters are seen joking and teasing one another with statements like “You couldn’t rob a blind man if he left his doors unlocked.” Furthermore, the vivid descriptions make it a joy to picture the characters. For example, one character is described as having “chiseled facial features, skin browned by the sun, and thick crown of black curly hair.”
Six Moons, Seven Gods is told through multiple perspectives and involves various characters from different walks of life. I especially like Mari, as she blacks out and has visions that make her seem mysterious and intriguing. This is also the first book in the Legends of Baelon series, so keep in mind that this novel is setting up the whole series.
Fans of books set in a medieval, magical world will be captivated by this book. Amidst assassination plots and arrow attacks, visionary characters and mystical incidents leave you with suspense and deep questions that keep you turning the pages for more. Readers will find themselves laughing, their hearts racing, and their minds engaged with its intricate plot.
Pages: 307 | ASIN : B0CJ5ZG487
Found Family
Queen of Deception follows a woman who dies and comes back to life as a child with all her memories from her past life, into the world of her favorite fantasy novel. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Reincarnation has always been an interesting subject for me. I even have it as a part of my Helena Hawthorn series. There is just something about the idea of being reborn into a new life after death that I absolutely love.
The inspiration for Queen of Deception came from feeling listless during the pandemic. I was pregnant with my first son and on a publishing hiatus. In Asian countries, it is a much more explored subject, and there is plenty of media that covers it. So, I dived head-first into Japanese Manga, Korean Manhwa, Light Novels, and Anime. At some point, I could not find what I wanted and decided to write a story of my own, telling the tale of morally grey characters that do not revolve around only romance.
Since I have always been a fan of Fantasy, it wasn’t hard to put together Emilia’s new world. What was difficult was all the research, which is still ongoing, that comes with the story.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
I wanted each of the characters to have their strengths and flaws.
Emilia is strong-willed, determined, and kind to those she deems close to her, but she has also lived through years of abuse and is bitter from that horrible experience. It is very hard to reach her heart.
Laurence is a character who takes life as it comes, but deep down, he resents himself for the life he lives. I always find his emotional journey surprising with each book.
And lastly, Prince Thessian—he is a guardian of the Hellion Empire his family has built and maintained. He is a man who had to wear the masks of a perfect prince and a brutal conqueror who’s willing to make sacrifices. Yet, when he comes to learn more about the darker side of his family, he, too, evolves from his strict mindset.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The main focus is found family. I want my characters to find their place in the world while discovering themselves, their limitations, and possibly even changing their goals along the way.
Can you tell us where the book goes and where we’ll see the characters in the next book?
After the slaughter of the Dante Royal Family, Emilia takes on the role of Queen with the support of the enemy nation’s prince. With aligned goals and a promise to help Thessian become Emperor, Emilia has her work cut out for her, especially since she is not the only one with royal blood in the kingdom. At the same time, she believes that joining Thessian’s side is the best course of action to save the fantasy novel in which she was reincarnated.
In Queen of Ashes (Book 2), she uncovers a sinister plot against her and a secret long hidden by the former king. So, Emilia does what she does best—she fights back with everything she’s got while trying to balance the royal lifestyle, politics, greedy nobles, and uncooperative subordinates.
I won’t go into any more detail as that may spoil the story for some.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Emilia died. She thought it was all over but then she opens her eyes and realizes she’s a child with all the memories of her past life and her eidetic memory intact.
Not just that. She’s now living in a medieval world that resembles her favourite fantasy novel—The Cruel Empire. Instead of being a main character, she’s reborn into the role of a princess fated to die before the age of eighteen.
As years go by, and she realises she’s not waking from a dream, she settles into her new life with only a goal in mind—survival.
Having years ahead of her before her new life is cut short, Emilia pulls the strings and builds a network of friends that will help her with her goal—stop Prince Thessian from killing her with the rest of her despicable family and make him her ally.
If she can do this, she can rule to improve her kingdom’s conditions and support Thessian’s goal to become emperor of the neighbouring empire.
But when a side character messes with the main plot, what will happen to Emilia’s future now that she has no idea of what other events she has set in motion?
Find out in Queen of Deception, a thrilling Fantasy Novel by May Freighter.
Queen of Deception (Empire of Shattered Crowns Book 1)
Prepare to embark on an enthralling journey through a realm where second chances aren’t what they seem in Queen of Deception by May Freighter. In this spellbinding tale, Emilia, upon her untimely demise, awakens as a child in a medieval world, her memories intact. Death, it turns out, is just the beginning of her extraordinary adventure. As Emilia adapts to her newfound existence, she discovers that this world mirrors the one she adored in her cherished novel, The Cruel Empire. The lines between reality and fiction blur, creating a captivating backdrop for her struggle to survive and rewrite her destiny, pitting herself against the menacing Prince Thessian.
May Freighter’s debut in the Empire of Shattered Crowns series is nothing short of a literary gem. Queen of Deception delves deep into themes of past and present lives, inviting readers to ponder the tantalizing possibility of reshaping fate. But what truly sets this novel apart is its exceptional world-building. Freighter’s vivid imagination transports us effortlessly to a bygone era, leaving us spellbound by her creative prowess. Just when you think you have the story figured out, unexpected twists and complications arise, courtesy of a side character’s actions. This unforeseen turn of events injects a delightful dose of complexity into the plot, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the ripple effects of Emilia’s choices. While some may yearn for more character development and depth, it’s essential to remember that Queen of Deception is just the series opener. This leaves us with an exciting promise of growth and evolution in the installments to come. A standout feature of this book is the clever use of alternating points of view, granting us insights into different characters’ perspectives as they navigate the same events. This multifaceted storytelling enriches the narrative and adds depth to the overall experience.
Queen of Deception immerses readers in a meticulously crafted medieval world brimming with dark fantasy allure. May Freighter’s masterful world-building and narrative finesse make this book a must-read for anyone craving a thrilling and thought-provoking adventure. Embrace the unknown and prepare to be captivated by the magic woven into every page of this remarkable tale.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0C7WJVRYK
LITERARY TITAN 