Blog Archives
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
Doubloon Cove: The Secret of the Templars’ Satchel
The latest book in the Doubloon Cove series, The Secret of the Templars’ Satchel, takes readers on a whirlwind adventure set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1990s America. As we journey with Jeffery, Cindy, and Steven during a seemingly quiet weekend in Salem, Massachusetts, tranquility quickly gives way to suspense. An unexpected turn of events sees Stacey’s father, a member of the Freemasons, kidnapped. With a ransom demand hinging on a mysterious satchel, our young protagonists find themselves entangled in a quest that promises layers of truths, ancient secrets, and an urgent mission to save Stacey’s father.
A standout feature of Novak’s work is the seamless integration of themes, from the adrenaline-charged adventure to the deeper undertones of responsibility accompanying power and knowledge. The narrative cautions of the potential peril when knowledge lands in malicious hands, a lesson as timeless as it is pertinent. Complementing the storyline, the intricate puzzles and illustrations enhance immersion, pulling the reader into the heart of the mystery.
Equally commendable is Novak’s portrayal of a character of color, which is genuine and bereft of unnecessary emphasis. This character shines with depth, escaping the limiting confines of token representation. The authentic dynamics between the children, marked by their individuality and camaraderie, make it easy to champion their cause.
While The Secret of the Templars’ Satchel is a compelling read, I felt a slight unevenness in its pacing. After the initial major event, it seemed like the book was winding down, making the shift to the subsequent event a bit unexpected.
Kelly Novak delivers a captivating read with Doubloon Cove: The Secret of the Templars’ Satchel, which will particularly resonate with fans of classics like Indiana Jones and Nancy Drew. Brimming with mystery, action, and the magic of friendship, this book is bound to enthrall series enthusiasts and new readers alike.
Pages: 228 | ASIN : B0CDVDX6J6
The Dragon Garden
An eleven-year-old girl named Pingzi Po possesses a unique and rare ability – she is a demon queller, a role that has been unheard of in the Far East for centuries. However, when an Honorable Scholar named Gao Guang claims to be a demon queller from the Feng Shu Province, Pingzi’s world is turned upside down as she fears for her freedom and her place in a society that has long forgotten her kind.
The Dragon Garden, by Resa Nelson, is a young adult mystery novel that takes readers on an exhilarating journey into a medieval-inspired world filled with demons, intrigue, and unexpected heroism. Nelson’s worldbuilding in The Dragon Garden is nothing short of phenomenal, immersing readers in a richly detailed landscape inspired by medieval kingdoms of Eastern civilizations. The authenticity of the characters is striking, as they act and speak like individuals from a bygone era, especially when in the presence of royalty. Pingzi emerges as a remarkable protagonist, a quick-witted and gifted girl who shoulders responsibilities far beyond her tender age. Her relationship with the Northlander Benzel is both endearing and relatable, making it impossible for readers not to root for this dynamic duo. As they navigate the treacherous waters of deception and betrayal, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, resembling a classic sleuth mystery set in a medieval backdrop. Yet, it manages to deliver poignant moments that add depth to the narrative.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Dragon Garden is how it subtly addresses relevant social issues, such as gender, through the lens of Pingzi’s quest for truth and her place in a society that questions her abilities due to her gender and age. Resa Nelson handles these themes with finesse, making them accessible and thought-provoking for young adult readers. In hindsight, I never imagined that I would become so engrossed in the adventures of an 11-year-old Demon Queller and her guardian. However, The Dragon Garden charts Pingzi’s growth, not only as a Demon Queller but also in her loss of naivety, a journey that resonates with readers of all ages.
The Dragon Garden is an enjoyable and thought-provoking tale with exceptional world-building and compelling characters. The story is well worth exploring, especially for those interested in a historical setting that addresses societal norms. This novel is a testament to the power of young heroes and heroines who challenge the status quo and seek to make their mark in a world that underestimates their potential. Young adult readers, in particular, will find the novel to be a thrilling and inspiring read.
Pages: 216 | ASIN : B0C8ZZ2ZRZ
The Magic Claymore
Embark on a transcontinental and generational journey with The Magic Claymore, a riveting historical novel with enchanting threads of fantasy. Set against the rugged backdrop of 1746 Scotland in the unsettling aftermath of the Battle of Culloden Moor, we are introduced to Robert Cambelton, a loyal lowland Scot, whose discovery of his youthful cousin Bruce’s lifeless body sets the stage for a tale interwoven with mystery, familial bonds, and supernatural elements. With the cousin, Bruce, lies a parchment and a strip of family tartan cloth, intriguingly linked to a mystic claymore sword reputed to harbor magical properties.
Fast forward to a century later, in 1850, as we meet the Honourable Dougal Cambelton, a descendant of Robert, who, after a tenure in the Bandol War in Africa, finds himself thrust into a maelstrom of conflict and accusation in his home village. An old adversary, a tavern fight, and an ensuing allegation of attempted murder precipitate Dougal’s hurried escape back to the African continent. There, a serendipitous encounter brings him into possession of the selfsame Scottish claymore, revealing its astonishing and potent magical capabilities, propelling him into adventures that defy imagination.
The author intertwines past and present, compellingly connecting the Cambelton lineage and the enigmatic, power-laden claymore. Readers are submerged into vibrant depictions of 18th and 19th-century Scotland and Africa, enveloped by the atmospheric historical settings and entwining experiences of the characters.
The Magic Claymore is a rich tapestry of historical detail, from the poignant struggles of the Jacobite uprising to the shattering aftermath of the Battle of Culloden Moor, paired intricately with an inviting fantastical element. This novel explores themes of loyalty, heritage, and the indomitable spirit of the familial connection, resonating powerfully throughout the unfolding tale.
Delve into the deeply sculpted characters of Robert and Dougal Cambelton, relatable and vividly realized, guiding readers through their respective struggles, duties, and heartfelt desires. The narrative is heightened with unexpected twists and turns, anchoring the reader’s attention from the compelling start to the satisfying finale.
The Magic Claymore is a captivating, meticulously crafted novel that perfectly blends history and fantasy. It beckons to those who find delight in historical fiction, spiced with undertones of magical realism and adventure, promising a read that is as enchanting as it is intellectually stimulating.
Pages: 216 | ASIN : B0CG3GKZQD
Going Back to the Root of Monsters
Blood Tithe follows a 20-year-old young woman and historian who is ready to embark on a quest for unadulterated truth and cross into adulthood. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Our first novel within the Gothika world (Raise the Dead) had the readers thrown into the setting, so with Blood Tithe, we wanted to take a step back. By taking on the coming-of-age concept, it became a better way to explore and understand the world through Lyric’s eyes. We wanted to create and share that sense of wonder and exploration through someone who isn’t used to seeing this part of the world, as well as a sense of horror and dread about what lurks in the shadows. That was part of the inspiration, while the other part was actually Alfred Hitchcock in that his stories were about putting ordinary people in extraordinary situations. Lyric’s journey fell right into those stories that I like.
Lyric, Jalin, and Esperanza set out together to confront the danger that threatens their world. What was the inspiration for the relationship that developed between the characters?
So the first draft had the relationships drawn up very differently. In fact, Lyric was less of the main character and more of a supporting one on the first run with a hate/respect relationship between Jalin & Esperanza. The final product was more like an intense version of the X-Files’s Mulder & Scully – still with a hate/respect relationship but I had a need to create a very “driven” personality that would clash against a stoic and reserved personality. For Lyric, her personal relationships develop with each interaction with the outside world. Much like Rapunzel being exposed to the real world, is overwhelming but she believes in collaboration and so she is the bridge between the two J&E.
Monsters were not supposed to be real, yet, that is what Lyric discovers on her journey. The creatures in this book were very intriguing. How did you go about creating them for this book?
Firstly, we wanted our own take on vampires (or vampyres as we call them). Both CS and I are history buffs when it comes to legends and lore, so we talked extensively about what it means to be that creature. We wanted to go back to the roots of it being more monstrous and inhuman than what was portrayed in current media. As for the monsters that are touched on here (or will be coming in later books) – they are either amalgamations of creatures based on myths local to us, or local Mexican culture. Being Mexican, I wanted to give my culture’s creatures and monsters time in the spotlight. So yes, more creatures to come.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
The next story (which I’ve already started working on) is going to touch base with our first pair of characters (Emilio & Marisol). The first book had a semi-happy ending but with a few questions left unanswered. This next book will answer some questions, expand more of the world, and probably create more questions. We actually have a plan for 5 to 6 stories that will connect with each other as well as the overall plot we have mapped out. When CS and I map a story out… we really map things out big. In short – there will be more to come from Lyric, Jalin & Esperanza as well.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
For Lyric Wax, who dreams of a future as a Historian for the Grand Archives, this chilling truth becomes a haunting reality as she navigates her Verdad – a perilous path to adulthood – to find her place in the Imperium and prove herself. She sets out on a journey beyond the safety of familiar walls. Her destination: the mysteries that lie beyond the Great Gates of the Imperium of Kraphax.
What begins as a simple errand to a safe Shrine quickly transforms into a horrific ordeal. Lyric along with the irritable Inquisitor Jalin Cortez, and his partner Esperanza Boyorquez, must traverse treacherous realms of darkness and confront terrifying certainties hidden beneath the surface. Will she emerge triumphant, armed with the knowledge of the world’s buried secrets, or will she succumb to the ghastly fate that awaits those who delve too deep into the mysteries of the unknown?
The answers lie in the shadows she must bring to light.
…they weren’t supposed to be real.
Blood Tithe
Lyric Wax, a prodigious writer from the Imperium at age twenty, harbors a profound desire to undertake her Verdad ritual—a quest for unadulterated truth. Little does she anticipate that this fervent wish will launch her into a journey filled with unexpected perils. Along with the enigmatic Inquisitors Jalin Cortez and Esperanza Boyorquez, a seemingly straightforward supply run to a nearby shrine transforms into a harrowing encounter. The once-vibrant Paraiso Verde stands devastated, fallen to merciless ghouls, setting the ambiance for an unforgettable adventure.
Together with the wisdom of Judex Gale Stonebridge, Jalin’s esteemed mentor, this unique trio ventures into the sacred shrine, seeking understanding and solace. However, they soon confront an age-old evil lurking within, threatening to consume innumerable mining settlements.
Blood Tithe, written by the talented duo Tony Fuentes and C.S. Kading, is a mesmerizing narrative, intricately designed with elements of dark sorcery, formidable beasts, and action that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The authors’ unparalleled talent lies in their ability to vividly render their fantastical world, making it feel nearly as tangible as reality. Their extensive world-building is complemented by legends and histories that captivate the reader’s psyche. However, the characters stand as the crown jewels of this tale. Every character, brimming with emotions, motivations, and intricate details, is crafted with an authenticity that makes them compelling. The dynamic between Lyric, Jalin, and Esperanza provides a rich texture to the story, their diverse personalities harmonizing to lend depth to the overarching plot.
Blood Tithe beckons those who relish the allure of dark fantasy landscapes interwoven with the chilling excitement of mystery horror tales. The authors have masterfully constructed a story that lingers in one’s mind, even after turning the final page. This novel is not to be missed for those searching for a deeply engaging and memorable journey.
Pages: 269 | ASIN : B0CD8B8Q1F
Dane Thorburn and the Stanthorpe Rebellion
Dane Thornburn and the Stanthorpe Rebellion by Matt Galanos, is a riveting addition to a fantasy action series tailored to young readers. As the fourth installment in this captivating saga, it continues to explore the life of its main character, Dane Thornburn. Within its pages, readers will encounter a tale of personal tragedy, a kingdom in turmoil, and a shocking betrayal, setting the stage for a cascade of transformative events that reverberate across the land. In the company of familiar faces like Dane’s steadfast friend, Princess Vanessa, and his ever-present rival, Duke Kavendish, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of mysterious forces wreaking havoc throughout the kingdom. Accusations fly, fingers are pointed, and it falls upon Dane and Princess Vanessa to take the reins and become the saviors their people desperately need.
At its core, this narrative explores profound themes of friendship, resilience in the face of tragedy, and the process of coping with loss. The author adeptly portrays both male and female characters grappling with their emotions in the wake of adversity, depicting their growth and evolution as individuals. A notable strength of the book lies in its skillful handling of multiple character perspectives, including that of the chilling and enigmatic antagonist, in stark contrast to our poised and level-headed hero. The culmination of the story will undoubtedly satiate existing fans while leaving them eagerly anticipating what lies ahead in future installments. In the first half of the story, Dane consistently shines as a beacon of rationality amidst a tumultuous sea of characters navigating their emotions. This observation also applies to some of the women in positions of authority, who, despite encountering moments of emotional turmoil during crises, ultimately demonstrate impressive resilience in regaining their composure.
Dane Thornburn and the Stanthorpe Rebellion is a must-read for enthusiasts of the series and promises to keep them engaged and eager for what’s next. I recommend this book to young readers as it offers an enthralling escape into a world of adventure and discovery.
Pages: 290 | ISBN : 1922920584
Bondwitch
Bondwitch by Chelsey Ortega is an exhilarating journey into the paranormal, sure to enthrall enthusiasts of witches, vampires, and werewolves. With its captivating tale, this novel commences with the seemingly ordinary Annamaria, a young girl being cared for by her aunt. A terrifying experience at her prom night sets the stage for her dramatic entry into a world filled with supernatural mysteries.
Suddenly, Annamaria finds herself navigating a realm where she learns of her witch lineage and where vampires and werewolves are far from mere figments of imagination. In an effort to safeguard her from looming peril, she is relocated to her sister’s abode in a vampire coven. Compelled by a determination to defend herself, she delves into her newfound magical abilities. However, when circumstances spiral out of control, she faces choices fraught with consequences more dire than she could have ever foreseen.
The plot is artfully crafted, intertwining various threads into a cohesive and thrilling narrative. The characterization is strong and consistent, with each figure standing out, particularly the young protagonist, Annamaria. Unlike some youthful characters who may fall into imprudent decisions to instigate conflict, Annamaria’s choices reflect maturity and mindfulness.
Ortega adheres to traditional lore within the paranormal genre yet does so in a way that does not detract from the story’s originality or render it insipid. One of the novel’s strengths lies in how the imminent danger is meticulously and continually conveyed, heightening the stakes at each turn.
While I enjoyed the story, I felt that there are instances where the author tends to “tell” rather than “show,” recounting events in a straightforward manner without delving into specific details. This approach occasionally produces a somewhat monotonous texture, particularly during the action sequences. I think a more varied sentence structure could have made these parts more dynamic.
Bondwitch is a highly enjoyable read that will resonate with those drawn to paranormal stories, romance, vivid characters, and imaginative world-building. Ortega’s novel stands as a commendable addition to the genre.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0CF6H8NYC
LITERARY TITAN 