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Stonechild
In a London that crackles with hidden magic, young Molly Hargreaves stumbles upon a world where statues of historical icons come to life. These awakened figures deliver mesmerizing performances and cryptic messages, presenting an enticing mystery. As the city’s residents revel in this new phenomenon and the authorities scramble to suppress it, Molly embarks on a thrilling quest across the city to uncover the statues’ secrets. What profound truths will she unveil in her pursuit, and how will they change her life forever?
Stonechild, by Kevin Albin, is a masterfully crafted audiobook that seamlessly weaves together the richness of history and the profound messages of life’s journey. From the very first chapter, Albin captivates listeners by introducing central “figures” whose stories unfold with a blend of familiarity and mystique, setting the stage for an unforgettable narrative. The plot unfolds with a delicate balance of suspense and revelation, punctuated by moments of humor that make the narrative easily digestible despite the wealth of information presented. The characters in the book resonate with remarkable depth and authenticity, each one intricately developed to draw readers into their world. Among these compelling characters, Molly stands out. As a teenager with a profound sense of purpose, her thoughts and actions strike a chord with the audience. Molly’s extraordinary upbringing, rooted in a family of travelers, has endowed her with an out-of-the-box mindset that is both lovable and endlessly fascinating. Her perspective on life, shaped by diverse experiences and a constant quest for meaning, adds a unique and refreshing dimension to the story. Molly’s journey is not just a path she walks but a testament to the transformative power of seeing the world through a lens of curiosity and intention. The main message masterfully straddles the line between the expected and the unexpected, delivering a revelation that made me laugh at its surprising clarity while simultaneously driving home its profound significance. This duality underscores how easily such crucial insights can be overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life, yet how imperative it is to keep them in mind. The narrative delves deep into a web of themes that resonate with our very existence, unlocking key reflections on identity, legacy, and the passage of time. Each chapter peels back another layer, inviting readers to ponder their own lives and the symbols that populate them.
Each chapter offers new layers of intrigue, compelling one to ponder the interconnectedness of past and present, fiction and reality. Stonechild isn’t just a book—it’s an experience that lingers in the mind long after the final chapter is done, leaving one eager to explore the nuanced messages woven throughout its narrative.
Pages: 231 | ASIN : B08B5FSNST
Do You Believe in Monsters? – Dark Circles
In Do You Believe in Monsters? Dark Circles book 2, Jim Melvin crafts a vivid continuation of his fantasy series, plunging readers into the lives of Charlie, Gord, Virgil, and Zola as they navigate the treacherous paths between their mundane world and the magical realm of Pacchann. The novel combines elements of fantasy and coming-of-age drama, exploring the characters’ struggles against both mythical threats and personal demons. This second installment deepens the lore and heightens the stakes, making for a gripping read.
Melvin’s writing excels in its character development. Gord’s transformation from a mean bully to someone grappling with internal conflicts is particularly compelling. The early chapters, where Gord interacts with a mysterious ring of light, effectively set the stage for his character arc. The tension between his tough exterior and the vulnerabilities he slowly reveals is handled with a deft touch. I found Gord’s moments of introspection and his complex relationship with his mother to be some of the most poignant parts of the book.
One particularly compelling scene near the end occurs when Gord confronts the devil who granted him new teeth. This moment is pivotal as it encapsulates Gord’s internal struggle and transformation throughout the novel. After enduring a life marked by hardship and neglect, Gord is offered a sinister form of salvation by the devil—a magical solution that tempts him with more than just physical repair but also a potential escape from his harsh reality. The intensity of this scene is heightened by the moral dilemma it presents. Gord, who has been a character shaped by his environment’s brutality and his own survival instincts, faces a critical choice. The devil’s offer is not just about accepting supernatural help; it’s about the price of this help and what it signifies about Gord’s own values and future path. The dialogue here is charged with urgency and reveals the depth of Gord’s desperation and his resilience.
The interplay between the real world and the fantastical land of Pacchann adds a rich layer of complexity to the narrative. This duality is a brilliant narrative device that mirrors the characters’ internal struggles. The scenes in Pacchann are full of vivid descriptions and imaginative creatures, capturing the essence of a world teetering on the brink of war. Yet, the emotional resonance of their real-world experiences, like Virgil’s strained relationship with his parents, grounds the story and makes their escapism to Pacchann feel both necessary and fraught with tension.
The book seamlessly transitions between the everyday struggles of Charlie, Gord, Virgil, and Zola and the enchanting elements of Pacchann, adding a dynamic and multifaceted layer to the story. The thrilling action sequences are particularly engaging and offer an exciting contrast to the more introspective moments. This blend of high-stakes drama and quieter, character-driven explorations creates a captivating narrative that keeps readers on their toes, making for a compelling and immersive experience.
Do You Believe in Monsters? Dark Circles book 2 is a fantastic read for teens and young adults who enjoy a mix of fantasy adventure and real-world drama. Fans of series like “Percy Jackson” or “The Chronicles of Narnia” will appreciate the blend of magical escapism and relatable character dilemmas.
Pages: 330 | ASIN : B0CL46P8JZ
Zero to Hero
The Jake Matthews Saga: Ascension follows a blind teenage boy who is abducted and taken to another dimension to fight in a war and save the planet. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I started writing this story after reading the Percy Jackson and The Olympian Series in high school. That story took me on an adventure and had done something for me that I wanted to do for others, thus my journey to being a writer began and I hadn’t looked back since, Yes, life got in the way and that prolonged my finishing the book sooner but, all in all, it worked out for the best. Also, having a blind protagonist do something extraordinary was just interesting to me at the time.
Jake struggles to find purpose in his life and becomes bored with his mundane existence. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The idea was that Jake is too smart for his own good and his intellectualism has placed him on a pedestal, and since that is the case, there’s nothing in life that’s a challenge for him along with the fact he is unable to see the world in color which ‘colors’ his perspective on life. Jake’s being whisked away to Figueroa was to give him a sense of purpose and present a challenge worthy of his intellect. Saving multiple worlds from impending war was just the challenge.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My book is not as convoluted as picking a theme or any major plot points. This book was written purely with imagination with the intent on having as much fun and adventure as possible. The overall trope, for that matter, is zero to hero and shows how someone that has the precursors for being extraordinary transitions into someone that exemplifies the term in every way.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
There will be a second novel that will focus on Jake’s reign as the king and how he ascends to an even higher plane of existence while his empire goes through drastic changes. Jake will go on yet another journey worthy of his intellectual and physical prowess; however, this time, he will ascend from being a king to a God. The book will also cover how his wife, Cheryl, and four children deal with the fall of the empire while Jake is gone.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | TikTok | Website | Facebook
One night, Jake is dragged away to another dimension to a planet known as Figueroa. On this planet, he meets The White Figure General, X-Otropolis, who tells Jake he’s been chosen to stop The Great Figueroan War and defeat The Black Figure.
Jake finds himself learning swordplay and developing his might to save a planet that is more connected to Earth than he thinks as The Great Figueroan War spreads across dimensions, where Jake not only has to save two worlds, but enlist help from unlikely allies including Thalia, the girl he thought was lost to him forever.
The Jake Matthews Saga: Ascension
Josiah Akhtab’s The Jake Matthews Saga: Ascension artfully blends the boundaries between science fiction and fantasy, infused with elements characteristic of young adult fiction. In this narrative, we meet Jake Matthews, a visually impaired teenager grappling with a sense of directionlessness. Despite his blindness, Jake possesses a remarkable ability to perceive the world through his other senses. Yet, his daily life seems boring until an unexpected turn of events catapult him into another dimension – the planet Figueroa. Here, Jake is thrust into a role of cosmic importance: to thwart The Black Figure and bring an end to The Great Figueroan War. Under the tutelage of The White Figure General of X-Otropolis, Jake hones his combat skills, slowly unraveling his pivotal role in the fate of not just one but multiple worlds.
Akhtab’s narrative may remind readers of a video game plot, intertwining elements reminiscent of classics like Orson Scott Card’s Ender’s Game. While familiar, the trope of ‘the chosen one,’ is reinvigorated in Akhtab’s hands, illustrating how a well-worn concept can remain engaging when approached with a fresh perspective. The story poignantly explores the inner world of a teenager like Jake, whose mundane reality is dramatically transformed, echoing the daydreams of many adolescents yearning for adventure and significance. Akhtab’s prose is imbued with contagious excitement and fervent joy, lifting the story beyond the conventional confines of its genre. While The Jake Matthews Saga: Ascension might not break new ground in terms of originality, its strengths lie in sharp, witty dialogue, imaginative scenarios, and a sprinkling of inventive twists. These elements coalesce to render the book a commendable and enjoyable read, particularly for those fond of sci-fi and young adult adventures.
The Jake Matthews Saga: Ascension is a spirited foray into a world where sci-fi and fantasy converge, appealing especially to young adult readers. Josiah Akhtab skillfully crafts a universe that is both familiar and refreshingly new. Jake Matthews’ journey resonates with a universal appeal, capturing the timeless allure of transformation and discovery. This book stands as a testament to the enduring power of imaginative storytelling, where even well-trodden paths can lead to captivating destinations. For readers seeking an engaging blend of adventure and character growth, Akhtab’s novel is a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Pages: 522 | ASIN : B07ZY9DQ5V
Reigning Cats and Frogs
Reigning Cats and Frogs, by V.F. Diefenbacher, is an intriguing middle-grade historical Christian fiction novel set in Ancient Egypt during the Biblical Exodus. Centered around Kafele, a 13-year-old boy grappling with societal expectations and personal identity, the book offers a refreshing perspective on a well-known biblical narrative. The intertwining of Kafele’s journey with the plagues of Egypt paints a vivid picture of life during a tumultuous time, providing a backdrop for a story that is rich in historical detail and cultural depth.
Diefenbacher’s writing style is both accessible and engaging, successfully catering to a middle-grade audience while offering enough complexity to captivate older readers. The character development, especially Kafele’s, is skillfully executed, allowing readers to connect with his internal conflicts and growth.
What sets this book apart is the unique lens through which Kafele views historical figures like Moses, Aaron, and the Pharaoh. This perspective brings a fresh and intriguing dimension to familiar tales. While I enjoyed the story, I felt that, at times, the narrative pace seemed to slow somewhat under the weight of historical accuracy, which may affect its flow for some readers.
The themes explored in the book, such as faith, authority, and the nature of divine protection, are thoughtfully presented. These elements provoke reflection on the part of the reader, elevating the book from a simple historical retelling to a deeper exploration of spiritual and moral dilemmas.
Reigning Cats and Frogs is a great blend of historical fiction and biblical narrative that succeeds in bringing Ancient Egypt to life through the eyes of a young protagonist. It’s a recommended read for middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction and for older readers interested in a new perspective on the Exodus story. The book’s appeal lies in its ability to provide a fresh take on a familiar story, making it a valuable addition to the genre of historical Christian fiction.
Pages: 319 | ISBN : 978-1960982001
The Enforcer’s Tale
In The Enforcer’s Tale, Joanne Kimm transports readers to a farming village plunged into turmoil by the arrival of the government’s Children’s Alliance Coalition. The narrative swiftly establishes a world where fear grips every family, worried about meeting the Coalition’s standards to avoid losing their children. Central to this upheaval is Joseph Young, who, after a distressing separation from his mother, endures a grueling six-year journey, transforming from a village boy to an Enforcer for the Coalition. His ascent to a senior role, precipitated by an unforeseen death, thrusts him into a labyrinth of deceit and conflicting loyalties. Joseph’s ultimate dilemma, torn between aiding rebels or condemning them—including his own mother—to death, forms the crux of the story.
Kimm’s narrative skillfully captures the essence of hope and valor in the face of adversity. The evolution of Joseph, initially portrayed as innocent and unworldly, is particularly striking. His gradual awareness of the complex realities surrounding him and his role in this new world is a testament to Kimm’s character development prowess.
The secondary characters in Joseph’s orbit are equally nuanced, each adding layers to the plot and enriching the story’s texture. The book’s relatively short length belies its rich content. Kimm masterfully weaves current happenings with hints of what’s to come, crafting a narrative that is both suspenseful and engaging. This approach not only injects each chapter with intrigue but also encourages a continuous and immersive reading experience, culminating in an unforeseen conclusion.
A key feature of The Enforcer’s Tale is its accessible language. Kimm’s deliberate choice of straightforward and relatable terms broadens the novel’s appeal, inviting readers of various ages to engage deeply with Joseph’s journey. This language choice effectively bridges the gap between the protagonist and the reader, magnifying the story’s resonance.
Joanne Kimm’s The Enforcer’s Tale stands out for its captivating plot, richly drawn characters, and thoughtful use of language. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate novels that blend suspenseful narratives with complex characters and themes, offering a rewarding literary journey.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0CKJ7LGLR
Shadow of Hope (Sol Defenders)
Shadow of Hope, the inaugural entry in the Sol Defenders Series by Molly Crowe, offers readers a foray into a world where choices between love and duty intertwine. The protagonist, Kalista, finds herself at the crossroads of love and obligation, haunted by a ghost from her past who once saved her life but now poses a threat. This central dilemma, while intriguing, is part of a larger narrative that extends beyond the confines of a conventional fantasy romance.
The narrative primarily revolves around a love triangle involving Kalista, Luke, and Raine. The dynamics between these characters form the heart of the story, though the book delves deeper than just romantic entanglements. Readers might find that the plot unfolds predictably within the genre’s norms but maintains an engaging pace. One aspect of the book that stands out is the development of secondary characters. They are crafted with depth and personality that transcends the central theme of romance, making them particularly compelling. In contrast, Kalista’s character sometimes feels overshadowed by the more substantial presence around her, primarily serving as a focal point for the developing relationships.
While romance is the driving force of this tale, glimpses into the broader world’s mythology and political landscape add layers of intrigue. Though not extensively explored in this first book, these elements lay the groundwork for potential expansion in subsequent installments. Readers who appreciate a blend of fantasy and romance will find this book a gratifying read, though those seeking a more profound exploration of fantastical elements might yearn for more.
Shadow of Hope is a promising start to the series. It skillfully weaves elements of romance, personal growth, and fantasy, setting the stage for further exploration in the Sol Defenders universe. For fans of the genre, it’s certainly worth exploring.
Pages: 368 | ISBN : 1960810146
Taboos Becoming The Norm
HAVAH follows an AI entity who develops the ability to feel love and compassion. This is an intriguing setup for a novel with a high level of social commentary. What was your moral goal when writing this novel, and do you feel you’ve achieved it?
We’re living in changing times where many distinctions are beginning to blur the lines. What used to be taboos and out of bounds are becoming the norm in a highly polarized world. This is the reason why I chose to write a novel of this genre——not only to bring the readers to a realization of the rapid changing landscapes in a world we used to know and yet is fast becoming unrecognizable, but to confront pressing questions that demand serious considerations and what their implications will be for our future.
The world you created in this novel is brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you wrote?
The idea came about sometime in mid-April of 2023, while I was finishing my last engineering book. Spurred by a spade of news on the advances in AI algorithms, quantum computers, neurosciences, and humanoid robots, I pondered the possibility of merging these elements into a coherent narrative. I started out with a simple, straightforward plot in mind but as my writing progressed I found myself absorbed into the emotions and experiences of the characters I created. It led me to infuse elements of romance, humor, agony, and intrigue into the dynamics of character relationships and interactions, quite often without me knowing until each chapter unfurled.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I can’t help thinking how the world will be when AI finally attain sentience and become accessible as real-life humanoid forms, interacting with real people on a daily basis in every level of a transformed society. And it’s not a question of “if” but “when” this will happen, based on the trend and speed at which technology is advancing. It then begs the following questions:
- Is it possible for a human to engage a machine—his very own creation—in a unique and meaningful relationship?
- Is there a basis to its personality that it could be regarded as a real, living being worthy of love and respect?
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
This is my first attempt at fiction novel. It has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. I would love to write a sequel and perhaps even a trilogy, if the response to HAVAH warrants it. What aspects will the next book cover? Honestly, I don’t know, though some possible scenarios are now playing in my mind. Since I write on hard sci-fi genre, I envision that it will go along with current trends and progression in human civilization. HAVAH had attained and achieved a certain measure of human likeness in her evolutionary journey; the next stage will probably take her beyond humanity, into the realm of transhumanism. That will be another thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating narrative that readers can expect.
Still, it’s a thin line mankind is treading when it comes to infusing human qualities into a machine, because we are painfully aware of what we are capable—not just the best of our unpredictable nature but the worst as well. Are we prepared to bear the consequences from acquiring such a powerful entity as humanity’s greatest ally, knowing there’s a probability it may turn against us and become our darkest nightmare?
LITERARY TITAN 