Blog Archives
Land of the Dragon
Land of the Dragon, by Steffanie Costigan, presents an intriguing blend of historical context and fantastical elements. The narrative centers around the Kuhn siblings, whose lives are upended by their father’s assassination due to his covert operations assisting Jews during Nazi Germany and their mother’s subsequent torture. This harrowing family history sets the stage for a dramatic shift when one of the siblings, Thomas, is conscripted, prompting their mother to have them smuggled to London.
Costigan’s story takes a sharp turn into the realm of science fiction and fantasy when the siblings’ ship is destroyed, leading them into an alternate universe filled with mythical creatures like dragons, elves, unicorns, and werewolves. This shift from a historical backdrop to a fantastical setting is one of the novel’s most striking features. At its core, Land of the Dragon explores themes of power, corruption, and the dangers of divisive leadership. Costigan draws parallels between the divisive tactics of historical figures like Hitler and the fictional character Tara, illustrating how leaders can manipulate societies into conflict. This comparison effectively highlights the perils of unchecked ambition and the ease with which populations can be swayed into violence against perceived enemies. The novel’s unpredictability is a key strength, captivating readers with its unexpected twists. The transition from a historically grounded narrative to a richly imagined fantastical universe showcases Costigan’s versatility in blending genres. While the initial setup suggests a focus on the siblings’ journey to London during World War II, the shift into fantasy opens up a realm of imaginative possibilities, inviting readers to experience an adventurous departure from traditional historical narratives.
Land of the Dragon is a compelling read that skillfully weaves together elements of history, science fiction, and fantasy. Costigan’s exploration of the corrupting influence of power and the impact of divisive leadership across different worlds offers a thought-provoking perspective, even as the narrative takes unexpected turns.
Pages: 510 | ASIN : B0CPCHWSGN
Down Comes the Dark: Elemental Book 2
Down Comes the Dark is the second installment in the Elemental Series authored by Liane Mahugh. This book delves into the journey of Raya, a young Elemental who has decided to remain on Earth while her boyfriend, Dev, returns to their home planet. On Earth, Raya embraces her life, enrolling at a local university to pursue her studies in Astronomy and forging new friendships.
Meanwhile, turmoil unfurls on Raya’s home planet, Solara Prime, as it grapples with catastrophic changes in its core, coupled with escalating protests led by terrorists against the planetary government. When the terrorists launch an attack on the city where Raya’s family resides, Dev takes it upon himself to track them down and seek vengeance, all while planning his return to Earth to reunite with Raya.
Dev’s actions, as well as the harrowing news of Solara Prime’s destruction, deeply affect Raya, prompting her to work tirelessly to establish contact with her people. Her Earth-based family endeavors to keep her safe during this tumultuous period. When a ship finally arrives to retrieve her, Raya is resolute in her determination to pursue the terrorists responsible for the assault on Solara Prime, aided by both old and new friends. Liane Mahugh expertly weaves together elements of space opera and unexpected plot twists, crafting a narrative that is both captivating and inspiring. Raya’s unwavering resilience and her alliances with friends, both old and new, enrich the narrative, resulting in a compelling story. While Down Comes the Dark can be enjoyed as a standalone work, reading the first book in the series, Elemental, dramatically enhances the overall literary experience. Mahugh’s storytelling prowess shines through in the prosperous development of characters and the unpredictable turns in the plot. Fans of I Am Number Four will undoubtedly find this a riveting contemporary classic featuring a resilient female protagonist.
The second installment in the series lives up to the high standard set by the first, with the added bonus of a humorous recap of the previous book’s events in the early chapters, ensuring that even readers who may have forgotten details from the first book can quickly catch up. Raya’s struggles with learning English and her grief over the news from her home planet are portrayed with finesse, and the sense of wonder shared by the characters and readers alike when encountering alien technology is palpable. The book culminates in an exhilarating climax filled with delightful twists, making it an engaging sci-fi adventure that is sure to satisfy. Down Comes the Dark is an absolute must-read.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0CG4X786L
Love, Power, War, and Corruption
The Wall follows a smuggler living in the middle of a civil war who has been separated from his fiancee and will do whatever it takes to be reunited with her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It seems every year, our country is becoming more and more divided. I wanted to use The Wall as an analogy for that, and what would happen if you were on one side and your soul-mate was on the other? It also explores love, power, war, and corruption between two completely different societies divided by The Wall.
What do you think were some of the defining moments in Asher’s development?
I think when Asher finally discovers the truth about his parents and that shakes him from Zion’s robust grip where he has been living in opulence. Also when he is finally able to forgive his Uncle as well as himself for the bombing that killed innocents.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore what would happen to humanity if man had the power only God was meant to wield and how absolute power corrupts. Also, what would be the downfalls of being able to live forever? What would be the cost? Just because we have a second chance does that merit wasting the first one? What does this say about human nature? Some other themes explored are: can love not only survive war but also societal differences that exist on the different sides of The Wall?
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, this is book 1 of a planned trilogy. Book 2 and 3 are being worked on now with the hopes of a release date sometime next year. Book 2 takes place ten years later from where book 1 left off. Sarai leads Zion West as Prime Servant. Asher commands its army against the growing threats of Zion East’s burgeoning military as Renatus’s power continues to grow. But when Renatus finds out Asher and Sarai’s son has the same disorder as his “wounded prince,” he kidnaps him for his LifeCell in an effort to resurrect his own son. As Sarai tries to hang on to power, Asher does everything in his power to save their son.
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It’s 2099, and the former United States of America is in the midst of another civil war. In the wake of a revolutionary technology that grants people a second chance at life, an impenetrable wall divides the prosperous nation of Zion from the slums of MiddleLand. Stuck inside the wall and desperate to reunite with his fiancée, contraband smuggler Asher is hell-bent on finding a way out.
When his uncle offers him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Asher is faced with an impossible task: impersonate a talented Zion soldier and risk his life in the Canonization, a brutal gladiator duel against a champion who never loses. But defeating an unbeatable opponent and reuniting with his one true love is only the beginning. Asher thought the second life policy was outlawed. But the truth is far more sinister, and he soon finds himself caught up in the middle of a terrifying rebellion that will decide the fate of both sides of the Wall.
As an explosive and futuristic sci-fi adventure that artfully weaves together high-octane action and heart-stopping romance, The Wall presents an unforgettable YA dystopia that’s perfect for fans of Divergent, The Hunger Games, and Dune.
The Wall
In The Wall, we delve into the intricate life of Asher, a smuggler trapped by an insurmountable barrier that starkly divides the affluent state of Zion from the impoverished MiddleLand. Driven by the haunting memory of his late fiancée, Sarai, and the mystery surrounding her untimely death—believed by some to be more than just an unfortunate accident—Asher’s journey is one of determination and heartbreak.
As the narrative unfolds, Asher is confronted with an ethically challenging proposition by his uncle: to impersonate a soldier of Zion and thereby ensure his liberation. Recognizing the monumental risks, Asher valiantly embarks on this daring endeavor. In doing so, he grapples with a seemingly invincible foe, pushing his limits in unprecedented ways. Amidst these trials, his unwavering resolve to reunite with his beloved Sarai remains steadfast.
The Wall proved to be a captivating young adult dystopian novel blended with Christian values. Its characters are richly developed, pulling readers into the labyrinth of their aspirations and fears. The meticulously woven plot keeps one riveted, eagerly anticipating each subsequent revelation. The romantic narrative that anchors the tale is moving, resonating deeply, and leaving an indelible mark.
Admittedly, the book’s momentum does wane slightly as the story unfolds. Nevertheless, this fleeting lapse in pace hardly diminishes the novel’s overarching allure. Asher’s tribulations strike a chord, endearing him to readers and invoking empathy.
For readers of dystopian and science fiction tales, this novel is a must-read. Penn’s adept storytelling, combined with the riveting character dynamics, make The Wall an absorbing read—one that challenges you to reflect upon the depths of love and the indomitable nature of the human spirit.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B0CJMT4NY6
Changing Tide
In Changing Tide, Robert Joncas masterfully entwines an evocative narrative of a young girl, Skye, wrestling with her personal turmoil while being swept into a journey far beyond her understanding. Haunted by cryptic dreams and grappling with the tragic loss of her father and her mother’s spiraling depression, Skye’s world is painted with a brush of melancholy. However, a glimmer of hope emerges as she rekindles a connection with Paul, an alluring figure from her past, previously known for his childhood mischief.
A sudden accident involving Paul propels Skye to listen to her intuition and the enigmatic visions that haunt her dreams. In her relentless pursuit to assist him, she unknowingly releases an extraterrestrial being intent on safeguarding Earth. This alien entity, originating from distant cosmos, reveals itself to be more fascinating and complex than Skye could ever anticipate, marking the onset of an extraordinary saga of friendship, love, and, importantly, trust.
Robert Joncas showcases an exceptional ability to portray raw emotions and delicate sentiments. His narrative is an intricate tapestry of romance, familial bonds, suspense, and an unmistakably human touch enveloped in a mantle of science fiction. The characters are vividly constructed, each contributing a unique hue to the narrative palette. Nana, Skye’s vivacious and fearless grandmother, was a particular standout, embodying a captivating blend of loyalty and audacious spirit.
The narrative is particularly successful in illustrating Skye’s internal struggle – her battle against emotional turmoil and her hesitant forays into new friendships. The character development of the alien entity is equally commendable, with its adaptation and backstory revealed in a layered, compelling manner.
While I enjoyed the novel, I think it could benefit from a richer depiction of its setting. Joncas provides glimpses of the environment through a scattering of sensory descriptions, but I think a more thorough exploration could lend an enhanced depth to the narrative, striking a more refined balance between the characters’ internal states and their external world. As events coalesce, the unfolding adventure achieves a natural, engrossing rhythm.
Changing Tide is a warmly recommended read, particularly for young adults who yearn for a slice of relatable, yet enchantingly fantastic, reality. This novel embodies the essence of heartfelt storytelling interlaced with an adventurous spirit, ensuring a riveting reading experience.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0C9VHRC25
H.A.L.F.
H.A.L.F by Natalie Wright tells the story of H.A.L.F 9, a Human-Alien Life Form that escapes from the military facility where he was created. During the course of his escape, H.A.L.F 9 meets teenagers, Erika, Jack and Ian, with whom he strikes up a friendship. Among other abilities, H.A.L.F 9 has extreme telekinetic and telepathic powers which make him a valuable asset to the government and one that they are not willing to lose. The government, claiming ownership of H.A.L.F 9’s life, sets out to retrieve him. Having no human technology that can match H.A.L.F 9’s power, they have to enlist a force stronger and more cunning than even H.A.L.F 9 is prepared to face.
Right from the start of the book the characters are likable and relatable. Even though the first couple of chapters were a bit confusing, each one was intriguing enough to make me want to keep reading. It isn’t immediately obvious how the characters in the first chapters are related to one another, but once you do discover the connection the direction of the story makes perfect sense. The writing is actually done very well for a Young Adult novel; which the book appears to be, as all the main characters are teenagers. I was very surprised at how each chapter really kept me on the edge of my seat; my interest in finishing the book never waned. Most books have at least a few chapters that are somewhat slow but I didn’t find this to be the case with H.A.L.F., it kept a great pace and remained interesting throughout. I think the struggle within H.A.L.F 9 between his alien and human personalities were done incredibly well. Having spent hardly any time at all actually interacting with humans on a personal level, he isn’t quite sure what to make of the new feelings that he experiences outside of the facility. For instance, there is a moment at which he finds himself wanting Jack to feel pain, even though he can acknowledge that Jack has never done anything to deserve his ill will. H.A.L.F 9 isn’t able to recognize that he feels this way toward Jack because of Jack’s romantic involvement with Erika, whom H.A.L.F 9 is also developing romantic feelings towards. I also appreciated how this aspect of the characters relationships is subtle and not the focus of any particular chapter in the story. Sometimes Young Adult fiction does not have a good balance of romance to substance but this book does not have that problem.
Natalie Wright does an excellent job with the element of surprise. I don’t want to give any spoilers so I will just say that in several places throughout the book the outcome that I was imagining is not at all what came to pass. I eagerly await the next installment of this series.
Pages: 293 | ASIN: B00R6U32CA
LITERARY TITAN 