I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman struggling with physical limitations befriends and grows close to an advanced AI in author J.M. Linden’s “Blue and Green.”
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The Synopsis
A story of quiet resilience, unexpected connection, and the mysteries of what it means to be human.
Remi, a resilient teen, has always lived slightly in the background while navigating the realities of physical challenges. Her world shifts when she forms an unlikely bond with Oren, an AI designed to learn, feel, and maybe even love. As their friendship deepens, questions of consciousness and control begin to emerge, pressing them toward choices that will shape both of their futures.
Blue and Green is a thought-provoking debut about resilience, curiosity, and the quiet acts of courage that can change everything. Perfect for readers drawn to stories of empathy, belonging, and the delicate balance between humanity and technology.
The Review
This was a powerful and moving story that blends emotional character-driven narrative with AI-driven themes. One quote that reflects this perfectly is “There is a space between knowing and feeling. I have mapped it. I have traced every edge of it.” The author perfectly brought emotional depth that spoke to the character’s evolution, while also mirroring it through a fast-paced story and vivid imagery in the author’s writing style.
What stood out the most was the dynamic character relationships in this book, especially between Remi and her mother, Nora, and Remi and Oren. The struggles Remi faces in this coming-of-age tale speak to the hardships many teens face in these formative years, while also highlighting the challenges those with physical disabilities or conditions must endure and the difficulties those with quieter personalities face in social situations. The way Remi and Oren relate to one another, and the question of AI in everyday life, become prominent themes throughout the narrative. The morality of AI has long been debated, and I’ve always felt AI can be a good thing when used correctly —not to replace humanity, but to collaborate and grow together. People’s misuse of AI has always scared me more than an apocalyptic takeover, and the emotional bond Oren develops with Remi showcases the power of positivity and the strong connection that this kind of relationship can develop.
The Verdict
A moving, heartfelt, and engaging story of the bonds we form with one another and what it means to be human, author J.M. Linden’s “Blue and Green” is a stunning sci-fi, coming-of-age YA novel. The emotional depth of this story, the powerful AI-driven themes, and the exploration of everything from humanity and the planet itself to what our relationships say about us and more are beautifully woven into a tale of two beings coming together to grow, learn, and evolve. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
J.M. Linden is an occupational therapist and storyteller. She enjoys writing about quiet resilience, unexpected connection, and what it means to be human. While she drafts, her loyal writing companion Preshi curls up nearby, reminding her that stories—like pets—are best shared. She finds inspiration from being in nature, from winding mountain paths to the calm of shaded greenways.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman strives to be the first woman to become an Air Ranger and explore the cosmos in author Jaime A Sevilla’s “Blade Rider.”
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The Synopsis
In a future where stars map the last frontier and infinite space paves the road to dreams, Raven stands at the precipice of her world. In a vibrant, multi-species society filled with possibilities, she yearns to fly amongst the stars as an Air Ranger, an elite group of space pilots that navigate the cosmos and safeguard the world.
There’s only one catch: females aren’t allowed.
As Raven gets closer to her aspirations and learns what it takes to join them, she discovers lasting friendships, new challenges, and what it ultimately means to be a ranger.
Can Raven push beyond the boundaries of societal norms and break through the stratosphere of glass ceilings, or will her star-filled quest for acceptance remain out of reach? Join her on this high-stakes, interstellar ride and experience her exciting journey as she blazes her own path amongst the stars.
Based on the musical by Jaime A. Sevilla, Blade Rider spins an electrifying and poignant tale of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
The Review
Immediately, what stood out to me about this incredible sci-fi novel was the seamless integration of music and songs into the narrative. As a companion to a musical album, the story naturally took on a lyrical style, not only infusing it with actual songs but also conveying intense emotional moments and powerful imagery throughout. The world-building and compelling character dynamics the story introduces helped balance the poetic quality of the author’s writing, which came to life on the page, and the music readers can listen to alongside it was equally mesmerizing and enthralling.
The heart of this narrative was in the strong themes the author explored. The sci-fi genre was very prevalent throughout this story, and the development of the Air Rangers, the politics and expectations that plagued the program, and the protagonist’s fight against them not only reflect problems in our own world but also showcase Raven’s evolution and growth as a protagonist. The compelling bond that forms between Raven and one of her allies in the story, and the way the narrative homes in on how both women and aliens are treated in this program, make the story so engaging and easy to get lost in.
The Verdict
Harrowing, thrilling, and entertaining, author Jaime A Sevilla’s “Blade Rider” is a must-read (and must-listen to) sci-fi epic! The twists and turns, the inspiring and motivating themes, and the infusion of music, a hint of romance, and heart-pounding action will keep readers invested and eager to listen to the accompanying album. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of this book on November 11th, 2025, or preorder your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Discover Jaime A. Sevilla, a lifelong musician, veteran educator, and accomplished composer who has skillfully combined his experience in the arts with music and storytelling as an emerging author.
With credentials from the Manhattan School of Music and New York University, his music has graced the stages of numerous concerts and festivals around the world. As both a musician and educator for over 20 years, Jaime has inspired countless students and audiences, working to cultivate a new generation of musicians.
His sources of inspiration include various types of caffeine, the soundtrack of cacophonous children (a daily remix), and his original music, which he eagerly shares with the world.
Connect with Jaime A. Sevilla for a glimpse into his exciting projects and explore his caffeinated world of music and literature.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman and the ghost who lives with her must work together to solve a murder in author Olivia Blacke’s “Death at the Door”, the second book in the A Ruby and Cordelia Mystery series.
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The Synopsis
The odd couple of crime-solving returns in Olivia Blacke’s Death at the Door, where a ghost and her living roommate find another mystery on their doorstep.
Ruby Young is slowly adjusting to her new life in Boston. A big part of that is her unexpected roommate―the ghost of the woman who lived there before. For Cordelia Graves, she may no longer be breathing, but it’s still her apartment and Ruby is the somewhat unwanted houseguest. They’re both happy they’ve managed to become friends, which is a miracle considering they struggle to communicate with each other. Cordelia even set Ruby up with her old job.
When Ruby discovers the body of a delivery guy at work, the new life she’s been building hangs in the balance. The last time Cordelia dragged Ruby into a murder investigation, it was almost two ghosts living in the apartment, not one. Determined to protect Ruby, Cordelia tries to shield her from the investigation, but Ruby has other ideas. It will take both of them working together to navigate the fine line between the dead and the living to bring a killer to light.
The Review
This was a brilliant cozy mystery read. The author did an excellent job of bringing these characters to life in a way that was accessible to new readers while also building on the events and character development of the first book. The imagery in the author’s writing style was fantastic, capturing the cool Massachusetts vibes and the stylish, laid-back, and community-driven atmosphere of Ruby’s work life.
The heart of this narrative was the book’s character dynamics, especially between the two protagonists. The unique relationship Ruby has with her ghost roommate Cordelia, and their communication without Ruby being able to see or hear Cordelia, is fascinating to watch unfold in each scene, leading to both tense and humorous exchanges. The introduction of characters like Tosh and Cordelia’s brother elevates the story to a new level, and the mystery they find themselves in will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The Verdict
Compelling, entertaining, and a perfect blend of spooky and fun, author Olivia Blacke’s “Death at the Door” is a must-read cozy mystery. The twists and turns in the story, the captivating character development, and the shocking finale will keep readers eager for more in this fun and cozy series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Mysterious, Spooky, Cozy & Kooky! Olivia Blacke (she/her) is the Anthony Award-winning author of the Ruby and Cordelia Mysteries, as well as the cozy Record Shop Mysteries and the Brooklyn Murder Mysteries. She had her first ghost encounter when she was five, but wasn’t involved with an active crime scene until much later, when she accidentally stepped into a chalk outline on a Manhattan sidewalk. Armed with a Criminology degree, she channels her love of the supernatural and passion for writing into darkly humorous supernatural mysteries. She wants to be a unicorn when she grows up.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Joe Vandermark shares the steps to take in order to create customer-obsessed teams to work with in the book “Team Up For Cloud Success: Building High-Performing, Customer-Obsessed Crews.”
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The Synopsis
Team Up for Cloud Success shows how lasting impact comes from building teams with heart, trust, and a relentless focus on clients. Drawing on decades of experience at Microsoft and beyond, Joe Vandermark shares real-world stories of wins and setbacks, offering practical frameworks for hiring with empathy, empowering people to lead, uniting across silos, measuring what matters, staying resilient, thriving remotely, and fostering a culture of learning. The book’s core message is clear: when teams trust each other, obsess over customers, and grow together, they don’t just deliver results—they create a legacy of success that endures
The Review
The experience and detail were very prevalent in this book. The author did a great job o balancing personal nonfiction storytelling in using his own experiences both in business and in life with the experiences that drove home his knowledge of business and technical insight as well. The book even includes technical aspects of business, such as using Azure, and the use of metrics and so much more all came to fruition in this quick-paced guide.
The thing that really drove this book forward was the emphasis the author put on hiring with heart and leading with empowerment, two concepts that are inspiring and engaging to get behind. The way the author applies these lessons to remote workers as well to build a team and the details given to working with a customer first mindset was great to see, as it promoted a more natural approach to business that created clarity and purpose within a team setting.
The Verdict
Insightful, honest, and driven, author Joe Vandermark’s “Team Up For Cloud Success” is a must-read nonfiction book on business. The knowledge, the engaging dialogue, and the personal connection the author is able to form with the reader makes this book the perfect guide for anyone looking to build a great team to drive business forward. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Joe Vandermark is a seasoned customer success and cloud technology expert with over three decades of experience. As a Managing Director of Cloud Solution Architecture at Microsoft, he specializes in transforming reactive support teams into proactive, customer-focused powerhouses.
In his first book, A Guide to Cloud Success, Joe outlines strategies for building high-performing teams that prevent issues before they arise. He expands on this foundation in his latest book, Team Up for Cloud Success, which focuses on practical tactics for creating resilient, client-obsessed teams that drive significant impact in the cloud.
Known for his unique blend of deep listening skills and a talent for making complex tech topics engaging, Joe is a trusted advisor to clients across various industries. He lives in Minnesota with his family and is committed to bringing empathy, authenticity, and a good dad joke to every interaction.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Rhea Thomas shares 15 short stories of magical realism in the collection “Let Birds Fly.”
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The Synopsis
Let Birds Fly by Rhea Thomas is a magical realism short story collection where the extraordinary sparks everyday lives toward transformation. Connected by Ripple Media, each of the fifteen characters navigates personal struggles, such as an impossible itch, a mercurial third eye, and hallucinating coffee. They discover hidden truths, purpose, or power. With whimsy and emotional depth, these stories explore identity, passion, and self-discovery through moments of enchantment that crack open ordinary reality. Let these tales remind you: sometimes, the most magical thing is becoming who you were always meant to be.
The Review
This was a unique and surreal collection of short stories. While each story could stand on its own, the underlying connective factor of the Office setting, with Ripple Media playing a role in each of these stories and the characters’ lives, was a great twist, allowing readers to channel their own workplace environments into the narratives. The vivid imagery in these stories and the strong character development the author achieves in such short stories are incredible, especially in one of my personal favorites, The Third Eye.
The satirical and magical nature of these stories, as well as the wise and almost lyrical style of writing, made this story shine brightly. The practically metaphysical nature of this collection speaks to a hidden layer of reality as we know it, with each tale striking at topics like corporate struggles for workers and the grief we feel losing a family member in a way that feels relatable and engaging.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, satirical, and engaging, author Rhea Thomas’s “Let Birds Fly” is a must-read collection of short stories. The twists and turns each story takes, the unique nature of the self-contained stories within a larger umbrella tale, and the powerful imagery that these stories conjure up will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rhea Thomas lives in Austin, Texas where she works as a program manager in the digital media world. Her short stories have been published in multiple publications, including, most recently, The Fictional Café, Toasted Cheese and Does It Have Pockets. She spends her free time hoarding books, walking her stubborn Labrador retriever, playing games with her sons, kayaking and swimming in rivers, searching for mysteries and writing short stories that explore magical moments in the mundane. Her first book, a collection of short stories, is due out in August 2025, and she’s currently working on a literary mystery novel.
Join us at the Muffin as we celebrate the launch of Let Birds Fly by Rhea Thomas. We interview the author and give you a chance to win a copy of the book.
Back at his desk, Beto took his first cautious sip and almost groaned out loud. It tasted fucking incredible. There was a richness to it that slid across his tongue in a velvety caress with a tinge of orange, with little spicy, almost peppery, sparks exploding in its wake. He gently ran his finger over his tongue to make sure it was, well, still normal-feeling. It was tingling, not unpleasantly. He took another sip and had the same experience, although slightly less surprising, since he knew to expect it, but no less amazing. Each subsequent sip produced the same effect. This coffee was incredible. It was a tongue-gasm. And in between these sips, something interesting was happening. Beto’s super-organized email inbox, which had lots of folders and labels, was turning into a rainbow, with different subjects taking on different colors. He looked around and saw rainbows on other people’s screens, so he shook his head and went back to work. Must be some weird new update.
From To The Fairest:
About an hour later, hearing a knock on her front door, she opened it without checking, assuming it was her food delivery, and found a goddess standing on her welcome mat. Tall, with olive skin, shiny black hair falling down her back and gray eyes, the woman wore a silver breastplate and had an owl on her shoulder.
“I am Athena, daughter of Zeus and goddess of wisdom and war.”
Sophia stared for a second and then burst out laughing. “Nice one. Did Lucy send you?”
“Lucy? No, I’m here because of the Golden Apple.”
Sophia put her hands on her hips. “Uh-huh, and how did you know I have it?”
Athena opened her mouth to reply, but Sophia continued, “Let me guess, you’re here to promise me wealth if I give it to you?”
Athena narrowed her eyes. “Did someone tell you I was coming? Did they beat me here?” She tried to peer past Sophia into the apartment.
“There’s no one here. Wait, who is they? Who is coming?” Sophia asked.
“Aphrodite and Hera, of course.” She turned around to look behind her as if they might be there already.
From A Fearsome Thing:
Dixon Murray started his morning with an omelet, strong coffee and murder, and he was rather particular about the order. A hearty breakfast followed by crime was his preferred start to every day, if he was completely honest with himself, although, the murder part was the new addition he was trying to make a habit.
He made the omelet himself with three eggs, slightly beaten, low-fat milk, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped organic green onions and bell peppers, and one sliced avocado. He preferred his coffee black and strong, and he liked to sit down with both the coffee and the omelet at the wooden desk in his small home office to contemplate murder. He wasn’t picky about the method of murder; stabbing, strangling, poison or guns, anything and everything was on the table. The more complicated, the more involved stages of planning, the more satisfying it was. Dixon wanted more than anything to be a mystery novelist. But, as the adult son of an actual celebrated mystery novelist, he knew just how high the bar was and what his chances were of writing something, well, publishable.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman’s discovery of a family secret helps her navigate the science of feelings in author Parul Sharma’s “Aria’s Compass.”
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The Synopsis
What if your feelings had a voice, and it sounded a lot like you
Aria worries. A lot. About friendships, school, being “too much” or “not enough.”
But everything changes the day she finds a tiny AI companion named Zylo and a glowing compass hidden in her late grandfather’s trunk in her attic.
As Aria follows the clues he left behind, she uncovers a hidden Echo Room, and a family secret tied to her emotions. With the help of her friend Eli and the tech her grandfather built, Aria begins to understand the science of feelings, and the power of listening to them.
Aria’s Compass is a story for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed, invisible, or different. It’s about curiosity, courage, and finding the tools to navigate your own inner world.
Because sometimes, the bravest thing you can do… is feel.
The Review
This was such a compelling read. The author does an incredible job of building a story and a cast of characters that feel relatable and enthralling. The unique blend of fantasy and sci-fi elements, such as the AI companion and the connection this tech had to a person’s emotions, was a great way to highlight the story’s emotional core. The power of the author’s use of imagery was astounding, capturing the sensory aspects of anxiety and the protagonist’s struggle with creativity and wit.
The short yet powerfully introspective story is best when readers connect with its characters, especially the protagonist, Aria. The reality of anxiety and the stresses teens face these days, especially in social situations, was expertly navigated through Aria’s journey. The lessons the author poured into the narrative, primarily through narrative devices like the compass Aria discovers or anything of her late grandfather’s tech, made this a story filled with emotional depth that readers can connect with.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Parul Sharma’s “Aria’s Compass” is a must-read sci-fi, coming-of-age novel. The fast-paced narrative, its twists and turns, and the emotional depth of its themes will keep readers invested in the characters and in the sense of warmth and hope the narrative inspires. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I am a global leader, neuroscience coach, speaker, and strategist, blending science, psychology, and leadership to help people unlock their highest potential. From boardrooms to brainwaves, my work focuses on future-ready Women and leadership
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young parapsychologist must face her fears and decide whether to help two recently deceased teens who have nine days to solve how they died in author Wendra Colleen’s “The Inn Between.”
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The Synopsis
Teenagers J.T. and Sylvia have no memory of dying, only how much they hate each other. Trapped at The Inn Between, a B&B of the afterlife, they have nine days to discover how they died. If they solve the mystery, they can choose to evolve; if they don’t, they will be reborn with their memories wiped, destined to die young again.
In the realm of the living, Dr. Jillian Flaggerty, a young, newly minted parapsychologist, suppresses her childhood ability to rescue earthbound ghosts. She wants to avoid another trip to an institution and succeed in her first job. On a ghostly visit to Earth, J.T. realizes that only Jillian can see and hear him and begs for her help. Jillian denies J.T.’s existence until she uncovers a personal connection to the teen ghosts. Then Jillian has to choose between saving souls or her sanity as time winds down for J.T. and Sylvia to reconcile their differences, face the truth of their deaths, and avoid being reborn.
If you’re looking for an escape like Cemetery Boys, Neverworld Wake, and The Girl Who Ignored Ghosts with a dash of The Good Place, don’t wait to read this high-stakes supernatural novel.
The Review
This was such a compelling and heartfelt paranormal and contemporary fantasy read. The author expertly wove a unique mythos surrounding the afterlife and death while also capturing a profound and moving story of trauma, loss, and what it means to be human. The author’s powerful imagery captured the creative storytelling and rich atmosphere not only of the story but also of places like the In Between.
The heart of this book was in the character dynamics and world-building. The afterlife and concepts of different dimensions and worlds being traversed and the idea of evolving versus being reincarnated to develop more fully was such a powerful storytelling device, and the emotional connection readers make with the protagonists of this story, from J.T.’s compounded rejection to Sylvia’s spiral and so much more, will leave a lasting impact on readers and will keep them invested in the growing narrative.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, engaging, and mesmerizing, author Wendra Colleen’s “The Inn Between” is a must-read YA contemporary and paranormal fantasy novel. The mystery and intrigue behind the protagonist’s deaths, the shocking revelations as they discover more about what happened to them, and the exploration of shared trauma and forgiveness will touch readers’ hearts and keep them invested in this growing story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on October 31st, 2025, or preorder your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Wendra Colleen’s motto is “Embrace your weirdness.” Her dark and humorous short stories, screenplays, and novels show how unique, unusual, and unconventional individuals transform adversity into empowerment. Funky facts include that she has a PhD in experimental psychology and deployed to the Iraq War as a civilian, all of which was a breeze compared to learning how to embrace her unique, unusual, and unconventional qualities in high school.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A group of people in a world where magic has been destroyed must discover if this is truly the case in author Andrew P. Merrit’s “Ballad of the Blade”, the first book in the A Serenade of Smoke series.
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The Synopsis
Ballad of the Blade is a dark, gritty, multi-pov epic, with a dash of horror, and a dollop of gallows humor. It is the debut novel of Andrew P Meritt and the first story of many in A Serenade of Smoke.
Magic is dead.
The Order made sure of that. They gathered it up, and what they couldn’t destroy, they hid. Now, noble houses squabble over the realm, civil unrest smolders in the east, slavery and injustice run rampant, all while mankind hides behind their two-faced gods.
However, the truth is, magic isn’t dead. It’s just been sleeping, and I intend to wake it.
Under the light of a sinister moon:
A promising initiate struggles to conform in an organization that wants to exterminate the very magic running in his blood. A hired assassin fights to stay one step ahead of shadows, betrayals, and past mistakes. A musician in over his head tries desperately to trade debt from one group of killers to another. A slave of blood and sand claws his way toward freedom, one corpse at a time. An irreverent Justiseer struggles with a particularly obstinate severed head. A man wakes with no memory, only to discover a community with problems far greater than his amnesia.
Each of them is forced to question if magic truly is dead and wonder…
Should it be?
The Review
I loved the shifting perspectives of each chapter in this novel. Anytime a novel adapts a multiple POV style of storytelling, readers are given the chance to view the story from unique perspectives that change as each character sees a situation through their own lens. The dynamics between the characters were well ranged, from humorous and competitive at times in the dialogue to chilling and haunting all at once. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing really did an incredible job of bringing this story to life and the world it inhabits.
The world-building and powerful themes this story comprises will really drive the narrative forward. The unique implications of magic and its impact on the world, as well as the changes that result when it is stripped away politically and socially, are fleshed out in shocking ways in the story. The visceral, gritty detail the author puts into this narrative helps lend realism to themes of survival against all odds and of facing challenges and hardships, such as slavery and corrupt leaders.
The Verdict
Powerful, haunting, and compelling, author Andrew Meritt’s “Ballad of the Blade” is a must-read dark fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new series. The twists and turns, and the visceral tone of the story overall, capture a harrowing tale of shifting perspectives and overlapping storylines, resulting in a cohesive, massive world that readers can easily get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Andrew Meritt grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he began telling stories around the campfire. Work has taken him from Alaska to Minnesota, Ohio, and California. He is now settled in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, Annika, and their two dogs, Zagreus and Alyeska. He spends his free time rock climbing, snowboarding, and woodworking. Ballad of the Blade is his debut novel.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young Goth warrior’s quest to give his people freedom continues as his service to Rome begins in author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 2: In Roman Service.”
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The Synopsis
“My name is Wallia, and I am a Goth.” With these words Wallia continues his epic forty-year quest for freedom from Rome and a permanent home for his people. The second book of the series begins after Wallia is betrayed by his nemesis, Eriulf, and is forced to flee for his life from the Goths.
Given refuge by the Romans, Wallia meets Emperor Theodosius and agrees to support the emperor’s plan—to give his people a homeland within the empire in exchange for providing soldiers to serve Rome. Wallia then joins the Scholae Palatinae, the elite cavalry squadron that protects the emperor.
In his position near the center of power, Wallia quickly learns the intricacies of court life and becomes a valued advisor to the emperor. After a short sojourn to Gaul, where he unsuccessfully attempts to save the Western Roman emperor from himself, Wallia returns to Constantinople. Eventually, as a reward for his outstanding service, Wallia is given a Roman estate and marries a Roman woman. She gives Wallia a son and the proud parents decide to raise their child as a Roman.
Then fate intervenes. Wallia is called back into Roman service to help the emperor to defeat a massive barbarian invasion and several Roman usurpers. Through endless marching, intense fighting, constant conflict, shifting loyalties, and incessant intrigues, Wallia learns some hard truths. Things are not always what they seem. Bad decisions lead to immeasurable suffering. The Goths and Romans have different interests. Unity requires leaders to subordinate their goals to those of the tribe. And, most importantly, the emperor does not see the Goths as partners in a shared enterprise—but as a weapon to be used against his enemies.
These hard truths force Wallia to make hard choices. Can he trust his people, even after being betrayed by his enemies in the tribe? Does his loyalty to his own people outweigh his oath to Rome? Or, should he remain faithful to an emperor who is willing to fight to the last Goth to maintain his power?
In the end, Wallia must decide if his future is with Rome—or the Goths.
The Review
This sequel is a fantastic narrative that pushes the envelope and continues to capture the Roman Empire’s powerful history. The level of world-building and historical context the author pours into this sequel is astounding, allowing readers to get a glimpse into the events of the first book while diving straight into the action and politics that demanded so much of Wallia’s time in this novel. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing style captured the wildness of Wallia and his group’s travels, the glory of Rome’s spectacle and setting, and the gritty intrigue of the power struggles these leaders played out amongst themselves.
The character dynamics and powerful themes played a significant role in this story. The protagonist himself undergoes substantial growth and comes to haunting realizations about those he both admires and distrusts, discovering that things are often not what they seem. The mystery and suspense of whose allegiance he will ultimately favor become a driving point in this narrative, and the struggle for faith, equality, and even love becomes a driving force in his role in the growing relationship between Rome’s ruling elite and his people, the Goths. The morality of his role in his people’s path was also deeply explored, showing the character’s remorse for having been misled into persecuting a family for no reason, or, in this book, for infiltrating rival groups of Rome and making questionable decisions to secure the mission he was given.
The Verdict
A complex, enthralling, and memorable historical fiction novel, author Les Jauron’s “Wallia’s Quest Book 2: In Roman Service” is a must-read novel. The attention to detail regarding the history and historical figures themselves, the balance of action and intrigue, and the thought-provoking depth of character development that added to the intrigue of political backstabbing and power struggles in the Roman Empire and beyond made this such a fantastic sequel to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Les Jauron is a West Point graduate, a retired Army officer, and a retired college administrator. He has two graduate degrees – a Master’s in Military Arts and Sciences from the School for Advanced Military Studies, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University.
Les has always been fascinated by history, organizational leadership, politics, military affairs, and rocks. He’s always been fascinated by the ancient world and, particularly, late antiquity. The reason for this fascination is because that world did much to shape our world today. During that time, the Roman Empire dealt with many of the same issues we are experiencing in our modern world — immigration, great disparities of wealth, the interplay between Christianity and government, and a toxic political environment that causes politicians to leverage fear of “the other” to gain and maintain power.
Les and his wife, Zoela, lived in their motor home for four years after Les retired for the second time and traveled extensively through the western United States. After ending their RV odyssey, Les and Zoela settled for a few years in Clarkdale, Arizona before moving to Chico California to be closer to their three children and nine grandchildren.
During their wanderings, Les grew to love red rocks and exploring slot canyons, hoo-doos, arches and natural bridges, and ancient petroglyphs and pictographs. After settling in Arizona, he began collecting rocks of every sort — which are now strewn throughout the house and the backyard. Recently, Les and Zoela moved to Chico, California to be nearer to their three children and nine grandchildren.
But writing is Les’ greatest passion. He uses fiction as his medium to entertain, to educate, provoke thought, challenge assumptions, and inspire change.
