I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
When the new home Elior and his allies find themselves in is under threat, they must determine who is a friend and who is their enemy in author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s Refuge”, the third book in the Eternal Chronicles series.
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The Synopsis
Blindness isn’t the only thing that keeps you from seeing.
Elior and his friends have been through a lot together. They journeyed through trials with Michael to reach the Well of Eternity and drink from it. They gained new powers and went through the Mirror of Eternity to the other side of the world to rescue Elior’s brother from a dragon and restored light to Nox Terra in the process. Now they’ve returned to Lux Terra, but the adventure is far from over.
When an ominous warning finds them in Gabrielle’s beach house, they have no choice but to join Michael’s followers in the underground, Eternity’s Refuge. They are welcomed with open arms and the promise of a place to belong away from a world gone mad. But when they find out that Taariq’s right hand man, Iblis, has infiltrated Eternity’s Refuge in every major city, they have to find a way to protect their new friends and their new home from the inside.
Now they must determine who their friends are and who their enemies are, and almost nothing is as it seems. Will Taariq and his minions be successful in bringing Eternity’s Refuge down from the inside? Or will Elior, Opal, Nyx, and Nereza be able to stop him and bring even more people to the cause?
Eternity’s Refuge is the thrilling continuation of the Eternal Chronicles series following Eternity’s Mirror. The magic leaping off the page and deepening the mystery will hook you from cover to cover and leave you breathless.
The Review
The world-building continues to amaze in this third entry in the Eternal Chronicles. The author infuses a great deal of intrigue and mystery into the story, as the question of loyalties and who the protagonists can trust is tested. The imagery and use of magical and mythical world-building allow the reader to feel transported into the story.
What made this story shine was the robust character development in this story. The protagonist, Elior, is tested in this book, exploring his call to lead their people and how to rise above the hardships and struggles their journey has thrown in their path. The story of redemption some characters take, especially one who has been on the wrong side of the battle thus far, draws the reader into the story and keeps them emotionally invested as the losses pile on in this story.
The Verdict
Adventurous, thrilling, and entertaining author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s Refuge” is a must-read fantasy-driven narrative. The shocking twists in this story and the emotional ending will keep readers on the edge of their seats and eager to get the next book in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Zachary Hagen is a fantasy author and editor. He lives his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn’t busy writing his next book or teaching, you can often find him walking around his neighbor hood or up hiking in Hanging Rock Park with his wife and their friends.
From a young age he was enthralled with the world of story. From the stories his parents read to him from his blue bedtime story books (if you know, you know) to the first two series that he read, The Chronicles of Narnia and A Series of Unfortunate Events, Zachary’s tastes continued to develop throughout his years of reading.
The influences for his first series, The Eternal Chronicles, include Christopher Paolini, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A day of adventure with Sasquatch helps teach readers the beauty and importance of conservation in author Molly Leach’s “Following Sasquatch”.
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The Synopsis
Following Sasquatch takes readers on an enchanting exploration with an elusive gentle giant. Crafted by Molly Leach, this story delves into a day of discovery in the wilderness, highlighting Sasquatch’s commitment to leaving no trace behind.
With adventures from climbing trees to encountering diverse wildlife, Sasquatch’s journey is one of mindfulness and respect for nature. Emphasizing conservation, kindness, and the beauty of the natural world, the book educates and entertains, fostering a deep appreciation for the outdoors. It encourages readers to explore with care, love the earth, and cherish its wonders.
This book invites readers to a journey of discovery, stewardship, and wonder, proving that sometimes, the simplest of adventures can preserve our planet’s stories for generations to come.
The Review
What a heartwarming and memorable book. The author did a remarkable job of capturing the whimsy and wonder of Sasquatch in our culture while also delivering an educated and experienced book for young readers everywhere. The warmth and natural wonder of the illustrations allowed the spark of nature to take hold of the reader’s mind, keeping readers invested in the overall story being told.
The heart of this story rested in the significant theme of conservatorship that permeated the narrative. The simple story of a Sasquatch and its relationship to nature may be straightforward. Yet, this book provides a depth of attention to detail on the impact we as a civilization make on the environment and natural surroundings.
The Verdict
Memorable, thoughtful, and entertaining author Moly Leach’s “Following Sasquatch” is a must-read children’s book. The almost minimalist approach to the illustrations perfectly blends the themes of nature, environmentalism, and mankind’s relationship to the environment. The whimsy and wonder of Sasquatch as a main character keep the reader invested in the overall narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
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Molly is an artist from somewhere along the road. Whether doing trail work far in the forest or writing songs up in a tree , hopping the train to see an old friend or playing music at a bar in the city, adventure is never far away. Hands rarely clean of dirt, usually barefoot, and often dancing, you will find Molly singing in the wild.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman pursuing her dreams and a young man hiding from his family obligations find themselves forced to live together, and soon a prank war may ignite a passion within them both neither saw coming in author Rachel Holm’s “Capitally Matched”, the first book in the Brandt Brothers Contemporary Romance series.
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The Synopsis
This condo may not be big enough for the both of them…
Charlotte Reid has always put her family first. Their bookstore was her whole life, but it’s never really felt like hers. Now, Charlotte’s left her small town behind for the chance to do something on her own terms. She needs to stay focused and make the best impression she can; this might be her one shot to change her life. That is, until the borrowed Washington D.C. condo she’s living in just added a distracting new amenity that wasn’t on the list: Hayden Brandt.
It’s always been the plan that Hayden would take the CIO job at his brother’s company when offered it. Unfortunately, Hayden feels stifled by the sense of obligation and worse, now needs to rely on him for a place to live, too. Looking forward to some space of his own, Hayden’s surprised to find Charlotte already settled into the guest room of his brother’s condo. He figures his unexpected roommate will be easy to ignore, no matter how much her hair shines and her eyes shimmer. But then, the pranks start.
Hayden’s stuck in the past while Charlotte’s looking towards the future. Are these roommates all wrong for each other or might they be capitally matched?
Capitally Matched is the first book in the Brandt Brothers novels, a series of interconnected standalones about five brothers.
In these pages you’ll find forced proximity, a prank war, DC references, gossipy brothers, fabulous friends, a few open-door steamy scenes, lots of laughs, and even more heart. Happily ever after guaranteed!
The Review
What a compelling and heated romance! The antagonistic start to the main characters and their relationship was the perfect way to highlight their heat. The author put a remarkable amount of detail and heart into each main character and their background, allowing the reader to connect with each of them instantly. The imagery in the author’s writing brought the city to life and elevated the passion of the romance between them both.
The central theme connecting Charlotte and Hayden was family obligations. While both come from very different backgrounds, they feel obligated to their families. Hayden feels less than enthused at his job working for his brother, and Charlotte feels pressure to leave behind her dreams to help run her parents’ bookstore. This allowed the bond that formed between both main characters to feel more alive and engaging on the page.
The Verdict
Steamy, heartfelt, and entertaining author Rachel Holm’s “Capitally Matched” is a must-read contemporary romance and the perfect first entry in the Brandt Brothers series. The book earns its “swoon-worthy” reputation, highlighting the relatable family drama and relationships they have with one another and the passion between the two main characters that will keep readers eager for more from this fantastic author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rachel grew up in Western PA and found her love of reading early in life, supported by her parents with frequent trips to the library and local bookstores. She stumbled into the bookish world in late 2020 and has embraced the bookish lifestyle whole-heartedly, diving headfirst into the Romance genre, becoming a book reviewer and Bookstagrammer. In 2021, she changed careers, taking a job at an indie bookstore and starting her first official novel-length writing project.
Now Rachel is getting an MFA in Popular Fiction at Seton Hill University and juggling too many story ideas for one brain to handle. She’s excited to continue to share Happily Ever Afters with you that bring the swoons, the spice, and the humor.
When not immersed in her bookish world, you can find Rachel hanging out with her husband and two cats, spending time with friends in the Washington DC area, and rooting for Pittsburgh sports teams.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Angela Yarber seeks to redefine what the American Dream means to marginalized people and the LGBTQ+ community as a whole in the book “Queering the American Dream”.
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The Synopsis
Beginning the day the Supreme Court ruled her marriage legal, Angela Yarber’s queer little family traversed the American landscape for two years in a camper named Freya, following in the footsteps of revolutionary women from history and myth. Amid her wanderings, this queer clergywoman grapples with the loss of faith, addiction, death, parenting, and what it means to reimagine the so-called dream promised to so many. With unapologetic grief, humor, and radical imagination, she creates a new dream, not just for herself, but for all marginalized people living in America.
The Review
What a compelling and thoughtful read. The author did a fantastic job of highlighting the personal struggles and obstacles she faced in going on this personal journey to find herself and her family in the process while also acknowledging the privilege she was born into, helping to shine a light on other marginalized groups aside from her own, from people of color to people who identify as different genders and so much more. The author’s balance of personal and professional writing in this book allowed the reader to connect with her experiences much deeper.
The heart of this narrative rested in the author’s path that she found herself on. In our current landscape, the need to “define” things like family, love, and society has become a centralized debate worldwide. The reader can see no clear-cut definition of family through the author’s story. Instead, family and love can look like anyone and anything, with white picket fences being equal to living on the road in an RV or having an apartment overlooking a major metropolitan city, as well as a mother and father being equal to two mothers or two fathers. The personal nature of the author’s other struggles, from loved ones struggling with addiction to feelings of self-doubt and more, really kept the reader engaged.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and thoughtful in its delivery, author Angela Yarber’s “Queering the American Dream” is a must-read LGBTQ-driven nonfiction book that readers won’t be able to put down. The book’s relatability for so many LGBTQ readers looking to find their family in this world and the dedication to representing and giving voice to many different cultures and viewpoints allowed for a well-rounded discussion and heartfelt dive into what family truly means. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Rev. Dr. Angela Yarber is an award-winning author of eight books and a highly sought public speaker. She is the Founder of Tehom Center Publishing, an imprint publishing feminist and queer authors, with a commitment to elevate BIPOC writers. With a Ph.D. in Art and Religion and over a decade serving as a Professor of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, five of her books were listed in QSpirit’s Top LGBTQ Religion Books. Her work has been featured in Forbes, HuffPo, Ms. Magazine, Tiny House Nation, and more at https://angelayarber.org
Join us at WOW’s blog The Muffin as we celebrate the launch of Dr. Angela Yarber’s memoir Queering the American Dream. You can read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of the book.
You can visit Jan’s blog for her review of Queering the American Dream. Plus read a guest post by Dr. Angela Yarber about disenfranchised grief, particularly as it pertains to losing someone to addiction.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A couple happy and in love find their world torn apart as tense political divides amongst the nation brings out a second side to one of them, spiraling out of control in a tense psychological thriller in author Jackson Liva’s “Rising Up”.
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The Synopsis
Can a toxic relationship change your life for the better?
Serena and Greg are the perfect match: she’s a sexy, fun, charismatic yoga instructor, and he’s a laid-back regular joe with a heart of gold. And their whirlwind romance lifts them to dizzying new heights. But when the presidential election throws the country into a deep political and cultural maelstrom, one of the couple’s personalities suddenly splits in two.
Stuck in the midst of escalating psychological attacks, a steady stream of gaslighting and lies, as well as a mysterious disappearance on a tropical vacation, their tumultuous relationship slowly begins to reveal sinister secrets that bind the two together – secrets that expose lifelong wounds, as well as eerie parallels to America’s relationship with its president.
Only by rising up to their inner demons and following the guidance of their Higher Selves will both they – and their country – stand a chance of finding true peace and happiness.
Step into a deeply authentic and emotional novel that artfully weaves together astute political commentary, insightful reflections on psychological abuse, and a striking yet sympathetic picture of toxic codependent relationships.
The Review
This was a compelling and gripping read. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the thoughts, emotions, and heat of both the romance beforehand and the tension after the political strife enters the lives of these characters. The world-building was really top-notch in this book, as the author brought to life the real-world struggles of the political divide that still holds strong in many parts of the world, most strongly felt in the United States, of course.
The character development and the powerful themes of politics, relationships, and mental health were beautifully brought out throughout this narrative. The buildup of tension and toxicity throughout the main character’s evolution as individuals and as a couple drew the reader in carefully, like a bad car accident one can’t look away from. The venomous nature of politics in this day and age and how it impacts our relationships in families, friendships, and romantic entanglements has never been more pronounced than it is now, and the author weaves through these conflicts with honesty and a profound sense of reflection.
The Verdict
Memorable, honest, and engaging author Jackson Liva’s “Rising Up” is a must-read psychological literary fiction drama that readers won’t want to put down. The twists and turns in the story, as well as the shocking buildup of tension that highlights politics and mental health awareness, all into one package, made this book one people will turn to time and time again in this day and age. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy or pick it up on July 4th, 2024!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
I’m an established novelist, and Jackson Liva is the pen name I created to protect the privacy of me and my family. If Rising Up helps others heal from a toxic relationship, or navigate through a current situation, I want to make sure it’s out there.
“You own everything that happened to you. Tell your stories. If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better.”
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Nick Mirisola shares his journey to Eastern Philosophy, Metaphysical religions, and science as he seeks to bridge the gap between the two schools of thought in the book “Metaphysical Sherpa: Misunderstood Mystic”.
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The Synopsis
Dive into the extraordinary life of Nicholas David Mirisola in Metaphysical Sherpa: Misunderstood Mystic. This anthology unveils Mirisola’s captivating journey through an unpublished condensed autobiography complemented by biographical entries from friends, family, and professionals. Explore his diverse talents through a collection of thought-provoking lyrics, captivating artwork, and forty pages of insightful and humorous memes. This book received four 5 Star editorial reviews from Readers’ Favorite, and was ranked #1 in Zen Buddhism, #1 in Shamanism, #2 in Mysticism, #3 in Unitarian Universalism, #3 in New Age Mysticism, #4 in Earth Based Religions, and #5 in Buddhism on Kindle’s “Hot New Releases” lists at one point.
Mirisola, a modern renaissance man, challenges Western pop psychiatry’s understanding of him, offering a unique perspective on religion and science. In this anthology, he shares a philosophy of science paper first published in a peer reviewed journal, showcasing his profound insights. As a uniting voice for religion and science, Mirisola celebrates diversity, pluralism, and individuality, weaving a narrative that resonates with seekers of wisdom and understanding. Join this misunderstood mystic on a journey that transcends boundaries and bridges the gap between the spiritual and the scientific.
Nick is a lay Zen monk, DIY shaman, ordained Dudeist priest, and professional musician, visual artist, and philosopher. His story describes a spiritual awakening and the journey of his soul over the course of his life that is inspirational and profound. His storytelling is also educational, with science backing a diverse tapestry of paranormal phenomena. He speaks of mental health struggles which many people can relate to and identify with, and his methods of dealing with struggles are informative and luminary. He is a visionary with strong ideals, and a down to Earth philosophical perspective that enables him to put his ideals into practical applications. He is also backed up by a veteran friend’s intimate knowledge of declassified military and government secrets, as well as a neighbor’s eyewitness account of a seemingly miraculous event, and a nursing practitioner’s story of a “medical miracle.”
The companion Meditative Animal music album is titled Metaphysical Sherpa: Dirty Fractal Sacrament, and is a 16 song Avant-Garde album with a complementary narrative, and Mirisola’s poetic lyrics, alongside the presence of other talented musicians, not limited to features by Grammy Award nominee G. Love and Killah Priest from the living legends The Wu-Tang Clan. Meditative Animal has a timeless original sound, and a unique indie alternative folk rock style with influences from jazz, blues, funk, soul, reggae, hip hop, world music, and sound healing therapies. The critically acclaimed music has ranked high on multiple international indie music charts, and is produced and published by Nick’s indie record label under Moonlit Creative Works.
The Review
This was such a thought-provoking and engaging read. The profound insight and clarity with which the author speaks keep the reader invested in the overall journey, exploring the path that brings both science and faith into a connective road we can all travel. The exploration of allowing each and every person to live their life the way they want, respecting one another’s beliefs, and seeing the world from their perspective made this book so engaging.
The book also highlights the struggle to follow one’s path, with so many trying to instill their beliefs or scientific path and mindset onto others. The need to question things and explore the universe on one’s terms was brought to life, and how government officials, major corporations, and the evolving mental health system all try to control and change people’s perspectives on spirituality as a whole kept the intrigue and insight alive on the page.
The Verdict
The compelling writing style, mixture of autobiography and biographical writings, and philosophical debates this book creates make it a must-read nonfiction book. The engaging way the author presents his journey to the reader and the mind-blowing experiences that he has had make this a compelling book 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
Nicholas David Mirisola, known as Nick Mirisola, is a lay Zen monk, ordained Dudeist priest, and a multi-talented artist. He refers to himself as “Duddha.” As a singer-songwriter, he performs under the name Meditative Animal, and his music is an eclectic blend of indie alternative folk rock with hints of jazz, blues, funk, soul, hip hop, reggae, and world music.
Mirisola is a versatile musician, playing guitar, hand percussion, harmonica, guitarlele, melodica, singing bowls, bass, keyboards, and Native American flute. His songs are noted for their poetic and thought-provoking lyrics, showcasing his unique musical style.
A professional music producer, visual artist, and published philosopher, Mirisola has earned recognition for his intelligence, with a tested IQ at genius level. His philosophy of science paper, “Points About Points with a Point: Nature of Smallest Scale Universals,” offers groundbreaking insights into some of nature’s deepest mysteries.
Beyond his artistic and philosophical pursuits, Mirisola has a playful side, writing humorous and insightful memes, often quoting himself as “Duddha.” His ability to combine intellectual depth with lightheartedness adds a unique charm to his diverse body of work.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
One parent shares the experiences and tricks they learned to help end difficult situations with their child without “fixing” a child’s behavior in the book “Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck” by Sue Donnellan.
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The Synopsis
Are you tired of yelling, punishing, and reminding, yet experiencing no change in your child’s behavior?
What if you could learn the transformative mindset that allows parents to get results without “fixing” their child’s bad behavior?
In Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck, Sue Donnellan, parent mentor, author, mom of four (including triplets), and entrepreneur shares 20+ years of experience cultivating the effective thought process for successful parenting. She delivers a proven playbook for turning misbehaving kids into happy, respectful, well-adjusted young adults.
End tantrums by learning how to respond to them
Eliminate back-talk by knowing how to avoid provoking it
Minimize lying with trust-creating strategies
Neutralize sibling fights using one simple method
Establish curfews and boundaries both you and your child are happy with
Increase your ability to prevent bad behavior, before it even starts
Directly influence your child’s great decision-making capabilities
Nurture a strengthened relationship so deep it provides a lifetime of your kids wanting to share everything with you
Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck is the definitive book on parenting. Written as a no-nonsense action plan, this book covers ages 2-20 and all the necessary subjects in between, using humor and wisdom.
The Review
What a compelling and engaging book! The author’s connection with readers early in the book is the perfect way to draw the reader in naturally. The author struck just the right balance between educational and entertaining with this book’s material, not only giving parents guidance on working with their children in a healthy way on behavior but also infusing humor and wit into the writing style itself.
The main draw of this book is the insight into parenting this author brings to the table. The guidance appears simply put, yet holds the complexities that parents often overlook when struggling to find that balance with their children. Not only does the book give details on how to form a working partnership with their child and learn to teach them how to put decision-making skills into practice, but the book also highlights the need for parents to develop mantras and learn to let go of guilt altogether, giving readers a depth and valuable hook to draw parents into the book more and more.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging author Sue Donnellan’s “Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a Fck” is a must-read nonfiction book on parenting that all parents will want to grab for themselves. The reader’s connection to the author herself and the close examination of what drives a child’s behavior and what works to help curb any negative emotions will have readers returning to read this book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Sue Donnellan is an entrepreneur, wife, mother of four (including surprise triplets), and International #1 Best Selling author. As a one-time reluctant parent and reformed yeller, Sue understands the sheer stress that is parenting! Sue has been advising parents, transforming households, and reducing overwhelm for over 20 years with her results-based, no-nonsense method of raising kids.
Respected in the field of parenting, relationship building, and accountable communication, Sue developed her trademark program while in the trenches. In the last 25 years, Sue has built and run three of her own full-time businesses, supported her military husband as he deployed five times, and managed a family of six.
With wisdom and humor, Sue teaches a transformative mindset that gives parents the skills to get positive shifts in behavior, while creating a relationship of lifelong trust and respect with their kids. She has captured her unique methods in her 1st book, Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck, where she tells you how she did it, and how you can, too!
In her ‘free’ time, Sue is also a mom to two dogs. She has discovered a cure for hiccups, created a family recipe for sleep dust, loves the ethereal and timeless singer Sade, appreciates great comedy, and is passionate about living healthy.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young man must fight to gain his father’s crown and give the kingdom back to the peasants who helped make it while an ancient evil seeks to take advantage of the infighting causing chaos amongst the realm in author Ryan Schuette’s “An End to Kings”, the second book in the A King Without a Crown series.
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The Synopsis
In the highly anticipated conclusion to A Seat for the Rabble, former NPR reporter Ryan Schuette returns to Odma, a richly detailed world not unlike our own. Riven by social injustice, wealth inequality, and ancient magic, the Kingdom of Loran stands on the brink of war . . . and the bastard prince, Jason Warchild, means to save it.
With an army of Cloudlanders at his back, Jason marches to the Kingstrials, where he must kill his rivals—including his zealot uncle, Shaddon—to claim his father’s crown and return peasants to power. But winning this deadly game will take more than martial skill and an army. If he fails to win all three Trials, he’ll need the fractious Worthy Assembly to crown him directly—or he’ll lose the kingdom, along with his head.
As class anger festers, Jason’s allies find themselves embattled. At the capital, Princess Lorana Eddenhold navigates her realm’s troubled politics to stamp out plots against her half-brother, even as she dreads Prieslenne Edenia’s return. In the west, Rathos Robswell risks his life to persuade the Loyal Company’s firebrands to cease their infighting and see the bastard prince—along with the dream of a just realm—through a crucible of swords, dragons, and griffons.
Only supernatural forces seem to see all ends. Accompanied by a sorcerer, Zuran races against time to confront the real evil . . . the one exploiting chaos in a kingless land.
The Review
Instantly, readers can see the chaos and conflict that stems from a monarchy without a clear line of succession, along with political moves and corruption at work, that made fantasy series like George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones so beloved in author Ryan Schuette’s incredible sequel. The world-building continues to expand and grow as the action infuses a sense of adrenaline and wonder into this realm. The author’s intense and heavy atmosphere makes the reader feel connected and engaged with the characters throughout this story.
As with the first book of this series, I loved the rich themes of politics, absolute power corrupts absolutely, and the impact chaos has on a society being infused into the narrative in such a natural way. The way this supernatural evil infuses itself into the fighting and uses it to fuel its own needs speaks to the power behind many political movements today that similarly use chaos. The breathtaking character development kept the reader engaged with the narrative, overwhelming the reader with incredible emotional connections and creating complex and thought-provoking characters.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and compelling author Ryan Schuette’s “An End to Kings” is a must-read epic fantasy novel that will set this summer ablaze. The story’s shocking twists, the harrowing dangers the cast of characters face, and the open ending that leaves readers satisfied yet wanting more from this growing series will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The wealth of world-building the author crafts, including historical events of the realm and the decisive moments showcasing the need for inclusion and representation amongst those in power, make this a fantastic novel to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.
Before returning to fantasy fiction and art, Ryan wore a few hats. He’s both illustrated and reported for National Public Radio and various trade publications, including DS News and MReport. He’s also freelanced for Al Jazeera America. He lived and worked in Uganda as a 2008-2009 Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar and holds a master’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C.
Somewhere along the way, he also started a nonprofit and fair-trade lingerie company that operated in West and Central Africa, respectively. Many of his friends still wear safari-print boxers.
Ryan lives in Texas, where he looks after his cat, Rusty.
To learn more about Ryan or his epic fantasy series, A King Without a Crown, visit RyanSchuette.com.
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Interview with Ryan Schuette
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I fell in love with fantasy and sci-fi fiction when I began reading the Dragonlance series and, soon after, the Star Wars Expanded Universe (now Star Wars Legacy) series. The vastness and immersiveness of these fictional worlds staggered me and made me want to replicate them in a world of my own. I authored a few books before A Seat for the Rabble, but this one is the culmination of a lifelong quest. in A Seat for the Rabble, I hope readers will find many of the same things that we saw in Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings: honor, betrayal, lore, forbidden love, moral grayness, and lessons we should all heed about those who pursue power.
2) What inspired you to write your book?
I’ve always wanted to write and publish a work of epic fantasy, but it wasn’t until the Game of Thrones television series that I awakened to something that, to me, was novel: political fantasy. I’ve always had an interest in politics — in how people worked together for society, or didn’t — and had worked in Washington, D.C. I enrolled in a master’s program at American University at the same time my ideas for this novel began to solidify. Reporting from outside the White House, inside the halls of Congress, and on the sidelines of protests, I began to realize that the United States stood on the precipice of a full-fledged constitutional crisis. Wealth inequality, racism, perceptions of corruption in our government, and rancorous partisanship were leading this country down the path to hell. A Seat for the Rabble sprang from a desire to write about a society on the edge of falling apart, one populated by merpeople, elves, gryphons, and dragons.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
That society is a fragile thing, and it shatters if we push people to the margins and overlook inequality. Worse, tyrants often climb to power on the backs of angry, miserable people, especially those misled by conspiracy theories. It’s far better for a society’s leaders to do everything in their power to provide a debt-free, wealthy, and healthy existence for everyone. In A Seat for the Rabble, peasants lack representation in the Worthy Assembly, a congress of classes comparable to pre-revolutionary France’s Estates-General. The protagonists want to restore their seats in this parliament, not only to deliver justice but also to prevent a violent reckoning. Ultimately, the series asks a bigger question: Is man capable of ruling himself without destroying everyone else — and his own planet?
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I’ve always loved the transportive nature of fantasy. I credit Dragonlance, The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Tigana, and the Kingkiller Chronicle with feeding my ambition to create a world of my own.
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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
Great question, Anthony! One of the characters I relished writing, Evan Sinclair, is a noble lord who’s bent on reform for the sake of a united, peaceful realm. A man of peace for the longest time, Evan takes a Machiavellian turn when he realizes that a corrupt system of government won’t make concessions, even for its own self-preservation. While other characters, like his nephew, consider themselves men of honor, Evan isn’t above deceit, bribery, or even murder in the name of justice. He’s an ends-justifies-the-means kinda guy. If I sat down with him, I’d probably argue with him! I’d want to know why he thinks empowering peasants will lead to peace, when his kingdom’s complicated history suggests otherwise.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I’d say Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Facebook helped me update fans and friends about the progress on A Seat for the Rabble for years, while Instagram provided me with a platform to share Ted Nasmith’s exquisite cover art and the chapter illustrations I created. More recently, I partnered with Storygram Tours’ micro-influencers to create videos and posts across Instagram and TikTok. I’m also planning to advertise A Seat for the Rabble and its sequel, An End to Kings, through Facebook’s paid advertising program.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Know your genre, read widely in that genre, and familiarize yourself with the publishing industry and what agents want. I benefited enormously from online workshops through Writer’s Digest University, which gave me the chance to ask questions of agents and submit my work to them for review. I’d also encourage aspiring writers to practice their craft and read The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell. Last but certainly not least, anyone trying to write a book should start with the idea, then develop a chapter-by-chapter plot synopsis. I rewrote A Seat for the Rabble three times over six years, and I owed a large part of that to the plot I revisited endlessly.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I’m a fantasy illustrator as well as an author, and I was thrilled to learn that A Seat for the Rabble’s chapter illustrations recently placed in the Honorable Mention category of the L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Contest, a global competition open to aspiring fantasy and sci-fi artists. I plan to continue creating fantasy art as I embark on another fantasy novel — one that, like A Seat for the Rabble, will touch on pressing contemporary issues with a heavy sprinkling of magic and mythical creatures. And, of course, I plan to release A Seat for the Rabble’s sequel, An End to Kings, this coming year, with more chapter illustrations and another glorious cover by Ted Nasmith. I invite anyone interested in following me to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Marissa Carter shares classic fairy tales with a modern twist in the book “Grimmer Revisionist and Fairytales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes”.
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The Synopsis
Remember when you were a kid, listening to bedtime stories full of classic fairy tales, fables, or nursery rhymes? Maybe you’ve even read those same stories to your kids. But what if you took those familiar tales, tossed out the rulebook, and filled them with modern twists, witty jokes, and a bit of cheeky irreverence? Welcome to the world of Grimmer Revisionist Fairy Tales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes—where nothing is sacred, everything is funny, and adults get to enjoy the ride.
This first compendium is a delightful mix of styles. You’ve got fairy tales and fables, sure, but there’s a twist. The nursery rhymes might start off sweet but could suddenly veer into snarky commentary or morph into a completely different story. Along the way, you’ll encounter nods to pop culture, movies, books, politics, and even a little quantum physics (because, why not?). It’s like someone turned your grandma’s storybook inside out and sprinkled it with a generous dose of mischief. Get ready for a laugh, because this isn’t your childhood fairy tale collection—and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun.
The Review
This new take on the fable/fairy tale genre was entertaining. The author provides unique commentary as each story is told, giving readers some insights into how we as a society view and absorb the themes of these iconic stories. The fast-paced pace of each fable and the unique modern-day story elements, such as the internet or television, allowed the reader to gobble up these stories.
The imaginative use of imagery in the author’s writing allowed these stories to come to life on the page. The three little pigs stood out to me, as the social interactions between the Wolf and each of the pigs were so fun and humorous. The wealth of modern themes, speaking on everything from parenting techniques and anger management to higher education, allowed these classic stories to breathe fresh air into the narrative overall.
The Verdict
Imaginative, heartfelt, and entertaining author Marissa Carter’s “Grimmer Revisionist and Fairytales, Fables, and Nursery Rhymes” is a must-read story collection that brings a remarkable modern twist. The humor and wit that the author pours into each story and how it allows the reader to examine these classics from a fresh perspective gives a unique twist that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Marissa Carter PhD is a biostatistician, epidemiologist, EBM practitioner, and a health economist, spending a lot of her time designing, monitoring, and analyzing clinical studies in the fields of wound care, orthopedics, epidemiology, ophthalmology, and quality of life. Dr Carter’s strengths lie in the many scientific disciplines in which she worked that she brings to bear on medical problems. She is a peer reviewer for many medical journals and has served on medical-committees, been a leader of an international WHO project, and frequently interacts with the FDA and Medicare. She holds an MA in biochemistry from Oxford University and a PhD in chemistry from Brandeis University. She is the author or coauthor of more than 150 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters in medicine and chemistry and her studies have won several awards.
Marissa’s hobbies include international travel, reading, simple hiking, and military history. She also says her sense of humor could be listed as a hobby. Though born in London, UK, she has spent most of her life in the States and currently resides in western Montana.
