Tag: book review

The Ashes of Coral Cove: Murder and Mayhem in Paradise by J.J. Macaw Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A violent storm and a powerful fire reveal a shocking death that unravels a small town’s hidden secrets in author J.J. Macaw’s “The Ashes of Coral Cove: Murder and Mayhem in Paradise.”

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The Synopsis

A massive storm sweeps Coral Cove. Townhall consumed by flames. The city clerk’s tragic death sparks suspicion.

Maxine Harper, (Maxy) is a renowned investigative reporter who returned to her childhood hometown, steps into the web of confusion and chaos with Tony Blane, high school sweetheart turned therapist. Tom Mitchell, a retired cyber sleuthing expert and local bookstore owner, adds his unique skills to the investigative team. Recalled intimacy sparks between Maxy and Tony as they dig through the town’s past..

The arson investigation smolders under the fire chief’s incompetence, and the community’s trust burns out quickly. With remarkable skill and steely determination, the trio unravels a puzzle of cyber clues, red herrings and long buried motives.

A forgotten victim turned villain lurks amid the ashes. With vengeance in his veins and decades of rejection in his heart, he continues his arsonist rampage, targeting Coral Cove’s historic buildings.

As embers cool, the team races against time to uncover the truth before Coral Cove’s history turns to smoke. A shocking confession halts the town’s heart.

The Review

This was a short yet powerful story. The author did a great job immediately captivating readers with vibrant scenery and relatable characters they could invest in. The emotional drama and intimate relationships the story explores, while adding weight to the suspense and mystery this narrative provides, kept the short story feeling balanced and engaging.

This narrative powerfully felt the rich history of this small town and explored small-town life. It explored the all-too-familiar theme of forgotten people and what happens to those forced to live on the fringes of a society, whether that be by choice or circumstance. The emotional heartbreak of that situation and the steady pace at which this mystery unraveled throughout the story made this a standout read.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author J.J. Macaw’s “The Ashes of Coral Cove” is a must-read small-town cozy mystery and suspense thriller. The mystery’s twists and turns, and the attention to detail the author paid to developing these rich characters, will make readers eager for more stories from the author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

J.J.Macaw is a pen name, but the biographical information here is real. His  prose reflects  the experience of being a husband of 34 years, parent and grandparent.  It also reflects his four decades of entrepreneurship, having founded several companies in such diverse fields as water treatment, public policy consulting, fertilizer manufacturing and engineering. This experience lends authenticity to the settings, characters and descriptions of science, technology and business operations as they occur in his novels.

J.J. is an avid sailor spending years sailing San Francisco Bay and its environs.  He also holds Dan rank in Aikido.

There are no spicey sex scenes nor an abundance of cursing or overt graphic violence in his novels . That said, his characters do what real people do and the characters reflect the fullness of their lives.

J.J. lives with his wife and two cats (who own the house). Panama became their home  a few years ago and enjoys writing in that beautiful country.

https://www.jjmacaw.com/

Rune of Whispers (Outside the Thalsparr Series Book Five) by Bjorn Leesson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A seasoned warrior must traverse the game of Saxon politics in author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Whispers”, the fifth book in the Outside the Thalsparr series.

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The Synopsis

Myrgjol the Dokkrsdottir’s path may be fraught with physical dangers and battle, but some wars are fought with whispered words and deceitful lies. While in Saxon lands, she must learn to maneuver the battlefield as well as her position on the board in the game of Saxon politics. Will she be successful?

And though she is blind to all the pieces in The Game, a Saxon gamemaster plays on her behalf as well as his own against many others, and the enormity of the risk spirals out of control for everyone.

The Review

This was a welcome addition to the historical fiction and dark fantasy series! The author found a way to keep the series fresh and showcased the depth of the world this series inhabits, giving readers a fresh new perspective by exploring the politics of Saxon life and Myrgjol’s impact on that world. The way the action takes a backseat to the atmosphere and the tension politics played at that time made the overall narrative feel elevated for readers. 

The mystery and intrigue this turn of events took in the story was evenly matched by the rich historical context and fantasy mythos the series has brought to life so vividly. The more emotional context of the protagonist’s story felt fully realized in this narrative, and the evolution of her allies and how life in Saxon lands evolved among some of the Norse settlers at that time was an intriguing subplot that readers will instantly get lost in.

The Verdict

As a longtime fan of Game of Thrones, Vikings, and The Last Kingdom, author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Whispers” is a must-read historical fiction and fantasy novel and an excellent entry into the Outside the Thalsparr Series.  The suspense and drama that this novel plays into, as well as the more intimate and emotional character development, will give longtime fans of this series a new perspective on which to invest. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Bjorn Leesson has always been fascinated with many topics to include history, the supernatural, and writing. These interests combined led to the Outside the Thalsparr series, with the first book in the series, “Runes of the Dokkrsdottir.” Bjorn was not formally trained as a writer and has worked in the industrial manufacturing field his entire life. Writing his stories and hoping others enjoy them is a passion and not a career.

Forsaken Souls (Callum Walker Series Book 4) by J.M. Shaw Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A brewing war threatens to tear the realm apart as one man must find a way of repairing the veil between the human world and the magical one in author J.M. Shaw’s “Forsaken Souls”, the fourth book in the Callum Walker series. 

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The Synopsis

Driven south by their brethren in the Northern Kingdom, the Der’geron have bided their time for nearly two centuries, nursing hatred and plotting vengeance since their defeat in the great elven war. As a new conflict draws ever closer, Queen Jobella struggles to assert her authority over her northern domain—battling civil unrest, sabotage, and misinformation while attempting to mend fractured alliances.

Meanwhile, Callum and Jax set out on a perilous journey to repair the veil separating the magical realm from the human world. Unbeknownst to them, their path leads directly into the heart of danger, where they are captured by the Der’geron. Imprisoned in the hellish grotto beneath the subterranean city of Elfarian, Callum and Jax are forced to work or die at their enemy’s command.

However, danger turns to horror when Callum learns of the Der’geron King’s plans for the Northern Kingdom and the rest of the realm. What is to come will be a reckoning, not a war. It will be a battle for the ages, where both lives and souls are at stake, and death is not the worst outcome.

Imperilled by violence, assailed by evil energy, and tempted by dark magic, Callum must stand against the rising darkness, but first, he needs to find the strength to face his buried anguish, even at the risk of fracturing what remains of his sanity. Yet, there is hope for a happy ending, if only Callum can summon the courage to accept it.

The Review

This was such a gripping and memorable entry into the Callum Walker series. The mesh of world-building and expansion upon the mythos of this magical world was perfectly executed, allowing the reader to fall deeper and deeper into the world the author has created. The conflict the story explores between the Northern Kingdom and the Der’geron, and the dark magic’s impact on those attempting to wield it, are perfectly captured and elevate the action significantly as the story progresses.

This story’s most significant impact is through the character progression, especially for the protagonist Callum Walker. Between his relationship with his brother Jax, the new allies he makes, and his struggle with past trauma, the readers form an emotional and heartfelt connection with this character, one that keeps the reader engaged thoroughly throughout the story.

The Verdict

Entertaining, thrilling, and haunting in its delivery, author J.M. Shaw’s “Forsaken Souls” is a must-read dark fantasy and genre fiction read with hints of horror and magical realism at the same time. The twists and turns this story takes and the story elements that end with an open-ended note leave a promising and hopeful note for the future of Callum Walker and the character’s series moving forward. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

J. M. Shaw lives in Airdrie, Alberta with her husband and two young children. She has a background in x-ray technology, psychology, and personal training, as well variable personal interests in martial arts, airsoft, and running. A diagnosis of autism for herself and both her sons has begun an incredible journey of understanding, acceptance, and life-long learning. She has immensely enjoyed writing creatively for more than thirty years, and with many novels in various degrees of completion. The Ascension is her debut novel in the Callum Walker series.

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Bold Moves: Quotes and Reflections for Building Confidence and Resilience by Jackiem Joyner Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author and musician Jackiem Joyner shares a collection of quotes to help motivate readers and his thoughts on how each quote can accomplish that in the book Bold Moves.

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The Synopsis 

Life doesn’t hand out greatness—it demands bold moves, resilience, and the courage to stand firm when challenges arise. In Bold Moves, internationally renowned musician and author Jackiem Joyner delivers a transformative collection of quotes and reflections designed to ignite your confidence and inspire purposeful action.

This isn’t just a book of words—it’s your personal guide to navigating life’s peaks and valleys with strength and clarity. Each quote serves as a spark, and every reflection a roadmap, urging you to embrace boldness, persevere through struggles, and trust in your own power to create a meaningful life.

With themes of courage, self-belief, and vision, Bold Moves is crafted for dreamers, doers, and anyone ready to rise to life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking a daily boost of inspiration or a deeper journey into self-discovery, this book meets you where you are and propels you forward.

From a creator who has faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger, Bold Moves is more than a book—it’s a call to action for anyone ready to take charge, push boundaries, and step into the life you’re meant to live.

The Review

This was a fantastic nonfiction read and guidebook for those looking to improve their lives or find the motivation to make the changes they need to accomplish their goals in life. The author curated a collection of quotes across a broad spectrum of themes, from boldness and motivation to self-belief and exuding confidence, allowing readers to find hope and strength for whatever problems they face.

The self-reflection and inner strength the author points to throughout this book, exploring these quotes and how they apply to everyday life, was incredible to see come to life on the page. The honest and straightforward way the author displays allows the reader to connect to the author and their experiences on a personal level. The quotes speak to the human experience and showcase a path towards empowerment that cannot be taken lightly.

The Verdict

Memorable, engaging, and thoughtful in its delivery, author Jackiem Joyner’s “Bold Moves” is a must-read nonfiction book of quotes and reflections that readers won’t put down. The novel’s fast pace and the ability for readers to return to this book repeatedly when they need a boost in their motivation each day will keep readers invested in it long after they finish it. 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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Jackiem Joyner has loved Science Fiction ever since he was a child, fascinated by all the stories and imaginations of futuristic worlds. But it wasn’t until later in his life, after experiencing huge success in the recording business, that he decided to put pen to paper – the result of which is his debut novel, Zarya.

Gathering from his experiences traveling the world as a recording artist, he developed a knack for good science fiction stories after reading several books a month. Having used and operated many devices from the future, he incorporated exciting equipment and imaginary scientific ideas into dramatic thrillers that are sure to keep readers on edge.

Jackiem was born in Norfolk, Virginia and spent most of his young adult life in Syracuse New York before moving to Los Angeles, California where he currently resides. In addition to writing fun stories, Jackiem Joyner has experienced huge success as a recording artist, with multiple songs peaking at number 1 on the billboard charts and 5 international records released.

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Mission Thaw: A Kaitlyn Stewart Spy Thriller by Kay Sparling Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A promising CIA Agent must infiltrate a cartel by posing as an opera singer and discovers a far more sinister plot at work than anyone realized in author Kay Sparling’s “Mission Thaw: A Kaitlyn Stewart Spy Thriller.”

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The Synopsis

Near the end of the Cold War, Kaitlyn Stewart lands an apprenticeship at the Vienna State Opera. Soon after arriving, she is recruited by the CIA as the only female high profile operative in Mission: THAW. Both CIA and MI6 are in a race against time to uncover a human trafficking cartel set up by fascist Western politicians who are in business with the East Germans and KGB. They are exploiting refugees from the former satellite countries of the USSR. Mission: THAW must infiltrate the cartel in order to shut down the trafficking and destroy the slave labor in East Germany. If the GDR economy fails, the Berlin Wall will come down. Covering as an opera singer, Kaitlyn infiltrates the inner circle of the KGB and neo-Nazis, only to find out that they have a much more deadly, lucrative plan in the making: blueprints for a dirty bomb. MI6 agent Clive Matthews, who is considered the best secret agent in the free world, skillfully guides Kaitlyn through the crazy maze of the mission. Based on fact.

The Review

What a fun and engaging spy thriller! The author did an incredible job of capturing the tension and heavy atmosphere of the Cold War era, a time when spies were prevalent in the social fabric of our world. The action and suspense that came with the narrative of this novel, from the perils of human trafficking to the danger of a dirty bomb and the fate of entire nations as a whole, played well on the page and kept the reader invested efficiently.

This narrative’s unique character development, perspectives, and themes were spectacular. The protagonist, a mix of James Bond meets Clarice Starling with an opera singer twist, is such an engaging protagonist to root for, and her humorous takes on the world help elevate the tension and fear of her mission as it takes on a life of its own. The particular time frame that this novel takes place in, at the end of The Cold War, was a great new perspective to bring readers, and the themes of patriotism, morality, and the power secrets hold were greatly threaded into the story and gave readers a fresh take on a fan favorite genre.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, entertaining, and gripping, author Kay Sparling’s “Mission Thaw” is a must-read spy thriller and suspense novel. The narrative’s twists and turns, the fantastic pacing that kept readers interested while hinting at growing plot points, and the characters’ emotional development made this a memorable novel that readers won’t want 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

Kay Sparling is an international opera and sacred singer. Now retired, she lives in the Upper Midwest with her feline writing buddy, the invincible Paducah. When not teaching voice lessons or writing, Kay enjoys gardening, hiking, adventure travelling, and cooking for family and friends.

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PRESS RELEASE: DEATH AT A WEDDING BOOK RELEASE

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Creative Edge Publicity Press Releases, PRESS RELEASES1 Comment

Death At a Wedding

An unexpected dark comedy spin on what happens when you send Death a wedding invitation by critically acclaimed author, 

Marc Watson

Set for release and sold internationally on April 8th by Fluky Fiction in eBook and print format!

Death, the Grim Reaper himself, has received his first ever wedding invitation. Although perceived as an all-knowing, all-powerful being, he’s still clueless on how to act in public. That… and what to do about all the mysterious rips forming in time and space, threatening to consume all of existence.

But maybe, just maybe, Victoria can help him out with all of that before it’s too late.

In this unexpectedly dark romantic comedy sequel to Death Dresses Poorly, Ethan will come face to face with new love, old loss, completely average hamburgers, and finding out exactly what it takes to finally be free.
Death at a Wedding – Kindle edition by Watson, Marc, Fiction, Fluky. Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

OTHER WORKS BY MARC WATSON

Death Dresses Poorly by [Marc Watson]

Ethan is a directionless twenty-something who has finally cast off the heartbreaking responsibilities of his broken boyhood home, but not without irreversible scars and sarcasm. After surviving a tragic accident, he begins to suspect he may actually have something to live for. Is it a hidden purpose? His new beginning? Finding a decent cup of coffee?

The answer is unclear, until one morning a familiar stranger appears. The poorly dressed man at Ethan’s door seems to have all the answers. But with those answers comes a grave proposition.

Witty and realistically sarcastic; full of self-redemption and the dark, cosmic inner-workings of life and death. Comically sharp yet lighthearted, Death Dresses Poorly is the bittersweet tale of a young man’s journey through the discarded baggage of his childhood.

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ABOUT MARC:

Marc Watson is an author of genre fiction of all lengths and styles. His debut novel Death Dresses Poorly was released in 2017, and you can find stories in his science-fantasy Ryuujin World in Catching Hell: Journey and Catching Hell: Destination (all from Fluky Fiction) as well as the short story collection Between Conversations: Tales From the World of Ryuujin. 

Marc lives in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He is a husband to a very patient wife and a proud father of two. He is an avid outdoorsman, baseball player, martial artist, poutine aficionado, and lover of all Mexican foods. 

He can be found at online http://www.marcwatson.ca, as well as on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/marcwroteabook, and on all other social media at @writewatson

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The Beauty and the Hell of It & Other Stories by Lynda Williams Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

TRIGGER WARNING: THEMES OF SELF-HARM, ABUSE, AND MORE RUN THROUGHOUT THESE STORIES AND MAY FEATURE SCENES DEPICTING AS SUCH. READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

In author Lynda Williams’s “The Beauty and the Hell of It & Other Stories,” people tackle the expectations of who they are told they are and instead quietly resist being who they know they are.

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The Synopsis

A woman comes face to face with her rapist at his engagement party. A teen reluctantly celebrating the first Christmas after her mother’s death gets caught cutting her wrists by a stranger. A student hands in a box of Kraft Dinner as her final assignment, and a bipolar art teacher grieves her divorce by online shopping. Don’t Look Back is a collection of stories about women (and one man) who quietly resist and the resulting moments of transition, acceptance, and vindication. Whether they wrestle with grief, growth, trauma, or all three, these characters don’t give in to expectations about who or how they should be. These stories will appeal to readers who enjoyed the pivotal moments of ordinary life in Sophie Stocking’s Walking Leonard and Other Stories and those who want a slice of contemporary womanhood served up with dark humour as offered in Meghan Bell’s Erase and Rewind.

The Review

This was such a compelling and engaging collection of short stories. The author perfectly captured the trials and injustices of life that so many women and people in general have to face on any given day. The balance the author found in bringing these difficult events and conversations to light in the dialogue and stories themselves, with the humor and wit of the characters’ conversations and personal character growth, was remarkable to see come to life on the page.

Throughout these painful and relatable experiences, the author showcased a unique voice in the writing style of each story that spoke to the reader on a deeper level. The featured stories played on themes of abuse, loss, grief, and so much more, and each tale held an emotional and introspective look into how these events affect the mind. At the same time, the rest of the world refuses to slow down with those afflicted by these triggering events.

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The Verdict 

Profound, thoughtfully written, and engaging, author Lynda Williams’ “The Beauty and the Hell of It” is a must-read collection of short stories. The heart and realism featured in these stories will spark a relatability within many readers, and the emotional depth of each character’s struggles and the fantastic pacing of each tale will keep readers invested in every story being told. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on September 1st, 2025 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Lynda Williams (she/her) is a short fiction writer and champion of unlikeable female characters. Her debut collection, The Beauty and the Hell Of It & Other Stories, is forthcoming from Guernica Editions in 2025.

https://www.lyndawilliams.ca/

To Be a Fae (Realm Chronicles Book 5) by Tricia Copeland Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A Queen must decide where her allegiances reside and how to bring peace to two realms in author Tricia Copeland’s “To Be a Fae”, the final book in the Realm Chronicles series.

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The Synopsis

Evil lurks in unexpected places.

Poised to usher in a new era of unity for all fae, Queen Titania grasps for a solution for her people. With chaos in the human realm and her own, she’s stretched to make progress in either.

She finds she can’t turn her back on the witches when they’re so close to finding the key to ending Sonia’s reign of terror, but Titania worries for her fae and their need for continuity.

Both realms are on a collision course with chaos, and Titania must choose whether her people will be best served by aiding in the battle the witches wage against Sonia or by stabilizing warring forces in the fae realm.

One fateful day turns the tide, leaving Titania questioning all her allies.

How do you stop evil when it resides within everyone?

To be a Fae is the final book in the Realm Chronicles series and a harrowing, twisted tale of a fae queen’s attempts to secure the realms of Middle and Upper Earth.

Read To be a Fae to embolden Titania as she fights for peace today!

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The Review

This was a gripping, powerful, and engaging finale to a thrilling fantasy series. The staggering heights the author’s world-building reached in this narrative were nothing short of incredible, and the emotional payoff for so many characters and their arcs throughout this series was breathtaking to witness. The first-person perspective readers get through Queen Titania’s eyes throughout the narrative shows how hands-on she is as a protagonist and leader to her people, getting into the thick of the battles being waged against this mad archangel and the forces pitted against them. 

The powerful themes and emotional character developments are what made this book, and the series overall, so compelling to begin with. The theme of betrayal ran deep throughout this book, turning this fantasy story into a politically charged and personal story of the sting betrayal brings and the questions it raises as a leader to others in that same process. The protagonist’s decisions show the duality of her nature as a ruler, her duty to her own heart, and the sacrifices she must make for both. 

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The Verdict

Thought-provoking, entertaining, and memorable, author Tricia Copeland’s “To be a Fae” is a strong finish to the Realm Chronicles series and a must-read fantasy-driven novel. The shocking twists and turns of the story, as well as the emotional payoffs it provides and the balance between the protagonist’s resilience in the face of betrayal and her brushes with politics and war, will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the book’s final page. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on July 29th, 2025 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Young adult fiction author Tricia Copeland believes in finding magic. She believes magic infuses every aspect of our lives and each of us create our own brand of magic. Whether transforming hearts, lives, numbers, ideas, art, music, or simply enjoying nature, we discover magic every day. She aims to write stories that show what is possible when one commits to finding their own version of magic. With urban fantasy and paranormal young adult titles, you’re sure to find a magical character and story line to love within her books.

Whether you’re looking for a fun romance, inspiring story of strength, fantasy, paranormal, or a dystopian sci-fi, you’ve come to the right place. Award-winning author Tricia Copeland grew up in Georgia but now calls Colorado home. If she’s not on the trail you can find her creating magical stories at www.triciacopeland.com.

L Ron Hubbard Presents: Writers of the Future Volume 41 REVIEW

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The 41st volume of the acclaimed sci-fi and fantasy anthology series L. Ron Hubbard Presents: Writers of the Future is now available!

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The Synopsis

Step into the extraordinary with L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41—an anthology that promises the unexpected, the thought-provoking, and the unforgettable. Celebrating the best new voices in speculative fiction, this collection offers gripping tales of science fiction, fantasy, and beyond.

Discover Distant Worlds


Explore alien landscapes, futuristic technologies, and hidden realms. From time-traveling adventures to battles for survival in dystopian societies, these stories transport you far beyond the limits of imagination.

Meet Extraordinary Heroes


Follow protagonists who face impossible odds—from a young constable on a harsh alien frontier to a reclusive writer sharing a ride with a sentient car. These characters redefine courage, resilience, and what it means to be human.

Experience Visual Wonder


Every story is brought to life with breathtaking original illustrations. These commissioned works add depth, color, and vibrancy to the collection, making it a visual and literary masterpiece.

Learn from the Legends


Gain inspiration from essays by L. Ron Hubbard, Robert J. Sawyer, and Tom Wood, offering rare insights into storytelling and creative mastery.

Discover Tomorrow’s Stars


This volume continues the legacy of Writers of the Future, the competition that has launched myriad bestselling authors. These rising talents are reshaping speculative fiction as we know it.

Whether you love heart-pounding action, thought-provoking “what ifs,” or stories that blur the line between science and magic, Volume 41 is your gateway to new dimensions. With tales and illustrations that linger long after the final page, this anthology invites you to take the leap into worlds uncharted.

Push Beyond the Ordinary. Explore the Extraordinary.


Grab your copy of L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 and discover the next generation of visionary storytellers and artists.

The Review

Another intense and captivating collection of artwork and stories, this collection perfectly balances rich storytelling with engaging action and world-building. Each author found a means of bringing their unique voice and mythos to their respective worlds, and the range of artwork for each story, from classic fantasy art to more realistic sci-fi depictions, made these worlds feel alive and vibrant on their respective pages.

A standout story for me was The Rune Witch by Jefferson Snow. The dark fantasy tale tells the story of a rune witch and new mother, who must keep a demon barricaded behind a magical barrier while trying to raise her daughter for the same task someday. The story played a lot of themes well into the narrative, from the lengths a parent will go to to give their child a better life, to the responsibilities a person has to family versus their responsibilities to the world, and so much more. The emotional depth of these characters and their rich world reflected the overall grand nature of this anthology and how inviting these stories became.

The Verdict

Between an entertaining assortment of stories, beautiful artwork, and even powerful and moving essays and insights from people like artist Tom Wood, this anthology collection of science fiction and fantasy is a must-read book. The twists and turns each story takes, and the fantastic pacing keeping readers invested in each tale, made this one collection readers will refuse to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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