Tag: book review

The House Filler (China China Trilogy Book One) by Tong Ge 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 woman who has endured hardship and struggle through poverty, war and more must find a way of saving her son in author Tong Ge’s “The House Filler”, the first book in the China China Trilogy.

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The Synopsis

A family saga set in China during the most tumultuous time of the twentieth century including the Japanese invasion, the civil war, and the Communist takeover.

The House Filler is told through the experiences of Golden Phoenix, a woman who faces war, poverty, and political oppression as she fights for survival, freedom and happiness. After the untimely death of her husband, Golden Phoenix is determined to keep her family together. However, poverty forces her to make the heart-wrenching decision to give her teenage twins to the Red Army. During the upheaval of the Japanese invasion of her hometown, she is separated from her two young girls, and her remaining son leaves to fight with the Nationalist army. Golden Phoenix, along with her adopted son, remains to endure the horror and hardship of war. When the civil war ends with the Communists in power in 1949, one of her twins, who had joined the Communist Party, is wrongly accused of being a traitor and is sentenced to death. Golden Phoenix and her family must find a way to save her son’ s life.

The House Filler is a moving and powerful portrayal of one family’ s struggle to survive in the face of an historical upheaval and political oppression.

The Review

What a dynamic and compelling novel. The author immediately found the perfect balance between historical fiction storytelling and character-driven narrative. The stark cultural contrast will immediately stand out to readers, exploring everything from women’s rights and place in society to family dynamics, beauty standards, and much more. The political drama and upheaval of that era also helped elevate the protagonist’s personal stakes in this novel.

The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey and the rich themes of the narrative stood out in this novel. The exploration of loyalty, love, and family all played a heavy hand in the book, and the realism and attention to detail made the story feel more engaging and highlighted the human condition in the face of overwhelming tragedy or hardships suffered during these historical times. 

The Verdict

A truly memorable and thoughtful read, author Tong Ge’s “The House Filler” is a must-read historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, the heartbreaking realities of this era, and the sobering yet powerful finale 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

Tong Ge was born and raised in China and moved to Canada in 1988. She began writing the China China trilogy in 2004 with the first book: The House Filler. Although she was challenged by learning to write in English and by her long- term disability, she persevered and since 2012 has published poetry and prose in English and Chinese in publications such as Prism, Ricepaper, Flow, Canadian Stories, and The Polyglot. Tong Ge lives in Calgary, Alberta.

The Door at the End of Everything by Lynda Monahan 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 poet Lynda Monahan shares a powerful collection of poetry in honor of the people who contend with mental health on a daily basis in the collection “The Door at the End of Everything”.

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The Synopsis

Written while Lynda Monahan was hospital writer-in-residence at the Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert, working often on the adult and youth mental health wards, the tight, pared poems in The Door at the End of Everything give voice to and honour those living with mental illness, speaking to not only the suffering but also the courage and hope that is so clearly there as well.

Several of the poems and poetry sequences have seen publication in various literary journals, including Grain, The Society, The New Quarterly, Transition, Bareback, and Dalhousie Review, and in the poetry anthologies Writing Menopause (Inanna Publications), Lummox Anthology of Canadian Poetry, Worth More Standing (Caitlin Press), the Apart pandemic anthology (Saskatchewan Writers Guild), and Line Dance (Burton House Books), and in various tanka publications such as Atlas Poetica, A Hundred Gourds, and Gusts. A series of online readings from this collection, created with the help of a Canada Council grant, are available on YouTube.

The Review

What a profound and heartbreaking read! The author captures the voice and trauma of these individuals who suffer through and endure the pain of mental health trauma. The visceral nature of the poems’ themes and the thought-provoking imagery in the author’s writing style paint a picture of the turmoil so many feel inside, to the point that these feelings feel almost personified in the writing itself.

The emotional core of these poems and the powerful themes made this book what it is today: moving. The writing was indeed illuminating, as it allowed readers not only to feel and understand the internal struggles of so many people and the tragic reasoning for so many who make the hard decisions that impact their lives and the lives they leave behind, but it also allowed readers to see the promise of hope for those who fight through those struggles and search for the means of internal peace, in this case through the beauty and serenity of nature itself.

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The Verdict

Overall, this was a moving and heartfelt read. The author did a brilliant job of capturing the heart and the passion that so many feel for developing this need to further the cause of mental health awareness. The imagery and atmosphere that the author creates through these poems and the emotional themes that the author explores make this a pivotal book that readers should return to time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Murder by Storm by Russell Little 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 mother and mastermind criminal attempts to thwart authorities and the obsessed and disgraced former investigator hot on her heels by destroying evidence of her crimes amidst a deadly storm in author Russell Little’s “Murder by Storm”.

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The Synopsis 

Marilyn is a master of deception, a chameleon living multiple lives to shield her sweet son while ensnaring naive couples in her web of schemes across Houston, Texas. Free from the clutches of the law, she weaves her plans with calculated precision. But shadows from her past loom large—her deranged mother and subservient stepfather, relentlessly badgering her with their fearful questions.

And then there’s O.C. Simms, the disgraced police detective obsessed with bringing her down. Fired for failing to catch her, Simms is haunted by the belief that Marilyn murdered her lover and lawyer, Ed. He’s relentless, determined to hunt her until he’s either vindicated or dead, defying his former captain’s orders.

As a hurricane bears down on Houston, Marilyn sees both a threat and an opportunity. The storm’s fury will devastate the city, creating chaos and diverting attention. Amid the tempest’s destruction, she crafts her most daring plan yet, aiming to exploit the storm to erase all traces of her crimes. But Simms remains undeterred, a relentless force pursuing her through the floodwaters.

Can Marilyn turn the storm to her advantage, keeping the police at bay and obliterating the evidence? Will she slip through the cracks of justice once more? In this high-stakes game of cat and mouse, the storm is just the beginning. Dive into a crime thriller where every moment is a battle for survival, and every decision could be her last.

The Review

What a captivating thriller! The author does an incredible job of balancing the stories of Marilyn and O.C., giving readers each the perspective of the criminal and the police at the same time. The cat-and-mouse element of the story really is played up well, and the chilling background of the hurricane and the criminal using the chaos from the storm to erase their crimes adds to the mounting tensions between Marilyn and O.C. overall.

The character growth was on point in this novel, allowing the reader to become invested in the story as each protagonist had more of their backstory revealed, and their journey saw them grow over time. Marilyn’s backstory with her mother and stepfather, as well as the relationship with her son, added more heart and complexity to her story, while O.C.’s struggle from the first book and the love and family he finds for himself along the way add to the rising stakes in the book’s closing chapters. 

The Verdict

Heart-pounding, thrilling, and entertaining author Russell Little’s “Murder by Storm” is a must-read psychological and crime thriller. The narrative’s twists and turns and explosive cliffhanger will have fans eager for more from this masterful storyteller. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on October 22nd, 2024 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Russell G. Little is a writer and practicing divorce attorney. Murder for Me is a fictionalized compilation of the many people he’s encountered over his lifetime and thirty-two-year career.

He lives in Houston, Texas, with his wife of thirty-two years, Melinda.

www.russelllittleauthor.com

Nuggets of Hope: Cultivate Kindness by Kim Lengling 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 Kim Lengling shares the little moments of kindness that have the biggest impact on people’s lives in the book “Nuggets of Hope: Cultivate Kindness”.

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The Synopsis

Kindness is a beacon of hope and connection in a world often overshadowed by stress and uncertainty. Nuggets of Hope invites you to embark on a journey of compassion towards others and yourself. The author reveals the transformative power of simple acts of kindness through heartwarming personal stories and practical advice.

Discover how to turn everyday moments into opportunities for spreading joy. Learn how small gestures, like a smile or a helping hand, can create ripples of positivity that extend far beyond their initial impact, touching lives you may never know. The author’s mission is clear: to inspire you to make your slice of the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.

In Nuggets of Hope, you will find Personal anecdotes of sharing physical “Nuggets of Hope,” illustrating the profound effects of kindness. Practical tips for integrating kindness into your daily life, regardless of how busy or stressed you might feel. Insights into the importance of self-compassion and how being kind to yourself enhances your ability to be kind to others.

Join the author in spreading hope and positivity. Remember, it costs nothing to be kind, and its rewards are immeasurable. Choose to cultivate kindness and watch your part of the world transform into a more connected, compassionate, and hopeful place.

The Review

This is a memorable and heartfelt read. The author writes honestly and compellingly, allowing the reader to feel the emotional impact these acts of kindness can have on others. The fast pace of the book and the relatability of the author’s writing allows readers to connect to the themes and heart of this book instantly.

The author’s use of hope as a driving force in the book stuck out to me. The way hope is linked to a light in the darkness is an essential message that has always driven me in my own life, making the author’s work so much more relatable. Whether you are a religious person or not, the message of kindness and hope that each chapter perfectly captures will stay with readers long after the book ends.

The Verdict

Honest, compelling, and engaging author Kim Lengling’s “Nuggets of Hope” is a must-read nonfiction and inspirational book. The author poured heart and passion into this book, and the balance of lesson-building with personal anecdotes allowed it to shine. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on November 15th, 2024 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

As a multi-published author, Kim shares her love of nature, animals, living with PTSD, and her mission of tossing Nuggets of Hope into the world through writing and her podcast, Let Fear Bounce.

She is the lead author and coordinator of a collaborative 3-book series titled When Grace Found Me and two stand-alone anthologies, When Hope Found Me (released November 2022) and Paw Prints on the Couch (released August 2023.)

In addition to writing, she hosts the podcast Let Fear Bounce, spotlighting people who make a positive difference in the world, whether by writing, film production, philanthropy, teaching, founding non-profits, and more.

You can regularly find Kim drinking copious amounts of coffee and taking long walks with her dog.

https://www.kimlenglingauthor.com

Tales of Howloween: A Collection of Short Stories Review

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

Authors such as D.C. Gomez, S.R. Griffith and more gather to share a fun and spooky collection of supernatural meets fantasy short stories in the collection “Tales of Howloween”.

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The Synopsis

A Red Moon Rises this Halloween, so heed the howls and enter a world of wonder, danger and desire. Tales of Howloween presents a thrilling collection of nine supernatural tales that will keep you guessing until the final stroke of midnight.

In “Forest Fated”, wolf shifter Cassius captures renegade mage Ariella, sparking an electric connection hinting at a prophecy older than the forest itself. As an evil wizard spreads, Cassius and Ariella must team up against all instincts.

Nature spirits Cait and Milo struggle to find their place in “A Red Moon Rises” grim future world. And when reality itself is questioned in “The Midnight Pack”, logic-seeker Avalon finds her ancestry holds secrets unlocking a world she never believed.

You will fall in love with these spellbinding romances, “Moonlit Desires” where a fated meeting awakens new possibilities. As well as “White Falls Haunt” where a magical marriage isn’t what it seems. In “Celestial Rescue” where an alien rescue leads to cosmic desires, satisfy all cravings for chills, thrills and intimate encounters.

A twisted tale of football players turned werewolves in “The Wolves” while keep you guessing, as the team seeks for easy ways to win.

The magic continues in the fun shape-shifting mystery of “For Shuck’s Sake.” Sometimes an accident will change your life.

Join the Reapers Crew in the Urban fantasy adventures “Bloodstone” as they tried to stop a cult from waking the God Set.

So stalk these pages and feel the moon’s call. Delve into a menagerie of mischief and magic under star-pricked skies. But be warned – mysteries abound in these Woods and ghosts linger beyond the last page. The howling has only just begun…

The Review

This was such a fantastic collection. The authors all found the perfect balance of spooky atmosphere for the Halloween season with the rich world-building in which fantasy genre storytelling is proficient. Each author’s powerful imagination translates perfectly into these stories, and the fast pacing and the way the tension compliments the more fun and humorous moments between the characters made this collection fun to get lost in.

While each of these stories was amazing, one story that stood out was from D.C. Gomez, an author who I have reviewed many of their books, and their story Bloodstone. The story ties into the author’s Intern Diaries series, following Bartholomew the Reaper, in an international story directly into Egyptian mythology and werewolves. As a fan of both and a fan of this series, getting to see Bartholomew rise as the protagonist of this particular tale and the back-and-forth relationship between him and Bob was so much fun and allowed the chilling nature of these wolves and their cult dedicated to Set to rise naturally.

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The Verdict

A powerful collection of short stories that speak to readers of the fantasy genre in a way that makes them feel included in the Halloween season, Tales of Howloween is a must-read short story collection. The infusion of romance, supernatural thrillers, and fantasy storytelling allowed the collection to shine brightly during Halloween. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

To Be a Fae Rogue (Realm Chronicles Book 4) by Tricia Copeland 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 queen who has lost everything must decide if she has anything left to give in order to stop a growing threat in author Tricia Copeland’s “To Be a Fae Rogue”, the fourth book in the Realm Chronicles series.

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The Synopsis

“I am dead, and I need not abide by any law but my own.” – Titania

Unknown to most fae, their biggest threat lies beneath them, watching, waiting perhaps, but for what? Or whom?

Queen Titania gave up everything, her kingdom, her family, her friends, and her home, to end Sonia. Alas, Sonia’s soul lives and grows more powerful, threatening annihilation of the human realm.

Titania’s supposed death may be the only thing deterring Sonia from unleashing her wrath on the Fae Realm as well, but Titania has a sworn duty to protect the humans. Does she dare risking detection by aiding the witches in stopping Sonia from unleashing Hell on Earth?

All Titania has left is the one fae who’s pledged his love for her. Can she risk losing him, too?

To Be a Fae Rogue, the fourth book of the Realm Chronicles series, is an adventure in discovering whether the disparate beings of the human realm can set aside their differences to stop impending doom.

Read To Be a Fae Rogue to find out if Titania can outwit a powerful dark angel today!

The Review

This was an impressive and engaging fantasy read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the world-building that a story of this magnitude needs. The way the author explores the hierarchy of fantasy creatures and the injustices being done in that world was a great exploration of our world, and the protagonist’s fight to protect all supernatural beings was terrific to see come to life on the page. I will say that as a newcomer, it is essential for readers to fully immerse themselves in the previous entries in the series to fully appreciate the rich story and mythos the author has crafted, as well as the sacrifices the protagonist made to get to this point in the story.

Yet this only intrigued me more in the story and will have me returning to read the first three books. The protagonist’s evolution is terrific in this story, as her years of responsibility finally allow her to live the life she wants. Still, the story also plays with the weight of responsibility, making balancing life and work difficult for many people. Titania’s drive to protect her people and stop this growing threat makes her a compelling hero with whom readers can easily engage.

The Verdict

Thrilling, memorable, and engaging author Tricia Copeland’s “To Be a Fae Rogue” is a must-read fantasy novel and a grand entry in the Realm Chronicles series. The rich world the author has developed and the high-octane drama mixed with the high stakes that Sonia’s wrath represents to the world allow the reader to feel fully immersed in the world the author has crafted, making this one book readers won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab 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.

The Convergence (Callum Walker Series Book Two) 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. 

After returning to Earth to find some normalcy after becoming a powerful warlock, Callum Walker must contend with a new battle as the Goddess of Light faces the Eternal Darkness in author J.M. Shaw’s “The Convergence”.

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The Synopsis

The Winter War is over, but another battle has begun—the tug-of-war between the darkness and the purveyor of light. Theia, The Goddess of Light, steward of goodness and life, must square off against her counterpart, Omus, The Eternal Darkness, fomenter of corruption and death.

Following the ravages of warfare, Esme, the elven queen, is desperate to maintain her hold on her kingdom. Desiring uncontestable power to maintain her reign, she sells her soul to The Eternal Darkness, Omus. This spirit of darkness tricks Esme into becoming his vessel, dominating and suppressing her in his own pursuit of ultimate, unchallenged authority over The Goddess of Light, the warlock, and the world at large.

After narrowly escaping death, Callum Walker has reluctantly accepted his destiny as a warlock, but he struggles to understand and manage his arcane power. Attempting to regain some normalcy in his chaotic life, Callum leaves the magical realm, crossing the hidden veil and returning to the land of humans. Soon after, he is begrudgingly dragged into another conflict. Guided by Theia, The Goddess of Light, Callum commits to using his magic to ensure that the light will prevail over the darkness.

Confronted by orcs, harpies, and other obstacles, Callum forges on, seeking to discern who his true enemies are, who will betray him, and who will aid him in saving the world from damnation.

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The Review

This was such a powerful and fantastic sequel. The latest entry in the Callum Walker series did an excellent job of building upon the mythos and world-building that the first book began and elevating the threats and creatures that populate both worlds. The second book utilizes powerful imagery of both the creatures and worlds in the author’s writing, allowing the reader to feel instantly transported each time the protagonist crosses the veil between our world and the magical realm. 

The first book plays with the protagonist accepting his growing power and role in the Winter War, and the second book explores how the protagonist steps into his role as a warlock and hero in the magical realm. From his connection to local druids to the tension mounting between himself and the Elven Queen Esme and the growing battle between the Goddess of Light and the Eternal Darkness, Callum’s story and journey grows exponentially in this second book.

The Verdict

Harrowing, richly developed, and entertaining author J.M. Shaw’s “The Convergence” is a must-read fantasy thriller and a grand entry in the Callum Walker series. The twists and turns in the story and the constant barrage of intrigue that the protagonist faces as the narrative progresses will keep readers enthralled until the book’s final chapter. 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.

https://jmshawauthor.com

Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair by Bob Brill Review

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

The infamous hero of the west returns to deliver justice to those in need in author Bob Brill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair”.

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The Synopsis

The Los Angeles Affair is the second in the Lancer; Hero of the West series of western novels by Bob Brill. Lancer is a mysterious good-guy gunslinger who hires out to those in need of his services. He solves crimes first by using his wits, the his fists and then and only then, his gun. An excellent marksman, Lancer doesn’t lose when the gun is used. Based in Tombstone in the 1880’s, Lancer came from the East, a former Union officer. He comes from money so while his fees are high they are not important to him. Justice is. A respecter of women and children and a man “of the law” he is not a lawman.

Lancer is a compilation of the western television heroes of the 1950’s and 1960’s. Combined with award winning writer Bob Brill’s own ideas of what a man of justice of the 1880’s should be, Lancer is a man everyone would like to call friend. Women would like to call him more than a friend and they often do.

Lancer, a world traveler, likes the finer things in life but he’s not afraid to get down and dirty. Well bred and well read, he often quotes Shakespeare or the great poets and philosophers.

A man of the people, Lancer is someone you’d love to meet and you are certainly glad he’s on your side. He has a sweet tooth as well, always carrying in his saddle bags a small box of Turkish Delight.

His great horse Lincoln is a mighty steed and named after the Great American President, Lincoln is as trusted as it gets. A song about Lancer; Hero of the West, written by Oscar and Grammy winners (Al Kasha and Ron Dante) and performed by Dante, can be found on YouTube.

The Review

This is a fantastic sequel to a creative and engaging Western series. The author did a marvelous job blending international intrigue and mystery into the classic Western setting. The exploration of Los Angeles as a setting during this era before it became the metropolis that the city is known for today was thought-provoking, as it allowed readers to see what this land was like while being occupied by various representatives of different nations. 

The action and the wealth of character development made this story shine. The dynamics between Lancer and this cast of characters are stellar, with the intrigue of new romances, government mystery, and villainy with a powerful family running about. The hero is an icon, standing up for what’s right even in the face of a world that tells him he’s wrong and proving that even gunslingers and heroes of the West have what it takes to make a difference through masterful imagery in the author’s writing style.

The Verdict

Remarkable, entertaining, and thoughtful, author Bob Brill’s “Lancer: Hero of the West: The Los Angeles Affair “ is a must-read western. The shocking twists and turns in the narrative, from a political wedding gone wrong to a tragic death leading to a hunt for a mystery “Russian,” made this a compelling story that readers will be eager to get back into with a third book. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of Pittsburgh, PA and a hardcore Pirates and Steelers fan, Bob began in radio career in 1972 and worked all over the western US, several times in the L-A market. He’s currently a news anchor at CBS Radio LA; KNX 1070 News Radio.

Bob has won multiple broadcast awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award (among others) for anchoring KNX’s storm coverage in 2011.

A baseball historian, Bob writes the very popular weekly column found at http://www.baseballinthe1960s.com. He also is a podcaster who has teamed with former NFL Quarterback Erik Kramer for a weekly Fantasy Football Podcast called Kramer and Brill, which can be found where ever you get your podcasts or at their website www.kramerandbrill.com. Both are always posted on Facebook as well as Twitter.

Bob made his mark with the UPI Radio Network when a gunman went crazy in a San Diego fast food restaurant and Bob covered the story. It was his first big break. He later became a UPI National Correspondent and Bureau Chief. He has interviewed presidents, covered Super Bowl games and Hollywood as well as major news stories.

He lives in L-A. He has survived earthquakes and a beating during the 1992 L-A riots while covering the story, which was recorded on audio tape.

Bob is considered to have an excellent voice and has not only done many voice overs and radio spots, he’s starred in television commercials. Bob authored “Fan Letters to a Stripper: A Patti Waggin Tale” from Schiffer Publishing and “NO BARRIER: How the Internet Destroyed the World Economy.” His third book “Al Kabul; Home Grown Terrorist” is sure to be a controversial novel as well as a great read. “Lancer; Hero of the West – The Prescott Affair” is the first in a series of western novels set in the 1880’s, centering on the central figure; Lancer. Lancer is a gun for hire, good guy, who works the West out of Tombstone.

http://www.lancerheroofthewest.blogspot.com/

Eternity’s End (Eternal Chronicles Book 5) by Zachary Hagen Review

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

A mad villain continues his path of destruction in a bid to reclaim his ultimate form, and a band of heroes are all that stand in his way in author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s End”, the fifth and final book in the Eternal Chronicles series.

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The Synopsis

Either let it burn, or drown it in the waves.

Taariq has continued his descent into madness, and his supporters are more devoted than ever, at least for a time. As he pursues his ultimate goal of reclaiming his dragon form and tearing Aelon and Michael from their throne, Elior, Nereza, Opal, and Nyx aim to follow Michael’s call, but it isn’t easy.

Building a boat in the peaks of Nanony seems foolish to most, and plagues divide the faithful from the merely present until dragon-fire rains down and flood waters rise. Will Taariq finally be defeated, or will his mad rush for power prove successful against the forces of light?

This final installment of The Eternal Chronicles brings together old friends and lovers for one final battle that will decide the fate of Lux and Nox Terra forevermore. This fast-paced tale will keep you hooked from cover to cover with a whiplash race to the end of our heroes’ journey.

The Review

This is a compelling and thought-provoking final chapter in this epic fantasy series. The author does an incredible job of layering the story with imagery and tone that reflects an almost biblical atmosphere while still delivering epic world-building and fantasy elements to keep readers enthralled. The exploration of both the good and negative aspects of blind faith and the classic theme of good versus evil throughout this series pays off spectacularly in this book.

The heart, as always, rests in this novel’s fantastic world-building, mythos, and character development. The various levels of magic power each creature has and the small band of heroes brave enough to face the challenges a powerhouse like Taariq presents to the world represent the power of light over darkness perfectly. The emotional bonds each of the heroes had with one another in their quest made the story more engaging.

The Verdict

Thrilling, entertaining, and memorable, author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s End” is a must-read fantasy novel and a great send-off to this series. The twists and turns that come their way and the climactic final battle (and amazing emotional payoffs) will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today or grab your copy on October 22nd, 2024!

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.

https://zacharyhagenwrites.com