Finding Destiny by Aliyah Hastings Review

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

A young woman searching for answers discovers a darker truth than she could have imagined in the book “Finding Destiny” by Aliyah Hastings.

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The Synopsis

The truth is hidden in plain sight, and the answers will cost her everything.

Tara has spent her life chasing the truth, the mystery of her father’s death, and the secrets buried with him. But when she is torn from her quiet existence and thrust into the heart of Velmora, a city consumed by a malevolent presence, she stumbles into something ancient.

What she thought was a simple pursuit of truth was only the beginning. Each revelation unveils a deeper layer of deceit. And when a sacred ceremony ends in bloodshed, Tara is forced to flee. But running is not enough. The Queen is rising, and her influence is rapidly expanding; even the heavens aren’t safe.

The world is teetering on the brink. What’s she going to do?

The Review

This was a compelling and richly developed new fantasy-driven narrative. The author did an incredible job of world-building, crafting islands that felt both realistic and relatable, and creating a world that was deeply complex in both politics and religion, much like our own world. The suspense and atmosphere that came to life on the page, especially when confronted with the revelations behind the protagonist’s father’s death, kept me, as a reader, on the edge of my seat.

The connected themes and rich character development were what kept me invested in this story. The concept of loss and grief, as well as the idea behind faith and its profound impact on individuals who become deeply devoted to it, is well-represented in this story, particularly in the exploration of the relationship between Tara and her mother. The duality of Tara’s backstory and her parents’ relationship was a significant draw for readers who connected with Tara as a protagonist as well.

The Verdict

Fast-paced, entertaining, and thrilling, author Aliyah Hastings’s “Finding Destiny” is a great and powerful fantasy-driven narrative and a must-read book. The twists and turns in the story, the cliffhanger ending, and the emotional gut-punch that the protagonist must endure make this a compelling novel that deserves a sequel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Aliyah, an author, driven by a passion for sharing the wisdom of my personal story through the art of storytelling. Whether it’s crafting characters in a captivating fantasy novel or narrating real-life experiences in non-fiction, writing has become my refuge, a source of healing, and a means of offering comfort to others.

A devoted anime enthusiast since my childhood, I find immense joy in exploring the fantastical realms of imagination. It is within these realms that I let my creativity roam free, giving birth to vibrant characters and immersive worlds.

Yet, my writing journey doesn’t end with fantasy alone. In my non-fiction narratives, I blend my personal narrative with the influence of biblical wisdom. These stories carry a deep healing quality, providing solace and a sense of comfort to those who delve into their pages. My aim is to ensure that each reader feels seen, heard, and edified by the stories I share.

Welcome to my world where the power of words knows no bounds.

youtube.com/niichebunz

Instagram: @niichebunz

The Way of Stones (The Red Kingdom Book Two) by Ryan Lanz Review

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

In the aftermath of a failed attack, a group of rebels must regroup while dealing with a traitor in their midst, while a former hunter of the Corrupted struggles with becoming one of them, and the mission he has been given as well in author Ryan Lanz’s “The Way of Stones”, the second book in the Red Kingdom series.

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The Synopsis

In a changing world, old loyalties might not survive.

The attack on Abalreen has failed. Phessipi’s band of rebels have regrouped in the forest, but she’s missing some of her key people. She’s finding it hard to move forward and even harder to come up with a new plan, especially now that The Order has its sights set on revenge.

Levas just wants things back the way they were, before the Corrupted attacked Abalreen, damaging his city and The Order’s trust in him at the same time. He used to be Lord Commander of the army, but now, he’s on the run, desperate to get back home.

Rhael is still coming to grips with having an ability, something that could get him arrested or killed. He knows how this works—he used to hunt Corrupted before becoming one of them. So when the most powerful man in Abalreen gives him a mission, he knows he needs to pay attention…even if it means betraying others like him.

The fight for survival always leaves casualties behind.

The Review

As with the first book in the series, this novel did an incredible job of world-building, not only with the world readers were introduced to in the first book, but also with the new faces and places that readers became acquainted with in this novel. The slow, methodical pacing allowed the author to draw the reader into this narrative, and the rich dynamic between the political nature behind the divisiveness of this kingdom, the power moves those in power make, and the fantasy mythos the world embraces wholeheartedly, made this narrative shine.

The standout moments of this novel came in the character development that transpired throughout this narrative. Readers get multiple perspectives throughout this book from characters like Rhael and his allies as they struggle in the aftermath of such a brutal battle. He remains conflicted about his new reality, and Phessipi’s struggles in the wake of such a monumental loss, the author did a masterful job of reconnecting readers with the characters of this series. Yet it also served to introduce new perspectives and engage with new readers, such as the introduction of Jaheim’s story and how his perspective introduced the theme of loss, hidden secrets, and how war impacts those caught in the crosshairs. 

The Verdict

Memorable, heart-pounding, and entertaining, author Ryan Lanz’s “The Way of Stones” is a great way to delve back into the Red Kingdom series and a must-read fantasy story. The twists and turns that come and the rich mythos this unique fantasy world builds upon will keep readers thrilled and eager for the next entry in the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ryan Lanz was born and raised in Hawaii, but now lives in the continental United States.

When traveling the world with a theater production and music education company, he was exposed to a broad range of people, culture, stories, and experiences.

Now he spends his time writing fantasy books, usually with his pet parrot supervising.

The Prince of Ileria by Daniel N Fite Review

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

In author Daniel N. Fite’s ” The Prince of Ileria, ” a young man searching for the parents taken from him as a child must find answers and navigate the drama of high school while participating in a new RPG fantasy world. 

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The Synopsis

Nate Daniels is on a quest to find his parents, taken from him when he was only four years old. Now a high school senior, armed only with his snark and an unshakable belief that his parents are still alive, Nate enters the final phase of his lifelong quest.

Soon, however, a former teacher introduces him to the fantasy realm of Ileria—an amazingly realistic RPG sim unlike any he’s played before. Could Ileria hold the key to his search or is it merely a fun side-quest? Nate must find new friends and forge new relationships as he navigates high school drama, a prickly adoptive brother, and an ever-changing relationship with his bestie, Jan. Oh, and let’s not forget the 400-pound telepathic Ilerian murder-cat who just might help him piece it all together—if she doesn’t eviscerate him first.

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging read. The story really speaks to the RPG, video game, and fantasy crowd in a profound and thrilling way, delving into a unique blend of action and mystery infused into this fantasy world setting. The world-building for this narrative was top-notch, not only giving readers a full experience of high school life but also delving into this exciting new world of magic and wonder. 

The character development became the heart of this narrative, especially Nate’s story and evolution. His love and passion for RPGs and how that translated into his journey to become a hero in this fantasy world, as well as his drive to find his parents and the relationships he developed with his best friend Jan and his sort of brother Thomas, kept the reader invested in his story.

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The Verdict

A blend of Jumanji meets Stranger Things meets Free Guy with a deep fantasy twist, author Daniel Fite’s “The Prince of Ileria” is a must-read fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new series. The twists and turns in the narrative, the rich mythology and world-building, and the thoughtful approach to character arcs will have fans eager for more of this upcoming narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on May 16th, 2024, or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Cursed Mage (Catenarian Chronicles Book 1) by TC Marti Review

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

A young woman discovers her powers and lineage just as she discovers she has a long-lost sister who is in danger from a ruthless regime in author TC Marti’s “Cursed Mage,” the first book in the Catenarian Chronicles Series.

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The Synopsis

Every family has secrets. Hers are trying to kill her.

Kaija can’t wait to dive into university and leave the wreckage of her past behind. But becoming an orphan and moving in with her weird rich uncle wasn’t on the cards. Neither was discovering she’s a mythical Mage—and something rarer that the unscrupulous ruling party would kill to possess.

Now she’s dredging up long-buried family secrets, chatting with drowned ghosts, and dodging elite assassins and a ruthless mercenary Mage. All while learning to control magic so she can rescue the sister she didn’t know she had from the clutches of an oppressive political regime.

If Kaija fails, she and her sister won’t just lose their freedom, they’ll lose their lives… or worse. And the nation will pay the price.

Cursed Mage is the pulse-pounding first book in the Catenarian Chronicles. If you love chosen one dark paranormal fantasies packed with political intrigue, high-stakes action, and unforgettable characters, hang on for the ride of your life. Start reading today!

Flea and Tick

The Review

What a remarkable and exciting start to a brand-new metaphysical fantasy series! The world-building and mythos the author establishes between the Mages and the magic system itself are fantastic and well-established on the page. The balance of action with character growth and story development made this feel like a gripping and well-defined world to get lost in. The compelling world the author creates gives the reader a sense of familiarity while also transporting them into a world filled with magic and wonder. The thoughtful approach to the imagery used in the author’s writing style helped simultaneously elevate this setting and cement the mythos.

The heart of this story rests in the development of the protagonist and her journey. Kaija was both relatable and engaging as a character, bringing the same sense of wonder and awe that the reader felt discovering this hidden world and the power that rests in the hands of the Mages, all while layering the story with elements of mystery with her discovery of her sister and the intrigue that comes with the introduction of a potential boyfriend, with a supernatural twist. The story and the mythology the author establishes help elevate Kaija’s journey to an entirely new level.

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The Verdict

An intense, heartfelt, and powerful dark fantasy novel that readers won’t be able to put down, author TC Marti’s “Cursed Mage” is a must-read thrill ride. The heart and emotional story behind Kaija and her evolution throughout the narrative, the well-rounded supporting cast, and the blend of action with magical suspense made the author’s world feel alive and vibrant on the page. The twists and turns that the protagonist and her story go through and the epic world-building the author deploys make this feel like a concrete, engaging world that readers won’t stop getting lost in 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

TC Marti is an avid workout warrior and author of the dystopian fantasy shared universe, the Renegades Epic. After spending years devouring the works of J.K. Rowling, George Lucas, and some of the greatest libertarian thinkers in world history, Marti has fused his imagination with free market principles whenever he metaphorically puts pen to paper.

The Silver Crystal (The Red Kingdom Book 1) by Ryan Lanz Review

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

A bounty hunter brought in to help stop rebel factions outside of a kingdom soon discovers that everything he thought he knew is not as it seems in author Ryan Lanz’s The Silver Crystal, the first in the Red Kingdom series.

The Synopsis

A wise man once said that true victory is bloodless. That man was wrong.

The Red Kingdom is divided. Bounty hunter Rhael is brought in to subdue the rebels outside the city, except they aren’t normal rabble. These Corrupted have unnatural abilities too powerful for the rest of society—something Rhael learned firsthand when they killed his father years ago.

But this mission is different, and Rhael is quickly confronted by everything he once knew, and he discovers he has more of the enemy in him than he thought possible.

One day is all it takes to break a belief.

One day is all it takes to break a city.

One day is all it takes to break a man.

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The Review

This was a powerful and memorable read. The incredible world-building that went into this story, as well as the mythology behind the outcasts of this kingdom and the ways people become “corrupted” in their society. The imagery and the depth of detail the author pours into this narrative and the rich history that the narrative unfolds both for this world and the protagonist speak to a depth of passion for this genre that fans will immediately connect with.

The action and intrigue perfectly elevate protagonist Rhael’s character growth, and the themes that the narrative plays on speak to a profound social calling that people don’t always consider. The twists that put the protagonist in the role of a social outcast and show how those often marked as outcasts by society are hunted or persecuted made the action and fantasy elements feel more grounded and engaging overall as the story progressed. 

The Verdict

Harrowing, entertaining, and epic in every sense of the word, author Ryan Lanz’s “The Silver Crystal” is a perfect start to this grand fantasy series. The shocking moments this story takes and the complexity of these characters and this world will draw the reader further in, eager to see where the rest of the series takes them. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ryan Lanz was born and raised on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. He spent five years with a music touring group, traveling to a dozen countries on three continents. Now living in the Midwest, he enjoys writing novels and entertaining his macaw parrot.

The Poet and the Magician by Jennifer Renson Review

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

A young poet is drawn to a charismatic magician in a world of danger and secrets as their fates become intertwined in author Jennifer Renson’s “The Poet and the Magician.”

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The Synopsis

Like a bird trapped within a cage, Fawn yearns for freedom. But the journey since her harrowing escape veers in a direction she could never have foreseen. She meets an enigmatic stranger, Taikuri, whose eyes conceal secrets as deep as his charm is irresistible.

What begins as a chance encounter draws them into a world of crumbling kingdoms and breathtaking landscapes. Will their bond, both exhilarating and dangerous, lead to something more? Fawn isn’t the only one running from her past. As their relationship deepens, could their plights unite poet and magician or destroy the fragile connection they’ve built? When Fawn questions the cost of such secrets, she must ask herself: is she trading one birdcage for another?

The Review

The author’s world-building in this novel was incredible. The tension and gritty nature of the world the protagonist inhabits make the high-stakes nature of the narrative feel alive on the page. The imagery in the author’s writing made this kingdom and the territories the characters travel through feel vibrant and engaging. 

At its core, however, this novel is a story of fate, destiny, and our connections with others. The protagonists of this novel, Fawn and Taikuri, feel an instant bond as if drawn together by some unknown forces. The mystery and intrigue that both of their pasts hold and the almost Shakespearean nature of their journey delve into the rich history of this kingdom with ease. 

The Verdict

Memorable, enthralling, and beautifully written author Jennifer Renson’s “The Poet and the Magician” is a must-read fantasy novel. The twists and turns this narrative takes, as well as the emotional pull of the protagonists and their bond, help elevate the grand mythos and world-building that this author has become known for throughout their previous books and leave readers eager for more. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Writing has been my passion since childhood. Now I am able to take my passion and turn it into a career.

My writing career has spanned from articles in Lost Treasure Magazine to Fansided’s Show Snob. Presently I am a mother and wife and enjoy spending time with family, friends, writing, crafting, and reveling in Victorian Era ambiances while living in New Jersey.

Instagram: @jenny.renson

Twitter: @JennyRenson

Facebook: Books and Poetry by Jennifer Renson

New Trails (New Trails Book 1) by Jody Norman Review

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

A man without purpose or direction finds himself transported to another world and must rely on the help of a local energy worker and guardian to escape the clutches of a dark guardian in author Jody Norman’s “New Trails,” the first in the New Trails series.

The Synopsis

Trapped in a life without purpose or escape, Troy is suddenly thrust into a different world, one of mystery and magic, where he must learn to trust — in his companion Kieran, and in himself and his own learning as he navigates this strange and wondrous place.

Kieran, a stubbornly independent Guardian and energy worker in this new world, makes his own way until Troy crashes into his life, bringing change like a hot desert wind. The young men must grow together, slowly recognizing the bond of mind and soul that lies between them, one with the potential to make something greater of them both, if they have the courage to accept it.

Together they must face Aodhan, the Dark R’Guardian who wants to enslave Troy, using the outworlder’s very soul to destroy Aodhan’s own world in the name of saving it. And Kieran, junior to Aodhan, is the only one who can stand between them.

Will either of them take the journey they’re called to, or survive it if they do?

Finalist in the New Mexico-Arizona Book Award and the Page Turner Award

The Review

What a breathtaking and compelling read! The author created an incredible world with this larger-than-life fantasy-driven narrative while injecting a healthy dose of realism into the character development. The author’s imagery throughout the book brings a sense of magic and wonder to the setting, similar to how this reader felt the first time they watched Return of the Jedi and saw the heroes walking through the forest moon of Endor. It evoked a sense of magic yet ancient and familiar territory as if you could walk right into it.

The themes that the author brought to life in this narrative were powerful and engaged with the reader. The sense of identity and purpose that the story played with, both with Troy and Kieran, as well as the sense of identity that came from their growing bond and the use of energy and nature itself to enforce that bond, was so thought-provoking. The use of synchronicity, energy work, and how it plays into the way the world works not only elevates the story but also allows the reader to connect with this world more fully. 

The Verdict

Memorable, authentic, and entertaining author Jody Norman’s “New Trails” is a must-read fantasy novel. The main protagonist’s realism, origins, and the real dilemmas he faces throughout this fantasy journey add more depth to the shocking twists and turns the narrative takes, especially the shocking cliffhanger finale. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

I’m an award-winning author who loves thresholds, and portals, and passing through them.  Places where you’re not quite here and not quite there.  Or in other words, liminal spaces.  To me, this is where potential and opportunity wait for the unwary passersby, and I really enjoy placing my characters in these places and seeing them revealed for who they truly are and can be.

Nature and myself have an intimate relationship, and it’s key to all my writing, running through my novels like the fractal veins of a watershed.  And since I believe that nature includes our place in the universe, astronomy and quantum physics and cosmology inform the structure of my fantasy worlds.

I’ve taught English to high-schoolers, citizenship to immigrants, sustainability to college students.  I fell in love with cities and all that they could be in my masters degree in city and regional planning, and I’ve written articles for publications as varied as Dog Fancy and Colorado Gardener and Graduating Engineer and Computer Careers.

I have an almost forty-year love relationship with my same sex partner, and together we’ve moved in eight-year cycles from Tucson, Arizona, to Boulder and Denver, Colorado, to Atlanta, Georgia, and finally to Silver City, New Mexico.  We’re looking at various places for our next stop. I really want to know what it’s like to be a world citizen, so maybe somewhere out of the US!

Please check out my book at Goodreads, my Bookbubs Author page, and sign up for my newsletter to hear how the sequel (Hidden Trails) is progressing!  And keep an eye on my blog, which addresses the issues we all face as our civilization moves forward.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551887456347

https://books2read.com/new-trails

The Old Child: Tome 3 (The Lost Art of Magic Book 3) by Jonni Jordyn Review

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

A world that magic has returned to sees a struggle for power as the witch clan seeks to prevents the sorcerers from ruling over the world in author Jonni Jordyn’s “The Old Child: Tome 3”, the third book in the Lost Art of Magic series.

The Synopsis

Destiny prevented the sorcerer clan from claiming power, but her survival from the battle is in question. Who will step up to lead the family? The Old Child is the third book in the Lost Art of Magic series. Magic has returned after remaining dormant for centuries and this means there will be those that covet power over the powerless. The witch clan must do something to prevent the sorcerers from claiming the world, but must they do it without the strongest of them?

The Review

From the very first page, this book is written so cinematic that the reader is immediately transported to the aftermath of the epic battle between Honey and Destiny at the end of book two. The shock and awe of the situation, from the way the world watched as two influential magic users waged a war that the entirety of the US Military could not touch with their firepower and the destruction left in their wake, both property and lives, was felt throughout the novel as events unfolded. The imagery and atmosphere the book conjured in the reader’s minds delivered a powerful setting and tone that stayed with readers throughout the book.

The character development and growing mythos the author was able to develop will instantly jump out to readers. The tension that arises when the fate of protagonist Destiny comes into play and how characters like Ashlin stepped up in her place kept the readers invested in the story as it unraveled. The way magic and its impact on the modern world was explored, and the divide between Honey and her sorcerers and the witch clan was so palpable that it left the reader eager to see where the story takes off next.

The Verdict

Action-packed, thrilling, and entertaining author Jonni Jordyn’s “The Old Child” is a must-read fantasy action novel and a grand entry into The Lost Art of Magic series. The twists and turns that this story takes readers to, including exploring how those we love who are no longer with us can sometimes return to us in surprising ways, will leave fans on the edge of their seats and dying for the next entry in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today or grab your copy on December 6th, 2024!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Jonni Jordyn, an American author born in Oakland, Ca, started out playing music at age two, and moved on to singing and acting in grade school. High School introduced writing and film making followed by drawing and photography in college. In other words, she had a VERY LIBERAL arts education.

Jonni published some poetry and some india ink drawings in literary magazines while in college, won critical acclaim for her acting in a cabaret theater, but was faced with a decision to pick out the arts she wanted to pursue.

Of all the available opportunities, music and song writing won the first round when she found herself performing with legendary stars of the sixties and seventies.

Round two began years later, after leaving California for Arizona. It all started with a blank piece of paper and the question, “how can I possibly write more than eleven thousand words for a single story?” A valid question which was followed up a year later with, “How did I ever write 160,000 words?”

Now, the writing comes much easier, but still there are questions like, “How will I ever get all these ideas written down?” followed closely by, “How many times can I edit the same book?”

Jonni currently lives in Colorado with her bird.

Kindred of the Unseen: The New Temple by Micah Beardsley Review

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

A group of individuals are called to find what is unseen in author Micah Beardsley’s “Kindred of the Unseen: The New Temple”.

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The Synopsis

Which is real and which is shadow? The unseen has webs that draw and realms that open to those who will knock . . .

At the start of the fourth age of mankind, the Kindred of the Unseen are being called to awaken to discover the worlds and realities that exist beyond their five senses.

Four travelling musicians in pursuit of new adventures; new stories and new sounds for their songs, never imagine they would be invited to discover the nature and power of sounds born of the unseen . . .

Prince Léyondir faces a crossroads; down one path is the life he planned for himself, on the other is a mysterious summons, an invitation to a path shrouded in ambiguity . . .

Beldrien, a sorcerer-hunter, serves as the chief spiritual advisor and right hand to a king but there is more to hunting darkness than he has learned in his years of spiritual study . . .

And in the far east wilderness of Auburntungle, an unassuming hunter dreams of a greater destiny than the life which he presently knows. Are they dreams or something else . . .

A fantasy novel by acclaimed author Micah Beardsley. Beware! It will leave you spellbound and may draw you to the unseen yourself.

The Review

What an engaging and marvelous read! The author immediately distinguishes their narrative, playing with spirituality and destiny through the introduction pages with the Council of Thunders and the Lords of Light that come forth when this fourth age arrives. The world-building and mythos that come to life on the page instantly draw the reader in and keep the narrative flowing at a great rate. 

The balance of action and storytelling with fantastic character arcs was outstanding to see come to life on the page. The ideas and themes the author introduces, from finding spirituality amongst the epic tales and legends of fantasy storytelling to the concept of music having its kind of power and so much more, allowed the reader to feel more connected to this fictional world and the narrative itself. 

The Verdict

Memorable, thought-provoking, and entertaining author Micah Beardsley’s “Kindred of the Unseen: The New Temple” is a must-read fantasy novel with a spiritual twist. With the compelling character dynamics at play here, the multiple points of view the story is told from, and the immersive mythology, the author has created a thrilling tale that readers will instantly fall in love with. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

The reality of the supernatural has been evident throughout my life.

Through a passion for music and sound, I have discovered and explored unseen mysteries – the realms of spirit my training ground as I continue to grow and learn of even greater realities.

In writing this book, I have explored these realms in a new way, using fantasy to push the limits of what I believe to be reality – this genre is the perfect environment to expand that foundation.

I desire to bring others along for the ride, that together, we would journey the unseen realms, and discover more about the dimensions we cannot see, and ourselves, in the process.

https://www.micahbeardsley.com