I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young warrior discovers a hidden yet frightful gift for magic, and must find a way to stop a powerful necromancer and prevent either one of them from triggering a firestorm that could decimate the city he calls his adopted home in author Susan Ann Walker’s “The Sorcerer and the Necromancer”, the third book in the “Tales from the City of Magic” series .
Advertisements
The Synopsis
A young swordsman with a threatening secret. A rogue mage with a forbidden power. When they do battle, will the city survive?
Daric came to ignore the slur of being called “blank.” Growing up without magic of his own in a remote enclave of wizards, he left as soon as he could to make his way with his sword and his wits. Then the seventeen-year-old bodyguard accidentally discovers he has a hidden Gift for sorcery, enabling him to drain mystical energy from others, and he is terrified that his suddenly-appearing talent places everyone around him in deadly peril.
Determined to master his new abilities, Daric finds a mentor to guide him and friends who support him, even though many fear him and demand his exile. But while he trains, a necromancer is killing elderly merchants and animating their corpses to rob them; and seers are dreaming of a devastating firestorm soon to come. As rumors swirl and panic mounts, the fledgling sorcerer realizes he may be the key to saving the place that’s become his adopted home—or the cause of its destruction.
Can Daric wield his dangerous skills to stop a madman from burning everything and everyone around him to ashes? Or will he lose control, and bring about the very disaster he is desperate to prevent?
The Sorcerer and the Necromancer is the third book in the “Tales from the City of Magic” sword and sorcery series. It can be read on its own, although there are some continuing characters from earlier books. If you enjoy stories of hidden powers, dark prophecies and found families, then you’ll love Susan Ann Walker’s exciting fantasy adventure.
Get The Sorcerer and the Necromancer to return to the City of Magic today!
The Review
Immediately, I was struck by the incredible world and character-building the author put into this story. As a fan of the show Heroes, I instantly thought of Peter Petreli and Sylar from the show when it came to the book’s antagonist and protagonist. Each sought to be someone special but took very different paths, and even the hero struggled with whether they were this story’s true villains. The emotional aspect of their journeys and the attention to detail that the author gave to each of them as their stories progressed allowed the reader to get lost in this narrative in the best way possible.
The mythology and the world itself were the shining stars of this narrative. Whether you are a newcomer to the series or a longtime fan, the author’s development of Torrenbeck, the city of magic, was engaging for a reader to dive into. The imagery in the author’s writing style allowed this city and the world around it to breathe and live on the page, which only served to elevate the magical system and the magical creatures that roamed this realm and made the entire world feel tangible and within reach to the reader.
The Verdict
Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Susan Ann Walker’s “The Sorcerer and the Necromancer” is a must-read fantasy novel. The twists and turns in the story, along with the climactic final battle between the hero and villain, not only do an incredible job of wrapping up this particular story but also build enough mythos to return to these characters and the world itself in the future, a bonus for fans of this growing series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
Advertisements
About the Author
Susan Ann Walker began writing professionally after retiring from her first career as an aerospace IT architect.
Susan’s novels are informed by her life as an admitted serial hobbyist. A former equestrian and martial artist, she knows first-hand how to ride a horse, throw a punch, and wield a katana. She has not yet managed to work database design or Lego set construction into a medieval fantasy, but she’s still trying.
Susan lives in Southern California with her husband and a variable number of fur persons.
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.
Advertisements
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
Advertisements
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.
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”.
Advertisements
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.
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
Advertisements
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.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young warrior must face an interdimensional threat coming for her people in author Thomas More’s “City in My Hands”, the second book in the Mannahatta series.
Advertisements
The Synopsis
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey through the captivating Mannahatta series, as acclaimed author Thomas More introduces the spellbinding second installment — City In My Hands.
In the heart of Mannahatta, a remarkable heroine emerges. Sakima Tamanend is no ordinary hero; she is a force of nature, empowered by the ancient spirits of the Lenape. Sakima’s awe-inspiring legacy and unwavering strength make her a fierce warrior, inspiring a new generation of young girls to embrace their ancestral power.
Yet, darkness looms over the city as an insidious interdimensional threat descends upon her people. Sakima must rise to new heights of strength and courage as her world crumbles under a relentless assault.
Can she overcome the evil forces and monstrous creatures that threaten everything she holds dear? Will she succumb to her adversaries or emerge as an unstoppable force? The answer lies within the shadows, waiting to be discovered.
Thomas More weaves a tale that captivates, immersing you in a whirlwind of excitement. City In My Hands delves deep into themes of power, morality, and the complexities of transcending humanity. Blending ancient mysticism with futuristic combat, this dark yet redemptive story will keep you enthralled until the very last page.
The Review
What a compelling and richly developed novel. The author perfectly brought the Lenape culture into the fantasy and sci-fi genres, capturing the diverse culture and blending it with the rich mythology the author has developed since the first book. The shock of the new villain’s arrival and the brutality her people face at these invaders’ hands intensify the narrative’s action and fast pacing, keeping readers engaged immediately.
The author’s themes in this book are how people’s culture and heritage can blend with modern times and technology, how other cultures view one another, and how not every journey we undertake is filled with win after win. Still, sometimes, through loss, we learn to grow. How these invaders view the Lenape people and treat them mirrors the unjust treatment of Native American and Indigenous people all over the world by conquerors and invaders, which elevates the action and the heavy fantasy elements of the narrative significantly.
The Verdict
Adrenaline-fueled, haunting, and thought-provoking author Thomas More’s “Cit in My Hands” is a must-read sci-fi and fantasy thriller. The twists and turns and the shocking cliffhanger finale will make readers eager for the next chapter in the Mannahatta series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
Advertisements
About the Author
Thomas More has always been fascinated by Native American culture. As he immersed himself in thoroughly researching the Indigenous people of North America, he discovered that there were very few sci-fi novels featuring people of these cultures as protagonists, and none at all about the original inhabitants of the island of Manhattan. Thus, the idea for the Mannahatta Series was born. Thomas More’s favorite genre is science fiction, followed closely by fantasy. He has read hundreds of sci-fi novels and short stories and has spent hours and hours watching movies and television shows in this genre.
He holds an advanced degree in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing. Although college-educated in the art, craft, and labor of writing novels, he is self-taught when it comes to science fiction and its associated tropes, its readers, and the best of its writers. His favorite pastime is going for long motorcycle rides on city streets, country roads, and beaches (where allowed, of course!).
Sample chapters and short stories from his first book are available on the thomasmorewriter site — and you can also search there for information about Native American culture and causes, in addition to a Lenape glossary and the Mannahatta soundtrack.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A powerful wizard must complete a monumental spell that could cost him his life in author Russell Pike’s “Journey of Seven Circles”.
Advertisements
The Synopsis
In a world chained by ancient lies, one man holds the key to its salvation — at the cost of his own life.
Kryn Darien, a wizard of unparalleled ability, stands poised to unleash a spell of unimaginable magnitude, a desperate gambit to reshape the very fabric of existence. Centuries of preparation have honed his skills and forged tools of devastating arcane might. Yet, as the moment approaches, doubt gnaws at him.
Will his sacrifices, his relentless pursuit of power, prove futile in the face of such overwhelming odds?
Once a humble priest, Kryn never sought such profound responsibility. His aspirations were simple — to serve and protect those he held dear. But fate thrusts him into a maelstrom of war, treachery, and ancient mysteries that challenge his resolve. Every step forward demands a toll more exorbitant than he ever imagined.
Across treacherous battlefields and against foes wielding deadly magic, Kryn’s journey unveils a conspiracy older than memory itself.
Amidst adversaries wielding godlike powers, he must navigate a labyrinth of impossible choices.
Yet, his unwavering commitment to aid the helpless propels him ever forward, even as the cost escalates to encompass all he holds dear.
The Review
The author did such an incredible job of world-building in this narrative. From the book’s first chapter, readers are already immersed in this story of intrigue and magic, giving readers a glimpse at the road the protagonist will travel. The world itself was very well developed, as readers were treated to a narrative perfectly laced with imagery in the author’s writing to bring these pivotal moments and this fantastic world to life.
The protagonist’s evolution throughout the many centuries of his life and the physical and emotional toll that his experiences take on him is something the reader feels greatly throughout this novel. The scale of the story captures the essence of a great epic fantasy, and the bond and emotional connection with Kryn’s brother Adro or the line of morality and philosophy that separates Kryn from the Seraphs and Andromia all showcase the tension and conflict that drives Kryn towards his ultimate destiny.
The Verdict
Fantastic, heartfelt, and entertaining author Russell Pike’s “Journey of Seven Circles” is a must-read epic fantasy novel. The protagonist’s emotional and grandiose journey leaves the reader enthralled and moved by the scale and world-building the author poured into this narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
Advertisements
About the Author
A child of the eighties, my mother gave me a copy of Robert Jordan’s Eye of the World when I was twelve, thereby introducing me to the world of epic fantasy and dooming me to countless sublime hours sojourning in worlds other than my own.
Since that first fateful day I’ve also read Anne McCaffrey, Tad Williams, Brandon Sanderson, Jim Butcher, Steven Erikson, Frank Herbert, David Farland, and more. The trouble was, I loved reading so much I decided to try my hand at writing as well.
That in and of itself wasn’t a problem, at least not until I got hooked. I realized just how dire my situation was one fall evening when my family invited me over to watch a movie. Truth be told, I can’t even recall what the movie was, only that I didn’t especially like it. However, I distinctly remember an annoyed feeling as the credits rolled, not because I hadn’t liked the film, but because I could have edited half a chapter in the time I’d wasted.
That was, perhaps, one of the most chilling moments of my life, as I realized just how deep I’d been bitten by the writing bug. But there was nothing for it but to press on. So I set to work.
Over the next ten years, I gave up on TV, movies, and all too often sleep, wringing every hour of writing I could from my schedule. During that time, it was my pleasure to meet a host of fantastic writers, editors, and artists, including David Farland, whom it was my great privilege to work with. Of course, I’d be remiss not to thank my family, who were ever supportive while I climbed this peak.
When I’m not writing, I love a good camping hike (so long as there’s enough trees to hang my hammock). I also volunteer as a sled dog handler, and I have a long standing love affair with fast cars and lonely mountain roads.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
When the new home Elior and his allies find themselves in is under threat, they must determine who is a friend and who is their enemy in author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s Refuge”, the third book in the Eternal Chronicles series.
Advertisements
The Synopsis
Blindness isn’t the only thing that keeps you from seeing.
Elior and his friends have been through a lot together. They journeyed through trials with Michael to reach the Well of Eternity and drink from it. They gained new powers and went through the Mirror of Eternity to the other side of the world to rescue Elior’s brother from a dragon and restored light to Nox Terra in the process. Now they’ve returned to Lux Terra, but the adventure is far from over.
When an ominous warning finds them in Gabrielle’s beach house, they have no choice but to join Michael’s followers in the underground, Eternity’s Refuge. They are welcomed with open arms and the promise of a place to belong away from a world gone mad. But when they find out that Taariq’s right hand man, Iblis, has infiltrated Eternity’s Refuge in every major city, they have to find a way to protect their new friends and their new home from the inside.
Now they must determine who their friends are and who their enemies are, and almost nothing is as it seems. Will Taariq and his minions be successful in bringing Eternity’s Refuge down from the inside? Or will Elior, Opal, Nyx, and Nereza be able to stop him and bring even more people to the cause?
Eternity’s Refuge is the thrilling continuation of the Eternal Chronicles series following Eternity’s Mirror. The magic leaping off the page and deepening the mystery will hook you from cover to cover and leave you breathless.
The Review
The world-building continues to amaze in this third entry in the Eternal Chronicles. The author infuses a great deal of intrigue and mystery into the story, as the question of loyalties and who the protagonists can trust is tested. The imagery and use of magical and mythical world-building allow the reader to feel transported into the story.
What made this story shine was the robust character development in this story. The protagonist, Elior, is tested in this book, exploring his call to lead their people and how to rise above the hardships and struggles their journey has thrown in their path. The story of redemption some characters take, especially one who has been on the wrong side of the battle thus far, draws the reader into the story and keeps them emotionally invested as the losses pile on in this story.
The Verdict
Adventurous, thrilling, and entertaining author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternity’s Refuge” is a must-read fantasy-driven narrative. The shocking twists in this story and the emotional ending will keep readers on the edge of their seats and eager to get the next book in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
Advertisements
About the Author
Zachary Hagen is a fantasy author and editor. He lives his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn’t busy writing his next book or teaching, you can often find him walking around his neighbor hood or up hiking in Hanging Rock Park with his wife and their friends.
From a young age he was enthralled with the world of story. From the stories his parents read to him from his blue bedtime story books (if you know, you know) to the first two series that he read, The Chronicles of Narnia and A Series of Unfortunate Events, Zachary’s tastes continued to develop throughout his years of reading.
The influences for his first series, The Eternal Chronicles, include Christopher Paolini, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A rebellious cleric must face his past as he is forced to confront the cult he escaped from two years earlier in authors Dorian & Talia Ravenwood’s “Thread of Souls Book V: The Deep Hollows”.
Advertisements
The Synopsis
In the fifth installment of this gripping series, rebellious cleric Taliesin is captured by a ruthless bounty hunter and forced back to the cult he escaped two years ago. Now serving a new goddess, he’s deemed a heretic among his people.
Stripped of his allies and separated from his beloved, Taliesin’s survival hinges on his wits and magic. His destination: the heart of the cult, the underground city of Berenzia. Here, secrets lurk that could unravel the cult’s plans. But to uncover them, Taliesin must confront not only the expectations of the disappointed family he left behind, but also the sinister ruling priestesses. If Taliesin cannot overcome the ghosts of his past, he will never escape the cult’s clutches.
In the Thread of Souls “Spider Octology”, ten adventurers are caught in a web of deadly secrets, warring cults, and untrusting alliances when they meet a cult runaway seeking freedom. They must overcome their differences in order to stop a god’s release from an abyssal prison.
Thread of Souls is an award-winning eight-book epic fantasy series. These stories weave a world of deep history, cultures, and lore with a fascinating pantheon of good and evil gods. Adventure across the vast world of Corventos while diving right into the heart and soul of a diverse and colorful cast of characters whose passions, strengths, and failures drive the story.
Thread of Souls is a must-read fantasy epic that blends swords and sorcery, dragons and mythical creatures, and fully realized locations that take your breath away. From the desert wastelands of the Expanse, down the twisting caverns of the Deep Hollows, through the beautiful streets of the lakeside capital city, and all the way to the icy tundra home of the Citadel.
The books in Thread of Souls’ “Spider Octology” currently include:
Book 1 – Phantom Five
Book 2 – Ash & Thunder
Book 3 – Path of the Spiders
Book 4 – Asunder
Book 5 – The Deep Hollows
Book 6 – Coming Soon!
And more to come!
The Review
The authors return to this epic fantasy series with a vengeance, expanding upon the vast world with a look into the complex cult from which one of the main protagonists hailed. Exploring the aftermath of the great dragon’s battle over the citadel, readers see Taliesin’s singular journey as war threatens the other realms of the land. The detail and depth of world-building the authors poured into this narrative, including expanding on Taliesin’s backstory and history in even greater detail, was a welcome return to this epic fantasy series.
The authors’ balance between expanding on the mythos of this world and action-driven storytelling was incredible to see come to life on the page. The vastness of this world and the imagery in their writing style allowed the author’s writing to bring readers into the narrative much like fantasy-driven role-playing games do, giving the reader a sense of voice and inclusion in the narrative as it develops around them.
The Verdict
Thoughtful, adrenaline-fueled, and entertaining authors Dorian and Talia Ravenwood’s “Thread of Souls Book V: The Deep Hollows” is a must-read epic fantasy novel and a great return to the Thread of Souls universe. The world-building layering, the engaging nature of the world and various cultures the authors developed across the different realms, and the shocking fates of some of these now classic characters will keep readers invested as the series progresses. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab the next entry of this amazing fantasy series today!
Rating: 10/10
Advertisements
About the Authors
Dorian is an executive producer and professional writer. His work is featured in tv shows, video games, in-print magazines, and websites. He’s also the co-founder and creative director for Game Sandwich. He can typically be found playing video games, but when he isn’t, he’s editing the books and loves playing with their two cats.
Talia is a professional writer for websites and video games, often on a freelance basis. She also is a professor teaching courses for a university focused on writing. When not writing for Thread of Souls, she loves drawing, interior decorating, and hiking.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young explorer with a shocking past and an immortal warrior must temper their growing attraction in the face of a growing threat in author Eden Robins’s “Gold: Heart of a Warrior”.
Advertisements
The Synopsis
It’s just gonna be one of those days…
Empathic healer and business owner, Dora Alexander decided to celebrate her 25th birthday by exploring the stalagmites and stalactites in Kartchner Caverns. Kinda nerdy? Maybe, but you do you, right? Things take a nasty turn when an earthquake rocks the cave, leaving her alone in complete darkness. Searching for a way out, she accidently awakens an immortal warrior who’s kind of cranky after his 100-year nap. Wouldn’t you be?
Philoctetes, one of Demeter’s immortal Gold warriors wakes up to the disturbing sound of a female sobbing. Thinking she’s one of the Silver demons he’s sworn to hunt down and destroy, he almost kills her before realizing she’s human. Correction. Turns out she’s not just human. She’s also the woman responsible for sending his kind to hell and causing woe and misery for the entire human race.
Dora never asked to be Pandora reborn. And she certainly didn’t ask to be paired up with an insanely hot immortal demon hunter on a mission to save the world and redeem them both. But The Fates seem to have their own quirky ideas. One of them being if she and said hot demon hunter consummate the inferno like attraction blazing between them, they’ll simply cease to exist, with any memory of their time on earth erased forever.
Oh goody, the day just got worse.
The Review
This was such an engaging and impressive blend of mythology and modern fantasy. The author masterfully brought the mindset and morality of the Ancient Greek gods and goddesses to life in the more modern-day setting of Arizona, with its blistering heat, technology, and desert environment. This allowed the reader to get lost in the rich atmosphere that was developed.
The narrative did a great job of bringing out those epic, destiny-fueled adventures to life on the page, and the action and dangers the villainous Silvers represented allowed the reader to feel the stakes of this story. Yet the dynamic between the two protagonists and their back-and-forth chemistry that evolved and grew over time brought the heart of this narrative to life. Their singular evolution throughout the narrative and how they embraced their journey was unique. Yet, the growth they shared and the romantic tension were an immediate draw into the story.
The Verdict
Author Eden Robins’s “Gold: Heart of a Warrior” is a heartfelt, compelling, and entertaining novel. The narrative’s twists and turns, the emotional pull of the protagonists’ shared goals, and the shocking cliffhanger will keep readers eager for more of this incredible story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Eden Robins believes in second chances. Eden’s journey as an author started in 2000 with the release of her first book, a time travel romance entitled, Never Until Tomorrow. Over the course of the next eleven years, Eden wrote and shared nine stories from her heart with her readers. After a divorce and big changes to her personal life, Eden’s writing came to a crashing halt and her path took a different direction.
Twelve years after her last romantic tale was published, Eden found a home for her latest novel, Gold: Heart of A Warrior with Champagne Book Group. A magical, modern-day romantic romp into Greek myths come to life, this story gave her a second chance to do what she loves. Write. Connect with Eden Robins and check out her blog, Living the Path.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’m a creatress at heart. Always have been. Creativity has been my companion and guide since I was little. I love to create through writing, gardening, cooking, crocheting, and playing piano. I’m an avid reader who loves to get lost in a great book. I also love to move my body, whether that’s through dance, or hiking or running or jumping or working out at the gym. Moving my body on a regular basis keeps me happy. What I eat matters a lot to me as well. I switched to a mostly whole food plant-based diet several years ago, and like how that makes me feel. I enjoy being outdoors, but also can spend a lot of time writing, reading, and daydreaming inside my home. My home is my sanctuary, my respite from the rest of the world. I often interact in group settings and like to be social, but I always need to balance that with alone time to decompress for a bit afterward. I can be, at times, very “hermit-like.”
I got into writing after I finished my first book. Seriously, that’s exactly how it happened. Growing up, I journaled, penned poetry, and wrote some articles for my high school newspaper, but I never pictured writing as a career path rather than a hobby until I finished my first novel. Both of my parents were in the medical/science field, and I was (and still am) fascinated by many aspects of science. The catalyst for my dive into writing was the death of my paternal grandfather. After he died, I had regrets about not spending more time with him. I kept wishing I could go back in time to get to know him better. I felt the urge to sit down and write about it, and that’s how my first book, a time travel romance entitled, Never Until Tomorrow, was born. It was as I typed the words “The End” that I knew I was hooked, and realized writing was something I wanted to take seriously for the rest of my life.
From that point forward, I was lucky enough to find publishers interested in my work and have had the privilege of sharing ten of my published novels with the world.
What inspired you to write your book?
Each book has its own inspiration. My current release, a modern-day romantic romp into Greek mythology entitled, Gold: Heart of A Warrior, was inspired by a children’s book on Greek myths I had bought for my kids. I read a lot to my children while they were growing up and was always looking for literature that would stimulate their minds and inspire their imagination. I picked up Usborne Illustrated Guide to Greek Myths and Legends by Cheryl Evans, and the complex and juicy lives of the characters in these myths caught not only my children’s attention, but mine as well. Particularly, reading about Pandora opening the Jug of Woes and releasing evil and misery into the world pulled at something inside of me. I felt like this was a woman who had been used by the Gods (Zeus) as a pawn, and then forever punished and maligned after she had done the deed she was manipulated to accomplish. I began thinking about how her story could go in a different direction. I started wondering what would happen if Pandora was offered a second chance at life. What would she do? How would she live? Who would she become if she were no longer a pawn of the Gods, or at least less of a pawn than before?
What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The path to empowerment is always through the self, and second chances are possible at any age.
What drew you into this particular genre?
Love and hope. Although romantic fiction isn’t the only genre I write (I also write mainstream fiction and nonfiction), that feeling of falling in love is so magical. I enjoy creating that for my readers. I also like writing stories that have a happily ever after that leaves the sweet taste of optimism in my readers’ mouths. Those two reasons keep me excited about writing in the romance genre.
What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
At this point, I’d have to say it’s Instagram. The reader community is very supportive, engaged, and interactive.
What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Just pick up the pen and write. It’s not about perfection or getting the grammar just right. There’s a magic in the process of simply putting your story on the page that can transform a writer’s thoughts into a masterpiece. As Michelangelo once said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” That blank page offers a writer the opportunity to unlock the story of their heart. Just start writing. The rest will come together.
What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
The future feels so bright. Especially in light of the past. After my initial foray into my writing journey, with nine of my novels getting published, I hit a wall. I got a divorce, and for more than a decade after, I just couldn’t write. I came to believe my creativity had dried up. I didn’t put a book out into the world during that time. It was a frightening period in my writing, but looking back, I know that “ten years of drought” taught me so much and provided an evolution and a deepening for me that I needed. I understand now that while I wasn’t creating stories for my novels during that time, I was creating the story of my life. A story I needed to establish before I could continue my book writing journey.
Now, more than a decade with no books published, I’ve begun this second chance chapter of my life with the release of Gold: Heart of a Warrior. I’m forever grateful to my publisher, Champagne Book Group, for providing me with this opportunity to share my writing with the world once more. I’m excited to announce that editing has begun on A Warrior’s Peace, book two in my Gold series! I’m also working on a short story holiday collection of modern-day fairytales, a fallen angel romantic suspense, a magical realism retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, and a nonfiction book about the creative path. I’m so thankful to have my creatress back as my companion and look forward to her guiding me for years to come.
Eden Robins believes in second chances. She’s been lucky enough to have a few in her life and knows there’s a magic in seizing the moment to try again. As a mentor, her heart’s purpose is to guide people into living as their full, innate, creative potential. As a writer, her heart leads her to inspire readers through her tales. Creating stories about people courageously living, loving, and experiencing life true to themselves, no matter how messy it gets, are the ones Eden wants to write and will keep writing for you…and for her. Connect with Eden at https://linktr.ee/edenrobins and check out her blog, Living the Path, https://awholeheartedme.com/blog
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
As a child, I grew up reading books by Tolkien, Hobbs etc. and developed a strong interest in fantasy. In school, I found history to be a difficult subject and a trick I grew fond of was to substitute real events with more fantastical versions of them incorporating elements of magic and sorcery to make them more interesting and thus easier to remember. Even long after school, I’d look back at important historical moments and altered variations I had cooked up in my mind. Even to this date, I find these altered histories more interesting than novels that have clear demarcation of good and bad characters and ones featuring happily-ever-after endings.
For the last decade my focus has been on software and cloud infrastructure consulting. While architecting software systems, I have often wondered what if the real world was programmable like a computer. What if there was a system in place to enable us to define precise contracts and this system was freely and fairly accessible to all of mankind. I wondered if this would lead to betterment of humanity or bad actors would just find more creative ways to exploit it. The concept of runecraft in my books embodies this concept.
For many years, I built up adhoc storylines along these ideas and for a long time they were just disconnected fragments in my mind. But a year ago during a career break due to illness I decided to put my thoughts into words. To my surprise, I did manage to mash them together into a coherent storyline and the emerging result looked like something that at least one reader would enjoy – me.
So now I am taking the chance and putting in a bit more effort into transforming this into something that others may also find enjoyable. Whether or not that actually happens, remains to be seen.
Advertisements
2) What inspired you to write your book?
The primary inspiration is the observation that evil lurks in every corner and every heart. I am not a nihilist but one historical theme that has been very close to my heart is that cost of small mistakes and wrongdoings by many individuals add up over time, often catastrophically.
The atrocities committed by East India company in India, the brutalities by Mughal invaders before that, the injustices against lower castes by Brahmins, were all possible not because of a grand master plan by an evil genius but due to many many individuals making separate wrong decisions in self interest. Same holds for global events like rise of Nazis & fascists in the west or the bombing of Japan in the east.
We only realize the true impact of these decisions after catastrophic events like the genocide of ’71 (একাত্তরের গণহত্যা) in Bangladesh (where part of my family originally hails from), the Bengal famine of ’43, Massacre of Jallianwala Bagh etc. but by then the chain of misdemeanors is so long that there is no realistic way to serve justice meaningfully.
The storyline for The Revenge of the Wraith Paladin stems from a question I asked myself as a child – what if the Mughal invaders of India were an alien race from beyond this world.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
I hope to inspire to inspire people to look beyond broad categorizations of good and evil and focus more on nuances and to question all they see and hear.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I was inspired by many many authors whose great works I have had the pleasure of reading over the years. In particular, I’d like to thank:
1. Michael Moorcock: For demonstrating that flawless elegance and mind-numbing horror can be blended together seamlessly
2. John Bierce, Stephen King and Sanderson: For demonstrating that complex plots and intricate systems of magic can and do work well for fast paced fantasy
3. Tower curator: For demonstrating that blood sorcery can be elegant.
4. Will Wight: For demonstrating that the concepts of authority and ascension can be such amazing plot drivers.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I’d sit down with Nazaar, the grandmaster. I’d try to understand how, despite of all the obstacles that he continues to face at every turn, he finds the courage to keep plodding forward with ever more ambitious plans.
He was the only character in my book who seemed to evolve on their own during my writing. Most of what we read about the grandmaster in The Revenge of the Wraith Paladin series, was just not present in my original plot plan.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Primarily twitter, discord and to some extent Reddit, where I have had some really nice interactions with people who love books & fantasy. I’d like to thank them all for the valuable advice and criticism that they took out the time to share with me.
I also remain very optimistic about the future of federated social networks like Bluesky and mastodon – they have small but rapidly growing community of book lovers. I’d encourage more people to be a part of these networks.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Bit too early for me to answer this, but I’d like to advise folks to write things that at least they themselves would enjoy as a reader. But if you do have something interesting to say, modern technology has made it easier than ever to put your thoughts forward and connect to a global community. Don’t wait too long – YOLO.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I am currently working on a parallel series titled “The Grandmaster’s Gamble” that explores Nazaar’s past. It has some overlap in characters with Revenge of the Wraith Paladin, but can be read independently. The second book of this series is also planned to be released later this year.
Advertisements
About the Author
Avid fiction aficionado and fantasy author dabbling in the grimdark, arcane and all things forbidden and forgotten.
