Tag: fantasy

The Ascension (Callum Walker Book One) by J.M. Shaw 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. 

An introverted young man discovers he has gained new powers and becomes embroiled in a war between two evil and powerful brothers in author J.M. Shaw’s “The Ascension”, the first book in the Callum Walker series.

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The Synopsis

A magical war is brewing. While humankind is blissfully unaware, two evil brothers, a sorcerer and a necromancer, are marshaling deadly supernatural forces and armies of mythical creatures in a bid to destroy one another. The triumphant warlord will be free to impose their dominion over Earth’s natural world and a coexisting magical realm concealed from human knowledge behind an ethereal veil.

Meanwhile, Callum Walker is an introverted young man born with gifts that he struggles to understand. As monsters begin wreaking havoc in his city, Callum is compelled to use his unmastered arcane abilities to combat the growing menace. Unfortunately, the scheming warlords notice his vigilante escapades, and both see Callum as a potential threat.

While coming to terms with his extraordinary powers, Callum discovers a hidden world of magic and a cryptic prophecy that proclaims he will end the warfare now breaching the veil. However, Callum soon finds himself pursued by the agents of both factions, plus those seeking personal sanctuary or offering to help.

Ultimately, Callum Walker must overcome his fears and doubts if he hopes to survive, let alone bring the conflict to an end.

The Review

What a magical and powerful read. The author immediately draws the reader in with both personal internal conflict for the protagonist and terrifying supernatural and magical threats to the world. The action is adrenaline-fueled, and the imagery the author uses brings the visceral nature of the fighting and the creatures that make up this magical world to life in a very cinematic way. The pacing is fast-paced, drawing the reader in early on and laying out the wealth of mythos the author cultivated for this series. 

The heart of the narrative resides in the character developments that bring this story to life. Not only did I immediately resonate with Callum’s story and personal struggles, especially as an introvert with social anxiety myself, but the wide cast of characters gave readers multiple perspectives that captured the chaos of the war between the two evil brothers and the skewed perspectives their allies have of one another, adding to Callum’s growing problems throughout the narrative.

The Verdict

Memorable, thrilling, and entertaining author J.M. Shaw’s “The Ascension” is a must-read dark fantasy meets horror novel and the perfect first entry into this new series. The twists and turns in the novel and the powerful imagery that keeps the reader engaged with this story and the characters involved will drive readers to want more and more from this fantastic author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

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

The Lost Art of Magic: Tome I by Jonni Jordyn Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A teen girl unlocks and releases magic back into the world and faces the dark forces who will kill to have it all to themselves in author Jonni Jordyn’s “The Lost Art of Magic: Tome I”.

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The Synopsis

Magic has been lost for centuries, and when 16-year-old Destiny stumbles upon it, she accidentally unlocks it for all the descendants of the ancient clans, but some of them want it only for themselves and are willing to kill to keep it.

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The Review

What a powerful and unique magical novel. The narrative takes off immediately, showcasing a deadly war between witches and their ancient enemies. The protagonist, Destiny, makes a strong impression as she revels in releasing her magical gifts, a first in centuries, and yet stays true to herself, forging her path forward despite her ancestors’ and grandmother’s insistence on learning the ancient ways. The even pacing allows the world-building and mythology the author has established to take hold, enveloping the narrative with creativity and heart.

The imagery of the author’s writing style and the rich storytelling that the author brought to life on the page were superb. The action and chaos that erupt upon Destiny unlocking magic keep the adrenaline flowing, and the character development is so dynamic on the page, from Destiny’s strong protagonist role to her connection to characters like Blake or Marvalaine to the vile villain who will stop at nothing to claim her power. 

The Verdict

Heartfelt, compelling, and entertaining author Jonni Jordyn’s “The Lost Art of Magic: Tome I” is a must-read magical fantasy and supernatural adventure. The narrative’s twists and turns and powerful themes of good versus evil create a new and buzzworthy series that will keep fans on the edge of their seats for book two. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on September 13th, 2024 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Jonni Jordyn, 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.

City in My Hands (Mannahatta Series Book 2) by Thomas More Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A 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.

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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.

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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

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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.

www.thomasmorewriter.com

Rise of the Sentrys (Sentrys of Terrene: Book III) by TC Marti Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A young woman must save her friend from enemy hands or risk losing her identity forever in author TC Marti’s “Rise of the Sentrys”, the third book in the Sentrys of Terrene series.

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The Synopsis

Sabre Kjaergaard and her gang’s victory celebration couldn’t have been more short-lived…

…And the always-sinister Venn Order is out to collect them with the help of a few more notorious factions

Sabre is still reeling from all the lies that have piled up following her less-than-ideal Maalivahti training. But she doesn’t know the extent of the lies everyone has thrown at her. Yet when she’s on the cusp of uncovering the truth about more than just her own past, Sabre is about to learn that these lies from friends and foes alike are just a few of her more minor problems.

With her best friend captured behind enemy lines, Sabre must lead a daring mission to rescue them; one that will test her physically, psychologically, and most importantly, spiritually. If Sabre accomplishes her mission, the World of Terrene will live to fight another day. But if she fails, Sabre will fall to the Venn Order’s temptation and shed her identity as Sabre Kjaergaard forever, dooming her home world.

Rise of the Sentrys is the third and final installment in the Sentrys of Terrene Trilogy, whose plot elements entwine in TC Marti’s shared universe, the Renegades Epic, which also comprises Elementals of Nordica and Terrian Chronicles. If you love dystopian fantasy, elemental magic, and intriguing plot lines where Avatar: The Last Airbender meets George Lucas, Rise of the Sentrys and the entire Sentrys of Terrene Trilogy is what you’re looking for.

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The Review

A truly fantastic and action-packed entry into the author’s greater universe, this novel utilized prominent imagery in the author’s writing with suspense and atmosphere that kept this reader invested in the narrative. The detail that went into the action scenes, even the cinematic quality of the opening chapter as military action blended with magical properties as the protagonist launched into the fray to protect her allies, allowed the reader to feel immersed in the story and the action firsthand.

The personal journey that protagonist Sabre went on did a fantastic job of closing out this trilogy and adding to the mythos of this universe the author has created. The emerging secrets and history of her mother, as well as the role and impact she has on her world and her destiny, kept readers invested in the story as it went on, allowing the rich tapestry of supporting characters and antagonists to feel alive and engaging as Sabre continued her journey.

The Verdict

A truly memorable and thoughtful sci-fi and fantasy action story, author TC Marti’s “Rise of the Sentrys” is a must-read novel and the perfect end to this trilogy while continuing the story the author’s shared universe has created. The twists in the story, the prosperous development of Sabre as a protagonist, and the open ending that leads these characters into the world of Elementals of Nordica in future novels make this a compelling book you won’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy on August 26th, 2024 or preorder 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.

Meet TC MARTI

Testament by Eli Felix 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 Eli Felix reimagines the story of creation and God from a fantasy perspective as the relationship between mankind and spirituality comes to fruition in the novel “Testament.”

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The Synopsis

‘Sometimes placing faith in people is admitting that people make mistakes and that you are willing to forgive them for it’ – TESTAMENT.

‘I say even destiny is a choice. Those who choose destiny should never let go.’ – TESTAMENT

‘Love is like time that flows. It consumes you before you know.’ – TESTAMENT

God created Man for a purpose, to live on Earth and enrich his soul throughout lifetimes of experience so that he may be allowed entry into Heaven. Feminine residents of Heaven demanded representation and God was forced to allow, paving the way for Women. Now, to oversee God’s ambition, residents live amongst them, creating a system for them. But where there is light, there is darkness. Over the ages a battle between the light and darkness ensues and God will stop at nothing to get his way even if he has to defy his own creation!

BOPIS

The Review

This was definitely one of the more unique reads in the fantasy and spirituality genres that I’ve read. Exploring not just the cosmic impact on humanity but the idea of consciousness as a whole was so fascinating to behold. The powerful imagery and redefined look at ideas like Heaven, Hell, and the Universe as a whole, giving physical weight to these settings in a way that hasn’t been done before, made this such a powerful narrative to get lost in.

Not only were the world-building and themes of spirituality and consciousness so well done in this novel, but the character development was also spot on. From the historical and biblical figures on Earth, including Jesus, Peter, Mary, Caligula, and Nero, to more grand characters such as the living embodiments of Love, Song, Dance, Life, Death, and Fear, illustrated the grand mythos the author built. Love became not only a physical character but a theme for which all creation and cosmic function rested, showcasing God not just as an all-knowing creator but as a warrior and family man seeking to make things right.

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The Verdict

Creative, thought-provoking, and entertaining author Eli Felix’s Testament is a must-read fantasy novel. The ideas and concepts the author plays around within this narrative, including creating a strong female voice and representation in the fight for equality and acknowledgment even as far back as the creation of the universe and showing the power that Love can have on even a figure like God, made this a memorable story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Eli Felix is a fitness enthusiast and a model railroader with a passion for writing. He holds an MA degree in Finance and Investment from the University of Nottingham, UK, and had dabbled in different career paths before spending a few years painstakingly creating Testament—a brilliant conceptualized journey into a world of fantasy, right and wrong, good and evil, light and darkness. This is his first foray into publishing.

https://www.elifelix.com

Interview with the Devil: Resurrection by Michael Harbron Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

TRIGGER WARNING: This book features storylines involving SA. Anyone who could be triggered by this storyline should avoid this chapter, which the author outlines at the beginning of the book for readers’ knowledge. Reader discretion is advised.

Joseph Banbury must confront his own inner demons while facing a dark destiny, newfound powers and the Devil himself in author Michael Harbron’s “Interview with the Devil: Resurrection”, the next book in the Interview with the Devil series.

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The Synopsis

In the gripping second installment of the series, Joseph Banbury ventures further into the realms of the supernatural, wielding newfound powers that challenge his understanding of good and evil. As he navigates a treacherous path fraught with peril and deception, Joseph confronts his inner demons while forging an unlikely alliance with the Devil himself. With each step closer to the truth, Joseph unravels dark secrets that bind him to his fate, culminating in a chilling revelation that shakes the foundations of his existence. Will Joseph succumb to his destiny, or will he defy the forces of darkness and forge his own path to redemption?

The Review

What an incredible sequel to the first book in this series! The author did an incredible job of crafting a story that really built upon the mythos and narrative laid down in the first book. One of the first things that stood out to me was how the author explored a writer’s relationship to the craft of writing, from writing for themselves versus writing for others to the responsibility of telling the right story. 

Joseph’s evolution and the volatile and charged sessions interviewing the Devil really kicked this story up a notch. The imagery and powerful world-building that the author poured into this sequel only served to elevate Joseph’s journey, toeing the line between sci-fi and fantasy storytelling and exploring the power and influence of the human psyche as well. The themes of order versus chaos, control versus freedom, and the true nature of “good and evil” made for compelling narratives, and the author really embraced the horror nature of this novel, crafting some chilling scenes that will stay with readers long after the book ends. 

The Verdict

Shocking, entertaining, and harrowing, author Michael Harbron’s “Interview with the Devil: Resurrection” is a must-read supernatural horror fantasy thriller. The twists in the narrative as the author explores both the Devil and Joseph much more closely in this sequel and the cliffhanger ending will stay with readers, who will be eager for the third book in this trilogy. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Michael Harbron is an American fiction writer who brings a unique, yet traditional approach to the horror and supernatural genres. From a young age, Harbron was captivated by the eerie and unexplained, a fascination that has deeply influenced his writing. His works aim to unsettle readers through suspense and psychological depth, revisiting the shadowy corners of childhood fears. His debut novel, “Interview with the Devil,” exemplifies the blurred lines between reality and the unimaginable. Harbron’s storytelling resurrects dormant fears, proving that true horror lies not in what is seen, but in what is felt.

https://michaelharbron.com

Interview with Author Ahlam Faris

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

It’s funny, I never knew I had the talent for writing until one day my literature teacher came running to the class looking for that student who chose to write a story instead of a topic in the exam. And she was like, “You wrote this?” I was like, “Yes!” and wondered if I was in trouble. She was just appalled and said, “Why aren’t you participating in writing contests?” And I answered, “I didn’t know these existed.”

I love writing, I have always found myself imagining new worlds, writing dialogues, and thinking really hard about how the stories in my head can progress. I guess it just comes naturally to me.

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 2. What inspired you to write your book?

I always dreamed of writing a book one day, and it happened to be this one. As for the inspiration, I was reading about Zarqa’a Al-Yamama and wanted to create a character inspired by her. If you don’t know Zarqa’a, she is a real historical figure from pre-Islamic history who had superb eyesight and could see a tiny white hair in a bowl full of laban. She could see invaders from as far as a day and a night’s walk and would warn her people to prepare for a fight. There are many stories about her; some say she had help from Djinn, while others believe she gathered gossip and news from traveling merchants and knew when invaders targeting other villages would come for them. One day, the invaders thought of hiding behind shrubs that they carried and started advancing slowly. When she saw the trees advancing, she told her people, they thought she had gone crazy. Unfortunately, the trick worked, and the invaders killed Zarqa’a. The first thing they did with her body was gouge her eyes out and let the crows eat them. She was my baseline for Mina. However, the character of Mina evolved and developed her own characteristics, background, and story.

 3. What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Mina struggles with restraints. She has to watch herself—to not be sad, to not be angry, to not give in to negative emotions, or the thing within her will start to wiggle itself, and she knows from experience that she can hurt people. But you can’t restrain yourself too much; you will eventually explode. My message is: we all have restraints that we should cater to, but we shouldn’t let them prevent us from being who we want to be. It’s like a game of balance. As Hugo from Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame says “Give her some slack, then reel her in, give her some slack then reel her in.” honestly this is one of my favourite quotes, and kind of a universal advice. You can see this in the world we live in, it’s either total freedom or too much oppression. We have to find the middle ground somehow between the two.

 4. What drew you into this particular genre?

I love fantasy, it’s as simple as that.

 5. If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

Hmm, this is a difficult question! I probably know my characters more than they do themselves. However, I would love to spend time with them over a cup of Quahwa and enjoy it without saying anything.

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 6. What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Since my book hasn’t been published yet, the only place I could see my early readers reactions is through Goodreads. It’s good to see who enjoyed that early ARC, what their thoughts about it and if it wasn’t really the flop, I think it is sometimes. I would love to see random people pop up on My DMs one day and to hear about their thoughts about the book if they liked it. That would be a treat. Like receiving fan mails, I guess. 

 7. What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

This might be repetitive, but just write. As a busy person myself, I rarely have quiet time to write anything, so most of my writing is done through my phone. It’s messy, full of grammatical and spelling mistakes, but I’m laying down the bricks for the story. When I have time, I will sit in front of my computer and start editing. You don’t need to force yourself. Write when inspiration hits you.

8. What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’m currently working on Book 2 of Rings and Chains, but I also started on a new WIP during the waiting time between the editing process of Book 1 and getting it ready for publication. I couldn’t make myself start Book 2 because I was afraid people might not enjoy the first book in the first place. So, I had to distract myself with something totally different. Now that the early reviews are coming in, mostly positive ones, I found the push I needed to start working on Rings and Chains Book 2. I work on my other WIP when I’m in a writing slump or whenever I get an idea for a scene or something while lying late in bed thinking about the story. While I’m really in love with that WIP and would love to share it with the world as soon as possible, it will have to wait until Rings and Chains series is done. Which may take years. But by that time. I will have a lot of material to work with, hopefully. 

You can find me on social media:

Instagram: @yumiche.withbooks

Twitter: @TheAhlamFaris 

Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ahlam-Faris/author/B0D956RZ1B?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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About the Author

I’m Ahlam Faris, a self-published Indie Author who have a passion for all things fantasy, I’ve been writing for years, but I’ve only recently found the courage to submit my work to the world, I really hope you enjoy reading “Rings and chains: Daughter of Light and dark.

https://ahlamfaris.com

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Daughter of Light and Dark (Rings and Chains Book 1) by Ahlam Faris Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A young woman must collect eleven rings holding powerful Jinn kings in order to free her mother’s trapped jinn in author Ahlam Faris’s “Daughter of Light and Dark”, the first book in the Rings and Chains series.

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The Synopsis

She wanted one thing and one thing only, to free her mother’s Jinn from his golden ring, but to free one is to free them all. Accompanied by her Jinny Companion, the Lord of chains, and a dark presence stirring to free from within her, Mina sets on a journey to find all the eleven golden rings of the Kings of Jinn, her main mission overshadowed by scheming royals, a troubled friend, and a crumbling world.

The Review

The world-building and mythos that the author brought to the story were incredibly presented. The Middle-Eastern mythology that became the backbone of this fantasy world brought the story to life thanks to the author’s mastery of imagery in the writing style. The action is immediately felt, taking the reader into the adventure as the protagonist seeks out the rings and cements herself as a hero.

The character development found in this narrative was top-notch. The tension that mounted as the journey got more and more dangerous allowed the relationship between characters like Zyed and Saif with the protagonist, Mina, to grow and prosper naturally. The magic and fantasy elements of the story allowed Mina’s heroic journey to flourish and prosper, giving readers a glimpse into the life that Mina led throughout her journey. The emotional connection to her mother also drove the narrative forward greatly, giving a glimpse into the heart of what makes Mina such a powerful protagonist to follow.

The Verdict

Action-packed, rich in mythos, and thrilling, author Ahlam Faris’s Daughter of Light and Dark is a must-read YA fantasy novel. The narrative’s twists and turns and the shocking final chapter will keep readers eager for more of this brand-new series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I’m Ahlam Faris, a self-published Indie Author who have a passion for all things fantasy, I’ve been writing for years, but I’ve only recently found the courage to submit my work to the world, I really hope you enjoy reading “Rings and chains: Daughter of Light and dark.

https://ahlamfaris.com

Journey of Seven Circles by Russell Pike Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, reviewsLeave a comment

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

A powerful wizard must complete a monumental spell that could cost him his life in author Russell Pike’s “Journey of Seven Circles”.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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