I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An 18th century witch reaches out metaphysically to help those in the future struggling in author H.C. Turk’s “Versions of Nirvana.”
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The Synopsis
In order to save her family, an 18th-century witch entertains suicide, thereby entering a coma-like trance that lasts 300 years. In this magical state, she reaches into the future to guide other people who long for redemption.
England, 1710. Young Alba knows she is a witch, but the term means nothing until her mother is executed for witchcraft. Then Alba enters a trance that causes everyone around her debilitating emotions, just like Alba’s. The trance, which is Alba’s magic, does not appear again until years later when her mentor is arrested and sentenced to death. Panicked, Alba stabs herself in the heart. Instead of dying, she enters a “false sleep” (coma), a state of spiritual consciousness. Hoping to find peace for others, she seeks similar souls in the future:
Germany, 1942: An American soldier is mortally wounded. In his final moment, he experiences the glory of a beautiful life, if only in his dreams. He enters a spiritual realm filled with warm family adventures, metaphysical escapades that are alternately hilarious and horrific, yet always lead away from anguish. Directed by Alba’s unseen influence, Andrew fights for solace, and wins.
Indonesia, 2003: A young American woman on a Western Pacific island must relive an ancient, tortuous journey through a primitive environment in order to redeem the foreigners in the country. Influenced by a power she can only sense in her heart (Alba), Connie seeks a solution of acceptance instead of rejection.
Told with humor and compassion, the heart of the book is the longing to find peace despite haunting failure, and finding joy in helping others achieve the same.
Importantly, Versions Of Nirvana is feel-great magical realism for readers seeking more insight and originality than provided by mainstream fiction.
The Review
This was a compelling and thought-provoking read. The author does a remarkable job of creating a visceral world that feels both magical and realistic all at once. The author’s ability to jump between time periods and make the reader feel immersed in those eras was remarkable, through powerful imagery and detail that made the story come alive on the page. The heart and passion the author wrote these characters with made them feel connective and easy to empathize with through their struggles.
The heart of this narrative was the shocking story developments and the emotional themes the author explored in this narrative. The book allowed readers to connect to the characters through shared redemption and heartbreak, with the protagonist serving as both a witness and a guide to the other characters these chapters explored. Their struggles, their losses, and their experiences with everyone around them showed them the best and worst of humanity, and the way these characters struggled against oppression and the need to find inner peace became so pivotal to the narrative.
The Verdict
Memorable, honest, and enthralling, author H.C. Turk’s “Versions of Nirvana” is a powerful metaphysical historical fantasy read. The compelling character dynamics, rich imagery and settings, and the breathtaking themes will have readers hanging onto the author’s every word and eager for the next chapter as one ends and the next begins. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Listen up. Lookie here. Read ’em and weep:
Space pirates steal skinny gals. If you’re depressed by The Depression, should you waterboard a banker? Ideas are greater monsters than the demons they explain. I’d bare my soul, but don’t want to bore.
All of these Mystiphysical treasures can be found in my work: In a verbal world where art is the ultimate animal, fiction evolution never ends, rising from the depths of the psyche to sing across a new sky.
I am beyond honored to be able to share this amazing book series recap of author Tricia Copeland’s “Realm Chronicles Series.” This five-book series follows a young teenage girl who is suddenly thrust into the spotlight as she becomes the first ruler of Aubren to be a Queen. A realm of fae and other creatures, she must assert herself as a leader and face an ancient evil while navigating complex family relationships, murky political alliances, and so much more. Below you will find the synopsis for each book, as well as my review of the book and links to the full reviews and the books purchase links. I hope you will take the time to read each one carefully and take the plunge yourself to read this series and enjoy it as much as I did. Please enjoy.
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To Be a Fae Queen (Book 1)
The Synopsis
The last of her line, a faerie princess prepares to take the throne. But multiple forces plot against her, some trusted friends…
After losing her brothers, Titania studies and trains to rule Aubren. When she proves her abilities in battle, she’s handed the crown. But fifteen and the first female monarch in the realm, many question her ability to reign and one of their own steps up to oppose her.
Following her inner compass she prepares to face the challenger. The contest seems lost but a latent power fuels her win and her adversaries must concede that she is the rightful ruler.
The enemy brewing under their bedrock threatens again, this time seemingly aided by an unknown spirit. Titania wonders if she will be able to access the sentient magic that hangs just out of reach. Will it manifest when she most needs it? Or do they face an eternity in darkness?
The Review
Titania is such a powerful and compelling protagonist. The author does a remarkable job of creating a vast and thrilling world that readers can easily get lost in. The world-building is next level, allowing readers to easily get lost in the world of Aubren and this realm of faeries. The magical system the author develops feels natural and action-packed, and yet the amazing mythology of creatures such as the kobold, and how that plays into the impact on both the protagonist and her family, makes this a compelling narrative to get lost in.
The heart of this story is, of course, the character dynamics, as it explores Titania’s rise to power as the new ruler of this realm. The young teen girl and her innate powers make her a force to be reckoned with, yet her strength is continually challenged by others because she is the first female leader of the realm. The way the author balances this with ancient prophecies, dwelling evils, and emotional flashbacks that show the events that led to her rise as Queen will make Titania’s story feel alive and fresh on the page, and this novel will be a great start to the series.
Independent Book Publishers Association Silver Award Winning YA Audiobook 2023
She may be the only fae standing between her realm and the evil lurking below. Will Titania be given the power she needs?
Titania defeats a group of creatures threatening to colonize Middle Earth. In ending them she broke not one but two edicts of the High Council. But justice may fall on the only person holding the key to her ability to defend the fae.
The evil spirits manifesting the terrorists lurk below, lying in wait to strike again. With loss of a much-needed ally, she lacks freedom to learn what the realm may be facing. Worse yet, many, even some most trusted compatriots, distance themselves from the reckless Queen she’s painted to be.
Her power shackled and left alone, Titania loses faith in her once clear path.
Can she find her footing in time to save them all from eternal darkness?
To be a Fae Guardian is the second book in the Realm Chronicles series, continuing a magical journey into the realm of Middle Earth. If you like dauntless heroines, you’ll love Tricia Copeland’s gripping fantasy.
Buy To be a Fae Guardian to spiral into a new world today!
The Review
The author’s ability to really develop this series and these characters, and to add even more stakes to the dangers they face, was incredible to see come to life in this story. The shocking events of book one play out their consequences in this novel, exploring what happens when a hero’s choices to save people break ancient laws in the process. As the threat of these ancient forces continues to grow, alliances and those she trusts most become distant from her, as the treason she is accused of threatens her rule and leaves her kingdom open to the forces she is so desperate to protect everyone from.
The balance of Titania’s character growth with the stronger themes of trust, alliances, and what it means to be a fair and balanced ruler was well explored in this epic fantasy story. The way the author explores Titania’s trials and tribulations in this story made her feel more grounded and relatable than ever before, showcasing that even the strongest heroes face doubt and question themselves. The introduction of her cousins and exploring what fears of loss can drive a person to do were powerful additions to the narrative, and the emotional depth of seeing all of this put onto the shoulders of a teenager makes the story and the stakes of this novel, as Middle-earth becomes a focal point, feel more important and invested in the narrative.
Titania may be the only one capable of ending the evil stalking the fae, but staying alive long enough to do it may prove her biggest challenge yet.
Hidden deep in fae lore lies a legend. It holds that there will be One granted the power to end all evil. Titania has come to realize she may be the prophesied One.
An omen of three evils and being wooed by a pack of hungry suitors are only a few of Queen Titania’s stresses. Everything is piling up, and she’s determined to rise to each challenge.
She must harness the gifts bestowed upon her, but time is ticking away, and the best she can manage are a few sparks. Now, there’s a race against time as she’s tasked with choosing a husband while trying to save the world from certain doom.
To Be a Fae Legend, the third book of the Realm Chronicles series, is a treacherous journey into Lower Earth. Enter if you dare risk confrontation with nightmare-ish beasts and dark spirits of the deep.
If you like valiant heroines, you’ll love Tricia Copeland’s electrifying fantasy.
This was such an enthralling and entertaining entry in the Realm Chronicles series. What stood out immediately in this story was the difference in pacing, taking a step back from the danger lurking on a razor’s edge and instead focusing on Titania’s personal growth as both Queen and savior to her people. The imagery in the author’s writing is so bright and breathtaking, giving readers an almost cinematic experience that brings them fully into this realm with ease.
What really brought readers into this immersive experience was the intrigue and atmosphere of life in court. The sparks of romantic interest between the suitors and Titania’s exhaustive deep dive into those possibilities, all while exploring the politics and power plays of life at court, made the story feel vibrant and alive on the page. The world-building was top-notch, and the tension that builds as readers discover more about the brewing battle between Titania and Sonia will leave readers feeling immersed in the edge-of-your-seat thrill this story provides.
“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 Rogueto 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 to 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.
Poised to usher in a new era of unity for all fae, Queen Titania grasps for a solution for her people. With chaos in the human realm and her own, she’s stretched to make progress in either.
She finds she can’t turn her back on the witches when they’re so close to finding the key to ending Sonia’s reign of terror, but Titania worries for her fae and their need for continuity.
Both realms are on a collision course with chaos, and Titania must choose whether her people will be best served by aiding in the battle the witches wage against Sonia or by stabilizing warring forces in the fae realm.
One fateful day turns the tide, leaving Titania questioning all her allies.
How do you stop evil when it resides within everyone?
To be a Fae is the final book in the Realm Chronicles series and a harrowing, twisted tale of a fae queen’s attempts to secure the realms of Middle and Upper Earth.
Read To be a Fae to embolden Titania as she fights for peace today!
The Review
This was a gripping, powerful, and engaging finale to a thrilling fantasy series. The staggering heights the author’s world-building reached in this narrative were nothing short of incredible, and the emotional payoff for so many characters and their arcs throughout this series was breathtaking to witness. The first-person perspective readers get through Queen Titania’s eyes throughout the narrative shows how hands-on she is as a protagonist and leader to her people, getting into the thick of the battles being waged against this mad archangel and the forces pitted against them.
The powerful themes and emotional character developments are what made this book, and the series overall, so compelling to begin with. The theme of betrayal ran deep throughout this book, turning this fantasy story into a politically charged and personal story of the sting betrayal brings and the questions it raises as a leader to others in that same process. The protagonist’s decisions show the duality of her nature as a ruler, her duty to her own heart, and the sacrifices she must make for both.
This was a thrilling, inspiring, and enthralling fantasy series. Following such a strong and compelling female protagonist grow and become the strong leader and warrior she became was so empowering and gave readers a thrilling protagonist to root for and follow. The powerful imagery and the fast pacing each novel brought to life kept readers on the edge of their seats and emotionally rooted in these character’s lives as this realm became a place readers waited eagerly to dive into headfirst. Be sure to check it out for yourselves today!
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About the Author
Tricia Copeland believes in finding magic. She thinks magic infuses every aspect of our lives, whether it is the magic of falling in love, discovering a new passion, viewing a beautiful sunset, or reading a book that transports us to another world. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles from contemporary romance, now penned under Maria Jane, and fantasy, to dystopian fiction.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author James L. Hill shares a powerful collection of short stories in the book “The Moth and Other Tantalizing Tales.”
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The Synopsis
From the dark distant past to the far-flung fantastic future comes crimes of passion and hopeful heroes.
The world has fallen back into a more deadly Covid-19 pandemic. A journalist, Baron Beard, risks everything to uncover government secrets exposed by an internet troll known only as Veritas.
Harry, a brilliant but naïve computer hacker, finds himself drawn deeper into the underworld like a moth to a flame. Of course, there’s a woman holding the torch.
Dr. Energy has plans to save the world but only if he can avoid destroying it first. He’s 99% sure he can. Well, maybe 85%. But he still likes his odds.
You will be intrigued as you turn the pages and the plot twists in these eight amazing stories of mysteries, thrillers, and dystopian science fiction.
The Review
What a compelling and gripping collection of short stories. The pacing and world-building the author poured into the collection were astounding, with each story giving readers a chance to connect with the characters and feel the emotional weight of its consequences. The powerful imagery in these stories helped bring the grandiose, sci-fi elements to the narratives, while the character development grounded the characters, making for a truly balanced reading experience.
Yet at the heart of each story was a strong, thematic narrative that really stood out. The stories explored everything from man’s attempts to rewrite nature and the role of science versus religion, to a slave’s desperate escape to freedom and the cost that comes to those who enslave others, and so much more. The blend of science fiction, fantasy, and horror that the author introduces throughout the collection helps cement these characters and adds emotional depth, allowing the reader to invest in them so quickly.
The Verdict
Captivating, enthralling, and thrilling, author James L. Hill’s “The Moth and Other Tantalizing Tales” is a must-read short story collection. The twists and turns in each story, the heartfelt and compelling emotional beats each one hits, and the thought-provoking themes these stories encompass will stay with readers long after the collection ends, leaving them eager to explore more from this amazing author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
James L Hill, a.k.a. J L Hill, is a native New Yorker from the South Bronx, Fort Apache, of the turbulent 60’s. He earned a degree in computer programming, his other love. A multi-genre author, his experiences seasoned his novels and the worlds he imagined. James started RockHill Publishing LLC to publish his own work and give others access to the literary world.
A new direction for Zachary Hagen, the critically acclaimed author of the Eternal Chronicles series
NOW ON PRE-SALE WITH A RELEASE IN FEBRUARY 2026
How many masks can one girl wear?
Aisha is the best thief in Easima, the capital of Makan Alsahar. She wants to survive and to thrive, but how can she? After all, an orphaned daughter of a seamstress without a single honest dinari can’t aspire to much more than stealing the very bread she needs to live…and maybe a few fancy jewels and golden trinkets.
On a particularly fruitful day of thievery, Aisha finds a bottle and unleashes the fiery djinn within. When the djinn, Qadira, offers her three wishes in gratitude for her freedom, she mistakenly wishes to become a princess. However, instead of becoming the daughter of a childless king, she switches lives with Prince Aladdin.
Thrust into the life of princess of Makan Alsahar, Aisha must navigate the convoluted intrigue of the palace court. Unfortunately, Rapha, a low-level advisor, knows who she is and blackmails her into helping him rise through the levels of the royal advisory.
When Aisha meets Aladdin in the markets of Easima, she starts to fall for him even though she stole the life that was rightfully his. Now Aisha must hide her true identity and help Rapha climb the ladder of success in the Makan Alsaharn court. Will she keep living a beautiful lie, or will the truth be what it takes to finally leave her old life behind for real?
From the author of the Eternal Chronicles comes a dramatic retelling of the story of Aladdin. The intrigue and drama of Aisha’s Secret will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
“Zachary Hagen’s Eternity’s Well (Eternal Chronicles Book 1) is a bold and delightful opening into a fantasy series that is worth following” _ The Serial Reader
“The apparent audience is the teen and YA group, though the ideas supported by this novel should appeal to a wider group. Zachary Hagen is establishing a solid seat in the fantasy genre” _ Grady Harp, Top 100 Amazon Reviewer.
About Zachary:
Zachary Hagen is a Christian fantasy author and editor. He lives with his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn’t busy writing his next book or working with an editing client, you can often find him walking around his neighborhood or hiking.
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.
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I have been writing on and off professionally for a long time. I started at U.C. Berkeley (where I briefly went) when I took a playwriting class. I then went to film school where I focused mostly on screenplays.
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2) What inspired you to write your books?
Phil co-starred in a play I wrote and we became friends. I had the idea for The Magic Maze and thought it would be interesting to collaborate with him and he agreed. I had written quite a bit of animation for TV like Duck Tales and Batman and wanted to do something for kids.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your books?
Through love and perseverance, you can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I’ve always liked fantasy.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your trilogy, what would you ask them and why?
I would ask Simon Percival why it’s so important for him to have power. I’m interested in why some people desire to rule others.
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6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Make sure you have a way to support yourself so you don’t have to depend on making a living from your writing. That is why I eventually became a college English professor.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
Currently, I am writing a new stage play that is sort of a mystery thriller.
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About the Author
Samuel Warren Joseph is a writer whose credits include DuckTales, Batman, Beast Wars, and the film Off Your Rocker. His plays and musicals, including Window of Opportunity, Campaign, and God Help Us!, have earned critical acclaim. He co-authored Ed Asner’s autobiography and teaches college English and Creative Writing.
I am beyond honored to share this excellent recap of author Zachary Hagen’s “Eternal Chronicles Series.” This five-book series follows a group of people suffering their own losses who must band together to fight and stop an ancient evil in a powerful fantasy-driven narrative. Below you will find the synopsis for each book, my review, and links to the full reviews and the book’s purchase links. I hope you will take the time to read each one carefully and take the plunge yourself to read this series, enjoying it as much as I did. Please enjoy.
When you lose family, friends, and country, how far is too far?
Elior watched as his twin brother, the only real family he had left run into a building as it disappeared.
Nyx, a cursed merman, watched as his father and best friend were killed in front of him.
Opal’s father died leaving her with a legacy to live up to and a throne to protect.
When they join forces with a wise professor to find the Well of Eternity, can they find answers to their problems? Can the ancient evil lurking in the shadows of society be stopped before it’s too late, or will blood be spilled killing their hope and dooming Lux Terra forever?
Eternity’s Well will hook you from the very beginning and take you on a spellbinding, breathtaking journey through a new world where anything is possible.
My Impression
This was such an imaginative and visceral read. The author did an incredible job of capturing the magic and wonder of this new fantasy world while balancing this with emotion and realism that brings these characters’ struggles a healthy dose of emotional reality. The world-building and atmosphere felt epic in this book, giving the reader a look into the mythos and dynamics of this world and the cultures of these characters in a way that feels relatable yet magical all at once.
The character development and tension that the book builds to in this novel were the highlights of this incredible novel. The infusion of the world’s mythos into these character arcs made the world feel vibrant and alive, and the emotional toll that the losses that bond these characters together take will resonate with many readers. Amongst the chilling villains and ancient evils that the group must battle and navigate through, it is the theme of loss that plays the most prevalent, and the imagery in this writing helps to bring this theme to life in a thrilling way.
Flip the coin and find a whole new world on the other side.
The Circle is uniting the countries of Lux Terra. Elior, Nyx, and Opal are finding that some things have changed as the result of their adventures with Michael. Yrahkaz has been tasked with squashing the growing obsession with Michael.
When an important clue to finding Eliam and fixing Nyx’s and Opal’s problems is given to them, they recruit the help of a disgraced magi-technician to get to him, but their initial success is more then they bargained for.
The other side of the Mirror of Eternity is filled with wonders and dangers they never imagined. Will they still be able to prevail against an evil that is bent on devouring them whole, or will they fall prey to its cunning pursuit?
Eternity’s Mirror is the thrilling continuation of The Eternal Chronicles picking up where Eternity’s Well left off.
My Impression
The world-building in this novel is simply incredible. While I am new to this series and I would recommend reading the first book in the series to really be able to capture the backstory and history of these characters, the author did an amazing job of building a story that could stand on its own two feet and a mythos that is rich with dynamic history and storytelling. The way the setting allowed readers to be brought into a brand new world while seeing how magic and sword & sorcery style storytelling could reflect in a more modern world was incredible to see and made the journey feel that much more engaging.
The character growth was spectacular here. The way the author was able to introduce a wide array of characters to help flesh out this growing mythos while also giving more depth to the main cast of characters, both the protagonists and antagonists alike, was beautifully done. The heart of the narrative really did a great job of balancing out the larger, fate of the world dangers with the more personal character struggles, like Elior’s journey to finding Elliam.
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.
My Impression
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.
After Taking over the leadership of the Refuge, Elior and His friends have a time of peace, but when Taariq makes good on his promise to marry Viola and make her his empress, no one could withhold the wrath of the people when they rebel against djinn rule.
The Refuge must become a beacon of light in a world darkened by rebellion, but when a self-proclaimed “Holy Army” rises up, will Elior and his friends be able to keep that light shining bright? Will Aelon’s call prove too much to handle? Will the past keep them from moving forward?
Eternity’s Edge is the penultimate book in the Eternal Chronicles series. Its pages will take you on an epic journey to the absolute Edge of the world where the end of this spellbinding tale will begin.
My Impression
This was a mesmerizing and entertaining read. The author does an excellent job of continuing to push the limits of the world they have crafted, engaging with the existing mythos while also adding new elements into the narrative to keep the balance of ancient magic with modern technology alive in the reader’s mind. Although this book definitely benefits the reader after reading the previous entries in the series, the story in this fourth book pays off the experiences and hardships that these characters have endured in the past.
Yet amidst all of this narrative’s action, adventure, and magical circumstances, the rich character dynamics speak to the reader as the themes of social classes, family, friendship, and love all take center stage. The romance between Elior and Nereza, the friendship between Elior and Nxy, and even the power-mad elitism of the villain Taariq all speak to the reader on a deeper level. It made the action and mythological nature of the narrative feel more grounded yet powerful.
Taariq has continued his descent into madness, and his supporters are more devoted than ever, at least for a time. As he pursues his ultimate goal of reclaiming his dragon form and tearing Aelon and Michael from their throne, Elior, Nereza, Opal, and Nyx aim to follow Michael’s call, but it isn’t easy.
Building a boat in the peaks of Nanony seems foolish to most, and plagues divide the faithful from the merely present until dragon-fire rains down and flood waters rise. Will Taariq finally be defeated, or will his mad rush for power prove successful against the forces of light?
This final installment of The Eternal Chronicles brings together old friends and lovers for one final battle that will decide the fate of Lux and Nox Terra forevermore. This fast-paced tale will keep you hooked from cover to cover with a whiplash race to the end of our heroes’ journey.
My Impression
This is a compelling and thought-provoking final chapter in this epic fantasy series. The author does an incredible job of layering the story with imagery and tone that reflects an almost biblical atmosphere while still delivering epic world-building and fantasy elements to keep readers enthralled. The exploration of both the good and negative aspects of blind faith and the classic theme of good versus evil throughout this series pays off spectacularly in this book.
The heart, as always, rests in this novel’s fantastic world-building, mythos, and character development. The various levels of magic power each creature has and the small band of heroes brave enough to face the challenges a powerhouse like Taariq presents to the world represent the power of light over darkness perfectly. The emotional bonds each of the heroes had with one another in their quest made the story more engaging.
This was a compelling, imaginative, and heartfelt fantasy series. The full character arcs that the reader was given, the world-building, and the atmospheric nature of the overall series felt cinematic and almost biblical in a sense, speaking to themes of destiny and facing the darkness both outside and within ourselves. The theme of light versus darkness was exemplified well in this story, as was the narrative of blind faith overall, making this a truly enthralling series to get lost in. Be sure to check it out for yourselves today!
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About the Author
Zachary Hagen is a fantasy author and editor. He lives his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn’t busy writing his next book or teaching, you can often find him walking around his neighbor hood or up hiking in Hanging Rock Park with his wife and their friends.
From a young age he was enthralled with the world of story. From the stories his parents read to him from his blue bedtime story books (if you know, you know) to the first two series that he read, The Chronicles of Narnia and A Series of Unfortunate Events, Zachary’s tastes continued to develop throughout his years of reading.
The influences for his first series, The Eternal Chronicles, include Christopher Paolini, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A Fae Queen must choose a suitor, delve into Lower Earth, and discover if she lives up to a fabled prophecy in author Tricia Copeland’s “To Be A Fae Legend”, the third book in the Realm Chronicles series.
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The Synopsis
Titania may be the only one capable of ending the evil stalking the fae, but staying alive long enough to do it may prove her biggest challenge yet.
Hidden deep in fae lore lies a legend. It holds that there will be One granted the power to end all evil. Titania has come to realize she may be the prophesied One.
An omen of three evils and being wooed by a pack of hungry suitors are only a few of Queen Titania’s stresses. Everything is piling up, and she’s determined to rise to each challenge.
She must harness the gifts bestowed upon her, but time is ticking away, and the best she can manage are a few sparks. Now, there’s a race against time as she’s tasked with choosing a husband while trying to save the world from certain doom.
To Be a Fae Legend, the third book of the Realm Chronicles series, is a treacherous journey into Lower Earth. Enter if you dare risk confrontation with nightmare-ish beasts and dark spirits of the deep.
If you like valiant heroines, you’ll love Tricia Copeland’s electrifying fantasy.
Download To Be a Fae Legend to spiral into a magical world today!
The Review
This was such an enthralling and entertaining entry in the Realm Chronicles series. What stood out immediately in this story was the difference in pacing, taking a step back from the danger lurking on a razor’s edge and instead focusing on Titania’s personal growth as both Queen and savior to her people. The imagery in the author’s writing is so bright and breathtaking, giving readers an almost cinematic experience that brings them fully into this realm with ease.
What really brought readers into this immersive experience was the intrigue and atmosphere of life in court. The sparks of romantic interest between the suitors and Titania’s exhaustive deep dive into those possibilities, all while exploring the politics and power plays of life at court, made the story feel vibrant and alive on the page. The world-building was top-notch, and the tension that builds as readers discover more about the brewing battle between Titania and Sonia will leave readers feeling immersed in the edge-of-your-seat thrill this story provides.
The Verdict
Inviting, entertaining, and story-driven, author Tricia Copeland’s “To Be a Fae Legend” is a must-read fantasy epic and a grand entry in the Realm Chronicles series. The powerful imagery and the compelling fantasy world readers can get lost in will significantly elevate the story’s politics, intrigue, and shocking twists and turns, giving readers an enthralling tale to devour and leaving them on the edge of their seats 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
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.
A town magician must determine if his father is guilty of harming a villager in the past in author S.A. Schneider’s “Transgression of Magic”, the second book in the “Town Magician” series.
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The Synopsis
Samual has finally stepped into his role as the Town Magician, using his magic to protect the village and dazzle the crowds with Advisor Rory by his side. Life is good—until a ruthless bounty hunter arrives, demanding the town hand over a fugitive. The fugitive? Samual’s father.
Joseph, once a respected Town Magician himself, has spent years on the run after allegedly harming a villager. Now, the past is catching up, and Samual is faced with an impossible truth: his father might be a criminal. Determined to uncover what really happened, Samual and Rory begin digging into the past—only to unearth more than they bargained for. Someone has been hiding the truth, and the real traitor may still be out there.
As time runs out and the bounty hunter closes in, Samual must decide where his loyalties lie and whether he can trust the magic in his veins. Because if he chooses wrong, he won’t just lose his father—he could lose everything.
The Review
This was such an imaginative and enthralling fantasy read. The coming-of-age story is filled with excellent world-building, where magic is the norm and is a way of life for the towns of this land. The balance of storytelling with world-building and action was perfect, and the pacing allowed readers to become re-immersed in this world and connected to the character’s journey.
The story itself was very character-driven, not only honing in on Samual’s journey into being the town magician, but in the relationships he has with both Advisor Rory and his father Joseph. The developments with his father play well into the theme of moral responsibility versus family relationships and loyalty. For many young readers, the age-old question of who they are destined to be and whether their family ties play a role in that led them to become more easily immersed in the world itself.
The Verdict
Memorable, compelling, and entertaining, author S.A. Schneider’s “Transgression of Magic” is a must-read coming-of-age fantasy story and a grand entry in the Town Magician series. The twists and turns the story takes as Samual delves further and further into the secrets of the past and the journey he takes to embrace magic more fully will keep readers on the edge of their seats as the story progresses. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
S.A. Schneider has a wolf, so of course he writes middle grade fantasy, wouldn’t you? Since his Lego and action figure days, he’s crafted worlds and stories within those worlds. This pursuit
continues into his middle grade fantasies.
He doesn’t stop with writing stories – he works with kids to pass on the joy of writing books and videogames. He wants others to join him and delve into creating fantastical worlds.
