Tag: fantasy

Ballad of the Blade (A Serenade of Smoke Book 1) by Andrew P Meritt 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 group of people in a world where magic has been destroyed must discover if this is truly the case in author Andrew P. Merrit’s “Ballad of the Blade”, the first book in the A Serenade of Smoke series.

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The Synopsis

Ballad of the Blade is a dark, gritty, multi-pov epic, with a dash of horror, and a dollop of gallows humor. It is the debut novel of Andrew P Meritt and the first story of many in A Serenade of Smoke.

Magic is dead.

The Order made sure of that. They gathered it up, and what they couldn’t destroy, they hid. Now, noble houses squabble over the realm, civil unrest smolders in the east, slavery and injustice run rampant, all while mankind hides behind their two-faced gods.

However, the truth is, magic isn’t dead. It’s just been sleeping, and I intend to wake it.

Under the light of a sinister moon:

A promising initiate struggles to conform in an organization that wants to exterminate the very magic running in his blood. A hired assassin fights to stay one step ahead of shadows, betrayals, and past mistakes. A musician in over his head tries desperately to trade debt from one group of killers to another. A slave of blood and sand claws his way toward freedom, one corpse at a time. An irreverent Justiseer struggles with a particularly obstinate severed head. A man wakes with no memory, only to discover a community with problems far greater than his amnesia.

Each of them is forced to question if magic truly is dead and wonder…

Should it be?

The Review

I loved the shifting perspectives of each chapter in this novel. Anytime a novel adapts a multiple POV style of storytelling, readers are given the chance to view the story from unique perspectives that change as each character sees a situation through their own lens. The dynamics between the characters were well ranged, from humorous and competitive at times in the dialogue to chilling and haunting all at once. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing really did an incredible job of bringing this story to life and the world it inhabits.

The world-building and powerful themes this story comprises will really drive the narrative forward. The unique implications of magic and its impact on the world, as well as the changes that result when it is stripped away politically and socially, are fleshed out in shocking ways in the story. The visceral, gritty detail the author puts into this narrative helps lend realism to themes of survival against all odds and of facing challenges and hardships, such as slavery and corrupt leaders. 

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The Verdict

Powerful, haunting, and compelling, author Andrew Meritt’s “Ballad of the Blade” is a must-read dark fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new series. The twists and turns, and the visceral tone of the story overall, capture a harrowing tale of shifting perspectives and overlapping storylines, resulting in a cohesive, massive world that readers can easily get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Andrew Meritt grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he began telling stories around the campfire. Work has taken him from Alaska to Minnesota, Ohio, and California. He is now settled in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, Annika, and their two dogs, Zagreus and Alyeska. He spends his free time rock climbing, snowboarding, and woodworking. Ballad of the Blade is his debut novel.

https://andrewpmeritt.com/

https://www.instagram.com/andrewpmeritt/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ballad-of-the-blade-andrew-p-meritt/1148443293?ean=9798999537102

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The Night Girl by James Bow 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 finds work as an administrative assistant for an agency that places goblins and trolls in the book “The Night Girl” by James Bow.

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The Synopsis

Perpetua Collins works for a real troll.

Well, technically a goblin, and it’s not as bad as it sounds. As the administrative assistant, she provides a “human” face for an employment agency specializing in placements for goblins and trolls. It’s probably the most unusual job she could find in Toronto, but she’s grateful for it, having come to the city with $500 in her pocket and no support. Without it, she’d have no choice but to go back to the boring small town and overbearing mother she worked so hard to leave.

But as Perpetua settles into her new job, disturbing questions arise. And no, they’re not about the fact that goblins and trolls exist. She’s fine with that part. What bothers her is that the agency has no visible means of support. How does her boss manage to keep his “clients” out of the public eye? They’ve been part of the city far longer than anyone thinks, and are growing restless under the burden of forced invisibility and financial poverty.

What will happen if the veil drops, and humans see?

The Review

This was such a unique and engaging fantasy read. The setting of Toronto became just as much a character as the rest of the characters in this book; its unique sights and sounds were captured in the detailed, beautiful imagery the author poured into their writing. The world-building in this novel was top-notch, giving readers an incredible blend of the Toronto scene and the otherworldly, mythical creatures that inhabit it, all in the author’s unique story.

The heart of this narrative lay in its character development and strong themes. The protagonist, Perpetua, is a strong lead who embodies the hopeful spark many try to hold onto as they venture into a new phase of their life, while also maintaining the strength to face the unknown without losing herself in the process. Identity becomes central to this narrative, not only for her but also for the clients she works with, as they seek steady work and acceptance. The commentary on inequality and social class structures was spot-on and fit well with this fantasy-driven narrative. Perpetua’s connection with Fergus is a strong hook that will keep readers invested.

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The Verdict

Memorable, thoughtful, and entertaining, author James Bow’s “The Night Girl” is a must-read fantasy-driven novel. The story has a splash of everything, from a big battle that brings the action and adventure to the narrative, humor in the author’s dialogue, and a hint of romance as well for the protagonist, as the world-building and strong narrative create a world that readers will want to get lost in time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

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I was born in downtown Toronto on April 19, 1972 and lived there until my folks moved up to Kitchener in 1991 so I could attend the University of Waterloo. I’ve lived in Kitchener ever since. I’ve been trained as an urban planner, and I’ve worked as a database manager, web designer, circulation manager, administrative assistant, layout designer and office manager. The one consistent thing about my varied academic and professional career has been a love of writing.

I love to write and I love to read. I especially love to write and read stories set in the young adult years when everything seems big and wonderful (and sometimes frustrating and frightening) and where the greatest achievement is growing up and conquering yourself. This has been a consistent element of a number of my fiction books.

To learn more about me and my writing, please visit my website: 

http://bowjamesbow.ca/

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To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls by Amy S. Cutler 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 woman struggles with the actions that haunt her from a past life in author Amy S. Cutler’s “To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls.”

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The Synopsis

In her past life, after causing the death of a little boy, Nikki was so devastated that her soul mate promised to murder her in their next life, to make her pay for what she had done. With no knowledge of this, Nikki lives for years as an addict, down on her luck, until she is rescued by Ken, who helps her with all aspects of her recovery. With the help of a few new friends and a cat named Destiny, Nikki turns her life around. What she doesn’t know is that someone out there is destined to kill her, and he is watching, his passion for killing her growing stronger each day.

The question is: Can an agreement made between two souls be broken, and how far will one soul go to keep a promise made in a desperate attempt to save the other?

The Review

What a powerful and gripping paranormal and metaphysical fantasy read. The author did an incredible job of balancing the spiritual and karmic aspects of the narrative with the more grounded and emotional character arcs. The opening chapter was a gut punch for readers, revealing the devastating consequences of a single terrible decision. The struggles Nikki went through in this story, and the powerful imagery and atmosphere, were brilliantly illustrated through the author’s writing style and tone.

The heart of this book lies in its rich character arcs and mystery. The idea of karma and past lives was thoughtfully explored in this narrative, and the mystery of who from Nikki’s past life became part of her current life and what role they played was incredibly well developed. The tension and atmospheric nature of the plot, along with the dynamic between Nikki and several characters, were compelling, offering readers emotional depth and thought-provoking insights into the human soul and what it means to be human.

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The Verdict

Fast-paced, emotionally investing, and memorable, author Amy S. Cutler’s “To Have and to Hold, To Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls” is a must-read metaphysical and paranormal fantasy novel. The twists and turns, the shocking revelations, and the heartfelt, heartbreaking final chapters will stay with readers long after the story ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Amy Sampson-Cutler, author of “To Have and to Hold, to Love and to Kill: An Agreement of Souls” and “A Shadow of Love,” is a writer who earned her master’s degree in creative writing from Goddard College. Her work can be found in Slut Vomit: An Anthology of Sex Work, Tales to Terrify, WOW! Women on Writing, The Pitkin Review and more. She is the Executive Manager at Mount Peter Ski Area, where she grew up skiing in the winter and dreaming up stories in the summer. Her favorite days are spent knocking around story ideas with her husband. She lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband, son, and a ridiculous amount of furry family members. 

She can be contacted through AmysHippieHut.com. Also follow her on:

Facebook: https://facebook.com/AmysHippieHut

Instagram: https://instagram.com/amyshippiehut

https://bookshop.org/p/books/to-have-and-to-hold-to-love-and-to-kill-an-agreement-of-souls-amy-s-cutler/20601757?ean=9781685133429&next=t

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Blog Tour Calendar

— Blog Tour Calendar

October 6 @ The Muffin

Join us as we celebrate the launch of To Have and to Hold, to Love and to Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler. We interview the author and give you a chance to win a copy of the book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

October 6 @ Tracey Lampley’s blog

Visit Tracey’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on why she writes scary stories even though she’s afraid of the dark.

https://www.traceylampley.com

October 7 @ All Things Writing

Visit Caitrin’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on finding time to write on a busy schedule.

https://www.caitrincking.com/blog

October 12 @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog for his review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.authoranthonyavina.com

October 15 @ Chapter Break

Visit Julie’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on how to turn everyday encounters into spooky stories.

https://chapterbreak.net

October 18 @ Boots, Shoes, and Fashion

Linda interviews author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

https://bootsshoesandfashion.com

October 20 @ A Storybook World

Visit Deirdra’s blog for her spotlight of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler. 

https://www.astorybookworld.com

October 22 @ Guatemala Paula Loves to Read

Visit Karen’s blog for her review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://guatemalapaula.blogspot.com

October 23 @ Knotty Needle

Visit Judy’s blog for her review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://knottyneedle.blogspot.com

October 23 @ The Faerie Review

Visit Lily’s blog for her spotlight of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.thefaeriereview.com

October 24 @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog for an excerpt from To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://www.authoranthonyavina.com

October 25 @ Word Magic

Visit Fiona’s blog for a guest post by Amy Sampson-Cutler on creating the perfect ambiance to write paranormal tales.

https://fionaingramauthor.blogspot.com/

October 27 @ Lit World Interviews

Visit Ronovan’s blog for his review of To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill by Amy Sampson-Cutler.

https://litworldinterviews.com

October 28 @ Kaecey McCormick’s blog

Visit Kaecey’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on tips on writing for your favorite genre.

https://www.kaeceymccormick.com/blog

October 29 @ Sarandipity

Sara interviews author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

Home

October 30 @ Words by Webb

Stop by Jodi’s blog for Amy Sampson-Cutler’s guest post on her favorite books to read on Halloween.

https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog

October 31 @ Sarandipity

Visit Sara’s blog for a guest post by author Amy Sampson-Cutler on creating the perfect ambiance to write paranormal tales.

Home

November 2 @ Jill Sheets’ Blog

Visit Jill’s blog for her interview with author Amy Sampson-Cutler about her book To Have and To Hold, To Love and To Kill.

https://jillsheets.blogspot.com

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Ironbound (Ironbound Book 1) by Andrew Givler 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 man’s dreams are shattered by an attack, and he must learn to survive after bonding to an unwanted element in author Andrew Givler’s “Ironbound.”

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The Synopsis

Arcane Ascension meets The Blade Itself in the epic fantasy adventure IRONBOUND, where the will to survive – and the urge for revenge – cuts cold and deep.

In the Iron Empire only the strongest are given the chance to Ascend.

Castor has wanted to fuse with a Cor Heart since he was a boy. Made from an otherworldly metal, it will give him the ability to manipulate an element. Now that the trial has finally arrived, it is his chance to prove his worth.

Once he has won the Empress’ blessing, he can attune to a Symbol and begin a life of adventure.

But during the trial, his dreams are interrupted by a vicious attack. His home is left in ruins and his family in peril, all while Castor and his friends are carried away to be conscripted into the Legions.

Bound to a Symbol he never wanted, Castor must survive the Iron City, the enemies in the frozen North, and hidden traitors inside the Rusting Empire before he can get revenge on the ones who took everything from him.

This is the first step of the rise of the Ironbound.

Don’t miss the start of this action-packed, adrenaline-fueled Progression Fantasy epic from Andrew Givler, bestselling author of Soul Fraud and the creator of Sigils, a Youtube channel with 1.4+ Million Subscribers.

Perfect for fans of Arcane Ascension, Mark of the Fool, Pierce Brown’s Red Rising series, The Will of the Many, Book 1 in the Hierarchy series (James Islington), Joe Abercrombie’s The First Law Trilogy (The Blade Itself, Before They Are Hanged, Last Argument of Kings), Jim Butcher’s Codex Alera Series, and The Sword of Kaigen.

The Review

This was a compelling, gripping epic fantasy read. The worldbuilding here was top-notch, giving readers a magical system and a rich mythos that made this world feel real and tangible on the page. The use of Roman historical concepts and societal aspects of the Roman Empire in this narrative, and the ways this informed the main narrative and the significant plot developments, made this story engrossing, as readers found themselves lost in the world and invested in how these characters are pushed to their limits.

The character development was the heart of this story. Castor was a complex protagonist, showing his metamorphosis from a devoted and hopeful servant of the Empire to a revenge-fueled slave seeking justice for his people after a tragic accident spiraled into violence. The psychological and emotional toll this took on him, as well as the mounting losses he suffers throughout the book, give the novel a truly gripping, haunting tone that drives it significantly. 

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The Verdict

If readers were to imagine Gladiator mixed with Game of Thrones and the Thread of Souls series, they would recognize author Andrew Givler’s “Ironbound” as a must-read epic fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new fantasy series. The twists and turns the story takes, the rich imagery of the author’s writing that brings these gritty, brutal battles to life, and the narrative’s detailed pacing as a whole elevated the character development and mythos to all-new heights, leaving readers eager for book two 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

Andrew is the author of the Debt Collection and also a gaming YouTuber known as Sigils. He loves making people laugh, video games, and food. (Not always in that order.) He lives in LA.

Social Media:
Twitter: @sigils
Instagram: @sigils
TikTok: @GivReads
Youtube: @Sigils
BookTube: @GivReads

https://www.andrewgivler.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ironbound-andrew-givler/1146889383?ean=9781638493044

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The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories by Annmarie SanSevero 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 Annmarie SanSevero leads readers into a collection of speculative fiction that explores mystery and the supernatural in “The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories.”

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The Synospis

An Intricate and Harmonious Dance Between Humanity and Technology

Dive into Annmarie SanSevero’s gripping collection of speculative fiction, where suspense, mystery, and the supernatural collide with the frontiers of science. Each story pulses with themes of hope, resilience, and the ethical complexities of technological advancements. 

A testament to the human spirit, these tales weave suspense, mystery, and supernatural elements into a tapestry of speculative fiction that resonates with contemporary societal issues. Don’t miss your chance to experience these unforgettable narratives and embark on a journey that both challenges and inspires.

The Review

This was such a powerful collection of short stories. The speculative fiction genre always knows how to push the envelope and get readers really thinking critically and taking in all considerations. The dynamic character development and fast-paced yet monumental story points in each short story really hit both emotional and psychological notes, resonating with readers as they dive deeper into the collection.

The powerful imagery and strong themes really were the backbone of this collection. The stories each brought a profound discussion to the table, from the titular story’s exploration of technology left unregulated, to the story “Heresy of Peace” delving into the topic of division and war amongst groups of people, whether it be due to politics, religion, or ideology as a whole, and how that division could be the undoing of everyone. The heartfelt emotional pull of these stories and the thrilling twists each one houses make this collection truly shine.

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The Verdict

Engaging, thoughtful, and uniquely human in a very genre-specific collection of stories, author Annmarie SanSevero’s “The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories” is a must-read short story collection of speculative fiction. The twists and turns, the compelling characters, and the thought-provoking themes will keep readers invested in every tale. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Annmarie SanSevero grew up in New York City but was transplanted to the south in high school. She writes stories about hope, courage, and resilience in fantasy, science fiction, steampunk, and mystery. She loves exploring the human experience and wants readers to feel like they can do more than survive. They can be world changers.

When she’s not writing, Annmarie enjoys learning just about everything (yep, she’s a nerd), playing violin, tap dancing, and singing. One day, she wants to go LARPing.

Annmarie SanSevero

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https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-butterflys-stroke-and-other-stories-annmarie-sansevero/1147479747?ean=2940181885394

Academy of Outcasts by Larry Correia Review

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

A young man desperate to become a mage finds himself on the run after being framed for an attempted assassination in author Larry Correia’s “Academy of Outcasts.”

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The Synopsis

A brand new fantasy world from Larry Correia, bestselling author of Monster Hunter International!

All Oz Carnavon ever wanted was to become a master mage.


Except, to do so requires the natural gifts or wealth necessary to secure an appointment to one of the prestigious magical academies in the Core City at the center of the seven realms. Oz had neither.

He was born without magical talent, serving in the elemental plane of fire, a nightmarish hellscape of treacherous lava and vicious monsters, where life is cheap, and escape is rare. But Carnavons never give up.

When Oz fakes his death to get out of his family’s contract and crosses the Nexus gate to sneak into the Core, everything seems to be going according to plan… Until he gets blamed for an assassination attempt on the fire realm’s ambassador.

Now, Oz must become a fugitive in a vast magical city, while trying to earn a place among the magical academies which have nothing but disdain for his kind.

And the clock is ticking, because in one week, the most dangerous wizard in the realm of fire is coming to track him down and drag him back to hell.

Experience this epic new saga from LARRY CORREIA, award-winning author of Monster Hunter International and Saga of the Forgotten Warrior. This progression fantasy epic features a D&D-inspired setting split by portals into elemental realms, slow-growth power progression, magic academies, and unforgettable characters!

The Review

This was such a robust and detailed read. The author perfectly captured the various settings of this universe, from the gritty and fiery world of Fogo to the Core and beyond. The book expertly infused elements of classism and the balance that is so hard to maintain between wanting to pursue one’s dreams without sacrificing the family and /or home that a person came from into the themes of this narrative, giving the protagonist and the band of other characters who join him on his quest the heart and depth needed to provide their goals a unique and heartfelt emotional pull.

The balance of magic and action was terrific to see come to life on the page, as was the magical system that the author explored. Yet it was the world-building that really captured this world so effortlessly. The wealth of mystical and fantasy characters — from mages and wizards to orcs, gnomes, and more — populated this universe in a way that felt natural and compelling. In contrast, the multidimensional travel and the way those dimensions represented how different classes of people were divided were both fascinating and cut to the heart of many similar issues faced in our world, keeping readers engaged in the story.

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The Verdict

Thrilling, compelling, and entertaining, author Larry Correia’s “Academy of Outcasts” is a must-read fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new fantasy series. The twists and turns of the narrative, from the heartbreaking circumstances that shape the protagonist’s motivations in the beginning of the novel to the fight for survival and recognition in a universe that seems determined to leave them behind, and so much more, made this novel atmospheric and engaging. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Larry Correia is the New York Times bestselling author of twenty-five novels. He’s best known for his Monster Hunter International urban fantasy series, the Saga of the Forgotten Warrior epic fantasy series, the Grimnoir Chronicles alternate history trilogy, the Dead Six military thrillers, and the sci-fi Gun Runner. He’s also written over sixty pieces of shorter fiction, many of which are included in his Target Rich Environment collections, and he has edited three anthologies.. He lives in Yard Moose Mountain, Utah with his wife, children, and fearsome Krasnovian Waffle Hound.

https://monsterhunternation.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/academy-of-outcasts-larry-correia/1146889384?ean=9781638493037

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All We Keep Hidden by Kristen Martin 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 karmic vigilante finds herself the prime suspect in a murder investigation and must unravel her past lives and the dark secrets hidden within in author Kristen Martin’s “All We Keep Hidden.”

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The Synopsis

A gripping urban fantasy from International Amazon Bestselling Author Kristen Martin where magic collides with modern life, unleashing danger, destiny, and an anti-heroine you won’t forget.

What if the concept of karma wasn’t just wishful thinking, but an actual duty that’s guaranteed to be fulfilled?

For 30-year-old Maren Cordeau, it is. Having been through multiple incarnations and a daunting number of past lives, she’s finally landed among the ranks of the Noires—karmic vigilantes who carry out the eternal sentences of those who have ultimately chosen to “sell their soul”, be it for riches, fame, power, or something much, much darker. It’s no surprise that invoking nightmares to carry out said sentences has become one of her favorite pastimes… How could it not when she’s exacting justice for the innocent and defenseless?

Such a dangerous role requires the protection of a Sigard, assigned to all Noires at the time of incarnation. It’s a shame it’s Brant Colborn, her rival from previous lifetimes; but, regardless of their blatant animosity toward one another, they always find a way to work together—and actually grow to do a little more than tolerate each other this time around. But when Maren receives her next assignment, a trip into the underbelly of the shopping district to gather supplies turns into a nightmare of her own—her go-to shopkeeper, the Elder Witch of a coven, turns up murdered, in which she’s the number one suspect.

With so many things working against her, Maren can’t help but wonder if this is her own twisted rendition of karma playing itself out. But, as she revisits past lifetimes, what she discovers is much more than she’d bargained for… and could alter the very fabric of reality of years past and subsequent years to come.

The Review

This has been one of my anticipated reads of 2025, and I was not disappointed. The first thing that strikes the reader when delving into this narrative is just how atmospheric and haunting the world the author has built is, while also bringing a great sense of imagery to the writing itself, transporting readers into each visceral scene. There was one scene that offhandedly described a character’s movements and actions in a manner reminiscent of those of Harley Quinn from DC Comics. Immediately, I was able to picture the scene in my mind, and this happened frequently throughout the novel.

The character development and rich mythology were the standout features of this story. The chemistry between Brant and Maren both created the heat one would expect from an adult dark fantasy novel, while also adding to the tension and tone of the narrative that hangs in the air as Maren explores how deep their connection goes. While I love the exploration of various gods and magic from different cultures and mythologies, what stood out to me was the metaphysical aspect of the story, particularly the concept of past lives and the idea that we shape reality at all times. This thought process has been a driving force in much of my paranormal and metaphysical research, and seeing it so effortlessly tied into this plot and explored with nuance and care was a great literary device the author implemented in this work.

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The Verdict

With reflections of humor in the dialogue, emotional connection with the characters, and an outstanding balance of mystery, intrigue, and passion, author Kristen Martin’s “All We Keep Hidden” is a must-read dark fantasy novel that fits well into the upcoming spooky season, and a contender for Best Dark Fantasy Novel of 2025! The protagonist and the mythos the author creates were intriguing, and I instantly became invested in the story. The twists that unfold in the novel’s climax, along with the open ending of the story, bring both closure to the narrative and leave enough room for readers to crave more of these incredible characters and this world overall. If you haven’t already, be sure to grab your copy on October 7, 2025, or preorder it today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

KRISTEN MARTIN is the International Amazon Bestselling Indie Author of THE ALPHA DRIVE trilogy and SHADOW CROWN series, the standalone novel BEYOND THE STARS AND SHADOWS, as well as nonfiction works, SOULFLOW and BE YOUR OWN #GOALS. She is also a writing coach, a YouTuber, a podcaster, and a full-time creative entrepreneur. Living in Southeast Texas with her husband and their six kids, she loves all things young adult, science fiction, and fantasy.

Kristen prides herself on helping aspiring authors reach their dreams of publication through her coaching program, Valiance. She loves connecting with other writers and readers, so be sure to reach out!

Stay connected on:

Instagram @authorkristenmartin

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Pinterest @authorkristenm

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Heir of Flame and Shadow (Rings and Chains Book 2) 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 find new allies and heal a broken friendship as she faces her inner demons in author Ahlam Faris’s “Heir of Flame and Shadow”, the second book in the Rings and Chains series. 

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The Synopsis

The Chains are weakening—and what waits beneath was never meant to be freed.

After stealing the Royal family’s golden rings, Mina is pursued by the Royal guards. With no choice but to flee the kingdom, she finds herself stranded in the southern desert.

Mina has lost far more than her home—haunted by a death she caused, a shattered friendship, and her guardian spirit seeming to be weaker than ever. Now, she must confront her inner demon alone.

In Heir of Flame and Shadow, Mina discovers new allies, faces old enemies, and attempts to heal a broken friendship that could become something deeper. But sinister forces have been guiding her steps all along—are they allies or enemies in disguise?

The Review

The world-building and mythology were so incredible that I became wholly immersed in this world. The reader is truly thrust into this world, with the unforgiving and gritty tone that the beginning of this story brings, along with the cruel desert setting and the troubled way many treat the protagonist due to signs pointing to her association with Jinn, making this world feel both dangerous and heavy in lore and magic. The imagery that the author’s writing conjures is as powerful as the Jinn that are discovered early on in the narrative, and the expansion upon the mythology that speaks to both the main characters’ origins and the world that existed beyond the Veil was terrific to see come to life on the page.

What stood out to readers, though, was not just this mythos, but the heavy themes the author explores and the emotional connection readers will have with the protagonist and this cast of characters. Themes of identity, as the protagonist grapples with the duality of her power and her mysterious past, as well as themes of grief, loss, and regret, all play a beautiful symphony on the page, as readers become lost in the overwhelming nature of the protagonist’s struggles. The emotional rollercoaster readers go on with her, and the way it elevates the action and suspense of this story will keep readers invested as the story progresses.

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The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Ahlam Faris’s “Heir of Flame and Shadow” is a worthy addition to the Rings and Chains series and a must-read fantasy thriller. The twists and turns in the story, along with the shocking revelations about the protagonist’s origins and the villain she must soon face, will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eager for the next installment 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

Ahlam Faris is an award-winning fantasy author known for crafting immersive worlds filled with magic, intrigue, and powerful characters. Her debut novel, Daughter of Light and Dark, received critical acclaim and won the 2024 Reviewers’ Choice Award from Book Nerdection.

https://ahlamfaris.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/heir-of-flame-and-shadow-ahlam-faris/1148136375?ean=9782918764250

https://amzn.to/3IsYoOM

Blood and Flame: The Quinate’s Faithful Book One by Brendan Corbett 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. 

Two women from vastly different backgrounds must work together to discover the truth behind their shared beliefs in a dangerous race to stand up for what is right in author Brendan Corbett’s “Blood and Flame”, the first book in The Quinate’s Faithful series.

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The Synopsis

Two young women from vastly different worlds.

A magical quest that will test all that they believe.

Beneath the shroud of darkness, two Initiates await their future. Both seek the same-to undergo the Rite of the Faithful and become Mages in the Quinarium.

For Dara, becoming a Blood Mage is a way to flee poverty and leave her past behind, while Wynne’s desire to be a Flame Mage means rebelling against her family’s wishes and turning her back on her wealth and status.

Paired together to perform their unusual rite, they must stop the mysterious slaughter of a village’s livestock and investigate rumors of an impossible source of mana, the fuel used for magic.

Their quest sends them on a fantastical journey across the world of Llendshold, from dangerous Fae forests, across treacherous waters, and deep underground into a dwarf city.

In seeking answers, their loyalty to the Quinarium is shaken to breaking point. Nor can they ignore the power of their growing bond.

But if they stand up for what is right and embrace the truth, will it mean losing all that they hoped for?

Blood and Flame is Book One in The Quinate’s Faithful, a fantasy trilogy filled with magic, action-packed adventures, and a touch of slow-burn romance.

The Review

This was such a compelling and gripping fantasy read. The author brilliantly expands on this mystical world of fae and ogres, as well as many other creatures, while also showcasing the powerful magic that fuels this adventure. The worldbuilding was top-notch, really emphasizing the different classes of mage and the different approaches to magic that they embody. This also helped fuel the character arcs of this narrative, as the more ruthless blood mages often clashed with the healing and light fire mages. Yet, the book offers great LGBTQ representation through protagonists Dara and Wynn. Their journey does a fantastic job not only of allowing them to see one another but also of bringing them closer together as a result.

The themes explored in this book offer a unique perspective on the fantasy genre, as they examine what happens when organized religious institutions co-opt a particular faith, forcing those driven by faith to question who they follow and why. The slow-burning storytelling and time to explore every faction of this world helped elevate the strength of this religion and its profound impact on the world.

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The Verdict

Thrilling, entertaining, and mesmerizing, author Brendan Corbett’s “Blood and Flame” is a must-read fantasy novel and a grand entry in the Quinate’s Faithful series. The twists and turns that this story takes, the balance of religious undertones, and the relatability and passion for these two protagonists and the cast of characters they encounter will leave readers breathless, as the cliffhanger ending keeps them eager for the next installment 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

Brendan Corbett grew up in a military family, always on the move. Books, particularly fantasy, were both stabilizing and the ultimate escape, companions to other worlds that could journey with him even when friends could not. As an adult his career turned away from the arts, though a wide range of experiences have brought him back to his love of writing. He now resides in Oregon with his wife, son, dog and two kittens. While writing consumes much of his time, you might also find him at one of his ridiculous list of hobbies, including cooking, gardening, hiking, gaming, archery, volunteering, and woodworking.

https://authorbrendancorbett.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blood-and-flame-brendan-corbett/1147260503?ean=9798990189973

https://amzn.to/4gI6way

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