Tag: metaphysical romance

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

YouTube /authorkristenmartinbooks

Facebook /authorkristenmartin

Pinterest @authorkristenm

https://www.kristenmartinbooks.com/

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Death at a Wedding by Marc Watson 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. 

Death himself attends his first wedding and must discover why rips in the fabric of time and space threaten to open up in author Marc Watson’s “Death at a Wedding,” the dark romantic comedy sequel to Death Dresses Poorly.

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The Synopsis

Death, the Grim Reaper himself, has received his first ever wedding invitation. Although perceived as an all-knowing, all-powerful being, he’s still clueless on how to act in public. That… and what to do about all the mysterious rips forming in time and space, threatening to consume all of existence.

But maybe, just maybe, Victoria can help him out with all of that before it’s too late.

In this unexpectedly dark romantic comedy sequel to Death Dresses Poorly, Ethan will come face to face with new love, old loss, completely average hamburgers, and finding out exactly what it takes to finally be free.

The Review

This was such a powerful and memorable read. The author brilliantly captured the emotional and philosophical aspects of the act of “Death” while also giving the protagonist Ethan, aka Death, a unique personality and dark humor that played well with this cast of characters. What makes Ethan such a dynamic character is that we see him wrestle with the life he had before becoming Death, and what it means to be still human while also having this ultimate cosmic power. Seeing him struggle with guilt and self-doubt while coming to terms with significant, universal concepts was refreshing and engaging.

The heart of this story was not just the grand mythos surrounding death as a concept and character, but in the end, what it means to be human and how precious life is. Getting to see both Ethan and the people he meets as both his human self and his Death self wrestle with these deep and meaningful concepts while also having a deep seated humor, especially between himself and his sister Arlene, showcases the power of life in the everyday and the mundane, not just the cosmic nature of life itself.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, imaginative, and entertaining, author Marc Watson’s “Death at a Wedding” is a must-read contemporary fiction meets fantasy and metaphysical fiction book. The twists and turns in Ethan’s journey, the dark yet relatable humor, and the mind-bending concepts surrounding death will keep readers invested in this growing series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Hello, I’m Marc Watson, and I write stuff. I’m an author of genre fiction (primarily Fantasy and Science Fiction of all lengths). I began writing at the age of 15 with a pen and paper, and I’ve never really stopped, even though until recently it was more of a background to me than my defining trait. I have been published on flash fiction site www.101words.org, as well as comedy site www.thecorrectness.com. I’ve been a student of the excellent writing classes at Athabasca University for a number of years.

I live in Calgary, Alberta, and was spawned out of the depths of Southern Ontario. I’m a husband, proud father of two, and can be sometimes found at an actual job. I’m an avid outdoorsman, martial artist of some high repute, baseball player of very little repute, and lover of all Mexican foods. One day ‘World Famous Poutine Aficionado’ will be on my business cards.

You can also find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/marcwroteabook, and on twitter at @writewatson. For public appearances and interviews, I am proudly represented by Creative Edge Publicity.

https://marcwatson.ca/

Letters from Lima by Shaun Randall 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 man struggling with depression and his divorce meets a woman desperate to find her mother’s treasured possessions and discovers a family secret that will take them both into the magic and mysticism of ancient Inkan culture and the culture of Peru in general in author Shaun Randall’s “Letters from Lima”.

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The Synopsis

Collin Allweather, a hard-drinking expat and Lima local, struggles to cope with his divorce and depression, but everything changes when he meets another Chicago native. Carolyn Grant, an ambitious young executive, barges into his life while searching for her grandmother’s treasured possessions. Her journey reveals a dark family secret and unleashes a chain reaction that transforms their lives forever.

Their search to uncover the truth takes them through the awe-inspiring natural wonders and incredible anthropology of Per. Letters From Lima engages with the spirituality and mysticism of ancient Inkan culture and demonstrates how the harsh realities of life weave into a tapestry of transformation.

“I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to friends and family. There is something in it for everyone-romance, mystery, death, traveling, and immersion in new and exciting situations and places.” -Maya S.

“I love the sense of humor both Collin and Carolyn have. Several of their conversations had me giggling from the witty banter.” -Haley H.

“I would absolutely recommend this book. I thought it was a joy to read; it was incredibly emotionally poignant and moving, and it was full of lifelike characters who came alive at every turn. I couldn’t tear myself away from it. Letters From Lima has a strong sense of place, and it’s rooted in Inkan and Peruvian culture in a way that makes it unlike other literature of its type. I also think it could appeal to a wide range of audiences. While it is in some ways a romance, it’s also a story of discovery, loss, grief, and love. It’s not women’s fiction; it’s a standout piece of literary fiction that deserves a spotlight. I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. I loved it!” -Quinn A.

Shaun Randall’s authorial voice in Letters From Lima is reminiscent of Marisha Pessl and her best-selling thriller Night Film. He shares an intricate grammatical kinship with Sue Grafton. In this work of literary fiction, Shaun’s expressive complexity and tonal quality harken to the award-winning Jodi Picoult and her #1 New York Times best-selling novel House Rules.

The Review

The author did an incredible job of layering this story with a rich culture and powerful imagery that really hit the reader early on. The setting of Peru was truly memorable, as the story found a natural way to explore the diverse culture and history of the land and its people through both a familial and a metaphysical lens. The emotional depth of this novel helps elevate the tone and atmosphere of the narrative, keeping the reader invested in the story overall.

To me, the heart of the novel rested on the shoulders of the two protagonists, Carolyn and Collin. The happenstance way they cross paths at such pivotal moments in their lives and the way they just instantly mesh with one another brought a heavy dose of romance and intrigue into the story and elevated the emotional journey that they go on as they deal with their respective backgrounds. 

The Verdict

Thoughtful, captivating, and engaging, author Shaun Randall’s “Letters to Lima” is a must-read metaphysical mystery and romance novel. The emotions and depth of culture and rich settings the story employs here will have readers hooked, and the connection between the two main characters helps drive this story forward in a way that draws the reader in further and further as it evolves. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Shaun Randall is originally from San Diego, California and spent time as an adolescent in Portland, Oregon; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and South Florida. Growing up in those settings, on the coasts and in the mountains, instilled a wonder and love for our natural world. In 2008, Shaun moved to Chicago, Illinois which has left an indelible mark on his life and work. In early March of 2020, Shaun took a vacation to Lima, Perú where the next chapter of his life began when he met his fiancé Eliet. They currently make their home together in Barranco, Perú.

Shaun Randall’s writing addresses the struggle to find inner peace and happiness amongst the trappings of modernity. Teaching and wisdom from ancient Latin American civilizations and eastern philosophies permeate his writing as he relates modern western experience with a dry sense of humor and zen master deadpan. Shaun uses an unorthodox approach to creating his phrases that challenge readers to think twice and sort through their emotions. To make sure they are deciding what to think and how to feel for themselves, in spite of the inundation of external influences on a minute-by-minute basis. Shaun Randall’s purpose is to help people enjoy their lives to the fullest by choosing their own path in lieu of the many offered by others, in this miraculously unreal thing we call reality.

Please visit www.shaun-randall.com to learn more about Shaun Randall.

For live appearances, podcast and television appearances, or more information email: info@shaun-randall.com

https://twitter.com/Shaun_Randall_

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BQN8KV7D/ref=x_gr_w_glide_sin?caller=Goodreads&callerLink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F74954199-letters-from-lima%3Fac%3D1%26from_search%3Dtrue%26qid%3DCSuVIdjnKq%26rank%3D1&tag=x_gr_w_glide_sin-20