Tag: mythology

OUTSIDE THE THALSPARR SERIES BY BJORN LEESON RECAP

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

Hello there,

I am so thrilled to be able to share this unique book series recap for author Bjorn Leesson’s “Outside the Thalsparr” series. The series is a fantastic historical fiction meets fantasy series that transcends time and space itself. Below you will find a synopsis of each book in the series thus far, as well as my initial thoughts of the books and links to my full reviews of each book, as well as a preview of the latest book in the series. I hope you will take the time to read these books and enjoy the sprawling adventure they created the way they did for me. Please enjoy.

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Runes of Dokkrsdottir (Book One)

The Synopsis

The Dokkrsdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age. One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny, one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

RUNES OF THE DOKKRSDOTTIR (Book 1)

The story of Myrgjol the Dokkrsdottir begins with her birth in 800s Scandinavia where it becomes immediately obvious that she is very different in so many ways.

After adventures abroad and continuously making friends and loyal allies, and after suffering many losses and setbacks, she bravely travels the many winding paths of her destiny – facing and defeating a dark foe she never expected to face.

My Impression

FULL REVIEW

This was such a compelling and gripping read. The rich blend of historical fiction meets fantasy and the immersive way the author uses imagery draws the reader into the sea-faring settings of this novel, making the world-building feel larger than life on the page. The author’s use of mythology and detail in the narrative allows the reader to feel transported back to the Viking age, keeping the reader invested in the story.

Yet, it was the dynamic development of the protagonist that fueled this story. The rich and thoughtful detail that went into the protagonist’s backstory, from the tragic circumstances that brought her father over to live amongst the Norse people as a child to the tragedies she faces and the supernatural prophecy that hung over her head as she spent her life struggling to balance the light and darkness within her, made her character arc and journey so much more impactful and engaging.

RUNE OF RENEWAL (BOOK TWO)

THE SYNOPSIS 

The Dokkrsdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age. One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny, one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

RUNE OF RENEWAL (Book 2)

The story of the Dokkrsdottir continues in a strange new time and place finding her out of her familiar world, but the pressure on her to continue as one of the greatest warriors ever increases as the stakes are now world wide and on a grander scale than she could ever have imagined.

However, through the foresight and dedication of many of her descendants, she has the diehard support of friends and family to see her through to her destiny of thwarting the plans of the Dark.

MY IMPRESSION

FULL REVIEW

The world-building and mythos that the author establishes in this series are amplified greatly in this sequel. The exploration of the time travel element is also amplified in this book, bringing the protagonist into one of human history’s darkest times, WWII. The development of the Dark and its forces and the suspense that forms with each step that Dokkrsdottir takes on her journey makes this a compelling story.

This story’s character development and action were the true highlights of the narrative. The rich development of the protagonist as she continues to engage with new allies and descendants and the out-of-this-world action, including one major battle that changes the entire landscape of the series, create a rich and dynamic story that will instantly draw the reader in.

RUNE OF DESTINY (BOOK THREE)

THE SYNOPSIS 

The Dokkrsdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age. One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny, one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

Rune of Destiny Summary:

The final chapter of the main story of the Dokkrsdottir’s destiny that finds the continuation of the living world in the hands of Myrgjol, her descendants, and the choices they all must make.

With battles of the “greatest warrrior” transpiring on both sides of the veil, it is a series of desperate and grueling battles to the very end before she can enjoy her reward with the knowledge that the living world will continue in the loving embrace of the Light and not in ruin by the Dark.

MY IMPRESSION

FULL REVIEW

The scale and engaging setting stood out in this story. The author did an incredible job of bringing both the physical and spiritual worlds to life on the page, showcasing the imagery in the author’s writing as they shifted between the jumps in periods and showcased Dokkrsdottir’s life on the other side of the veil. The balance of threats that the protagonists faced was excellent as well, as the human threats perfectly paralleled the different forces of darkness that pursued them, especially the Thule Society and their hunt for gateways around the world.

While the series has become known for some great action, this novel added more depth to the spiritual nature of the narrative os well. The world knows the protagonist in this story as a proud and strong warrior. Still, the novel takes the time to reveal those vulnerable moments that the protagonist experiences, from being reunited with lost loved ones to making peace with being separated from others she loves in her family, and much more. The mythos and culture of Viking history were well represented here. The protagonist’s connection to her family, loved ones, and people allowed the reader to connect to the story on a much grander scale.

RUNE OF REVENGE (BOOK FOUR)

THE SYNOPSIS 

The legendary saga of Ingrid Stone-Splitter, the most loyal and greatest friend of the Dokkrsdottir, after returning home amid strife and loss.

A powerful woman of many destinies, Ingrid embarks on journey after journey to fulfill the peaceful promises of her father

Harald, to help set the stage for the Dokkrsdottir to fulfill her destiny, and to be a hammer which smashes the Dark.

MY IMPRESSION

FULL REVIEW

Another compelling and exhilarating historical fiction meets supernatural thriller. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the tone and the atmosphere of life in the Viking Age, especially during an age when Vikings expanded into Saxon territory and blended this with Norse mythology perfectly, making the supernatural and fantasy elements feel natural to the world around the characters. 

The heart of the narrative was in the new protagonist, exploring a strong supporting character in the series and giving a free perspective to the legend and destiny of the Dokkrsdottir overall. The personal nature of Ingrid’s journey and how it ties into the cliffhanger finale from the last book will keep longtime fans of this series invested and thrilled to be in the thick of the action. 

RUNE OF WHISPERS (BOOK FIVE)

THE SYNOPSIS

Myrgjol the Dokkrsdottir’s path may be fraught with physical dangers and battle, but some wars are fought with whispered words and deceitful lies. While in Saxon lands, she must learn to maneuver the battlefield as well as her position on the board in the game of Saxon politics. Will she be successful?

And though she is blind to all the pieces in The Game, a Saxon gamemaster plays on her behalf as well as his own against many others, and the enormity of the risk spirals out of control for everyone.

MY IMPRESSION

FULL REVIEW

This was a welcome addition to the historical fiction and dark fantasy series! The author found a way to keep the series fresh and showcased the depth of the world this series inhabits, giving readers a fresh new perspective by exploring the politics of Saxon life and Myrgjol’s impact on that world. The way the action takes a backseat to the atmosphere and the tension politics played at that time made the overall narrative feel elevated for readers. 

The mystery and intrigue this turn of events took in the story was evenly matched by the rich historical context and fantasy mythos the series has brought to life so vividly. The more emotional context of the protagonist’s story felt fully realized in this narrative, and the evolution of her allies and how life in Saxon lands evolved among some of the Norse settlers at that time was an intriguing subplot that readers will instantly get lost in.

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PREVIEW (RUNE OF SPIRITS: OUTSIDE THE THALSPARR BOOK SIX)

THE SYNOPSIS

OUTSIDETHETHALSPARR

The Dokkrisdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age.One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny ,one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

RUNEOFSPIRITS

Every road to an ultimate good is paved with monstrous deed…by a monster. Sometimes the monsters are all that stands between the living world and annihilation. In the struggle to survive her own life ,Josephine Peele becomes the monster in service of the Light, but it takes all her torments to ready her for her own purpose that only she can accomplish.

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OVERALL SERIES IMPRESSION

A perfect balance of historical fiction and fantasy thriller, the author delves deep into Norse mythology and the concepts of life after death with strong conviction. The series not only explores Norse mythology, but the impact that a legacy can have on generations to come and history itself. The infusion of strong supporting characters that can lead their own books and bringing the protagonist not only into different timelines but different worlds altogether establishes a sense of legendary status and adds new depth to the theme of the hero’s journey that has become so ingrained into the fabric of our culture throughout human history. Filled with action, heart, and destiny, this is a rich historical fiction fantasy series that reader will not be able to get enough of. 

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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Facebook /authorkristenmartin

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

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Interview with Author Stephen Statler

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

I went to film school at NYU.  I worked with a screenwriting partner for many years but we were never able to make money at it. We still have representation and a script under option, so hope springs eternal. Recently, both of us have turned to fiction. I started by writing short funny pieces for McSweeney’s and other magazines and then decided to try my hand at a novel.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I was looking for an entertaining way to write about the social contract: How is it that we all manage to co-exist (for the most part) without letting our self-interest and instinct for pleasure completely govern us?

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

It’s possible to live both pleasurably and morally. Not easy, but possible.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

Once I decided to use Dionysus as the representation of pleasure and self-interest, I knew that I would have something of a fantasy book on my hand.  But I also knew that the book wouldn’t be a straight fantasy, and that the Greek god stuff would constitute just a sprinkling of magic in an otherwise mundane suburban comedy.

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

I would ask Dionysus why he has so much trouble controlling his impulse for chaos, and whether it’s because the Universe is actually chaotic and he’s trying to show us that truth by example.

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

Probably Facebook.  I got a lot of support from old friends when I debuted the book.

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

Write something every day. If nothing else, just sit down and do some automatic writing. Type anything that comes off your fingers, without thinking, without stopping, for ten minutes. It’s like stretching before exercising. Everything you write after that will be better for it.

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

I just finished the text for a children’s book called “Sadie and Truman,” and am working on a new novel as well as some more short comedy pieces.

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About the Author

Stephen Statler is a comedy writer whose work has appeared in McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, Points in Case, and other magazines. The Breathing Show, a feature film he wrote and directed, was distributed by Film Threat. A screenplay, Big Time, co-authored with Mouncey Ferguson, is currently under option by Gulfstream Pictures. Statler lives in the Bay Area with his wife and two children.

stephenstatler.com

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My Land, My Nile by Maria Zeinab 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 queen dredges up the past as a young woman must discover her origins and her destiny in author Maria Zeinab’s “My Land, My Nile.”

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The Synopsis

For centuries, the river has witnessed kingdoms rise and fall, heroes crowned and crushed. From the golden days of the 10th century to the fading edges of 1970s Sudan, the Nile has held its secrets until now.

Born of two bloodlines Nubian and Abyssinian young Nabra-Isat carries a legacy she doesn’t yet understand. When tragedy strikes, her enigmatic uncle Bantus, a modern-day Kushite king, whisks her away from the only home she’s ever known to the quiet corridors of Geneva.

Before she leaves, a mysterious woman named Tamaya Sufra, with ties to the sacred Nile crocodiles, gives Nabra a gift relic of her past, and a promise:

“You, my child, were born by the Nubian Lake. And you will return. You are the fire rising from the water.”

But the river has all the ancestral stories stored, and picks one in particular that follows Nabra. The story of Queen Gudith-Isat.

Now, as the queen begins to stir the past, Nabra must uncover who she is and what she was born to reclaim.

The Review

This was such a rich and compelling book of mythology, history, and culture. The interwoven stories in this novel mesh together so seamlessly, and the author’s emphasis on Nubian culture and mythology, especially the sacred nature of the crocodiles to the people of that region, was both fascinating and engaging as a reader. The imagery and atmosphere the author brought to life on the page were so artistic and creative, and allowed the reader to feel transported across time and legends through the ancestral lands in which this novel takes place.

The powerful themes the author brought to life in this book, as well as the rich character dynamics and growth the narrative takes, make this a thrilling book to delve into. The author manages to awaken the reader’s senses powerfully with the detail that went into depicting each chapter, with the reader able to visualize colors and hear the tones that each scene brought to life. The way the story shifts between different eras and times and even mythological stories allowed the threads of fate to be clearly woven through these characters and make their arcs feel more pronounced and enthralling. In contrast, the exploration of loss, both of the people closest to us and the loss of land and identity, was profoundly felt throughout this expansive narrative.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Maria Zeinab’s “My Land, My Nile” is a must-read historical fiction, mythological, and drama-driven novel. The twists and turns the story takes, the detailed history and culture this story brought to life, and the balance of both the losses and the beauty found in this region of the world made such an impact on the reader that it will drive them to learn more about this area and the people who call it home. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on September 2nd, 2025 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Maria (Zeinab) is originally Nubian from the North of Sudan. She grew up between the Middle East and Europe. This diverse background gave her a broad perspective to draw from in storytelling.Her writing delves deeply into themes of identity, cultural displacement, and the sense of belonging.

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Gods of Glenhaven by Stephen Statler Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

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

A quiet suburban neighborhood turns into chaos when troublesome Greek gods move in to cause trouble in author Stephen Statler’s “Gods of Glenhaven.”

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The Synopsis

From comedy writer and McSweeney’s contributor Stephen Statler comes Gods of Glenhaven, a David Sedaris-meets-Tom Perotta, fast-paced, bighearted comedy about love, sex, death, and rock and roll–and everything that happens when our white-knuckle grip on life gets pried open against our will.

When Greek gods sweep into the quaint suburban town of Glenhaven to untangle their messy love lives, the helpless mortals don’t stand a chance.

Christian Orr, struggling with work and erectile dysfunction after discovering his wife’s infidelity, has just moved into what his daughter Francesca calls the Divorced Dads Apartment Complex. His high-powered attorney ex, Sloan, is jaded and restless, leaving precocious Francesca caught in the crosscurrents of change.

Enter Dionysus-“Dee”-the god of wine, sex, and questionable decisions, who shows up searching for his estranged wife Ari and their teenage son Maron. After three thousand years of Dee’s antics, Ari has had enough. She’s struck a deal with Zeus to start fresh-as a mortal suburban mom. And what’s more normal than falling for a regular guy like Christian? If only Dee would stop tearing through Glenhaven in his quest to win her back.

Drunk on Dee’s wine, the residents of Glenhaven form chanting covens in the woods, participate in ecstatic rituals, and experience divine revelations-all while Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love” loops faintly in the background of their lives.

Gods of Glenhaven is a hilarious, poignant, and confronting novel about the universal fears and follies of the human condition, and the joy and freedom we can experience by letting go.

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging mix of dark humor and mythological fantasy-driven narrative. The quick wit of the cast of characters stood out immediately, as did the way the author was able to infuse Greek gods and mythology into the story effortlessly. The way the author was able to bring laugh-out-loud suburban satire and humor that closely examines personal relationships with the madness and chaos that are often associated with the Greek gods was both hilarious and enthralling.

For every hilarious, funny piece of dialogue or ridiculous yet entertaining mythological event that took place in this story, there was an equally underlying emotional character development that played well into the idea of identity and love. The loss of a sense of self that Christian goes through, along with the disconnect Sloan feels with her daughter and the way the gods and their actions inadvertently help these individuals find themselves in the process, was a rewarding and thoughtful portrayal of modern relationships and personal development.

The Verdict

Memorable, hilarious, and entertaining, author Stephen Statler’s “Gods of Glenhaven” is a must-read dark humor and mythological fantasy narrative. The twists and turns the story takes, the dark satire that portrays life in the suburbs, and the heartfelt character development will keep readers invested in the book’s final pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Stephen Statler is a comedy writer whose work has appeared in McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, Points in Case, and other magazines. The Breathing Show, a feature film he wrote and directed, was distributed by Film Threat. A screenplay, Big Time, co-authored with Mouncey Ferguson, is currently under option by Gulfstream Pictures. Statler lives in the Bay Area with his wife and two children.

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The Secret of Ophiuchus (Enigma Book Three) by Kim Idynne 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 heroes makes their final journey into the underworld to find and save a young girl who may hold the key to unlocking the mysteries of the stars in author Kim Idynnes’ “The Secret of Ophiuchus”, the third book in the Enigma series. 

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The Synopsis

In the final installment of the Enigma series, Surina and Dominic descend into the tunnels of Wupatki to rescue Hannah Hale. Their plans are tripped up by an unexpected tagalong, and Surina is uneasy about Hannah’s sympathy for Tagua, a demon sorcerer of the underworld. Hannah assures them that they can return home if they set things right in the zodiac and learn the secret of Ophiuchus—but is she willing to return alone, or will she unwittingly release Tagua into their world?

The Review

This was a brilliant end to the Enigma trilogy. The author does such a great job of building upon the character-driven narratives and world-building established in the first two books, while also bringing in new perspectives and shifting evolutions for the characters themselves. The way the author can mesh together elements of multiple mythologies and belief systems, including Greek and Sumerian mythology, was inspired and so creatively done that it felt seamless and effortless on the page. 

The imagery in the book was so cosmic and did an excellent job of showcasing the stakes of the mission Hannah and her allies find themselves on. The twists that come with Hannah and Tagua throughout the story bring into the narrative an essential theme of exploring what happens when the heroes of old legends or history itself are revealed to have caused equal or even more damage in their wake, with perspective playing an integral role in the stories we tell one another and ourselves in the end.

The Verdict

Memorable, epic, and compelling, author Kim Idynne’s “The Secret of Ophiuchus” is a must-read fantasy-driven novel and a great end to the Enigma series. The twists and turns in the narrative, the rich character development, and shocking moments that will leave readers wanting more will stay with them long after the final page ends. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today or grab a copy on November 30th, 2025!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Kim Idynne is a Minneapolis-based writer and illustrator. She is the author of several novels for adults and young adults, and she has also published a variety of short fiction. Her first short story, “Meat,” was published in the February 2015 issue of Literary Mama; the following year, Idynne received a Silver Pen award for her story “Fungus.” Her artwork has been featured in journals, books, datebooks, and at galleries around the Twin Cities area. You can check out her work at idynne.com.

Author web site: https://idynne.com

Eridanus (Enigma: Book Two) by Kim Idynne 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. 

The search for a young girl in another realm brings in new allies and new challenges in author Kim Idynne’s “Eridanus”, the second book in the Enigma series.

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The Synopsis

In this sequel to Enigma, Dominic and Surina travel to a mountainous region of Peru in an attempt to enter the celestial realm. Their plans seem to go awry when Surina becomes trapped in the stars alone. Surina and Hannah team up to solve the puzzle of Orion, but in order to get there, they will have to travel the Eridanus: the longest and most enigma-ridden river of the underworld.

The Review

This was a grand entry in the Enigma series. The introduction of new characters and expansion upon the mythos the author built up in the first book of the series was great to see come to fruition in this narrative. The fast pace of the plot and the mysterious atmosphere the author layers throughout the story help create the necessary tension and action that drives both Surina and Hannah forward in their journey.

What stood out, though, was the character development that this narrative took forward. Surina was a great new protagonist to take the reins from Dominic for most of the plot, and the ways that the stars and this new reality begin to change Hannah slowly, and her perspective as she becomes lost in this reality, were heart-pounding and tense. The development of Wibben as a character was equally thrilling to see come to life on the page.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Kim Idynne’s “Eridanus” is an excellent entry in the Enigma series and a must-read fantasy-driven book. The twists and turns continue in this mystery-driven narrative, and the puzzles and enigmas themselves were thought-provoking and compelling as the story ends on another big cliffhanger that will drive readers to read book three easily. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Kim Idynne is a Minneapolis-based writer and illustrator. She is the author of several novels for adults and young adults, and she has also published a variety of short fiction. Her first short story, “Meat,” was published in the February 2015 issue of Literary Mama; the following year, Idynne received a Silver Pen award for her story “Fungus.” Her artwork has been featured in journals, books, datebooks, and at galleries around the Twin Cities area. You can check out her work at idynne.com.

Author web site: https://idynne.com

Enigma (The Enigma Trilogy Book 1) By Kim Idynne 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 must travel to the underworld to save a young girl from untold danger in author Kim Idynne’s “Enigma”, the first book in the Enigma Trilogy.

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The Synopsis

When twenty-one-year-old Dominic is persuaded to rescue a young girl from the underground tunnels of Wupatki, the two find themselves lost in a strange realm of celestial enigmas, riddles, and otherworldly creatures. When Dominic arrives in the land of the dead, the underworld queen offers him passage home on one condition: he can’t return as the person he was; he must leave parts of himself behind as he travels the underworld road. Hannah is eager to prove herself an expert at solving the zodiac’s mysteries, but failure will lead to self-destruction, and unlocking the gate may unleash a powerful demon on her own world. Enigma is the first book in a trilogy, followed by Eridanus and The Secret of Ophiuchus.

The Review

This was such a compelling first entry into the Enigma series. The author does a masterful job of crafting a narrative that feels imaginative and visceral at the same time. The world-building was the first element of the story that came to life on the page, with the reader immediately transported from the desert ruins found in Arizona to a world where time and reality don’t exist, at least in the way humanity has come to think of them. The imagery of the author’s writing style brought this to life so vividly.

The character development and mythos of the story were the two biggest draws for this first entry in the series. The beginning of both Dominic and Hannah’s stories is chaotic, both dealing with harsh realities from their pasts, and yet Dominic is more of a reluctant hero to begin with, having trouble accepting this new reality. At the same time, Hannah finds herself stepping up into a role she feels born into in many ways. The discovery of her importance to the stars and the connection between ancient mythology from differing cultures and astrology kept the reader invested in this novel and the characters’ well-rounded arcs. 

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, entertaining, and compelling, author Kim Idynne’s “Enigma” is a grand first entry in the Enigma series and a must-read fantasy-driven middle-grade book. The twists and turns in the story, the shocking revelations, and the cliffhanger finale will keep readers on the edge of their seats and eager for the next story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Kim Idynne is a Minneapolis-based writer and illustrator. She is the author of several novels for adults and young adults, and she has also published a variety of short fiction. Her first short story, “Meat,” was published in the February 2015 issue of Literary Mama; the following year, Idynne received a Silver Pen award for her story “Fungus.” Her artwork has been featured in journals, books, datebooks, and at galleries around the Twin Cities area. You can check out her work at idynne.com.

Author web site: https://idynne.com