Tag: urban fantasy

Kahuna: Vol. 1 – Tampa Bay by Brent A. Philips 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 magic-wielding hero must overcome his inner demons in order to stop a rising, ancient evil in author Brent A. Philips’s “Kahuna: Vol.1 – Tampa Bay”. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Vox Montague is no stranger to waking up hungover and naked. As the Kahuna of Tampa Bay, he juggles his role as a supernatural peacekeeper with drunken strip club shenanigans, money woes, and a relationship with his witch-babe of a girlfriend that requires even more patching than the pipes he works on at his plumbing company.

When an ancient evil resurfaces, it couldn’t have come at a worse time. Vox’s new powers are wonky, his emotions are on edge, and his Kahuna Council bosses are breathing down his neck. As the stakes ratchet up, can this impetuous magic-wielder conquer his inner demons so that he can protect Earth from the murderous, real-life ones?

With spectacular world-building, delicious raunch, and LMAO humor, if you like in-your-face action, epic quests, and flawed heroes, then you’ll love Brent A. Phillips’s tyrannosaurus-size urban fantasy.

The Review

This was one of the more mature, raunchy, action-packed fantasy reads. The balance of humor and grit that the author was able to infuse into the story and the descriptive nature of the writing style allowed the reader to feel engaged with this cast of characters right from the start. The way the author can weave together the magical side of this story with the real-world human elements makes this feel like a plausible and honest depiction of the world the author has crafted.

The heart of this story rests in the world-building, mythos, and character development. Immediately, what stood out was the protagonist, for Vox is a truly flawed hero. The magical nature of his work and the role he takes in this story meld with the realism of his character. The issues he faces as a person and in his personal relationships speak to the authenticity of this individual and make his heroics more profound when his character grows.

Happy Socks Updated Logo

The Verdict

Thrilling, engaging, and memorable author Brent A. Philips’s “Kahuna: Vol 1—Tampa Bay” is a must-read urban fantasy. The humor, mythology, and action balance out the realistic character development, making this a compelling and gripping story with a shocking series of twists and turns that will keep readers eager for the next entry in the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Brent A. Phillips is a Marketing AI Scientist, foodie, possum admirer, and Miami Hurricanes fan. He lives wherever his fifth wheel happens to be.

Home

Forbidden War (The Intern Diaries Book Three) by D.C. Gomez 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’s Intern must help keep the peace between vampires and elves during a tense negotiation as the threat of war looms over them all in author D.C. Gomez’s “Forbidden War,” the third book in The Intern Diaries series.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

A trip to hell. Angry Vampires. Seductive Elves. Oh my!

Do I honestly look like a mediator?

Let’s be honest. I can barely keep the peace between the boys, and they like each other.

Why would Death agree to send us to supervise a peace negotiation between vampires and elves, just because her egotistical brother, War, doesn’t want to do it?

We don’t even like vampires. If Constantine is correct, we barely tolerate each other due to our own messy peace negotiations. To make my life even more complicated, even my Godmother has a secret.

This is a huge catastrophe waiting to explode. Three days to find a princess or Texarkana becomes the site for WWIII. I really need a raise.

* Forbidden War is book three in the Urban Fantasy series The Intern Diaries. The stakes are higher for Isis Black as she meets another of Death’s siblings. The manipulative War is at it again, and dumping one giant mess on Isis and her friends.

***This is a stand-alone novel, or it can be read in sequence.

The Review

This is another fantastic entry into this phenomenal urban fantasy series. The author does an incredible job of further exploring the paranormal mythos of the characters’ world. The thing that always brings a bright spot to the story itself is the exploration of the Horsemen mythos, the relationship and differences between Death and her siblings, and how it impacts the paranormal world. 

The blend of humor in the characters’ dialogue and character development made this story shine. The witty banter between Isis and the other characters felt like the same charming humor found in shows like Supernatural back in the day. Exploring the relationship vampires have with other members of the paranormal community was mesmerizing to see come to life on the page. 

The Verdict

Memorable, high-octane, and hilariously adventurous author D.C. Gomez’s “Forbidden War” is a must-read urban fantasy. The exploration of how Death’s Interns work with the interns of other Horsemen and the way this book built upon the stories told in previous books while also working well as a standalone novel made this one book you won’t want to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

D. C. Gomez, is a fast-talking extra-quirky Dominican with a dark sense of humor.

She used to enjoy long walks at the park and all that fun outdoors activities; unfortunately, due to a mysterious condition she is now allergic to the sun.

Rumor has it, that her true nature is coming out and her vampirism is now showing. While hiding from the sun, she is busy writing action packed adventures full of quirky characters and zany plots. As well as hosting her podcast, Inside the Minds of Authors.

If you would like to learn more about her, or join her at an event, check out her website. We promise she doesn’t bite (much…).

Happy reading.

https://dcgomez-author.com

The Twin Flame (The Scottish Scrolls Book II) by K.T. Anglehart 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. 

Metallica The Master Collection Banners

A young woman embracing her growing powers must find a way to battle her destiny in author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame”, the second book in the Scottish Scrolls series. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Mckenna O’Dwyer knows she’s impulsive. Sometimes reckless. She also knows she’s a witch and keeps reincarnating as one, for reasons only her mother, Abby, can help her fully understand.

After weeks of searching, mother and daughter finally reunite—just as Elizabeth Dunlop’s prophecy states—and Abby is keen on helping Mckenna get a firm grasp on her abilities. She teaches her the proper way to channel elemental magic…but Mckenna soon discovers there’s a shortcut, something Cillian fully supports if it means getting quicker, more powerful results.

At first, Mckenna will do anything to thwart the High Priestess once and for all, before her powers are used to wipe out billions of souls. But the white horse Eachna’s devastating vision of Mother Nature continues to haunt her. Is that the future awaiting them if the Scottish Scrolls aren’t fulfilled?

Which is the lesser evil?

Enthralling, passionate, and with twists you won’t see coming, Mckenna’s magical education begins in book II of The Scottish Scrolls.

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

The Review 

The author has recaptured what made book one in the Scottish Scrolls series so beloved and upped the ante with more action and magic than ever before. While book one laid the foundation for this series, book two fully explores the larger magical and mythical universe and the protagonist’s growing powers. 

The vivid detail that went into the story, as well as the character dynamics and the fast-paced atmosphere, allowed for, at times, a harrowing yet compelling narrative. The thoughtful and creative approach to Celtic history and mythology was perfectly crafted. It was also great to see the back and forth of the protagonist and her mother in their growing relationship. 

Holiday Bundles

The Verdict 

Harrowing, adventurous, and mythological author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Twin Flame” is a must-read YA urban fantasy with a twist on supernatural storytelling. The stunning atmosphere captures the love so many have for the Celtic people’s history, culture, and mythos, and the twists in the story will keep readers breathless. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Katrina Tortorici Anglehart is an award-winning author from Montreal, with a multilingual prowess in English, French, Italian, and “Spanglish”. A dedicated academic, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a graduate certificate in Scriptwriting, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

Inspired by the wizarding world, the land of Narnia, and parallel planes, she penned The Wise One, inviting readers to connect with nature and its ever-present magic. Her exploration of the landscapes and folklore of Ireland and Scotland greatly influenced her debut YA urban fantasy, marking the inception of The Scottish Scrolls series.

K.T. Anglehart is a passionate advocate for bunnies, thanks to her late Netherland Dwarf, Magic—the inspiration behind her imprint, The Magic Dwarf Press. When she’s not writing or diving into magical reads, she revels in hiking, antiquing, and Netflix binges alongside her high school-sweetheart-turned-husband, Andy. They currently live in Toronto with their three pets: Nessie, a mysterious rescue dog from Puerto Rico, and their whimsical bunnies, Onyx and Stirling.

The Wise One (The Scottish Scrolls Book 1) K.T. Anglehart 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. 

Advertisements

A young woman discovers her hidden ancestry and connection to powerful magic that could lead her to her destiny…or lead her to darkness in author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Wise One”, the first book in The Scottish Scrolls series! 

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

The Synopsis

Mckenna’s never thought much of her nightmares, but on her seventeenth birthday, a vivid dream of burning at the stake awakens her dormant abilities, thrusting her into a world where faeries are real, spirits hold a grudge, and a High Priestess obsessed with a 16th-century prophecy is tracking her every move.

Now, her overprotective dads, Seán and Andre, are forced to tell her the truth—they know who her birth mother is, and her life is not the surrogate story she’s always been told. Abigail, Mckenna’s mom, is some sort of mystic, and Mckenna a Wise One.

Whatever the hell that means.

With the help of a persistent little wren and company of a newfound friend, Mckenna journeys to Ireland in search of her mother and real answers. Along the way, she learns to harness her innate magic and trust her intuition, as best she can anyway—Cillian, a kind and passionate delegate who crosses her path, is proving much harder to read.

Only her mother could truly help her halt her ill fate and prepare her for what’s to come . . . before she gives in to the darkness she knows is buried deep within.

Author K.T. Anglehart expertly weaves a story set in Ireland that is both timeless and unique, a perfect cross-market read for those searching for the next endearing urban fantasy classic.

Watermelon

The Review

This was a highly creative, inventive, and engaging new urban fantasy novel. The way the author is able to blend the Celtic mythos with modern-day New Age environmentalism was fascinating to see come to life on the page, as was the balance of teen angst with the emotional hardship that comes with a child learning their origins and the discovery of a parent they never knew existed. The imagery that the author’s writing style brought to life in this book allowed the Ireland setting to really thrive and flourish on the page, bringing the reader to this beautiful country.

The amazing character development with the thrilling magical storytelling really made this story thrive and develop naturally. The use of Celtic mythology that brought everything from fairies and spirits to magic wielders and ancient prophecies to life was an inspired choice and allowed the author to build a strong backstory to elevate the character development of the protagonist, as well as her fathers and the companions she brings along with way. 

The Verdict

Memorable, adrenaline-fueled, and entertaining, author K.T. Anglehart’s “The Wise One” is a must-read urban fantasy read and a great start to the “Scottish Scrolls” series! The twists and turns that this story takes, the unique setting (90s era Ireland), as well as the strong character development, allowed the magical and supernatural elements of the story to shine brightly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Katrina Tortorici Anglehart is an award-winning author from Montreal, with a multilingual prowess in English, French, Italian, and “Spanglish”. A dedicated academic, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a graduate certificate in Scriptwriting, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

Inspired by the wizarding world, the land of Narnia, and parallel planes, she penned The Wise One, inviting readers to connect with nature and its ever-present magic. Her exploration of the landscapes and folklore of Ireland and Scotland greatly influenced her debut YA urban fantasy, marking the inception of The Scottish Scrolls series.

K.T. Anglehart is a passionate advocate for bunnies, thanks to her late Netherland Dwarf, Magic—the inspiration behind her imprint, The Magic Dwarf Press. When she’s not writing or diving into magical reads, she revels in hiking, antiquing, and Netflix binges alongside her high school-sweetheart-turned-husband, Andy. They currently live in Toronto with their three pets: Nessie, a mysterious rescue dog from Puerto Rico, and their whimsical bunnies, Onyx and Stirling.

Lost Blades (Blades of the Goddess Book 1) by Liz Sauco 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 men from different worlds are drawn together and caught in a battle far more ancient and deadly than they could ever imagine in author Liz Sauco’s “Lost Blades”, the first book in the Blades of the Goddess Series.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

As the world ends once more, the Goddess chooses who she will wield against Abomination

In Lyndiniam: A street thief attempts a heist far more ambitious than anything he has done before, but due to circumstances outside his control, finds himself locked up for crimes he both did and did not commit. A strange woman with abilities Jamirh does not understand breaks him out, and he finds himself on the run – fleeing to Romanii, a country he thought no longer existed.

In Ni Fon: A shinobi is banished by the Empress for killing her daughter and his fiancée, Princess Hotaru. This is a ploy, however – Takeshi is still working for Ni Fon despite the murder, trying to learn information about a rebellion against the Rose Empire that Ni Fon will be able to leverage to regain their own freedom.

Though thousands of miles apart, both Jamirh and Takeshi find themselves pulled into an ancient struggle between forces far beyond anything they have ever dreamed of, whether they want to be or not.

Lost Blades is the first book in Blades of the Goddess, a high fantasy series with urban and sci-fi elements. This series will appeal to all ages, especially fans of the Shannara Chronicles, the Chronicles of Amber, and the Heralds of Valdemar.

ABN Banner

The Review

This was such a compelling and exhilarating read. The author did an incredible job of creating a rich and vastly developed fantasy world. The detail the author went into when developing these lands and the scenes in each chapter really made the action and character interactions that developed feel much more vivid and alive on the page.

To me, the heart of this narrative rested in the dynamic character development and incredible mythology the author developed. The way the author was able to infuse so many elements of sci-fi, high fantasy, and urban fantasy all at once made this book so gripping in its delivery. The various cultures and backgrounds that these characters come from and the way each protagonist plays into this ancient battle of wills will instantly draw the reader into the story.

The Verdict 

Memorable, entertaining, and enthralling, author Liz Sauco’s “Lost Blades is a must-read high fantasy novel of 2023. The chilling yet engaging nature of the larger elements of destiny and fate that play into the character’s journey and the incredible depth of world-building and mythos that made this world feel alive and new all at once will have readers eager for the next entry in this brand new fantasy series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on September 12th, 2023!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

I’ve always loved stories. The more fantastical, the better. Unicorns were an early favorite of mine; I must have watched The Last Unicorn a thousand times as a child, driving my parents to near insanity. I devoured every book I could get my hands on – trips to Barnes and Noble were hotly anticipated.

Anime (thanks, Toonami!) and video games were other favorites. I watched Sailor Moon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Gundam Wing, played Zelda and Mario. Mythology also grabbed me, made me think of how other cultures viewed the world.

And eventually… I began telling my own stories. I’m grateful to have found readers like you who want to explore the world I’ve created, and walk a few miles with the characters I love. Thank you!

https://www.lizsauco.com/

Recruited (The Elisha & Elijah Chronicles Book 1) by DC Gomez 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.

In a dystopian future in which the world has been ravaged by a war between mankind and witches, and subsequently a zombie outbreak, one witch must take on a deadly assignment to find a potential cure for humanity in author DC Gomez’s “Recruited”, the first book in The Elisha & Elijah Chronicles. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Zombies. Necromancer-Kitty. How can a witch be bored with this combination?

Nobody knows who did the most damage, the witches or the humans. But the results are the same, the world is destroyed. The war made it easier for the spread of the virus, and even more zombies now roam the world.

With the war over, Elisha enjoys her quiet life watching her familiar control zombies for landscaping duties. Yeah, she is truly bored to death.

It’s no wonder, when her mortal enemies knocked at her door with a job offer she is willing to entertain it. Curiosity can be deadly, even to a powerful witch. But is Elisha ready to follow this mission through?

* Recruited is book one in the Urban Fantasy/ Post-apocalyptic Series The Elisha & Elijah Chronicles. Recruited takes us sixty-five years in the future where a terrible plague follow by an even more destructive war has left the world in shambles. Now with a potential cure to save the human race, the only one they can turn to is their own nemesis.

The Review

This was definitely one of the most unique twists on a zombie apocalypse tale with a magical dystopian setting. The rich world-building and fast pace of the novel really immerse the reader into this setting, and the pacing also allows for more action to take place which establishes the protagonist’s strength and heroism. The tension between the humans and witches is palpable, as the opening chapter of the book explores the chilling nature of the war and the animosity that still exists between them.

The character development and witty banter of the characters made this novel what it is today. The story allows Elisha as a character to shine, not only revealing her gifts but her humorous attitude with her ally Elijah and the people she meets on the way. The power of the character’s arc is something that is both fun and engaging, allowing the reader to instantly get lost in Elisha’s world with ease.

The Verdict

Action-packed, fast-paced, and entertaining, author DC Gomez’s “Recruited” is a must-read dystopian fantasy and sci-fi novel that will keep readers enthralled as the story progresses. With a cliffhanger ending and a brilliant balance found between the magic of the witches and the mythological background, the author taps into, this is one fantastic read you won’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

D. C. Gomez, is a fast-talking extra-quirky Dominican with a dark sense of humor.

She used to enjoy long walks at the park and all that fun outdoors activities; unfortunately, due to a mysterious condition she is now allergic to the sun.

Rumor has it, that her true nature is coming out and her vampirism is now showing. If you would like to learn more about her, or join her at an event, check out her website at dcgomez-author.com. We promise she doesn’t bite (much…).

Eamon: Book 1 from Queen of the Flightless Dragons by Martha Carr 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 running a taco truck discovers a world of magick and dragons and must fight interdimensional demonic entities to save the world in author Martha Carr’s upcoming Kickstarter novel, “Eamon: Book 1 from Queen of the Flightless Dragons”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

A girl in a taco truck who finds some dragons & fights interdimensional demons in Austin, Texas.

Bookbaby.com helps independent authors bring their creative vision to the marketplace. Sell eBooks online in the biggest retail stores.

The Review

This was a unique opportunity for me as a reviewer, as not only is this book not released yet, it’s not even available for preorder yet. The author has an upcoming Kickstarter starting for this book, and let me just say, readers, are not going to want to miss out on their opportunity to support this book.

This book had everything that fans of urban fantasy, sci-fi, and epic fantasy could ever ask for. Dark magic assassins, inter-dimensional prison systems, family drama, and of course dragons. The rich mythology and world-building that the author built was so fun to read, as the author honed in on this wonderful balance of real-world settings and daily life with out-of-this-world fantasy storytelling and classic tropes in the genre like the hidden world within the world. 

For me, the heart of this book rested in the character development the author had and the rich mythology that was developed. The wit and charm of protagonist Willow and the family history and drama with her grandfather and mother were great to get lost in, as were the politics and drama within the magic community such as magical “borrowers” and the distrust that exists within their world. These seemingly small yet powerful character traits and moments made the larger-than-life threats and forces that they faced more connected for readers to enjoy.

The Verdict

If Guardians of the Galaxy or Star Wars were to mesh with The Magicians and The Witcher, you would be left with “Eamon: Book 1 of the Flightless Dragons” by Martha Carr. The twists and turns in the narrative and open-ended ending will have readers eager for more from the author and this new fantasy series, and the blend of humor and dark gritty magical storytelling made this a compelling read, so be sure to sign up for the upcoming Kickstarter for this amazing book and help support a brand new fantasy series you won’t be able to put down. 

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

I started writing at 30 years old with a newborn and a fresh divorce. I had tried everything the way my family wanted me to do it – and I saw where that got me. I was a successful stockbroker who dreaded every day of work. I just couldn’t picture myself still in that chair at 60. Well… Here I am at 63 and boy, am I glad I walked away.


Sure, the money was tight for a long time but when I look back at the past 33 years here’s what I see: Stringer for the Washington Post, national columnist with 4 million readers a month, contributor to almost every major news outlet, co-creator of the Oriceran Universe, author of best-selling UF series, The Leira Chronicles – and now a newbie on Kickstarter with a great book. Like I said, this book is for all of us who find the courage to just be ourselves on any given day and want to make the most of it. Over and over again. More adventures to follow.

https://marthacarr.com/

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/marthacarr/eamon-book-1-from-queen-of-the-flightless-dragons

The Traitor (The Order’s Assassin Series Book Two) by D.C. Gomez 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.

The search for a traitor and the culprit behind a deadly attack will bring back together two assassins from separate orders as they stand between the all-out war in author D.C. Gomez’s “The Traitor”, the second book in The Order’s Assassin Series. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Witches, Demons, and Shifters are all landing in Salem. But who do you trust?

Eric’s search for Rafael, the Order’s betrayer, is leading to a dead end. Running out of time, he decides to enlist the help of some old acquaintances in Salem’s underground.

In the meantime, the Garcia Clan, the deadliest of all the shifter assassin families in the world, has been attacked. Tensions are rising as Sasha is forced back on the field to investigate and bring the culprit to justice.

With both the Order of Witches and the Garcia Clan searching for the truth, Eric and Sasha are the only ones standing between a full-on blood bath.

* The Traitor is book two in the Urban Fantasy Series The Order’s Assassin. Our favorite witch and former cop, Eric from the Intern Diaries Series, has a new job with the Order of Witches. With no way out, he must continue his mission to clean out the Order, before he is the one hunted down.

The Review

This was a rich and dynamic fantasy world the author has crafted. As a reader who comes into this series after having read the Intern Diaries, the series set before this one, I was already enthralled with the author’s ability to craft memorable narratives that skirted both the YA and NA genres. The way the author is able to build upon the world she has helped craft and infuse it with even more magic and mystery was great to see. The tension in the atmosphere of this book underscores the importance of the missions each protagonist is forced to undergo and allows the striking tone of the narrative to shine through.

The heart of this story rests in the character development and action-packed narrative. The chemistry between Eric and Sasha is palpable, and the evolution of Eric’s character from the Intern Diaries series into this spinoff series is great to behold. The rich cinematic quality of the author’s writing style allows readers to really see in their minds the setting and action come to life as if the novel held the quality of a great CW supernatural drama series. 

The Verdict

Magical, adrenaline-fueled, and cinematic, author D.C. Gomez’s “The Traitor” is a fantastic urban fantasy story and a great addition to the Order’s Assassin Series. The chemistry between the cast of characters and the thriller aspect of the narrative will keep readers glued to the pages of this book, and the twists and turns will have readers eager for more from this incredible author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

D. C. Gomez is a USA Today Bestselling Author, born in the Dominican Republic and grew up in Salem, Massachusetts. She study film and television at New York University. After college she joined the US Army, and proudly served for four years.

Those experiences shaped her quirky sense of humor. D.C. has a love for those who served and the families that support them. She currently lives in the quaint city of Wake Village, Texas, with her furry roommate, Chincha.

https://dcgomez-author.com/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09S6QM2JJ/ref=x_gr_w_glide_sin?caller=Goodreads&callerLink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F62705447-the-traitor%3Fac%3D1%26from_search%3Dtrue%26qid%3DV3OC0rvOuG%26rank%3D1&tag=x_gr_w_glide_sin-20

The Prisoners of Stewartville by Shannon Felton Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A teen boy starts to look into the mysteries of the small town defined by its prison system after discovering a hidden tunnel in the basement of a home, and in doing so uncovers dark histories and hidden secrets that will terrify him to his core in the author Shannon Felton’s “The Prisoners of Stewartville”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Stewartville. A town living in the shadow of the prisons that drive its economy. Haunted by the ghosts of its past. Cursed by the dark secrets hidden beneath. A town so entwined with the prisons waiting outside the city limits that it’s impossible to imagine one without the other, or to ever imagine escaping either.

When a teenage boy digs into the history of the town, he discovers a tunnel system beneath Stewartville, passageways filled with dark secrets. Secrets leading not to freedom, but to unrelenting terror.

Stewartville. Where the convicts aren’t the only prisoners.

The Review

This was a truly captivating and masterful read. The heavy atmosphere of the narrative kept readers engaged right from the beginning. The rich mythos that the author develops for this story and the evil that infects this town (or is it the other way around?), really do a remarkable job of keeping the reader’s hearts pumping.

The heart of this short horror read is actually the balance of character development and the book’s setting. The thing that stuck out to me was how the people of this town felt very much like a by-product of the infestation that this town had become, as it not only seemed to draw in people who are typically deemed by society to live “on the fringes” but would transform people into their worst nightmares through fear and terror. The protagonist’s story and his confrontation with the evil of this town reflected the status of the town altogether, which became a central character in its own right.

The Verdict

Horrifying, chilling, and entertaining, author Shannon Felton’s “The Prisoners of Stewartville” is a must-read occult fiction meets paranormal & urban fantasy novel. The twists and turns this narrative takes and the larger discussion on the prison system and how society treats those living on the fringe kept me invested in this gripping story, as did the shocking twist final pages of this instant horror classic. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Shannon Felton lives in Buckeye, Arizona with her husband, their four children, and three dogs. The Prisoners of Stewartville is her debut novella.