Obsidian: Awakening is a powerful tale, thoughtfully told. It has deep themes to explore through wonderfully complex and morally grey characters. It is a human tale of survival, an exploration of control of both the self and others. How far will people go to stay true to their duty and beliefs? How much can a person take before they break and become the monster they are fighting? These are some of the fascinating aspects explored in this truly mesmerizing tale. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Book Tour/Review: Moon Deeds (Star Children Saga #1) by Palmer Pickering
Moon Deeds is an ambitious science-fantasy space opera, that follows twins Cassidy and Torr. With strong world-building and an intriguing magic system, the mix of dystopian science fiction and fantasy elements are blended together into a convincing narrative.
Review: Dragon Mage (Rivenworld #1) by M.L. Spencer
Dragon Mage is a book that will appeal to anyone who loves classic epic fantasy. It is filled with adventure, emotion, friendship and magic, set in wondrously imagined world with majestic dragons, and characters you will fall in love with. It can also be read as a standalone, with the story coming to a satisfactory conclusion. But… there is so much scope for more. Aram’s journey has only just begun; I will definitely be going along for the next ride.
Review: At the Threshold of the Universe (The Song of Kamaria #3) by T.A. Bruno
At the Threshold of the Universe is an epic swan song that hits all the right chords. It is a truly magnificent conclusion to the Song of Kamaria series.
Review: Springtide Harvest by J.D. Mitchell
Springtide Harvest is a very strong debut, which is well-paced and builds to a satisfying conclusion, that left me wanting more. It could comfortably remain as a standalone novel, but I believe there is more than enough from this world, its characters, and ending, to justify a second book or series. There are certain plot-threads and aspects of the story, like the dungeons, that I would like to learn more about. I would definitely return to read more from this world and its characters; I feel that we have only just scratched the surface of what this story has to offer.
Review: The Fantastically Underwhelming Epic of a Dead Wizard and an Average Bard by Kian N. Ardalan
I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are a lover of all things fantasy, then you will absolutely adore this story. It is a big cosy fantasy hug of a book – packed with action, adventure, emotion, some dark moments balanced with good humour, and fantastic characters you will love. If you are looking for a standalone fantasy epic that really does have it all, then look no further. You will be far from underwhelmed.
Review: Palom (World of Linaria #2) by L. L. MacRae
Palom is a great example of how to follow up a first book in a series. It manages to answer some of the questions from book one, whilst presenting several new ones that perfectly set the stage up for book three. L.L. MacRae has quickly become one of my favourite authors. With her superb world-building and writing style, that allows the story to flow with ease, I can’t wait to return to the world of Linaria.
Review: Dalí (Dalí Tamareia #1) by E.M. Hamill
Dalí is a full-blooded, adrenaline soaked, science fiction romp that had me hooked from the very first line. Dalí is an incredible protagonist. A ‘third-gender’ changeling, bereft from the loss of their husband, wife and unborn child, Dalí takes us on a fast-paced espionage-style thriller across the galaxy.
Review: The Stars Within by Alex Arch
I absolutely loved how the author brought the parallel stories together. The ending left me with so many questions, the kind you want to have from good science fiction stories – philosophical questions about, life, purpose, reality, and how we impact the world and people we interact with.
Review: Glass Rhapsody (The Songs of Sefate #3) by Sarah Chorn
Glass Rhapsody, and The Songs of Sefate series, has an overriding elegiac quality, with enough glimmers of goodness, hope, joy and love to provide light at the end of the tunnel.
It is impossible to satisfactorily put into words how much I loved this book and series. The empathy I was able to feel with the characters was profound, a direct result of the author’s eloquent and lyrical prose. Sarah Chorn’s prose will cut you deep, leaving your bleeding heart exposed; her prose will permeate your soul, giving rise to a cathartic experience.
Review: Pawn’s Gambit (The Mortal Techniques #2) by Rob J. Hayes
If you enjoy a high stakes quest, heists, double-crossing, a hint of steampunk, anime-style action, magic, gods, and a flawed anti hero, then this one is definitely for you. Pawn’s Gambit is yet another piece of phenomenal world building by Rob J. Hayes; like the great chess players, he is a master of his craft.
Review: The Soul Trade (Judas Investigations #1) by Edward Rose
The Soul Trade is perfect for anyone who enjoys urban fantasy within a noir setting. The story is fast-paced and entertaining, with enough mystery and intrigue to keep you turning the pages to the very last one. It is a quick, easy read – a good introduction to a series that has the potential for more.