Tag: Fantasy

A Beacon of Hope: Exploring Trevor Dutcher’s ‘The Keepers of the Light’

‘The Keepers of the Light’ is the exciting new YA magical fantasy novel by Trevor A. Dutcher. Photo: Amazon

Fantasy books for young readers open up magical worlds filled with adventure, friendship, and imagination. These stories often feature brave heroes, mythical creatures, and enchanted realms, inviting children to explore their creativity. Popular series like “Harry Potter” and “Percy Jackson” not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and resilience. Fantasy encourages readers to dream big, confront challenges, and embrace their unique identities. With vibrant descriptions and engaging plots, these books ignite a love for reading and inspire young minds to embark on their own fantastical journeys. Ultimately, they foster a sense of wonder and possibility in every child.

This month, there’s a new fantasy book coming by Trevor A. Dutcher – “The Keepers of the Light (Logan LeVec Book 1) – “What if an entire world depended on you to preserve their very existence?”

Trevor A. Dutcher is a practicing attorney who writes fiction for fun. “Michael McGillicuddy and the Most Amazing Race” was his debut novel with many more in the works. “The Keepers of the Light” is his new YA novel and will be released on October 27, 2024. It is available for pre-order on Amazon.

Review:
Logan LeVec is a normal, well adjusted twelve year old. He lives with his parents and his older brother Bryce, who loves to torment him, and has a close relationship with his grandfather Gideon. Gideon is always entertaining him with outlandish fantasy stories and this worries Logan’s mother because she fears Gideon is losing his grip on reality. When Gideon passes away, Logan discovers that the stories were all true and meant to be a form of training to prepare him for his higher purpose, to become a Keeper of the Light.

With the help of Muggins the Elementalist, and Ginny the girl next door, Logan enters Cameria through a magic portal in a tree. Cameria is a magical place but it is under attack because Karma is stealing the Light; she is vengeful and wants to destroy Cameria. To be able to help, Logan must be anointed a Keeper of the Light, defeat Karma and release the Light in order to return Cameria to its original glory. No pressure there. If he fails, Cameria will be lost forever. One of Karma’s weapons is an enchanted mirror she uses to force people to “reflect” on their wrongdoings. With Muggins and Ginny by his side, Logan must defeat Karma and her army of dissenters before the darkness overwhelms Cameria and all the goodness disappears for good.

“The Keepers of the Light” by Trevor Dutcher is a fascinating blend of adventure and personal growth set against a richly imagined setting. The story follows an unlikely hero tasked with picking up where his grandfather left off and save a world threatened by darkness and evil.

Dutcher’s prose is rich and descriptive, drawing readers into a vivid landscape filled with compelling characters and intricate folklore. The world-building in Cameria is impressive; the author creates an intricate mythology that feels original and timeless. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining tension and excitement while allowing for moments of self-reflection. Underlying the fantasy aspect, there’s also courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Each character is well-developed, especially Muggins and the different regions of Cameria, giving them unique strengths and vulnerabilities that make them relatable. The first person narrative immerses readers into Logan’s innermost thoughts and struggles. While exploring the themes of friendship and good versus evil, it illustrates how diverse individuals can come together for a common cause regardless of background.

Overall, “The Keepers of the Light” is a captivating coming of age fantasy story with exciting settings and characters. Even though it’s a young adult novel, it’s entertaining for all ages and the imaginative storytelling keeps readers immersed in the adventures of Logan and Ginny. It is an easy read and is recommended for fans of fantasy and adventure with likeable characters. Since this is Book 1, I’m sure there are more to come, making this the beginning of an exciting series.

*The author received an ARC of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.
1730021976

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘The Keepers of the Light’ release date

‘Ruby & Onyx’: A Comprehensive Review of Summer Grace’s Latest Work

‘Ruby & Onyx’ is a coming of age fantasy novel by Summer Grace.

Summer Grace is a debut author, with “Ruby & Onyx” as the first part of a series. Summer is passionate about writing stories that inspire as much as they entertain, and she hopes that this book will inspire more women to believe in themselves and embrace their inner strength. (Amazon, 2024)

“Ruby & Onyx” – Trapped in the remote village of Carcera, Radya dreams of an impossible life: a life outside of the magical barrier, a life of love and adventure, and a life free from the menacing red eyes haunting her nightmares. Those delusions are just dreams, until those red eyes turn corporeal and reveal a fate foretold from ages past. Forced to reckon with an arranged marriage to the Prince of Mendacia, who irritates her as often as he quickens her pulse, Radya must navigate an unfamiliar world of magic, lies, and deception. The closer she gets to the truth, the more people get hurt. Each revelation comes at cost, threatening to ignite a war between Kingdoms and lovers. Will Radya choose this new life, despite the profound repercussions? Or will she follow her dreams, which connect her to yet another life unknown?

Review:
The story begins with Radya noticing a strange man on the other side of the barrier that surrounds the small village where she grew up. She knows he shouldn’t be there and he’s asking too many questions and without any warning, he rushes the barrier, only to be reduced to ashes. This experience haunts here and one day, out of nowhere, she is whisked away to a castle in a faraway land and given an ultimatum. Within 30 days, she must decide if she wants to go through with an arranged marriage or risk war among the neighboring kingdoms. The people she thought she knew turn against her and she can’t trust what she sees and hears. Regardless of what she chooses, her life will never be the same.

“Ruby & Onyx” is a captivating contemporary romance that examines the complexities of love and identity. The prose is both haunting and lyrical, immersing readers in the characters’ emotional landscapes: “Despite how annoying he is, I can’t help but notice his beauty. But even the scales of a snake’s skin can be alluring.” Radya’s journey of self-discovery and healing is portrayed with depth and nuance, while the rich character development and vivid descriptions of the setting enhance the overall reading experience. The author skillfully balances moments of intense drama with lighter, more intimate scenes, ensuring a well-rounded narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Despite being brief, the romantic scenes are intense without being graphic or vulgar.

Overall, “Ruby & Onyx” is a beautifully crafted tale that explores themes of love, loss, and self- discovery. Whether you’re drawn to stories of strong-willed heroines or tales of love set against a backdrop of danger and intrigue, this book will not disappoint. It’s a must-read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is romantically fulfilling.

“Before I can run, before I can stop what’s about to happen, our hands meet. The second they do, an explosion of sound and color booms around us, and the room melts into a blur like watercolors washing away.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Navigating the Universe of ‘Loka’: An Insightful Review of S.B. Divya’s Futuristic Novel

‘Loka’ (The Alloy Era Book 2) is the new hard science fiction novel by S.B. Divya. Photo: Amazon

S.B. Divya is the Hugo- and Nebula-nominated author of “Meru” in the Alloy Era series, “Machinehood,” “Runtime,” and the short-story collection “Contingency Plans for the Apocalypse and Other Possible Situations.” Her stories have been published in various magazines, such as Analog and Uncanny; on Tor.com; and in several anthologies, including Seasons Between Us and Rebuilding Tomorrow. She holds degrees in computational neuroscience and signal processing and she worked for twenty years as an electrical engineer before becoming an author. In her new book is “Loka (The Alloy Era Book 2),” finding a place to belong becomes a girl’s ambitious quest. It is a thrilling epic about space, humanity, and self-discovery. (Amazon, 2024)

“Loka” – Sixteen year old Akshaya is the hybrid daughter of Jayanthi (from the first book “Meru”), a human mother, and Vara, an alloy – a genetically engineered posthuman. She’s the future of life on the planet Meru, but Akshaya has other plans. Before choosing where her future lies, she wants to circumnavigate the most historic orb in the universe—the birthplace of humanity: Earth.

Akshaya’s parents reluctantly agree to her participation in the Anthro Challenge – one with no assistance from alloy devices, transport, or wary alloys themselves who manage humanity and the regions of Earth called Loka. It’s just Akshaya, her equally bold best friend, Somya, and a carefully planned itinerary, traveling continent by continent across a wondrous terrain of things she’s never seen before including blue skies, sunrises, snowcapped mountains, and roiling oceans.

As the adventure unfolds, the travelers discover love and new friendships, but they also learn the risks of a planet that’s not entirely welcoming. On this journey—exciting, dangerous, and life-changing—Akshaya will discover what human existence really means.

Review:

“Loka” continues the thrilling saga with an imaginative blend of futuristic technology and humanity’s ever present sense of belonging and identity. The story begins with Akshaya and her friends aboard Chedi, a conscious megaconstruct with a cylindrical body traveling through space. It is the only home she has ever known so she is naturally curious about what else is out there. Divya world-building is amazing, as she creates a rich, immersive environment that blends futuristic technology with traditional concepts like family, friends, and relationships, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. The vivid descriptions and innovative technologies bring the story to life, immersing readers in a vividly constructed universe: “…the chromatophores made me a hybrid – altered enough not to be entirely human, but not so different as to count as an alloy.”

The extensive character development makes the characters relevant. Akshaya’s internal conflicts and growth are portrayed with depth and empathy, making her journey both engaging and relatable. Everything she is experiencing along the way is new to her, so her reactions are emotional: “I listened to the sound of raindrops outside, the wind spattering them in bursts every few minutes. A rainstorm!” The plot unfolds with a series of unexpected twists and turns, maintaining a brisk pace while exploring thought-provoking themes about humanity’s relationship with technology and nature. The secondary characters also receive significant attention, enriching the narrative and adding layers to the central plot. The narration is in the first person point of view through Akshaya’s eyes and the language is easy to understand.

Overall, “Loka” is a thought-provoking and imaginative read that will appeal to fans of speculative fiction and those interested in the intersection of technology and humanity. With its steady pacing and unexpected twists, it offers a compelling continuation of the series. It’s a must-read for fans of speculative fiction who appreciate a fusion of high-tech and traditional elements, delivering both excitement and thoughtful exploration of its themes: identity, friendship, and perseverance.

“I ached in a hundred places, but I was too exhausted to care. We had crossed the Euphrates, I had survived hours of being alone, and we were together again. In that moment, nothing else mattered.”

*The author received an ARC of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

‘The Watchers’: Adapting A.M. Shine’s Epic Tale for Film

The movie adaptation of ‘The Watchers’ is in theaters now. Photo: Amazon

Book to movie adaptations bring beloved characters and intricate plots to life, yet often spark debates among fans about the faithfulness to the source material. Directors face the challenge of condensing rich narratives into a cinematic format, risking either losing nuance or gaining new perspectives. Successful adaptations capture the essence of the book while leveraging the unique power of film to enhance emotion and spectacle. These adaptations continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The most current one is “The Watchers” by A.M. Shine; the movie adaptation, produced by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Dakota Fanning, is currently out in movie theaters nationwide. 

A.M. Shine writes in the Gothic horror tradition. Born in Galway, Ireland, he received his Master’s Degree in History there before sharpening his quill and pursuing all things literary and macabre. His stories have won the Word Hut and Bookers Corner prizes and he is a member of the Irish Writers Centre. His debut novel, “The Watchers,” has received critical acclaim. It is a horror adventure set in the remote and sinister forests of Ireland. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Watchers” – You can’t see them. But they can see you.

This forest isn’t charted on any map. Every car breaks down at its treeline. Mina’s is no different. Left stranded, she is forced into the dark woodland only to find a woman shouting, urging Mina to run to a concrete bunker. As the door slams behind her, the building is besieged by screams.

Mina finds herself in a room with a wall of glass, and an electric light that activates at nightfall, when the Watchers come above ground. These creatures emerge to observe their captive humans and terrible things happen to anyone who doesn’t reach the bunker in time.

Afraid and trapped among strangers, Mina is desperate for answers. Who are the Watchers, and why are they keeping the humans imprisoned, keen to watch their every move?

New book release: ‘Neon Lights and Plane Tickets’ by Eli Alemán

‘Neon Lights and Plane Tickets: A Cosmic Poetic Prose Collection’ Photo: Eli Alemán, used with permission.

Poetry is a type of artistic writing meant to stir a reader’s emotions or imagination. It is very near to my heart because it is the first type of writing I used to express myself. Combined with science fiction, one of my favorite genres of novels, it makes for a unique reading experience. This is the case in today’s new book release: “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” by Eli Alemán. It is a sci-fi poetic prose collection with themes of horror, science fiction, and urban legends and poems such as: District, Phantasmagoric Reverie, The Bloody Birth of Conscience, and Layers of Silence. If you love poetry and science fiction, this is one poetry collection that should be next on your TBR (to be read) list. “Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Goodreads. Pick up your copy today and experience this fascination book of poetry. 

Eli Alemán has been an avid reader since childhood, spending countless hours immersing herself in fantastic worlds and daydreaming of being a part of them. An adventurous and curious spirit led her to become a world traveler and a scientist. She is a microbiologist currently working on marine biology research. She loves nature and the ocean. Despite her field’s logical and analytical nature, her artistic heart beats strong. Eli Alemán is an award-winning artist and now author. Her favorite genres are science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comedy.

“Neon Lights and Plane Tickets” – Neon Lights and Plane Tickets is a sci-fi-themed collection of poetic prose, featuring tales of cosmic horror and galactic urban legends. Explore lush and vibrant cities across the universe, the terrifying creatures they hide, and their inhabitants’ adventures (or misadventures, as the case may be). Bright neon lights and illusions of technological advancement are fine distractions to keep their rotting societies hidden within their foundations—reflections on the intricacies of human nature. (Amazon, 2024)

Sponsored Post

New book release: ‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ by Tal Storm

‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ is the new fantasy novel by Tal Storm. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.

Fantasy novels are so exciting to read because they often transport you to other worlds and realms filled with mythical and magical beings. Magic and a quest for power usually play a big part. If fantasy novels are your go to for escapist reads, consider today’s new book release. “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” by Tal Storm is a dark fantasy story about a young noble girl named Darah Mata. She gets turned into a vampire by her uncle and is forced to learn the dark art of Necromancy. She is tortured for any of her failings and despite the pain, she still yearns for her freedom. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Pick up your copy of “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” on Amazon and find out what happens to Darah.

Tal Storm is an author, a groundskeeper, and a small engine repairman. When not working on equipment, his mind wanders to another world filled with fun fantasy and sci-fi stories. Now, he wishes to share these tales with everyone who loves to share in the joy of fantasy. (Tal Storm, 2023)

“Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” – In Alleria, the Tel’eev Ascendency’s war of conquest sent ripples throughout the world. This is true for Darah Mata, who has been turned into a vampire by the machinations of her uncle. Now, she is forced to learn the dreaded magic of necromancy while being tortured for any failings. Will she be able to attain the freedom from this torment that she seeks?

Sponsored Post

Necrohamster wearing a dark cloak. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Don’t Say Cis’ by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo

‘Don’t Say Cis’ is the new science fiction novel by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo. Photo: Amazon

The theme for today is philosophy and going with that, some people would say that there is a rise in hedonistic nihilism in our current society. Hedonistic nihilism is the belief that if life is inherently meaningless, and since you only live once, then you might as well enjoy your life to the maximum. If you are interested in deep philosophical discussions and enjoy authors like Franz Kafka, Friedrich Nietzsche, George Orwell, H.G Wells, and others, then you might want to check out today’s new book release. “Don’t Say Cis” by Hunter Z Cahoon and Cole A Deyo is a dystopian novel focused on hedonistic nihilism and how it affects the life of one family and the world around them. It is sure to leave an impression on readers and hopefully start a meaningful dialogue on what motivates humankind – it is available on Amazon.

Hunter Cahoon is a current masters student in clinical mental health. His narratives focus on the psychological effects of particular personal philosophies. Mainly, hedonism and nihilism are often critiqued harshly in his works. Cahoon’s inspirations are none other then Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Fredrich Nietzsche, and Franz Kafka. Fans of these authors and psychologists will likely enjoy many elements found in Cahoon’s writings, which blend creativity with deep psychological and philosophical discussion. In the new book “Don’t Say Cis, current master student in clinical mental health, Hunter Cahoon and current bachelor student, Cole Deyo attack the current trend of hedonic nihilism occurring in America while showing the negative effects of banning free speech and intellectual diversity which could help stop the spread of such a philosophy. (Hunter Cahoon, 2023)

“Don’t Say Cis” – What happens when society continues its trend of pursuing the lowest quality pleasures to fill its hedonistic desires? The year is 2059, and a small family finds themselves in this new world full of depression and despair. The group finds the lack of free speech and narrow mindedness of the citizens turn deadly for them. At every turn there is nihilism, purposelessness, false virtues, ignorance of the highest possible good, suicide, impulsively violent anger, and many injustices.

Sponsored Post

New short story release: The Crown of Tannenley by Liza Clarke

The Crown of Tannenley is the new short story by Liza Clarke. Photo: Amazon

Science fiction and fantasy works of literature are fascinating because they transport the reader to make believe worlds, kingdoms, and faraway planets. When I want to escape from the ‘real world,’ I pick up the latest epic novel and get lost in its pages for days. If you like stories similar to The Chronicles of Narnia, A Game of Thrones, and Lord of the Rings, today’s new release, The Crown of Tannenley by Liza Clarke, just might be your next read. It involves kings, queens, invading armies, kingdoms, and all the interesting elements that make fantasy books so exciting.

Liza Clarke lives in the suburbs of Sydney, Australia, loves to travel, and has always enjoyed a good book. She has two cats who like to help her write, though their level of helpfulness is questionable. She has always loved reading fantasy and sci-fi and now she gets to write about it. She has a BA and MA in history and hopes to incorporate them more in her writing. In her new short story The Crown of Tannenley, the future of the kingdom is at stake as a young new king takes over. It is available on Amazon and other book retailers. More on the author here. (Liza Clarke, 2023)

The Crown of Tannenley – The young Queen did her best to defend her people and kingdom – she failed. With her death, the crown fell to her young cousin who she had sent with the refugees. Nickolas was never meant to be King, never wanted the throne, but now he was the only one of the family left. Could he rally not only his people but the Mages’ College to drive the invaders back? Clashing with King Edric was not part of the plan but he had no choice, he had to do what was right for his people, even those from other kingdoms who had been forced to flee. Would the line of Tannenbay end with him or would he win the war?

Sponsored Post

New book release: ‘Sarcaun: The Journey’ by Simone Voltaire

‘Sarcaun: The Journey’ by Simone Voltaire. Photo: Amazon

Simone Voltaire is a first-time author who has always loved reading a variety of genres including the classics, science fiction, fantasy, and mystery books. The creativity and captivating imagination that she enjoyed reading inspired her to put her own imagination into words to share with others. Her father, Arnauld Voltaire, who himself wrote plays and stories, is the one who encouraged her to pursue her goal of writing. She first started by writing short stories that she shared with friends and family but eventually decided to set a goal of writing a book. She wrote “Sarcaun: The Journey” in a span of a few years; it is an integration of many short stories and adventures that she had written that entailed the world of Sarcaun when she first started writing. The book has been positively reviewed by Sarah Poulette from US Review of Books. She is currently working on completing book two of “Sarcaun.” (Simone Voltaire, 2023)

“Sarcaun: The Journey” – For millions of years, gifted Gens lived on earth, until they decided to leave to protect their kind from humans. Thousands of years later, Princess Norellyia is sent from Sarcaun on a trip to earth in order to change her attitude. While living with a family on earth, she discovers a secret about the daughter, Melanie. She intervenes and ends up rescuing Melanie from trouble. In the meantime, chaos ensues on the planet of Sarcaun as evil is unleashed through the portal created by her departure to earth. Norellyia finds herself on a journey that will change her life forever. Also available on Barnes & Noble.

Excerpt available.

Sponsored Post

New book release: ‘Vengeful Strike’ by Jah-Femi Telewa

‘Vengeful Strike’ is the new novel by Jah-Femi Telewa. Photo: Amazon

Jah-Femi Telewa or J.F.T., is a multiple award winning author and multiple award winning composer. His first book titled ‘Somewhere Enchanted’ (under his previous pen name or rather initials J.F.T.) earned 2 awards, one from the Next Generation Indie Book Awards (Indie Book Awards), the other from Literary Titan and has been widely well accepted. His new book “Vengeful Strike” is a tale of morality. Given the choice between right and wrong, the promise imbued within the sword will see kingdoms rise and fall. (Jah-Femi Telewa, 2022)

“Vengeful Strike” – Given an unexpected gift, one man has the power to save his kingdom, or damn it. Life is thrown into turmoil when a fleet of ships arrive off the shores of the kingdom of Nottaly with the promise of gold and riches. The king eagerly accepts his new guests, proclaiming them friends. It is a decision that will come to shape generations.

Nottaly is a kingdom constantly at war, so when the king’s champion is blessed with a special sword capable of saving the kingdom, the king turns to Killsmani to lead his armies in one campaign after the next. Armed with a powerful sword and a host of new allies at his side, the champion quickly discovers all is not well in the heart of Nottaly. A coup is underway. The righteous will fall. Champions become disgraced. What was once considered a blessing quickly turns to the very instrument capable of ruining lives. Seduced by the lure of power and riches, all Killsmani has to do is pick up his sword.

Sponsored Post