Review Tales
Trusted Reviews and Author Features Since 2016
Strange and Twisted Things by Holly Payne-Strange (Book Review #1696)
“Strange and Twisted Things” by Holly Payne-Strange is a hauntingly captivating novel that delves into the depths of loneliness, legacy, and the dark corners of the human psyche. This gothic tale, set against the backdrop of a menacing, sentient house, weaves an intricate narrative that explores the lives of two women, Greta and Violet, separated by time but united by their struggles and the malevolent forces at play within the house.
Read MoreThe Collective: Science is Stranger Than Fiction by JF Olazabal (Book Review #1694)
“The Collective” is a haunting and thought-provoking speculative fiction novel set in a dystopian future Australia, penned by an author with a clear talent for world-building and storytelling. The narrative follows Iago, a young and skilled Operator working for the Collective, a high-tech orphanage that represents much more than meets the eye. Iago’s life takes a dramatic turn after encountering strange animals, believed to be extinct, and meeting Kraken and Javier, two boys who have escaped from the notorious Village prison.
Read MoreSAM TIME By Donna Balon (Book Review #1693)
“Sam Time” by Donna Balon is a refreshing and imaginative historical time-travel fiction that masterfully intertwines the past and the present. The protagonist, Samantha Hunter, is a compelling character whose journey through time is both enchanting and thought-provoking. As she toggles between her modern life and her vivid dreams set in the Victorian era, readers are treated to a unique and engaging narrative that keeps them on their toes.
Read MoreQueen of Deception by May Freighter (Book Review #1692)
“Queen of Deception” by May Freighter is a riveting tale set in a medieval fantasy world, full of intrigue, betrayal, and political maneuvering. The novel follows the story of Emilia, a seventeen-year-old princess who is determined to change her fate, considered cursed by the Church of the Holy Light since birth. Emilia’s character is a blend of strength, intelligence, and resilience, making her an engaging protagonist in this high-stakes narrative.
Read MoreTill I Bleed No More by Alexander Ellis (Book Review #1691)
“Till I Bleed No More” by Alexander Ellis is a captivating adventure set against the backdrop of the post-piracy era in the year 1728. The story unfolds as Casper Nait, a survivor of a brutal encounter with pirate hunters, finds himself stranded on an island. Little does he know that fate will reunite him with those who almost brought about his demise, thrusting him into a perilous battle for survival and revenge.
Read More“Fog & Fireflies” by T.H. Lehnen (Book Review #1682)
“Fog & Fireflies” by T.H. Lehnen is a captivating novel that masterfully blends elements of golden age fantasy with modern storytelling to create a world both whimsical and thought-provoking. It is a story that delves into the themes of growing older versus growing up, exploring the fears that come with age and the bravery that can be found in the hearts of the young.
Read MoreThe Thief and the Historian by Brendan Corbett (Book Review #1690)
“The Thief and the Historian” by Brendan Corbett marks an enthralling introduction to the Runetree Chronicles, offering readers a delightful blend of fantasy, adventure, and self-discovery. Corbett’s debut novel introduces us to Aeda, a skilled thief associated with the Grey Society. Despite her reservations about her profession, Aeda’s life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself pilfering from Gieral, a Historian responsible for chronicling history.
Read MoreA Vacuum for My Birthday by J.M. Gulmire (Book Review #1689)
“A Vacuum for My Birthday” by J.M. Gulmire is a delightful and imaginative children’s book that takes young readers on a whimsical journey through the anticipation of a birthday surprise. The story revolves around Sam, a spirited 9-year-old, eagerly awaiting her birthday present and, to her surprise, being playfully told by her mom that it’s a vacuum cleaner.
Read MoreLet Evening Come by Yvonne Osborne (Book Review #1735)
“Let Evening Come” by Yvonne Osborne is a poignant and deeply moving narrative that explores themes of loss, love, cultural conflict, and resilience. Set against the backdrop of rural Michigan and western Saskatchewan, the novel weaves together the lives of Sadie Wixom, a young woman grappling with the loss of her mother, and Stefan Montegrand, an Indigenous young man displaced from his ancestral lands. Their story is one of mutual attraction, shared struggles, and the relentless pursuit of understanding and justice in the face of adversity.
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