"For the Wolf" by Hannah Whitten (a fantasy debut)

In For the Wolf by Hannah Whitten, Red has one purpose in life:  give herself up to the woods and hope the gods will return.  I thought this book was pretty good because Red was a good character, had enough action and the ending chapters were very good!  There will be a sequel.  (Gerard's review, 5 stars)

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"Book of Night" by Holly Black

In Book of Night by Holly Black, Charlie has made a lot of bad decisions but is trying to turn her life around.  When she finds out that her boyfriend has been keeping things from her, things get worse.  Charlie has one shot to turn things around, but can she?  This book was pretty good.  Carlie was a good character but it needed more action.  (Gerard's review, 4 stars)

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Steelstriker by Marie Lu is Great!

Steelstriker by Marie Lu is the sequel to Skyhunter (which I have not read).  This story is told by Talin and Red who are trying to free their land that is ruled by the Premier  Talen better obey the Premier because her mother's life depends on it.  

I liked both Red and Talin, but it is Talin that really drives this book.  Marie Lu's books are always good and this is no exception.  (Gerard's review, 5++ stars)  

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"The Wolf and the Woodsman" by Ava Reid

In The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid, a wolf girl, Evike, and Gaspar, the woodsman, form an alliance to stop Gaspar's brother from taking over the crown!  I thought this fantasy novel was really really good!  I loved the byplay between Evike and Gaspar.  It has good action and the storyline kept me interested throughout!  I also liked the ending.  (Gerard's review, 5+ stars)

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"Lost in the Never Woods" by Aiden Thomas

I had high expectations for Lost in the Never Woods by Aiden Thomas and it lived up to them and then some!  Wendy and her brothers went into the woods one day and only Wendy came back.  After five years Wendy still has bad dreams and dreams of a boy.  One day she meets her dream boy.  He needs her help to rescue her brothers and other lost kids.

I liked this book very much!  The story flows along well and Wendy is a great character.  Plus it has good action and a great ending!  What more could you want?  (Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

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"The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab

In The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab, Addie runs into the forest to get away from a planned wedding.  She wants one thing in life--to cut off all ties to everyone and for no one to remember her.  Her wish is granted, but it comes with a cost.  You will have to read the book to find out what that is.  Life is good until one day a young man does remember her!  How can that be?

 I loved the original concept of this book!  I never read a book like this one before so enjoyed it a lot.  It is well written even though the story does go back and forth in years.  I also liked Addie very much.  (Gerard's review, 5 stars)

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"As the Shadow Rises" by Katy Rose Pool is Very Good!

As the Shadow Rises by Katy Rose Pool is the follow up to There Will Come a Darkness which got my highest rating!  This books starts right where the first ended.  There are five main characters who each have their own story so are well developed.  As you read, you never know which character will come up next.  This book is so good, just as good as the first if not better!  I want more!!!!  (Gerard's review, 5+ Stars)

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"The Ballad of Song Birds and Snakes" by Suzanne Collins

The Ballad of Song Birds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins is about the kickoff to the tenth annual Hunger Games.  The main characters are 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow and his underdog tribute, Lucy Gray.  I thought this book was okay.  The two problems I had with it were that the characters were not developed enough and the lack of action at times.  The story line was easy enough to follow and the ending was okay.  (Gerard's review 10/20/20, 3.5 stars)

Karen's review:  The Ballad of Song Birds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins is all about Coriolanus Snow who mentors Lucy Gray in the tenth annual Hunger Games.  I would say this is kind of a pre-requisite to The Hunger Games series.  I liked the first half of the book better than the second and did not like the ending.  I agree with my husband that at times things seemed to drag along, lacking action.  I looked forward to reading this simply because I loved The Hunger Games Series and this was by the same author, but was disappointed.  It is no where near as good as the books in the series. I would recommend you save your time and skip this one.  (3 stars) 

Teaser from page 64:  "They're not animals, though," said Sejanus.  "They're kids, like you and me."

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"The Kingdom of Back" by Marie Lu

The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu is historical fiction that centers on Wolfgang Mozart and his sister, Nannerl Mozart.  They are both very talented when it comes to playing music on the piano.  Nannerl wants fame but in this book fame comes at a cost.  Will she be willing to pay that cost?

Marie Lu is such a talented writer!  I enjoyed reading about both the brother and sister very much and look forward to her next book!
(Gerard's review, 5+ stars)

Teaser from page 7:  I closed my eyes.  In the darkness, with only myself, I searched for the pulse of the music and let my hands find it.

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"A Heart So Fierce and Broken" by Brigid Kemmerer

A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer is the second book of this series about Rhen, Grey and Harper.  In this book, the main characters are Grey, Lila Mara and Hunter's brother and friend--Jacob and Noah.  The focus is on Grey's secret and the efforts of Lila Mara's country to form an alliance with Rhen.  Will there be war or can a peace agreement be reached?  Will Grey and Lila fall in love, perhaps rule together?  How will Rhen protect his people?

I enjoyed this book as well, especially since I like Grey and this was all about him.  There was fighting, new relationships formed and a cliff hanging ending.  Can't wait to read the next book in the series!  I was somewhat disappointed in the small part Harper had in this book; however, I did like Lila Mara and found myself routing for her and Grey.  I also liked the scarver, Iisak who brought another facet to the story.  There was not a lot of magic in this one, just a little here and there.  I enjoyed Jacob's brother in this and the banter between him and Grey.
(Karen's review, 5 stars)

Gerard's review:
A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmererfocuses on Grey, the former captain of the guards protecting Rhen.  Lia Mara is the new character in this book that plays a main role along with Grey.  She tries to make a peaceful alliance with Rhen, but appears to have failed.  I thought this book was very, very good!  I enjoyed the interaction among all the characters.  The pacing of the book is very good also so I am looking forward to book 3!  (5++ stars)

See our review of the first book in this series, A Curse So Dark and Lonely.

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"Bravelands--The Spirit-Eaters" by Erin Hunter

You can never go wrong with an Erin Hunter book!  Bravelands--The Spirit-eaters has talking animals!  Bravelands faces danger like it has never known before.  A pack of wolves has broken "the code."  They must be stopped, but by whom? and how? 

I enjoyed this book very much.  It flows along well and has plenty of action.  It has maps on the inside covers.  It looks like a book two is coming which I am happy about.
(Gerard Zemek, 5 stars)

Teaser from page 10:  "They didn't eat anything of their kills--nothing, except the heart.  These wolves, they believe that when they eat a creature's heart, they take its spirit and its abilities."

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"There Will Come a Darkness" by Katy Rose Pool

In There Will Come a Darkness by Katy Rose Pool, the age of darkness is coming to the land but, all is not lost.  According to legend, a new prophet will rise and be the savior.  But who is that?  and will he or she be able to do it?  This book covers five people who could be the hope for the world or the cause of the darkness predicted! 

I thought this book was really, really good!  The author told the story in such a way so I was really invested in the main characters!  With tons of action that I did not know what was to come!  I am amazed that this was the author's first book.  Give it a chance.  If there is a sequel, I will be on it!
(Gerard's review, 5++ stars)

Teaser from page 15:  "There's no word about the prince," the woman continued.  "He hasn't been seen in Nazirah since the coup.  He's completely vanished."

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"Tempests and Slaughter" by Tamora Pierce

Tempests and Slaughter by Tamora Pierce is about three young people, two boys and one girl, going to a school to improve their magical abilities.  This book had ups and downs to me.  I enjoyed the three main characters well enough but think the writing and story line could have been better.
(Gerard's review, 3 stars)

Karen's review:
I did not finish this one.  I read about halfway and wasn't invested in it because there was no action!  It just didn't hold my interest at all and there really was no plot going on by the halfway point.  Although I liked the three main characters enough, I did not want to plow through it any longer so gave up on it.

Teaser from page 6:  "The other man seized Arram by the collar and lifted him into the air.  'If you're a mage, spell me, then,' he growled.

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"Out of the Wild" by Sarah Beth Durst (Children's Fantasy)

Out of the Wild by Sarah Beth Durst is a children’s book about Fairy Tale characters escaping “the Wild” and living under cover in the real world. This has lots of adventure and is totally silly. It reminded me of a cartoon. However, Julie shows persistence in solving the world’s problem and manages to arrive at a sort of compromise leading to a happy ever after ending.

 I had to remind myself that this is a children’s book because the whole plot is so silly. It has some funny parts and emphasizes the importance of being yourself. I liked Julie’s father the best in this. This is extremely whimsical so didn’t really appeal to me, but young children may find it very amusing and entertaining. I almost quit on this one but figured I might as well finish it since it would go quickly because it is a kid's book.
(Karen’s review, 2 stars)

Teaser from page 29: “We’re going to Grandma’s motel,” Julie said. She wondered if this was going to be a problem. In their fairy tale, Dad and Grandma weren’t exactly friends. “You knew her as Dame Gothel, Rapunzel’s witch. But don’t worry—she’s not evil anymore.”


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"A Curse so Dark and Lonely" by Brigid Kemmerer

A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer is a great mix of contemporary fiction and fantasy. The main character, Harper, a girl born with Cerebral Palsy and her brother, Jake, struggle to care for their mother who is dying of Cancer and paying debts to the hoodlums their father was mixed up with before he died. Then one day, she was magically transported to another world called Emberfall where she was taken to break a curse that was on the prince and the castle.

I really liked this book because of the interesting characters, an amazing adventure, and the humor throughout the book. Some parts even made me laugh out loud! This was a page-turner for me that I could get lost in. Harper is a very strong girl and I enjoyed her interactions with Prince Rhen and Gray, his royal guard. This was a very entertaining, fun read that did not end quite the way I had hoped, but pretty close. I highly recommend this if you want a good escape from reality for a while. Loved it! (5 stars)

Karen’s teaser from page 147: “You would dare threaten the first daughter to the King of Disi?” Without waiting for an answer, I turn to face Rhen, who’s looking at me like I’ve grown a second head.

Gerard's review 3/30/19:
In A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer, Harper and her brother do their best to take care of their mom who is very sick.  One night while Harper tries to save a young girl, she is taken and discovers a magical kingdom! A young prince needs her help!  Will she give it?  Can she ever return home? The story is told by Harper and Prince Rhen.

I thought this was pretty good.  I got involved with both of the characters early on.  I liked the story with some surprises.  The last part of the book is action packed!  I am hoping for a book 2. This is well worth reading.  I enjoyed it!
(5 stars)

Teaser from page 11:  Grey grabs his sword from the chair, pulling it free from the scabbard with a fierceness I haven't seen in . . . in ages.  "Have no worries, my lord.  This may be the shortest season yet."

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"Queen of Sorrow" by Sarah Beth Durst (Book 3 in Queens of Renthia Series) Great Series!

Gerard's review:
The Queen of Sorrow by Sarah Beth Durst is the final book in the Queens of Renthia trilogy.  Queen Aleina wants peace for her land and now with Queen Naelin at her side, things look bright for the future!  But, when Naelin's children are taken by other spirits, she has reason to believe that Queen Merecot is behind it and Naelin wants her children back!  If it means war, then so be it.  This book is really, really good just like the previous two.  The writing is very good as well!  This is one you get into right away and hate to put down!  I loved the interaction among all the characters and was glad to see the wolf, Bayn, back in this one.  Love that wolf!  (5++ stars)


The Queen of Sorrow by Sarah Beth Durst is a wonderful finish to the Queens of Renthia trilogy, my favorite fantasy trilogy of all time! I loved this story so much, I was disappointed to see it end—even though I liked the ending. Queen Merecot had Naelin’s children kidnapped and brought to her castle in Semo and also got rid of the wolf Bayn, having her spirits chase him into the untamed lands! Merecot enters into a power struggle with the Queens of Aratay in the hopes of getting enough “spirit” power to change the spirits for good. We also meet Ven’s family, Queen Daleina’s sister, and Cajara, a new heir candidate. There is much death and some sadness in this but it is well balanced with joyful occasions, humor and happiness.

I liked all of the queens in this book and enjoyed their negotiations and scheming as well. I was pleased with Naelin’s decision in the end and enjoyed her journey! What a trip! I am normally not one for politics, but really was drawn into the political aspects of this book. I really hope the author comes up with some more books about Renthia! I want to know what happens with Merecot, Arid, Ven and Naelin, Hannah and of course, Queen Daleina. The characters are so well developed and the writing is amazing! I liked that it has so many characters without being confusing. Sarah Beth Durst has officially become my favorite fantasy author!
(Karen's review 3/22/19, 5 stars)

Teaser from page 32: As she flew, she flung her mind out like a net, catching every spirit within fifty miles and driving them toward Semo. SAVE MY CHILDREN! ATTACK!

See our other reviews for this series:  The Queen of Blood and The Reluctant Queen

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"The Deepest Blue" by Sarah Beth Durst (Fantasy) We Both Loved This One!

The Deepest Blue by Sarah Beth Durst is a fantasy about bloodthirsty nature spirits, love, adventure, sea monsters and politics on the Belene Islands south of Renthia.  Mayara successfully kept her spirit power a secret for years, only confiding in her best friend, Kelo who is now her fiance.  Unfortunately, on her wedding day, she used her special power to stop the big spirit storm from destroying her island.  That is when her adventure starts and she finds out what she is truly made of.  When the "Silent Ones" eventually find her, she is faced with a difficult choice:  denounce her family, leave her home forever and don't talk to join the Silent Ones or take her chances at trying to survive for a month on an island that is home to many nature spirits who are hungry and then become heir to the queen of Belene with the opportunity to visit her loved ones again.

I enjoyed reading this book very much, it is so good!  I liked the humorous parts and the characters.  The plot had twists I did not see coming at all and I was turning pages quickly eager to find out what would happen next.  My emotions were all over the place with this one--amusement, sadness, joy and curiosity.  This is a stand alone with a great ending!  I finished reading this one in just two days and recommend to anyone who enjoys uncomplicated fantasy.  (I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review--this book comes out March 19, 2019.)
(Karen's review 3/15/19, 5 stars)

Gerard's review 3/18/19:
In The Deepest Blue by Sarah Beth Durst, it starts off with Mayara's wedding day--a day to celebrate. But even before the vows are said, Mayara makes a decision that puts her future in doubt!  Can she get her and her husband's plans back on track, or is their future doomed?  The pacing of this book is very well done.  The best thing about this book to me was the interaction between all of the characters.  I really cared about what was going to happen.  The ending of the book was a wild ride to say the least!  Great job, Sarah!  (5++ stars) 

Teaser from page 73:  "Because you've arrived, we all get to die that much sooner.  Hurray.  So happy to meet you."

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"Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder

Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder is a children’s fantasy book about nine kids who live on an island. Once a year, a boat comes with a new young child and the oldest on the island leaves in the boat so there are always only nine on the island. The island is safe, the children happy. Things change though when it is Jinny’s time to leave. Loo arrives but instead of Jinny leaving since she is the oldest, she decides to stay. Then things change!

I liked reading this okay, but didn’t like the ending because left me with lots of questions. It is a fable about growing up, but much didn’t make sense to me.
(Karen's review, 3 stars)

Teaser from page 2:  Deen had lifted the bell and rung it to summon the others.  Deen had been alone, briefly, with the knowledge that it was time again for a Changing.

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"Evermore" by Sara Holland

Evermore by Sara Holland is the sequel to Everless.  Both are good.  Evermore focuses on the Alchemist's (snake) quest to kill the Sorceress (fox) with lots of adventure, close calls, and unexpected romance.  Jules super power of controlling time becomes stronger in this book and she gets back some memories from her past lives.  Liam has a much bigger part in this book.

This went pretty fast because there was so much action.  I raced through it and liked the ending.  The magic was a bit confusing to me, but still, a good read.
(Karen's review 2/9/19, 4 stars)

Gerard's review 2/16/19:
Evermore by Sara Holland is the follow-up to Everless.  Jules finds out who she really is and Caro wants what Jules has and will do anything to get it back!  I thought this book was better than the first because it had lots more action and did not really know what to expect next!  I liked the ending.  (5 stars)

Teaser from page 5:  Word of my crimes has spread to every corner of Sempera.  That I seduced Roan Gerling while a servant at Everless and used him to gain access to the visiting Queen's chambers.  Then cut Roan's throat and stabbed the Queen through the heart.

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"Everless" by Sara Holland--We Both Gave This 4 Stars

Everless by Sara Holland is her debut novel. It is a fantasy about mystery, magic, betrayal as Jules goes searching for an answer to why her father told her to never let the queen see her and to run if she ever saw Liam Gerling, once a childhood friend who banished her and her father from Everless. I liked Jules, but it didn’t make sense to me that she wouldn’t listen to her father and not go back to Everless, a dangerous place for her. She discovers her papa kept lots of secrets from her which leads to her searching for even more answers!

As with any fantasy, some things didn’t make a whole lot of sense to me, but I enjoyed this book anyway. It has a lot of interesting characters and an angle I haven’t come across before with the blood iron—stealing people’s years of life by draining some blood from them. This was a hard concept for me to really understand. The character interaction is what kept my interest. I didn’t like that one of my favorite characters was killed.
(Karen’s review, 4 stars)

Gerard's review:
Everless by Sara Holland is fantasy and this author's first novel.  The concept was a new one that I have never read before.  It deals with blood and you can store it up to live longer.  The main character is a young girl named Jules who I liked.  I was engaged for the most part.  The ending was wild to say the least, but I liked it enough that I will read book 2--Evermore!  (4 stars)

Teaser from page 16: If I hadn’t pulled Roan out before the flames could catch, he would have been burned alive. And as my reward, we had to flee the only home I had ever known, because Papa was afraid of what Liam would do to me if we stayed at Everless, knowing what I had seen.


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