epic fantasy saga – Author Gail Marie

Book Review – The Gilded Wolves (The Gilded Wolves 1) by Roshani Chokshi

I feel like this was another instance of walking into reading a book based on high expectations. This book won an award and I had this recommended to me by many other readers. At least for me, I was disappointed with most of this book. I didn’t love her characters and their dialogue had me questioning where the historical aspects were meant to be since they didn’t seem to match. Her writing style didn’t draw me in or build any suspense throughout the plot. The pace was awkward since it didn’t seem to always line up with the plot. This was an all-right road but I’m glad I checked this out with kindle unlimited before purchasing it. (2/5 rating)
Checked out with kindle unlimited, August 2023.

Book Review – Starless by Jacqueline Carey

This was my first stand alone, young adult book by Jacqueline Carey. Khai, is raised as a warrior within the desert and chosen to be the sworn protector of princess Zariya. Khai and Zariya embark upon a journey that spans countries and oceans to stop an ancient evil, Miasmu. I know my tastes as a reader have changed much since I purchased this book in 2020 and this book is a case of,’ it’s me, not you’. Carey created a vivid world of potential with absorbing characters. I loved the concept of this book, and the gender fluidity of the characters. I was intrigued by the story of gods and prophecies, but the pace felt slow until the end. I struggled to stay engaged in the story. I know I’m too old for this genre, but you might enjoy this novel. (2/5 rating)

Book Review – Dragon Mage (Rivenworld 1) by M.L. Spencer

Checked out with Kindle Unlimited 10/28/2021 and on my TBR for almost a year. I’m grateful I finally got to this since this epic fantasy was an addicting read. This featured the always majestic Dragons, world ending magic systems, and the ultimate evil villain we all love to hate. Spencer’s writing style had me living in Rivenworld without seeing her words on the page. This story was equal parts heartbreaking and compelling. Of course, I had to add this to my permanent collection. (4/5 rating)

Book Review – The Risen Shard (The Chain Breaker 1) by D.K. Holmberg

This was my first book by D.K. Holmberg, and I checked this out with my Kindle Unlimited trained membership. Our male MC, Gavin, is a young assassin who travels with a friend to the city of Yoran for a work contract. One fateful job leads them through a wild chase that pits Gavin against his past and a magic he’s hidden from most. Gavin was intriguing but I didn’t connect with his quest or the characters. The ending didn’t provide any answers to questions from the story. This has a solid base and a good premise, but I think it could use some work. (2/5 rating)

Book Review – The Queen of Cursed Things (The Serpents and Kings Trilogy 1) by S.M. Gaither

This was my first novel by S.M. Gaither, so I checked it out with my kindle membership first. Our female MC is Alaya, is a descendant of a banished serpent clan and born with the ability to wake them up. Our male MC, the Prince of a monstrous king who wants him dead, will do anything to gain power to stop his father. Together they plan to bring peace to the realm. The premise of this story is well executed with trust and betrayal, leaving Alaya unsure of who to believe wants to help her cause for peace. Gaither weaves an intimate web of deceit around the cast of characters that come together to save their world. I was intrigued by this world and their magic, and I am certainly invested enough to continue with this trilogy. (3/5 rating)

Book Review – The Blood of the Lion (The Vorelian Saga, 1) By C.D. McKenna

This epic story follows 3 main characters: new King Morei Geral, new Dragon Rider Cyrus, and hunted Syria with infamous Demon Killer blade in her possession. All the forces of fate and destiny collide as impending war threatens to throw them into chaos. Like many others here, I was pleasantly surprised by this debut novel. She created a vivid world set with court politics, unique magic systems, and long told prophecies to be fulfilled. Her characters were a work of art, and I loved her maps and how each zone was set up. My favorite plot line was the dragon rider and his fight to create their own destiny. This first novel set up that remaining storyline with that ending. if you’re on the fence about purchasing this, I would recommend adding it to your TBR list. (4/5 rating)