The Godsblood Tragedy Review Spotlight

 The Godsblood Tragedy is a gripping fantasy novel with some sci-fi/steampunk elements that readers are not going to want to miss. The Godsblood Tragedy is Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda and from page one you just know that this book and series is going to be epic.

The Godsblood Tragedy kicks things off with a cover that absolutely grabs the eye and holds your attention. A massive city dominates the cover of The Godsblood Tragedy. Everywhere you look you see lights, soaring towers, and tiers of the city on full display. Whispers of mist and clouds float all around. In the foreground, a woman stands with glowing tattoos on her left arm.

She’s standing facing this city of industry and full of danger. Soaring in the sky is dragon or vvyern. It flies unchallenged while small ships sail through the air, monitoring the populace. All of these elements come together to pique the interest of readers. To call to them to pick this book up and dive in to see what it’s all about.

The Godsblood Tragedy is the first book by Bill Adams in his Divine Godsqueen Coda. This epic fantasy novel blends together magic and technology into a unique story that will pull you in from the first chapter. Here you will meet a variety of characters who will be the focal of this book as each embarks on their own personal quests and vendettas.

The first character that you will encounter in The Godsblood Tragedy is Ashe. Of course, in this first chapter, she’s essentially nameless. She is an orphan looking to discover who she is and find her family. She goes from being called “Stray Cat” to Ashe once she lands in the desert city of Drenth. There she finds chaos is brewing and erupting. But this place will be her home, so she finds a place to call “home” and settles in.

As The Godsblood Tragedy gets underway, you “officially” meet Ashe. She’s in a bit of trouble, but she’s on a quest, so trouble tends to find you along the way. What she doesn’t expect to find is more questions than answers. Something happens on this “job” that she’s taken on and it rings the bell of trouble yet to come. Of course, the situation she’s in? It just keeps getting more complicated by the minute.

Author Adams shifts the story from Ashe to his next character in mind – Cadrianna. This character will absolutely spark readers' interest. It’s all in the eyes...same with Ashe. Same, but dynamically different. It will fuel your intrigue and have you digging deeper to learn more. But Cadrianna bears more uniqueness beyond her eyes...she carries a daemon blade. This blade is so unique it’s insanely cool. LOL! Bonded with a daemon it apparently also has a wicked sharp sense of humor and wit.

Trust us on this one...you’ll snort more than once when Stix is in a scene and has something snarky to say. Safe to say that Cadrianna isn’t always interesting in engaging with her blade. But, of course, author Adams has to make this blade something truly unique. Don’t worry, we’ll leave that tidbit for you readers to discover for yourselves.

Each chapter in The Godsblood Tragedy alternates between characters that you will be introduced to one at a time. One will be especially surprising when you learn about their past. Why do we say this? Because he’s supposed to be dead!!! Were we given a heads-up about this little tidbit of information? Honestly? Yes. Did our jaw still drop when we read the revelation? Absolutely. LOL!

The deeper readers go into The Godsblood Tragedy the more you will be drawn into the lives and fights of the main cast of characters. Each has their own agenda that they are moving towards. Lojen is one such fascinating character. A drakken without his horns he’s on a quest to reclaim what was stolen from him. A quest to reclaim tinged with a quest for revenge. Will he be able to balance the two against themselves?

Each chapter focuses on the specific character of that particular moment, but then ramping up the drama when their paths clash with the other characters. One thing you can expect from this book is a ton of drama that amplifies this book to the next level.

Wanting to know what the characters look like? Using your imagination only taking you so far? Well, you’re in luck, because author Adams gives readers images of the four main characters of this story. In the (physical) book author Adams includes character plates to give readers a better idea of what the characters look like.

The Godsblood Tragedy is an epic fantasy novel that will absolutely slam-dunk its way into your top favorite reads for 2024. Twists, dragons, drama, romance, secrets and so much more are tucked away in this novel’s pages. Once you start reading this book you’ll be hard-pressed to want to put it down. So, we recommend clearing your schedule, grabbing some snacks, and getting comfortable. This book is worth every second you will dedicate to it.

Hate cliffhangers? Well, this book ends on one, but it’s one that will have the hair on your head standing up with excitement and anticipation for where author Adams is taking this series next. We can’t wait to discover the rest of this story and where author Adams takes the characters from here!

5 out of 5 stars

The Godsblood Tragedy: Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda

An orphan, without a trueborn name, returns to the city of her birth to uncover her past. Hounded by the servants of the Dark God and dying from the poisonous mist that covers the land, her path leads to one of the magical seals protecting the holy ruin of Eminence.

A father, murdered and reborn, aims to bring down the floating fortress hovering over his homeland. Burdened by loss, he’s willing to sacrifice his soul to free his city and get revenge for the destruction of his family.

A mother, captured and bonded to a daemon, kills in the name of the Dark God so she can free her tortured daughter. Relentless in her vengeance, she hunts the one person who could end her suffering: the man who would destroy her vile master.

A drake, the banished hatchling of a failed advisor, seeks his father’s stolen horns. Untested, he desires to right his father’s wrongs in the eyes of the gods and restore his family’s honor.

As all converge in the occupied desert city where the world’s fuel source is mined, one family’s bond will be tested. Old betrayals will resurface, anger and resentment will flourish, but one thing remains clear: blood rules all.

About the Author

When not writing, Bill is a product manager for a company that tests food using analytical chemistry and microbiology.

During his collegiate days at the turn of the century, he began to develop his passion for writing, especially within the epic fantasy genre about unlikely heroes. It was there, Bill began to formulate the story that would eventually become Ashe’s unwanted journey and The Divine Godsqueen Coda.

Aside from writing, Bill loves movies and reading, especially SFF B-movies. He likes to know all the useless trivia, like who played who, and what the stories were behind the curtain. He is a master at Scene It. Bill’s few other hobbies include soccer, a good whiskey, a slice of pizza, and growing a beard. It is the little things he enjoys most.

Bill currently lives in the greater Chicago, IL area with his wife and young son.

Thanks to the author, Bill Adams and Indie Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in this tour! We hope you enjoyed our stop! Be sure to grab your copy of this amazing book! We look forward to what comes next! 

 

Forgotten Ashes Review Spotlight

 Forgotten Ashes is the first book in the Iolite Academy series by Kathryn Covens, and readers who love upper YA fantasy romance novels will absolutely devour this book.

Forgotten Ashes draws readers in with a gorgeous cover. Swirling branches and briar dance around the cover of this book. Gates of iron stand proudly in the center of the cover, rising up through a sliver of the moon. Beneath, swirl licks of flames as they rise up around the gates while embers dance higher into the air. Forgotten Ashes has a truly stunning cover that grabs the eye and makes one curious as to the story that lies inside.

Forgotten Ashes is book one in the Iolite Academy series. Author Covens has imagined a world of shifters, demons, witches, and other creatures. Get ready to meet a young woman by the name of Briar. There is something truly unique about Briar, and only a select few know her secret. To know the truth about her? It’s a dangerous thing, and it will mean the end of Briar. Why? Because she’s not supposed to even be alive.

Things are shifting in Briar’s world, and it’s not a good thing. As the Beta to her pack’s Luna. She’s earned her place, but not everyone is taking it in stride. A certain Enforcer is holding onto a tight grudge, and it’s causing some ripples of trouble. Sooner rather than later these ripples will impact everything.

But first things first, yes? Briar is getting ready to head to the Iolite Academy where she is supposed to take her place as Luna. Her packmate, Grayson is already there as the Alpha. Things between them? Oy vey. They are not what they used to be. You’ll find out really fast what caused a shift between them.

Forgotten Ashes is a page-turner of a novel, so when do you start this book? Buckle up. Settle in. Make sure you have some drinks and snacks because you’re not going to want to put this book down once you start reading it.

Forgotten Ashes starts out outside of Iolite Academy, but once it shifts there that is where the drama really ramps up. The tension and drama between Briar and Grayson is everything. They are packmates, so you’d think that he would be supportive of her. Nope! This guy undermines her at every turn! It will drive you absolutely crazy! But it will also have you digging deeper into this book to find out what Briar will do.

Typically when authors say “feisty female” they mean a female character who thinks that being overly sassy, mouthy, and brash. Let’s be real...for this reader, we absolutely HATE those types of female MCs. They typically detract from the storyline and have us (we personally) rolling our eyes every time she opens her mouth. LOL! Briar, thankfully is a truly unique character in that she is balanced, fun, and has just enough strength and sass to give some spice to the story.

Author Covens...you did that. Pat yourself on the back. Briar is a fun character. She’s strong when she has to be, but she also has a softer side. She stands up for those who are under her protection. We love her sense of humor and how she chooses to handle various situations. Honestly, she does better than we would have when it comes to Grayson’s constant undermining.

There are moments where she finally reaches her limits and we are not ashamed to say...we cheered her on. LOL! Another character that readers are absolutely going to love is Kenna. Girlfriend is a stick of dynamite in the best way. We worried that she’d be that “mean girl” character, but the friendship that sparks up between her and Briar is everything.

Get ready to laugh quite a bit when Kenna is on the scene. She is so out of the box you’re going to be “Team Kenna and Briar” before you know it. It’s rather funny since Kenna is the one that Briar is going to have to fight to obtain the title of Luna at the Academy. The knee-jerk reaction is to want to “hate” the person Briar is going to have to go up against, but Kenna is one shifter you’re going to love.

The drama isn’t contained to just the Academy grounds though. Though of course, you’re going to find a fae (teacher) you’re going to want to smack into another world, and that’s on top of the bs going on with Grayson.

Grayson is one of the most infuriating characters in this book. Author Covens does this delicate dance with him though. One minute you want to smack him for being a jerk to our girl Briar, and then you see those sparks of romance trying to kick up. You don’t know whether you want the sparks to take hold and ignite, or if you want Briar to just give him the cold shoulder or pull a Ceelo Green and say “F--- You!” LOL!

Forgotten Ashes is told from a dual POV. The story focuses heavily on Briar (The Rose) and then a second character, who you get to guess about (The Moon). Initially, we thought that it was one character, but then...it didn’t make sense when certain details were laid out. Author Covens does this to keep us on our toes. We’re sure of it. LOL! But then it appears to shift more solidly into one character’s direction and settle there.

Are there new sparks of a potential future romance building? Can we hope? Dare we hope? Well, we’re going to hope because...well, what’s the harm in it, right? Right!?! LOL! Things are sounding like maybe, so we’re going to just cling to it, and sit tight for book two...yeah.

Things aren’t supposed to exist anymore and proving that they do. The secret that Briar is clinging to is becoming more and more in danger, and with that so is her life. The future is becoming more and more uncertain. With one exposure Briar’s life will soon be under threat.

Forgotten Ashes ends on a cliffhanger that will have you howling for book two. Trust us on this one...we’re ready to get down on our knees and beg author Covens for book two...because we need it now!!

Forgotten Ashes blends fantasy, small glimpses of romance, dynamic characters, intrigue, and more than a little suspense. Nothing is what it seems and this book is an absolute feast. Readers who enjoy all of the above...grab this book and dive in! You will not be disappointed.  

5 out of 5 stars

Pick up your copy today! 

Amazon US 

 

Tenebrion Review Spotlight

Welcome one and all to the book tour for Tenebrion! Love a good horror story with gore, demons, and some seriously twisted elements? Then this is the book for you! Keep reading.

It's that time of year again. It's time for the annual Terrorfest competition, and everyone is piling up into the theater to see what the contestants thought up to try and win this year's contest. Some are excited, some are bored, and some are just ready for it all to be over with. But something dark overshadows this year's contest.

Death...

One of the teams didn't make it. Their final moments? Captured on film. It's evidence in an investigation, but that's not going to stop one of the hosts for Terrorfest from showing what he found on the film that he got. Horror is about to be unleashed...

Tenebrion is a horror novel by James H. Longmore. This story details a group of indie filmmakers looking to create a short film that could be their big breakout moment. Or are they? Could it be that someone in the group has something more in mind? 

Tenebrion has a slow start. This book is slow getting going, but once it gains steam and momentum you can expect a novel that will keep you glued to the pages to find out how not just how it all goes down, but what will happen to the characters you meet at the beginning. 

Page by page Tenebrion unfolds as the characters in this book go to an old abandoned school. This is a place of terrible tragedy. It's almost like a magnet for death and destruction. Countless lives have been lost and so, for Dave Priestley this is the place to come to for his epic film idea. 

Tenebrion goes for Blair Witch but in book form. You're getting the set up and the calm before the storm. But all is not as it seems. Author Longmore gives readers little glimpses into another's mind. This creature is plotting the mayhem that will befall these innocent lives. But first it will break them and break them down. 

The title ties into the story rather quickly which is really nice, and then it is tied even tighter to the storyline in multiple places to re-emphasize just who and what this story is about. It's absolutely fantastic. 

While this book has a slow start and takes time to find it's stride, it is a true page-turner. The author works just hard enough to keep your interest piqued. Once you're hooked though? Good luck putting this book down. You're going to be eagerly page-turning to find out what fresh horror awaits these characters. What will they be made to endure before the bloody end?

Tenebrion showcases how this author allowed his imagination to run absolutely wild. You think that you know where this story is going and then you get a surprise element or twist thrown at you. One thing is for sure and that is you're not going to be bored reading this book. 

You will be eagerly looking for more by this author and devouring everything in your path. Tenebrion is darkly delicious and a must read for readers who enjoy a tasty horror novel that will be sure to worm it's way deep into your mind. 

We dare you to read it in the dark...before you go to bed... 

Sweet dreams...if you do. LOL

5 out of 5 stars

Black Tide Book Tours

July 2-5

"The Devil is in the detail..."

Amateur filmmakers inadvertently invoke a demon when they break into an abandoned school to perform and film an authentic Black Mass for their entry into a short movie competition.

Dave Priestley and his crew film in Watsonville elementary school – the site of a horrific tragedy nine years before.

Tenebrion – the malevolent demon of darkness – makes preparations of its own within the dark recesses of Hell. The demon requires a specific set of circumstances and sacrifices to rend a fissure between the worlds and set free its brethren; it has manipulated humans for centuries to put things into place, and the moviemakers are the unfortunate, final pieces of its nefarious puzzle.

Priestley, ever the stickler for authenticity and detail, accidentally sets free the denizen of Hell.

While Priestley and his skeptical friends attempt to return Tenebrion to the pit of Hades, it hunts them all down – one by one – for inclusion in its hellish gateway.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Author

James hails originally from Yorkshire, England having relocated with his family to Houston, Texas in 2010. He was honored to become a US citizen in 2022. He has an honors degree in Zoology and a background in sales, marketing, and business. James is an Affiliate Member of the Horror Writers Association.

An accomplished, published author (and publisher in his role as co-founder partner in HellBound Books Publishing LLC), and ghostwriter of popular fiction, James writes across an incredibly wide range of genres and subjects in novel, shorts story, and screenplay formats. To date, he has four novels, five novellas, and a whole slew of short stories published by various publishers (many can be found in his first collection, Blood and Kisses). He also runs and co-hosts the popular ppodcast/radio show (The New Panic Room), which is used to promote HellBound Books and indie authors, artists, audiobook narrators, and publishers of all genres.

James has been working full time as a freelance ghostwriter (and editor) for over a decade. He is quite the chameleon when it comes to writing: James is able to adapt to a wide range of styles and genres, is incredibly thorough in his research (he's renowned for his details, which bring stories leaping from the page!), extensive vocabulary, and he always keeps the client's "voice" when ghostwriting. Clients love him - especially with that Northern British accent (as an ex-pat, James is most proficient at writing in both UK and US styles – he also has clients in Australia who love his style!) and enthusiasm for every writing project he takes on.

https://www.jameslongmore.com
https://twitter.com/james_longmore
https://www.facebook.com/jameshlongmore1
https://mybook.to/jameshlongmore

Publisher's Social Media

https://hellboundbookspublishing.com/
https://twitter.com/HellBoundBooks
https://www.instagram.com/hellboundbooks

 

The Story of Evil Vol 1 Review Spotlight

We're excited to share with you today....The Story of Evil: Heroes of the Siege! Author Tony Johnson has created quite the epic with this story and series. If you haven't read it yet...you are in for a treat! 

 The Story of Evil: Heroes of the Siege is the first volume in Tony Johnson’s The Story of Evil series, and if you love an action packed story then this is the one for you.

Heroes of the Siege draws you in with a cover featuring a knight dressed for a joust or even possibly battle going full tilt. Decked in reds with blue accents the image is enough to excite you to witness the fight at hand for yourself. But what you don’t know is the chaos that is waiting to erupt...and that will spare no man, woman or child.

The Story of Evil: Heroes if the Siege sets the stage with a prologue that outlines the creation of Element, the planet our characters will call home. We get an interesting story of creation followed by a power struggle between two gods: Alazar and Zebulon. Cue the rise of a five headed dragon. Yes, people...five heads. Can we all say hydra? Well, the good news is...the heads don’t grow back. LOL! Once one head goes...it’s a done deal.

While the evil dragon, Draviakhan, is slain, it doesn’t mean that all is now well. King Zoran, the defeater of Draviakhan, reigns, but age is catching up to him. Meanwhile evil is brewing in his own kingdom, and chaos is about to be reigned down on the innocent once more.

Enter Steve! The warrior who will be representing Celestial in the tournament. He’s excited, and the people are excited as well. Steve is one of several characters who will take the stage in this beginning story. Steve is 19 years-old. He has no idea that this day of the tournament will be one of the longest and hardest for him.

Then meet Karia. She’s half human, half elf. She’s alone in this world, but she’s doing her best to survive and get by. She encounters her own problems when she crosses paths with a monster in the forest. This is a sign of things to come. Karia has repeatedly voiced how humans are taking too much by over hunting, but no one listens. Now, she faces the problem head on for herself.

Then there is Ty, an Elf. Ty is depicted as the good looking carefree character who believes in living life to the fullest. Why? Well, the reason for that will be revealed soon enough. All we’ll say is that...family history as a way of repeating itself. So the question becomes...will Ty follow in history’s footsteps? Or will he finally break that chain?

Heroes of the Siege is a page-turner from beginning to end. This story reads like it is shorter than it actually is. You’re going to become so engrossed in this story that it’s going to be you “blink” and you’ve reached the end. LOL! You’ll be looking around like...”where is the rest of the story at?!” While volume one may come to a close quickly, the good news is that book two is available to go and grab up right now.

Author Johnson knows how to put together a story. We’ll say that. You get dynamic characters and gripping scenes. When the chaos and fighting breaks out with the surprise attack the drama and the hits just keep coming. Grab a breath when you can because the author is not going to give you many opportunities. Trust us on this one.

Story of Evil: Heroes of the Siege is going to be a must read for many a lover of fantasy novel. You’re going to get monsters, monsters and more monsters. You’re going to get good monsters who side with the humans, elves and dwarves. Then you’re going to have the monsters who side with evil. One aspect that we love is the uniqueness and layers that the author gives readers with this story.

You’re not getting “mindless” creatures in the monsters who just attack because they can. You get creatures that can think and rationalize. You can really expect a lot of grit and drama that will play out on the page.

You will also see a lot of heartbreak and loss as chaos breaks out with this surprise attack. Author Johnson doesn’t shy away from giving readers exactly what they will be looking for when it comes to this story. You are going to get the details, not gorey details, but you will see characters go from living and vibrant to be another tragic loss in the face of a cruel and unrelenting war machine.

Steve, Ty and Karia will truly shine in this story as they each manage to escape death more than once. You can prepare yourself to be pulled to the edge of your seat multiple times as the question of who will survive and who will fall. As the story moves closer to a close the hint of a bigger story begins to unfold. A prophecy that hints at something more. A king who carries a secret, but before he can give any clue as to what it is…

Readers who hate cliffhangers...for this series, you’re going to be willing to move past it. LOL! Why do we say this? Because the rest of the series is available to you. You’re literally going to want to sit down and binge read these books, because yes. That’s how good it is. You’re getting dragons, direwolves, gryphons, phoenixes, orcs, ogres, giants, elves, and so much more.

Heroes of the Siege is a must read and we cannot wait to find out what happens next.

5 out of 5 stars

Title: Heroes of the Siege

Series: The Story of Evil (Volume 1)

Author: Tony Johnson

Genre: Fantasy

Age Category: Young Adult

Page Count: 235 Pages

Publication Date: February 3, 2013

About the Book:

During an entertaining jousting tournament, a mysterious villain attacks the capital with his army. Three young adults decide to fight back against insurmountable odds despite knowing their slim chances of survival.

Follow Stephen Brightflame, a nineteen-year-old who aspires to become a knight, Tyrus Canard, an arrogant warrior, and Kari Quinn, a Halfling archer in this first volume in the five-part series, "The Story of Evil."

It has been raved for its “intense action scenes,” “riveting twists,” and a conclusion that “leaves you on the edge of your seat” (SPR and US Review of Books).

                                                              Grab your copy today! 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20352036-heroes-of-the-siege

Amazon: https://a.co/d/iOjnLex (USA) https://amzn.eu/d/9kXElTr (UK) https://a.co/d/8SBJgOY (Canada)

About the Author:

Tony Johnson is the author of the The Story of Evil, an epic fantasy saga. Tony is an avid reader. He enjoys fantasy, classics, and Christian literature. He is a fan of movies, television, music, videogames, and sports. From Batavia, NY.

 

The Siege of Corell Review Spotlight

 

Terin and company are back in The Siege of Corell. We hope you're ready and excited for what's coming, because it's going to be an epic ride! 

The Siege of Corell is book two in the Chronicles of Arax series. Terin and his friends are still fighting the good fight against Tyro, but there have been and will continue to be losses as innocents die at the claws and teeth of the gargoyles. There is only so much that they can do against the blood-thirsty creatures.

But the stakes are only getting higher! Book one left readers with a cliffhanger of "What is going to happen next." Terin now has Tyro's people hunting him because of a necklace that his father gave him. Cronus? He gets free from one problem and finds himself almost immediately in another. Will these people just let him go free? No? Okay, well, that just makes sense because we need and want a story. LOL! 

Cronus has managed to be freed from the dungeons. Great news, right? What is the next problem? Getting to safety. Oy-vee. That's not going to be easy, especially with another of the group of friends being hunted - Raven. Raven, you better watch out because Tosha is coming for you! Honestly, I don't know who he should hope to find him first, but I'm leaning toward Tosha. If it's one of Tyro's other minions then it won't be good for him, that's for sure! 

Noticeably less seen in this book will be Raven and the crew. It will be a bit disappointing especially since his crew tends to bring a good amount of drama, but some humor, too. We can't help but be fans of theirs especially when their android brings some unexpected wise-cracks so effortlessly. 

Author Sanford continues this series giving readers a wide variety of characters. Of course, with some losing their lives, and others being captured or simply being forced to go into hiding we get some new ones introduced to keep the storyline going and very much engaging. 

As in book one, this story traverses land and sea, and for some of these characters, by air, as they fight to keep Arax from falling completely into Tyro's vicious grip. The gargoyles continue to be a problem that will not be easily dealt with. They have been around for a long time, and appear to be the intended thorn in the side of the defenders. 

Terin especially continues to grow as a character. He's learning more about himself and the sword that he carries. His skill continues to grow and develop, but he's learning to not completely depend on the sword. Because what should happen if he loses it in the middle of a battle? If you've read book one, you'll know that might be a touch far-fetched to believe, but anything is possible. 

Author Sanford is going to throw in more than a twist or two with this book, so brace yourself. They will come in the most unexpected places and probably cue a jaw-drop or two. We personally delighted in every single one of them.

True to form Author Sanford is going to leave readers on a cliffhanger when it comes to the end of The Siege of Corell. Things may have worked out well for our friends overall in this installment, but the future, for us, is unknown and we will have to wait and see what comes next for young Terin, Cronus, Raven and the others we have come to know throughout this series thus far. 

Pros: 

Page-turner

Great storytelling

Interesting characters

Twists and surprises

Cons: 

Some of the characters were lacking in appearance

5 out of 5 stars

AMAZON: https://amzn.to/3UnieN4 

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-chronicles-of-arax-benjamin-sanford/1141585286?ean=9781662457364

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-siege-of-corell/20730730?ean=9798988624929
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195882083-the-siege-of-corell
Author Website: https://stenoxpublishing.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14495555.Benjamin_Sanford iReads
Book Tour Page: https://www.ireadbooktours.com/blog---current-tours/bookstagrambooktok-tour-the-chronicles-of-arax-books-one-two-by-benjamin-sanford  

Way of the Wizard Review Spotlight

 

Your next fantasy read is here. 

Way of the Wizard is the first book in author Michael Michel’s newest series, and whether you are a fan of this author or not...DO. NOT. MISS. THIS. BOOK! This epic fantasy novel is just the beginning, and it is packed with a gripping storyline, fantastical creatures, and the promise of more to come.

The first thing that is going to catch your attention for the Way of the Wizard is the amazing cover. Depicted on the front is a character who appears to be a wizard. Magic flows from his hands down to the ground, and standing in front of him is...a minotaur! This is no regular minotaur. Ooooohhhh no. No, author Michel is giving readers one with four arms. Yes, people! Four!

But this is not some mindless creature people! Oh no! Don’t for one second think that. You’ll notice the lines of blue that streak across and around his body...those are the magical “chains” that bind him. As you read this book, you’ll understand exactly what this creature truly is. So get excited people! Honestly, if this cover alone doesn’t have you racing off to grab this book, I don’t know what will. Okay, well, maybe the promise of an engaging storyline. Because honestly, this book? Yeah, it’s definitely got that.

For now? Let’s go ahead and get into what you can expect from this story.

Readers who are familiar with Michael Michel know that they are going to get a fascinating story with a character who is more than likely going to have a tough road ahead. Is it a path that will be insurmountable? Well, what fun would that be if that were the case? Will the main character have a tough road ahead that will challenge them and push them to become more? Absolutely! One thing is for sure...this book will keep you page-turning to the end.

Way of the Wizard is the story of El. He’s a 16-year-old boy living in poverty with his mother in a small village. For one so young, El has already lost so much. He watched almost every one of his family members die one by one. It’s truly heartbreaking. His sister? Murdered by the Stormseye Brotherhood. The rest of his family? Starvation and disease. Only his mother is left to him, and she is slowly succumbing to disease tortuously slow. It’s heartbreaking knowing that El is having to watch his mother suffer like this and that he can do little to nothing. But does he get to be there in her final moments? No. Why? Well, you’ll have to read to find out.

All we’ll tell you is that El is forced to leave her, and when he comes back to his home...she’s gone. What happened to her? Well, that’s where author Michel allows readers to use their imagination and piece together what happened to her and what her final moments might have been like.

El crosses paths with an Elder though. Who is this strange man? What is this object that he offers El that he says will take him down a path that promises new opportunities? You must be brave if you are to succeed. But when the opportunity to become a Seeker is offered...it is one that El views has hard to pass up.

It’s no small thing to run into the wilderness, but that is the task that El is set with by the Elder. Opportunity only knocks once...but sometimes...your destiny will give you a second chance.

Way of the Wizard is a novel that moves at a pretty quick clip. You are constantly plagued with the question of “What is going to happen next?” when it comes to El’s story. When the storyline takes a certain path, you can’t help but wonder where is El’s journey going to take him.

One can easily guess that as this is book one of a new series by author Michel that El’s story will end soon in this book or anytime soon. If that were the case then we really wouldn’t have much of a story now, would we? LOL! Granted, his friend Trin could pick up his story by choosing to chase after him, but while he thinks of her often, she’s but a side character for the moment.

El is just 16, soon to be 17, but life doesn’t care. He’s going to have to work hard to prove himself if he is to achieve his dream of becoming a wizard. The object that he is given will be his guide, but only if he does EXACTLY as it says. Any deviation will lead to a destruction and there will be no coming back for him. It’s not easy to always follow what you are instructed to do, but if he can do that? Well, you can guess that success will be in his future.

Way of the Wizard has an interesting cast of characters. El is the main focus of the story as the story is told from his perspective. El shows some juvenile attributes, but in this world that author Michel has created, El is going to have to do some growing up...and quickly. The good news? He’s going to have some help along the way. El will make a friend or two along the way when he is found by and joins a cabal. You’ll find that the wizard who takes him in doesn’t expect much of him. In fact, this wizard has such low expectations of El that he doesn’t believe that El will live past 6 months. Talk about setting the bar low! LOL! Granted, El is determined to prove him wrong. #TeamEl all the way!

With some guidance and sheer determination El progressively improves a day at a time. One element that we appreciate about this book is that author Michel doesn’t rush the storyline. This isn’t a story of where one day El is struggling to throw a spear and hit a target, and then within a week he’s a “pro.” No, you get to watch as El gradually improves. Of course, that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t get thrown into the deep end a few times.

Hoping for some fantastical creatures? Be patient! They are coming! We may or may not have done a few rounds of excited bouncing when author Michel introduces certain monsters at various points throughout the story. When the minotaur featured on the cover makes an appearance we became GLUED to the pages. Honestly, it was like author Michel was reading our mind when we started to wonder “When exactly is the monster featured on the cover going to make an appearance?” Trust us...it’s worth the wait, but there will be others to draw you in in the meantime.

Way of the Wizard is a “short-ish” novel when it comes to an “epic fantasy.” But don’t let that get you down. Every page gives you another fascinating aspect of the story. There is nothing boring to be found within the pages of the Way of the Wizard. We can promise you that. Now, are you wondering if there is a cliffhanger ending? Kinda sorta? LOL! Honestly, we got in a bit of a huff when the book comes to a bit of an “abrupt” end, but it was honestly a good stopping point. We know you’ll agree when you read this book. LOL!

Look at this way though! You’ll be excited for book two! Way of the Wizard is honestly one of our top favorite books of 2024. Author Michel does an excellent job keeping readers engaged in the fate of his main character, El. Pay attention to the small details because the author is laying the groundwork and some hints for what will be to come concerning El and some individuals he may know. Things are just getting started and we can’t wait for more.

Pros:

• Great storytelling
• Engaging storyline
• Interesting characters
• Fantastic creatures
• Nice attention to detail

Cons:

• None of merit

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Michael Michel, for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

Fantasy book lovers unite and grab this book!  

Road Kill Texas Horror Vol 8 Anthology Review Spotlight

Looking for something darkly delicious? Well, Black Tide Book Tours and HellBound Books has got you covered! Brace yourself for a book packed with twisted horror stories from the minds of some pretty epic Texans. Read on at your own risk! Hope you enjoy! 

 Road Kill Texas Horror by Texas Writers Vol 8 is packed from stem to stern with horror novels written by...yep, you guessed it, Texas authors. So, basically what we’re getting is some of the best quality work you can find out there, right? Because Texas is just that great. LOL! Hey! Stop looking at me like that...I’m completely UNbiased here. So I claim as a Texan myself and proud of it. LOL!

But for real, for real...this anthology is packed with horrorific tales from the twisted minds of many of these authors that will leave you with a mixed bag of reactions. Some will draw you in and keep you page-turning...to the rather abrupt endings that they tease you with. While others will leave you with the macabre horrors that their characters suffered and the twisted fates that saw their ultimate downfall.

In Road Kill Texas Horror, there is a little something for everyone. You’re going to get stories that take you back in time before racism became the more “toned-down” entity that it is today. You’re going to get stories that will flick at your conscious like a snake’s tongue as it hunts for its next victim. You’re going to be treated to stories with ghosts that re-enter the world through a portal that...honestly...should not be, but hey...who cares about the “rules” when horror? Horror is meant to break them like bones and grind them into dust.

There are some seriously delicious hidden gems tucked away inside this anthology. Twisted stories that will grip you and keep you coming back for more. The desire riding you hard to find out...how does this play out for this particular character? What twisted fate does this author have in store for them? Bring on the macabre you’ll shout! But don’t say it too loud or something just might answer...and not in the way you’ll be hoping.

With the start of Road Kill Texas Horror you are gifted an introduction by Bret McCormick. This individual tells you about all the submissions that they went through to piece together this particular anthology. A lot of work and detail went into it, that’s for sure. A lot of rejections from the sounds of it as this person went to the lengths of trying to find the perfect collection to bring this anthology to life. Were they successful in their endeavors? Well, all readers are fickle creatures, and we are no exception. Some will say yes, others...eh, not so much. But all that matters at the end of the day dear reader...is you.

This collection starts things off with a story that will challenge your conscious. It will beg the moral question concerning the young character who is the focus of this story. “What would you have done, if you were in her shoes?” “Lonely Death on a Wednesday, 1 pm, at a Motel Outside Marfa, is a story that sticks with you in the most intriguing way. Is because there is a gruesome murder with blood spatter everywhere? No. Is it a tragic death of someone who has been left to rot in an abandoned motel room completely forgotten? No. It’s a tragedy that could have been avoided.

The young character who bears witness to the tragedy...is written as aloof. Like there is some form of disconnect concerning the child. But what is it exactly? You’ll find yourself questioning her behavior. You’ll honestly find yourself questioning the entire scene that unfolds. It’s a sad tale, but brings more of a horror of humanity to the forefront.

Nature lovers...or haters...LOL! Whichever end of the spectrum you may find yourself on...”Nature Calls” by E.R. Bills is going to be one that either you’re going to greedily devour...or one that will have you forever swearing off any outdoor excursions. Ya know...just in case something that is depicted in this twisted story...could actually happen. LOL!

The beginning of “Nature Calls” starts out interestingly enough. Something fast, huge, and scary is killing humans. What is it? Well, author Bills insists on keeping you in the dark. What could it be? What is it? Is there any way to escape this dangerous thing as it appears to destroy everything it crosses?

Well, we recommend that you settle in on this story, because the interesting bits? They’re scattered throughout...much like how this creature leaves it’s victims. Too soon? LOL! Though, when the revelation comes of what it is...and the acceptance of the characters...well, that’s going to take some time, but it’s worth it. The ending? Jaw-dropping.

Want to know which one pretty much blew our mind? Well, that’s easy enough...”That’s a Peculiar Stain on the Carpet.” This story...this one we should have recorded our facial reactions because...boooooy howdy! We did NOT see any of author Jae Mazer’s twisted imagination coming at us by a long shot. This book is packed with twisted elements that are NOT for the faint of heart. For some readers...it’s going to be down right cringy. So...you’ve been warned. Proceed with caution. LOL! But honestly? For us? The weirder, the better, and author Mazer delivers in spades. We didn’t like some of the elements of this book *coughs – the cat scene* especially, but this is one of the stories where you just cannot predict what is going to happen next. Honestly, those are the best kinds. LOL!

Another story that we absolutely devoured? “Sundown” by Jonathan Louis Duckworth. OMG! This is another one that just grabbed us and kept us page-turning to the end. Anything with some form of twisted lore, and the consequences in dabbling in it...we are going to eat it up. Author Duckworth takes his time laying out the foundation for what’s coming, but the wait is worth every second! While you’re waiting, you’re not bored. You’re curious about the characters. Your curiosity is going to drive you to dig deeper and to learn more. It’s absolutely riveting.

Now, we could give you a taste or glimpse about more stories in this collection, but then...what would motivate you to grab a copy and dive in yourself? So, we’ll leave things with those few that we’ve given you a tiny taste of. There is literally something for everyone in this collection. Some will keep you page-turning, while others...(for us) may end up lulling you to sleep. But one thing is for sure...Texas is beautifully represented in this collective of twisted deliciousness.

Horror lovers unite, because Road Kill Texas Horror is not be missed...or you’ll regret it.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Pros:

• Gripping stories
• Twisted characters
• Twisted situations
• Deliciously gorey
• Page-turners

Cons:

• None of true merit

A huge shout out thank you to all of the authors who participated in this anthology, HellBound Books, and Black Tide Book tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! It was a lot of fun! As always, I look forward to what comes next with Black Tide Book Tours and the darkly delicious books from HellBound books.  

Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas Writers - Vol 8

by Texas Authors; Compiled & Edited by Patrick C Harrison III

Black Tide Book Tours

May 7-10

Mind the moon when you leave the theater! Road Kill: Texas Horror by Texas Writers returns, and Vol. 8 definitely goes Splatterbump in the night!

It’s a monstrous mosh of fallen angels, prepubescent prescience, tempestuous incest, intergalactic blues, a Gulliverian massacre, cynophile racists, murderous rodents, a prehistoric Devil Head, the return of Bram Stoker’s forgotten hero, and so much more...

Featuring stories from the grand master of horror himself, Joe R. Lansdale, Emma E. Murray, Jae Mazer, Bret McCormick, Madison Estes, Chris Miller, James H. Longmore, Jonathan Louis Duckworth, Robert Stahl, Matt Micheli, Elford Alley, Iphigenia Strangeworth, Jacob Austin, R. L. Olvitt, Lawrence Buentello, Tom Bont, Bev Vincent, and the incomparable E. R. Bills.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Editor

Patrick C. Harrison III (PC3, if you prefer) is an author of horror, splatterpunk, and all forms of speculative fiction. His current publications include GRANDPAPPY, 100% MATCH, A SAVAGE BREED, and VAMPIRE NUNS BEHIND BARS, among others. His works can also be found in various anthologies, including AND HELL FOLLOWED and ROAD KILL: TEXAS HORROR BY TEXAS AUTHORS VOL. 4.

PC3 is also an editor, having worked on numerous books for Death's Head Press, D&T Publishing, and Fedowar Press, as well for popular authors like Aron Beauregard and Danel J. Volpe. For editing services, feel free to contact PC3 at pc3@pc3horror.com.

Follow PC3's FREE substack—pc3horror.substack.com—for frequent horror and exploitation movie reviews, as well as updates on his fiction.

About the Publisher

HellBound Books are the veritable tour de force in the independent publishing world — for eight years and counting, they have published novels, novellas, and bestselling anthologies of exemplary horror, bizarro, and all things dark — the type of tales from exciting new authors guaranteed to keep you wide awake in the small hours and checking the inky-black, coagulating shadows beneath your bed just one last time…
They are incredibly proud to be champions of the newest, brightest upcoming authors as well as home to more established writers. Their objective is to bring to you — wonderful readers — the very best in the dark genres. They are proud to say all HellBound Books titles are available in traditional-sized paperback and ebook, along with a few very special hard cover books, too.

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