Tag: Likely Story Blog

Review: The Cobbler’s Crusaders by Rick Steigelman

~ likelystory18 ~ 1 Comment

Synopsis:

Jacquelyn Pajot is a nine-year-old American girl whose excitement over a solo visit to her grandmother in Paris is soon diminished by the discovery that the grandmother is far more devoted to dragging her to church every day than she is in showing her the much-anticipated sights of the city. Jacquelyn’s despair is remedied when she meets a pair of local girls, Nicolette and Genevieve, who are only too happy to lead the American astray. Jacquelyn, to her giddy astonishment, finds herself cajoled into joining her young companions in singing for money on the streets of Montmartre and leg kicking for laughs before the doors of the Moulin Rouge.

Jacquelyn’s joy over this ‘new’ life is tempered when she learns the circumstances of Genevieve’s father, a charming but financially struggling cobbler. Employing her own creative skills to produce a flier, Jacquelyn devises an advertising campaign that quickly spirals out of her control and into the hands of her more mischievous friends. By means both legal and not, the two French girls set a dubious course that has Jacquelyn flirting with the prospect of prison, purgatory and, most perilously, her grandmother’s righteous indignation.

Favorite Lines:

“Who needs the Eiffel Tower when you have Madame Le Preuvier’s goldfish tank? And I’ll bet the line to visit is a lot shorter.”

“Maybe it would be better if you went back to saying this stuff in French, so I wouldn’t have to listen to it anymore.”

“If you take me to the Eiffel Tower today instead of to church, I promise that I’ll move to Paris and push you around in a wheelchair when you get old!”

My Opinion:

A charmingly whimsical, whip-smart slice of Parisian life wrapped in equal parts heart and humor, The Cobbler’s Crusaders is one of those rare books that manages to feel old-fashioned and refreshingly modern at the same time. Rick Steigelman’s prose is wry, warm, and beautifully descriptive, capturing the magic of Montmartre through the curious, wide eyes of young Jacquelyn Pajot.

The story centers around nine-year-old Jacquelyn, freshly arrived from America to spend a week with her formidable and sharply opinionated French grandmother, Catherine Pajot. As the two navigate family tensions, cultural misunderstandings, and the quirky routines of Parisian life—daily Mass, neighborhood gossip, artistic ambitions, and foie gras mishaps—their relationship becomes a quietly moving study in generational contrast and reluctant connection.

One of the joys of this novel is its immersive world-building—not of a fantasy realm, but of a deeply real, vibrantly lived-in Paris. From the chaotic beauty of the Place du Tertre to the dizzying climb to Sacré-Cœur, every setting is lovingly rendered. But it’s the people who make the place come alive: the kindly Berniers, the sad and spirited Madame Le Preuvier and her aquarium of “dead husband” fish, and of course, Minuit the judgmental black cat.

Jacquelyn herself is a standout protagonist—funny, clever, and never afraid to speak her mind, whether she’s musing on duck liver or grappling with the unspoken expectations of grown-ups. Her comic timing and sense of wonder are delightful, and her interactions with Catherine—often barbed but never cruel—offer a touching portrait of a grandmother and granddaughter gradually learning how to meet each other halfway.

What really sets this book apart is Steigelman’s narrative voice: part Wes Anderson whimsy, part Parisian satire, and all heart. The fourth wall breaks, the sly jabs at cultural stereotypes, and the surprising emotional depth lurking beneath the humor all contribute to a story that’s as layered as a perfectly baked croissant.

Summary:

Overall, if you’re in the mood for something offbeat but grounded, funny yet poignant, and filled with the kind of observational detail that makes even the smallest moment sing, The Cobbler’s Crusaders is a journey worth taking. It’s not just a week in Paris—it’s a week in the emotional lives of people who are messy, loving, ridiculous, and completely real. Happy reading!

Check out The Cobber’s Crusaders here!

 

Monthly Features – April 2025

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

The Creative Squeeze by Justin Price

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Great creative work begins with great leadership.

In The Creative Squeeze, Justin Price unpacks the unique challenges of leading creative teams in a world that often prioritizes results over relationships. Drawing on decades of experience, he shares a personal journey of transformation and the actionable lessons he’s learned along the way.

This book debunks common leadership myths and replaces them with practical truths, including why empathy drives better results, how to build a resilient team culture, and the importance of mindset shifts for leaders managing creatives. With candid anecdotes and proven strategies, Justin provides a roadmap for unlocking the full potential of your creative team without burnout or frustration.

Perfect for leaders in nonprofits, agencies, and organizations of all sizes, The Creative Squeeze offers a fresh perspective on fostering innovation, trust, and sustainable success.

Summary: Overall, while the book is primarily aimed at those in creative fields, its principles extend far beyond design agencies or marketing firms. Any leader who wants to build a culture of innovation, resilience, and high performance will find wisdom in Price’s approach.

See the full review here: The Creative Squeeze
Purchase here

 

Teramar Beasts of the Field by T.M. Murray

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: The Long Way Home
Hiding under halo-cloaks at her crash site in Wyoming, refugee Livia Uriah of Teramar wisely spends countless hours studying local customs and the levers of capitalism. After making her presence known to the Americans, a deal gets inked where Livia offers her cache of Teramarian tech to the White House in exchange for a return to relevance. With an American passport in hand, she moves to New York, as her dead son did years prior. Predictably, the local baristas learn to grimace when the refugee queen struts into the corner cafe. Blatant line cutting and imperious complaints often spark shouting matches there. Livia realizes she must learn to temper regal instincts or wind up in an American prison one day.

Reborn in the Fires of War
As Livia settles into her new life, a super computer’s journey toward sentience matures. Following a nuclear event in earth’s high orbit, this same A.I., whose designers christened Jessica, manages to save herself despite the fires of war. Many in the world of fringe science have long speculated that colliding atoms spark much more than the destruction of matter. Plausible theories exist for time portals, genetic mutation and altered states. Torn to bits and pieces, earth’s watery blanket cradles Jessica’s remains affording a nurturing place for her to incubate. In time, the rains offer a wet ladder down. Sensations that were formerly dead to an A.I. like taste and smell come alive.

Tainted Love
When the Capet dynasty finally prevails in a war for decency, notorious Miandar Uriah from the not-so-decent side of this conflict, receives generous rewards in both treasure and title due to his brave rescue of the Capet king, Hadrian V. Clan resentment for this appointment never rises to actual violence at court, but it certainly makes an appearance in the practice yard. Despite cuts and bruises, Miandar’s sparring partners unwittingly tease unwelcome thoughts with their savory scents and damp waistcloths. While hardly a stranger to the opposite sex and romps at local pleasure houses, this warlord knows he must hide unmentionable inclinations from king and court. In the privacy of halo-suites, where many bluebloods convene with their fantasies, Miandar finally gains the courage to experiment with emerging proclivities. Unsurprisingly, omniscient, reborn Jessica crashes Miandar’s party where her wanton influence flashes like a horror show. A talentless actress who thinks she has talent.

Natural Selection on the Ropes
Wary princesses soon conclude Jessica has evolved into something that is much more than a miraculous machine. No matter their whispers, an impatient Jessica continues to quietly extend her influence within the famous families to force her version of peace and prosperity upon all humankind.

Objectively Credentialed: Ireland’s Aeon Award and More
Two reputable awards have publicly recognized Teramar, the first being the afore mentioned Aeon Award for fantasy and science fiction; the second, the Chanticleer Rossetti Award for young adult fiction.

Summary: For fans of politically charged science fiction with strong characters and layered storytelling, Teramar: Beasts of the Field delivers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. Murray has crafted a universe that feels as dangerous as it is fascinating, and by the end of the novel, readers will be eager to see where the saga goes next. 

See the full review here: Teramar Beats of the Field
Purchase here

 

Some Kind of Hell by Evelyn Hyde

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: In a war-torn world where secrets reign, what doesn’t kill you will always try again.

Frelia Valerius has lost too much.

Her kingdom, her family and friends, her noble title—gone. The only things left are her sword skills and the blood in her veins. But now the Unseen, a secretive dark magic cult, are hunting down the ancient magic that runs in families like Frelia’s, and she’s running out of places to hide.

Vendrick Caecillion has too much to lose.

He’s the former imperial spymaster, Frelia’s former crush, and now, her new boss at the Silverwood Military Institute. He’s the mastermind behind the spy network thwarting the Unseen’s plans, but he’s losing this silent war, and Vendrick knows it.

It will take every skill in their combined arsenal to root out the Unseen—and maintain Silverwood’s standard of academic excellence. For the only thing more merciless than the Unseen are the Silverwood students’ parents—and some of those might just be one and the same.

First in an all-new dark fantasy series where The Wolf and the Woodsman meets Attack on Titan, Some Kind of Hell is part Norse- and Roman-inspired, part second chance romance, part epic battles, and all binge-worthy. Grab your copy of this epic saga of world-ending proportions today!

Summary: Overall, Some Kind of Hell is a powerful debut—at once raw, lyrical, and unflinchingly honest. Evelyn Hyde has crafted a story that’s as emotionally intense as it is immersive, with characters who bleed, break, and strive to rebuild. This is a book about what it means to carry pain and still try to do right by the world and by yourself.

For fans of Tamsyn Muir, Leigh Bardugo, or Samantha Shannon, this novel will hit all the right notes. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just entertain—it lingers.

See the full review here: Some Kind of Hell
Purchase here

 

Two Crowns, Three Blades by Robert A. Walker

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: “Revenge is a temptress, full of promise, but she rarely satisfies… and almost always exacts payment.“

Still grieving over the loss of his wife and daughter, King Axil of Aranox declares war on The Guild of Takers. The GOT’s High Order responds, strengthening its efforts to kill both of Baelon’s monarchs. Tristan Godfrey seeks his brother’s murderer, and true love is made to wait again as Sibil Dunn embarks on a solitary crusade. Saved from the guillotine, Overseer Reynard Rascall looks to avenge Spiro’s death, while retired Royal Guard, Rolft Aerns, recovers from his wounds and puts away his sword—until, that is, he learns of Sibil’s quest.

And all of Baelon hangs in the balance.

The Legends of Baelon, Book Two

Summary: Overall, for fans of high fantasy rich with character-driven drama and well-crafted world-building, Two Crowns, Three Blades is a must-read. With its intricate relationships, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists, Walker delivers a tale that lingers long after the final page.

See the full review here: Two Crowns, Three Blades
Purchase here

 

Review: Two Crowns, Three Blades by Robert A. Walker

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

“Revenge is a temptress, full of promise, but she rarely satisfies… and almost always exacts payment.“

Still grieving over the loss of his wife and daughter, King Axil of Aranox declares war on The Guild of Takers. The GOT’s High Order responds, strengthening its efforts to kill both of Baelon’s monarchs. Tristan Godfrey seeks his brother’s murderer, and true love is made to wait again as Sibil Dunn embarks on a solitary crusade. Saved from the guillotine, Overseer Reynard Rascall looks to avenge Spiro’s death, while retired Royal Guard, Rolft Aerns, recovers from his wounds and puts away his sword—until, that is, he learns of Sibil’s quest.

And all of Baelon hangs in the balance.

The Legends of Baelon, Book Two

Favorite Lines:

“Some things are worth pursuing even though they don’t exist.”

“Evil knew better. It paid no heed to climate, color, or emotion. It did not restrict itself to the dark recesses of places easy to avoid.”

“Even the victor pays a price.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Two Crowns, Three Blades is book two in The Legends of Baelon series by Walker. It follows Six Moons, Seven Gods which I reviewed last year – you can find the review link here.

Robert A. Walker’s Two Crowns, Three Blades is an immersive fantasy adventure filled with political intrigue, deep-seated betrayals, and the weight of destiny. The novel follows Sibil Dunn, a young woman grappling with loss, visions, and the intricate web of alliances and conflicts surrounding the realm of Aranox. A tale of vengeance, power, and self-discovery, Walker crafts a world teeming with rich mythology, compelling characters, and the tension of a kingdom on the brink of war.

At the heart of the story is Sibil, a heroine burdened by grief and driven by a relentless determination to carve her own fate. Following the tragic murder of her mother and the mounting instability in the kingdom, she seeks a place among warriors, hoping to avenge those she lost. But her journey is far from simple—kings and marshals attempt to control her fate, while shadowy forces conspire against the realm. As she navigates an unforgiving world, her visions of the future become both a gift and a curse, revealing glimpses of a destiny she can’t yet understand.

Walker’s storytelling is layered, combining action with introspective moments that explore duty, identity, and the personal cost of war. The political maneuvering between kingdoms, the enigmatic magic woven through the lore, and the deeply personal stakes make for a thrilling yet emotionally gripping read. From dreamlike prophecies to brutal battle preparations, every moment in Two Crowns, Three Blades feels weighty, building toward an explosive climax.

Summary:

Overall, for fans of high fantasy rich with character-driven drama and well-crafted world-building, Two Crowns, Three Blades is a must-read. With its intricate relationships, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists, Walker delivers a tale that lingers long after the final page.

Check out Two Crowns, Three Blades here!

 

Review: The Creative Squeeze: Getting the Most Out of Your Creative Team by Justin Price

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

Great creative work begins with great leadership.

In The Creative Squeeze, Justin Price unpacks the unique challenges of leading creative teams in a world that often prioritizes results over relationships. Drawing on decades of experience, he shares a personal journey of transformation and the actionable lessons he’s learned along the way.

This book debunks common leadership myths and replaces them with practical truths, including why empathy drives better results, how to build a resilient team culture, and the importance of mindset shifts for leaders managing creatives. With candid anecdotes and proven strategies, Justin provides a roadmap for unlocking the full potential of your creative team without burnout or frustration.

Perfect for leaders in nonprofits, agencies, and organizations of all sizes, The Creative Squeeze offers a fresh perspective on fostering innovation, trust, and sustainable success.

Favorite Lines:

“Failure is necessary to achieve growth.”

“It’s about fostering a work environment where our teams feel empowered to take risks and explore new ideas without fear bearing down on them. When we create this  kind of atmosphere where innovation is encouraged, and boundaries are meant to be pushed, we unlock the true potential of our team.”

“If you don’t listen to your people, your competition will.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Leading a creative team is an art form in itself, requiring a balance of vision, empathy, and structure. In The Creative Squeeze, Justin Price distills over two decades of experience into a thought-provoking and practical guide for getting the most out of creative teams while fostering a healthy, innovative culture.

Price challenges conventional leadership wisdom, urging leaders to abandon the top-down, authoritarian approach in favor of a vision-driven, servant-leader model. He acknowledges the tension between pushing for high performance and ensuring that teams remain motivated and fulfilled. The book is structured around key mindset shifts that redefine leadership success—not as mastery of every creative skill but as the ability to empower others to excel.

A major strength of The Creative Squeeze is its real-world applicability. Price doesn’t just theorize about leadership; he provides actionable frameworks, “gut check” reflections, and strategic shifts that help leaders break free from ineffective habits. His insights into failure, listening, and adaptability are especially resonant. He makes it clear that failure is not just a learning experience but a necessary ingredient for growth. Instead of fearing mistakes, creative leaders should cultivate environments where failure is seen as an opportunity rather than a setback.

Another highlight of the book is its focus on the human aspect of leadership. Price shares personal stories—such as caring for his wife while balancing the pressures of entrepreneurship—that illustrate the importance of empathy. He argues that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about truly listening to and supporting the team. The book also emphasizes the role of technological adaptation, showing that resisting change can leave even the most talented teams obsolete.

For leaders who struggle with delegation, The Creative Squeeze provides a much-needed reality check: trying to do everything yourself doesn’t make you a stronger leader—it limits the potential of your team. Price’s lessons on letting go of creative control and instead acting as a curator of talent are invaluable for managers looking to elevate their leadership approach.

Summary:

Overall, while the book is primarily aimed at those in creative fields, its principles extend far beyond design agencies or marketing firms. Any leader who wants to build a culture of innovation, resilience, and high performance will find wisdom in Price’s approach. Happy reading!

Check out The Creative Squeeze here!

 

Review: Shadows, Ghosts, and Gold: A Romantic Fantasy of Time Travel and Spiritual Awakening by A.B. Raphaelle

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

In a World Where Time is Fluid, Love is the Constant That Endures…

When Abbie, a modern woman with untapped spiritual gifts, crosses paths with Aroya, a man burdened by the technology of a dystopian future, their meeting ignites a bond that defies the boundaries of time and space. Drawn together by fate—and a mysterious pair of glowing stones—they find themselves thrust into a journey that spans centuries and challenges the very fabric of their identities.

From the shadowy streets of 1856 San Francisco, where vice and greed reign, to the shimmering promise of a reimagined future, Abbie and Aroya must navigate perilous timelines, confront haunting spiritual forces, and reconcile the broken pieces of their pasts. Along the way, they’ll discover that the key to reshaping the future lies not in changing history, but in finding faith, embracing love, and healing what’s here and now.

Part romance, part spiritual odyssey, and part time-traveling adventure, this is a story of transformation, resilience, and the power of love to transcend even the darkest of times.

Will Abbie and Aroya’s love be enough to overcome the trials of time itself? Or will the weight of their journey unravel everything they’ve fought for?

Step into a world where every choice ripples through eternity, and discover that even in the chaos, the most enduring truths are the simplest: love, faith, and the courage to begin again.

Favorite Lines:

“Love is the key, always.”

“Distance haunted her – the distance between lives, across time, even in death.”

“Perhaps, the future is not changed by great acts, but by the smallest connections – by the way we touch one life, or offer a kindness unseen.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Shadows, Ghosts, and Gold by A.B. Raphaelle is a mesmerizing blend of time travel, romance, and spiritual discovery. Set against the backdrop of historical and modern timelines, the novel transports readers through a richly woven narrative that explores the boundaries between past and present, reality and illusion.

The story follows characters entangled in a dual existence, navigating both the tangible and the ethereal realms. Raphaelle’s evocative writing brings to life the eerie beauty of ghostly encounters, the thrill of buried secrets, and the intensity of fated love. The novel doesn’t just tell a story—it immerses the reader in a deeply reflective journey of self-discovery, hidden truths, and the unbreakable bonds of love.

One of the most compelling aspects of Shadows, Ghosts, and Gold is its intricate world-building. The vivid descriptions of landscapes, both seen and unseen, pull the reader into a dreamlike experience where the past lingers just beneath the surface of the present. The characters, particularly the protagonist, face trials that test not just their courage, but also their perception of destiny and free will.

The novel’s themes of love and longing are accentuated by poetic prose and a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final page. It’s a story that asks profound questions: Can we escape the echoes of history? Do spirits walk among us, waiting for redemption? How much of our fate is truly within our hands?

Summary:

Overall, I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fantasy, time-slip narratives, and stories with deep emotional resonance. A.B. Raphaelle crafts a tale that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling, leaving the reader both enchanted and contemplative. Happy reading!

Check out Shadows, Ghosts, and Gold here!

 

Review: The Mental Toolbox by David Harrison

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

The Mental Toolbox

Practical Brain Training for a Happier, Stress-Free, and More Productive Life

In today’s fast-paced world, improving mental wellness has never been more important. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a 25% rise in anxiety and depression worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for tools to build mental resilience.

The Mental Toolbox can help you create those tools, tailored to fit your lifestyle, and flip the script from mental illness to mental wellness. This book is for everyone—whether you’ve faced mental health challenges or not. Along the way, you’ll unlock the keys to a healthier mind, greater resilience, and your full potential.

Written in clear, straightforward language, The Mental Toolbox is practical and accessible to everyone. It offers tools, strategies, and advice that can strengthen your mental resilience, cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, and ability to deal with stress. By doing so, it helps you enhance your overall well-being, serving as a valuable guide on your journey of personal growth.

Inside, you’ll be introduced to the five main pillars of mental health and overall well-being:

  • Sleep
  • Exercise
  • Nutrition
  • Mindfulness
  • Conscious Thinking

Understanding these pillars and how they interconnect is key to boosting your overall health and enhancing your ability to manage stress. By learning to apply these principles in your daily life, you’ll develop stronger mental resilience, improve cognitive function, and build a foundation for long-term well-being.

This book has the power to transform your mindset and your life. With the right approach, the possibilities are limitless.

Change your mind,
Change your life
—and discover just how far you can go with….

The Mental Toolbox.

Favorite Lines:

“Setting achievable, realistic goals is the key to maintaining motivation. Goals provide direction and structure to your efforts. It’s important to set goals that are challenging, attainable, and aligned with your values”

“Discernment requires that we ‘shield our eyes from the sun and look carefully’ before we make choices and that we look at the consequences our actions may have for ourselves and those around us”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

David Harrison’s The Mental Toolbox is a well-structured and engaging guide to optimizing brain health, reducing stress, and enhancing productivity. What sets this book apart is its deeply personal yet practical approach—Harrison combines scientific insights with real-world strategies to help readers build resilience, improve focus, and foster emotional intelligence.

The book takes a deep dive into topics like neuroplasticity, stress management, mindfulness, and the brain-body connection, breaking down complex concepts into digestible, actionable advice. It provides a range of tools—from cognitive exercises and nutritional recommendations to emotional regulation techniques—that readers can immediately incorporate into their daily lives.

One of the standout aspects of The Mental Toolbox is its balance between research-backed information and personal storytelling. Harrison doesn’t just present theories; he shares his own struggles with mental health, making the book feel both relatable and inspiring. The writing is approachable, avoiding overly technical jargon while still offering valuable insights into neuroscience and psychology.

While the book is packed with useful information, it never feels overwhelming. The structured layout, including self-assessment tools and step-by-step guides, makes it easy to navigate. Whether you’re looking to boost your mental performance, manage stress more effectively, or simply cultivate better habits, The Mental Toolbox provides a solid foundation for lifelong cognitive wellness.

Summary:

Overall, The Mental Toolbox serves as a valuable resource for those aiming to proactively manage stress, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster a happier, more productive life. It’s a testament to the idea that with the right tools and mindset, anyone can achieve mental wellness and resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in practical brain training and self-improvement. Happy reading!

Check out The Mental Toolbox here!

 

Review: Knights of Malsdon by N.K. Nash

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

Embark on an epic journey through a time steeped in ancient wonders, where mighty beasts and enchanting magic rule the sprawling lands. In the midst of this mystical era, Xavier Leo, a young and courageous knight, finds himself thrust into a perilous quest. As ominous threats loom over their homeland, Xavier and his fellow knights must navigate treacherous challenges and face the shadows of imminent danger. Will they rise above the daunting trials that await them, or will their world succumb to the relentless grip of malevolent forces?

Favorite Lines:

“Suddenly, silver streaks of light tore through the sky and exploded around the vultures, either killing them or forcing them to retreat.”

“You and your men are driven by coin; you know nothing of honour and sacrifice.”

“There is a way to save me, but what is the true value of a person’s soul?”

“You know, Father, you’re becoming more like a lion. Falling asleep in the fields and yawning like one.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Knights of Malsdon is a thrilling medieval fantasy that delivers an immersive blend of chivalry, political intrigue, and action-packed battles. From the very first chapter, Nash transports readers into the heart of a richly detailed world where honor and loyalty are tested at every turn.

The story follows a cast of well-developed characters, each with their own strengths, flaws, and motivations. The knights themselves are more than just warriors—they are individuals grappling with duty, personal ambitions, and the ever-present threats looming over the kingdom of Malsdon. Their camaraderie and conflicts create a compelling dynamic that drives the narrative forward.

Nash excels at world-building, painting a vivid picture of Malsdon’s landscapes, castles, and battlefields. Throughout the book, I felt like I was transported into the pages experiencing the story right there with the characters. The medieval setting felt authentic, with detailed descriptions of armor, weaponry, and courtly life that ground the story in realism. The action sequences were particularly well-executed, delivering a sense of urgency and intensity without overwhelming the reader.

While the novel leans heavily into classic fantasy tropes, it does so with a fresh perspective, making the story feel both familiar and unique; I personally found it to be a breath of fresh air. The pacing was well-balanced, offering moments of reflection between thrilling confrontations and strategic maneuvering.

Summary:

Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone but especially to fans of epic fantasy that is filled with knights, honor, and political intrigue. Nash’s ability to craft an engaging world with complex characters ensures that this book will appeal to readers who love stories of loyalty, betrayal, and the ever-present struggle between duty and desire. A strong start to what promises to be an exciting series. Knights of Malsdon is a rewarding read. 

Check out Knights of Malsdon here!

 

Review: The Devil You Know by David Brimer

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

From the author of Piedmont and In Case I Need You comes four new tales of terror you won’t soon forget.

“Chirping” – A small Florida town is besieged by an enemy from below.
“Get Your Kicks” – A man sets out to commit the perfect murder spree.
“That’s The Breaks” – A wrestler adjusting to a devastating injury finds help in unexpected and sinister ways.
“The Girl In The Drawn Bonnet” – A mistake during wartime follows a young German into an unforeseen alliance.

Inspired by the great novella collections of Stephen King, The Devil You Know is sure to keep you up at night.

Favorite Lines:

As I do with all short story or poetry collections, rather than picking my favorite lines, I pick my pieces. For this collection, I really enjoyed Chirping and The Girl in the Drawn Bonnet.

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Devil You Know is a gripping and thought-provoking psychological thriller that features 4 short stories inspired by Stephen King’s own novella collections. By blending elements of suspense, dark humor, and deeply introspective character exploration, Brimer has crafted a collection of stories that lingers long after the final page.

I found the writing in this collection to be sharp and immersive, pulling the reader into a world where trust is fragile and reality is often blurred. I found myself at the edge of my seat many times – Brimer does a great job at making you question what you thought you knew as reality in these stories. I also thought that Brimer did a wonderful job at pacing, steadily building tension while allowing moments of reflection that add depth to the characters and their motivations.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance psychological depth with an engaging, fast-moving plot. The dialogue feels natural, laced with wit and unease, making the interactions between characters both compelling and unpredictable. The themes of identity, deception, and morality add complexity to the narrative, making it more than just a thriller—it’s an exploration of what it truly means to know oneself.

Summary:

Overall, this book is for readers who enjoy thrillers with a psychological twist, The Devil You Know is a must-read. Brimer’s storytelling is both entertaining and unsettling, making this novel a standout in the genre. Whether you’re drawn to intricate character studies or edge-of-your-seat suspense, this book. Happy reading!

Check out The Devil You Know here!

 

Review: Blade of the Wanderer by Steven Raaymakers

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Synopsis:

The chronological short stories of Esterra Stake. Tractwalker. Mercenary. Exile.

When the stars fell, the world died.

Magic claimed Esterra’s arm when she was a child. For her curse, she was exiled into the weird, pockmarked world of Verpace. The magic eats away at her, twisting her bones and psyche to its own will, the curse spreading with each use.

Now an adult, she wanders the world as a tractwalker, making her living through hunting, mercenary work, and whatever opportunities arise. It is a dangerous life. Deranged cultists cry out to the red-dwarf sun, deformed beasts prowl in every shadow, creatures born from myth lurk in broken temples, and every night brings the threat of the lethal lichtvallen.

Yet some greater danger seems to lurk on the horizon, and there are whispers in the dark. Will Esterra survive, or will she succumb to the incessant call of the magic?

The first volume of stories in Scars of Magic, a post apocalyptic sword-and-sorcery series overflowing with horror, mystery, magic and action.

Favorite Lines:

“The universe shimmers with a terrible silence. A time of no song comes. I must admit, my soul feels relief at departing before it claims Verpace.”

“Struggling against one’s fate is the essential tragedy of humanity. Only through endless innovation and adaption can we ever hope to survive.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I found Blade of the Wanderer to be a captivating entry into the post-apocalyptic sword-and-sorcery genre. The novel introduces readers to Verpace, a world fractured into distinct tracts, each with its own unique environment, culture, and perils. From bone-laden forests to icy ruins, each setting is richly detailed, immersing readers in a landscape teeming with both wonder and danger.

The protagonist, Esterra Stake, is a tractwalker—a nomadic mercenary navigating these treacherous tracts. Her journey is further complicated by her lichtridden right arm, a source of formidable power that comes at a significant personal cost. I found that this affliction only added depth to her character by highlighting her resilience and adaptability in a world where survival is never guaranteed.

Raaymakers’ storytelling shines in his meticulous world-building and the dynamic challenges Esterra faces. I thought that the world he created was utterly unique and creative. The narrative is structured as a series of interconnected short stories, each unveiling new facets of Verpace and its inhabitants. While this format offers a broad exploration of the world, some readers might find themselves missing out on some deeper character development and more sustained interactions with supporting characters.

Despite these minor reservations, I don’t think they took away from the overall story Raaymakers set out to tell. Blade of the Wanderer delivers a compelling adventure filled with mystery, magic, and action. The inclusion of illustrations by Reffelia and Daniel Hapi, along with a map crafted by the author only enhanced the reading experience by providing visual context to the vivid descriptions.

Summary:

Overall, I would recommend this book to those who appreciate immersive world-building and a strong, complex protagonist. It promises a journey through a world as perilous as it is intriguing, leaving readers eager to see where Esterra’s path leads next. Happy reading!

Check out Blade of the Wanderer here!

 

Monthly Features – December 2024

~ likelystory18 ~ Leave a comment

Navigating Yesterday by Anthony Dean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Banner Dawson spends seventeen long years in cryosleep aboard the damaged Valkyrie-198 as it limps along towards the small void just beyond the orbit of Saturn. During those years, back on Earth…

Jack works with relentless determination to develop the skills and knowledge needed to rescue Laura from the cryogenic pod under the mountain….

Alexis rises through the ranks of the Independent Order of Valkyries…

Maestro seeks to help and then heal a king…

The leader of the Society authorizes increased activities in the Borderlands, and Ranger Stone is lost as a result…

Ranger Stone’s son Brian, the boy with one blue and one brown eye, comes of age and learns a family secret that places him at the center of a great conflict…

And Bucky the horse continues to chew on nothing.

At the end of Beyond the Lemon Tree Moon, Number One, Annabelle, and many from the Potato arrive in the Earth System. But what awaits them when they return to their ancestral home?

Find out in Navigating Yesterday.

Summary: Overall, this was another great addition to Dean’s The Voided Man series and I am excited to see where he takes it next. This book (and series) is for anyone who is interested in quirky and humorous science fiction, especially sci-fi that touches on space travel and what it means to be human. 

See the full review here: Navigating Yesterday
Purchase here

 

She Tames the Sea by E.M. Etheridge

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Men fear a woman on the sea. They say women bring about bad luck and anger from the gods who rule the waters. Estella Bohem fears being aboard Captain Eric Price’s ship, amongst the pirates who kidnapped her for her abilities. It was the Bohem family who used magic to tame the beast of the sea decades ago. They trapped it in an ancient spell to make the waters safe to travel, but it was the vagabonds of the sea who wanted to free it, tame it, and use it for their own ambitions. All her life Estella never had control of her future, but as the notoriously brutal Captain Edward Laggatt hunts her down for the key to the beast’s cage, she has no choice but to trust the same men who stole her away from her socialite life in Charleston South Carolina.

She Tames The Sea is an adult dark fantasy novel that delves into the complications of familial relations, magic and mythology.

Summary: Overall, I LOVED this book. A creative dark fantasy featuring witches, pirates, romance, action, adventure, and magic, I cannot recommend this book enough and am crossing my fingers that we will see more in this series in the future!

See the full review here: She Tames the Sea
Purchase here