The Summer Goddess by Joanne Hall
Julia Kitvaria Sarene
The Summer Goddess is a beautifully told, thematically rich fantasy that offers something far beyond the typical “white male protagonist” hero’s journey. It’s a breath of fresh air for anyone…
Julia Kitvaria Sarene
Those Who Dwell in Darkness by Steve McHugh
A gritty, fast-paced urban fantasy with sharp edges, a solid mystery, and absolutely zero romantasy nonsense. Come for the vampire hunt, stay for the clever banter, great characters, and the…
Planetside by Michael Mammay – Books 1-3 Series Review
It’s not flashy space opera, it’s smart, character-focused storytelling with just enough grit, action, and intrigue to keep you hooked from page one.
In Solitude’s Shadow by David Green
... sharp, character-driven fantasy with teeth, full of heart, heartbreak, and hard choices. If you want magic with meaning, battles with consequences, and a cast that actually makes you care,…
SPFBO 10 Champions’ League: The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble’s Braids by Michael McClung – Review
...a clever, gritty little gem. A witty, tightly written fantasy adventure with a phenomenal lead, great humor, surprising emotional depth, and just enough chaos to keep things unpredictable.
Bounty Inc. by Adam Holcombe – ARC Review
Bounty Inc. is a fun, surprisingly heartfelt but sharp space adventure about building something of your own, finding your people, and figuring things out along the way. Expect banter, bounty…
Engines of Empire by Max Carver
A timely AI-dystopia with strong narration, bold worldbuilding, and a few sharp edges that don’t always cut cleanly, but still leave a mark.
Orishas Among Mortals – Collection 1: An Old Gods Story by Antoine Bandele
... a vibrant, myth-rich (African meets Greek) short story collection that makes for a great entry point into the TJ Young universe. With standout narration and immersive audio touches.
War for the Rose Throne by Peter McLean – Series Review
A masterclass in grimdark fantasy. Spanning four novels, it delivers a gritty, emotionally charged saga of war, power, loyalty, trauma, and survival.
The Oathsworn Legacy by K. R. Gangi
If you enjoy a journey that mirrors the characters’ own development, messy, uneven, but ultimately satisfying, then this is one worth reading to the end.
The Darkness in the Pines by David Green
I really enjoyed the atmospheric setting, the sense of creeping dread, and, of course, most of all Nick’s signature dry wit.
Starling House by Alix E. Harrow
...a solid read with a strong sense of atmosphere and some thoughtful themes.