SPFBO Finalist Review: By Blood, by Salt by J. L. Odom
Julia Kitvaria Sarene
This was my favourite of the SPFBO books by quite some distance. It’s a powerful story about outsiders, how they try to fit in, and how they are treated.
Reviews
Dead Cat Tail Assassins by P. Djèlí Clark – Review
Overall, Dead Cat Tail Assassins is an engaging read with a unique world, entertaining characters, and enough action to keep you hooked. It may take a little time to truly…
SPFBO Finalist Review: Gates of Hope by J. E. Hannaford
The plot starts with a classic fantasy trope but quickly deepens into something more complex, balancing humor, action, and reflective moments.
Review: A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher
Overall, A Sorceress Comes Calling is a darker but still immensely enjoyable read, perfect for fans of Kingfisher who are looking for something a bit more serious, with the same…
SPFBO Finalist Review: Runelight by J. A. Andrews
Also, Kate and Venn's passively antagonistic friendship . . . I love it!!! I wanna be there for ALL their interactions – to adjudicate, or just laugh. Their banter is…
To Shape a Dragon’s Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose – Review
To Shape a Dragon is an engrossing read that robustly and convincingly tackles some real world issues in a fantastic setting. In so doing, like the best of literature, it…
A Deliberate Act of Violence by Steve McHugh – Review
This series is one of the best things to happen in years! Finally, a vampire book that isn’t about romance, nor just another horror novel. It firmly belongs in the…
Review: Echoes of the Imperium by Nicholas and Olivia Atwater
If you’re looking for something a bit different, something that isn’t too fluffy but still a lot of fun, with a crew you’ll grow to love, Echoes of the Imperium…
The Empire’s Ruin by Brian Staveley – Review
The inner conflict that comes with that was bleeding of the page, and addictive.
Last Winter Sun by G.R. Matthews – Review
Last Winter Sun by G. R. Matthews is a mix of dystopian novel, magic, orks and other beasts. The blurb says “A-Team meets World of Warcraft” and as someone who…
SPFBO Finalist Review: The Humane Society for Creatures and Cryptids by Stephanie A. Gillis
I really, really like the premise – the sanctuary in the woods, the isolation (ostracism) from the local community, and the rest of the world, and the fascinating creatures (or…
The Guardian of the Palace by Steven J. Morris – Review
The tone and voice easily hooked me to the end. More like this please!