Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off #11: The First Five Fall
Jennie Ivins
Our judges whittle down our group of 30 books by letting go of five at a time. We don’t read the books in any particular order, and so we don’t…
The Grimnir Saga by Scott Oden – Series Review
Stuart Cripps-Schnoor
The world is richly described and vivid, its characters intricate. A violent tale of bitter revenge drenched in blood but defined by its intimate human connections. An absolute must read…
The Strange Case of the Alchemist’s Daughter by Theodora Goss – Review
Julia Kitvaria Sarene
Charming, witty, and deeply character-driven, this Victorian-era mystery reimagines classic literary monsters through a warm, modern lens. With a strong focus on found family, sharp dialogue, and a playful narrative…
All That We See or Seem by Ken Liu – Review
... a confident start to a new series from an author who clearly has things to say about where technology and humanity are headed, and says them through a cast…
The Tattling Whisperwoods by Tilly Wallace – Review
playful, magical, and full of heart. Stronger than the first book, richer in character, and still deeply comforting. It’s not about sweeping epic stakes. It’s about community, care, stubborn hope,…
To Ride a Rising Storm by Moniquill Blackgoose – Review
Dragons, colonialism, and resistance, with a cast that reflects the full spectrum of humanity and a world that keeps getting richer, Blackgoose is building something special here.
The Poet Empress by Shen Tao: A Vague Review (Because Anything Specific Will Ruin the Ride)
JC Kang
I have concluded The Poet Empress needs to be experienced with very little knowledge of the story and characters, so the enigma of the villain can be unraveled as expectations…
Aspirant’s Oath by Levi Jacobs – Review
The academy concept intrigues me, the dragon element is exactly my kind of thing, and I’m very curious to see how this world and these characters deepen over a full-length…
Gather the Anarchists by Tilly Wallace – Review
Overall, this series feels like wrapping yourself in your favourite blanket after a long, draining day. It’s steady, reassuring, and quietly engaging without demanding too much from you.
Quarter Share by Nathan Lowell – Review
If you enjoy slow-burn, competence-focused stories and have even a mild fondness for trade and economics, this will probably feel like coming home.
Soulstar by C.L. Polk – Review
Soulstar is a timely and important conclusion, exploring power, social inequality, and resilience. It’s an intense, thought-provoking read that balances romance, politics, and personal struggle, leaving a lasting impression well…
Service Model by Adrian Tchaikovsky – Review
This book manages a perfect balance: entertaining, playful, and full of heart, while also offering thoughtful commentary on identity, consciousness, and morality.