Tag: 5 Stars

  • Evelyn Reads Child of Water

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Child of Water, a biographical historical fiction written by independent author Gemma Lawrence. The first instalment in The Heirs of Anarchy series, is a compelling narrative on the early life of Matilda, daughter of Henry I, who became Empress of the Holy Empire.

    Cover Image for Child of Water by Gemma Lawrence.
    Child of Water by Gemma Lawrence

    Lawrence skillfully weaves historical facts with plausible inferences, bridging gaps in the historical record to bring these larger-than-life characters to life. By incorporating intricate details on various aspects of the era, such as culinary practices, herbal medicine, and the daily lives of both servants and nobility, Lawrence creates immersive scenes that transports readers to a bygone age.

    What sets Child of Water apart is its focus on strong female figures in history. This novel is notable for its exploration of the challenges faced by trailblazing women like Matilda, who paved the way for future queens of England. The complex political climate of the time is vividly portrayed, offering readers a deeper understanding of the numerous obstacles Matilda had to overcome to mark her place in history.

    Child of Water is a book filled with rich historical detail that breathes life into the early life of Matilda, once Empress, Queen and Countess. Readers will find themselves immersed in the complex political climate of the day as a notable woman in history finds her footing. Highly recommended!


  • Evelyn Reads a Moment in Time

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    A Moment in Time is a poignant psychological romance penned by independent author, J.G. MacLeod. The narrative follows the relationship between an adult education teacher, Lilly, and a parolee, Chad, who strives to rebuild his life.

    Cover image for A Moment in Time by J.G. MacLeod
    A Moment in Time by J.G. MacLeod

    The story unfolds through a captivating first-person perspective that alternates between the protagonists. This distinctive approach offers readers an intimate glimpse into the characters’ thoughts and emotions, heightening the tension during pivotal moments.

    Despite their mismatched backgrounds, both Lilly and Chad harbour their own personal struggles and traumas. MacLeod skillfully crafts raw and evocative scenes that emphasise the necessity of confronting one’s past in order to move forward.

    A Moment in Time is a captivating tale of two kindred spirits who discover solace and healing in each other’s company. The authenticity of the prose may resonate deeply with readers, as it reflects the genuine nature of the author’s writing. Well worth a read!


  • Evelyn Reads Finding Balance

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Finding Balance is a spicy romance written by independent author Andrea H. Todd. This novel focuses on the lives of three women that become inextricably linked as though by fate.

    Cover image for Finding Balance by Andrea H. Todd
    Finding Balance by Andrea H. Todd

    This story is primarily told from the point of view of the three women, with some chapters focused on their love interests. This aspect allows the reader to better understand the complexities of their relationships.

    The characters are as complex as their histories, with some characters carrying baggage from tragic deaths, domestic violence, and workplace harassment. These events and backstories guide the characters’ actions and gives Finding Balance a gritty feel. 

    Finding Balance is a quick read that delves beautifully into the lives of three women in need of change. Those who love a story surrounding fate and romance will not be disappointed!


  • Evelyn Reads Sally

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Sally is a western written by independent author Sara Flower Kjeldsen. It takes place in the fictional town of White Oaks during the nineteenth century, a place where things are not as they seem.

    Cover for the book Sally by Sara Flower Kjeldsen
    Sally by Sara Flower Kjeldsen

    This story is primarily focused on Sally, a young creative girl who plans to attend university to study art. However, her life is uprooted when a tornado touches down near her home, shattering her dreams.

    She finds herself married, barred off from the life she hoped for. As she struggles to find herself in her new life, the veil surrounding the town is lifted, revealing truths she’s ill equipped to deal with. This strains relation with her husband, family, and friends sending her deeper down the rabbit hole. In the end you’ll be left wondering how this will turn out.

    Sally is a quick read that explores what happens when a creative soul is denied an outlet. The characters are fleshed out and feel real, and the situations may seem all too familiar to some. After reading the last page, you’ll be left yearning for more!


  • Evelyn Reads Uncovered

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Uncovered is a dark fantasy novel written by independent author Luna Fiore. This is the second book in the Underhill Saga, which is centred on a magical realm that borders our own.

    Featured image for Uncovered by Luna Fiore.
    Uncovered by Luna Fiore

    The events of Uncovered take place near the end of its predecessor, Unbound. However, Fiore focuses on a new protagonist Makenna, a fire witch that was encountered earlier as Alannah struggled to break away from her cursed existence. 

    While this may disappoint some readers, it opens up the world to those inhabiting Underhill itself. Characters from its progenitor also make an appearance, giving this work a familiar vibe, even as we look past the shiny veneer of legends to expose a dark truth.

    Uncovered is a sequel that breaks away from its Unbound and contributes to the lore of this rich realm. This novel shines a light on the shadowy elements of this world’s past and rewards repeat readers with a satisfying conclusion with the promise of much more. Highly recommended!


  • Evelyn Reads Unbound

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Unbound is a dark fantasy novel written by independent author Luna Fiore. This is the first book in the Underhill Saga, featuring a realm that borders our world, and is the home of witches and fae.

    Cover for Unbound by Luna Fiore
    Unbound by Luna Fiore

    This story focuses primarily on Alannah, a young woman trapped on a small property that straddles both worlds. Alone and isolated, she has grown to accept her solitary existence. She has been tasked with providing food and shelter to humans before they venture out into the dark woods of Underhill, never to be seen again. 

    All of that changes when a member of the last group to pass through returns. Left with a choice, she can either carry on with her duties or break a vow and take action. The choice she makes on that day, unleashes a chain of events that will push her into the unknown, where friends and foes are not so easily distinguished.

    The author uses multiple points of view to grant us insights on other characters. This effectively gives us a glimpse at their motivations, brings to the forefront the harshness of life, and humanises those who interact with Alannah.

    Fiore paints a stunning portrait of a world that is as dangerous as it is beautiful. While Unbound offers a satisfying ending, it also blows open the doors to a new adventure on the horizon! Worth a read!


  • Evelyn Reads The Backup Who Cried Wolf

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    The Backup Who Cried Wolf is a superhero fantasy novella written by independent author Kayla Hicks. This is the third book in The Backup Superhero series taking place a few months after the events of the first book.

    Cover for The Backup Who Cried Wolf by Kayla Hicks
    The Backup Who Cried Wolf by Kayla Hicks

    This story focuses on Dwighter, a D Level superhero who saves the day by rescuing a truckload of people. However, as usual, gets none of the credit. While drowning his sorrows and the voices in his head, he overhears the name of a well-known crime lord.

    This triggers a series of events that will put The Leave of Superheros, and the city itself in peril. Given his chequered past and propensity for heavy drinking, will anyone take him seriously?

    The Backup Who Cried Wolf is a quick read filled with sarcasm and wit. This sheds light on the plight of the D Levels and puts the human element of being a superhero front and centre. Well worth the price of admission!


  • Evelyn Reads The Backup Superhero

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    The Backup Superhero is a superhero fantasy novella written by independent author Kayla Hicks. This is the first in the same named series that focuses on sanctioned vigilantes who aid law enforcement.

    Cover for The Backup Superhero by Kayla Hicks
    The Backup Superhero by Kayla Hicks

    This story follows a D Level superhero who goes by the name of Tanser Girl. As part of the lowest echelon of heroes, there is no fame or glory for what she does, but she’s content with remaining out of the spotlight.

    However, things go awry when another D Level makes the news. This upsets the balance within the League of Superheros and Tanser Girl catches the scent of threat that may put the league at risk.

    Ultimately, The Backup Superhero is a quick read that is filled with twists and turns. This story being grounded in reality only makes the characters and their actions more relatable. Well worth a read!


  • Evelyn Reads Dead Culture

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Dead Culture is a post-mortal fantasy written by independent author Ross Young. This is the fourth book of the Gloomwood series that centres on a fictional city of the dead found outside of Heaven or Hell. 

    Cover for Dead Culture by Ross Young
    Dead Culture by Ross Young

    This story takes place after the events of Dead Festive. It is focused on Detective Blunt, a man who single-handedly alienated everyone around him. With the creditors at his door, he is presented with a cheese-related case that he would rather turn down.

    Dead Culture brings back many of the familiar faces and features the same brand of humour one can expect from Young. As a treat, we are introduced to new creatures and areas of the city which have not previously been explored. 

    Overall, this novel is a quick read filled with humour, wacky outcomes, and sharp wit. Those who finish this tale, may never look at the yogurt the same way…


  • Evelyn Reads Heir to The Sun

    Rating: 5 out of 5.

    Heir to the Sun is a fantasy written by independent author Karen Lykkebo. The story starts off with a young woman leaving behind an abusive relationship to start life anew in an isolated town. 

    Cover image for Heir to The Sun by Karen Lykkebo
    Heir to the Sun by Karen Lykkebo

    In terms of characters, Aura has had a rough life. Her parents are dead, she suffers from skull splitting headaches, has nightmares about a fiery car crash, and was lost by the system as a child. A shiny beacon of light in her life are stories that an aunt would tell her, ones so wild that she dismissed them as fairy tales.

    The story steers towards the fantastical when her boyfriend returns. After a near fatal escape, she ends up in the very world she thought to be fictional. With the world teetering on the brink of oblivion, Aura must drive headfirst into her new reality.

    Lykkebo weaves a tale that evokes the nostalgia of the fairy tales of old, but with a modern take. While Aura is no damsel in distress, she feels entirely human and believable. Ultimately, this quick read has a satisfying ending and will leave you yearning for more!


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