In Olivia Thompson’s book, Child of Water: The Prequel, the author sets a different sort of foundation than one might find if they had read her book Child of Water: The Rousing.  Indeed, the two can be read separately, giving the reader an understanding of the world that Thompson intricately carves out, yet these characters are often reflective of each other, an interesting foil for how one would act in other, strange circumstances.  It’s still filled with raw emotion, some of which can be very mature, but it is tasteful and handled with the utmost respect by someone who is well aware of the position that a strong female character might find themselves in.  While all of this narrative’s qualities are impressive, it is its characters that shine through, and they will have staying power long after the last page has been turned.

Yoshi Province was plagued with water scarcity. There, samurai were regional lords in name only; if their hans were in Yoshi, they lived as poorly as many peasants – all except for Daimyo Sokan Hiroyuki that is. Somehow, his land flourishes with wealth and prosperity. Has he been blessed by the kami or something else? The answer is Hiroyuki’s best-kept secret: he’s holding captive a woman who can manipulate water.

In this slow-burn romance, Aoi finds herself finally free to do whatever she wants, so long as she never leaves the land of Sokan. Yet, she’s haunted with flashbacks of her past. She’s tirelessly pursued by Hiroyuki’s immature heir, Kishomaru. And now, rumors of her powers are spreading to other clans so that her very life may soon be at stake. Through it all, Aoi is determined to remain true to herself – if she can ever come to terms with whom or what she truly is.

Child of Water: The Prequel surprises in all the best ways, subverting expectations and keeping readers on their toes.  Everything feels earned though, the author clever with her craft, and deliberate in her presentation thereof.  With the explosive grandeur of an anime-style story, but the impact of historical events, this tale will have wide appeal.  An expressive world awaits those readers who join Aoi on her journey, and Thompson has kept up with her passion, releasing two more books in the series, with more yet to come.  But it all starts with this lovely entry.  Check out Child of Water: The Prequel (Female Protagonists Anime Stories) on Amazon today!

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When it comes to historical fantasy about old-world myths and legends, there is perhaps no person better suited for the task than author James K. Isaac.  He takes the work to heart in the release of his first feature-length novel, WOAD, which casts light on specific point of times in our world’s history, and sprinkles magic and fairy dust upon them.  Isaac’s love of history assures that what should feel real, rich, and lively does, while his passion for fantasy elevates it to something more.  In a story that crosses timelines, it may seem a challenge to zigzag back and forth, but Isaac makes easy work of it, demonstrating a care for the narrative that energizes it and keeps readers enthusiastic wherever they are in history.

Fog-shrouded Albion, the last land of myth and magic, is crushed under conquering Roman legions. Woad-painted tribesman, Artos, curses the gods for failing to lead the fightback. Only he can rise to the mantle of God of Revenge and lead the tribes and faerie folk to reclaim their druid-blessed isle. But corruption infests the old-world myths. Cerridwen, the Crone of Fate, commands her boggart followers to tinker at the edges of destiny. Her plans will stretch over nearly two millennia.

In another age, on the banks of the river Thames, rises London, the ravenous stomach of the British Empire. Here, the fading gods of Albion scheme to play their final hand in the one remaining borough where humans and faerie folk live together, the Marsh Worm Mile. Populated by motley street gangs, colorful, pungent markets, and secret curses, the Mile holds the key to deciding the fate of a near-forgotten pagan world.

Double-Dared Sol is the luckiest man in the city. With Shammy and Victor, he runs with the infamous street gang, the Guinea Dreadfuls. The recently come-of-age trio is drawn into the final act of centuries-long machinations when a stranger returns to claim an ancient birthright. Lifelong friendships are tested as the frayed threads of fate slowly knot together.

To whom belongs the scared heart of old Albion? An upstart deity with a chip on his shoulder? The faerie folk, as living, breathing descendants of myth itself? Or is it time for the people of London to finally let go of the superstitions which taunt and twist their thoughts and dreams?

WOAD never tarries on longer than it needs to, ensuring readers that they’ll move forward at a brisk pace.  Amongst prophesy and mystery, riddles and reveals, Isaac’s work is quick to get its hooks in, and difficult to be rid of.  Readers will be eager to discover the next way that Artos integrates into the story, and just how much magic affects the world around, from the times of the faerie folk, to a more modern Europe.  In the end, Isaac delivers a story that is wonderfully self-contained, telling the story in full that it must, before closing with stunning presence.  If this is a preview of what is to come from the talented author, it is worthy of a spot on your shelf, especially if you’re a fan of historical fantasy.  Check out WOAD by James K. Isaac on Amazon today!

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Newcomer author Ashley Griffin may be debuting her first fantasy novel in The Spindle, but a career in entertainment placed her on a journey for greatness that shines within the pages of her book.  A twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty, The Spindle takes readers on a different path, through the eyes of the dark fairy.  Breathing new life into the fairytale that is more akin to Wicked than it is to something like Malificent, the book serves not only as a great and whimsical time in a new twist on an old tale, but also puts Griffin’s talents on display, demonstrating the breadth in her ability of storycraft.  Whether it’s the catching new characters, the world of connective tissue that’s been created, or the snappy sequences and dialog, the author is at home creating.

“The Spindle” is the classic fairy tale, “Sleeping Beauty,” retold from the dark fairy’s point of view…

Set in the Celtic world of the fifth century, the Faeries, elemental spirits charged with caring for the earth and all its inhabitants, are being forgotten and facing extinction. In a desperate bid for survival, sweet, sycophantic Violet, faerie of beauty, love and dreams, breaks the faerie law and gives the barren Queen a child, threatening to dismantle the future of human history. Her sister Nor, the faerie of death, who desires to be truly loved though she is shunned by all mankind, must right Violet’s wrong and restore Princess Rose to her correct place in time before it’s too late. Her plan is threatened by a prideful King desperate to maintain his power, the kind, poor gardener Arthur whose destiny is endangered by his deep love for the Princess he was never supposed to meet, and Princess Rose herself, an intelligent, passionate young woman fated to become one of the greatest rulers the land has ever known.

A veritable renaissance woman, Ashley Griffin shows again and again that no matter what she sets her mind to, she can achieve.  And while she has cultivated skills in other industries on her way here, The Spindle shows that she still has new tricks to put on display.  She is adept at bringing fantasy to life, and leading readers from one page to the next with an abundance of magic and majesty.  It’s also wonderful seeing different perspectives, and finding the truth caught between everyone else’s stories.  In any case, this is one story you should not sleep on.  Check out The Spindle by Ashley Griffin on Amazon today!

And if you’re interested in see a trailer for the book, check it out here:

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At this point in her journey, Olivia Thompson deserves all the accolades that people heap upon her.  Her Female Protagonists Anime Stories series, including Child of Water: The Rousing, which we’re focusing on today, show a huge amount of respect for the genre and for the reader.  Thompson effortlessly balances the components of her book, from the vivid descriptions of the world she’s built, to the stellar action sequences.  While there are certainly fantasy elements here, there are also plenty of places that make the story feel grounded in reality, immersing one into the narrative and the events that unfold.  Child of Water also features dynamic characters that grow as the story progresses, leaving readers with a captivating journey that they’ll be happy to be on.

In an age of peace, Arisu decides to bring chaos and destruction all for the sake of her revenge. At least, that’s what she thought until she met him.

The era of fighting is coming to a close.

There’s still a remnant of samurai who lives with warrior pride and conviction.

No one can afford to war in this region.

But there are those who still have reasons to fight.

Suitable for those 16 and older.

Along the way in The Rousing, beautiful pictures accompany the lovely prose, further immersing those enjoying the adventure.  Thompson essentially does everything that she can to engross and engage her audience, and she does it with what seems like supreme ease, though it also shows that she put plenty of work into this craft.  There are a growing number of books in this series, and while they all flow in some interesting ways and connect with one another, they can be read on their own and still captivate and bring joy to readers.  This is a great one to dive into.  Check out Child of Water: The Rousing (Female Protagonists Anime Stories) on Amazon today!

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Cody Schlegel’s Odyssey Tale has been ridiculously well-received, and for good reason.  The book has something for everyone, as it leans into the best of fairy tales, myths and legends, all while treading its own path.  It’s delightful even in its darker moments, and it will keep readers on their toes.  Each of the characters could be known to the audience, though they’re shadows of the more popular versions that are known in their original works.  Here, their demeanors and motivations could be greatly changed, and it could leave a shock the first time they’re encountered, but Schlegel somehow makes everything feel exciting and electric.

Classic fairy tales collide with Greek mythology’s greatest adventure in this gritty retelling of Homer’s epic.

After a decade of wrongful imprisonment following his heroics in the Trojan War, King Otis Seehus must overcome a series of treacherous obstacles to return home to his wife and son.

Otis’s son, Mac, is nearing adulthood. Having never met his father, and despite rumors of Otis’s demise, Mac arranges for a ship and crew. Led by a wise, magical man named Jinni and a ragtag group of sailors who call themselves “Lost Boys,” the sheltered prince sets sail to find his long-lost father.

The result is a mash-up of fantastical proportions, filled with twists, turns, and nostalgia, as “once upon a time” provides the framework for reimagining one man’s journey to reunite with his family and reclaim his kingdom.

Odyssey Tale hits all the beats you expect from a retelling of Homer’s greatest adventures, but with enough surprises that will keep readers entertained throughout.  There are quite a few “Once Upon a Times” that work to great effect, and each time a reference is caught, it’s thoroughly enjoyable.  While Schlegel manages to wrap things up with a tidy bow, he was clever enough to leave things open for more exploration on behalf of his protagonists, with the possibility of a whole new cast of characters.  But before you get there, you should dive into this first book.   Check out Odyssey Tale by Cody Schlegel on Amazon today!

The post Historical Fantasy Promo – Odyssey Tale appeared first on Tellest.

Cody Schlegel’s Odyssey Tale has been ridiculously well-received, and for good reason.  The book has something for everyone, as it leans into the best of fairy tales, myths and legends, all while treading its own path.  It’s delightful even in its darker moments, and it will keep readers on their toes.  Each of the characters could be known to the audience, though they’re shadows of the more popular versions that are known in their original works.  Here, their demeanors and motivations could be greatly changed, and it could leave a shock the first time they’re encountered, but Schlegel somehow makes everything feel exciting and electric.

Classic fairy tales collide with Greek mythology’s greatest adventure in this gritty retelling of Homer’s epic.

After a decade of wrongful imprisonment following his heroics in the Trojan War, King Otis Seehus must overcome a series of treacherous obstacles to return home to his wife and son.

Otis’s son, Mac, is nearing adulthood. Having never met his father, and despite rumors of Otis’s demise, Mac arranges for a ship and crew. Led by a wise, magical man named Jinni and a ragtag group of sailors who call themselves “Lost Boys,” the sheltered prince sets sail to find his long-lost father.

The result is a mash-up of fantastical proportions, filled with twists, turns, and nostalgia, as “once upon a time” provides the framework for reimagining one man’s journey to reunite with his family and reclaim his kingdom.

Odyssey Tale hits all the beats you expect from a retelling of Homer’s greatest adventures, but with enough surprises that will keep readers entertained throughout.  There are quite a few “Once Upon a Times” that work to great effect, and each time a reference is caught, it’s thoroughly enjoyable.  While Schlegel manages to wrap things up with a tidy bow, he was clever enough to leave things open for more exploration on behalf of his protagonists, with the possibility of a whole new cast of characters.  But before you get there, you should dive into this first book.   Check out Odyssey Tale by Cody Schlegel on Amazon today!

The post Historical Fantasy Promo – Odyssey Tale appeared first on Tellest.

Cody Schlegel’s Odyssey Tale has been ridiculously well-received, and for good reason.  The book has something for everyone, as it leans into the best of fairy tales, myths and legends, all while treading its own path.  It’s delightful even in its darker moments, and it will keep readers on their toes.  Each of the characters could be known to the audience, though they’re shadows of the more popular versions that are known in their original works.  Here, their demeanors and motivations could be greatly changed, and it could leave a shock the first time they’re encountered, but Schlegel somehow makes everything feel exciting and electric.

Classic fairy tales collide with Greek mythology’s greatest adventure in this gritty retelling of Homer’s epic.

After a decade of wrongful imprisonment following his heroics in the Trojan War, King Otis Seehus must overcome a series of treacherous obstacles to return home to his wife and son.

Otis’s son, Mac, is nearing adulthood. Having never met his father, and despite rumors of Otis’s demise, Mac arranges for a ship and crew. Led by a wise, magical man named Jinni and a ragtag group of sailors who call themselves “Lost Boys,” the sheltered prince sets sail to find his long-lost father.

The result is a mash-up of fantastical proportions, filled with twists, turns, and nostalgia, as “once upon a time” provides the framework for reimagining one man’s journey to reunite with his family and reclaim his kingdom.

Odyssey Tale hits all the beats you expect from a retelling of Homer’s greatest adventures, but with enough surprises that will keep readers entertained throughout.  There are quite a few “Once Upon a Times” that work to great effect, and each time a reference is caught, it’s thoroughly enjoyable.  While Schlegel manages to wrap things up with a tidy bow, he was clever enough to leave things open for more exploration on behalf of his protagonists, with the possibility of a whole new cast of characters.  But before you get there, you should dive into this first book.   Check out Odyssey Tale by Cody Schlegel on Amazon today!

The post Historical Fantasy Promo – Odyssey Tale appeared first on Tellest.

Doctor Clifford Waldman has done an incredible job on his historical fantasy release, The Emperor Returns (The Emperor’s Return Book 1).  Anyone who takes a single glance at the book and its sequel will see that Waldman is passionate about his work and his research, and it bleeds into his story in an almost academic way.  Fans of ancient China will be glued to each page as they learn more about the mystical return of one of the country’s greatest rulers.  The tale also blends well within our own world, giving us a sort of reverse portal fantasy to watch unfold.

This first book of the Emperor Qin series describes the riveting moments when he and his ancient Army of 100,000 Terra cotta Warriors awake from their 23-century slumber–when they’re resurrected. It leads us through a labyrinth of rapid-firing developments involving explosive military clashes, apparent interventions by God or Nature, enthusiastic embrace by millions around the World–and a growing powerful love between Emperor Qin Shi Huang and his also resurrected Queen Yang Yuhuan.

The story keeps descending into deeper layers of mystery and meaning. All of Qin’s wars involve a hidden struggle within our species–within our psyche–between warring elements. Qin’s battle with literal enemies mirrors this cosmic struggle in all of us. Only if he and we can win this struggle, can our species survive and keep moving forward…otherwise, we’re about to go extinct! The moment of truth is upon us.

Readers have an exceptional adventure ahead of them with The Emperor Returns.  The ancient ruler and his army are brought to life in some very interesting ways that fans are going to love.  Waldman’s books are massive, but he’s been patient and calculating, and had the foresight to see that people would want to rush out and pick up the second book just as soon as the first one was finished.  That’s good news for readers, because the second book is ready and waiting once they turn the final page.  Still, the beginning is a great place to start.  Check out The Emperor Returns (The Emperor’s Return Book 1) on Amazon today!

If you want to learn more about the book series and Doctor Waldman, you can go to Emperorqinreturns.com.

The post Historical Fantasy Promo – The Emperor Returns (The Emperor’s Return Book 1) appeared first on Tellest.

Author Michelle Simpson demonstrates a grasp of poise and preparation with her new release, the wonderful A Time of Reckoning: Book One Betrayals.  It’s filled with beautiful prose, as the author captures the era and environment the tale is set within, and transports readers there in her portrayal.  Along the way, characters that fans of historical fantasy will enjoy following serve as guides to an unravelling plot that threatens a land always at risk from those with dangerous aspirations in mind. Along the way, readers will learn more about the world during that time.  Simpson enjoys old Irish mythology and peppers it into the story, giving it a more lived-in feel than if the story had existed without that foundation.

It is 8th century Ireland and the land is littered with ambitious chieftains and petty kings lobbying for power and status in a time where no one leader has been duly recognized. Devin is the eldest daughter of the petty king, Attus, who dominates the vast north, called Ulaid. Favored by her influential father and having no interest in the crooked path of politics, Devin is allowed to pursue her own course. She chooses the mysterious direction of the healing arts, learning the ancient ways of her Celtic ancestors alongside the druid Oran, a trusted member of their clan and her father’s advisor.

In a sudden act of vengeance by their greatest rival, Bram, tragedy befalls their great house and leaves the family shattered and grieving.  Propelled onto a great seat, she must learn to honor her ancient ways in a land dominated by Christianity and men. Jealousy mounts from her sister, Una, a powerful yet petty woman who secretly plots against her. With odds stacking against Devin, she finds partnership and solace with Tristan, a soldier in her father’s army, and the man who becomes her lover. Their love is all-consuming, and distracting, as she battles enemies near and far that covet her great seat. 

Devin must overcome betrayals, wars and intrigue as she discovers her true strength as a woman and a warrior in a time where no one can be trusted.

With only touches of druidic magic flowing between the pages of Betrayals, the fantasy elements might feel distant at times, but in post-classical Ireland, everything seems steeped in magic and wonder anyway.  Simpson captures that here in her book, and gives readers something real to sink their teeth into.  It pulls no punches, and if readers are looking for something that is gritty and steeped in reality, yet retains its beauty, this could be the book for them.  With another book on the way, there’s no better time than now to dive in.  Check out A Time of Reckoning: Book One Betrayals on Amazon today!

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If readers are looking for a multi-talented storyteller with a deep back catalog, they’re going to love J.W. Elliot.  His fantasy starter, Archer of the Heathland: Deliverance (Book 1) reads like a classic with modern sensibilities.  It has great character development, with characters whose motivations are clear.  You’ll know who to cheer for and who to jeer right from the get go.  Elliot’s prose is vivid and descriptive, and he paints a cinematic picture with his craft, from the scenery to the action.  And the author spends enough time giving his world a personality to make readers feel like they’re part of it as well.  It’s the sum of these parts that makes the story so engaging and immersive, drawing fans in and not letting them go until the final page.

Brion never meant to start a war. But when they murdered his parents and enslaved his sister and his sweetheart, they left him no choice.

Brion of Wexford is the son of a crippled trapper living a quiet life on the edge of the vast and unruly heathland. But when Salassani raiders destroy his world, he must venture into the heathland to attempt the impossible task of finding the girls, rescuing them, and conveying them safely home across hundreds of miles of enemy territory.

Now Brion finds himself pursued by men bent on his destruction, deprived of his protectors, and haunted by the knowledge that his murdered father has hidden a dark secret that could reshape Brion’s entire identity. Brion must find a way to stay alive long enough to get the girls safely home.

Archer of the Heathland is an entertaining ride with a wonderful pace and flow.  It’s great for young adult readers, and the series that it is a part of ages up with them.  Older fantasy fans will enjoy it as well, as it harkens back to some classics, and modern takes on medieval history as well.  This first book in the series manages to feel self contained enough to answer some big questions, but it also paves the way for the greater series that follows it.  With an additional six books in the series to enjoy, there’s never been a better time to dive into a good book.  Check out Archer of the Heathland: Deliverance (Book 1) on Amazon today!  You can get it for a third of it’s normal price from now through May 4th!

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