Rachel Ann Hubert arrives on the scene precisely as she means to, delivering a debut that is polished, smart, and would have readers second-guessing that this is the start of her writing journey.  Her novel, The Debt Collector (Rise of the Tarnished Book 1), opens up with a catching sequence that sets the tone, the setting, and the stage for what’s to come.  Hubert writes dynamic, layered characters that are easy to connect with.  And they aren’t the only focus, as they exist within a very rich and detailed world that you can get lost in.  The author has ensured there are intricate systems in place, from the magic to the diplomacy, and they add to the overall vividness of the world, without being heavy-handed.  The Debt Collector is wonderfully composed as well, as though Hubert is choreographing the action, and her words take you on a journey as the camera catching footage of the unfolding events.

Living in the capital is not for the faint of heart. But there are ways to delay the hunger pains, to fill up your plate, and look beyond the day to day- especially if you are willing to take out a loan to do so. As resources diminish and desperation grows, more and more have found themselves journeying to the building made of mirrors, in that office at the end of the hall, signing away on the dotted line.

The loan terms seem generous enough: a lifetime to repay what was borrowed.

As Adelliah works to collect on those who do not fulfill their obligations, she will find a much deeper debt that the kingdom itself is trying to clear; one that will have her unraveling generations of secrets, and the truth behind their years without war.

There is a cadence to the author’s words, and it helps to set the pace to an already speedy read.  While the story is robust, and multifaceted, there isn’t a time where it feels like anything lingers for too long, or that there is unnecessary set dressing.  Instead, The Debt Collector knows exactly where it needs to be and when, and that ensures that it is difficult to put down.  There are, of course, secrets revealed along the way, and Hubert handles them deftly, making each feel earned and exciting.  Before readers know it, they’ll be hooked by the one, last twist, and will be biting their nails for more.  With book two on the way, there’s never been a better time to dive into this work by Rachel Ann Hubert.  Check out The Debt Collector (Rise of the Tarnished Book 1) on Amazon today!

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Author Simon Shugar has a passion for worlds that have their own rules, and for mechanics that are well-conceived and enjoyable to the reader.  Thus, in his stellar debut, The Wind Walker (Children of the Sky Book 1), we see his literary universe take shape.  It’s lofty and you can certainly see many components of the world, as Shugar hasn’t left any stone unturned when it comes to creating rich histories and backstories.  But his tale is also a bit more focused in some places.  It’s character-driven, with excellent dialog, and interactions that are easy to imagine played out.  Even if you were just interested in either the characters or the stories, you’d have a good time here.  Shugar, however, leads both to great effect.

To avoid his fate as a Breaker Boy – Children forced to work the mines – Zephyr must find a way to earn enough coin to buy his freedom and escape the city of Crater. Yet there are only so many options afforded to a young boy with no family. Thievery is one.

At the same time – Captain Bacchus and his eccentric crew have been tasked with finding the whereabouts of a treasure, which they know little to nothing about. Yet with a reward of over fifty times their normal going rate; How can they turn the opportunity down?

Those who like their stories not to linger or prattle on are in luck.  The Wind Walker is a tale well-spun with entertaining prose that moves the reader forward at an even pace.  It’s a story with real momentum and gusto, and its praises will no doubt feel earned.  While a sequel is on the horizon, this story is powerful enough on its own to be self-contained and thoroughly enjoyable.  For those who are into fantasy adventures with a bit of swashbuckling, there’s no need to wait.  Check out The Wind Walker (Children of the Sky Book 1) on Amazon today!

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