Bonding Fire by Ava Richardson

When Prince Tagaris arrives at Gwen’s door seeking aid, she’s tempted to turn him away. Despite being banished from court with her mentor for failing to save the king years ago, Gwen can’t refuse his plea.

Tagaris’s niece, Comnena, suffers from the same fatal illness that claimed the king’s life. Gwen soon discovers Comnena has been poisoned, a fact hidden by the dragon queen. To conceal Gwen’s true mission, Tagaris proposes a fake courtship.

Though Gwen harbors no love for Tagaris, she must rely on him to cure Comnena. As they grow closer, their sham courtship evolves into something genuine. Yet, Gwen grapples with forgiving Tagaris while they strive to save the kingdom from ruin.

“I was so caught up in this story. At times it slows down, but it felt relevant and went along with the story. The budding romance, the mystery illness, and the whodunnit aspect all kept me awake half the night to keep reading. I love the shifters, introduction to magic, and unique healing aspects of this world.” Amanda wrote in their 5-star review. “While this story arc wrapped up in the book, a huge question is left at the end leading into the next book. I can’t wait!”

“I so enjoyed this book. I was drawn into the story from the beginning. There was drama, intrigue, romance, and heroism all wrapped up together,” wrote Mary S. in their 5-star review. “Ready for the next volume!!”

Demon’s Vow by R.W. Hert

Despite knowing better, sixteen-year-old Zade couldn’t resist saving and befriending a girl, actions that he now regrets. As the village’s covert guardian, he should have remained invisible. Now, hunted by the villagers who rightfully fear the demon within him, Zade faces the consequences of his actions. If that demon were to break free, it would mean doom for them all.

“This book is good for all those who are into fantasy stories. This is the first I’ve read of demons and ninjas mixed in together,” Flora R. wrote in their 5-star review. “The storyline along with twists, turns and added plots are outstanding. Good book to read, looking forward to the next one.”

D. Voda raved in their 5-star review, “A well-crafted adventure and sci-fi plot with appropriate protagonists who distinguish themselves with unexpected character traits. A suspenseful and colorful book that is a joy to read. The cover and the title made me want to read the book; however, they do not fit. The book was rewarding in a different way than what the cover and title led me to expect.”

All the Disappearing Things by L.M. Dodds

While wasting away in a rural tavern, Lim yearns for a future where she owns a restaurant free from mystery ingredients, judgmental patrons who mock the glowing blue cuffs that cut off her power, and where she might discover the same love her friends share. However, a chance discovery confronts Lim with a daunting dilemma: unleash the once-oppressive magic of her people or maintain the fragile peace of her society. The repercussions of her choice will compel her to confront harsh realities about her past and future, realizing the destructive potential of unchecked magic and the limitations it poses even on matters of the heart.

“It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. Amazing world-building that is detailed and imaginative and so well done that you’re drawn into a fantastic world unlike any other. Strong, interesting, and fascinating characters that are well-developed and diverse. The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic, danger, politics, intrigue, and subterfuge,” Jennifer wrote in their 5-star review. “The plot thickens, the suspense builds, and the passion erupts! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.”

“A great fantasy romance that takes you on an adventure. I have read a lot of fantasy books and this one is something special. The world build-up and the character hooks you in and keeps you reading,” Vicky R. wrote in their 5-star review. “I can’t wait until the next book comes out!”

The Exiled Queen by Roxana Arama

As Rome’s conquest looms and the empire’s edges tremble, Princess Andrada persuades her father to mentor her as his successor, defying conventions that bar women from rulership. But her battle against long-entrenched customs crumbles when she fails the King’s Challenge and is then sentenced to death.

To save her life, Andrada’s father marries her off to a neighboring king. Now a new queen, she watches over her country from exile with an unloving husband who only wants a male heir from her. Now she must stand up strong before the Roman Empire, and forge her destiny.

“This was a very fun, fast read. It’s full of villains to hate, with a few good guys and an assortment of flawed people who try hard mixed in. Very exciting battle scenes and a plot that twists and doesn’t tarry,” Howard W. wrote in their 5-star review. “I also learned a ton of new things: about ancient warfare and weaponry, the relationship between kings and tribal chieftains, the history of Romania and its interaction with the Roman Empire. Add in ancient weaponry, medical techniques (surprisingly advanced), tactics, and trade, and I’m smarter from reading it.”

Kat C. in their 5-star review, “The Exiled Queen is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy. With its strong female protagonist, intricate plot, and vivid world-building, this book is a captivating read from start to finish.”

The Shadow of the Blackrobe by Luke Olisk

Five years after the last human war, the world enjoys peace, but evil still lurks. Elvin, a skilled tasvoy, hunts monsters and fights crime with magic and combat skills to become a master. During a hunt, he faces a dilemma: complete his task or save a life. His choice leads him to a mysterious monster hunter, and together they uncover a malevolent figure in the shadows.

“I enjoyed reading this book. This epic fantasy is about hunting monsters after the war and humans having to live with them not knowing who they are,” Vicky R. wrote in their 5-star review. “If you are a fantasy reader you will enjoy this book.”

“Wow. This is one fine book full of things that blew my mind and this book is quite different for this genre I thought and I am all the more glad for it,” Anonymous wrote in their 5-star review. “Ya gotta read this book or you’ll be missing out on something amazing! Can’t wait for book two.”