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Vengeance Has No Sound: The Silent Retribution Series
Three thousand years ago, seven heroes defeated the Blood Queen—a monster capable of reducing entire nations to ash—and sealed her away. Barriers rose. Peace returned. The land of Nyxaria survived.
But time erodes all things.
The barriers are failing and the monsters are returning—stronger, hungrier, and driven by something far darker than instinct.
To uncover the cause, the Order assembles a team of specialists. Among them is Novalius—deaf, an outcast, and powerless to wield vitapars—the building material of all things. To everyone else, he’s a mistake. To fate, he’s a spark waiting to ignite.
When Novalius crosses paths with a forgotten creature, the truth buried beneath centuries of myth begins to surface. Lies fracture. Legends bleed. And what he uncovers will force him to
Will he fight to preserve the world that cast him aside—
Or let it burn to reveal the truth it tried to hide?
But time erodes all things.
The barriers are failing and the monsters are returning—stronger, hungrier, and driven by something far darker than instinct.
To uncover the cause, the Order assembles a team of specialists. Among them is Novalius—deaf, an outcast, and powerless to wield vitapars—the building material of all things. To everyone else, he’s a mistake. To fate, he’s a spark waiting to ignite.
When Novalius crosses paths with a forgotten creature, the truth buried beneath centuries of myth begins to surface. Lies fracture. Legends bleed. And what he uncovers will force him to
Will he fight to preserve the world that cast him aside—
Or let it burn to reveal the truth it tried to hide?
- GenresFantasy
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 12, 2025
Holy shit! Vengeance may not have sound but I sure do. I am screaming for more! This was a phenomenal read all around. I adored the magic system, the world and character-building are top notch, and the representation….hello! Not only do we get diverse characters, we get deaf and hard of hearing representation. I am just in love with Barakah Smith and this series. (Also, uh, ma’am…. Book 2 pls?)
Pick this one up when it releases Jan 10, you’ll be glad you did.
Huge thank you to the author for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own. (My opinion is you need this book. Kthxbai.)
Pick this one up when it releases Jan 10, you’ll be glad you did.
Huge thank you to the author for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own. (My opinion is you need this book. Kthxbai.)
February 3, 2026
A great time
If you're looking to get into fantasy without reading something complicated, this book is for you. There's rich world-building that doesn't feel overly complex. There's a disability rep (the MMC Nova is deaf and faces a lot of prejudices because of it). There's found family, a very interesting magic system, and a ton of magical creatures. I was captivated from the very first page. I found myself eager to get to know Nova and was rooting for him, as the book lets us know right away that he's the underdog because not only is he deaf, but he also can't do magic, and he's often picked on, but Nova has a good support system in his father and his friends. I don't want to give anything away, but a series of events happen after the place Noa works as a stablehand for is attacked, and the stage is set for a grand adventure. This book really was a great time, and I can't wait for book 2!
If you're looking to get into fantasy without reading something complicated, this book is for you. There's rich world-building that doesn't feel overly complex. There's a disability rep (the MMC Nova is deaf and faces a lot of prejudices because of it). There's found family, a very interesting magic system, and a ton of magical creatures. I was captivated from the very first page. I found myself eager to get to know Nova and was rooting for him, as the book lets us know right away that he's the underdog because not only is he deaf, but he also can't do magic, and he's often picked on, but Nova has a good support system in his father and his friends. I don't want to give anything away, but a series of events happen after the place Noa works as a stablehand for is attacked, and the stage is set for a grand adventure. This book really was a great time, and I can't wait for book 2!
January 31, 2026
****ADVANCED READER COPY REVIEW****
This book was amazing! First off, the main character is deaf and using lip reading as a form of communicating. I also was cheering him on every step of the way because he refused to give into the naysayers. There's monsters and a non complex magic system. The author definitely knows how to tell a story and suck you in.
This book was amazing! First off, the main character is deaf and using lip reading as a form of communicating. I also was cheering him on every step of the way because he refused to give into the naysayers. There's monsters and a non complex magic system. The author definitely knows how to tell a story and suck you in.
February 12, 2026
Vengeance Has No Sound by Barakah J Smith…is so beautifully written. It’s emotional, tense and breathtaking.
The story was packed with beautifully written characters, with genuine flaws, rich with history, reflection and emotion.
The main character, Nova is deaf and uses sign language to communicate and reads lips. Nova’s story of personal growth, confidence and quiet strength are so powerful and profound, I was deeply moved by his story. There were moments, I had to sit with that particular bit of the story and let it resonate, let the feelings settle and take hold.
The world building, the plot and the side characters are all so intricately written and in great detail. I was walking alongside them all and seeing what they saw, in awe.
There is a moment in the story, towards the end, in a particular village, I will not ruin the experience for you, but when you get there…be prepared. How Barakah brings to life, on paper, so vividly, so intensely, a powerful force of a momentous event. I am in awe of Barakah. I still think about this moment in this book now and I don’t think I will ever forget it. It has taken root, it resonated so deeply within my soul. Well done!
I can’t wait to see what is next in this story. Nova is one of my favourite book characters, hands down! Easily 10 🌟
The story was packed with beautifully written characters, with genuine flaws, rich with history, reflection and emotion.
The main character, Nova is deaf and uses sign language to communicate and reads lips. Nova’s story of personal growth, confidence and quiet strength are so powerful and profound, I was deeply moved by his story. There were moments, I had to sit with that particular bit of the story and let it resonate, let the feelings settle and take hold.
The world building, the plot and the side characters are all so intricately written and in great detail. I was walking alongside them all and seeing what they saw, in awe.
There is a moment in the story, towards the end, in a particular village, I will not ruin the experience for you, but when you get there…be prepared. How Barakah brings to life, on paper, so vividly, so intensely, a powerful force of a momentous event. I am in awe of Barakah. I still think about this moment in this book now and I don’t think I will ever forget it. It has taken root, it resonated so deeply within my soul. Well done!
I can’t wait to see what is next in this story. Nova is one of my favourite book characters, hands down! Easily 10 🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
While reading, it felt like a DnD adventure. I enjoyed the world building, characters and plot progression. I need to remember this book for when my son is old enough to read. This is a perfect adventure story to have discussions around character building and relationships in which the main character is seen as incapable of contributing to the group goals.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ Absolute 5 out of 5 stars
No spice
Vengeance Has No Sound by Barakah Smith completely caught me off guard. This was an ARC I nearly passed on, but the cover and blurb pulled me back in, and I am genuinely glad they did. This story feels different from much of what I read, and that difference is its strength.
Nova is an incredible MMC. Deaf, observant, and deeply capable, he experiences the world through vibration and awareness rather than sound, and the way that is written feels natural and intentional. Sign language is seamlessly woven into the narrative, never slowing the story or feeling instructional. Nova still faces bias and doubt, especially in situations where his hearing is seen as a liability, but his adaptability and skills are undeniable. Watching him navigate that tension was one of the most compelling parts of the book.
The supporting cast just elevates everything. Bodin, Nova’s best friend, grounds him with loyalty and familiarity. Elara, the petite but ferocious beast master, is an absolute force. Zuri brings intellect and depth as the group’s historian, adding layers to the world and its past. Asa, a warrior who initially sees Nova’s deafness as a risk in the field, adds an important perspective as her views begin to shift. Each character feels distinct, purposeful, and essential in the story.
The pacing strikes a strong balance between action and character development. There is enough movement to keep the story engaging, but it also gives space for emotional beats to land. One scene in particular, a dance sequence, was stunning. It was written so well, I could see it clearly, feel it emotionally, and it left me with chills. It was one of those moments that sinks straight into your chest and stays there.
The worldbuilding is rich and immersive. Culture, history, and stakes are layered thoughtfully throughout the story, and the BIPOC representation is handled beautifully. Disability representation is treated with the same care and respect, fully integrated into the world rather than highlighted as a novelty.
Overall, Vengeance Has No Sound is a phenomenal start to the Silent Retribution Series. Thoughtful, powerful, and emotionally resonant, this book left an impression. This is easily an early contender for one of my top reads of the year, and I am very much invested in what comes next.
No spice
Vengeance Has No Sound by Barakah Smith completely caught me off guard. This was an ARC I nearly passed on, but the cover and blurb pulled me back in, and I am genuinely glad they did. This story feels different from much of what I read, and that difference is its strength.
Nova is an incredible MMC. Deaf, observant, and deeply capable, he experiences the world through vibration and awareness rather than sound, and the way that is written feels natural and intentional. Sign language is seamlessly woven into the narrative, never slowing the story or feeling instructional. Nova still faces bias and doubt, especially in situations where his hearing is seen as a liability, but his adaptability and skills are undeniable. Watching him navigate that tension was one of the most compelling parts of the book.
The supporting cast just elevates everything. Bodin, Nova’s best friend, grounds him with loyalty and familiarity. Elara, the petite but ferocious beast master, is an absolute force. Zuri brings intellect and depth as the group’s historian, adding layers to the world and its past. Asa, a warrior who initially sees Nova’s deafness as a risk in the field, adds an important perspective as her views begin to shift. Each character feels distinct, purposeful, and essential in the story.
The pacing strikes a strong balance between action and character development. There is enough movement to keep the story engaging, but it also gives space for emotional beats to land. One scene in particular, a dance sequence, was stunning. It was written so well, I could see it clearly, feel it emotionally, and it left me with chills. It was one of those moments that sinks straight into your chest and stays there.
The worldbuilding is rich and immersive. Culture, history, and stakes are layered thoughtfully throughout the story, and the BIPOC representation is handled beautifully. Disability representation is treated with the same care and respect, fully integrated into the world rather than highlighted as a novelty.
Overall, Vengeance Has No Sound is a phenomenal start to the Silent Retribution Series. Thoughtful, powerful, and emotionally resonant, this book left an impression. This is easily an early contender for one of my top reads of the year, and I am very much invested in what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vengeance Has No Sound
Barakah Smith
Vengeance Has No Sound is the first installment in a series about a Deaf man named Nova and his adventures in a distinctly unique magical realm.
Since I've been reviewing a lot of romantasy, I want to make it clear that this book is regular fantasy! Honestly, that was kind of a nice breather for me.
Barakah Smith's worldbuilding is exquisite and mysterious. The magical creatures our main characters face are uniquely interesting and Nova himself is an enigma. In a world where some humans develop the ability to use a form of magic that is, essentially, manipulating atoms, he is one of them who does not develop the ability innately. As the book goes on, he learns that there is more to himself than he ever realised -- as do the prejudiced townsfolk who underestimated him due to his Deafness.
This book is quick-moving, but a thoughtful take on prejudice and segregation even on a "small" scale.
I found myself absolutely fascinated with the lore, realm, creatures, and magic system in this story. Smith weaves a very fascinating portrait of a young man who is just discovering who he is, in a realm that is in desperate need of change. Nova's adventures and the several main characters' arcs will leave you begging for the next installment.
Thank you to Barakah Smith for the eARC ❤️✨
Vengeance Has No Sound
Barakah Smith
Vengeance Has No Sound is the first installment in a series about a Deaf man named Nova and his adventures in a distinctly unique magical realm.
Since I've been reviewing a lot of romantasy, I want to make it clear that this book is regular fantasy! Honestly, that was kind of a nice breather for me.
Barakah Smith's worldbuilding is exquisite and mysterious. The magical creatures our main characters face are uniquely interesting and Nova himself is an enigma. In a world where some humans develop the ability to use a form of magic that is, essentially, manipulating atoms, he is one of them who does not develop the ability innately. As the book goes on, he learns that there is more to himself than he ever realised -- as do the prejudiced townsfolk who underestimated him due to his Deafness.
This book is quick-moving, but a thoughtful take on prejudice and segregation even on a "small" scale.
I found myself absolutely fascinated with the lore, realm, creatures, and magic system in this story. Smith weaves a very fascinating portrait of a young man who is just discovering who he is, in a realm that is in desperate need of change. Nova's adventures and the several main characters' arcs will leave you begging for the next installment.
Thank you to Barakah Smith for the eARC ❤️✨
March 12, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. This review is spoiler free and reflects my honest thoughts.
I absolutely loved this story.
The first third of the book does a lot of heavy lifting in terms of worldbuilding. There are many characters, layers of magic, and social dynamics introduced early on, which can feel like a lot at first. However, as the story progresses, that early setup really pays off. By the time the plot begins to move at full speed, the reader already has a strong understanding of the world, the relationships, and the power structures that shape it.
Nova is a fascinating main character. I was especially intrigued by the choice to center a deaf protagonist. Because communication style is such a core part of how readers experience stories, it adds a unique dimension to how scenes unfold and how characters interact. Nova is incredibly capable and valuable, yet he is often overlooked because of his disability. That tension feels very real and adds an emotional layer to his journey.
This is one of those rare books where reaching the final page is genuinely frustrating not because anything is wrong, but because you simply want more. The world feels expansive, with so much history, magic, and unexplored corners still waiting to be revealed.
Even with the heavier information load at the beginning, this is easily a five star read for me. I’m already looking forward to the next installment and discovering more about this world.
I absolutely loved this story.
The first third of the book does a lot of heavy lifting in terms of worldbuilding. There are many characters, layers of magic, and social dynamics introduced early on, which can feel like a lot at first. However, as the story progresses, that early setup really pays off. By the time the plot begins to move at full speed, the reader already has a strong understanding of the world, the relationships, and the power structures that shape it.
Nova is a fascinating main character. I was especially intrigued by the choice to center a deaf protagonist. Because communication style is such a core part of how readers experience stories, it adds a unique dimension to how scenes unfold and how characters interact. Nova is incredibly capable and valuable, yet he is often overlooked because of his disability. That tension feels very real and adds an emotional layer to his journey.
This is one of those rare books where reaching the final page is genuinely frustrating not because anything is wrong, but because you simply want more. The world feels expansive, with so much history, magic, and unexplored corners still waiting to be revealed.
Even with the heavier information load at the beginning, this is easily a five star read for me. I’m already looking forward to the next installment and discovering more about this world.
April 15, 2026
The world building in this book? Chef's kiss. The magic system is so intentional — no lazy shorthand, no slapping generic terms on things and calling it done. You can feel the thought and care that went into every detail. And the names actually fit the world without tipping into ridiculous, which is harder to pull off in fantasy than people think.
Pacing was flawless. There are no dead zones. Every quiet moment is doing something — setting up the next beat, building a skill, layering in lore. Nothing wasted. I flew through this thing.
Nova has my whole heart. He's deaf, and the way sign language is woven into both the dialogue and the world itself genuinely moved me. But beyond that, he's strong and intelligent while still being real — he has flaws, he doubts himself, he makes mistakes. He's not some untouchable power fantasy. He's human in the ways that actually matter and that's what makes you root for him so hard.
This is one of those reads where every piece feels deliberate and earned. I devoured it and I'm already desperate for more. Cannot recommend it enough.
Pacing was flawless. There are no dead zones. Every quiet moment is doing something — setting up the next beat, building a skill, layering in lore. Nothing wasted. I flew through this thing.
Nova has my whole heart. He's deaf, and the way sign language is woven into both the dialogue and the world itself genuinely moved me. But beyond that, he's strong and intelligent while still being real — he has flaws, he doubts himself, he makes mistakes. He's not some untouchable power fantasy. He's human in the ways that actually matter and that's what makes you root for him so hard.
This is one of those reads where every piece feels deliberate and earned. I devoured it and I'm already desperate for more. Cannot recommend it enough.
December 23, 2025
ARC Review
Vengeance Has No Sound delivers a richly imagined fantasy world filled with secrets, myths, and legends waiting to be uncovered. The deeper the story goes, the more layers are revealed, making the world-building both immersive and intriguing.
Nova, who is considered “useless” by others because he is deaf, stands at the center of everything unfolding and his journey is powerful. I loved how the story highlights the deaf community, proving that no one is useless. A disability does not make someone less than; instead, it offers unique perspectives and strengths that become essential to the story.
I was especially grateful for the glossary at the beginning. Breaking down the terminology, key characters, divisions, and creatures made the world easier to navigate and helped me stay fully engaged without confusion.
This was a strong start to The Silent Retribution Series, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next books.
Vengeance Has No Sound delivers a richly imagined fantasy world filled with secrets, myths, and legends waiting to be uncovered. The deeper the story goes, the more layers are revealed, making the world-building both immersive and intriguing.
Nova, who is considered “useless” by others because he is deaf, stands at the center of everything unfolding and his journey is powerful. I loved how the story highlights the deaf community, proving that no one is useless. A disability does not make someone less than; instead, it offers unique perspectives and strengths that become essential to the story.
I was especially grateful for the glossary at the beginning. Breaking down the terminology, key characters, divisions, and creatures made the world easier to navigate and helped me stay fully engaged without confusion.
This was a strong start to The Silent Retribution Series, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book blew me away! I very seldom read this genre but Im sooo glad that I decided to step into unknown waters. The author began this book with a glossary of the heroes, the various divisions in the book, and an explanation of the beasts that are in the book. That glossary made it sooo much easier to follow along and know what's going on.
Nova was my favorite character from the moment that he was introduced into the story. Some underestimated him because of his "disability" but he shows everyone that it is simply a different ability.
I also wanted to smack Ephraim and throw him into an abyss because he worked my nerves non stop.
There were so many vividly described scene that not so simply draw you in a create awesome visuals for you to follow along. They were so great that the ending threw me for a complete loop but was the perfect setup for the next installment of this series.
B Smith definitely has a new reader on her hands.
Nova was my favorite character from the moment that he was introduced into the story. Some underestimated him because of his "disability" but he shows everyone that it is simply a different ability.
I also wanted to smack Ephraim and throw him into an abyss because he worked my nerves non stop.
There were so many vividly described scene that not so simply draw you in a create awesome visuals for you to follow along. They were so great that the ending threw me for a complete loop but was the perfect setup for the next installment of this series.
B Smith definitely has a new reader on her hands.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG, this book was an absolutely amazing read! Barakah Smith is a true master of world-building and character development. You can’t help but fall in love with Nova as the MMC; he’s complex, captivating, and impossible to forget. And let’s not forget Vox! He’s so adorable that if I weren’t allergic to cats, I’d absolutely want one to travel alongside me too!One of the things I loved most was the inclusion of characters with disabilities. While some in the story may treat them differently, Smith writes them as powerful, capable leaders, never defined by their limitations but celebrated for their strength and intelligence. It’s refreshing and empowering to see such representation handled so beautifully.Bravo, Barakah Smith! You’ve created a universe I never want to leave. I cannot wait for the second installment to drop!
December 18, 2025
I was not prepared for the emotional depth! Nova is special to me. I didn’t know that I would love him the way that I do. I myself was very ignorant to the Deaf & hard of hearing community. I feel educated and I’m not even sure that was the author’s intent. I’m happy that I read this, but I’m so incredibly sad. First off I adore the MCs family and found family. I adore the way that they treat him with love and respect and how his disability is nothing more than a different ability to them. I’m trying so hard not to give anything away, by chapter 22 I was a puddle on the floor of my apartment. You can tell from the cover art that it’s not meant to be a lighthearted story, but I definitely did not prepare myself. Well, I need the author to get busy on the sequel immediately, I’m not even kidding.
April 25, 2026
The author took the basic idea behind dystopian stories and made it unique. The representation for the deaf community promotes inclusion and looking beyond a “disability”. Our MMC has been looked over by just about everyone who believes him to be a liability and incapable of becoming more. One of my favorite things in this book is that his father loves, supports and believes in him.
“He had something to tell him, but he had chosen to be a father first before a director. Nova loved him for that.”
So many times, the parent or parents are awful and it was so nice to see a father love his child and champion him. The creatures are fierce and the owl at is awesome! There’s the right amount of conflict, varying emotions and adventure to keep it interesting. Where will our characters go in book 2??
“He had something to tell him, but he had chosen to be a father first before a director. Nova loved him for that.”
So many times, the parent or parents are awful and it was so nice to see a father love his child and champion him. The creatures are fierce and the owl at is awesome! There’s the right amount of conflict, varying emotions and adventure to keep it interesting. Where will our characters go in book 2??
December 17, 2025
Thanks so much to Barakah Smith for allowing me to be a part of this as an ARC reader!! Even so my thoughts are my own! This book was such a breath of fresh air! Very different than a lot of stories we’ve got going on these days! The representation and vivid imagery was wonderful! A deaf and very human very relatable MMC and so many representatives for POC! A magic system that’s simple to understand but complex in action! A late bloomer! And a flying cat??? Who wouldn’t want to read this! I can’t wait to see what our MC Nova and his posse get up to in the next book! The shifting POVs were a bit jarring for me but I can overlook that stuff!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2026
What a magical experience! Barakah has created a masterful tale woven with magic, intrigue and depth of character that sucked me in from page one! I couldn’t imagine that someone could WRITE a deaf MMC and make the character so compelling without having the entire story be about sign language. While there is plenty of discussion of communication issues the ease at which she delivers the characters ability to over come them is nothing short of miraculous! I adore how she takes his “handicap” and uses it to his advantage. And the creatures she’s created are so incredibly detailed and whimsical! I absolutely CAN NOT WAIT for book two!!!
February 22, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ Vengeance Has No Sound should be added to your tbr whether you are a new or seasoned fantasy reader. Set in a world filled with unique magic, fearsome and beautiful creatures, and a cast of easy-to-love characters. The disability representation was very well executed in my opinion. The politics in this world were easy to follow while maintaining the complexity needed to keep it believable and intriguing. I did find that it dragged quite a bit through the middle but overall it was an excellent introduction to the world of Nyxaria and I look forward to reading the next instalments.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this world, characters and story. I loved the disability representation. This book is full of action, great side characters and story. The FMC has been overlooked by the majority his whole life and is now showing signs to prove that maybe people shouldn't be so quick to judge. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really good fantasy read! I loved how unique the main character is and Smith's world building was really good! I couldn't put the book down once I started. I also liked how there was no annoying obsession with a love interest. It was just right. I can't wait to follow the rest of the series.
February 11, 2026
Excellent book that leaves you wanting more!
I usually dislike books that end of cliffhangers, but Vengeance Has No Sound was an excellent read. The characters are well-fleshed out, and the world is rip with mysteries to be unraveled. I’m interested in finding out what happens as Nova learns more about himself and what he can do.
I usually dislike books that end of cliffhangers, but Vengeance Has No Sound was an excellent read. The characters are well-fleshed out, and the world is rip with mysteries to be unraveled. I’m interested in finding out what happens as Nova learns more about himself and what he can do.
April 2, 2026
I believe this book was really well written and creative. I believe at first I struggled due to it being a digital book I love a paper back or hard back which I hope comes in the future. I hope to know what happens next for Nova and I do believe that I would love more details on the beast that the legionaries are fighting. I truly enjoyed the storyline thus far and can’t wait for more!
April 11, 2026
I really enjoyed this read! It felt very fresh, and I loved the beast lore! I could easily visualize these incredible creatures and settings within the story, and I also loved seeing the disability representation in this. It was so interesting to get to experience the world with Nova. I can’t wait for book two!
January 4, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! I loved the MMC and the disability representation in the story. I loved one little creature so much as well! There were so many action packed scenes and now the ending has me needing more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was hooked once I started reading. Nova the mmc is deaf but he can sense things others can't. The magic and world building were amazing. This book has no spice but it does have some amazing fight scenes and neat creatures. This book was amazing!
Read
February 7, 2026Soooo good
Oh my goodness. This was amazing. The character development and world building is incredible. Love it. One of the best books I've read in ages. The fact that the second one isn't out yet has me in tatters. I may die not being able to find out what happens until who knows when!
Oh my goodness. This was amazing. The character development and world building is incredible. Love it. One of the best books I've read in ages. The fact that the second one isn't out yet has me in tatters. I may die not being able to find out what happens until who knows when!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thought it had amazing storytelling. everything about this book was very enjoyable and entertaining. I couldn’t put it down. I was that intrigued in this book.
Want to Read
December 4, 2025"Legends bleed" oooh this sounds intriguing! Can't wait until it's released.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review!! The world building is easy to keep up and follow. A great storyline and I enjoyed this book. The book follows Nova, his friends & commanders on a journey to save the barriers. Nova is deaf surrounded by hearing people. They counted him out and thinks he is a burden. He is proven them otherwise! Bodin, Zuri and his dad never counted him out! Glad to see Elara views on him changed. Happy that he found a moment to have community with others like him. I’m excited to see what is next for Nova and Vox!!! I’m already eager for the next book!
February 18, 2026
Inpatient as I Wait
This book reminded me of the old epic fantasies—quests, friends, hero’s and a true underdog. Despite the prejudice against the MMC, Nova’s heart is bigger than all of that. Smith’s world building, layered characters, and unhinged monsters kept me glued to the very end! Only to be crushed, waiting for the second book. Absolutely recommend. Five stars.
This book reminded me of the old epic fantasies—quests, friends, hero’s and a true underdog. Despite the prejudice against the MMC, Nova’s heart is bigger than all of that. Smith’s world building, layered characters, and unhinged monsters kept me glued to the very end! Only to be crushed, waiting for the second book. Absolutely recommend. Five stars.
February 3, 2026
4.5 stars! Thank you to the author for this ARC in return for my honest review. So let’s just say this….I ATE THIS UP. I remember reading a synopsis when I signed up, but I forgot about it once the ARC came and went in pretty blind. And this truly exceeded my expectations. The main character has my heart FOREVER. I love you Nova 😩 Such a fierce character that truly didn’t let anything stop him from doing what needed to be done. His relationship with his bestie Bodin was *chefs kiss* Their banter was everything and Bodin was truly funny as hell. The characters felt real. I think that’s what truly did it for me. Many people can relate to Nova and I think it’s fantastic to have a character representing what he does! It will forsure help a lot of readers to feel seen. I need the next book ASAP. Ok? 😮💨
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews