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Ink and Incantation
Celebrate the magic of books with this limited-time collection of YA Sci-Fi and Fantasy stories.
What's inside these enchanting pages?
- A fae war is brewing, and only an ancient book has the power to stop it. If only the pages weren't blank!
- A bookstore set in a steampunk world. The lights are flickering, and objects are moving. Could the bookstore really be haunted?
- A doomed love story set in the last known library. Can two teens preserve what really matters?
- Two brothers. A wandering library. How far will they be willing to go to access forbidden knowledge?
- And many more stories!
Authors Featured in Ink & Incantation
E. V. Everest, Allison Rose, Ben Green, C.L. Cannon, Jamie Dalton, Jessa Lucas, Joy Lewis, K. R. S. McEntire, Kristen S. Walker, Maria Vermisoglou, Nicole Zoltack, R. L. Medina, R.L. Perez, S. R. Breaker, Sudha Kuruganti, Tricia Copeland
What's inside these enchanting pages?
- A fae war is brewing, and only an ancient book has the power to stop it. If only the pages weren't blank!
- A bookstore set in a steampunk world. The lights are flickering, and objects are moving. Could the bookstore really be haunted?
- A doomed love story set in the last known library. Can two teens preserve what really matters?
- Two brothers. A wandering library. How far will they be willing to go to access forbidden knowledge?
- And many more stories!
Authors Featured in Ink & Incantation
E. V. Everest, Allison Rose, Ben Green, C.L. Cannon, Jamie Dalton, Jessa Lucas, Joy Lewis, K. R. S. McEntire, Kristen S. Walker, Maria Vermisoglou, Nicole Zoltack, R. L. Medina, R.L. Perez, S. R. Breaker, Sudha Kuruganti, Tricia Copeland
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2022
430 people are currently reading
4794 people want to read
About the author
E.V. Everest
27 books297 followersEvelina Everest is a tween to teen fantasy author. Ever since she discovered the summer reading program, she's been unstoppable. After all, if books contain worlds, she's pretty much an intergalactic traveler, right?
When she's not visiting other worlds or inventing her own, Evelina enjoys drinking too much coffee, playing her trombone, and petting her four fur babies. You can learn more about her work at www.evelinaeverest.com.
When she's not visiting other worlds or inventing her own, Evelina enjoys drinking too much coffee, playing her trombone, and petting her four fur babies. You can learn more about her work at www.evelinaeverest.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
August 27, 2022
A YA SFF anthology with 16 stories set around books.
With such an appealing theme, who wouldn’t want to try out this collection? Add in the SFF factor, and I was ready for a treat. However, the book catered to only some of my expectations.
On the positive side, I loved seeing the variety in the book. It covers quite a few SFF subgenres, including dystopian, epic, witchcraft, fae, high fantasy and futuristic. The authors clearly have a vivid imagination, and many stories create a great fantasy world within their limited page-space.
As it is, all stories are never at the same level when it comes to anthologies. But with 16 different contributing authors, it goes without saying that the quality is quite varied in this one. Some are highly imaginative, other drone on. Some end perfectly, others abruptly. A few stories seemed to be incomplete in some way, until I discovered that they were set in the world of some series created by the author. (Quite unfair to include these, if you ask me. How will we get an authentic experience when the story presumes some familiarity with its origin series? I couldn’t even understand why I was unable to connect more with the characters, until I saw this point mentioned by other reviewers.)
Moreover, the stories don’t feel like SHORT stories. When you have 16 stories spread across 540 pages, you can see that the average length per story is about 34 pages, thus touching novellette length. Because of the world building and writing style, I couldn’t go fast through most of the tales, though this was classified as YA! Hence a mixed feeling about the pacing of the book.
As always, I rated the stories individually. Of the sixteen stories in the book, four stories reached or crossed the 4 star mark. The rest were clustered around the 3 star level. My favourites were:
3.15 stars, based on the average of my rating for each story. I am sure I might have enjoyed this collection more were I more aware of the series in which these characters appear.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through ‘StoryOrigin’ and these are my honest thoughts about it.
A note to some other reviewers who have rated this book (though I know there’s a great chance you won’t read this): How can you read only one story and rate the book 5 stars based on that single experience? I rated one of the stories with a single star. Would it be right to rate the whole book just 1 star because of that story? Let’s be more ethical in our feedback please. When reviewing an anthology after reading just one story, don’t leave ratings!
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
With such an appealing theme, who wouldn’t want to try out this collection? Add in the SFF factor, and I was ready for a treat. However, the book catered to only some of my expectations.
On the positive side, I loved seeing the variety in the book. It covers quite a few SFF subgenres, including dystopian, epic, witchcraft, fae, high fantasy and futuristic. The authors clearly have a vivid imagination, and many stories create a great fantasy world within their limited page-space.
As it is, all stories are never at the same level when it comes to anthologies. But with 16 different contributing authors, it goes without saying that the quality is quite varied in this one. Some are highly imaginative, other drone on. Some end perfectly, others abruptly. A few stories seemed to be incomplete in some way, until I discovered that they were set in the world of some series created by the author. (Quite unfair to include these, if you ask me. How will we get an authentic experience when the story presumes some familiarity with its origin series? I couldn’t even understand why I was unable to connect more with the characters, until I saw this point mentioned by other reviewers.)
Moreover, the stories don’t feel like SHORT stories. When you have 16 stories spread across 540 pages, you can see that the average length per story is about 34 pages, thus touching novellette length. Because of the world building and writing style, I couldn’t go fast through most of the tales, though this was classified as YA! Hence a mixed feeling about the pacing of the book.
As always, I rated the stories individually. Of the sixteen stories in the book, four stories reached or crossed the 4 star mark. The rest were clustered around the 3 star level. My favourites were:
Ruthless hearts - E.V. Everest - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 – A cute story set around the unlikely friendship between two characters.
A Tomb of Roses - R.L. Perez - 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 – About twin witches who want different things and end up with different fates. This would have been a straightforward 5 star had the prologue not contained such a huge spoiler.
War of Tides and Tombs - K.R.S. McEntire - 🌟🌟🌟🌟 – A secretive library on an island and the family must do anything to protect it.
The Secrets of Ossadiyah - C.L. Cannon - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 – Two characters compete to find a mysterious grimoire. Was 4.25 stars until that brilliant ending!
3.15 stars, based on the average of my rating for each story. I am sure I might have enjoyed this collection more were I more aware of the series in which these characters appear.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through ‘StoryOrigin’ and these are my honest thoughts about it.
A note to some other reviewers who have rated this book (though I know there’s a great chance you won’t read this): How can you read only one story and rate the book 5 stars based on that single experience? I rated one of the stories with a single star. Would it be right to rate the whole book just 1 star because of that story? Let’s be more ethical in our feedback please. When reviewing an anthology after reading just one story, don’t leave ratings!
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
August 6, 2022
What a fantastic collection! They're so varied and so much fun (or painful, but still so good)!
Ruthless Hearts by E.V. Everest 5/5
So I definitely need more of this! The meet-cute between Enora & Castien is fantastic, the mystery of the library is intriguing, and I want to know how it all ends.
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez 5/5
Oh this was heartbreakingly beautiful. Twins Mona & Prue work to stay together no matter what, even though it's time to choose a new Maiden.
Books & Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou 3/5
Heather, a demon-hunting witch is searching for a powerful book. The sworn enemies to flirting & life saving happens a bit too fast.
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis 4/5
Everin is a silverblood: cursed, feared, & hunted. She escapes with a prince and the worn together to break the curse. This was dark & twisty with an unexpected ending.
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker 4/5
Portal scifi that seems like it's part of something bigger (it is actually, two of the author's other series are in this story, so yay!). Interesting but I feel like I need more backstory.
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland 3/5
Cute idea, but I was way more invested in the story within the story than the actual plot line.
Riwinne & the Haunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker 5/5
This was a fun little story, and if the others in this series are similar, I know I'm going to love them.
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton 5/5
Glenda is chosen to be a banneret but doesn't want to answer the call, so does she can to get rid of the magical sword that has claimed her.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose 5/5
This felt very Romeo & Juliette-ish, but with fae and elves. And I guess a little more communication between the main characters.
War of Tide and Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire 4/5
I loved the magic system in this one! It's so original and creative. The romance tacked onto the end felt rushed; they were enemies, what, yesterday?
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green 5/5
This gave me the same feeling I got with Terry Brooks' The Jerle Shannara trilogy. The creepy high-tech traps and feeling like you know the characters won't find what they're looking for. Another really different way to incorporate a library in the story.
Lost in Shadow by R.L. Medina 4/5
Pretty sure this is somewhere between books I. The author's GRIMM series? Does okay as a standalone, but I do need a backstory about the characters' past interactions to fully get it I think.
Awakening by Nicole Zoltack 4/5
Alan & his friends accidentally end up in a weird bookshop & discover some strange things. This one is really short and throws you in the middle of the story of an apocalyptic future thing (maybe?).
Bookwyrm by Sudha Kuruganti 5/5
Fun story connected to the author's Legend Valley series about what happens in the school library while students are studying for midterms.
Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas 5/5
What? Another academy story in the school library? Yes. And the third academy book series to add to my TBR thanks to this anthology. Mika is searching for answers from a spirit but learns to accept a part of herself she didn't like instead.
The Secrets of Ossadiyah by C.L. Cannon 5/5
Meena & Bellamy's journey to the grimoire was fantastic, but that twist at the end! I would love to see this continue.
Ruthless Hearts by E.V. Everest 5/5
So I definitely need more of this! The meet-cute between Enora & Castien is fantastic, the mystery of the library is intriguing, and I want to know how it all ends.
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez 5/5
Oh this was heartbreakingly beautiful. Twins Mona & Prue work to stay together no matter what, even though it's time to choose a new Maiden.
Books & Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou 3/5
Heather, a demon-hunting witch is searching for a powerful book. The sworn enemies to flirting & life saving happens a bit too fast.
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis 4/5
Everin is a silverblood: cursed, feared, & hunted. She escapes with a prince and the worn together to break the curse. This was dark & twisty with an unexpected ending.
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker 4/5
Portal scifi that seems like it's part of something bigger (it is actually, two of the author's other series are in this story, so yay!). Interesting but I feel like I need more backstory.
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland 3/5
Cute idea, but I was way more invested in the story within the story than the actual plot line.
Riwinne & the Haunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker 5/5
This was a fun little story, and if the others in this series are similar, I know I'm going to love them.
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton 5/5
Glenda is chosen to be a banneret but doesn't want to answer the call, so does she can to get rid of the magical sword that has claimed her.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose 5/5
This felt very Romeo & Juliette-ish, but with fae and elves. And I guess a little more communication between the main characters.
War of Tide and Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire 4/5
I loved the magic system in this one! It's so original and creative. The romance tacked onto the end felt rushed; they were enemies, what, yesterday?
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green 5/5
This gave me the same feeling I got with Terry Brooks' The Jerle Shannara trilogy. The creepy high-tech traps and feeling like you know the characters won't find what they're looking for. Another really different way to incorporate a library in the story.
Lost in Shadow by R.L. Medina 4/5
Pretty sure this is somewhere between books I. The author's GRIMM series? Does okay as a standalone, but I do need a backstory about the characters' past interactions to fully get it I think.
Awakening by Nicole Zoltack 4/5
Alan & his friends accidentally end up in a weird bookshop & discover some strange things. This one is really short and throws you in the middle of the story of an apocalyptic future thing (maybe?).
Bookwyrm by Sudha Kuruganti 5/5
Fun story connected to the author's Legend Valley series about what happens in the school library while students are studying for midterms.
Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas 5/5
What? Another academy story in the school library? Yes. And the third academy book series to add to my TBR thanks to this anthology. Mika is searching for answers from a spirit but learns to accept a part of herself she didn't like instead.
The Secrets of Ossadiyah by C.L. Cannon 5/5
Meena & Bellamy's journey to the grimoire was fantastic, but that twist at the end! I would love to see this continue.
May 25, 2024
Some real gems in here
Interesting anthology. The love of books viciously resonates with me! The characters were well developed considering the short form. in Secrets of Ossadiyqh and Lost in Shadow were my favorites, but many of the others left me wanting more!
Interesting anthology. The love of books viciously resonates with me! The characters were well developed considering the short form. in Secrets of Ossadiyqh and Lost in Shadow were my favorites, but many of the others left me wanting more!
August 7, 2022
Ink and Incantation is a bunch of young adult short stories. I wanted to read this because of Jamie Dalton’s story that is included. I found serval stories that left me wanting more and I will be checking out the series they come from.
Ruthless Hearts by E.V. Everest
In Ruthless Hearts we meet Enora and Castien. Enora is a member of the royal families and Castien is a worker in the Archives. They strike up a friendship but when something strange starts happening they have to figure out what is going on. This story is part of the Shadows and Starlight series which starts with the book Seven of Crowns
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez
A Tomb of Roses follows Prue and her sister Mona. They are twin witches who are practicing their magic all while not knowing what awaited them after the Ostara ceremony. This story takes place before the first book in the Ivy and Bone series which starts with a book of the same name.
Books and Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou
Books and Secrets is about Heather who is a book hunter on a quest to find The Great Book before it falls into the hands of the demons or anyone else with evil plans. Along with Fury, her familiar, she must get the book back for the Princess. It takes place in the world of the Cursed Girl series.
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis
A Curse of Silver follows Everin, a silverblood. She would do anything to be normal, but when her home is attacked she finds herself on the run with the Prince. As far as I can tell this is just a stand alone. Hopefully Joy Lewis decides to continue this story line because it was really good.
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker
Curse Yourself follows Noah and Laney on an adventure to another part of the multiverse where they meet Josh and Magenta. This story bring together characters from two different series. Josh and Magenta are from the Curse of the Arcadian Stone. Laney and Noah are part of the Selfless series , the first book being Save Yourself.
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland
In the Story Weavers teenage Aiden finds he has an odd connection to Mr. Farley at the book store. It is an interesting stand alone about lose and helping each other.
Riweene and the Hunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker
Riweene finds herself in the middle of a strange scene at the book store on her birthday. Meeting Key is something she won’t forget any time soon. This story is part of the Divine Warriors series which starts with Riwenne and the Mechanical Beasts.
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton
Becoming Banneret follow the start of Glenda’s journey. This is a prequel to the Banneret seres, and gives us a look into Glenda after meeting her in Worldwalker.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose
The Barren Trove is a story about Suneya and Anwar. A fae and an elf, whose people hate each other. A chance meeting might be just what is needed to bring peace to their people. This is another one that seems to be a stand alone, but I think would make a great series. Hopefully one day.
War of Tide and Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire
War of Tide and Tombs is about Joy and her family that is to protect the library her grandparents built. The books there are special. They must be kept secret. When a pirate crew shows up her family has a big decision to make. Another stand alone story, but I want more from these characters!
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green
This story has three different POVs. Temmer, the younger brother who feels that he is always taking care of his older brother. Ysliren, the older brother who is impulsive. The final POV is “you” the owner of the library who has hidden away with in it’s walls. This story is part of the RIMDUUM world, but is still a stand alone. The first book of the RIMDUUM seres is Forged in the Fallout.
Lost in Shadow by R.L. Medina
Lost in Shadows is about Rose and Grayson who are members of GRIMM that have to spend a day in the court of Princess Maloret. Rose and Grayson are from the GRIMM Academy seres, first book is Shifters and Secrets. You can meet Princess Maloret in the Inner World Series, book one is Princess of the Elves.
Awakening by Nicole Zoltack
In Awakening, an unplanned trip to a bookstore and a mean cat change Alan’s life more then the fog hanging over his town did. I believe this story is part of the Magic Incarnate series, but I am not sure how. I will be checking out the first book, A Question of Faith, to find out.
Bookwyrm by Sudra Kuruganti
Bookwyrm follows a group of students at Legend Valley who are studying for their midterms when something strange starts to happen. This is part of the Legend Valley Academy series and begins with Notorious.
The Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas
In the Omens of Wayward Witches Mika’s search for answers leads to something none of them are prepared for. This takes place in the world of the Spellfall Academy, which the first book is part of Kindle Vella and called Spells for Lost Souls.
The Secrets of Ossaddiyah by C.L. Cannon
This one follows Meena and Bellamy as they search for a powerful book. But not everything is as it seems for either of them. As far as I can tell this is it. The only story about Meena and Bellamy, which upsets me. It was an open ended ending and I need more!
Ruthless Hearts by E.V. Everest
In Ruthless Hearts we meet Enora and Castien. Enora is a member of the royal families and Castien is a worker in the Archives. They strike up a friendship but when something strange starts happening they have to figure out what is going on. This story is part of the Shadows and Starlight series which starts with the book Seven of Crowns
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez
A Tomb of Roses follows Prue and her sister Mona. They are twin witches who are practicing their magic all while not knowing what awaited them after the Ostara ceremony. This story takes place before the first book in the Ivy and Bone series which starts with a book of the same name.
Books and Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou
Books and Secrets is about Heather who is a book hunter on a quest to find The Great Book before it falls into the hands of the demons or anyone else with evil plans. Along with Fury, her familiar, she must get the book back for the Princess. It takes place in the world of the Cursed Girl series.
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis
A Curse of Silver follows Everin, a silverblood. She would do anything to be normal, but when her home is attacked she finds herself on the run with the Prince. As far as I can tell this is just a stand alone. Hopefully Joy Lewis decides to continue this story line because it was really good.
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker
Curse Yourself follows Noah and Laney on an adventure to another part of the multiverse where they meet Josh and Magenta. This story bring together characters from two different series. Josh and Magenta are from the Curse of the Arcadian Stone. Laney and Noah are part of the Selfless series , the first book being Save Yourself.
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland
In the Story Weavers teenage Aiden finds he has an odd connection to Mr. Farley at the book store. It is an interesting stand alone about lose and helping each other.
Riweene and the Hunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker
Riweene finds herself in the middle of a strange scene at the book store on her birthday. Meeting Key is something she won’t forget any time soon. This story is part of the Divine Warriors series which starts with Riwenne and the Mechanical Beasts.
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton
Becoming Banneret follow the start of Glenda’s journey. This is a prequel to the Banneret seres, and gives us a look into Glenda after meeting her in Worldwalker.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose
The Barren Trove is a story about Suneya and Anwar. A fae and an elf, whose people hate each other. A chance meeting might be just what is needed to bring peace to their people. This is another one that seems to be a stand alone, but I think would make a great series. Hopefully one day.
War of Tide and Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire
War of Tide and Tombs is about Joy and her family that is to protect the library her grandparents built. The books there are special. They must be kept secret. When a pirate crew shows up her family has a big decision to make. Another stand alone story, but I want more from these characters!
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green
This story has three different POVs. Temmer, the younger brother who feels that he is always taking care of his older brother. Ysliren, the older brother who is impulsive. The final POV is “you” the owner of the library who has hidden away with in it’s walls. This story is part of the RIMDUUM world, but is still a stand alone. The first book of the RIMDUUM seres is Forged in the Fallout.
Lost in Shadow by R.L. Medina
Lost in Shadows is about Rose and Grayson who are members of GRIMM that have to spend a day in the court of Princess Maloret. Rose and Grayson are from the GRIMM Academy seres, first book is Shifters and Secrets. You can meet Princess Maloret in the Inner World Series, book one is Princess of the Elves.
Awakening by Nicole Zoltack
In Awakening, an unplanned trip to a bookstore and a mean cat change Alan’s life more then the fog hanging over his town did. I believe this story is part of the Magic Incarnate series, but I am not sure how. I will be checking out the first book, A Question of Faith, to find out.
Bookwyrm by Sudra Kuruganti
Bookwyrm follows a group of students at Legend Valley who are studying for their midterms when something strange starts to happen. This is part of the Legend Valley Academy series and begins with Notorious.
The Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas
In the Omens of Wayward Witches Mika’s search for answers leads to something none of them are prepared for. This takes place in the world of the Spellfall Academy, which the first book is part of Kindle Vella and called Spells for Lost Souls.
The Secrets of Ossaddiyah by C.L. Cannon
This one follows Meena and Bellamy as they search for a powerful book. But not everything is as it seems for either of them. As far as I can tell this is it. The only story about Meena and Bellamy, which upsets me. It was an open ended ending and I need more!
Read
August 9, 2022Words cannot express how much I enjoyed this set. Each story keeps you tied to the edge of your seat. And each author has such a way with words. I can't say that there was a story in this set that I didn't absolutely enjoy reading. I highly recommend to everyone this set and the wonderful authors compiled within. You definitely won't regret reading it.
August 4, 2022
A Super YA Fantasy Anthology
Written on a theme of books and libraries by16 different authors, this is a smorgasbord of different fantastical approaches to magical affects from and on books and libraries.
It is listed as YA fiction, but I can’t imagine an adult who would not be entranced by the worlds in these short stories.
And the good news is that many of these carry on from the novellas here to full-blown novels and even series.
I was not familiar with all of the authors included here, but I’m looking for more from them!
Written on a theme of books and libraries by16 different authors, this is a smorgasbord of different fantastical approaches to magical affects from and on books and libraries.
It is listed as YA fiction, but I can’t imagine an adult who would not be entranced by the worlds in these short stories.
And the good news is that many of these carry on from the novellas here to full-blown novels and even series.
I was not familiar with all of the authors included here, but I’m looking for more from them!
August 3, 2022
Ink & Incantation: An Enchanting YA Anthology Featuring Books & Libraries, #1), my second read from author E.V. Everest. After reading Seven Crowns (Bellaton, #1), I was up for another read from this author. Enjoyable, well-written collection of 33 YA Sci-Fi and Fantasy short reads from a group of well-read authors with links to that author at the end of their contribution. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
April 13, 2025
A great anthology with book-themed YA fantasy stories.
August 4, 2022
Good introduction to YA authors
This is a collection of stories with the theme set in books and fantasy. I especially liked 'Bookwyrm' by Sudha Kuruganti.
I received this as an ARC.
This is a collection of stories with the theme set in books and fantasy. I especially liked 'Bookwyrm' by Sudha Kuruganti.
I received this as an ARC.
July 28, 2022
I received a review copy from author C. L. Cannon of her short story, Secrets of Ossadiyah. All opinions are my own.
I was really impressed by this! For such a short story I was blown away by the world-building. I loved how I was able to get such a good grasp on the political tension depicted as well. The banter between the characters was a lot of fun and that ending left me needing so much more! I've rated this one four stars because I found some of the tropes to be pretty standard for a fantasy but overall I really enjoyed this and am excited to read more from this author in the future! Happy Reading :)
I was really impressed by this! For such a short story I was blown away by the world-building. I loved how I was able to get such a good grasp on the political tension depicted as well. The banter between the characters was a lot of fun and that ending left me needing so much more! I've rated this one four stars because I found some of the tropes to be pretty standard for a fantasy but overall I really enjoyed this and am excited to read more from this author in the future! Happy Reading :)
July 24, 2022
This review is specifically for: The Secrets of Ossadiyah, from the Ink & Incantation anthology.
This was my first short story from C.L. Cannon and I was quite pleased to read it. This features only a handful of characters, and they were all painted well. I enjoyed getting a small glimpse into the lives of the two main characters, and I love any story that mixes fantasy and romance.
The world was well developed I thought, and the inclusion of magic was exciting. The characters were diverse enough to draw interest but relatable enough to understand their motivations. The glimpse of romance was clean, with no love triangle in this story.
All in all, I was pleased to read this as my first story from C.L. Cannon. Interesting world, enjoyable characters, budding romance and intrigue made for a wonderful short story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first short story from C.L. Cannon and I was quite pleased to read it. This features only a handful of characters, and they were all painted well. I enjoyed getting a small glimpse into the lives of the two main characters, and I love any story that mixes fantasy and romance.
The world was well developed I thought, and the inclusion of magic was exciting. The characters were diverse enough to draw interest but relatable enough to understand their motivations. The glimpse of romance was clean, with no love triangle in this story.
All in all, I was pleased to read this as my first story from C.L. Cannon. Interesting world, enjoyable characters, budding romance and intrigue made for a wonderful short story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 29, 2022
Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this is an honest review. An amazing collection of stories by a series of authors that weave magic, adventure and the power books delivers stories and places you want to stop into. Highly recommended.
July 27, 2022
C. L. Cannon’s short story The Secrets of Ossadiyah will leave you wanting more. Meena & Bellamy are searching for a mysterious grimoire. Each character’s point of view bounces back and forth as they discover what threats lie ahead. Each one needs to find the grimoire for different reasons. There is plenty of action and adventure with quite the twist at the end. Read to find out what happens if and when they find it.
July 25, 2022
Really liked this short story. Reminded me of the treasure hunting genre movies like National Treasure and Indiana Jones. Really entertaining. Left me wanting more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2022
Although it was a short story I enjoyed getting to know Meena and Bellamy. They were both instantly likeable and though they had very different upbringing you could quickly see that they both were doing what they thought was right.
I will look forward to reading more about them in the future.
I received a free copy of this story in exchange for an honest review and am happy to supply this.
I will look forward to reading more about them in the future.
I received a free copy of this story in exchange for an honest review and am happy to supply this.
September 4, 2022
Ink and Incantation is a great book of short stories that gives the reader a little taste from authors they might not have given a try. I’ve been making my way back into reading this year and ran across Jamie Dalton on Tiktok and immediately decided to give her a try and I’m so glad I did. I originally requested an arc of incantation because I was interested in reading Becoming Banneret, but really enjoyed reading a little bit of everything. The other two stories that I loved were C.l. Cannons The Secrets of Ossadiyah and Bookwyrm was also really fun.
August 6, 2022
A great collection of short fantasy stories featuring books! The genres are quite different ranging from futuristic fantasy, epic fantasy, witches and the like. Each story is quite different and all stories are interesting! I received a free copy of the book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 5, 2022
I found most of these stories to my liking and thought that they were imaginative and well written, holding my interest throughout the read.
I would recommend this book to all those who enjoy reading about magical situations and libraries and really who doesn’t love the two? Most of us got our love of reading from checking out books in libraries that caught our interest!
I found it a perfect escape from the problems and troubles in our country and the world at present. I could read and picture those stories happening as I read them and agreeing that one shouldn’t judge another by what they are but rather by who they are!
It’s something we all should strive to do more often! Maybe some of the problems in this world would be eliminated by using that criteria!
Why not spend an hour or so each day reading one of these stories. I think you’ll feel better as a result. It’s far better than watching the tv where quality has been missing for so long that a good show is almost impossible to find anymore!
I would recommend this book to all those who enjoy reading about magical situations and libraries and really who doesn’t love the two? Most of us got our love of reading from checking out books in libraries that caught our interest!
I found it a perfect escape from the problems and troubles in our country and the world at present. I could read and picture those stories happening as I read them and agreeing that one shouldn’t judge another by what they are but rather by who they are!
It’s something we all should strive to do more often! Maybe some of the problems in this world would be eliminated by using that criteria!
Why not spend an hour or so each day reading one of these stories. I think you’ll feel better as a result. It’s far better than watching the tv where quality has been missing for so long that a good show is almost impossible to find anymore!
August 14, 2022
This review is for Bookwyrm in this anthology.
It's always fun to read a story that is, in essence, "the continuing adventures of" when a good series has come to an end. This story is from the Legend Valley Academy series and follows the main characters in an adventure that feels like it could be just another day at the academy. There's a great mix of mischief, mystery, and magic in this short story. So much entertainment in so few pages!
It's always fun to read a story that is, in essence, "the continuing adventures of" when a good series has come to an end. This story is from the Legend Valley Academy series and follows the main characters in an adventure that feels like it could be just another day at the academy. There's a great mix of mischief, mystery, and magic in this short story. So much entertainment in so few pages!
August 24, 2022
A great collection with an interesting variety of stories. I enjoying reading stories such as Ruthless Hearts by E.V. Everest - where Enora's life of privilege has been planned out for her, but will it change when she meets Castien? I enjoyed this quick story, and had to find out what happened in the end for them.
I enjoyed other reads in this collection, and found all the stories to be entertaining and loved exploring new authors tales, that I had not read before.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
I enjoyed other reads in this collection, and found all the stories to be entertaining and loved exploring new authors tales, that I had not read before.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
August 6, 2022
The Secrets of Ossadiyah by C.L. Cannon is a must read if you enjoy treasure hunting, traps, mystery and intrigue.
I love this book. The story is told by going back and forth between Meena's and Bellamy's point of view. Which is a great way to tell a story like this because both story lines are happening simultaneously and breaking it into different characters point of views makes it easier to keep track of in my opinion. The unexpected twists and turns are easy to follow and make the whole story flow easily without things feeling empty or forced. The whole thing had me on the edge of my seat, eager to finish the story but sad when it was over.
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
I love this book. The story is told by going back and forth between Meena's and Bellamy's point of view. Which is a great way to tell a story like this because both story lines are happening simultaneously and breaking it into different characters point of views makes it easier to keep track of in my opinion. The unexpected twists and turns are easy to follow and make the whole story flow easily without things feeling empty or forced. The whole thing had me on the edge of my seat, eager to finish the story but sad when it was over.
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
August 7, 2022
I read the Secrets of Ossadiyah
What an interesting story about finding a lost book. It is one that keeps you engaged from the start, I definitely did not see the end coming. There was a lot going on in this short story, but I enjoyed how the main characters, who were very different, found a way to help each other. I enjoyed all the tests they had to go through to get the book, they were interesting and well thought out. I liked the equal measure test, I thought it would be an Indiana Jones moment, but it was a different type of measure. Overall, it is a fun quick read with interesting characters. I recommend you read this story.
What an interesting story about finding a lost book. It is one that keeps you engaged from the start, I definitely did not see the end coming. There was a lot going on in this short story, but I enjoyed how the main characters, who were very different, found a way to help each other. I enjoyed all the tests they had to go through to get the book, they were interesting and well thought out. I liked the equal measure test, I thought it would be an Indiana Jones moment, but it was a different type of measure. Overall, it is a fun quick read with interesting characters. I recommend you read this story.
August 11, 2022
What's inside these enchanting pages?
- A fae war is brewing, and only an ancient book has the power to stop it. If only the pages weren't blank!
- A bookstore set in a steampunk world. The lights are flickering, and objects are moving. Could the bookstore really be haunted?
- A doomed love story set in the last known library. Can two teens preserve what really matters?
- Two brothers. A wandering library. How far will they be willing to go to access forbidden knowledge?
Such a great collection of awesome books for you to read don't miss out on this deal.
- A fae war is brewing, and only an ancient book has the power to stop it. If only the pages weren't blank!
- A bookstore set in a steampunk world. The lights are flickering, and objects are moving. Could the bookstore really be haunted?
- A doomed love story set in the last known library. Can two teens preserve what really matters?
- Two brothers. A wandering library. How far will they be willing to go to access forbidden knowledge?
Such a great collection of awesome books for you to read don't miss out on this deal.
August 4, 2022
Specifically for Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton
I mean. Let’s be honest. Anything in the worldwalker world is gonna be great. I like that this was a separate short story to the books in the series itself tho bc it gave some good insight into Glenda’s background and such but made it fun and interesting. It separated her story from the other series’ characters instead than it being like some other series and having her background be a random info dump in the middle of a random chapter lol. Idk if that makes sense so if not, basic gist: it was v good :))
I was given an arc but my thoughts r v much my own
I mean. Let’s be honest. Anything in the worldwalker world is gonna be great. I like that this was a separate short story to the books in the series itself tho bc it gave some good insight into Glenda’s background and such but made it fun and interesting. It separated her story from the other series’ characters instead than it being like some other series and having her background be a random info dump in the middle of a random chapter lol. Idk if that makes sense so if not, basic gist: it was v good :))
I was given an arc but my thoughts r v much my own
August 4, 2022
I love anthologies and I luckily got hold of this one early and loved it. All have a scifi/fantasy feel to them and all were so interesting to read. And liked the theme that tied them all together. And most were new authors to me so I got to get a feel for how they wrote and their stories. Have to say I enjoyed them all. Loved that they all revolved around books. Loved all the worlds in the anthology. While these were not full novels, the world building was good enough to give a good story.
September 4, 2022
Because this is an anthology I did a review for each story. There were some that I liked more than others. But honestly there was not a story in this anthology I did not enjoy. My only problem now is that I have added a whole new list of authors I have to read now. 😆
Ruthless by E.V. Everest *****
Reminded me of Fahrenheit 451 meet Romeo and Juliet. Enora lives the high society life with an over barring mother and no choice in her future. She finds a haven in a archive building of physical books in a world where everything is digital. Also she finds Castien a bastard of another high society family who can tell the future and they fall in love. Will Enora and Castien find a place of their own where society does not dictate who they must be?
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker ***
Let me make myself clear the rating is because I have not read this author and because it’s crossover of her books it was a bit confusing for me. But that’s not to say that it wasn’t an excellent story and I now want to read more from the author. I will put Selfless and Nameless Fay on my TBR. The story centers around Laney and Noah who travel to other worlds through a multiverse. They have a fight and are accidentally sent to a world they do not know. There they meet Josh and Magenta and they are soon being chased by a monster and looking for a way out.
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez *****
I truly enjoyed this story about Pru and Her twin sister Mona who are witches. They try to escape their fate one to become the Maiden and the other to power the Maiden. They accidentally release a demon instead of binding their powers together. I enjoyed the story and when researching the story found it was the beginning to a book she has written
which I will now be putting on the TBR list.
Books & Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou *****
A book about a witch who wants to be a librarian I’ll check out that book! Heathers job is to track down missing books hoping to be a librarian someday. This assignment find The Great Book. With her cat familiar Fury they go from library to library through passages. She ends up altering reality and becomes a librarian is a small library in Switzerland. There she meets Ram who is a half demon who is searching for the book as well to help him destroy demons. Can they trust each other and find the book?
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis ****
A enjoyable story with a slight twist that I saw coming still a good read. Everin is curse to be born Silverblood. She has a silver substance that is magic in her. There are Mage hunters who kill all Silverblood. The castle she works at is set on fire and she escapes along with Prince Alaric who says he is also Silverblood. The prince has a book called The Book of Dissimulation that he says can stifle and hide their power but it’s missing pages. Can they find the missing pages before the Mage Hunters find them?
War of Tides & Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire ****
I enjoyed this book though I thought it was a bit to fast paced. It was 20 pages and although it is a short story I think a few more pages would have made it read a little less choppy. Joy lives in the Kalani Isles in a small village where 50 years ago to save magic from extinction they put all of theirs into books. There is a war raging out in the world with magic beasts, some people believe they should be tamed while others left alone. A crew of pirates one of them her brother Ktorr have come to the island to find a book to defeat the monsters and beasts. Now Joy must join her brother and the pirates to retrieve the book and save their world.
Riwenne & the Haunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker ****
A cute story about a girl Riwenne who is given money, by the head matron of her school, for her birthday to buy a book. While there she runs into a girl who will only identify herself as Key. She is looking for a mystery thing causing lights to flicker and books to fall from shelves. Riwenne wants to help but will Key let her and what is it that she’s hunting?
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland *****
A fun fantastical story of a young boy Aiden and an older man Mr. Farley who can hear each other thoughts and talk to each other through their minds. The young boy does not know what is going on but as he hears the story Mr. Farley is working on he starts to make suggestions and watching Mr. Farley far away. Why is this happening and can the thoughts be taken away?
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton *****
A intriguing story about wether or not we have free will or is our destiny already written. Glenda is given a magic sword showing she will be a Banneret like her parents. She does not want that life she tries to give her best friend Marcus the sword because he desires to be a Banneret. The sword will not except him. So they go out doing their best to see if the sword will leave Glenda.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose *****
This story will leave you with questions but that is the point I believe. Suneya is a Fae and Anwar is an Elf. Both of their races are enemies and attack each other. But for the two they don’t understand why? The two have been drawn towards each other and have fallen in love meeting weekly in the Barren Trove. It will be up to them to see if peace is possible.
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green *****
This is a story for all of us who have had to deal with those who want to control what we can and cannot read. A women who lives in a world that fiction is forbidden collects fictions from her people the Loamin as well as from Humans. When a council of Lomain try to stop her she hides the library with a magic bag and hides herself in it as well. This becomes a curse as hundreds of years go by and she becomes the library. The traps she had set to protect the stories are so good they kill those who come. Now two brothers come looking for the books will they be the next victims of a library that has no choice but to protect her books from everyone?
Lost in Shadow by R.L Medina ****
A good story about dealing with the scars on the inside. Rose and her boyfriend Grayson are GRIMM studying on how to deal with monsters. Rose makes a deal with a Fae Princess to save Grayson’s life. They now have to spend a day at the Fae’s court and learn from her.
The Secrets of Ossadiyah by C.L. Cannon ****
This is one of those stories that I wish there was more of. Meena is searching the Grimoire of High Magnus Alastair Senneca for her order the Eastern Veil. Bellamy is searching for it to give to his mentor Lorcan who is trying to use the book to help the poor of their community. They have to work together to get the book but once they have it who will take it back to their people?
Alan’s Awakening by Nicole Zoltack *****
A intriguing story that left me with questions. What is the mysterious fog? What happens to those how are left behind? The story begins with three friends Alan, Ned and Brian. They will all soon be moving away from their home town. A massive storm and a strange fog are destroying the land and those who can are moving away. The boys decide to leave town on a small drive just because soon they will be separated. They run out of gas in front of a strange bookstore full of books and unusual items. A cat there scratches Alan’s hand on purpose and his blood lands on a mystery box. The shop owner becomes very scared and pushes them out of the store and gives Alan the box. Now Alan has to decide so I open the strange box that is calling to me or does he leave it closed out of fear?
Bookwyrm by Sudha Kuruganti ****
This story was a fun little mystery and also gave me flashbacks of last minute cramming for tests! Students at Legend Valley Academy are at the school library studying for midterms. Several student such as Alejandra , Leela and Mal are under a lot of pressure to do well. As they start to study and work hard they are starting to loose memories. Its up to them and their friends to find out what is causing this.
Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas ****
At Spellfall Academy Mika is searching the library with her friend Sabbath, they are looking for a way Mika can talk to her dead mother. She was considered the witching worlds greatest traitor. Her mother one day decided to destroy their entire High Council. Mika wants to know why she did and if there is a chance she will turn out like her mom. At the library they find a dangerous book that will help communicate with the dead. As they read a pair of twins Tuesday and Tomorrow also want to use the book take it. They will have to work together to use enough power to find the answers to their questions. But will they make it out of the library alive and will they gets their answers?
Ruthless by E.V. Everest *****
Reminded me of Fahrenheit 451 meet Romeo and Juliet. Enora lives the high society life with an over barring mother and no choice in her future. She finds a haven in a archive building of physical books in a world where everything is digital. Also she finds Castien a bastard of another high society family who can tell the future and they fall in love. Will Enora and Castien find a place of their own where society does not dictate who they must be?
Curse Yourself by S. Breaker ***
Let me make myself clear the rating is because I have not read this author and because it’s crossover of her books it was a bit confusing for me. But that’s not to say that it wasn’t an excellent story and I now want to read more from the author. I will put Selfless and Nameless Fay on my TBR. The story centers around Laney and Noah who travel to other worlds through a multiverse. They have a fight and are accidentally sent to a world they do not know. There they meet Josh and Magenta and they are soon being chased by a monster and looking for a way out.
A Tomb of Roses by R.L. Perez *****
I truly enjoyed this story about Pru and Her twin sister Mona who are witches. They try to escape their fate one to become the Maiden and the other to power the Maiden. They accidentally release a demon instead of binding their powers together. I enjoyed the story and when researching the story found it was the beginning to a book she has written
which I will now be putting on the TBR list.
Books & Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou *****
A book about a witch who wants to be a librarian I’ll check out that book! Heathers job is to track down missing books hoping to be a librarian someday. This assignment find The Great Book. With her cat familiar Fury they go from library to library through passages. She ends up altering reality and becomes a librarian is a small library in Switzerland. There she meets Ram who is a half demon who is searching for the book as well to help him destroy demons. Can they trust each other and find the book?
A Curse of Silver by Joy Lewis ****
A enjoyable story with a slight twist that I saw coming still a good read. Everin is curse to be born Silverblood. She has a silver substance that is magic in her. There are Mage hunters who kill all Silverblood. The castle she works at is set on fire and she escapes along with Prince Alaric who says he is also Silverblood. The prince has a book called The Book of Dissimulation that he says can stifle and hide their power but it’s missing pages. Can they find the missing pages before the Mage Hunters find them?
War of Tides & Tombs by K.R.S. McEntire ****
I enjoyed this book though I thought it was a bit to fast paced. It was 20 pages and although it is a short story I think a few more pages would have made it read a little less choppy. Joy lives in the Kalani Isles in a small village where 50 years ago to save magic from extinction they put all of theirs into books. There is a war raging out in the world with magic beasts, some people believe they should be tamed while others left alone. A crew of pirates one of them her brother Ktorr have come to the island to find a book to defeat the monsters and beasts. Now Joy must join her brother and the pirates to retrieve the book and save their world.
Riwenne & the Haunted Bookstore by Kristen S. Walker ****
A cute story about a girl Riwenne who is given money, by the head matron of her school, for her birthday to buy a book. While there she runs into a girl who will only identify herself as Key. She is looking for a mystery thing causing lights to flicker and books to fall from shelves. Riwenne wants to help but will Key let her and what is it that she’s hunting?
The Story Weavers by Tricia Copeland *****
A fun fantastical story of a young boy Aiden and an older man Mr. Farley who can hear each other thoughts and talk to each other through their minds. The young boy does not know what is going on but as he hears the story Mr. Farley is working on he starts to make suggestions and watching Mr. Farley far away. Why is this happening and can the thoughts be taken away?
Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton *****
A intriguing story about wether or not we have free will or is our destiny already written. Glenda is given a magic sword showing she will be a Banneret like her parents. She does not want that life she tries to give her best friend Marcus the sword because he desires to be a Banneret. The sword will not except him. So they go out doing their best to see if the sword will leave Glenda.
The Barren Trove by Allison Rose *****
This story will leave you with questions but that is the point I believe. Suneya is a Fae and Anwar is an Elf. Both of their races are enemies and attack each other. But for the two they don’t understand why? The two have been drawn towards each other and have fallen in love meeting weekly in the Barren Trove. It will be up to them to see if peace is possible.
The Sentinel of Braidward Library by Ben Green *****
This is a story for all of us who have had to deal with those who want to control what we can and cannot read. A women who lives in a world that fiction is forbidden collects fictions from her people the Loamin as well as from Humans. When a council of Lomain try to stop her she hides the library with a magic bag and hides herself in it as well. This becomes a curse as hundreds of years go by and she becomes the library. The traps she had set to protect the stories are so good they kill those who come. Now two brothers come looking for the books will they be the next victims of a library that has no choice but to protect her books from everyone?
Lost in Shadow by R.L Medina ****
A good story about dealing with the scars on the inside. Rose and her boyfriend Grayson are GRIMM studying on how to deal with monsters. Rose makes a deal with a Fae Princess to save Grayson’s life. They now have to spend a day at the Fae’s court and learn from her.
The Secrets of Ossadiyah by C.L. Cannon ****
This is one of those stories that I wish there was more of. Meena is searching the Grimoire of High Magnus Alastair Senneca for her order the Eastern Veil. Bellamy is searching for it to give to his mentor Lorcan who is trying to use the book to help the poor of their community. They have to work together to get the book but once they have it who will take it back to their people?
Alan’s Awakening by Nicole Zoltack *****
A intriguing story that left me with questions. What is the mysterious fog? What happens to those how are left behind? The story begins with three friends Alan, Ned and Brian. They will all soon be moving away from their home town. A massive storm and a strange fog are destroying the land and those who can are moving away. The boys decide to leave town on a small drive just because soon they will be separated. They run out of gas in front of a strange bookstore full of books and unusual items. A cat there scratches Alan’s hand on purpose and his blood lands on a mystery box. The shop owner becomes very scared and pushes them out of the store and gives Alan the box. Now Alan has to decide so I open the strange box that is calling to me or does he leave it closed out of fear?
Bookwyrm by Sudha Kuruganti ****
This story was a fun little mystery and also gave me flashbacks of last minute cramming for tests! Students at Legend Valley Academy are at the school library studying for midterms. Several student such as Alejandra , Leela and Mal are under a lot of pressure to do well. As they start to study and work hard they are starting to loose memories. Its up to them and their friends to find out what is causing this.
Omens for Wayward Witches by Jessa Lucas ****
At Spellfall Academy Mika is searching the library with her friend Sabbath, they are looking for a way Mika can talk to her dead mother. She was considered the witching worlds greatest traitor. Her mother one day decided to destroy their entire High Council. Mika wants to know why she did and if there is a chance she will turn out like her mom. At the library they find a dangerous book that will help communicate with the dead. As they read a pair of twins Tuesday and Tomorrow also want to use the book take it. They will have to work together to use enough power to find the answers to their questions. But will they make it out of the library alive and will they gets their answers?
August 25, 2022
Ruthless hearts - E V Everest
Surprisingly different, I wouldn't mind reading a series! Enora is part of one of the 7 royal families and is doomed to marry within the circle but she's rather rebellious and escaping her mother's clutches, lands up in a section of the archive library she's not really supposed to be in. She meets Castien, sweet, interesting and charming. A far cry from the ultra boring Peter who she's being forced to marry. A sweet tale of true love, greed, forced marriage and mystery. Why IS valuable information being burnt? Now that Castien has been taken away, Enora vows to find him. This combines tech with old school and I'd love more!
Curse Yourself - S Breaker
Laney is on a different dimension and is doing everything possible to return to her world with the help of a few friends. Interesting take on how each persona is the different in a different dimension. In this dimension, Noah is an irritating know it all, in Laney's dimension, he's her silent crush. Then they quantum leap to yet another dimension, a really strange one at that! They meet Magenta and Josh and now all 4 of them have to try escape a Wraith AND this dimension. It seems Laney and Noah are doomed to go from one dimension to the next, just not the one they wanted to be in
A Tomb of Rises -R L Perez
This was a really intense story! Twin sister's, witches in a coven, are earmarked to become The Maiden, to accept a third of a gods power and serve their coven. But unknown to them, only one can survive... When the twins are drawn into a darkness they cannot escape, all hell breaks loose, literally! Trying to find a solution to their predicament only leads to tragic results. Very tense, very dark, very good!
Books and Secrets - Maria Vermisoglou
Heather is a witch and a librarian. When The Great Book goes missing, Heather is tasked with finding it. Together with her familiar, Fury, she tries to locate it, all the while getting rid of demons. Enter Ram, a half demon and fireworks go off! Both the firery and the emotional! As always with a book by Maria, expect the unexpected, expect the bizarre and a ride like no other!
A Curse of Silvered - Joy Lewis
A fascinating tale of a young girl, who, because of the Silverblood in her veins, is hunted by mages. She conceals who she is, hiding out in the palace kitchen but one fateful night changes all that. I love how Joy spins a tale, how easy it is see what's going on, but with twists that even a short story captures perfectly. Be wary of being too trusting, not everyone is who they portray themselves to be! Loved this one!
War of Tides and Tombs - KRS McEntire
A cute story. I enjoyed the easy read, I enjoyed reading how magic has banned from the world but one clever family finds a way to preserve it and hide it. I enjoyed the MC, Joy, as I did Caius, who although came across rough and deadly initially, is actually a good guy. The low burn romance is sweet. Nice!
Riewenne and the Haunted Bookstore- Kristen S Walker
I normally enjoy Ghost stories but this one didn't capture my attention. In fact it felt a bit juvenile for me
The Story Weavers - Tricia Copeland
Different...a story within a story. Aiden wants to be accepted by his group of friends and dupes the bookstore owner out of money. But then Aiden starts having visions. My Farley, the store owner, is hearing the exact same thing as Aiden and starts writing it down. I got confused at times, I wasn't sure if I was reading about Aiden or Mr Farley. Good premise for a book, just fell flat for me. I struggled to find a connection, why Mr Farley's daughter kept popping up. It ended up being quite a heartening story, Aiden and Mr Farley discover they have a weird connection and correcting his error with Mr Farley, it's a sweet HEA
Becoming Banneret- Jamie Dalton
Glenda has magic but wants nothing to do with the Banneret, the royal army, she doesn't want to wield a weapon, let alone not a Banneret sword but a sword finds her and as much as she tries, she can't get rid of it. With her friend Marcus, she even tries to leave it in a dragon's treasure trove. I found it a humorous and fun read, the introduction of the Elves was interesting as was Glenda getting a glimpse of what her future might hold. Nice one.
The Barren Trove - Allison Rose
Another one I'd like to read more of. The Elves and Fae are at war, no one really seems to know why, especially Anwar and Suneya. It's a delightful tale of forbidden love, of a need for tolerance and understanding. One of hope. It also allures to a mystery, who killed Suneya's father. I'd love to see where this goes
The Sentinel of Braidward Library- Ben Green
A library portrayed as a sentient being, a library who has hidden itself away from all to protect itself and it's treasure of books, deemed to be dangerous by a council. Two brothers stumble across the library, or rather, get sucked in. One is impulsive, the other more cautious but they still get I enjoyed the sense of wonder the brothers have at discovering books for the first time. And there's a sloth, how cute is that! With the brothers love for one another, their need to protect each other, the Library slowly becomes something else, which was quite the twist!
Lost in Shadow - R L Medina
Rose is part of Grimm, tasked with fighting monsters, she barely escaped with her life fighting a witch and now has damaged hands. But she went from outcast to hero, not that it helped her much. She made a deal with a dark Elf princess, to save the life of her boyfriend. Bad idea.... although... I really enjoyed Princess Maloret, she isn't the evil Princess they think her to be, and she came across as a great fun character. It shows that one can never be complete unless one accepts all the good and the bad within oneself.
The Secrets if Ossadiyah - C L Cannon
A tale of persecution under the guise of help, The Veil has little interest in those not their own. Meena and Bellamy, both tasked with finding a Grimoire, meet. Dispite their reservations, they work together and achieve their goal. But both have been lied to, both learn truths that change their perception. Nice short story, I'd read the series of it were available
Allan's Awakening - Nicole Zoltack
Allan is an ordinary guy, attending an ordinary school and has ordinary friends. Except that his girlfriend just broke up with him, except that the town is shrouded in fog. Allan knows he has to leave. A weird encounter in a bookshop with a cat(he loathes cats BTW) sets off an even weirder occurrence, Allan is not what he thought he was... Great potential for a series!
Bookwyrm - Sudha Kuruganti
I couldn't get into this one, which is surprisingly seeing as these are all short stories. Nothing seemed to really fit, it felt disjointed and a lot felt insignificant. I'm still trying to understand what Alejandra's purpose was in relation to the other characters
Omens for Wayward Witches - Jessa Lucas
This one has a bit of everything, Witches, omens, talismans and necromancy. It's a well written story, very inventive and creative. When Tomorrow and her sister Tuesday dabble in trying to recover ancient talismans, it unleashes unexpected consequences. Mika has to relive a painful memory to try save Tuesday, secrets she keeps close to herself. Wouldn't mind a full story on this one, it could prove interesting
Surprisingly different, I wouldn't mind reading a series! Enora is part of one of the 7 royal families and is doomed to marry within the circle but she's rather rebellious and escaping her mother's clutches, lands up in a section of the archive library she's not really supposed to be in. She meets Castien, sweet, interesting and charming. A far cry from the ultra boring Peter who she's being forced to marry. A sweet tale of true love, greed, forced marriage and mystery. Why IS valuable information being burnt? Now that Castien has been taken away, Enora vows to find him. This combines tech with old school and I'd love more!
Curse Yourself - S Breaker
Laney is on a different dimension and is doing everything possible to return to her world with the help of a few friends. Interesting take on how each persona is the different in a different dimension. In this dimension, Noah is an irritating know it all, in Laney's dimension, he's her silent crush. Then they quantum leap to yet another dimension, a really strange one at that! They meet Magenta and Josh and now all 4 of them have to try escape a Wraith AND this dimension. It seems Laney and Noah are doomed to go from one dimension to the next, just not the one they wanted to be in
A Tomb of Rises -R L Perez
This was a really intense story! Twin sister's, witches in a coven, are earmarked to become The Maiden, to accept a third of a gods power and serve their coven. But unknown to them, only one can survive... When the twins are drawn into a darkness they cannot escape, all hell breaks loose, literally! Trying to find a solution to their predicament only leads to tragic results. Very tense, very dark, very good!
Books and Secrets - Maria Vermisoglou
Heather is a witch and a librarian. When The Great Book goes missing, Heather is tasked with finding it. Together with her familiar, Fury, she tries to locate it, all the while getting rid of demons. Enter Ram, a half demon and fireworks go off! Both the firery and the emotional! As always with a book by Maria, expect the unexpected, expect the bizarre and a ride like no other!
A Curse of Silvered - Joy Lewis
A fascinating tale of a young girl, who, because of the Silverblood in her veins, is hunted by mages. She conceals who she is, hiding out in the palace kitchen but one fateful night changes all that. I love how Joy spins a tale, how easy it is see what's going on, but with twists that even a short story captures perfectly. Be wary of being too trusting, not everyone is who they portray themselves to be! Loved this one!
War of Tides and Tombs - KRS McEntire
A cute story. I enjoyed the easy read, I enjoyed reading how magic has banned from the world but one clever family finds a way to preserve it and hide it. I enjoyed the MC, Joy, as I did Caius, who although came across rough and deadly initially, is actually a good guy. The low burn romance is sweet. Nice!
Riewenne and the Haunted Bookstore- Kristen S Walker
I normally enjoy Ghost stories but this one didn't capture my attention. In fact it felt a bit juvenile for me
The Story Weavers - Tricia Copeland
Different...a story within a story. Aiden wants to be accepted by his group of friends and dupes the bookstore owner out of money. But then Aiden starts having visions. My Farley, the store owner, is hearing the exact same thing as Aiden and starts writing it down. I got confused at times, I wasn't sure if I was reading about Aiden or Mr Farley. Good premise for a book, just fell flat for me. I struggled to find a connection, why Mr Farley's daughter kept popping up. It ended up being quite a heartening story, Aiden and Mr Farley discover they have a weird connection and correcting his error with Mr Farley, it's a sweet HEA
Becoming Banneret- Jamie Dalton
Glenda has magic but wants nothing to do with the Banneret, the royal army, she doesn't want to wield a weapon, let alone not a Banneret sword but a sword finds her and as much as she tries, she can't get rid of it. With her friend Marcus, she even tries to leave it in a dragon's treasure trove. I found it a humorous and fun read, the introduction of the Elves was interesting as was Glenda getting a glimpse of what her future might hold. Nice one.
The Barren Trove - Allison Rose
Another one I'd like to read more of. The Elves and Fae are at war, no one really seems to know why, especially Anwar and Suneya. It's a delightful tale of forbidden love, of a need for tolerance and understanding. One of hope. It also allures to a mystery, who killed Suneya's father. I'd love to see where this goes
The Sentinel of Braidward Library- Ben Green
A library portrayed as a sentient being, a library who has hidden itself away from all to protect itself and it's treasure of books, deemed to be dangerous by a council. Two brothers stumble across the library, or rather, get sucked in. One is impulsive, the other more cautious but they still get I enjoyed the sense of wonder the brothers have at discovering books for the first time. And there's a sloth, how cute is that! With the brothers love for one another, their need to protect each other, the Library slowly becomes something else, which was quite the twist!
Lost in Shadow - R L Medina
Rose is part of Grimm, tasked with fighting monsters, she barely escaped with her life fighting a witch and now has damaged hands. But she went from outcast to hero, not that it helped her much. She made a deal with a dark Elf princess, to save the life of her boyfriend. Bad idea.... although... I really enjoyed Princess Maloret, she isn't the evil Princess they think her to be, and she came across as a great fun character. It shows that one can never be complete unless one accepts all the good and the bad within oneself.
The Secrets if Ossadiyah - C L Cannon
A tale of persecution under the guise of help, The Veil has little interest in those not their own. Meena and Bellamy, both tasked with finding a Grimoire, meet. Dispite their reservations, they work together and achieve their goal. But both have been lied to, both learn truths that change their perception. Nice short story, I'd read the series of it were available
Allan's Awakening - Nicole Zoltack
Allan is an ordinary guy, attending an ordinary school and has ordinary friends. Except that his girlfriend just broke up with him, except that the town is shrouded in fog. Allan knows he has to leave. A weird encounter in a bookshop with a cat(he loathes cats BTW) sets off an even weirder occurrence, Allan is not what he thought he was... Great potential for a series!
Bookwyrm - Sudha Kuruganti
I couldn't get into this one, which is surprisingly seeing as these are all short stories. Nothing seemed to really fit, it felt disjointed and a lot felt insignificant. I'm still trying to understand what Alejandra's purpose was in relation to the other characters
Omens for Wayward Witches - Jessa Lucas
This one has a bit of everything, Witches, omens, talismans and necromancy. It's a well written story, very inventive and creative. When Tomorrow and her sister Tuesday dabble in trying to recover ancient talismans, it unleashes unexpected consequences. Mika has to relive a painful memory to try save Tuesday, secrets she keeps close to herself. Wouldn't mind a full story on this one, it could prove interesting
September 14, 2022
I read through these stories by request. There were a few endearing points and a couple of bright spots within. My favorite was easily Becoming Banneret by Jamie Dalton followed by Books and Secrets by Maria Vermisoglou.
The connection through books was cute. There were some intense moments and some twists that I will not divulge here for the sake of spoilers. The stories were polished and technically fine. Plot was cohesive and logical and character development was done right for each story, especially for such short stories.
However, several of the stories had dark endings while others ended with a feeling of being unfinished - as if nothing real had been accomplished by the characters. There is also some reference to homosexuality for those who seek to be warned about such things, though not in the majority of the stories.
While the anthology had an interesting premise, it seemed more like several of the authors were writing for a contest to be included under that theme than they were trying to tell a unique and compelling story.
I do want to highlight Dalton's story "Becoming Banneret" and "Books and Secrets" by Vermisoglou. Jamie's story is definitely built on a much larger foundation in the background, a short prequel to whet the reader's desire for more of her world. For those who like good world building and unique magic systems, I would recommend Becoming Banneret and other works by Ms. Dalton.
Maria's story is about a witch named Heather who is a book tracker hunting for special books by those who hire her. These books often are powerful or contain secrets that should not be left to just anyone, especially not demons. On one such job she meets a stranger named Ram who takes an interest in her, but he hides a secret that could end in death. It was a delightful read with an ending that made me smile and a hope for more of the story.
Had it only been these two stories, it would have been 5 stars all the way.
The connection through books was cute. There were some intense moments and some twists that I will not divulge here for the sake of spoilers. The stories were polished and technically fine. Plot was cohesive and logical and character development was done right for each story, especially for such short stories.
However, several of the stories had dark endings while others ended with a feeling of being unfinished - as if nothing real had been accomplished by the characters. There is also some reference to homosexuality for those who seek to be warned about such things, though not in the majority of the stories.
While the anthology had an interesting premise, it seemed more like several of the authors were writing for a contest to be included under that theme than they were trying to tell a unique and compelling story.
I do want to highlight Dalton's story "Becoming Banneret" and "Books and Secrets" by Vermisoglou. Jamie's story is definitely built on a much larger foundation in the background, a short prequel to whet the reader's desire for more of her world. For those who like good world building and unique magic systems, I would recommend Becoming Banneret and other works by Ms. Dalton.
Maria's story is about a witch named Heather who is a book tracker hunting for special books by those who hire her. These books often are powerful or contain secrets that should not be left to just anyone, especially not demons. On one such job she meets a stranger named Ram who takes an interest in her, but he hides a secret that could end in death. It was a delightful read with an ending that made me smile and a hope for more of the story.
Had it only been these two stories, it would have been 5 stars all the way.
February 19, 2024
I ended up skipping a few of the stories as they clearly tied in with existing series and so I felt I was missing too much. Some prequels can be stand alone, but some still seemed like I should know the series world. As with all anthologies the style and level of polish varied. They all follow the YA route, though some seemed younger geared than others.
My favorites were:
-C.L. Cannon's Secrets of Ossadiyah - two people, one mission: retrieve a magical book from a lost, Indiana Jonesesque library in the middle of the jungle. One works for the good of all, the other for coin. Who will succeed?
A good and unashamed YA fantasy adventure with a killer twist. The romance angle may have felt a bit rushed, but otherwise it was awesome. Full book series in the world please!
- K.R.S McEntire's War of Tides and Tombs - when pirates come ashore, a girl must do all she can to protect the source of magic: her family's hidden library deep beneath their island home.
A super imaginative one which would be even better with more time and editorial polish to really make it shine. There's so much to take in and it's a world that needs more adventures in!
My favorites were:
-C.L. Cannon's Secrets of Ossadiyah - two people, one mission: retrieve a magical book from a lost, Indiana Jonesesque library in the middle of the jungle. One works for the good of all, the other for coin. Who will succeed?
A good and unashamed YA fantasy adventure with a killer twist. The romance angle may have felt a bit rushed, but otherwise it was awesome. Full book series in the world please!
- K.R.S McEntire's War of Tides and Tombs - when pirates come ashore, a girl must do all she can to protect the source of magic: her family's hidden library deep beneath their island home.
A super imaginative one which would be even better with more time and editorial polish to really make it shine. There's so much to take in and it's a world that needs more adventures in!
November 17, 2022
I recieved this book as an arc for my honest review.
I loved this whole book! All the stories where so fun to imagine. It really is the perfect amount for introducing authors to new people as its a hand full of short stories. Great world building from every author. I would recommend this to people especially getting into or back into reading!
I also got an arc specifically for Becoming Banneret and honestly it was so good! I loved seeing glenda background and her story of how she got to where she did in life! I love its still apart of the worldwalk series but more of a side piece to it! So worth it to read.
I loved this whole book! All the stories where so fun to imagine. It really is the perfect amount for introducing authors to new people as its a hand full of short stories. Great world building from every author. I would recommend this to people especially getting into or back into reading!
I also got an arc specifically for Becoming Banneret and honestly it was so good! I loved seeing glenda background and her story of how she got to where she did in life! I love its still apart of the worldwalk series but more of a side piece to it! So worth it to read.
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