This review only represents my personal opinion and does not reflect the entire judging team’s (Red Stars) thoughts or progression in the SPSFC4 competition.
About Ashley Brennan
Review: To Catch a Witch: A Story of the Temere by E.L. Montague
Caught in a scandal with Lord Arle that draws the attention of King Harald’s Inquisition, Shenagh is forced to flee her home into the Dark Wood. The young hedge witch, pursued by Master Macon den Lough and his henchman, Cobb, is tested by the forest’s rugged terrain, dangerous predators, and legendary monsters.
Review: After the Syzygy by J.D. Sanderson
In 1977, humans placed the Golden Record on the Voyager spacecraft with the hope it would be found by an alien civilization in the future.
In 2036, the alien equivalent arrived on Earth.
Review: Reign & Ruin (Mages of the Wheel #1) by JD Evans
Reign & Ruin by J.D. Evans delivered a compelling blend of political intrigue within a Middle Eastern inspired world, scorching romance, and a meticulously crafted magic system that kept me engrossed from start to finish.
Review: The Thirteenth Hour (The Cruel Gods #1) by Trudie Skies
The Thirteenth Hour is a promising introduction to The Cruel Gods series and shines brightest with its exploration of magic, religion, and technology between mortal and divine forces. The overarching storyline is a grand and imaginative idea.
Review: Shadow Lair (Shadow Winged 0.5) by Jilleen Dolbeare
Shadow Lair is a short prequel story for the Shadow Winged Chronicles, an Alaskan folklore urban fantasy about a shapeshifting bush pilot named Piper. In this prequel, we follow Piper and her friend (Bran) as they search for Piper’s missing sister.
Review: BestGhost: A Novelette by C.J. Daley
Just outside the town of Cemetery, two teen YouTubers investigate a past mayor’s mansion because it’s rumored to be the most haunted spot for paranormal activity– and it all goes terribly wrong during their two night investigation.
Review: The Re-Emergence: An Augment Saga Novella (The Augment Saga #0.5) by Alan K. Dell
I read THE RE-EMERGENCE for the SFINCS semi-finals with team Fanfiaddict. This review only represents my personal opinion and does not reflect the entire teams thoughts. Since reading and reviewing, it’s made finals- congratulations! Thank you for reading.
Review: Shattered Spirits: The Fall of Ishcairn by Cal Black
This novella skillfully intertwines facets of gaslamp fantasy and eldritch horror, evoking a chilling and captivating narrative that surpassed my expectations. It’s an unnerving tone to the final chapters that etched themselves into my memory. A quick, yet immersive literary experience for anyone looking for a single-sitting read.
Ashley’s Top Reads of 2023
Ashley’s Top Reads of 2023. I have completed 79 books for 2023 that were largely adventurous, dark, emotional, and mysterious. My top reads this year ended up being an eclectic bunch.
Iron Gold by Pierce Brown – Rising Above to Remarkable Heights
I’m always shocked that Iron Gold is considered the weakest book in the series by many people. It’s the best book in the series by a significant margin. With Light Bringer’s recent release, I’ve been seeing rankings popping up again. This is my response to the crime being committed at seeing Iron Gold consistently ranking at the bottom.
Mid-Year Reflections: From Enchanted Forests to Deadly Space
Someone pinch me… I don’t believe it’s the end of June and we’re halfway through 2023. I’m excited to bring you my favorite books so far of 2023.