Raistlin is a wonderful morally gray character. He can manipulate and con his way into almost any situation and turn it to his advantage. This showcases him playing both sides, the light and dark, masterfully. Readers will be entranced by his scheming ways and the small glimpses of hope that he genuinely cares for others.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/dragons-of-the-hourglass-mage-by-margaret-we...

Filled with brutal conflict and emotional upheavals. Each battle raises the stakes higher and higher. Characters are forced to face their own limitations and push themselves ever closer to the edge of what they can handle. This is a story for readers who enjoy large climactic struggles and generous amounts of character development.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-alchemist-awakening-by-l-a-wasielewski-b...

Abby‘s quest to save Gretchen is filled with unsettling and creepy imagery. My Best Friend's Exorcism is perfect for those who enjoy 80s horror. And while there may have been moments that interrupted the story pacing, once it got back on track it really took off. If you're a reader who enjoys possession based horror, this is the story for you.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/my-best-friend-s-exorcism-by-grady-hendrix-b...

This does a good job showing the beauty of living a fulfilling life. And while there aren‘t many jokes woven into the tale, Apollo the ghost dog is sure to make a few readers laugh. This is for those who are looking for a lighter read about life after death, and quirky characters who try to do their best to help people cross over.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/under-the-whispering-door-by-tj-klune-book-r...

There is a plethora of new information given to the reader on the nature of magic and its uses. Not to mention some underlying tension and mystery from secondary characters who make their first appearance in this novel. With an abundance of potential, it‘s hard not to demand the next book just to see what direction the story will take.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/magic-in-the-shadows-by-devon-monk-book-revi...

A fascinating look into what can happen in alternate lives. Please note this book may be triggering as the catalyst is Nona taking her life. But it also contains messages of hope. Each life Nora experiences drives her towards a better understanding of happiness and how to let go of regrets. This is a book for readers who enjoy motivational stories with a hint of sci-fi.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-midnight-library-by-matt-haig

The Ghost has been abducting teenagers from the magical community. When the guys investigate and find no leads they ask Tori for help. Dressed up as a mythic runaway Tori becomes the Ghosts‘ newest bait. But before the boys can capture him, she‘s taken. In the middle of nowhere, with no way for the guys to find her, Tori has to find her own way home.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/dark-arts-and-a-daiquiri-by-annette-marie-bo...

This was emotionally impactful, and constantly moving forward. Despite taking breaks between tales for side conversations, every moment capitalized on the displayed emotions and cultivated a compelling reading experience. I recommend this to readers who enjoy Asian inspired tales dedicated to the need for women's voices to be heard and recognized.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-empress-of-salt-and-fortune-by-nghi-vo-b...

The Alchemist: Dark Horizon lives up to its title as Ryris and his companions are drawn into a darker fantasy tale rife with heartbreak and sacrifice. Ryris's character development blossoms throughout this novel and is sure to continue in the next. I can‘t wait to see how alchemy and magic will be forged to fight against the encroaching evil.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-alchemist-dark-horizon-by-l-a-wasielewsk...

Three Mages and a Margarita is a quick and easy read with plenty of action and comedy. Witnessing Tori hold her own amongst the magical community is a fun ride. And as she begins to form connections with the guild members, there is a definite theme of found family being established. I can‘t wait to see what is in store for Tori in the next novel.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/three-mages-and-a-margarita-by-annette-marie...

While there are undertones of heavier subjects, they accent the story and embellish the heartfelt messages of acceptance and found family. The witty banter between characters as they learn to trust one another will charm you. By the end, you‘ll have a smile on your face and a fond memory of all the adventures Linus and the children embarked on.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea-by-tj-kline-bo...

If you are looking to see if this type of fiction is right for you, pick up You‘ve Reached Sam. It does not go as deeply into the stages of grief as some other YA novels, and you‘ll be able to see if it is something you‘d like to continue reading.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/you-ve-reached-sam-by-duston-thao-book-revie...

A magic-filled adventure with wonderful characters. There will also be character appearances from the previous novels in the series. I enjoy how each novel is its own adventure and can be read separately or in order. Though reading them out of order may spoil the previous novels. If you enjoy easy-to-read, lighter-hearted fantasy give this a try!

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/heir-of-magic-and-mischance-by-rachanee-luma...

Thanks for the tag @Eggs! I picked my current read to add to this.

1: I'm working on getting to 10,000 steps a day
2: I eat out Friday Night!
3: Fantasy for sure! I always enjoy a good magic slinging brawl, and the different cultures of mythical creatures you may encounter!
#WondrousWednesday
@biblioatsea @L_A_Malone @BookAddictKatie @VictoriaNichole @gabbytes

Wanna join in the tag? :)

This grimdark military fantasy will spare no one. Be prepared to dive into the darkest depths of war, and all the chaotic and tangled relationships that come along with it. Choosing a side isn‘t so easy when friends are on the opposite one. But war is war, and Rin will live up to her full potential as a deadly shaman no matter the costs.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-dragon-republic-by-r-f-kuang-book-review

The Reaper‘s Quota contemplates life, death, and the choices people make and their final paths because of them. If you enjoy dark humor and the search for a second chance give this a read. And with the way it ends, you‘ll definitely want to jump straight to book two.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-reaper-s-quota-by-sarah-mcknight-bbnya-b...

Lady Vago‘s Absolution encompasses a wider world than book one, allowing readers to experience even more delightfully gothic elements. The characters are plagued by desires and tests of faith. And the overshadowing mystery demands answers and resolution. If you enjoy gothic fantasy, you must read this duology.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/lady-vago-s-absolution-by-a-k-m-beach-book-r...

Readers who enjoy grimdark tales should give this one a try. While it may start with a heist, Curse of the Fallen grows darker with each turn of the page. And when readers reach the emotionally charged ending of this journey, they will find themselves longing for the next book.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/curse-of-the-fallen-by-h-c-newell-book-tour

Kristen Britain brilliantly builds up the depth of evil with each book. And as the desperation of the riders grows, the intensity surrounding their fate will pull readers into the narrative and refuse to let go.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/first-rider-s-call-by-kristan-britain-book-r...

A dark and disruptive story. Perspectives switched on almost every page, I had to pay careful attention to who was currently controlling Falon‘s actions. But this added another layer to the story as the characters interacting with Falon had to do the exact same thing with less information at hand than the reader. I loved every minute of it!

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/scars-of-cereba-by-rachel-emma-shaw-book-rev...

For readers who enjoy plot-driven science fiction novels, Upgrade will be the book for you. There is a mix of gene science and ever evolving problems caused by it. Instead of dwelling too long on the repercussions against relationships and personal needs. The story steadily moves along, sometimes doing time jumps to accentuate the progress of forced gene evolution.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/upgrade-by-blake-crouch-book-review

"Wishes are the dangerous mind games we play with ourselves.The only way to win is not to play." From Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn.

Epilogues for Lost Gods is a fitting conclusion to the Unwritten Runes duology. With Loki and Sigyn‘s futures hanging in the balance, readers will be set on finding out if their paths will once again be united. And along the way, there will be plenty of battles, close calls, and emotionally wrenching scenes. I‘m sad to see their stories come to an end.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/epilogues-for-lost-gods-by-cat-rector-book-r...

Kristen Britain brings to life a world of magical messengers and ancient evil. The world-building was so subtly woven into the story, that it slowly drew me in without even realizing it. If you are a fan of high fantasy novels that scale down the politics and focus more on character development, this is the series for you.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/green-rider-by-kristen-britain-book-review

Fire Study brought everything together in an explosive and compelling story. There wasn‘t a moment of respite as Yelena raced from one challenge to the next. And the characters readers have come to know and love are not safe in this final book. They will be put through the ringer as the warpers seek out anyway possible way to gain power and steal Yelena‘s soul.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/fire-study-by-maria-v-snyder-book-review

If you are new to Dragonlance, make sure to read Dragons of Autumn Twilight first. There will be light spoilers if you read this before starting The Chronicles. You‘ll also appreciate the companions' tales more. I enjoyed each story and if you're a fan of the series, you will be sure to enjoy the side tales and extra lore.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/dragonlance-love-and-war-edited-by-margaret-...

When a villain willing to risk everything to gain what he desires, goes up against a girl backed by a galaxy of resistance, a fierce space battle begins. If you enjoy sci-fi stories that deal with politics on a galaxy-wide scale, then make sure to pick up a copy of Mercury‘s Shadow.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/mercury-s-shadow-by-p-j-garcin-book-review

Putting Catherine with a character she could not stand, yet had to rely on for survival caused a heady dose of drama and tension. Add to the fact that she doesn‘t fully believe in the reason they are running away and doubting every choice they‘ve made. A Touch of Death is a book for those who enjoy dystopian novels with fiery tempered characters.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/a-touch-of-death-by-rebecca-crunden-book-rev...

A fast-paced and nail-biting ride as Loki races to save Sigyn. Surtur won‘t go down without a fight and Loki must also contend with the spiteful anger of the Gods standing in his way. I enjoyed every minute of Loki‘s sarcastic humor and determination to save Sigyn. I cannot wait for the next book!

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/that-good-mischief-by-lyra-wolf-book-review

I would recommend this if you enjoy science and engineering. Math and science are used to describe details in a way to up the ante for those who can understand the language. Unfortunately, I'm not one of those people and I found myself missing out on more physical based action and tension. However, Project Hail Mary is a good book, it just isn't the book for me.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/project-hail-mary-by-andy-weir-book-review

The Silent Dark is a thrilling mystery steeped in supernatural happenings. This is the type of story that presents readers with multiple pieces of a puzzle and urges them to continue reading in order for the pieces to create a full picture. I could not put this book down. Please note it does deal with childhood trauma at the hands of a parent. #UrbanFantasy

https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-silent-dark-by-c-j-stilling-book-review

The Dragon‘s Promise took a while to reach a steady flow of narrative. There is a great mix of romance, action, and lore, it just takes the story a little while to uncover it. And while it has its downfalls, the story does come to a satisfying ending.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-dragon-s-promise-by-elizabeth-lim-book-r...

Once again N.K. Jemisin has created an engrossing and captivating tale of culture and social awareness. Brace yourself for the stunning draw of real world politics into a fantasy setting. This book is chilling in how it connects to recent events and will pull readers in with the drive to find out how the characters endure each new challenge.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-world-we-make-by-n-k-jemisin-book-review

This was an extremely ambitious book, and if it had cut down on the subplots it would have been able to spend more time on the main story. Dan finding true friends was a great theme to add to Asylum, but the character relationships were rushed. The characterization was also inconsistent throughout the story. Not a series I will continue.

Full review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/asylum-by-madeleine-roux-book-review

When Cassidy and Jacob begin to explore the Tunnel of Bones Victoria Schwab blends fact with fiction to create a creepy and unsettling scene. Picture tunnels created from bones and rows of skulls staring out at you as you walk by. Now imagine how Cassidy feels, a girl who can see ghosts and feel the lingering presence of those unable to pass on. Great read.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/tunnel-of-bones-by-victoria-schwab-book-revi...

City of Ghosts is the perfect starting point for young readers and even adults who are interested in ghost stories. There is just enough of a spooky feeling and close encounters to draw readers in but not overwhelm them. This is a fast-paced, enjoyable read and a great series to start during October. I highly recommend this to fans of ghost stories.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/city-of-ghosts-by-victoria-schwab-book-revie...

Don't pick this up and expect it to be as exciting as the previous novels. But I also urge you to not give up on the series. This is the lull before the storm. Readers have seen the complex and thrilling abilities of Tamsyn Muir. As we venture into the final book I have a feeling all the cards will be laid out on the table and it will be a book to remember.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/nona-the-ninth-by-tamsyn-muir-book-review

This first book in the Azantian Trilogy sets a strong foundation for future stories. The magical elements and lore woven into the story provide a wonderful accent to the storytelling and characters. The Girl Who Belonged to the Sea is a book for readers who enjoy romance and relationships between strong-willed individuals. #romance #fantasy
Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-girl-who-belonged-to-the-sea-by-katherin...

I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a relationship based on instant attraction with a hint of forbidden love. This is a fantasy romance novel, with a mix of folklore as well. While it is not necessarily a fast-paced novel, it will keep readers attention with the mystery of Orianna‘s curse and her bloodlust free days running out. #romance #fantasy

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/a-lust-for-blood-by-k-c-smith-book-review

A tale for readers who enjoy various types of humor and swashbuckling adventure. And while the main antagonist is vehemently against nonhumans, Ellery‘s message of acceptance and friendship for all beings far outweighs it. With magic, dragons, humor, and pirates, there is sure to be something for everyone who enjoys a fantasy read.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-marauders-the-daughter-and-the-dragon-by...

Girl Island is an intense blend of apprehension and suspense. The reader will never know what is lurking around the corner and what new challenges will arise. This is a novel for those who enjoy a fast-paced survival tale with plenty of drama and harrowing experiences. I loved this novel! #youngadult #survival

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/girl-island-by-kate-castle-book-review

Opal and her AI Sybil are quite the team as they investigate. Programmed to keep her well-being in mind, Sybil is the constant reminder to do the safe thing. However, as readers will soon find out, through the hilarious back and forth dialogue between the two, Opal doesn‘t always listen to the safe choice. #urbanfantasy

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/minimum-wage-magic-by-rachel-aaron-book-revi...

The underlying themes of trust, acceptance and found family make this such a wonderful read. If you‘re looking for a low-stakes adventure and you don‘t mind an episodic writing style, give The Haunted Bookstore volume one a try! #lightnovel #fantasy

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-haunted-bookstore-by-shinobumaru-book-re...

Hybrid focuses on the fear of the unknown, and the aptitude to blame creatures of the same species due to the actions of one. While it isn‘t a fast-paced read, the pacing is consistent right until the end. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy horror novels with a literature writing style. If you enjoy Stephen King‘s writing, you may also enjoy this.

Review: https://www.behindthepages.org/post/hybrid-by-james-marshall-smith-book-review

A dialogue-driven narrative. It‘s a story of revolution and all the risks and sacrifices that come with it. While there are brief mentions of settings and character abilities, the focus remains on the challenges each character faces and the horrors of Oblivion. This is a novel for readers who enjoy light sci-fi and character focused stories.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/light-s-insurgent-by-ariel-paiement-book-rev...

Just as entertaining as previous novels. Twists and turns readers won‘t see until the scenes are played out on page. A new threat will be introduced seamlessly woven into the storyline to raise the stakes one last time. I am excited to see where this series will end and who will be left standing. #horror #zombies

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/dead-meat-day-8-by-nick-clausen-book-review

Wyrd Gods is a wonderful read for those who enjoy mythology. Especially if you enjoy mythology from various cultures. There are many characters to remember, but as the story progresses you‘ll grow to know each and every one of them. There is plenty of mystery and political tension within the story to keep readers engaged and guessing right up until the end.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/wyrd-gods-by-susana-imaginario-book-review

Illumine was a rocky road. Essallie was not a likable character. She started off with potential then became an angry drama queen. She was also supposed to keep the origin of her abilities secret. Yet she and various other characters begin to tell others. Not to mention a spectacular display of her powers right in her front yard. Not a series I will continue.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/illumine-by-alivia-anders-book-review

While it sets a darker tone it is a fast-paced read. There's a touch of political tension, but it serves more as a background element to accent the choices Kerelle makes. The focus of the story remains on Kerelle and her struggle against SysTech's control over her. A great novel for fans of soft sci-fi novels with military sci-fi and space exploration.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/the-stars-within-by-lena-alison-knight-book-...

Immerses readers in a fast-paced action heavy story. As each new situation rolls into the next it brings the storyline ever closer to where it all began. Simultaneously it also shows the increasingly horrid conditions other survivor groups are left to contend with. The fate of the world rests on the decisions of a few, and readers will be glued to the page.

Review https://www.behindthepages.org/post/dead-meat-day-7-by-nick-clausen-book-review