Epic fantasy / high fantasy

Book SynopsisBook thirteen of the celebrated Deverry series, an epic fantasy rooted in Celtic mythology that intricately interweaves human and elven history over several hundred years.A dagger laid against our throat.'So Prince Dar of the Westlands calls Zakh Gral, a new fortress built by the Horsekin, the ancient enemies of his people. To help him destroy this threat, the elven prince has called upon his allies: the dwarven folk of the northern mountains and the human men of Deverry to the east. Their leaders know that if the Westlands fall to the Horsekin, their own throats will feel that dagger next. Joining them are two powerful dragons, who have their own bitter reasons to hate the Horsekin.But the fanatical Horsekin believe that they have the most powerful ally of all: a new goddess. Alshandra''s priestesses have announced that she has given the Horsekin the lands belonging to the prince and that his people must be utterly destroyed.Katharine Kerr's dazzling saga tells of ancient enmities anTrade ReviewPraise for Katharine Kerr and the Deverry novels: ‘Kerr is an excellent writer, her stories live and breathe – exciting, unpredictable, and engaging in equal measure.’Mark Lawrence ‘A fantastic plot which turns a simple story into something far more original … a cracking read … engrossing’ SFX ‘A criminally under-rated and overlooked epic fantasy sequence [with] a keen sense of history, well drawn characters, and a complex plot’ Kate Elliott, author of the Spiritwalker Trilogy ‘An unusually scholarly writer of fantasy’ TELEGRAPH ‘Much as I dislike comparing anything to The Lord of the Rings, I have to admit that on this occasion it’s justified’ INTERZONE ‘Kerr is a master of her trade…She has created a world that might very well go on for ever, and this one reader sincerely hopes it does’ VECTOR ‘An extensive and complete world, whose endlessly fascinating details grow book by book’ STARLOG

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Book SynopsisA charming new pocket edition of one of Tolkien's major pieces of short fiction, and his only finished work dating from after publication of The Lord of the Rings.What began as a preface to The Golden Key by George MacDonald eventually grew into this charming short story, so named by Tolkien to suggest an early work by P.G. Wodehouse. Composed almost a decade after The Lord of the Rings, and when his lifelong occupation with the Silmarillion' was winding down, Smith of Wootton Major was the product of ripened experience and reflection. It was published in 1967 as a small hardback, complete with charming black and white illustrations by Pauline Baynes, and would be the last work of fiction to be published in Tolkien's own lifetime.Now, almost 50 years on, this enchanting tale of a wanderer who finds his way into the perilous realm of Faery is being published in paperback. Contained here are many intriguing links to the world of Middle-earth, as well as to Tolkien's other tales, and this new edition is enhanced with a facsimile of the illustrated first edition, a manuscript of Tolkien's early draft of the story, notes and an alternate ending, and a lengthy essay on the nature of Faery.Trade Review“The book has a haunting quality, characteristic of the best of the ‘deeper’ folktales. It is a beautiful, memorable story.” Times Educational Supplement “It may be compared to the most delicate miniature but it is one of a rare kind: the more closely it is examined the more it reveals the grandeur of its conception. Whoever reads it at eight will still be going back to it at eighty.” New Statesman “A tremendously valuable volume with important new insights into Tolkien’s way of working. It’s also a beautiful hardcover edition of the story.” Mythprint

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Book SynopsisWhen his beloved only daughter goes missing, millionaire entrepreneur Walter van Dam calls in a team of experts - including free-climbers, a geologist, a parapsychologist, even a medium - to find her . . . for Anna-Lena has disappeared somewhere within a mysterious cave system under the old house the family abandoned years ago. But the rescuers are not the only people on her trail - and there are dangers in the underground labyrinth that no one could ever have foreseen.In a gigantic cavern the team come across a number of strange doors, three of them marked with enigmatic symbols. Anna-Lena must be behind one of them - but time is running out and they need to choose, quickly. Anna-Lena is no longer the only person at risk.Who could have imagined that the portal marked with ! would take the rescuers into a different time completely: it is now the early Middle Ages - and they are about to find themselves in the middle of a world-changing battle . . .DOORS: THREE DOORS, THREE DIFFERENT ADVENTURES. WHICH DOOR WILL YOU CHOOSE?Trade ReviewThree exciting excursions into foreign worlds that can only be described as completely successful! * GEEK *You always know what to expect from Markus Heitz. Over the years he has been one of the staples of fantasy literature . . . he can be enjoyed by both casual readers as well as by hard-core readers * Upcoming4Me *Talented story-telling ability * Boomtron *Just as talented musicians can create a myriad symphonies with only 12 musical notes,?Heitz?demonstrates how talented writers are able to create greatly enjoyable stories based only a few basic, well known concepts * Speculative Book Review *A great example of action-oriented and unfussy quest literature. Highly recommended.' * SF Crowsnest on The Dwarves *Heitz likes to play with alternative realities . . . [he] can throw his characters into an old-school slobberknocker of a fight. The X-Files-like mystery is explored in all three novels, from slightly different perspectives * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS ! Field of Blood *There are a lot of interesting ideas throughout the DOORS experiment. They are action thrillers . . . [they] reminded me of the type of crazed abandonment that someone like Mathew Riley brings to the novels. You should enjoy the ride . . .with its gung-ho action and ephemeral characters, Colony is a book aimed more at the action science-fiction fans who just want a quick and enjoyable read * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS ? Colony *Twilight explores the idea of what happens if you leap from dimension to dimension. Imagine the finalé to Monsters Inc but in this case the monsters want to eat your face off rather than just scare you. The movement from one place to another allows for a series of entertaining little novelettes. Heitz can create an interesting and believable future and also manages to create some stalking horror elsewhere within the same story. The books can be read in any order as they are all different in style If you have the previous books fresh in your mind you will see so many more of the tendrils link one to another * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS X Twilight *Markus Heitz has treated us to an inventive idea and three thrilling novels that entertain throughout * GEEK DAD on the DOORS sequence *

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Book SynopsisAn ambitious warlord leaves his nephew for dead and seizes his lands.A stubborn father forces his younger son to surrender his wife to his older brother.A mysterious woman seeks five fathers for her children.A powerful priest meddles in the succession to the Lotus Throne.These are the threads of an intricate tapestry in which the laws of destiny play out against a backdrop of wild forest, elegant court, and savage battlefield. Set in a mythical medieval Japan inhabited by warriors and assassins, ghosts and guardian spirits, Emperor of the Eight Islands by Lian Hearn is a brilliantly imagined novel, full of drama and intrigue – the beginning of an enthralling, epic adventure: The Tale of Shikanoko.Trade ReviewA work as densely populated as a Russian novel [which] moves onwards with the narrative force of a flood. It is easy to let the book sweep the reader away, to engage with strange events, but very compelling characters [and] huge imaginative vitality. * Sydney Morning Herald *The Otori world is feudal Japan with imaginary place names, written in the spirit of The Tale of Genji and other classics. As with Genji, two warring clans seek to control the Emperor, and the country itself. The books are carefully researched, being surely the most wildly successful product of an Asialink grant. They convince as if being read in translation, as if Hearn is merely the medium for some lost and ancient text. Much like 'Game of Thrones', the book can be read as political intrigue, with great strength deriving from the character studies. Nobody is black or white, rather shades of grey. * Melbourne Age *One of the great joys of genre novels is that they usually care deeply about plot, satisfying the innately human desire for story. And there is story aplenty here. The unfolding events are so fascinating, the writing so lithe and seductive. There's no need to have read Hearn's earlier Otori series, set in the same remarkable fantasy world, to enjoy this one. Indeed, her new epic seems sure to recruit a fresh legion of fans. * The Saturday Paper *Hearn once again brings . . . a breadth of scale, ideas, and adventure that rivals any other fantasy for its pure ambition and sheer pleasure . . . Lian Hearn's return to her rich, unique universe offers everything you want from the genre, but with a wholly distinct flavor and style. In short, you'll immediately want to begin reading book two. -- Barnes & Noble blogThe action comes thick and fast . . . The compelling characters and captivating worldbuilding means readers will look forward to part two. * Japan Times *Wonderfully evocative . . . intriguing. * Queensland Times *A fitting follow-up to the Otori series * The Age *Brutally thrilling historical fantasy * The Herald Sun *A must-read * Aurealis *All kinds of brilliant. Awesome storytelling. -- Max PorterThe fluid prose and morally ambiguous characters are magically seductive. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisFrom the Gemmell Award-winning author of THE VAGRANT, a thrilling new series of power, intrigue, and magic.THE DEMONSCreatures lurk in the endless forests of the Wild, plucking victims from those who scratch a living by the sides of the great Godroads, paths of crystal which provide refuge from the infernal tide.THE DEATHLESSHumanity's protectors reign within crystal castles held aloft on magical currents seven timeless royal families, born and reborn into flawless bodies. As immortal as the precious stones from which they take their names, they fight to hold the Wild at bay. For generations a fragile balance has held.AND THE DAMNEDHouse Sapphire, one of the ancient Deathless families, is riven by suspicion and grief. Their hunting expeditions against the Wild are failing and entire villages have begun to disappear.Then, when assassins strike, House Sapphire shatters.NOTHING LASTS FOREVERTrade Review‘A unique world’Robin Hobb, bestselling author of ASSASSIN’S APPRENTICE ‘A compelling, vivid and skilfully crafted tale’SFX ‘Addictive’Starburst PRAISE FOR THE VAGRANT TRILOGY: ★★★★★ 'For fans of classic science-fiction literature, this is a must-read’SciFi Now ★★★★ 'Come visit this brilliantly imaginative land of winged swords and broken solar cells’SFX

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Book Synopsis''I couldn''t put it down'' Genevieve Cogman, author of The Invisible LibraryIn the Raverran Empire, magic is scarce and those born with power are strictly controlled - taken as children and conscripted into the Falcon Army. Zaira has lived her life on the streets to avoid this fate, hiding her mage-mark and thieving to survive. But hers is a rare and dangerous magic, one that could threaten the entire empire.Lady Amalia Cornaro was never meant to be a Falconer. Heiress and scholar, she was born into a treacherous world of political machinations. But fate has bound the heir and the mage. And as war looms on the horizon, a single spark could turn their city into a pyre.SET IN A RICH WORLD OF POLITICAL INTRIGUE AND DANGEROUS MAGIC, THE TETHERED MAGE IS A SPELLBINDING DEBUT FROM A MAJOR NEW TALENT.''An enchanting voice and an original world you won''t want to leave'' RJ Barker, author of The Bone ShipTrade ReviewThe Tethered Mage is freaking AWESOME . . . it's one of the best first novels in a brand new high fantasy series that I've read in ages . . Absolutely recommended and on my shortlist for favorite books so far in 2017 -- BOOK SMUGGLERSWhat a tremendous start to the trilogy . . . I thoroughly enjoyed every moment that I spent reading The Tethered Mage, there's action, plenty of plot twists, perfect pacing and superb world-building which combines with scintillating storytelling and a fascinating cast of characters to create a fully engrossing read . . . If you like fantasy, you'll love this book -- TATTOOED BOOK GEEKCharming, intelligent, fast-moving, beautifully atmospheric, with a heroine and other characters whom I really liked as people. (I overstayed my lunch break in order to finish it.) I would love to read more set in this world -- Genevieve Cogman, author of THE INVISIBLE LIBRARYA brilliant novel that delivers on all its initial promise. The characters are well realised and the plot is captivating . . . I was entertained from beginning to end -- THE ELOQUENT PAGEThe Tethered Mage spins two captivating tales: a battle of wills between a feisty heroine and her bonded warlock, and a battle of wits between an empire and its rivals. Stuffed with intrigue, romance, and betrayal, this is a scrumptious read -- Vic James, Author of GILDED CAGEA beautifully written political fantasy drama full of courtly intrigue, powerful enemies and phenomenal magic potential. I raced through this exquisite debut in three days and adored it -- FANTASY BOOK REVIEWCaruso deploys a dizzying mix of politics, complex interpersonal relationships and twisty plotting with an intensity that sets it apart in a crowded genre . . . Add in refreshingly developed protagonists and an unusual magic system and the result is an immensely engaging start to a welcome new series -- B&N SCI-FI AND FANTASY BLOGThe Tethered Mage is a fantastically readable, incredibly addictive and intelligently plotted fantasy novel, the start of a series that I cannot WAIT to read more of - I loved it -- LIZ LOVES BOOKSA breathtaking book. Equal parts fantasy and political intrigue, The Tethered Mage pulls readers relentlessly through labyrinthine turns of conspiracy, adventure and romance -- BOOKPAGEThis is a compelling first novel, with female characters at its heart. The tension mounts, and there's plenty of action and incident and fire and danger . . . In short, I loved it. I WANT MORE -- LIZ BOURKEIntricate and enticing as silk brocade. Caruso's heroine is a strong, intelligent young woman in a beguiling, beautifully evoked Renaissance world of high politics, courtly intrigue, love and loyalty - and fire warlocks -- Anna Smith Spark, author of THE COURT OF BROKEN KNIVESThe Tethered Mage is a riveting read, with delicious intrigue, captivating characters, and a brilliant magic system. I loved it from start to finish! -- Sarah Beth Durst, author of THE QUEEN OF BLOODEngaging and entertaining with intrigue, a good pace, and strong characters. Zaira and Amalia are bright, bold heroes in a smartly constructed world -- James Islington, author of THE SHADOW OF WHAT WAS LOSTWith a rich world, political intrigue, and action that keeps you turning pages, The Tethered Mage is classic fantasy with a fresh voice -- Jeff Wheeler, author of THE QUEEN'S POISONERAn enchanting voice and an original world you won't want to leave -- RJ Barker, author of AGE OF ASSASSINSThe Tethered Mage is gorgeous, intricate fantasy. Caruso creates a world in which magic is interwoven with politics, the fate of city-states and noble houses balancing on the daring and initiative of two compelling and vastly different heroines, supported with a rich and vivid cast of characters. One of the best new books I've read in years. I can't wait for the sequel! -- Vivian Shaw, author of STRANGE PRACTICEThe Tethered Mage is the best kind of fantasy: intricate world-building, the most intriguing of court intrigues, and a twisty plot. But while readers might pick it up for those elements, they'll stay for the engaging characters and the unlikely friendships at the story's heart -- Rosalyn Eves, author of BLOOD ROSE REBELLIONA great balance of characters, intrigue and magic and just left me wanting to read more -- SPECULATIVE HERALDThe Tethered Mage is a fantastic first novel . . . it is easily my favourite 2017 debut set in a secondary world -- FANTASY BOOK CAFE

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Book SynopsisAfter the Coming of the Dark, most immortals in the world have been killed. The religion of the Four Tribes has taken over the world, and any who resist it are crushed. They await the return of their prophesised One, who is both male and female, and neither. They have not been seen for fifteen years, but belief rules all.A few still fight. A handful of surviving immortals, once seen as gods, have hidden away. In each of the four lands of the world, there are mutterings of rebellion. And over the mountains, kept secret from the world, the One has grown into their adulthood. It is time for them to return and see what is being done in their name. And that means going to war.

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Book SynopsisThe eagerly-awaited sequel to Shadowmagic.Having returned to the real world from Tir Na Nog at the end of the last book, our hero Conor finds himself arrested for the murder of his father.When he explains to the cops that his dad is safe and well and enjoying life as king of a land of elves, imps and banshees they understandably think he is a nutcase.That is until he is rescued by Celtic warriors on horseback and taken back to Tir Na Nog, accidentally bringing a policeman with him.Once safely back in The Land, Conor finds that all is not well. His father is dying, the girl he loves is betrothed to another and a rather confused American cop is wandering around causing havoc.It falls to our young hero, and his band of friends, to find a cure for the king. On their epic journey they encounter one of the most mystical and dangerous races in The Land, the shapeshifting Pooka, and find their fates linked in ways they could never have imagined.The Prince of Hazel and Oak is a stunning fantasyTrade Review‘If Percy Jackson were to be hurled across dimensions into Middle Earth, you might hope to see a story like this one evolve.’ Mark Robson, author of the Dragon Orb and Imperial Spy books

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Book SynopsisBook Two of the new epic fantasy trilogy by the acclaimed author of GODBLIND.The Empire of Songs reigns supreme.Across all the lands of Ixachipan, its hypnotic, magical music sounds. Those who battled against the Empire have been enslaved and dispersed, taken far from their friends and their homes.In the Singing City, Xessa must fight for the entertainment of her captors. Lilla and thousands of warriors are trained to serve as weapons for their enemies. And Tayan is trapped at the heart of the Empire's power and magic, where the ruthless Enet's ambition is ever growing.Each of them harbours a secret hope, waiting for a chance to strike at the Empire from within.But first they must overcome their own desires. Power can seduce as well as crush. And, in exchange for their loyalty, the Empire promises much.Trade Review‘THE JAGUAR PATH serves up a second volume of rising danger and sharpening conflict, where enemies turn into lovers, lovers turn into whetted daggers, and every player in the game seethes with repressed emotion’E. J. Beaton, author of THE COUNCILLOR 'If you want characters who will break your heart in a world with eye popping depth and battles that leap off the page and pin you to your seat then Stephens delivers. Come for the awesome song magic but stay for the blood and fire’Stewart Hotston, author of TANGLE’S GAME and ENTROPY OF LOSS ‘An epic, bloodsoaked saga of rebellion, love, and betrayal’Peter McLean, author of PRIEST OF BONES PRAISE FOR SONGS OF THE DROWNED ‘THE STONE KNIFE has everything you’d hope for in a Stephens novel: sharp action, cracking pace, and a brutal disregard for our poor feelings. A compelling story of clashing cultures, of duty and ambition and change, that will leave you desperate for the next instalment’Sam Hawke, author of CITY OF LIES ‘A brilliant, grim, and joyous opening to a bloody new trilogy’Stewart Hotston, author of TANGLE’S GAME ‘An epic tale about the bloody repercussions of expansionism. THE STONE KNIFE explores the cruelty of empire through the eyes of characters from vastly different backgrounds, weaving a tapestry of conflict, injustice, and determination’E.J. Beaton, author of THE COUNCILLOR PRAISE FOR THE GODBLIND TRILOGY ‘A great achievement…no one does swordfights quite like Anna Stephens. We salute her with a bloody gauntlet’DAILY MAIL ‘GODBLIND is a triumph of its genre’STARBURST ‘Writes her name in blood on the roster of masters of grimdark alongside the likes of Mark Lawrence and Joe Abercrombie’B&N Sci-Fi & Fantasy Blog ‘Builds to an epic crescendo…deeply emotional and unexpectedly hopeful’PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

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Book SynopsisBOOK FOUR IN THE FIVE CROWNS OF OKRITH SERIES Neelo Emberspear, heir to the throne and realm, would never leave the library if they could help it. They certainly never asked for a kingdom or a husband to rule it with. But when their mother, the troubled queen, disastrously lights the castle on fire Neelo knows duty can be put off no longer. No matter how charming everyone else finds fae warrior Talhan Catullus, this is not what Neelo chose. Fighting to save their motherâs life and throne, Neelo is astonished when the written word brings them closer than ever to their cavalier new fiancÃ. But a dark force is rising, which not only threatens their love, but the entire continent.Trade Review‘Mulford combines steamy scenes with palace intrigue and fearsome battles. Newcomers should start with book one, but series fans will be enthralled with Bri and Lina’s story. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout, this fantasy romance is recommended for all public-library collections.’ Booklist

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Book SynopsisNOW WITH EXCLUSIVE BONUS MATERIALFrom author and scholar Michael Livingston, Origins of The Wheel of Time is an authorised exploration of the inspirations behind the acclaimed series, including the first biography of its creator, Robert Jordan. With an introduction by Jordan's editor and widow, Harriet McDougal. Explore never-before-seen insights into The Wheel of Time, including:- A brand-new, redrawn world map by Ellisa Mitchell using change requests discovered in Robert Jordan’s unpublished notes- An alternate scene from an early draft of The Eye of the World- An exclusive interview with the authorThis companion to the internationally bestselling series will delve into the creation of Robert Jordan’s masterpiece, drawing from interviews and an unprecedented examination of his unpublished notes. Michael Livingston tells the behind-the-scenes story of who Jordan was (i

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Book SynopsisLeo Carew''s much-lauded UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY trilogy draws to its spellbinding conclusion...Albion continues to be divided by revolt and bloodshed, as alliances collapse and are made anew.Driven obsessively for glory, the upstart Bellamus and his exiled queen Aramilla are marshalling resistance and building a powerful army.Returning to the Hindrunn, Keturah is forced to fend for herself, battling enemies on all sides just when she is most in need of a place of safety.And all the while, the young Black Lord must deal not only with the aftermath of a great betrayal, but the cold shadow of the Kryptea, threatening to destroy everything he has fought for...WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE BREATHTAKING WORK OF LEO CAREW:''The next George RR Martin'' - Mail on Sunday''Imagine Game of Thrones rewritten by John le Carré ... A marvellously accomplished debut'' - Guardian''Full of dark con

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Book SynopsisA new supplement for Frostgrave with expanded rules for vampires and giants, a new soldier type in the huge giant-blooded and guidelines and scenarios for playing Frostgrave with high-level wizards.In the days of ancient Felstad, vampires kept to the shadows, their small numbers no match for the power of the city''s wizards. But when the cataclysm struck the wizards were destroyed, while the deathless vampires went into a frozen hibernation. Now, as the city thaws, so to do its undead inhabitants. The masters of the night are rising again: reoccupying their hidden strongholds, reforming their old cabals and finding new victims to serve as their thralls. The destruction of the old city has brought one other boon to the vampires--giant''s blood. While giants used to live out of reach to the far north, in the intervening millennium, they have descended on the city in large numbers. Their blood is like an elixir to the vampires, filling them with strength anTrade ReviewIt is packed with fun ideas and interesting options for players -- Brennon * OnTabletop *

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Book SynopsisMore than a century has passed since Liliath crept into the empty sarcophagus of Saint Marguerite, fleeing the Fall of Ystara. But she emerges from her magical sleep still beautiful, looking no more than nineteen, and once again renews her single-minded quest to be united with her lover, Palleniel, the archangel of Ystara. A seemingly impossible quest, but Liliath is one of the greatest practitioners of angelic magic to have ever lived, a genius at making icons to summon angels, and supremely adept in forcing them to do her bidding.Liliath already knew that most of the inhabitants of Ystara died from the Ash Blood plague or were transformed into beastlings, and she herself led the survivors who fled into neighbouring Sarance. Now she learns that angels shun the Ystaran''s descendents. If they are touched by angelic magic, their blood will become ashes, or they will turn into beastlings. They are known as Refusers, and can only live the most lowly lives.But LiliatTrade ReviewGarth Nix sets the standard for Fantasy * Leigh Bardugo *A swashbuckling adventure . . . and the most original magic I've seen in years * Joe Abercrombie *Garth Nix is one of the best world-builders in fantasy. * BRANDON SANDERSON *Angels are called, and swords are swished and there are jealousies and romances galore in this riotous romp. * DAILY MAIL *An exciting adventure full of intrigue and action while portraying women in power in a refreshingly casual way. * KIRKUS REVIEW *Vivid characters, who jump off the pages. Each of the young people has his or her own interesting back stories, and their growing relationships, as they try to figure out just how they are connected, steals the show. But there are plenty of embellishments that enhance the more personal aspects of the story: scary beastlings, brutal battles, and the harnessed power of angelic magic . . . and kudos to fantasy stalwart Nix for a story with gender and racial equality, a fact that is shown but not discussed, because it shouldn't have to be. * Booklist *A unique magical system based on angel summoning and icons, deft characterization and an affectionate rendering of Dumas's style will delight fans of swashbuckling romance * Publishers Weekly *Angel Mage is wholly entertaining and likely to stay with readers for quite a while after they've finished. And it is simply wonderful to see so many bad-ass intelligent, talented, magical women prop up the world and threaten to take it down. * SHELF AWARENESS *

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Book SynopsisThis is the sixth and final volume in the acclaimed Song of the Shattered Sands series, in which an orphan girl grows up to avenge her murdered rebel mother and overthrow the ancient, corrupt and magical regime: the twelve kings of Sharakai.Trade ReviewTwelve Kings in Sharakhai is the gateway to what promises to be an intricate and exotic tale. The characters are well defined and have lives and histories that extend past the boundaries of the plot. The culture is well fleshed out and traditional gender roles are exploded. Çeda and Emre share a relationship seldom explored in fantasy, one that will be tried to the utmost as similar ideals provoke them to explore different paths. I expect that this universe will continue to expand in Beaulieu's skillful prose. Wise readers will hop on this train now, as the journey promises to be breathtaking -- Robin Hobb * author of The Assassin’s Apprentice *The protagonist, pit-fighter Çeda, is driven but not cold, and strong but not shallow. And the initial few scenes of violence and sex, while very engaging, soon give way to a much richer plot. Beaulieu is excellent at keeping a tight rein on the moment-to-moment action and building up the tension and layers of mysteries - (9/10 Rating) * SciFiNow *I am impressed... An exceedingly inventive story in a lushly realized dark setting that is not your uncle's Medieval Europe. I'll be looking forward to the next installment -- Glen Cook * author of The Black Company *Bradley P. Beaulieu's new fantasy epic is filled with memorable characters, enticing mysteries, and a world so rich in sensory detail that you can feel the desert breeze in your hair as you read. Çeda is hands-down one of the best heroines in the genre-strong, resourceful, and fiercely loyal to friends and family. Fantasy doesn't get better than this! -- C. S. Friedman * author of The Coldfire Trilogy *Exotic, sumptuous and incredibly entertaining, Beaulieu has created memorable characters in a richly imagined world -- Michael J. Sullivan * author of The Riyria Chronicles *Beaulieu's fantasy worlds are well-imagined and richly drawn...the kind you want to keep visiting * Kirkus Speculative Reading List for September 2015 *Twelve Kings is the best new Epic Fantasy I've read in years -- Mark Yon * SFFWorld *A memorable heroine, a poetically told tale of revenge, and superb world-building make Twelve Kings in Sharakhai a splendid read -- John Marco * author of The Jackal of Nar and The Eyes of God *Bradley Beaulieu has crafted a rich, fascinating world, filled it with compelling characters, and blended them into an epic tale that grabbed my attention on the first page and refused to let go. I look forward to more stories of Sharakhai -- David B. Coe/D.B. Jackson * author of Rules of Ascension and Thieftaker *It's hard to take a desert novel and not draw comparisons to Dune, but Beaulieu manages to create a rich, totally individual world, teeming with wonders and wondrous characters. Çeda and Emre and their relationship rings true and draws the reader on through magic, vengeance, and above all, excitement. A hellacious start to what looks like the next towering epic fantasy -- John Hornor Jacobs * author of The Incorruptibles *Crammed with intrigue, suspense, and stunning action sequences. Engaging characters and masterful world-building -- Howard Andrew Jones * author of The Desert of Souls *Pit fighting smugglers high on steroid-like flower petals alongside immortal plutocrats, who will do anything to keep on living, make this blood and sand fueled epic fantasy something to behold. Trust me. It'll bowl-yer ass off -- Justin Landon * Staffer’s Book Review and Tor.com *Brad Beaulieu's Twelve Kings in Sharakai isn't the same as the last epic fantasy you read. Like the desert sands of Sharakhai, this first volume of Beaulieu's new series is a constantly shifting narrative of betrayal and friendship, loyalty and vengeance. Leave the farm boys to their chickens and the scullions to their pots, because Çeda's bringing a knife to this fight. It's vivid and diverse, full of complex relationships, eye-opening magic, and world building for this new age of fantasy that's broken out of its medieval shackles -- Aidan Moher * A Dribble of Ink *A lavish epic featuring gods, gangs, gladiators and everything in-between. With its deliciously original magic system, vast new world, reckless heroine and sinister array of ageless villains, this is a must for fans of Brandon Sanderson -- Jared Shurin * Pornokitsch *

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Book SynopsisGods, demons and dragons collide in one final epic battle in The Discord of Gods, the unmissable conclusion to A Chorus of Dragons by Jenn Lyons.One curse. One man. One destiny.Relos Var's plans to enslave the universe near completion. All that stands in his way is the demon Xaltorath – or so he believes. For Kihrin could still alter the course of this war, despite being caught between these two masterminds. Yet he’s playing the most dangerous of games, as he appears to assume his prophesied role: as a destroyer, the sun eater, a mindless, remorseless plague upon the land. All this, while still protecting his allies and those he loves.But even as Kihrin seeks an eleventh-hour reprieve for the universe, his body threatens to betray him. He's grappling with the aftereffects of a corrupted magical ritual, one that twisted both him and the last dragons. Worse, he’s now bound to the avatar of a star – a form that’s becoming catastrophically unstable. All of which means he's running out of time.After all, some stars fade . . . but others explode. The Discord of Gods is the fifth and final book in Jenn Lyons’ epic fantasy series A Chorus of Dragons, which starts with The Ruin of Kings.Praise for A Chorus of Gods:‘Everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply, deeply satisfying. I loved it’ – Lev Grossman, author of The Magicians ‘A fantastic page-turner’ – John Gwynne, author of A Time of Dread‘This is top-notch adventure fantasy’ – Kirkus Reviews, starred reviewTrade ReviewWhat an extraordinary book. The Ruin of Kings is everything epic fantasy should be: rich, cruel, gorgeous, brilliant, enthralling and deeply deeply satisfying. I loved it -- Lev Grossman on The Ruin of KingsA fantastic page-turner with a heady blend of great characters, fast-moving action and a fabulously inventive magic system . . . I loved it -- John Gwynne on The Ruin of KingsIt’s impossible not to be impressed with the ambition of it all, the sheer, effervescent joy Lyons takes in the scope of her project. Sometimes you just want a larger-than-life adventure story about thieves, wizards, assassins and kings -- New York Times on The Ruin of KingsLyons proves she is worthy of comparison to other masters of epic fantasy, such as Patrick Rothfuss, Stephen R. Donaldson and Melanie Rawn -- Booklist on The Name of All Things, starred reviewSimply put: this is top-notch adventure fantasy written for a twenty-first-century audience – highly recommended -- Kirkus on The Name of All Things, starred reviewLyons is creating a complex and wonderful series that will immerse and delight -- Library Journal on The Name of All Things

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Book SynopsisFury of a Demon is the thrilling conclusion to the Dragons of Terra trilogy by Brian Naslund.‘Part Game of Thrones, part superhero epic . . . a cinematic fantasy whirlwind’ – Sebastien de Castell on Blood of an ExileThe land is in chaos as a hero heads for war.Commanding a devastating army of skyships, Osyrus Ward has conquered most of Terra. And to finish the task, he’s building a machine of unparalleled power. With it, he’d be unstoppable – and dragons would be wiped from the face of the earth.Bershad and Ashlyn are leading a desperate rebellion, but they’ve been trapped within the Dainwood by Ward’s relentless mercenaries. The rebels pray Ashlyn’s dark magic will give them an edge, but her powers are well-known to their enemies as they draw ever nearer. Out of options, Ashlyn must embark on a dangerous mission to save her fledgling army – or be crushed by Ward’s soldiers.Bershad was once invincible in battle, but this very power may prove his undoing. Now, with every new wound, his humanity is slipping further away. Bershad seems to be Terra’s last and best hope against terrifying forces. But to save the world, will he become the nightmare?‘Exciting, epic and wonderfully told, full of subtle humour and laugh-out-loud lines’ – Angus Watson on Blood of an ExileFury of a Demon follows Blood of an Exile and Sorcery of a Queen.Trade ReviewI had a great time with Blood of an Exile – it’s a fast, fun fantasy full of dragons and traitors, humour and bloody action. Fans of Joe Abercrombie’s First Law or Michael Sullivan’s Riyria Revelations will love Brian Naslund’s debut -- Django Wexler on Blood of an ExilePart Game of Thrones, part superhero epic, Blood of an Exile is a cinematic fantasy whirlwind -- Sebastien de Castell on Blood of an ExileA page-turning, action-packed tale full of memorable characters, set within a world full of dragons . . . It doesn't get much cooler than this -- John Gwynne on Blood of an ExileExciting, epic and wonderfully told, full of subtle humour and laugh-out-loud lines -- Angus Watson on Blood of an ExileBlood of an Exile is a thrilling, action-packed rollercoaster ride of a dark fantasy debut and I devoured the four-hundred-plus pages in three days . . . a darkly tinged mixture of John Gwynne’s Of Blood and Bone and Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher Saga -- Grimdark Magazine on Blood of an ExileNaslund succeeds in creating a page-turning, edge-of-your-seat read that breathes new (fiery) life into dragon mythology. Top-notch adventure fantasy – a stand-up-and-applaud debut -- Kirkus Reviews on Blood of an Exile

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Book SynopsisBrilliant, bold and thrilling, The Thousand Eyes by A. K. Larkwood is the epic fantasy sequel to The Unspoken Name.Could you sacrifice your dreams to escape a nightmare?Csorwe, Shuthmili and Tal survey abandoned Echentyr worlds to make a living. The empire’s ruins seem harmless but fascinating. Yet disaster strikes when they stumble upon ancient magic during a routine expedition. This revives a warrior who’d slept for an age, reigniting a conflict thousands of years old. And the soldier binds Csorwe to her cause.Shuthmili is desperate to protect the woman she loves. However, as events escalate, she’s torn. Can she help Csorwe by clinging to her own humanity or by embracing her eldritch powers?Tal heads home, but his peace is shattered when a magical catastrophe hits his city. The wizard Sethennai is missing and Tal can’t face seeking his former lover to ask for help. So, he flees – but there’s no escaping the future. For throughout the Echo Maze’s linked worlds, fragments of an undead goddess are waking. Soon all must choose a side.Praise for The Unspoken Name:‘An outstanding debut . . . unlike anything I’ve read before’ – Nicholas Eames‘Richly detailed, enthralling and extraordinary’ – Jenn Lyons‘Stylish, classy and timeless . . . I cannot recommend it enough’ – Tamsyn Muir‘An adventure I couldn’t put down’ – S. A. ChakrabortyTrade ReviewA fun, fresh new take on the traditional fantasy quest and an adventure I couldn't put down! -- S. A. Chakraborty on The Unspoken NameAn astounding debut, written with skill and stunning assurance . . . From its flawless first page to its bittersweet last, The Unspoken Name is unlike anything I’ve read before -- Nicholas Eames on The Unspoken NameThe Unspoken Name is the best kind of modern fantasy – it feels totally fresh, it's full of satisfyingly weird gods and frightening magic; plus it's stuffed with the sort of characters you'll either want to be friends with or run screaming from. I loved this book! -- Jen Williams on The Unspoken NameWhat a glorious book! Richly detailed, enthralling, and extraordinary, with brilliant nods to such luminaries as Ursula K. Le Guin and Diana Wynne Jones . . . Fabulous, in every meaning of the word -- Jenn Lyons on The Unspoken NameA.K. Larkwood’s The Unspoken Name is an epic fantasy in the vein of Le Guin’s magnificent Tombs of Atuan – if Arha the Eaten One got to grow up to be a swordswoman mercenary . . . The action is fast-paced and emotionally compelling; the magic is dangerous, beautiful and utterly compromising. I love this book so much -- Arkady Martine on The Unspoken Name

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Book SynopsisA fallen regime. A missing child. A chance at freedom. Ten years ago, Sonya was the face of an oppressive regime. Then it was toppled by rebels and she was thrown into prison - where she has been locked up ever since. When an old enemy comes to her with a deal, it seems too good to be true: find a missing girl who was stolen from her parents, and earn her freedom. But as Sonya hunts for the child, she is forced to dig deeper into the past - and her family's dark secrets - than she ever bargained for . . .Praise for Veronica Roth 'Poster Girl cements Veronica Roth's status as a superstar' Gregg Hurwitz, #1 International bestselling author of the Orphan X series'Veronica Roth's latest outing will draw you into its broken world, and make you think more deeply of our own' Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Girl, Forgotten'Roth weaves a tale of redemption and regret that kept me riveted and guessing until the last page' Hugh Howey, New York Times bestselling author of Wool and Across the Sand'Veronica Roth is the cure for all those humdrum 'one true saviour' narratives' Charlie Jane Anders, Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author of THE CITY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT, on CHOSEN ONES'Roth has pulled off a virtuoso performance' Blake Crouch, bestselling author of DARK MATTER and RECURSION on CHOSEN ONES'Roth somehow manages to make universe-building look easy' Charles Yu, bestselling author of INTERIOR CHINATOWN on CHOSEN ONESTrade ReviewHighly recommended for readers of dystopian fiction, lovers of Philip K. Dick's thought-police science fiction, and anyone who wants to see how far "If you see something, say something" can be led astray * Library Journal, starred review *Poster Girl is a captivating story full of twists and turns-and no easy answers. Veronica Roth's latest outing will draw you into its broken world, and make you think more deeply of our own. I couldn't put it down * Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Girl, Forgotten *Roth weaves a tale of redemption and regret that kept me riveted and guessing until the last page * Hugh Howey, New York Times bestselling author of Wool and Across the Sand *Veronica Roth's Poster Girl is a carbonated noir, a thrilling dystopian page turner, and a novel that pushes at the ideas of justice and compliance. Poster Girl is a rare book that is deeply entertaining while making readers consider deep moral issues * Megan Giddings, author of Lakewood and The Women Could Fly *Someone is always watching, private secrets breed public power, and polite behavior and careful thoughts will not be enough to save everyone from their complicity. This is a smart, propulsive thriller set in a cleverly constructed world, full of tough questions I won't soon forget * Matt Bell, author of Appleseed *This is a story of deep complexity, full of love and loss and hard-won hope * Marissa Levien, author of The World Gives Way *An intelligent, raw, emotional dystopian thriller that asks deep questions about human nature, society, and freedom. With searing prose, deft world building, and a layered, propulsive plot that will keep you turning the pages, the supremely talented Veronica Roth is at the top of her game in Poster Girl. Don't miss this! * Lisa Unger, New York Times bestselling author of Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six *Poster Girl cements Veronica Roth's status as a superstar. It's not just her prose, lyrical and precise. Not just her characters, complex and enchanting. It's that she manages to keep her feet planted in the thunderous present while setting her narrative gaze on a looming Orwellian future. Not a word of this fine novel is dogmatic or reductive as Sonja Kantor, onetime true believer, peels back the pristine façade of her life's ideology to reveal the churning human chaos beneath. Her story is timeless in all the best ways, as contoured and mysterious as the poster girl herself * Gregg Hurwitz, #1 International bestselling author of the Orphan X series *Roth isn't interested in easy victories or happily-ever-afters. Instead, Sonya grapples with the inevitable failure of even the most optimistic governments, the risk that exciting and helpful new technologies can be used for evil, and the responsibility she still bears for who she was and what she did during the Delegation's heyday. The novel manages to be an elegant social commentary without resorting to preachiness, and even the most cynical readers will be as surprised as Sonya when they reach Roth's big reveals about the depths of the Delegation's depravity. A wonderfully complex and nuanced book * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *It's an unflinching look at the dangers of spyware and propaganda through a dystopian lens. * Stylist *Remember the Divergent series? My teenage self definitely does. If you do too, then get excited, because the author is back with a brand new (and much more grown up) speculative fiction mystery about a dystopian world under constant surveillance. * Cosmopolitan *Exciting and thought provoking * Peterborough Telegraph *A classy, pleasingly self-contained mystery that scores all the right points * SFX Magazine *Poster Girl does not just feature the unravelling of old ideas but the building of new ones. Every detail of this story proves that there are still new approaches to be found in dystopian science fiction. While fans of this genre and Roth's previous work will be delighted by this, there is thematic depth here for those who may never have read anything like it before * The National *

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Book Synopsis'A doorway to a world of magic, vengeance and romance that will keep you guessing until the last pages' Cassandra Clare, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Shadowhunter Chronicles Intrigue, romance, and magic abound in The Hollow Heart, the heart-stopping conclusion to Marie Rutkoski's Forgotten Gods duology.Nirrim's heart is lost, traded to the god of thieves in order to restore her people's memories of their city's history. Meanwhile, Sid, the person she once loved most, has returned to Herran to take up her duty to the crown.But frightening rumours are growing in the Herrani court: of a new threat rising across the sea, of magic unleashed upon the world, and of a cruel, black-haired queen who can push false memories into your mind, so that you believe your dearest friends to be your enemies.Sid doesn't know that this queen is Nirrim, seeking revenge against a world that has wronged her. Can Sid save Nirrim from herself? And does Nirrim even want to be saved?As blood is shed and war begins, Sid and Nirrim find that it might not matter what they want . . . for the gods have their own plans.*** Praise for Marie Rutkoski ***'Lush, romantic, and powerful. In The Midnight Lie, Marie Rutkoski spins a sensuous tale about awakening to the truth' Malinda Lo, author of Ash'Utterly immersive and gorgeous' Roshani Chokshi, New York Times-bestselling author of The Gilded WolvesTrade Review*** Praise for Marie Rutkoski ***A thrilling, frightening tale of intrigue and revenge, love and desire, affecting humans and gods alike. The Hollow Heart is a doorway to a world of magic, vengeance, and romance that will keep you guessing until the last pages * Cassandra Clare, New York Times bestselling author of the Shadowhunter Chronicles *Darkly enchanting . . . The Midnight Lie is unsettling and thrilling, the world intricate and purposeful * Shelf Awareness *Utterly immersive and gorgeous. Marie's stories are the loveliest knives that cut you straight to the quick * Roshani Chokshi, New York Times-bestselling author of The Gilded Wolves *Lush, swoony, painful [and] enraging * Kirkus Reviews *Lush, romantic, and powerful. In THE MIDNIGHT LIE, Marie Rutkoski spins a sensuous tale about awakening to the truth * Malinda Lo, author of Ash *Rutkoski compassionately navigates the queer reality of living in a world that wishes you were different, while also discussing the legacy of colonialism * School Library Journal *

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Book Synopsis'A doorway to a world of magic, vengeance and romance that will keep you guessing until the last pages' Cassandra Clare, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Shadowhunter Chronicles Intrigue, romance, and magic abound in The Hollow Heart, the heart-stopping conclusion to Marie Rutkoski's Forgotten Gods duology.Nirrim's heart is lost, traded to the god of thieves in order to restore her people's memories of their city's history. Meanwhile, Sid, the person she once loved most, has returned to Herran to take up her duty to the crown.But frightening rumours are growing in the Herrani court: of a new threat rising across the sea, of magic unleashed upon the world, and of a cruel, black-haired queen who can push false memories into your mind, so that you believe your dearest friends to be your enemies.Sid doesn't know that this queen is Nirrim, seeking revenge against a world that has wronged her. Can Sid save Nirrim from herself? And does Nirrim even want to be saved?As blood is shed and war begins, Sid and Nirrim find that it might not matter what they want . . . for the gods have their own plans.*** Praise for Marie Rutkoski ***'Lush, romantic, and powerful. In The Midnight Lie, Marie Rutkoski spins a sensuous tale about awakening to the truth' Malinda Lo, author of Ash'Utterly immersive and gorgeous' Roshani Chokshi, New York Times-bestselling author of The Gilded WolvesTrade Review*** Praise for Marie Rutkoski ***A thrilling, frightening tale of intrigue and revenge, love and desire, affecting humans and gods alike. The Hollow Heart is a doorway to a world of magic, vengeance, and romance that will keep you guessing until the last pages * Cassandra Clare, New York Times bestselling author of the Shadowhunter Chronicles *Darkly enchanting . . . The Midnight Lie is unsettling and thrilling, the world intricate and purposeful * Shelf Awareness *Utterly immersive and gorgeous. Marie's stories are the loveliest knives that cut you straight to the quick * Roshani Chokshi, New York Times-bestselling author of The Gilded Wolves *Lush, swoony, painful [and] enraging * Kirkus Reviews *Lush, romantic, and powerful. In THE MIDNIGHT LIE, Marie Rutkoski spins a sensuous tale about awakening to the truth * Malinda Lo, author of Ash *Rutkoski compassionately navigates the queer reality of living in a world that wishes you were different, while also discussing the legacy of colonialism * School Library Journal *

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Her destiny. His revenge.In an empire on the brink of war . . .Ahn is no one, with no past and no family.Altan is a lost heir, his future stolen away as a child.When they meet, Altan sees in Ahn a path to reclaiming the throne. Ahn sees a way to finally unlock her past and understand her lethal magical abilities.But they may have to pay a far deadlier price than either could have imagined.Girls of Paper and Fire meets A Song of Wraiths and Ruin in June CL Tan's stunning debut, where ferocious action, shadowy intrigue, rich magic, and a captivating slow-burn romance collide.'Impossible to put down' Swati Teerdhala, author of The Tiger at Midnight series'Adventure at its finest' Joan He, author of Descendant of the Crane'An epic adventure!' Elizabeth Lim, New York Times bestselling author of Spin the Dawn'Epic in every sense of the word, beautiful as it is sweeping' Roseanne A. Brown, New York Times bestselling author of A Song of Wraiths and Ruin

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Book SynopsisImmerse yourself in the second book the Castles in their Bones series from the New York Times bestselling author of the Ash Princess series.'A page-turner that brilliantly blends magic, romance, and adventure' BooklistSeduction. Conquest. The Crown.Princesses Daphne, Beatriz, and Sophronia have trained their entire lives for one purpose: to bring down nations. Their mother, Empress Margaraux of Bessemia, is determined to rule the continent of Vesteria, and her daughters are her weapons. Promised for marriage since birth, they are her ticket across enemy lines. And also her decoys.Still, not even Empress Margaraux can control the stars. Sent to their new kingdoms, orders in hand, the princesses have found their own paths, changing the course of their mother's plans entirely - and tragically. Sophronia chose love, and for that, she lost her life. Daphne and Beatriz can hardly believe their sister is dead, but both are determined to avenge her. And now, separated by a continent - and their mother's lies - they see more clearly with every passing day that they might not be working toward the same end.The stars whisper of death, but Daphne and Beatriz are just beginning to understand the true power coursing through their veins. And their mother will do anything to keep them under her thumb - even if it means killing them all.PRAISE FOR LAURA SEBASTIAN'Sebastian weaves the story together with a firm handle on pacing and worldbuilding, placing twists and turns throughout as characters leave their assigned countries' School Library Journal, on Stardust in their Veins'...the worldbuilding is rich, clearly defined, and easy to follow' Kirkus Reviews, on Stardust in their Veins'Made for fans of Victoria Aveyard and Sabaa Tahir' Bustle, on Ash PrincessTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR LAURA SEBASTIANIn Sebastian's fairy tale world of royalty, power, and magic, the duplicitous but no less championable princesses engage in enough surprise twists, romantic entanglements, and dicey predicaments to keep readers entertained * Publishers Weekly *[A] page-turner that brilliantly blends magic, romance, and adventure * Booklist *Enchanting . . . filled with captivating court intrigue and espionage * Kirkus Reviews *Sebastian excels at world building * The Bulletin *A fast-paced page-turner that I firmly recommend. Exciting, full of twists and turns that keep the reader engaged in this fantasy world * ReadingZone *

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Book SynopsisWhen his beloved only daughter goes missing, millionaire entrepreneur Walter van Dam calls in a team of experts - including free-climbers, a geologist, a parapsychologist, even a medium - to find her . . . for Anna-Lena has disappeared somewhere within a mysterious cave system under the old house the family abandoned years ago. But the rescuers are not the only people on her trail - and there are dangers in the underground labyrinth that no one could ever have foreseen.In a gigantic cavern the team come across a number of strange doors, three of them marked with enigmatic symbols. Anna-Lena must be behind one of them - but time is running out and they need to choose, quickly. Anna-Lena is no longer the only person at risk.They little expect door ? to take them back to the 1940s - but this is not the 1940s they know. In this timeline, Nazi Germany capitulated early, the US has taken control of Europe and is threatening the Russian-led Resistance with a nuclear strike. If the team is to rescue Anna-Lena - and survive themselves - they will have to stop this madness - at all costs!DOORS: THREE DOORS, THREE DIFFERENT ADVENTURES. WHICH DOOR WILL YOU CHOOSE?Trade ReviewThree exciting excursions into foreign worlds that can only be described as completely successful! * GEEK *You always know what to expect from Markus Heitz. Over the years he has been one of the staples of fantasy literature . . . he can be enjoyed by both casual readers as well as by hard-core readers * Upcoming4Me *Talented story-telling ability * Boomtron *Just as talented musicians can create a myriad symphonies with only 12 musical notes,?Heitz?demonstrates how talented writers are able to create greatly enjoyable stories based only a few basic, well known concepts * Speculative Book Review *A great example of action-oriented and unfussy quest literature. Highly recommended.' * SF Crowsnest on The Dwarves *There are a lot of interesting ideas throughout the DOORS experiment. They are action thrillers . . . [they] reminded me of the type of crazed abandonment that someone like Mathew Riley brings to the novels. You should enjoy the ride . . .with its gung-ho action and ephemeral characters, Colony is a book aimed more at the action science-fiction fans who just want a quick and enjoyable read * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS ? Colony *Heitz likes to play with alternative realities . . . [he] can throw his characters into an old-school slobberknocker of a fight. The X-Files-like mystery is explored in all three novels, from slightly different perspectives * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS ! Field of Blood *Twilight explores the idea of what happens if you leap from dimension to dimension. Imagine the finalé to Monsters Inc but in this case the monsters want to eat your face off rather than just scare you. The movement from one place to another allows for a series of entertaining little novelettes. Heitz can create an interesting and believable future and also manages to create some stalking horror elsewhere within the same story. The books can be read in any order as they are all different in style If you have the previous books fresh in your mind you will see so many more of the tendrils link one to another * SFBOOK REVIEWS on DOORS X Twilight *Markus Heitz has treated us to an inventive idea and three thrilling novels that entertain throughout * GEEK DAD on the DOORS sequence *

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Book SynopsisGangster, soldier, priest. Queen's Man. Governor.'If you haven't yet picked up this riveting and unique series, I highly recommend you do' Fantasy Book Critic Tomas Piety has everything he ever wanted. In public he's a wealthy, highly respected businessman, happily married to a beautiful woman and governor of his home city of Ellinburg. In private, he's no longer a gang lord, head of the Pious Men, but one of the Queen's Men, invisible and officially non-existent, working in secret to protect his country.The queen's sudden death sees him summoned him back to the capital - where he discovers his boss, Dieter Vogel, Provost Marshal of the Queen's Men, is busy tightening his stranglehold on the country.Just as he once fought for his Pious Men, Tomas must now bend all his wit and hard-won wisdom to protect his queen - even when he can't always tell if he's on the right side.Tomas has started to ask himself, what is the price of power? And more importantly, is it one he is willing to pay? 'If you like your fantasy with a side of dark and gritty, you won't want to miss this' CHRISTINA HENRY, bestselling author of The Girl in Red on Priest of LiesTrade ReviewStunning. Best book of the year by a spear length and then some * ANNA SMITH SPARK, author of Empires of Dust, on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *Mclean writes fantasy that feels slick, modern, and pulls few punches. Pacey writing lends subtle weight to the gritty themes explored as The War for the Rose Throne gathers ever more speed * ED MCDONALD, bestselling author of the RAVEN'S MARK series on on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *A brilliant story . . . that's full of invention, surprise and MacLean's knack for complex, morally grey characters * TRACK OF WORDS on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *If you like your fantasy with a side of dark and gritty, you won't want to miss this * CHRISTINA HENRY, bestselling author of The Girl in Red on PRIEST OF LIES *Utterly unputdownable * TRACK OF WORDS on PRIEST OF GALLOWS in 'Best SFF of 2021' *A brilliant world * GRIMDARK MAGAZINE on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *This series rocks! * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *The first two books in this series were a great deal of fun so I had high hopes for book three. I'm glad to report that I was not at all disappointed. I'm beyond pleased to note that we are not quite done with the adventures of Tomas Piety and the rest of the Pious Men yet. Highly recommended * THE ELOQUENT PAGE on PRIEST OF GALLOWS *An enigma. It manages to be light and dark, clean but dirty, harsh but fair, full of love and equally full of death. It's an awesome story, one that grabs you from the first line and doesn't let go until the finale when it slams you to the ground * FANTASY HIVE on PRIEST OF LIES *The politics of The Godfather meets the grit of Gangs of New York . . . a dark, dirty, foul-mouthed triumph of grimdark gangster heist novels. If Locke Lamora (Scott Lynch) had a bigger, uglier, more violent brother, his name would be Tomas Piety. Amid the violence and the stink of the Ellinburg, though, there's camaraderie and trust, concern for the wellbeing of the poor and a rusty sort of honour among thieves * ANNA STEPHENS, bestselling author of the Godblind trilogy, on PRIEST OF BONES *Priest of Lies is pretty damn exceptional . . . the ending is stunning . . . an author who is on top of his game * GRIMDARK MAGAZINE on PRIEST OF LIES *A hell of a good time, and serves up a damn fine cliffhanger * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *Clever storytelling and beautifully immersive prose. Priest of Lies digs deeper and hits harder, getting darker by the chapter, with astonishing surprises around each and every corner. I'm really looking forward to seeing what blood-soaked mischief Tomas gets into next. If you haven't yet picked up this riveting and unique series, I highly recommend you do * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC on PRIEST OF LIES *Managing to be exciting, narratively taut and a commentary on the terrible things war and violence do to people is no mean feat, but Peter McLean manages it with Priest of Bones. I wish I had written this * R.J. BARKER, bestselling author of Blood of Assassins, on PRIEST OF BONES *Let me just tell you that Peter McLean knows how to fucking write! * PARSECS AND PARCHMENT *This is the best entry into the series yet and I couldn't put it down * FANFIADDICT *I can't remember the last time I read such a consistently good series as The War for the Rose Throne. Characterization in these books is phenomenal * GEEK DAD *A powerful and moving urban fantasy that I found myself completely immersed in * MUSE’S BOOK JOURNAL *

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Book SynopsisI love you...Nox's tear-filled words echo across the sand as she and Amaris are torn apart. They've battled fiercely to find each other again, and have barely reunited when Amaris is taken away by the queen's dragon.Injured and desperate, Amaris is forced to navigate her new surroundings with the help of Raascot's enigmatic general if she hopes to stay alive. At the same time, across the land and running out of options, Nox forms a partnership with the continent's league of peacekeeping assassins, begging their help to find Amaris and forge some stability between the kingdoms.As wounds heal and new relationships blossom, Nox and Amaris must confront impossible obstacles and stretch their magic to its limits if they are ever to create a world that might finally reunite them for good. The odds are narrow, the stakes are high, and one question remains: Is it fate, love, or something else entirely that binds these two women together?In the enthralling follow-up to The Night and Its Moon, bestselling author Piper CJ redefines love and trust through an authentic fantastical portrayal of queer experiences, found family, and the gray areas that define us all.

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Book Synopsis'A remarkable series' SFFANZShe's the Empress of the Fall . . . and her empire is falling apart.'Represents modern epic fantasy at its best' Fantasy Book CriticLyra, Queen of Rondelmar, has fought enemies without and within, dealt with grief and loss, embraced forbidden magic, found her father and borne a child - and still it isn't enough. Her enemies are on the march and the Rondian Empire is collapsing.But a more dangerous adversary is out there . . . and he is winning.Ervyn Naxius, amoral genius, has unleashed war on two continents and now laughing as the world of Urte tears itself apart. Kings and priests dance to his tune and his daemonic followers are spreading through the lands, but still he isn't satisfied. His ultimate goal - absolute control of all life - is finally within his reach . . .Are these the Last Days, when the daemons rise up to claim the world?From snowbound Mollachia to the beleaguered walls of Norostein, from the poisonous court of the new sultan to the deadly intrigues of Pallas, the omens are clear. Only Lyra and a handful of other heretical dwymancers have grasped the true danger - and they won't give up until every last hope is buried . . .Trade ReviewA remarkable series * SFFANZ *Promises to recall epic fantasy's finest * Tor.com on the Moontide Quartet *Represents modern epic fantasy at its best * Fantasy Book Critic on the Moontide Quartet *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book . . . epic * A Bohemian Mind at Work *Empress of the Fall is a sprawling epic fantasy of grandiose proportions . . . with a hearty taste of blood and gore, and plenty of vicious politics * Angela Oliver, author of Fellowship of the Ringtails *I continue to be impressed by the way Hair takes some very familiar, almost trite, ideas and spins them in a new way. Epic fantasy is not dying, my friends, it is just moving in new directions * Fantasy Review Barn *One of the best examples, in recent memory, of epic fantasy * Novelnaut on Hearts of Ice *True epic fantasy. It has everything a fan could want - detailed magic, good characters and evil characters (of both genders) and some in between, a compelling plot, and twists aplenty * A Bitter Draft *This is a series I cannot recommend enough * C.E. Tracy, author of Chronicles of the Fallen *Increasingly addictive . . . Adult fantasy lovers who enjoy historical fiction and intricate political plots will love this book. Just don't let yourself be overwhelmed by the first few pages. The rest is epic * A Bohemian Mind at Work *Beautifully written, a fantastically epic tale spanning two continents, with flashes of the Crusades combined with wonderfully inventive magic. It's grounded in believable characters that I loved and hated, and full of action and heartbreak. And knights flying into battle on winged horses - how cool is that! * JOHN GWYNNE, bestselling author of Malice *

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Book SynopsisThe concluding novel in the Dragon's Legacy trilogy as the world descends into war and the conflicts may awaken the Earth Dragon-leading to total destruction. Sulema Ja'Akari, heir to the throne of the Dragon King, lies near death, imprisoned by her half brother Pythos. To survive, she must agree to rescue the one person who holds the key to unseating the usurper-a quest that will take Sulema across the vast, apocalyptic desert of the Seared Lands. Overwhelmed by the responsibility, Sulema seeks to flee, but is captured and cast into the arena. There she must fight to the death against Kishah, whose very name means "vengeance." Kishah, who is Sulama's closest friend and fellow warrior, Hannei. Across the world, vast forces gather. Fleeing a swarm of invaders, the child queen Maika seeks to lead her people across the wasteland to safety. Jian the half-breed prince musters an army from the Twilight Lands, while Ismai the Lich King gathers an undead horde, determined to reclaim the Dragon crown. Yet the greatest threat lies below. Sajani the earth dragon stirs. If she wakes, the world will be destroyed. Only the heir to the Dragon King may sing Sajani back to sleep... if there still is time.Trade ReviewPraise for the DRAGON'S LEGACY Saga"You have to surrender to the domination of the author, and trust that she isn’t just freewheeling. Otherwise you lose that precious sense of depth, which J.R.R. Tolkien, J.K. Rowling and George R.R. Martin were all able to sustain over multiple books... Ms. Wolf [is] off to a good start.”—The Wall Street Journal"An intricate story... This book will leave readers with intense curiosity about its different cultures and anxiously awaiting a sequel."—Booklist"A well-crafted, intricate blend of the politics and magic of multiple cultures."—Publishers Weekly"A powerful, compelling read that combines elements of epic fantasy with strong storytelling. Reminiscent of the classic fantasy novel Dune, The Dragon’s Legacy is an addictive start to a promising, exciting trilogy....a welcome, desert-scented breath of fresh air, worth devouring, again and again."—Foreword Reviews “Wolf's debut is ambitious… There are intriguing world building and poignant moments to be found here... Wolf writes for a big screen…”—Kirkus Reviews"Wolf’s style of storytelling, more nomadic and episodic like the world and people she has created, may be initially challenging for some readers, but the tale’s mysteries, the world’s grandeur, and vivid, strong characters will reward those who persevere. Fantasy fans who crave stories that eschew traditional gender roles, as well as those who find Celtic-analog cultures wearisome, will be pleased with this intriguing new offering."—New York Journal of Books"True epic fantasy, the kind of rich, multi-layered works that don't just carry you away, but carry you away to a world that you'll want to live in for a long, long time!"—David Farland, New York Times bestselling author of The Runelords"Plunges you into a rich and vibrant world, filled with magic and intrigue. A fantastic combination of new, marvelous cultures and grand characters in a story that grips your imagination and pulls you into the windswept desert."—Sarah Beth Durst, award-winning author of The Queen of Blood."A mesmerizing tale of intrigue and magic that is as richly detailed as it is lethally entertaining."—Tina Lecount Myers, author of The Song of All "This will knock your socks off. Wolf is rewriting epic fantasy."—Sarah Chorn, Bookworm Blues "Beautiful and haunting. A world of large-scale eipic fantasy, in the tradition of Guy Gavriel Kay... This is a rare find and not to be missed."—Barb Hendee, New York Times bestselling author of The Noble Dead"Wolf's lush and painterly prose is reminiscent of Jacqueline Carey, impelling the reader to savor every sight and sound and smell. Highly recommended."—Katherine Kurtz, acclaimed author of the Deryni novels“Wolf’s debut fantasy is remarkably assured and deeply detailed, offering a unique universe and a trope-twisting narrative that plays out in unexpected ways.”—Barnes & Noble SFF blog

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Book SynopsisNever stake more than you can afford to lose. When failed magician turned cardsharp Valen Quinol is given the chance to play in the Forbearance Game—the invitation-only tournament where players gamble with secrets—he can’t resist. Or refuse, for that matter, according to the petty gangster sponsoring his seat at the table. Valen beats the man he was sent to play, and wins the most valuable secret ever staked in the history of the tournament. Now Valen and his motley crew are being hunted by thieves, gangsters, spies and wizards, all with their own reasons for wanting what’s in that envelope. It’s a game of nations where Valen doesn’t know all the rules or who all the players are, and can’t see all the moves. But he does know if the secret falls into the wrong hands, it could plunge the whole world into war…Trade Review‘Intrigue and magic aplenty’ -- Publishers Weekly * Publishers Weekly *‘A fast-paced action story steeped in magic, history, political intrigue, and suspense.’ -- Booklist * Booklist *‘A thrilling tale of intrigue’ -- Aurealis * Aurealis *‘As exciting and as fast-paced as a game of cards’ -- Seattle Book Review * Seattle Book Review *

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Book Synopsis'Best described as George R.R. Martin meets H.P. Lovecraft, The Glass Breaks is a fine example of British fantasy writing at its most entertaining' Guardian A MAN OF THE DAWN CLAW WILL BE THE ALWAYS KING. It will ever be so. They will always rule... but they will not always lead.Prince Oliver Dawn Claw, heir to the Kingdom of the Four Claws, is thrust into a world he doesn't understand as he waits for his father to die. Away from home, with few allies – and too many enemies – he faces a new and otherworldly threat from beneath the sea. Alliances break and masks fall, as the Dark Brethren reveal their true master. Meanwhile, Adeline Brand – called the Alpha Wolf – refuses to wait, and becomes the edge of the sword that swings back at the Dreaming God. Assembling allies and crushing resistance, she enters a fight she doesn't know if she can win, as the sea begins to rise. PRAISE FOR A.J. SMITH: 'An epic feat of world-building from one of British fantasy's most innovative voices' Bookseller 'British fantasy writing at its most entertaining' Guardian 'Interesting and enticing, deftly sidesteps fantasy cliché and thrusts you towards the next installment' SFXTrade ReviewA fabulous example of the Sword & Sorcery fantasy genre first launched back in the 1930s by the legendary author Robert E. Howard... A simply riveting read from cover to cover and a 'must' for all dedicated action/adventure fantasy fans. An impressively original and inherently entertaining story with all manner of memorable characters and unexpected plot twists' * MidWest Book Review *PRAISE FOR A.J. SMITH: 'Suffering from Game of Thrones withdrawals? A.J. Smith's twisted fantasy series has enough renegade clerics, murderous assassins, and unholy pacts and feuds to soothe even the most passionate fan's fever' Foreword Reviews. 'Sieges, catapults, battles, longswords, beheadings a-plenty, profanity and rather bloody mayhem. Brilliant' SFFWorld. 'High fantasy, military exploits, and touches of an almost Lovecraftian mythos' Publishers Weekly. 'Epic fantasy at its scary, fun, sarcastic, shock-laden best' The Bookbag. 'Fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie will find much to like in this bloody, grimdark fantasy' * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisThe epic conclusion to a new trilogy from one of the most exciting voices in British fantasy. The glass breaks, the sword falls, the sea rises. Lord Marius Cyclone faces an unimaginable danger. The mighty legions of Santago Cyclone – known as the Bloodied Harp – and King Oliver Dawn Claw will be upon the Dark Harbour in less than a day, and truce seems impossible, even as the end of the world of Form creeps ever nearer. But the tide waits for no man. Marius has only one choice if his people are to survive: flight, into the Void. Meanwhile, a primal power awakens. The Sunken God has lived through many ages; watched countless civilisations rise and fall. And he will not let his quarry flee without a fight. Praise for The Glass Breaks: 'Best described as George R.R. Martin meets H.P. Lovecraft, The Glass Breaks is a fine example of British fantasy writing at its most entertaining' GuardianTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR A.J. SMITH: 'Best described as George R.R. Martin meets H.P. Lovecraft, The Glass Breaks is a fine example of British fantasy writing at its most entertaining' Guardian. 'Sieges, catapults, battles, longswords, beheadings a-plenty, profanity and rather bloody mayhem. Brilliant' SFFWorld. 'High fantasy, military exploits, and touches of an almost Lovecraftian mythos' Publishers Weekly. 'Epic fantasy at its scary, fun, sarcastic, shock-laden best' The Bookbag. 'Fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie will find much to like in this bloody, grimdark fantasy' * Booklist *

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Book Synopsis"Fans of pseudo-medieval fantasy quest tales and authors like Terry Brooks, Anne McCaffrey, and Brandon Sanderson, and those looking for something to read after bingeing the Netflix show Cursed, will get a kick out of Overmyer's action-packed series." — BooklistBook 2 in the Goblets Immortal series. Having killed his lifelong enemy, Aidan Ingledark finds himself in possession of a map to the Questing Goblet, one of the Goblets Immortal that gives the drinker luck beyond measure. Meraude seeks this Goblet to wipe out magic-kind. Aidan and his traveling companion are determined to find it first but they must battle through illusion and doubt. Jinn’s a Sightful seeking the Summoner. She wants to kill her mother, but her foresight ends in darkness. Can she enlist Aidan's help and change her fate? The threat of Meraude and her dominion are imminent in this sequel to The Goblets Immortal. FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePressTrade ReviewPraise for The Goblets Immortal (Book #1 in The Goblets Immortal series): “Overmyer has written a promising series opener with a rich supporting cast of characters. Packed full of adventure and ending with a cliffhanger that leaves readers anxiously awaiting a sequel.” — ALA Booklist “The magic system that Overmyer creates is compelling as well as familiar, so the reader has no issues buying into it the moment it is introduced. This fantasy has a similar flavor to YA, making it a good transition novel for the teen who is ready to begin reading adult fantasy. The book is fast-paced and can be read in a day—perfect for a long airplane ride.” — SciFiMoviePage “The Goblets Immortal is a very interesting and unique fantasy story. Aiden and Slaine are very characters that are worth following, there is cool magic, an evil Mage, and almost no knows what is going on! It is fun and chaotic, and I really enjoyed the read.” — FanFiAddict “I had a blast reading this compelling fantasy with a wonderful character driven plot lead by a sympathetic, but kick ass main character! I highly recommend this book!” — The Haunted Fae “A well-paced, character driven novel that immediately pulled me in and wouldn’t let me put it down.” — Jessica Belmont

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Book SynopsisRichard Rahl and Kahlan Amnell confront an apocalyptic nightmare in this irresistibly tense, utterly terrifying, near-thousand-page return to Terry Goodkind's 26-million-copy bestselling Sword of Truth world. The insatiable hunger of the Golden Goddess... The irresistible power of a Witch's Oath... A fracture in the world of life... An opening in the world of death... Richard Rahl and Kahlan Amnell face the perfect storm. The Children of D'Hara picks up immediately after the conclusion of the Sword of Truth series in one breathtakingly compelling, powerful, blockbuster novel. Previously published in five parts: The Scribbly Man, Hateful Things, Wasteland, Witch's Oath, Into Darkness.Trade ReviewThis book is an omnibus of the late Goodkind's Children of D'Hara series [...] and fans will appreciate the familiarity of his storytelling style * Booklist *Goodkind has a vast, intriguing creative vision... The worldbuilding is complex and intricate... An epic-length fantasy set in a sprawling world of magic and menace' * Foreword Magazine *An original, landmark collection that is extraordinarily ambitious, complex, and entertaining * Midwest Book Review *There's plenty of mystery, a couple of untruths, and just a few twists and turns that literally leave you both excited and really shocked... A seamless and entertaining ride' * Nerds That Geek *The late Terry Goodkind's unique style and incredible worldbuilding are delivered with his usual skill, and he plumbs the human psyche for incredible and complex tales. He was not afraid to pit his characters against their greatest fears, and this book is no exception. Yet, even as the characters suffer, they rise above it and find greatness, offering a grand display of the triumph of the human spirit * San Francisco Book Review *

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Book SynopsisFor 312 years the rotstorm has blighted the ruins of the Ferron Empire. Born of an unholy war between gods themselves, it scours the land with acid mists and deadly lightning, spawning twisted monstrosities from its nightmarish depths. On the Stormwall, the men and women of the Stormguard maintain their vigil — eyes sharp, blades sharper — defending the Undal Protectorate from the worst of the rotstorm’s corruption. But behind the stormfront, something is stirring, kindling the embers of an ancient conflict and a plan to kill a god. Will Stormguard steel be enough to meet the coming tempest? *** As the children of the storm carve a bloody swathe across the Northern Marches, the whitestaffs — the Protectorate’s healers and sages — have fled, retreating to their island citadel of Riven. Their withdrawal has weakened the realm, and worse, their absence is a death sentence for Floré’s daughter Marta. Skein-sick, Marta wastes away from the terrible magic she has inherited from her father and only the whitestaffs have the knowledge that might save her. When Flore is dispatched to reason with the whitestaffs, to bring them back into the fold, she seizes the chance. Her mission could save both the protectorate and her child. But on the island of Iskander, caged and chained, she will only discover the worst betrayal.Trade Review'Those who enjoy an action-crammed page-turner will be satisfied. . . a solid fantasy’ * British Fantasy Society *PRAISE FOR THE GAUNTLET AND THE FIST BENEATH: 'Excellent, vivid worldbuilding... A gripping story with cinematic detail' British Fantasy Society. 'An exciting and action-packed fantasy novel... Some disturbing and interesting ideas give the book a twist, but it also feels comfortably like a fantasy novel that any fan of the genre can enjoy' SF Book Review. 'Green's worldbuilding is unique and creative... This book appeals to both enthusiasts of high fantasy as well as the more everyday fantasy reader. Epic action, deep world-building, and colourful characters make for a magical debut, forged in compelling inspirations... There's plenty more magic to come' The Publishing Planet. 'The unrelentingly dark tone enables Green to maintain a high level of suspense throughout. Fans of Anthony Ryan will welcome this and its sequels' * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisFor 312 years the rotstorm has blighted the ruins of the Ferron Empire. Born of an unholy war between gods themselves, it scours the land with acid mists and deadly lightning, spawning twisted monstrosities from its nightmarish depths. On the Stormwall, the men and women of the Stormguard maintain their vigil — eyes sharp, blades sharper — defending the Undal Protectorate from the worst of the rotstorm’s corruption. But behind the storm front, something is stirring, kindling the embers of an ancient conflict and a plan to kill a god. Will Stormguard steel be enough to meet the coming tempest? --- Floré returns to the Undal Protectorate to find it blighted by the deadly ice and bitter winds of a Claw Winter. Her people are dying, and she is sworn to save them... but she can think only of her daughter Marta, slowly succumbing to her skein-sickness, trapped somewhere in the far, far north. Now Tullen One-Eye – the man they call the ‘Deathless’ – has been freed and roams the land once more. There are rumours that the great god-wolf Lothal hunts again. And, deep in Orubor’s Wood, the god-bear Anshuka stirs from her slumber... Floré must raise her gauntlet one final time if she is to save her daughter and her people. But will steel alone be enough to take down the gods?Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE GAUNTLET AND THE FIST BENEATH: 'Excellent, vivid worldbuilding... A gripping story with cinematic detail' British Fantasy Society. 'An exciting and action-packed fantasy novel... Some disturbing and interesting ideas give the book a twist, but it also feels comfortably like a fantasy novel that any fan of the genre can enjoy' SF Book Review. 'Green's worldbuilding is unique and creative... This book appeals to both enthusiasts of high fantasy as well as the more everyday fantasy reader. Epic action, deep world-building, and colourful characters make for a magical debut, forged in compelling inspirations... There's plenty more magic to come' The Publishing Planet. 'The unrelentingly dark tone enables Green to maintain a high level of suspense throughout. Fans of Anthony Ryan will welcome this and its sequels' * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisBOOK TWO OF THE ILLBORN SAGA How does the opportunity ever arise for one person to alter the destiny of a world? As the nations of Angall move closer to a Holy War, the four Illborn are to face momentous challenges, while seeking answers about who they are and what their growing powers mean. After Arion and Allana are drawn to opposing sides in the coming conflict, their mutual obsession threatens to bring ruin to them both. In Arlais, Leanna finds herself a target of both the Holy Church and of the killers who are closing in on her. And in Karn, Corin must respond to a deadly new peril, whilst coping with the devastating aftermath of the attack on his wife. How will the choices and actions of the four shape each of their destinies? Only this much is certain; the mysteries of the Gate and of their dreams still await them, and there will be no peace for the Illborn. Aiduel’s Sin is the thrilling and emotive second instalment of The Illborn Saga, the acclaimed epic fantasy series by Daniel T. Jackson.

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Book SynopsisGods have fallen. A queen is rising.And the world will never be the same.The throne of the Kethran Empire lies empty, its ruler now a god bringing darkness and chaos to the world. The line between the divine and mortal realms is blurring. The battlefield is set and a final, devastating war is on the horizon.Casia Greythorne is ready to take her place on the throne, to unite the empire and stand against the gods themselves. But to claim her crown - to save her world and the people she loves - she must confront her past and finally discover the answers hidden within it.Even though it may destroy her hope of a future.

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Book Synopsis'Like Stephen King, . . . Armstrong not only writes interesting page-turners, she has also achieved that unlikely goal, what all writers strive for: a genre of her own. . . . This is not The Call of the Wild; it's Nora Roberts meets "The Sopranos" by way of Henry David Thoreau.' - The Walrus'Kelley Armstrong must have decided one day to throw every genre she could imagine -- mystery, horror, supernatural thriller, romance and chick lit -- into her writerly cauldron. What she conjured up is the hilariously hip Women of the Otherworld series.' - Calgary Herald13. The breath-taking, explosive finale to the Women of the Otherworld series War is coming to the Otherworld. A sinister cult known as The Supernatural Liberation Movement is hell-bent on exposing the truth about supernaturals to the rest of the world. Their violent, ruthless plan has put everyone at risk: from werewolves to vampires, from witches to half-demons. Savannah Levine - fiery and unpredictable - stands at the heart of the maelstrom. There is a new, dark magic inside her, granting her the power to summon spells of terrifying strength. But whether this magic is a gift or a curse, no one knows. On the eve of battle, all the major players must come together in a last, desperate fight for survival - Elena and Clay; Adam and Savannah; Paige and Lucas; Jeremy and Jaime; Hope, Eve and more... They are fighting for their lives. They are fighting for their loved ones. They are fighting for the Otherworld.The final novel in the bestselling Women of the Otherworld series.Books by Kelley Armstrong:Women of the Otherworld seriesBittenStolenDime Store MagicIndustrial MagicHauntedBrokenNo Humans InvolvedPersonal DemonLiving with the DeadFrost BittenWalking the WitchSpellboundThirteenNadia StaffordExit StrategyMade to be BrokenWild JusticeDarkest PowersThe SummoningThe AwakeningThe ReckoningOtherworld TalesMen of the OtherworldTales of the OtherworldOtherworld NightsOtherworld SecretsOtherworld ChillsDarkness RisingThe GatheringThe CallingThe RisingCainsvilleOmensVisionsDeceptionsBetrayalsRitualsTrade ReviewArmstrong's prose has a punchy, easy flow. -- THE GLOBE AND MAILSexy, smart, and action packed! -- Richelle Mead, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of the VAMPIRE ACADEMY seriesThere is never a slow moment...or a false line in Armstrong's writing. -- Charlaine Harris, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of DEAD AND GONE and other books in the SOOKIE STACKHOUSE series

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Book Synopsis'There's a mordant wit to the workings of Parker's mind' - Time OutParker's acerbic wit and knowledge of human nature are a delight to read as he explores the way conflict is guided, in equal measure, by the brilliance and unerring foolishness of humanity . . . . Thoroughly engaging.' - RT Books ReviewsA soldier with a gift for archery. A woman who kills without care. Two brothers, both unbeatable generals, now fighting for opposing armies. No one in the vast and once glorious United Empire remains untouched by the rift between East and West, and the war has been fought for as long as anyone can remember. Some still survive who know how it was started, but no one knows how it will end. Except, perhaps, the Two of Swords.The second volume of a sweeping and ingeniously plotted epic fantasy from the World Fantasy Award-winning author K. J. Parker and his most ambitious work to date. This is a story of a war on a grand scale, told through the eyes of soldiers, politicians, victims and heroes.Books by K.J. Parker:Fencer TrilogyThe Colours in the SteelThe Belly of the BowThe Proof HouseScavenger TrilogyShadowPatternMemoryEngineer TrilogyDevices and DesiresEvil for EvilThe EscapementSaloninusBlue and GoldThe Devil You KnowTwo of SwordsThe Two of Swords: Part 1The Two of Swords: Part 2The Two of Swords: Part 3NovelsThe CompanyThe Folding KnifeThe HammerSharpsSavagesSixteen Ways to Defend a Walled CityMy Beautiful LifeTrade ReviewOne of fantasy's premier voices -- SFXAssassins, emperors, generals, rogues, farmboys-turned-hero - all the trappings of epic fantasy . . . [and] all the complexity you could ever desire -- PORNOKITSCHSkilful plotting and rich scene-setting -- GUARDIAN on THE COMPANYAn intriguing tale of magic, manipulation and revenge . . . An action-packed adventure -- STARBURST on the Fencer trilogy

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Book Synopsis'Complex and engrossing; fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie should particularly take note' - Publisher's Weekly'A truly epic read full of intrigue and betrayal anchored in wonderful characters' - John Gwynne, author of MALICEEVERY CROWN IS TARNISHED BY THE BLOOD OF AMBITION.In a divided kingdom, some will do anything to seize the crown.A BASTARD LORD, rising up against his tyrant cousin, sheds more blood than he bargained for.A ROYAL CHILD, believed dead, sets his eyes on regaining his father's stolen throne.A DUKE'S WIDOW, defending her daughter, defies the ambitious lord who'd control them both.And TWO BROTHERS, divided by ambition, will learn the true meaning of treachery.All of this will come to pass, and nothing will remain as it once was. Royal houses will fall, empires will be reborn, and those who seek the Falcon Throne will pay for it in blood.Nobody is innocent. Every crown is tarnished. Welcome to the start of a major new epic fantasy series from the million-copy bestselling Karen Miller.Books by Karen Miller:Kingmaker, Kingbreaker SeriesThe Innocent MageThe Awakened MageA Blight of MagesGodspeakerEmpress of MijakThe Riven KingdomThe Hammer of GodFisherman's ChildrenThe Prodigal MageThe Reluctant MageTarnished CrownThe Falcon ThronePrince of GlassTrade ReviewA truly epic read full of intrigue and betrayal anchored in wonderful characters - some I loved and some I loathed, but all I wanted to know more about. Whether it's combat, politics or human interaction Karen Miller is on the money. Loved it. -- John Gwynne on THE FALCON THRONEWell-constructed fantasy.... This is a dark fantasy that should appeal to fans of Game of Thrones. -- RT BOOK REVIEWS on THE FALCON THRONEMammoth first instalment packed with political intrigue and widescreen action. -- BARNES & NOBLE book blog on THE FALCON THRONEBlood, dirt and backstabbing . . . impressively elaborate and detailed . . . this dark world will draw you in * SCIFINOW *Complex and engrossing; fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie should particularly take note * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *A truly epic read full of intrigue and betrayal anchored in wonderful characters * John Gwynne, author of MALICE *It will entrap you and hold you captive, you will look up from its pages to discover you have lost hours * APN NETWORK *A writer who seems to set the rule for the genre * WATERSTONE'S BOOKS QUARTERLY *The sheer scope and genius of this series dazzles... stylistically brilliant * SPECULATING ON SPECFIC *Miller is clearly a very talented writer: her characterisation is a masterclass in nuance and sensitivity, and she has a visceral way with action * SFX *Top-notch fantasy . . . a masterclass writer * SFFWORLD *Excellent writing, amazing characters, intricate woven plotlines, and lots and lots of blood, most of that unfortunately spurting from the wrong people. No elves or dragons, but some of the most in-depth world-building I've ever read, and the heroes (and anti-heroes) could shake themselves off the page. This book drew me in with the opening sentence and held me until the end . . . I remain breathless from the read. * Library Thing *Fans of George R.R. Martin, Robert Jordan and other such writers of epic fantasy will find much to like here . . . a compelling read * READING LARK *Miller's numerous fans will definitely stay for the long haul * Sunday Canberra Times *A major new epic fantasy begins * Queensland Times *

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Book SynopsisTyranny is in the air in the city of Finer Bay, and Professor Wendowleen Cripcot would like to be left alone, thank you very much. The memories of the last one hundred years are quite enough to be getting on with, if only these young upstarts from the government body, The Finery, would stop trying to control her every move. With the eyes of a dictator upon her, there are not many places to hide...but Wendowleen has never been one to back down from a fight (just ask her pet wolf), and insurrection is brewing underground.Trade Review"The elderly heroine and her wolf make a refreshing change in this whimsical, gently satirical fantasy debut about how easily a police state might evolve." - Lisa Tuttle, The Guardian; "With wry humour and vicious imagination, Grosvenor's debut compels us not to allow her nightmarish fantasy of a totalitarian police state to become reality." - Joe Bedford, Author of 'A Bad Decade for Good People', Parthian Books

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Book SynopsisKing of the Rising is the searing conclusion to an unflinching and powerful Caribbean-inspired fantasy series about colonialism, resilience, and defiance. A revolution has swept through the islands of Hans Lollik and former slave Loren Jannik has been chosen to lead the survivors in a bid to free the islands forever.But the rebels are running out of food, weapons, and options. And as the Fjern inch closer to reclaiming Hans Lollik with every battle, Loren is faced with a choice that could shift the course of the revolution in their favor -- or doom it to failure.Praise for Islands of Blood and Storm:'A powerful look at colonialism, oppression, and rebellion, and all that it can cost the individuals involved.' —Library Journal (starred review)'The book's absorbing setting, captivating lead, and relevant themes of race and class complement each other with alternating delicacy and savage

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Book SynopsisPower always wins.Imagine Camelot but in Gotham: a city where Arthurian knights are the celebrities of the day, riding on motorbikes instead of horses and competing in televised fights for fame and money.'Arthurian legend meets urban fantasy in a brilliant, bloody wild ride' Jay Kristoff, Sunday Times bestselling author of Aurora BurningImagine a city where a young, magic-touched bastard astonishes everyone by becoming king - albeit with extreme reluctance - and a girl with a secret past trains to become a knight for the sole purpose of vengeance.The boldest, smartest, most adventurous fantasy I've read in ages' Krystal Sutherland, author of Our Chemical HeartsImagine a city where magic is illegal but everywhere, in its underground bars, its back-alley soothsayers - and in the people who have to hide what they are for fear of being tattooed and persecuted.Imagine a city where electricity is money, power the only game worth playing, and violence the most fervently worshipped religion.'King Arthur as you've never seen him before. The coolest thing you'll read this year' Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange TreeIn this dark, chaotic, alluring place, any dream can come true if you want it hard enough - and if you are prepared to do some very, very bad things to get it . . .Trade ReviewThis is an outstandingly well-crafted and absorbing urban/epic/alt-reality/mythic fantasy read * JULIET MCKENNA, author of the No.1 bestselling The Green Man's Heir *Arthurian legend meets urban fantasy in a brilliant, bloody wild ride * JAY KRISTOFF, No.1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author *King Arthur as you've never seen him before. Eve doesn't just capture lightning, but commands it, in a riveting tragedy of blood and desire. A masterwork of urban fantasy - and the coolest thing you'll read this year * SAMANTHA SHANNON, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange Tree *The screaming neon of Bladerunner meets the medieval steel of Arthurian legend in a world that's dizzying in scope and imagination. The boldest, smartest, most adventurous fantasy I've read in ages - and it's really f**ing fun * KRYSTAL SUTHERLAND, author of Our Chemical Hearts [movie out this year!] *This rocks! * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC *Prepare for a politically charged, addictive read * THE FANTASY HIVE *Blackheart Knights takes these familiar stories and makes them into something that is new and inventive - a gritty, grimdark take on a futuristic London. Well-written, compelling and packaged in a way that keeps the reader guessing. Think of this as an old-school thrash metal gig like Slayer or Metallica at their heyday - loud, fast, fun and satisfying as f*** * GRIMDARK MAGAZINE *Fun, gritty and imaginative twist on an Arthurian legend, it's an urban fantasy retelling where knights ride bikes rather than horses and compete in gruesome fights in an attempt to win money and fame. I haven't read anything like Blackheart Knights previously and I don't think I ever will again, it's a very unique contemporary take on a well-loved tale * LIBRARY LOOTER *This book is AMAZING! Honestly, everyone needs to read this. It blends the Arthurian legend we all know and love with an intricate and amazingly built urban fantasy world, and I completely devoured it. This has easily made its way onto my favourite books of the year! * CROOKS BOOKS *This book was a brilliant read, and I'd recommend it to people who are interested in slow-paced, character-focused fantasy with a lot of grittiness. I also loved how there's a lot of casual queerness in this book. It's always great to see this kind of casual representation. Now to wait not-so-patiently for the next one . . . * LUMINOSITY LIBRARY *I was sucked into this world of knights and magic. I loved the way the politics of the world was introduced and how Art's history fed into Red's journey. * CURIOSITY KILLED THE BOOKWORM *Book of the Month at READS RAINBOW * READS RAINBOW *A powerful and moving urban fantasy that I found myself completely immersed in * MUSE’S BOOK JOURNAL *Eve has created a rounded political fantasy novel that has all the twists and turns you would expect from a Le Carré novel. The bonus is that you also get cool fights, cool bikes, and cool leathers * SF Book Reviews *A vibrantly reimagined urban fantasy * PAR SEC MAGAZINE *The concept already had me desperate to get my hands on a copy, but the execution was so immaculate that I know I'll be reading Blackheart Knights over and over again. A fresh and fascinating retelling that manages to make Arthurian myth modern, bloody, and pretty darn sexy * Nia’s Book Fort *The most I've enjoyed an Arthurian retelling in a long time. I never felt like I knew exactly where we were going, which meant I stayed hooked * A Medievalist Reads *There's a wealth of imagination on show here * Cheryl Morgan, Salon Futura *A brilliant world not quite like anything I've ever seen before. It's strange, and delightfully different, and it's so beautifully cohesive. I loved every moment of it. It's unquestionably one of the best books of the year * Every Book a Doorway *

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Book Synopsis'Brilliant' – V. E. Schwab, Sunday Times bestselling author of A Darker Shade of MagicFor one apprentice assassin, the clock is ticking . . .Pyrre Lakatur doesn’t like the description skullsworn. It doesn’t capture the beauty of her devotion to Ananshael, God of Death. And she’s not an assassin, but a priestess. Or she will be, if she can pass her final trial. The problem isn’t killing, as Pyrre has spent her life training for this. The problem is love. To pass the trial, she will have fourteen days to kill seven people detailed in an ancient song, including one true love, ‘who will not come again’. However, Pyrre has never been in love, time is short, and if she fails she’ll be given to her god. Pyrre’s not afraid to die, but she hates to fail. So a month before the trial begins, she returns to the violent city of her birth, where she once offered an abusive father to the god. Here Pyrre hopes to find love – and end it with the edge of her knife.'Pleasantly grim and emotionally complex' – Kirkus Reviews'Lush, evocative descriptions . . . remarkably intimate' – Publishers WeeklySkullsworn is a thrilling standalone set in the world of the Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne by Brian Staveley.Trade ReviewBrilliant -- V. E. SchwabPleasantly grim and emotionally complex . . . an accessible entree for new readers, who will undoubtedly go on to consume the rest of the series -- Kirkus ReviewsLush, evocative descriptions sharpen the setting . . . Visceral action scenes and memorable characters bring this tale to life. Despite the outsize aspects of this adventure, it still feels remarkably intimate -- Publishers WeeklyBrian Staveley deftly weaves a fast-paced and compelling tale filled with excellent characterization, vivid world-building, and high personal stakes, making this one an outstanding novel on every level -- BibliosanctumSkullsworn is a fantastic standalone book with a very satisfying conclusion -- TheBookBagSkullsworn displays Staveley’s signature bleak style, characters that are teeming with conflict and inner turmoil and exciting small and large-scale fight scenes that should keep every fan of the genre entertained . . . it makes me look forward to my next foray into this exciting universe and makes it easy to give this one a very high recommendation -- FantasyFactionThis is a warm, funny, character focused novel which is also darkly charming, bloody, and lethal. It was very, very hard to put down, and had an emotional punch to match its high adrenaline moments. If you enjoyed the Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne, this is a more than worthy successor text – and if you’ve never read those, you can pick this up, and know you’re in for a fantastic (if sometimes violent) journey -- SF&FReviewsHighly recommend, especially for fans of female characters that like to kick ass -- SpeculativeHeraldA highly engrossing fantasy world -- FantasyBookReviewBrian Staveley is a must-read author -- TheBookGeekKept me mesmerized from start to finish . . . Unique, bold, and exciting, Skullsworn is not to be missed -- Qwillery

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Book SynopsisThe last and most amazing volume in the legendary Belgariad series: the story of the queen of truth, love, rage and destiny, Polgara the Sorceress.The queen of truth, love, rage and destiny reveals all.Polgara the Sorceress is the crowning achievement of the great fantasy epic which began with The Belgariad and continued with The Malloreon. Once again David and Leigh Eddings display the epic imagination, humour, and storytelling power which have made this series the most popular fantasy of modern times. In the story of Polgara, a beautiful woman whose constancy and inner power have been the foundation of all the luck and love that have saved the world, the full truth of The Belgariad is revealed.Trade Review'I wished Polgara the Sorceress was longer . . . the characters are vivid and genuinely likeable, and there's an easy lilt to the prose which makes reading it pure pleasure. It's a wonderful book' SFX ‘My ideal summer read… Having enjoyed the entire ten-book serial, I was delighted to be able to read this latest addition as it not only provides fantastic escapism in itself, but, being a prequel, will make my re-reading of the other books all the more fascinating.’The Irish Times ‘All the verve and pace we’ve come to expect.’The Dark Side ‘Offers an absorbing storyline and some memorable characters as, once again, the authors touch all the right fantasy bases, with warring gods, political intrigues, supernatural creatures and appealingly human magicians involved in a titanic war over the course of seven millennia. Eddings fans will no doubt snatch this novel off the shelves while readers new to the authors’ world won’t find a more appropriate place to begin exploring it.’Publishers Weekly ‘There’s no denying the Eddingses’ offerings do entertain. This novel is for fantasy fans fed up with more fusty fare, or for anyone who likes mischief and merriment.’West Australian

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Book SynopsisThe first in the Echoes of the Fall series, The Tiger and the Wolf is an epic fantasy novel by Adrian Tchaikovsky, winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award and British Fantasy Award for Best Novel.‘One of the most interesting and accomplished writers in speculative fiction’ – Christopher PaoliniIn the bleak northern crown of the world, war is coming . . .Maniye’s father is the Wolf clan’s chieftain, but she’s an outcast. Her mother was queen of the Tiger and these tribes have been enemies for generations. Maniye also hides a deadly secret. All can shift into their clan’s animal form, but Maniye can take on tiger and wolf shapes. She refuses to disown half her soul so escapes, rescuing a prisoner of the Wolf clan in the process. The killer Broken Axe is set on their trail to drag them back for retribution.The Wolf chieftain plots to rule the north, and controlling his daughter is crucial to his schemes. However, other tribes also prepare for strife. Strangers from the far south appear too, seeking allies in their own conflict. It’s a season for omens as priests foresee danger and a darkness falling across the land. Some say a great war is coming, overshadowing even Wolf ambitions. A time of testing and broken laws is near – but what spark will set the world ablaze?Continue this sweeping coming-of-age fantasy with The Bear and the Serpent.Trade ReviewIt's addictively brilliant! The protagonist is vivid and sympathetic – and I love both the story and the world Adrian has created -- John GwynneA classically brilliant fantasy writer, a pusher of boundaries, a great storyteller -- Paul CornellA brilliantly conceived and executed shape-changer Bronze Age saga featuring a heartbreaking heroine . . . Readers will be captivated by the well-realized characters, splendid action, and a satisfying conclusion that promises more wonders to come -- Publishers Weekly, starred reviewThis is a satisfying read, a story you can really lose yourself in -- SFXOne of the most interesting and accomplished writers in speculative fiction -- Christopher Paolini

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