Publication Day (that’s today!) brings us a tidal wave- or modest-sized pile, really- of books inhabiting a plethora of genres. With the advent of this month’s publication day and the recent- perhaps lesser-known but undeniably important- Tolkien Reading Day, we thought we’d shed some light on some fantastical tales from our authors, from the whimsical and weird to the epic and magical!
Jonathan Carr- “The Godslayer”
When Dante Adler finds himself waylaid by a gigantic, unknown assailant, he has no idea quite how much his life is about to change. After finding out that the enormous foe is in fact Herakles, Dante’s memories of his past lives come flooding back to him, and he realises that he is the Godslayer. If he doesn’t pick up the gloves once again and get to slaying, then the conflict will become widespread. First, though, Dante must rescue his wife from the clutches of the Dark Gods that stand against him.
Jonathan Carr’s “The Godslayer” is a perfect read for any lover of Greek mythology; Neil Gaiman fans rejoice! If you’re a fan of stories that depict a lone hero facing the eye of the storm all by himself, then this is absolutely for you!
Check it out here.
Devon Seaton- “Arcanum”
In this epic tale of the mysterious fantasy realm of Ilvithiir, a portal has opened, and the Thalenarian army, with its horde of weaponised monsters have been unleashed upon the shattered elven ranks. Ara’s sister, the new queen of the wood elves, sends her forth as an emissary to negotiate on her behalf. Meanwhile, The University of Arcanum is preparing for war. Can Ara and Inquistor Alikain, both freshly arrived from the front, equip them with the knowledge and training they need?
“Arcanum” is an ideal read for those hungry for grand fantasy worldbuilding; factions, races, civilisations, formidable, twisted, evil antagonists, the whole nine yards. So, for the Tolkienites, George R. R. Martinites (that one doesn’t quite roll of the tongue) and the Ursula K. Le Guin-ites (really pushing it with that one), make sure you grab a copy!
Check it out here.
Angela and David Warner- “The Liver Bear Saga”
After being pulled from an ice-fishing hole, Popsicle has no memory of her past life. But when people start to discuss Christmas, everyone is surprised to find that Popsicle turns into an ice bear upon any mention of the day itself. Is this connected to the liver-shaped pendant around her neck? Is it connected to the vampiric attacks in a nearby town? What do the Royal Family and Navy have to do with this?
Now there’s a wild blurb for you, if ever there was one. Fantasy is not all broadswords, orcs and fire-breathing winged serpents; sometimes it inhabits the realm of the weird and whimsical. Angela and David Warner’s “The Liver Bear Saga” is perfect for anyone who prefers the peculiar, idiosyncratic side of fantasy writing.
Check it out here.
Melissa Nourse- “Under a Blood Red Moon”
Young William Shakespeare is pleased to leave his father’s glove-making workshop for a promising new position at a grand mansion, but instead of good fortune, William finds himself transported to the strange world of Middlemont where nature is ruled by magic and the pull of two large moons. Will quickly discovers that if he is ever to return to the arms of his beloved Agnes, he must pay his way with a portion of rare medicine made from a powdered blue rose.
Sometimes fantasy cross-pollinates with other genres; horror, detective stories, comedy, you name it, but author Melissa Nourse writes what is known as “fantastical historical fiction”. Employing beloved literature icon William Shakespeare as her protagonist, Nourse has crafted a whimsical and fascinating tale.
Check it out here.
Amy Watson- “The Hooters”
After Benjamin’s mother passes away, he and his father lock themselves away from the world, unable to cope with the loss. One day, they are visited by a beautiful owl with strangely familiar eyes. Believing the owl holds her soul, the Hooters begin to live a nocturnal life so they can be a family once more. Meanwhile, Samuel Collins has just moved to Petunia Grove and is enjoying the company of his new friends. But, he’s becoming gradually more intrigued by the silent house on his street. On one fateful night, Sam finally sees his reclusive neighbours, and the secrets they keep.
Blending fantasy and mystery, Amy Watson has crafted a short but thrilling book that, whilst written for older children, has something for everyone in its pages.
Check it out here.
