Kavin-Silverstones Books

I love the characters, world, and story, but the dependence on the memories really kills my excitement a little. It wasn't too bad in the first book but this one relied on it way too much, and it just killed the momentum of the story every time it happened, sometimes multiple times a chapter. Really hope the third book doesn't have that problem.

I don't have enough words to describe how satisfied this book left me

The Trials of Ashmount, the debut of grimdark author John Palladino, was an amazing read, and I don't even like grimdark!

This story follows 5 people that live in various locations across the nation of Cedain. And they are all in crappy situations. Some of their own making, and some they are forced into.

If you are not into blood and gore and wanton violence, you might not like this one, but if you suck it up and read it anyway, I think you will be surprised but what this author pulls off.

An Examination of Different Cultures and Religions Interacting

Going into this book I was expecting something different than what I got out of it. Light Giver by Mike Slade follows a boy who, after his father is badly hurt, finds out he has healing powers. He embarks on a journey to a different country to figure out how to use those powers, and ends up meeting a determined princess who also makes a big discovery about herself. They, along with her bodyguard, leave on a trip to discover the rest of the world, and along the way they encounter different cultures of people, some welcoming and others hostile.

I really loved this book for the way it spoke about differing cultures and belief systems. Seeing people being gentle and curious about other's religions, sometimes even growing to embrace them, was a refreshing experience in today's world.

And the ending of the book set-up a sequel that promises to be full of surprises!