Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The first book in the McIntire series, Atonement by Winter Austin, was amazing! Right from the first few pages, I was hooked. Her characters are relatable and strong, the story line was powerful. Trouble on more than one front, but not enough to be unrealistic. I was caught up the entire time and finished the book in one day, not able to put it down. Looking forward to picking up the next!
The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed Wandering Isles! The main characters had their own series in the Crown of Stones. I haven’t read that one, and this one really does well standing alone. I wish I would have anyway, but Schneider does an amazing job of filling in the gaps and history from the previous series without it taking away from the current one. I really did love that.
I say that it was a little bit of a slow start, which it was and it wasn’t. While the “trouble” on the island did happen pretty soon into the book, it still felt like it took a bit to get to it. Maybe because of the backstory, I’m not sure I’m explaining that right! Without giving away any spoilers, once I dived a little deeper in the book with Ian and Jarryd, I was well and truly hooked! I love the world building, how amazing and rich the characters are but both different and unique in their own ways. I immediately jumped to Fortune’s Favorite as soon as I finished Wandering Isles and loved that one even more! Can’t wait for more!
Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely LOVED Fortune’s Favorite! Almost immediately the action begins. Amazing world building, captivating and intriguing. I could not put it down. I did not read the previous books from the series (started with Wondering Isles) and you really don’t HAVE to. I wish that I would have, but the background is given so well that this new series really can stand alone. The characters are so incredibly diverse and well written. I truly enjoyed it and hope you do too!
Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The story of Ruarnon and his friends continues in part 2 and I loved it as much as the first! The Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson continues to paint elaborate lands, vivid imagery, and rich character portrayals. I love how in this book the chapters/sections are divided between Ruarnon and their companion’s perspectives on what’s going on, not just getting one side. You can see the growth and the internal struggles that is facing everyone. This one did take me longer to get through just because there was SO much more going on. Even though it’s a part two in the trilogy, and there are still endings to be concluded, I also love that it didn’t end on an intense cliff hanger until part 3.
Overall very well written and easy to lose yourself in the storyline! Cannot wait for the 3rd.
Trapping The Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved Trapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley! The characters are believable and relatable. It’s a super easy read, and hard to put down! I read this in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. There was romance, exploration, danger and excitement but I would say still appropriate even for mature YA readers. Set in prohibition times, Bethany’s overprotective guardians (aunt and uncle) are determined to continue managing their niece (and her inheritance) by arranging a marriage with an unsavory business partner. While vacationing at the hot springs, Bethany unknowingly befriends a woman who is caught up with a gangster working closely with Al Capone. As she catches the eye of another gangster, Bethany is caught between the excitement and newness of this dangerous world and the safety of her new friend, Paul, a detective undercover watching the mobs activities.
Manipulator’s War by Elise Carlson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow there is a LOT that happens with this book! Action packed right from the beginning, there’s not a whole lot I can say that won’t give away too much. The story focuses mainly on Ruarnon and their struggles as a teen when regency is suddenly thrust upon them, but also features detailed supporting characters. Very rich character development. I also liked seeing the similarities between Ruarnon and their opposition… seeing they had very similar struggles but how they handled things were vastly different and therefor the outcomes were as well.
There were definitely some twists and surprises that I didn’t expect, and that always makes for a good read! I just started the second one and am already hooked there as well!
Dahlia will forever be one of my favorite characters from a series as amazing as this! 🙂 We are at the final book and man, what an amazing ending! So much has happened with the other 4 books, and so much was added to this one book alone. Half of her team went to another world to retrieve Creed’s brother, as well as tackle what they can. While they are there, the apocalypse happens on Earth. Dahlia struggles with the dragon in her heart, I will always remember this series, and might even binge listen again! 🙂
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars!!
This series is fantastic….and I highly recommend listening this series from the beginning but it is also bittersweet it is the end…..
Dahlia, a dragon shifter, is trying to pick up the pieces of her life after the fall of Sentinel City…but with missing friends, the veil between the worlds, monsters galore…..will Dahlia finally bring her inner dragon out to help save the world?!?!
There is so much to this story… details that grab you and adventure and action that await! While I am sad this series is over (but will definitely listen to all the books again) I’m excited to see what the author brings out next for my listening pleasure.
This was a wonderful final conclusion in this series. I cried at the end because it was over. The culmination of everything brought it all full circle. There was the perfect amount of action, hope, and heartache. I loved every minute of it. I can see people potentially being disappointed with the ending, but I think it was the best option for all. Definitely give this whole series a listen!
Nite Fire: Exit Strategy is an incredible story! This is the first book that I have read/ listened to by C. L. Schneider. From the first word, I was propelled into an incredible action scene and an apocalypse to boot. The action and suspense are present throughout the book. I did not want to stop listening for a minute!
The audiobook quality and the pacing are amazing. Dahlia’s voice is what I expected and her personality shines through. Some of the other male characters’ voices can be a little annoying but overall I thought the performance was great. During some of the intense scenes, the narrator slows down to really provide the needed impact.
Even though there were previous books that I have not read I was able to understand the story and fell in love the with characters. Dahlia is a strong female character lead. The authors’ descriptions of the places and the creatures gave me clear visuals of the world. I love how Dahlias’ shifting is described. I cannot wait to read/ listen to the rest of the series!
I have enjoyed listening to this series from the start. This is a series that I highly suggest listening from the beginning as they build on one another. It will help you enjoy this series,and the characters The narrator brings the story to life with are different tones they use. They made the characters feel real and had me coming back for more. This is not my first audio but it is one of my favorites. Dahlia finds herself in a race against time and dealing with the dragon inside that is itching to get out. This is a fast paced story that is entertaining and easy to listen to. I highly recommend this audiobook.
5 Stars
Nite Fire: Exit Strategy Audiobook by C.L. Schneider
Nite Fire : Exit Strategy (Audiobook) is the fifth and final book in this series. Im a huge fan of this author and this series has been one of the best I’ve listened/read in a while. Its definitely going on my re-read/listen list. The narrator did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life and keeping my attention throughout the story. I didn’t what to stop listening I had to know what was going to happen next. All good things must come to an end but not if Dahlia can help it. Half her team is missing and she’s in a race against time. Can she find a way to save what remains of this new reality before the Renewal extinguishes all that is left? I loved everything about this story and the ending blew me away. I highly recommend listening to this book to find out what happens next. If you haven’t started this series I highly recommend starting with the first book and reading/listening in order. I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.
5 out of 5 stars
Here we are at book 5, It’s the end! Dahlia is one of my favorite characters. She is part dragon but she is also strong, brave and resilient. The apocalypse has finally come and the poo has hit fan. She is trying to save the world. She has so many things going wrong all at once that would make most people collapse. Old enemies return while she is trying to find her missing team. This author has again written a terrific book. A fantastic finish to the series. There is lots of action from the beginning to pull you in and keep you going all the way to the end of story. The narrator does a fantastic job of pulling you in and getting you into the story. I was listening as I did chores and it made them much more exciting as I kept hearing bits about exploding dragon or monster bits all over. The action was detailed. The drama was plenty. A very powerful ending to one of my favorite fantasy series. I have loved this narrator and the author. A terrific combo that has made this a joy to listen to. I love the fact that the snark is in Dahlia. She gives as good as she gets. Her team does as well. I will miss Dahlia and her snark.
Dahlia has worked so hard to build a safe Sentinel City. That all changed in a blink of an eye. As the blight continues to devour everything in its path. Most of Dahlia’s team have gone missing and she must try to save them. I found Dahlia Nite to be strong and independent, with the desire to save those around her. The author of this story has once again kept me reading. This story had so many feels and the suspense was that of a rollercoaster, you never knew what was going to happen next. Which makes for an interesting and well written novel. It is a fantastic audiobook to listen to while traveling. This is the fifth book in this series. It answered so many questions as the book came to an end. It is important that you read the series in order. As I am so sure you will love it as much as I did.
Review@cinful
•°•☆•°• AUDIO BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •°•☆•°••°
The life Dahlia built in Sentinel City is over, shattered by betrayal and crushed beneath the rubble of a world she’s come to love. But, in the apocalypse, grief is a luxury none can afford. Least of all, the scaled vigilante fighting to protect them.
With half her team MIA, creatures rampaging the streets, and humanity facing destruction, Dahlia struggles to put out more fires than one shapeshifter can handle. All the while, the damaged veil between the worlds is eroding faster. Exits are multiplying, giving the blight free reign to devour all in its path. Relishing in the chaos: the mad scientist bent on seizing Earth for his own devious plan.
In a race against time, Dahlia must find a way to save what remains of this tragic new reality—before the Renewal extinguishes all life on the linked worlds. The dragon inside her is done sitting quietly in the background.
C.L. Schneider is an award-winning author of dark epic and urban fantasy, including The Crown of Stones Trilogy and the Nite Fire Series. Born in a small Kansas town, she resides in New York’s scenic Hudson Valley Region with her husband and two sons. To learn more about the worlds Schneider creates, please visit www.clschneiderauthor.com or connect with her on social media, where she is an active part of the indie author community.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book is quite outside of my normal read, but still an experience nevertheless. It takes on a military sci-fi theme that goes deep into the technology and weapon information but stops short of character development and feels shallow in other areas as well.
Quick chapters and variable level of depth led me to struggle with this book. Good concepts stretched thin in some areas and loss of interest in others. Good concepts with shaking delivery.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is book one in a series and was definitely not what I was expecting. I don’t think I have ever read a sci-fi book with a military theme. It doesn’t take place on Earth. The main character is Rande “Vandal” VanDelle, and he is from a planet called Teutonia. As a contractor working on the tanks, Vandal never intends to see any real action. However, that all changes when he takes a tank out and comes under military fire and has to make life or death decisions. It was a fun book, and even if this isn’t a normal book for you, it might just surprise you.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book was a nice, pleasant surprise and out of my normal comfort zone in my reading, but I was totally intrigued by the cover so I decided to dive right in.
This military sci-fi we get to know Rande “Vandal” VanDelle and he is part of the Chevaliers and works on the MBUs or large tanks. When Vandal decides to take an MBU out and about on patrol….he comes under attack. Battling back and trying to stay alive Vandal has choices to be made…….will Vandal join the continuing fight?
Choices, action, danger and intrigue all wrapped up in this really good story!
Can I add I love the fact the author added a glossary of terms that helped me as well with some of the terminology and that is a plus for me.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really interesting book to read, it’s so out of my comfort zone but I was looking for something a little different to read and the synopsis grabbed my attention so I thought I would give it a go. I think the first thing I have to say how well the book was written, the author had great attention to detail and I actually imagined what I was reading more than I thought I would – this was a pleasant surprise. I’ve read very few science fiction books so I read this a little slower than my usual books and I was very grateful for the glossary with some of the different terms used in the story – that was really helpful for me as a reader and definitely aided my enjoyment a little more.
I think this book would be a huge hit with sci-fi readers – I would definitely recommend it.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a genre that I typically do not read but was captivated by the synopsis and cover art. I am so glad that I read this book as I learned many things that I would not have otherwise known had I not read this book. The way that Scott Warren wrote this book had me captivated from the first couple of chapters. I have not read any books by this author and cannot wait to read more of the books in this series. I will now take more chances on books that are outside of my typical go to reads and this one was wonderful and had I decided to not read it, I would have missed out on a terrific read!
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Chevalier (War Horses Book 1) by Scott Warren
Chevalier is the first book in the War Horses Series and is a action packed Sci-Fi Adventure that I truly enjoyed reading. This is my first book I’ve read by this author and I’m fairly new to Mecha genre. The title and the cover totally fascinated me so I had to see what this was all about and Wow not what I expecting but better than I ever imagined. Get ready to be pulled into one fascinating story that will keep you turning the pages till the end. This is a Military Sci-Fi with Mecha soldiers that is packed with action, adventure, drama and so much more. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Its definitely one of the most entertaining I’ve read in a while. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Scott Warren won a loyal reader in me from this book! I thought from a glance at the cover that I would enjoy it, but I never expected that I would have loved it so much. This Sci-Fi read is full of action in every chapter and the world building is remarkable!
Rande ‘Vandal’ VanDelle is our main character, and he is in for more than he bargained for. He works as a veteran tank mechanic until he’s attacked while he works on a tank. There is nothing scarier than a literal trial by fire as he must learn how to operate and fight these tanks to save his life. Will he be able to pick up enough to scrape by, or will Vandal be overthrown?
The story felt so real with the author’s incredibly detailed depiction of each scene. I am eagerly awaiting the second book in this series as well as picking up others by this author. I highly recommend you pick this up, you won’t be disappointed!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great Adventure! This is where Military and Science Fiction come together. I love how the author gives you lots of feedback so that you are not walking into this blind. I also love all the descriptive and strong story line. This was my first book by this author that I read, but I can’t wait for book two.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rande VanDelle or “Vandal” as he is more commonly known is a mechanic for the upright tanks in the Chevaliers Private Cavalry and has been for eight years and because of this, he is one of the sought out veteran mechanics there is. He manages to keep the old girls running despite the best efforts of the enemy fire they see off, but like every mechanic, he always has a favourite.
One night, after finishing routine maintenance on one of the oldest uprights in the section, Vandal asks to take it out on a routine patrol a bit earlier than planned as he really wants to test it out, after much humming and hawing, they eventually let him. He puts the machine through its paces in a way that not many other mechanics can and manages to go a bit further than planned, but he then picks up a threat message on his sensors.
Not sure what to do, he reports in, but when he hears nothing back, he starts to go in the offensive so that he can try and make his way back to the barracks and help. He is not combat or pilot trained in the slightest, but he still manages to fight his way out of a life threatening situation and just about keeps his head attached in the process, albeit with some sensory overload when the call comes in to evacuate, he is helped into the transport taking them away from the battlefield.
It is when he is called upon by his superior that he thinks it is the end of his career, but instead he is given a choice, he can continue with the maintenance team and love on until his superiors grace runs out, or he can train to be a pilot and hone his skills, which he showed during the confrontation. The problem is he never really wanted to be a pilot, but he agrees to the promotion and trains hard until he is called up.
Will Vandal be able to control his designated upright tank after only a short training period against an enemy who as well as turncoats and rebels, is harbouring an elite fighting force in support of them? This is a sci-fi set in a world which could be the future of our own where old technology is pitted against new in a war of attrition with a reluctant hero at the centre of it all, in this story which will leave you on tenterhooks throughout, as military teams engage in deadly confrontations, as civilians hide away.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Vandal is a tank mechanic with the Chevaliers Private Calvary who finds himself fighting for his own life inside the company’s oldest upright tank. Battling nausea, while also battered and bruised he finds himself teaming up with his fellow Cavaliers to battle against off-world mercenaries.
This book was intense from the first few pages. With a unique and raw writing style the author sets the tone for the action, suspense and adventure contained throughout. The characters were raw and real, especially Vandal who was relatable as a tank mechanic. It was interesting to read and expanded my mind into the world of military machines. A great read!
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mech warrior
As a child one of my favourite games was Mech Warrior. This book bought back memories of playing that game. I enjoyed the action, battles, mystery, intrigue and dashes of humour. I found myself quickly swept up in a unique sci-fi adventure and vested in the characters survival. The characterisation was very well done. Now to wait for book 2.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn’t sure if I would find it interesting as I haven’t read anything like it before so wasn’t sure what to expect but the author didn’t disappoint.
The author took time to explain certain elements and terminology which really helped me as someone new to this genre.
I loved the Sci fi side of it and the thought of these giant upright tanks was definately an image to imagine. The author’s attention to detail is what really made them come alive and feel as if they could really exist.
This story is action packed as you would imagine for a military story but I also love the fact that the story is mainly around Rande (Vandel). How he goes from a guy that works behind the scenes fixing up these huge machines to being thrown into the front line actually controlling one of the machines he loving cares for. Its a story of courage, feelings of uncertainty and facing fears you never expected to have to face.
The story is full of intrigue and Suspense and it definately keeps the reader gripped wanting to know what will happen next.
I really enjoyed my first taste of this genre and I can’t wait to see what the author produces next.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an action packed sci-fi adventure that is unlike any other I have read. As the first in a new series I definitely starts with a bang. I loved Vandal. I thought he was such an interesting and engaging character. He kept me entertained from start to finish and for me carried the story.
I thought the premise of this book was such an interesting one, and not one that I had read anything similar to before. The way it was developed intrigued me and I easily found myself connecting with it. The author created a great pace to the book that fit perfectly with what was happening. After reading this book I am looking forward to see what comes next.
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This authors style of writing is not only thorough, but really gets the reader’s mind into the frame it needs to be in to be engulfed by the nature of this adventure. I absolutely love how the author also included a glossary of terms at the beginning that one can return to if there is any confusion as to what the terms mean. This is by no means my normal cup of tea, however, I felt like the main character specifically was very vulnerable in the way he was portrayed and I absolutely loved that, especially given that it is a male character.
The titles of the chapters, the way that they are broken up into different segments and the descriptiveness are what really held my attention whilst reading this first installment of what will end up being a very different, wonderful, and eye-opening literary adventure. If you’re at all debating whether or not to read this, you can stop the debate and purchase it before the next comes out, so you aren’t huddled in your bed scurrying to devour this series. Well worth your money, time, and mental capacity. Looking forward to Ymir being released!
War Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Rande ‘Vandal’ VanDelle of the Chevaliers Private Calvary has helped maintain Main Battle Upright Tanks, or MBUs, long enough to become known as one of the fleets best maintainers. One night he decides to take one of the oldest MBUs out on a maintenance run. Halfway back he notes an enemy on the horizon. Completely taken back by the sudden attack, he scrambles just to stay alive to get back to base. He’s never used the weapons systems, just maintained them. Thankfully, as a result of his quick thinking, he is able to put his knowledge to use and in doing so, ends up surviving and saving many others’ lives as well. Unfortunately, the other MBU jockeys did not fare well after the attack. As the base finds themselves short jockeys, Vandal is recruited to fast track to become a jockey. The attacks don’t slow down though, and the stakes become even higher. As it all escalates, can he find the balance between cranking wrenches and running an MBU? Can he survive until the next contract?
This is my first time reading this author. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of detail in the writing of the MBUs, the battles that took place, and the world building. I felt like I could see everything playing out in my mind. The characters were well written, and I loved how their relationships were portrayed as more of a family than just friends. The book was quick paced, and I didn’t want to put it down! Definitely, looking forward to reading the next installment.